Because of Her...

Her body was old, but the life she possessed was invigorating.

Even I -the age of six at the time- don't know if I surpassed her.

Her strong faith was the fuel to her endless singing, her love for others, and her warm smile.

She showed me what loving others unconditionally looks like.

I was devastated when the cancer took her.

I dream of her singing sometimes when my mind turns dark.

I sing louder, and love deeper, because of her.

Quiet, sweet, and passionate about her profession,

this woman always cared.

She meant the world to me that year.

She listened, and I listened in return.

When I viewed myself as a lost cause,

she told me I brought joy to her life.

I desperately wonder how she's doing and where she's at.

I believe in myself, and in others, because of her.

A young and beautiful woman full of dreams, hope, and questions,

she opened my eyes to what was out there in the world.

I don't know if she knows it,

but I learned so much about myself while she was around.

The last time I spoke to her was nearly six months ago.

I miss her very much, but I'm thankful for the time I had.

I see life, and the world, in a different light because of her.

Genuinely caring about who she is as a person,

and those who she influences,

she has the power to impact lives.

She doesn't abuse this power.

Her optimism is so refreshing.

She is a true encourager.

I search for the good, and have more hope, in people because of her.

Loving me as one of her own,

I have been so blessed by this woman.

Her openness and transparency mean the world to me.

Unashamed of admitting her shortcomings,

she presses on with a passion to learn, love, and grow.

I could talk to her for hours and not tire of it.

Her passion and faith inspire my own.

I dream of a fuller life, and have a fuller life, because of her.

* * *

( ( In honor of a few -of many- women who have shaped -or are shaping-  who I am today. ) )