Jo Lee -
I hardly know where to start?
As irony would have it, my family started last Thursday night off celebrating my wife's "all clear" from cancer. We went out and ate and then decided to stop by Randall's to pick up a few things. My wife noticed the memorial wreath at the entrance first, then my son and then myself. We were all shaken pretty badly and the ride home was somber and quiet. It was a profound juxtaposition of emotion.
It affected each of us, because you had touched each one of us.
That's rare to say about anyone, let alone someone you encounter at a store three or four times a week. But, that's the kind of person you are. I've been coming to your Starbucks longer than I can remember and you treated everyone like a long lost friend or family member. You remembered their name, their story and their order. I always loved that. I was there so much, I'd just walk in and hold my fingers up to show you how many drinks I needed. And that left us more time to catch up on each others life.
When my wife got sick, you always had words of encouragement. You told me your story and asked how she was every single time I came in. When my son was afraid for his mom, you were proof that Cancer could be beat and helped ease his anxiety in ways I couldn't. And when my wife would come in, you always had a kind word to say and were a kindred spirit. You helped her through her recovery.
You adored your daughter and would always tell me stories about her. You'd show me pictures and I felt like I knew Dorothy when I'd never even met her. I always thought what a lucky woman she was to have a great mom like you. You were so proud of her and must have told me so a million times. And I never got tired of hearing it, because it was genuine.
And no matter what obstacles life threw at you you just kept moving forward. I wish I could bottle your positive spirit. You always used to say "the good Lord wasn't ready for you" after everything you went through. You lived life on your terms and you did it with a smile, a laugh, a kind word and a tender soul.
I've never been a religious guy, but I know how much you are. And if there is a heaven, I unequivocally believe that you are there. And the Lord must have needed you something awful to have you come home.
I'm most sad for everyone you left behind, because we lose out on not having you here with us. We could all learn a thing or two from you on the positive outlook you had. I know I have.
I'm going to miss you Jo Lee. Thanks for being a part of my life and thanks for being a friend.
Brad