Jeannette (Pas130) and I were fortunate to be able to attend the memorial for Sarah this evening and meet her wonderful family; her husband Jon and two daughters Stephanie and Cynthia. Jon was gracious and expressed his gratitude to us for coming and Stephanie and Cynthia did the same, displaying the same grace and strength that was Sarah. Seeing the young pictures of Sarah and Jon and of the girls brought a smile to our faces; most of the pictures were centered around Disney [of course
]. There was a terrific picture of Sarah and Jon at California Grill, with the castle in the background as well as a beautiful family graduation picture, all displaying that sweet Sarah smile.
Jon mentioned that Sarah suggested going to Disney when the girls were young and he was like, really? But off they went, and all it took was that one trip to get him hooked on Disney which led to many more family trips over the years, as well as mother/daughter trips. He said Sarah so enjoyed the DIS and all the friends she made, and we let him know that we also were there to represent her DIS friends that so wished to be there in person, to say themselves how much she touched their lives.
Sarah truly showed us that life should be lived fully everyday - be happy, love much, and be grateful for the small things in life, for those small things are sometimes the greatest gifts of all. It was evident from all the people coming and going tonight how many people were touched by Sarah's life.
Driving to the memorial tonight it really did hit me that no longer would she be with us in the same way. I do believe that people are sent to us at times when we are in the most need. Sarah was that to me, and as we went from PMs to texts to emails, to meeting in person, I came to realize what a truly remarkable woman she was with her courage, spirit, determination, wit, wisdom, and the caring and kindness that was all her. Sarah was always one to ask about others, and truly interested what was happening in your life. Early in our friendship I received a PM from her, worried that something might be wrong as I hadnt been on the DIS lately and her beginning words "I hope you don't think I'm stalking you" made me smile and laugh, and feel special ... that was our thoughtful Sarah.
In remembering Sarah, perhaps we can all take to heart the concept of "pay it forward" that is gathering force today; that would be a wonderful way to celebrate her life.
Thank you dear Jeannette for being with me tonight, as I needed you for support. And to my dear friend Sarah, thank you for your greatest gift of love and friendship. I will treasure it always.