Thursday, November 8, 2018
Helen Fisher was the matriarch of a wonderful family that I had the honor of knowing and being friends with. Her children and grandchildren are a wonderful testament to her love, humor, knowledge and guidance as they grew up. I know. I was there. Not only was I there, but I too benefited from Helens' guiding hand.
Growing up I had a lot of personal challenges that I struggled with in and outside of my home. At one point, Helen's home became my refuge. A safe place free of judgement and ridicule. A soothing balm to my anxiety filled days. That acceptance of me as I am by Helen and the rest of her family saved me from a different path I could of gone down. A dark path filled with pain and anger. Instead Helens friendship showed me there are others in my circle of interaction, that aren't, pardon my french, assholes. That it was important that despite the struggles and trials, to have the ability to push through with a smile. Eventually getting to the point of taking on the negative with a laugh and an I can do this attitude.
Fast forward to today, where I stand in a place I never allowed myself to imagine being. I have a house in Niagara Falls. More importantly my home is filled with my husband and my beautiful daughter and our adventures. I've been self employed doing my own business thing for 17 years. I've had numerous speed bumps along the way but the person I am now handles those speed bumps the best I can thanks to my developing years of which Helen was a significant part of.
Taking a page from Helens book, I also do my best to help others along the way, young and old where and when I can. Showing a way to smile or laugh when they only want to cry or give up.
So, although I say goodbye to an old friend, its not really goodbye at all, as her guiding hand has touched my life forever. Thank you Helen. RIP
