Words Create Worlds ® – May 2009 Newsletter

I began the first paragraph for this Mother’s Day Edition last Friday morning. That evening, as I was searching for a way to handle a difficult situation, one of those you just don’t want to even think about. My Blackberry buzzed and I quickly glanced at the message subject line – Announcement regarding Patti Lawrence. I read the note even though I did not know Patti Lawrence.

Today, I feel as connected to Patti as one could be to someone they never met. Holding my phone and looking at the brief message – I was stunned. This was my reminder to take the high road, to not be distracted, to cherish family and friends, and to stay focused on my strengths.

By the brief email I could tell that Patti was the type of person that brought honor and compassion to her profession and personal life. I now know that Patti was a Professor of Congregational Studies at the Starr King School for the Ministry. The school honored her a few short weeks ago for her service to the school. Patti gave freely of her love and her energy. I share this with you so that you too will know Patti. And that you will let the Patti in your life know how she (or he) contributes to your joyful life. That Patti was so honored and so loved was evident in the tender words of the person who had updated her email with Patti’s final goodbye. Patti, had at some time expressed and interest in our work with Appreciative Inquiry, as the message was an auto response to an announcement of a new AIFT date set.

This is the email that I received:

“Subject: Announcement Concerning Patti Lawrence

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Our beloved Patti took her last breaths at about 12:50 pm today. She went very peacefully and was surrounded by her closest family and friends.

I will be posting more details of her memorial service here on the blog http://pattilawrence.blogspot.com/when we have them. We also want to make a slideshow of pictures so if you have any pictures please start gathering them and I will post how to get them to me soon.

For more information please visit http://sksm.edu/info/journal_archive/pattie-lawrence-announcement.html.

If you are blessed to have a Patti (male or female) in your life – be joyful and loving to them. As an educator Patti knew that each one of us has an impact on others – in ways we may not even know.

Reach out, breathe deep and embrace your passions.