Monday, May 27, 2013
Helen and I first became acquainted when she was about 26 and I was six! From the first time I met her, I was drawn to Helen like a magnet: she was so sweet and kind, and soft spoken. She cared about and was interested in people, always willing to listen. Helen truly believed in the word of God and faithfully practiced the 10 Commandments. She supported her church, her community, her neighbors and anyone in need. She was always giving of herself. Helen would be the first to volunteer for a needy cause, or to open her wallet to give a donation to help someone in need. She was never judgmental, but rather defended others' shortcomings.
Over the years, Helen gave me support, guidance and an ever deepening friendship. Helen was always there when I was in need. At the death of my mother, she was there to comfort and support me. When my father was ill, it was Helen, Bill, Margie, and Terry too, who stopped in every week to visit my dad and always offered their help; they prayed with me and gave me strength all through his illness and his death. When my husband passed away, Helen was there: she comforted me and when the ambulance took him away, it was Helen who drove me to the hospital and stayed with me to very late at night waiting until his death was officially recorded.
Helen loved life and all people. Her home with Bill and Margie was an oasis on Muhlenbrink road; they welcomed everyone into their home, sharing food, drink, and laughter. There were many times we sat around their dining room table with family at holidays and birthdays, and at other times with neighbors who just gathered to visit. We shared stories and jokes, laughter and love. Helen had a great knack for telling a joke, she had such a unique way of modulating/lilting her voice to fit the character and her punch line delivery was perfect! Her demeanor was always uplifting and radiated happiness. Everyone just enjoyed being with her.
Helen will never be forgotten as her memory runs deep. And there are so many things around me that will always remind me of her:
When I see an oak tree, I will remember Helen's strength and how stoic she always was, never breaking down, always there to give support to others.
When I see the mountains, I will see Helen's spirit rising up in reach of the heavens.
When I see a butterfly, I will remember Helen's beauty and delicateness.
When I see an owl, I will remember Helen, as she was wise and nocturnal. Helen was a very witty person who had a quick and clever saying for everything! We both loved to stay up very late at night, and many times at her home we talked and recalled all the good times we shared over the years. We put puzzles together, laughed over jokes and funny stories, and just enjoyed each other's company.
When I hear a songbird, I will remember Helen as she, too, loved to sing.
When I look upward on a sunny summer day and see a blue sky with fluffy white, cotton-like clouds graciously floating above me, I will imagine Helen in heaven with all her family that have gone before.
Whenever I feel a soft and gentle summer breeze brush my check, I will remember Helen's gentle touch.
When I see a rainbow, I will be reminded of Helen, who brightened my day. Helen was like a rainbow, which comes quickly and silently, and then leaves us too soon.
And like always, Helen will be there to welcome us with open arms when we cross over, to share her glory and happiness. God bless you forever, Helen, and may you rest in peace.
