Acknowledgement

Every once in a while we experience the shock of losing someone whom we cared about deeply. Recently, Northwest Assistance Ministries has experienced this in the loss of a long time staff member, Liz Torres, who left us December 08, after developing sudden complications from Diabetes. Liz was 59. This month, on February 08, we lost a very much loved, long time volunteer, Joanne Watford. Joanne's passing was shocking because it was also sudden and she was the picture of health. She, too, was only 59 years young.

Too often, in our daily lives and work, we take each other for granted. While we use special occasions to recognize or honor those we respect, love and admire, we fail to take the time to acknowledge the contributions and special gifts we witness and receive each day from those around us.

Both of these wonderful individuals were kind, caring, giving people who were content to remain in the background. They were easily unnoticed as they were both uncomfortable with recognition. They both enjoyed their families, had deep faith and took time to give back to others. Each was simple in their tastes, material things were unimportant. They were wonderful examples of how we should all strive to live. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to know them and to learn from them.

Although their passing is still difficult to accept, I will take comfort in the lessons they taught me. I will strive to take more time to acknowledge my family, friends and all those who touch my life on a daily basis. I will strive to focus on using my God given talents to make the world a better place, to let go of the painful things I cannot change, and to continually seek to do what He expects from me.

I can only hope Liz and Joanne, along with all those we have loved and lost, truly know how they touched and changed our lives for the better.