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You Are Missed, Jade February 3rd marks one year since you slipped quietly through a portal into another world and left behind those who knew and loved you. Never have I known one who possessed a soul more gentle nor a heart more courageous than yours. Beneath that modest, unassuming cloak, did you know the impact you had upon those whose lives you touched? You told me how fortunate I was for having children who would carry on a part of me long after I was no longer on this Earth. And truly I am fortunate. You voiced a fear you would leave behind nothing but fading footsteps that would vanish faster than the melting snows of spring. We read a speech written by Chief Logan who, after his entire family had been killed by the Whites, lamented, "Who is there to mourn for Logan? Not one." Within that meek and tender soul did you know a world would mourn for you? And not one world but many. Jade, you touched the hearts of many worlds, many people. Your love for your Native American People, the environment and your chosen way of life drew thousands who mourned for you and still come to read your words and find peace and hope mixed with a natural wisdom so profound it reaches deep inside the reader to touch the core of their being. They came from nearly every continent and dozens of countries. They still come and leave a little richer for their visit. Inside that timid, unpretentious nature, did you know you had a phenomenal gift to look into one's soul and draw out the best things hidden inside? You did it for me. You did it for thousands whom you've never met. You'll continue to do it as long as your words are there for them to read. I wish I had your gift with words, my little friend. I wish I could continue your work with the same zeal and vision you possessed. Your wish was for your work on Spirit Voices to continue but I've failed miserably at the task. Perhaps in time it will come but these days I feel like the early White settlers must have felt when they trespassed on Native ground. I feel as if I've disturbed something sacred when I make an attempt. So on this, the first anniversary of your passing, I pray
you've found peace and know how much you are missed and loved. I hope you finally
know how special you are and how blessed we all were for knowing you. The heart does
go on...forever. You'll always be remembered by those who love you. I know you
are somewhere racing the wind on Star's back. Fly free, Little Bird.
A message to Jade's family: |
