There has been a lot of joy in my life, but the one I am going to talk about today is Joy. I met Joy when I was 15. I dated her son for almost 4 years and got to be really close to her. She was such an influence to me. We got really close. She was never judgemental towards me. She was always loving and kind even when I gave her reason to not be. She loved me like a daughter. She taught me a lot of lessons that I think of EVERY SINGLE DAY of my life. She had a huge influence on how I look at things. Well, after Scott and I broke up, Gina and I stayed best friends. That kept me close to Joy. It was a very special relationship. Well, 5 years ago today, Joy died of breast cancer. She knew she had a lump and ignored it. I wonder what life would be like had she got that lump checked out. Sometimes I get mad because I feel that she died senselessly and then I remember how she changed me. She did more in her short life than some do in a lot more years. Every October, I think of her every day. I have a pink breast cancer ribbon bracelet that I wear with her in mind. But every Dec. 7th, I take Gina to lunch to talk about her mom and how important she was to us in similar and different ways. It's a very special tradition we do. This year, her death anniversary landed on Sunday so we went to lunch yesterday. It was enjoyable. We usually laugh a little and cry a little. Yesterday was no different. I miss Joy so much but I know there's a special angel watching over my family and my best friend. Today is the day I remember and celebrate a great person in my life, Joy McLaws!!! I love you.
7 comments:
Thanks for sharing that. I'm glad to have that fresh reminder. The thing you are doing for Gina is amazing. That is something you both will definately take with you.
Well, that made me cry. I did not get to know Joy that well. She was just Gina's mom to me. But, Gina rocks so that says a lot about Joy. What a nice post. It's hard when those who are so much to us pass away.
thanks for the good cry! That was a very special post to me because both my grandmother and step-mother had breast cancer and are still alive today! It made me feel so grateful to have them around. And I'm so sorry about your friend Joy. I think that is wonderful how you celebrate her life.
Mom had a gift to just love us and she never did judge us. She just loved us and accepted us. A beautiful woman. Thank you for sharing the beautiful tribute to my love's amazing mom and truly one of my best friends. Gina is so lucky to have you to remember, mourn, and celebrate with. I'm so glad you are part of our family! I Love you! Jennie
A very heartfelt and sincere Thank You Hopie! Mom loved us all even though we've all given her ample ammo not too :) I'm glad you got to experience that as a part of our family. We love you! (and thanks for lunch and the gift...as always, just perfect).
I remember spending time with Joy - she was a remarkable woman. Thanks for the remembrance.
Joy was a very remarkable woman. She gives me a lot to strive for. I only hope that my children will feel the same about me as I for Joy! Thanks for your tributes in her honor & being there for Gina. Luv You!
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