Passing

A friend of mine passed away this morning.  My heart is heavy, but I also feel deep gladness.  She is free of pain, and she is with her Maker.  I can't imagine what that must be like.

She has battled cancer for more years than I know, and yet, every time I saw her she would ask after my husband with regard to his epilepsy.  She would sincerely ask after my kids.  She would smile and chat and hug and generally take the brighter view of life.  She would encourage me.  I do not know what her internal thoughts were nor what her home life was like, but I can tell you, in public life, she shone brightly.  I am grateful.

The biggest tribute I can give to her: in the social world that she and I moved in - a world in which most are not sincere or kind or genuine - she always treated me with respect.  She also dealt with me genuinely.  She always operated in sincere kindness.  I can think of no higher praise.

Kathy, I will miss you.