Ode to JOY

Joy, sweet Joy! Like a shooting star, you left as quickly as you arrived but not before swiftly inserting yourself assertively into my life and affecting every part of it.

I always admired your ability to find praise and words of encouragement for everyone around you. You were the ultimate cheerleader, filled with love and opinions on everything and everyone.

You were unapologetic in your pleasures. I mean, who else likes “The View”? The thought of that show makes me cringe. And yet, I smile at the thought of you devouring every word said by these “brilliant women” as you called them.

You were somehow able to make people feel special and cared for while never neglecting your phone for a second. What a talent! Connecting, encouraging, sharing. I will miss your constant posts.

I will miss your hugs, always tight. Your compliments. Not the ones to me, but the ones to everyone else. “Que mujer mas bella.,” “Que hombre mas brillante.” Always such assertiveness and conviction. Always admiration for people’s accomplishments. You were the amplifier. Amplifying all the good.

You were a connector. “Tienes que conocerla. Es la mejor.” So many people brought into my life because you saw something wonderful in them and you vouched for them. My hairdresser, my doctor, my friends. You were the woman who helped all women.

When I think of your life, I think of a beautiful success story. You did it all. You can look back with satisfaction and KNOW that you lived life to the fullest, you loved EVERYONE with all your might, and you mattered so very much to so many people.

The world grieves at your passing but you left us all so much JOY everywhere that each passing day will remind us what we are really here for. To spread joy, light, and wisdom. To love unapologetically. To laugh, to smile, to connect, to live.

I am better because I met you. I am better because I mattered to you. I am better because you loved me. And you always showed me and reminded me just how very much.

“Legacy is not leaving something for people. It’s leaving something in people.”