DEAR READERS,
I lost a very special friend a few months ago. She meant sooooo much to me. We met through Reach Out Magazine, so I feel it only fair that I dedicate Reach Out Magazine in her name, not just this issue, but ALL future issues. Following is an open letter to my friend Amy and reflection on our friendship.
Dear Amy,
I find it so incredibly hard to believe you're gone...Not a day goes buy that I don't think of you. I can almost feel your presence here with me. I miss you so very much! Amy, I realize we weren't friends a real long time, about 5 years, but it felt like a lifetime. You gave so much of yourself to me and all your friends, and never asked for anything in return. You always put other people's needs above yours and were always there when I needed you, no matter what time, day or night. You accepted me as a friend unconditionally. And though we both had different disabilities, making it hard to understand each others limitations, you always knew what to say to make me feel better when I was having a bad day. I mean just look at our phone conversations, there were some marathon ones. I think 10 hours was our record, but I may be wrong. We could talk about anything under the sun, changing topics repeatedly. And while we may have had different opinions or views on issues, we always respected each other for it. Amy, I can't imagine how hard it must have been for you to face each days challenges, but I know it's not an easy thing. I feel I had an advantage over you though, Amy, since I have lived with my disability all my life and you have only had to for about 7 years. See, I feel it's easier for me to accept my limitations, since I know no differently, but I know you disagree with me. I can't imagine what it must be like to be able bodied one minute, then a paraplegic the next. Your whole world changes in an instant. I don't know that I could have accepted it well. Amy, I love you! While you may not be here with my physically, you will always be here in soul. I know you are in a much safer and peaceful place. I thank the good Lord for bringing you into my life, and wish there were more people like you, the world would be much a nicer place. Good-bye Amy, and may God bless you and protect you.
With Love Always,