Jennifer L. Smart

Jennifer L. Birch, affectionately known as Jen Jen, was my partner and friend for many years. I have not written anything like this in a long, so I’m trying. While my memories are fragmented, I still remember how she helped raise my son and loved those grandkids. I have the utmost respect, gratitude, and love for her passion and stubbornness. We had great times together, and it meant so much to me. So much changed, in any case…

 

As stubborn as she is, I thought I would pass on before she did, or we would beat the ailments and sit somewhere having Starbucks, the drink of choice.  Unfortunately, we both were sick. And didn’t want to bother the other. I keep things close to the vest, and for the most part, so do people close to me so I’m sure there were perceptions and misunderstandings about us, but that is not for me to clear up. The only thing I care about is celebrating the memories of Jen Jen and supporting my family, which experienced her love. I got sick, and she didn’t understand how to help me, and then she got ill, and I could do nothing. All of this, for lack of a better way to say it, sucks. I will continue to support her, and she will always be a part of me. I will always hold her in the highest esteem. While even apart, we protected one another. The whole of our conversations were relegated to text; we still checked in—it all just sucks.  I will miss that woman. The luxury of knowing someone is still alive and out there fighting the good fight along with you gives you strength. However, she is gone now, and I won't receive those snarky or corny text messages anymore. 

 

Thank you, with much love, Jennifer L. Smart.