Friday, October 24, 2008
When you stand in front of the mighty Basilica of the Sacred Heart, one cannot help but be impressed and humbled by its strength and sturdiness as it stands in service to the diocese for all of Syracuse. However, it is also the local parish church for the faithful who live nearby in the neighborhood, one of whom was Apolonia whose commitment to her children, her Polish community, her religion, and the Lord was as strong and sturdy as the stone and steel of the Basilica itself.
She was an anchor for many people in her life who depended on her to be a steadfast source of wisdom and guidance, especially her children. She worked most of her life – very hard work – and that served as a silent instructor about the nature of survival and the value of perseverance. But she also had her social circle for fun and enjoyment, especially her group of Polish Pani friends at the Syracuse Polish Home.
When she left this world, Saint Joseph, patron saint of a happy death, must have been smiling down on her because she was able to embrace the angels while under the loving eyes of both of her daughters, who were able to be there to hold her hands as she gently slipped away.
She will be missed by all.
