It's so simple to be wise.  Just think of something stupid to say, and then don't say it.     Sam Levenson (1911-1980)

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Goodbye, Our Incredible Friend





We all knew it would happen. Despite your consistently high spirits, your infectious optimism, your belief that giving up was not an option.


























This was true long before your diagnosis, and all the more so since.

Who else would manage to turn a course of chemotherapy into a weekly opportunity to meet old friends for a drink? Or continue her job as a swim instructor, while on chemo, because it rejuvenated her? Or take the time each and every week to reach out to her hundreds
(thousands?!) of friends, family, readers and fans.

Like any blogger, I am usually a person of words. Now, it seems, there is nothing to say.... except to ask Why?

The question only echoes back darkly, as I think of your beautiful kids, your supportive husband, continuing on without you. You made it quite clear: Pity is not your way, and faith is always the answer. Oh, to have that kind of clarity!

We were supposed to get together and paint.... just the idea got both of us so excited! It was you, RivkA, who inspired me to write. Now, after nearly a year away from this blog, your death has inspired me to return. You had that kind of strength, encouraging people to do their best, be themselves, reach their goals, believe in God, and tell it like it is.

RivkA, you're gone. We miss you horribly. But know this: Your love and enthusiasm are here to stay.


רבקה בת ישעיה, לכי בשלום.

ALN

Photo credits go to That Guy I Married, who succeeded in capturing RivkA's energy and enthusiasm for the camera, at her daughter A's bat mitzvah last June.

8 comments:

Anonymous said...

Beautiful post. RivkA certainly inspired many of us. Besides I am glad you are back to blogging.

OneTiredEma said...

RivkA and I met only once, and she was surrounded by a gaggle of people (I have gotten the impression that this was her "way"), but she was clearly one of a kind and I will miss her spirit around the blogosphere.

Like ilanadavita, I am glad to see you'll be posting again.

rickismom said...

I only really know RivkA from her blog. I have seen this coming, but it is still a soul-searching pause for me. I think I will be posting less, and giving more to my family. (But I am not giving up posting ebtirely. Hope to read at least a BIT more from you as well....)

Batya said...

wonderful post and gorgeous pictures

A Soldier's Mother said...

What amazing pictures - your husband captured her spirit. The second one brought tears to my eyes and a smile to my face...didn't know you could do both at the same time. Thank you for sharing!

Paula

Beth Gallagher said...

I did not know you personally, RivkA, but mourn your loss all the same. May you live on in the grace of what is beyond, and your family here live on in memory of you.

Baila said...

Beautiful, beautiful pictures. The joy radiates from her entire being. Thank you for sharing them.

Lady-Light said...

What a truly moving post, and truly moving photos, which show a woman full of life.

I never met her. It's my loss. May RivkA get her well-deserved reward in Olam Habah...