Yesterday, I learned of the passing of a secretary/friend I worked with, Donna. I worked with her for four years. She did not report to me but was an integral part of our office team. She was only 64, way too young. When someone passes, you often stop to reflect on your own life. I think this happens with all of us, especially when we are in our sixties.
Reflecting on friends
In reflecting, I think about all the wonderful qualities that person had. Then, I think about what I can do to improve these qualities in myself. It’s funny because the qualities that matter have nothing to do with money, fame or success. The qualities that matter are about kindness, caring and humility.
In remembering Donna, I think about her unbelievable work ethic. Something we don’t always find in the workplace anymore. She was rarely sick and would offer a helping hand whenever one was needed. Donna worked with students with special needs and was meticulous about making sure they received all the services we could provide. Rides to school, speech therapy, occupational therapy and more. Donna detailed the information in a special computer system, so children received the services, and the district would get reimbursed when funds were available.
But there is more, Donna did everything with a smile and a kind heart. There are always stressful times, especially when coordinating taxicab rides for homeless children. Donna remained calm and would follow through to ensure the child made it safely to school or home. She found humor in these stressful moments, and we would all laugh instead of cry.
Maya Angelou and remembering
It is interesting that at this very moment in time, I happened to be reading a Maya Angelou book entitled “Letter to My Daughter“. In chapter 18, entitled Mrs. Coretta Scott King, she discusses this exact subject, death of a friend. I am going to quote her last paragraph of this chapter for you in the blog;
“When I find myself filling with rage over the loss of a beloved, I try as soon as possible to remember that my concerns and questions should be focused on what I learned or what I have yet to learn from my departed love. What legacy was left which can help me in the art of living a good life?”
“Did I learn to be kinder,
Mayo Angelou
To be more patient,
And more generous,
More loving,
More ready to laugh,
And more easy to accept honest tears?
If I accept those legacies of my departed beloved, I am able to say, Thank you to them for their love and Thank You to God for their lives”
Closing
During these Holidays, you may be missing someone. Remember their legacy, and what little piece of them you hold dear in your heart that can make you better person in living a good life.
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