Ripple Effects

Well…that sounds deep, doesn’t it??

But appropriate for today.  You see — this morning, I learned that a friend (from many years back) lost her battle with a long-running illness.  A long, hard, valiant battle.  Her life story ending much too soon – leaving behind more family and friends than I could probably even begin to guess, to find their way through the coming days and weeks.

I met her many (many!) years ago – thankful for the friendship given me by her and her family.  But – as happens with many of us – we each went our own path in life as we grew older.  I wondered about her and her family over the years, but quite frankly, was so caught up in my own world, that was as far as it went.

Somehow, a few years ago, we reconnected through Facebook (of course it was Facebook!).  Some back and forth conversations — instant messages — and I think even a phone call or two.  And, I learned about her illness and the battle she and her family were facing.  I learned of the passing of her parents (whom I still have fond memories of!) – and tried to stay up on how things were going in her world through postings, “likes” and “reactions” on Facebook from her or her sister.

I knew things had taken a turn for the worse last week, when her sister reached out to me (through FB again) – and she had been heavy on my heard since that short, electronic conversation.  Until today —

The news crossed my “newsfeed” in the midst of looking at pictures of one of our granddaughter’s birthday outing, and thinking of what a great day we had actually seeing all the grandkiddos yesterday.  I love those days.

A Celebration — A Farewell

Interestingly, there are similarities.

The Celebration is marked with many kind words and sharing of photos, and memories of past years (Not very many…but still some pretty cool memories!)  So much ahead of her — so many, many fun chapters to write (and I know she is up to the task!).

The Farewell is also marked with many kind words, sharing of photos and memories of past years (Memories from years gone by — and some new memories, just recently made. Also pretty cool, and heartwarming).

It saddens me to know that a loving, giving, talented woman is leaving so many chapters unwritten.  But – looking at the comments shared by those who have known her best – she is leaving behind a legacy of love, and I suppose you could say a host of “nom de plumes” to finish the story for her.

I do love a good story……

Be sure to tell those closest to you just how much you appreciate and love them.  They’re in your life for a reason — and you in theirs.  Make sure they know that.

Pass It On —