One Colorful Life

When Susan heard rustling autumn leaves, she felt colorful. While others were agonizing over finding light in their lives, Susan was experiencing it every day, especially in autumn. She'd frequently stroll with Herbert, her golden lab. Spring was fun, but not like autumn. In spring, noise from leaves usually warned that a thunderstorm was looming overhead. In autumn, the vivid shades, with soft tones, drifted from plump oak trees, not realizing a destination. Believing in moral order, Susan felt falling leaves fitting into place like a puzzle created by God. While many folks experienced a litany of reasons not to celebrate life, Susan was soaking up the joy of autumn like many women soak in bubble baths. When Susan and Herbert arrived home from walks, she'd feed Herbert, and then call a friend. Susan lightened up anyone lucky enough to be on the end of her telephone line as she shared about her day. Eventually the winter of Susan's life evolved. Though she was blind, Susan realized more colors of autumn leaves in one day than most people see in a lifetime. Next she would inspire someone with lively descriptions. At Susan's memorial service, Dr. Waugh said, "She brought color into everyone's life. The snow is on the ground today…a real indication that Susan took autumn colors with her to heaven, knowing once she got there she'd be able to see every brilliant leaf." Written November 15th, 2001 © on Nov 15 2001 09:26 AM PST   10 • 0 • 13