He was always my favorite person to see at Thanksgivings and Christmases; back when my parents used to host every year, he and my Aunt Karen would always bring us handmade tree ornaments and postcards from their trips.
They loved us so much, and never missed a “happy birthday” card in the mail, even though they didn’t have much to give.
The last time I saw Uncle David was Thanksgiving of 2019. Just over 4 years ago. It was the last time I heard his raspy, bellowing laugh, and the last time I saw his shiny pirate earring.
When my father told me that he had passed away under hospice, I was frozen. Frozen in shock and in grief, but also a feeling that I wouldn’t be able to place until days later: anger.