On a very blustery day in our 100 acre woods (Hot Springs, South Dakota), an intimate group gathered at our public library to remember one of the active contributors to our community. It was at noon, lunch was served and close friends shared memories of the woman who had unexpectedly and suddenly died among her flowers and garden that she passionately tended each year.
A memorial service was held earlier, but this gathering was a dedication of a brick laid in the libray patio, and a time to reflect on an artistic life which had many years of influence on the arts in the area.
Stories were shared, both funny and poignant. It was most refreshing and hopeful to hear the strengths and weaknesses of another human being. It was a reminder that we all have our good sides, as well as our dark parts. This person, as most of us, was flawed, but grew and made the most of her gifts. What more can we ask of ourselves? And how much will we accept the totality, the light, as well as the dark, of those who share our lives?
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