ELIZABETH MacLACHLAN

Two years since Beth's passing....two years without the sound of her voice, her smile, the look in her eyes...two years of recalling memories, and many, many times wishing Beth were here – if even briefly, just long enough to share in a moment of joy, or hear her input, listen to her laugh, or see her lively eyes and gorgeous smile.

But life does not allow the opportunity to turn back time. I do not have the ability to bring Beth back.

Beth was my friend. Yet, sometimes I think I was too selfish or short sighted to appreciate the gift Beth was, when she was alive. I never told her nearly often enough that I admired her….. how much I valued her wisdom…… how much I appreciated all I was learning from her. Now.....oh, how I miss her.

She was one of the strongest, most determined (stubborn), toughest (yet softest), people I ever had the pleasure of knowing. She never ever complained about the hand life dealt her - even though no one would argue that she certainly could have.

Beth expected very, very little. She lived frugally and simply. She was not a complainer. She did not allow resentment or anger to guide her. She did not hold a grudge or allow for self-pity. Beth saw the good, often when very difficult to do so.

Through her example, I learned joy by being happy with what is - instead of what I wish it was. Beth taught me true humility – to be thankful for what I have, instead of thinking I deserve more or better. She was a teacher of forgiveness, showing me how to be accepting of people as they are instead of demanding they fit my mould.

These days, it seems I blink and time has passed far too quickly.

If I hold tight to anything Beth taught me, I pray it is to not take others for granted and keep my priorities straight. To recognize what is truly important. To tell those I care about why I value them. To laugh. To see the positive. To let go of resentments. To forgive. I might not get a second chance.

………Beth appreciated and valued her family above all else. Her pride in each of you was all encompassing. Her love undeniable. You were her source of greatest joy and all that was important.

May the emptiness losing her has left you with, be filled with the insights and bits of Beth you see in each other. May you find strength in her love that you each reflect.

Thank you for sharing her and allowing what was a much to brief insight into a truly beautiful lady.

With thanksgiving,