Julie was over a decade younger than cousin Chris and me. We really didn't connect much because we didn't live near each other until we all found ourselves back in Lakeview. A lunch invitation turned into a wonderful, hours-long, heartfelt conversation about life, politics, careers, and family. Julie shared the challenges of being widowed, of single motherhood, and of having so many physical challenges. Life was not easy, by any means. The thing I was most impressed by as we talked was that she had such a mature mindset toward her too-short lifespan. She reflected on the satisfaction and pride of her impactful work with children and families. It was important to continue on as long as she could because so many families needed her to go up to bat for them.
People often undervalue the effects they have on others. I learned from Julie that we ought to reflect on the impact our lives have had on others as we near our last days. And since we never know when our last day will be, we ought to reflect now, and regularly!
Julie truly inspired me. We wish we had more time with her.
Peace to the whole family~
Laurie
