Another Death of a Close Friend...Am I Bad luck???

So this past week one of the sweetest, most charitable person I've had the pleasure of knowing, passed on from her mortal infirmities.  Debbie had pancreatic cancer along with rheumatoid arthritis among other issues that crippled her with pain for the last 40 years.  I know my sweet wife Miriam would have much more details that she would be more adept and elegant in her delivery of the greatness that little Debbie inspired in the lives of so many as she helped her family watch and care for that meek and humble woman.

On of the most amazing things that many saw as stubbornness, was that she never would allow for anyone to define her by her illness.  She would fight to go to the store without assistance, although a great memory for my children is when they took her to the wig shop as the chemotherapy slowly took her physical attributes.  That day she put on a long wig and chased my 10 year old daughter around the store cackling like a witch and they just laughed over the silliness and play.  Debbie didn't go into a depression and ask "why me?"  She  refused to give in and be a victim.  Life was lived on her terms and through the way she chose to see the world.

Debbie also took care of the local birds and ducks.  She would put out bird feeders this time of year to take care of the little finches that frequent our area.  Most notable was the painstakingly lengths she went to find out how to help this mother duck take care of her eggs when they never seemed to survive at our little pond. Well Debbie found out how to care for the mother duckling and feed her when hungry and quench her thirst, even when the mother duck would peck at her.  Finally, the ducklings hatched, which was a first for the pond and they are still there today after several years.

So what can we learn from this woman great life?  Don't let ourselves fall into the trap of feeling like a victim and choose to define ourselves instead of allowing external forces to mold and shape the great masterpiece that is our life.  Second, remember to always look for opportunities to put others first, to influence their day and/or life.  I embarrassed my poor daughter at Disneyland this week because I would begin a conversation with almost everyone I was in line with and it was amazing how many commented that they appreciated someone taking interest in them and showing them some kindness.

I just want to thank all of you readers and wish you the best week ever!  Remember it all starts with incremental improvement in living a principle driven life.  Please forward this to any friends, family or person who could benefit from these stories.

Written By: Timothy J Andrus