Lorie

This week my dear friend Lorie moved away. I have known it was coming for months, but rather than dealing with it sensibly, I pretended it was not going to happen. Monday, it did. I was too upset to see her off at the dock. As I am not usually one for big emotional displays, I was a little surprised at my reaction in the privacy of my post office window. I suppose I shouldn't have been, though, as Lorie is the kind of friend you only get once.

When I first arrived here, the wife of my husband's boss asked me if I had met Lorie yet. I said no, and asked why. The lady said, "Oh, no reason. I'll just let you see for yourself when you do meet her." What does THAT mean, I wondered. This kind of question about Lorie came up a few more times, and I grew more and more intrigued. Someone said that I would either love her or hate her.

Lorie lived a few houses down from me. We finally met. And then I understood. Lorie is outspoken, brave, hardworking, honest, and fair. She is not afraid to meet a problem head on. She always does what is right and just, and demands the same from all who surround her. She is funny, so damned funny. And kinder than I have ever been. We were immediately friends, and a better friend, neighbor, and troupe member I cannot ask for. For a meeker person, I can understand how she might seem intimidating, but I loved her from the first day.

Lorie challenged me and inspired me to lose 40 pounds last year, and take better care of myself. She is my official kick in the ass when I need it, and nobody can take me down a peg like she can. Nor would I allow it from anyone but her.

I miss her desperately already, and I hope she, and all you who read this, understand that my pathetic attempt here to honor my dear friend is in no way complete enough, or good enough, or just...enough,to be worthy of such a wonderful lady.