Let Your Life Speak

I jogged to my local bookstore, toting a baked treat for the owner. At the door, I burst into tears. A small note by the “Closed” sign said she had just passed away.

Yvonne was quirky, and brusque, and it smelled funny in there. But I loved that old woman. When I first hung out my shingle as a new author, most book industry people slammed their doors in my face. Yvonne beamed and said proudly, “We’ll put your book right here in the front window.”

I’m not the only one she made feel special. No matter what item people requested, Yvonne intuitively sensed what they really needed – a bit of advice, empathy, or just a listening ear. For those short on money, she lent out her books, cautioning “not to crease the cover.”

There’s an old Quaker saying, “Let your life speak” (also a powerful book by Parker J. Palmer). Quietly and without fanfare, Yvonne was a shining example. Each person walked out of her shop feeling more loved, seen, and cared for than when they walked in.

Yvonne’s approach to life and how she treated others spoke far more volumes than the ones on her bowed, dusty shelves. I will do my best, dear mentor, to carry on your legacy.

© 2018 by Laurie B. Gardner

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14 Responses

  2. Hi, Laurie!
    This is Felipe, from the time you were teaching in Puebla, Mx., great words of wisdom, I think deep in our hearts we all want to say good bye the way your friend did: Having lots of people that can say great words about us. To actually leave a footprint in the world.
    Thank you for this! Regards!!

  4. Laurie,

    What a beautiful gift to have met such an Angel! I know you’re heart longs to see her. Thank God you have a close relationship with Sam and Michael ????

    You are a beautiful soul, so you attracted her beautiful soul. May she be surround by peace and bliss in Heaven’s Light, and May you be comforted in the best highest way. (Even if that means two extra bites of chocolate cheesecake). You deserve my friend. Much love and hugs to you.

    Namaste,

    Kitoto

  5. Aloha Laurie; I Liked the lady book store owner story. I just love old bookstores. Cozy & quiet & you never know what treasure you will find in them. There was was a bookstore near you around the corner from the theater. I used to love to go in there. I think the owner was an old guy with long beard ?? Cool place. But gone now I think.

    1. Yeah, the old bookstore around the corner from the movie theater was indeed her store. Hope someone who loves books and people as much as she did takes it over…

  6. Hi Laurie and happy new year. What beautiful and thoughtful words. Best wishes from Bíldudalur Iceland

  7. We’re sorry for the loss of this beautiful person to you and the community, Laurie. She’s an inspiration even to those who never got to meet her; thank you for sharing her story, and also helping us appreciate more all of those who brighten our lives every day (like you!)

    Blessings,

    Sandy and Michael Lee Darby

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