Christmas 365 - Day 41 (Feb 10)

Today was a simple day in that today is the birthday of an incredible lady I had the honor and privilege of meeting through work.  She would have been 96 or 97 today I think...but she passed away two years ago.  I only knew her for two years...and yet during those two years, I learned a lot from her.  She was an incredibly wealthy matriarch with a long history within Texas.  I must admit that when I was on my way to meet her, I was just a bit intimidated...  A poor girl from south Texas going to meet someone who had donated A LOT to philanthropic causes…would I know how to speak the right way?  Was I dressed the right way?  Would I make a fool out of myself?

I'm very glad to say that none of my fears were realized as Ms. Vieve was a true gem in every way possible.  She was so very sweet and accommodating and genuine.  There was nothing pretentious about her or "mightier than thou."  She was a very simple lady...with a lot of wisdom and love...and a great desire to help people.  We became fast friends.  I would take her out of her assisted living residence and take her to eclectic restaurants and tea houses...places that she normally wouldn't visit...and she would say, "oh - how very interesting!" which would make me laugh.

Through her, I learned a lot about Texas history...and how her family developed and how, through the savvy insight of her father and his brothers, they were able to accumulate wealth.  I learned that despite having wealth, she was an incredibly hard worker and instilled those values in her children and that even if you had wealth behind you...you were not immune to tragedy as she had several events happen that I think would have crushed me emotionally.  Despite all that, she remained ever hopeful and giving...determined to better the lot of as many people as possible.  How I so very much admire her...and hope I can be just like her when I grow up.

So today, in her honor...I wrote letters to one of her sons and her daughter, both of which I had previously met, and I let them know how very much their Mom meant to me...and how I miss her still. 

I think before my quest, I would have remembered her birthday and closed my eyes and honored her and the memories I have of her for a few minutes.  But now that I’m trying to be more mindful, I’m glad I have written and mailed those letters…as an encouragement and so that they know that there is someone else out there who thought the world of their mom…because through her, I was able to see the world differently and I was able to learn about what is truly valuable…and it’s not money.

Merry Christmas, Ms. Vieve!  I know that you are spreading your wisdom and cheer in heaven…and meanwhile, I miss you down here…but I have my fond memories… Thank you!

Until tomorrow…   Annie