The Newest Star

My friend Molly died yesterday and my heart aches with the terrible loss. I grieve for myself, for her family and for everyone who knew her — the earth truly felt like a better place when Molly was here. She didn’t give in to her cancer nor would she have described it as a battle, like some people do — she met her illness head on with bravery, grace and dignity, every single step of the way. In dying, Molly showed me how to live my own life more fully.  She taught me to believe in myself and reach toward my best self, to strive always for goodness.  She so loved this time of year — winter was her favorite season — and she especially treasured the December solstice. We had our first real snow storm of the year yesterday when she left us — I believe it was the universe’s way of welcoming its newest, shining star.