I took the day off. Did I have time? No. Did I have unanswered emails and a book deadline. Yes. Did I walk over a dirty floor, past laundry in the washer and dishes in the sink? Yes. Did I care? No. I grabbed my dog Holly and we walked; really, really far. I needed to be alone and process that my friend Dionne
Warner died.
As I walked, I thought about the courageous woman I had called friend and I finally had a good cry. Then she popped into my mind and I thought, “What would Dionne say to me right now?”
She would say:
Stop crying! She would kick my butt if she knew I was sad for too long. She survived cancer nine times. Each time she was diagnosed with cancer she gave herself a 24-hour pity party then focused on the positive.
Go have a walk! She would say, “Leave the work and go and have a sunny walk!” No one I have ever met has better taught me the importance of enjoying each day to the fullest. Literally, no one.
Look around at how beautiful everything is! No one loved to explore more than Dionne and in all her worldly travels, she loved our beloved Saskatchewan. She taught me to mindfully take in all that is around me.
Get rid of toxic people! She told me countless times that she didn’t let toxic people in her life. Three strikes and you are out was her rule.
Celebrate life! Dionne and Graham celebrated life, like no couple I have ever met. And Darren and I were so blessed to be a part of some of those celebrations. I tear up as I think of our last meal together. (Oops, sorry Dionne, no more crying.)
Love! There is no greater love than the love story of my precious friends.
I walked home slowly feeling very grateful for my life, my work and my messy home.
What would Dionne say? That EVERY DAY is a gift.
Love,
