Carol Halski, sister-in-law

My brother-in-law, Steve Modzelewski, was a favorite member of our family. I remember the day he married my sweet sister, Mary Anne. It was the most glorious day ever! Our son, John Halski, MaryAnne's Godchild, was the ring bearer. The ceremony was so beautiful. The day was so beautiful. The reception was so beautiful. I carry the memory of that day in my heart, and, I hope I never forget it. It was the day that Steve officially became ours. If you've ever read Hunger Games, you are familiar with the characters. Mary is MY Prim. I would definitely volunteer to take her place in the lottery. So, you can imagine how much we loved Steve. My Prim chose HIM. Steve was definitely one of a kind. You never knew what he might be wearing when you saw him. My favorite outfits were the toga-like garments he would wear while painting, or creating something. He was so self confident! He was so secure in just who, and WHAT he was......an artist! A creator! A human being of the highest edition! Steve NEVER spoke ill of anyone.

I really got to know Steve when I had the opportunity to visit these two when they lived in Illinois. Mary had gone into the city, and Steve was left with me to take the train into town to meet up with her. Steve came equipped with his ever present sketch pad, and pencils. I assumed I would just sit quietly near him, and let him work. However, we happened to ride by the Super Collider Site.....I probably am not spelling that right. It seems that there is a place up Illinois way, where a factory of sorts was being built for the super collider. I had no idea what that was, and, still have zero understanding of it. BUT, I spoke up, and asked Steve just what the heck that building site was all about. Well, Steve put down his pencils, and began to teach me about super colliders, and outside art, and all manner of things that just mesmerized me with his unfathomable knowledge.

What I especially learned on that train ride is that our Steve was a TEACHER!! He was amazing!! I had no idea the breadth, and depth, of Steve's teaching talent. Even though I rarely use this expression, he blew me away!! Steve was able to reach right into my soul, and make me see exactly what he was saying. I've been told by my sweet sister that I learn differently from others (learning disability), and Steve was able to penetrate that barrier I have, and make everything so simple! I really hated when the train stopped. I wanted our session to go on and on. I had so many questions to ask. But, we needed to arrive at our destination before Mary thought we missed the train!

From that day, I had been so in awe of my new brother. I couldn't wait to hear him speak again, about ANYTHING. But, mostly, I loved his paintings. Oh, my dear God in heaven! Steve was a genius! His paintings are just off the charts. I recall one huge landscape that was in their bedroom. As a guest, I was given that room while on my visit. That painting changed with every ray of light that penetrated the room. Every shaft of light would reveal something new, and different. I loved the morning light, as it filtered through the blinds. I saw so many fascinating figures, and colors, and images that danced in my brain. The light at dusk brought forth even more intriguing images. What a genius! Who does this? Who can paint so many different meanings, and impressions in one canvas? I tell you who......a magician. Because, when my sweet sister, and her soul-mate were together as a couple, it was pure magic!

And, I am SO grateful that I could be a part of their history. I am SO grateful that I got to experience the Magic of the Modz. Today, I am grateful knowing that Steve is out there in our beloved Universe......he is with Mary constantly, and painting the stars.