On Saturday morning, I was running in the woods, and as I looked at the beauty all around me, and felt grateful for my own strength...
Tears ran down my face.
I had to stop, and lean up against a tree.
It fascinates me how emotional loss can have such physical affects...
A beautiful person and friend passed away early on Friday morning. I will write about her soon... The emotions she has left behind in so many people have been awesome to watch. Her passing has reminded me of what truly matters on earth in such a clear and unequivocal way...
What matters is to love and care about others... period. And, she was masterful at that. Oh, and making others laugh...
Her name was Ivolee. Some called her lovely, some called her Ivy... I sent this message to our office this morning. It has been a long, long time, since I have been this moved by someone's death.
I just feel like I wasn't done knowing her... I wasn't even close to done... There was so much I would have wanted to know and learn from Ivolee... so very much...
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
I am sorry that I will be out of the office today. I wish I could be there simply to be with all of you as we still process for ourselves and get used to the idea of our office without Ivolee in it. Robin will be there as will many others. I will be sending out a message to all employees in a few minutes, but wanted to share this message with those of you who will be in the office…
DON’T BE SORRY FOR BEING SAD!
It’s ok to be emotional. It’s ok to take a moment in a conference room by yourself to breathe and cry. It’s ok to reach out to each other to tell stories about Ivolee and to laugh and cry together. And, be mindful of those who loved Ivolee who are not in our office, and reach out to them as well.
On Friday, so many people apologized over and over for their tears. Please don’t. It’s how we heal.
Ivolee was so very special, that she left an impression in our hearts that will never be gone. She cared so very deeply about EMG and the people in it. She brought life, laughter and care to everything she did.
It’s not only ok to be sad, it’s completely expected and appreciated. It just says we loved her, and we will miss what she brought and meant to us.
So, look out for each other today. Take moments for yourself if you need them. I believe Keri and the team are bringing in a grief counselor to have conversations with those who want them. Expect bursts of emotions to come and go throughout the day and the week.
Let’s celebrate Ivolee by keeping her in our minds as we do what we do, in the company that she loved. Please, never be sorry for being sad, nor for letting your emotions show…
Time will quickly dry our tears, and nothing will ever take the image of her smiling face and kind spirit from our hearts.
Thinking about all of you today… stay close!...
ALL of you!
in harmony,
Nestor