In Loving Memory

I've had this post saved all week.  I wanted to put a picture on, but that would require scanning one in and I keep forgetting.  I'll work on that, but for now there are just words.

In Loving Memory of Steven and Sharolyn Erickson--November 1, 2002

I can't believe it has been eight years since we said good-bye to our dear friends.  I can't even begin to tell you all that I learned from these two wonderful people.  They were always there with their loving hearts.  They taught us to always think about others, to give to those less fortunate than us, and to work hard. 

I remember one week just before Thanksgiving, Shar came to the house and gave each of us an envelope with twenty dollars inside.  She then told us that it was our money to spend as we pleased, but she hoped we would choose to help her buy turkey and other foods to take to the food bank.  I remember how hard it was for Beth and Devin to use the money to buy something for someone else.  Shar didn't force them to though.  I think she knew that forcing them to do it wouldn't have the same effect as them choosing to do it.  We all ended up using most of our money to help buy food.  I learned that day that you can't force people especially children to do nice things.  They need to choose to do it or it will not help them to be better people in the long run.  I'm grateful for this lesson as I've spent my adult life working with children.  If I ever wonder what to do I just ask myself, "What would Shar have done?" 

This next part is going to sound kind of corny, but just bear with me :0)  Another great thing that I got from Steve and Shar is Jazzmin.  (I told you corny)  I know that I complain a lot about how annoying he is and how I can't stand him, but in all reality I can't look at him and not think of Shar.  He's a reminder.  He also is a great friend....I know all you people out there who hate cats are thinking I'm insane....He's the only being who listens to me without offering opinions or advice about what I should be doing.  There was a time about 18 months ago when I was really struggling.  Everyone had an opinion about what I should have done or what I should be doing.  No one just listened.  Suffice it to say, as sad as this is LOL, I talked to Jazz a lot.  He would come lay with me on the couch or in bed and just be there, purring away with his happiness.  That familiar sound calmed me and many times put me to sleep.  All he has ever required is to be fed and petted a little here and there.  He accepts all of me the way I am, just like Shar always did...It's like she's here with me helping me along...

I could go on and on, but I won't.  I learned a lot from Steve and Shar and I'll always be grateful for the influence they have had on my life and that they still have an influence on me each and everyday.  I hope that someday I can be all they were!  :0)