21 Comments
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Debbie Tesch's avatar

I’m in tears, listening & feeling all the emotions from your song. Being such a part of your family as your close friend for 6 years during Jr High & High School was a privilege. My heart goes out to your most loved Mom, you & Penny. I love you all three!!! I really admired Robert too and cared about him . My love and prayers continue for you as you continue to grieve and heal. Love you friend, always and forever.

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you Deb, just read your comment and all the others to Mom. We appreciate your love. Mom says, "visit us soon!" ox

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Penelope Hummel's avatar

Debbie, we love you too! Always.

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Caitlin.hanford@gmail.com's avatar

It has to be brutal to lose a sibling! Big hugs to you Elizabeth!

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Caitlin.hanford@gmail.com's avatar

A beautiful song in tribute of Robert! Thanks for sharing.

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Hippiesq's avatar

Beautiful as usual. I particularly liked the photos of you and your brother and sister - he was so cute carrying that briefcase :)

What a lovely send-off.

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you so much Hippiesq! Yeah, the Nerd Children photo from 1969 is pretty hilarious. I still have the Charlie Brown lunchbox.

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Penelope Hummel's avatar

A beautiful tribute in words and music to our unforgettable brother. Thank you, dear sister.

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Eliza Mann's avatar

This is such a loving and beautiful tribute to your brother, Elizabeth. Your essay was very moving, as was the song. I especially loved the images of you and Robert as children. Even though your relationship was complicated, as you said, in the end, it is love that remains. May the God of all comfort give you, peace as you continue to grieve.

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you Eliza, read your message to Mom and she was so touched. And me too. Thanks for your love and support.

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Chris Sand's avatar

Beautiful post, Elizabeth, and very moving. All of it—the story, the song, the video. Sending love and condolences to you and the family. May we all find vistas of clarity and liberation.

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Yes, indeed. Thanks so much Chris, it's good to hear from you.

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Jeanine Hadar's avatar

I am sad to hear about the death of Robert. It’s hard to lose an older sibling because they helped to shape who we are today. In many ways, they were our guarding angels.

I have fond memories of Robert from when we would come to visit you and your parents. Robert was a brilliant and knowledgeable person who also took true interest in our lives. I have learned a lot about Robert from your post.

The song you wrote is beautiful and will help heal the pain.

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Mike Englar's avatar

A lovely tribute and song for Robert. He was an interesting guy. I liked listening to his travel stories. It was our loss not to be in touch with him. Love to you and Penny and Boo

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you Mike! Love you!

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Teresa Berntsen's avatar

What a beautiful tribute. As I said to Betty, words are inadequate at such a time. Nevertheless, I offer a few.

I did not know Robert personally. I feel I knew the essence of his being through Betty, and through your post and song. It is clear he loved, felt, and thought deeply. He had challenges that complicated what is already the complicated stuff called life.

Elizabeth, you said it best, “I think grief is an essential part of the journey of becoming wiser and more complete versions of ourselves.” I wholeheartedly agree. Grief is hard and messy, and I truly believe it serves to keep us in relationship.

Sending my love,

-Teresa

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you, Teresa! ❤️

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Steersman's avatar

👍🙂 Nice remembrance. Ask not for whom the bell tolls ...

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Elisa Jett's avatar

Beautiful account and meaningful song. Thanks for always beautifully sharing yourself. Sending so much love.

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Elizabeth Hummel's avatar

Thank you so much, love you!

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Jordan Hughes's avatar

Lovely, as always, as are you. ❤️

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