Friday, November 28, 2008

A strawberry in a bowl of peas

Jess -
The birthday card I picked out for you was a quote by Weston Twardowski, age 10 - it says, "You stand out like a strawberry in a bowl of peas." I saw it weeks ago and knew I had to get it for you. I had to get it because you look fabulous in red; you're vivacious, lively, intelligent, and bold. You are a radiant original - a firecracker and a low-key sweetheart with a fabulous laugh, sparkly blue eyes and a beautiful smile. (Who blows those plain Jane peas out of the water!)

Yet with your birthday came heaviness to your originality, and a reminder of how you said you weren't looking forward to 33. And here it is - not at all what any of us want for you. I feel sad, pissed, helpless, and thankful all at the same time. Surely there must be something one can do, yet for now it really isn't about doing, but rather about being where we're at. It's through realizing this that I can again be thankful you are a vibrant strawberry in a bowl of peas, because it's who you are, and who you will be in kicking this thing. You have a graceful strength and a strong will - you are clever, witty, creative, and not afraid of getting pissed off. The perfect ingredients to come out ahead.

So while I'm not "doing" anything to change your situation (although I sure do want to) I am "being" with you. You are in my thoughts and heart. I love you Jess Blaine. You are a lovely and radiant being.

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