![]() Kindness is a word I hold near and dear...we all thrive and blossom with the slightest words and gestures of kindness from others. From a smile to a show of concern, kindness does not have to cost a thing. Each day is a new opportunity for us to impact someone else's life. We have the power to smile, to listen and to support those who are hurting in a variety of ways. We have the ability at any time to choose kindness. Kindness Comes in Many FormsThis past Sunday evening, my cousin, Eddie, from Augusta GA died from complications of pneumonia. My cousin, Thomas, shared some fond memories. "Eddie was a good guy and we did so many things together even into our late 30's . All I had to do was call him about a trip somewhere and he was ready to go. He loved bowling in his 40's and 50's a few times a week." If truth be told, Eddie was my partner-in-crime whenever the family visited Mom's people in Georgia. He was about ten years older than me - funny, patient and not much of a talker. We genuinely enjoyed hanging out with each other. It was great not always having to talk - instead we walked, drove around and genuinely experienced stuff. When I was twelve years old, Eddie took me to see "Save the Tiger" on the big screen. This movie earned Jack Lemmon an Oscar for Best Actor in 1973...and me a 'sound talking to' from my dear Momma...as I think back, I suppose the content was a tad mature for a young gal like me. Jack Lemmon stars in "Save the Tiger" as Harry Stoner , caught between watching everything he has worked for in an apparel company evaporate, or becoming another grain of sand in the erosion of the values he once held so dear. Mind you, I discovered the movie's message many years later. At the tender age of twelve, I was befuddled that I never saw an actual tiger...? Eddie didn't have an answer for me - but patiently allowed me to stay through final credits... for a possible glimpse that never happened. In those simple and gentle times, I felt completely safe when in Eddie's company. And the twinkle in Mom's eyes made me know she felt the same. Eddie sent me a necklace for high school graduation with a #1 pendant. At a most insecure time in my life, Eddie helped me feel special and treasured. In his last years, Eddie struggled with early neurocognitive issues. While he may have struggled with memory and perceptual issues, those family and friends who loved him will never forget this gentle, kind and sweet man. I look forward to meeting up with Eddie in the next dimension. I want to interview him and finally hear 'his side of the story'... For now, I send my cousins and southern friends love, prayers and thoughts from your cousins in Pennsylvania. Here is a favorite by Willie Nelson - Mom would approve and hoping ya'll do too. Love you and hugs, Maria
20 Comments
What a lovely collection of memories of a kind and thoughtful cousin. We never know what small gestures will stay with our relatives over the years. It is certain he had a positive impact on you. I'm so sorry for your loss, Mar. Losing family always hurts. Love to you on this beautiful spring day.
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3/2/2016 09:18:12 am
Memories of loved ones are precious. Eddy was the kind of person that reminds me of a brother long gone. It's a reminder for us all that kindness lives on even after we're gone. So sorry for your loss, but happy to read that your cousin hopes to see him again. I love Willie! Thank you for sharing. I love you. Hugs..
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Mike
3/2/2016 12:21:35 pm
Hello mar. Sorry for your loss. You repay Eddie's kindness to you and others so well for remembering him with love, gentleness and kindness. You are an emissary of his teachings and an A student at that.
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Shauna
3/2/2016 01:01:52 pm
Mar, I love the memories you have of Eddie. I'm sure the interview you conduct in the "other dimension" will be enlightening. I'm sorry you lost your cousin and friend; it's never easy.
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3/2/2016 07:41:13 pm
Prof. Mahreer,
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Shannon Henry
3/2/2016 08:52:13 pm
I have fond memories of my cousins as well that have lasted a lifetime. Sorry to hear of your loss, sweet Maria. Such a kind mind would certainly be proud of the kindness you share with the world around you. Kindness and love go hand in hand. If one fails in kindness, ti always returns whenever love is in the heart. It can never be gone long.
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Theresa
3/2/2016 09:33:11 pm
Dear Maria,
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Dear Maria,
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