Today I would like to thank my housemate and friend, Hady. Although we spent 13 weeks in Franciscan Mission Service's formation program sharing a wall, I have really gotten the opportunity to know Hady better over the past several months that we have shared living space in Cochabamba, Bolivia. It is here where I have come to appreciate Hady's care for her family and friends, from near in our city, to far in places like New York, California, and Minnesota. Hady is always first to post updates on Facebook, to tag friends in pictures, and to check in with friends and loved ones all over the globe. Her generosity goes without saying, but for those of you who do not know her, let me tell you anyway. Hady goes out of her way to write a card of thanks, give a thoughtful gift, or share her food with friends and with people she meets on the street alike. She sends birthday cards and postcards, as well as creations of recycled plastic bags and goodies from her ministry site, to those who are celebrating special occasions. In this way, she is sharing a part of her world with her new companeras y companeros with those who have been in her life from the different places she is happy to call home. But I would be remiss if I did not share more of Hady's personality with you, because it is such an integral part of explaining who she is. Hady is a tried and true, proud New Yorker, and if anyone has anything negative to say about her state, she will defend it til the death. She is also quick-witted, fast-talking, full of life, and does not let a disagreement last more than a day. She makes strong connections, and even stronger relationships. She looks each challenge straight in the face, and dares it to defy her. She has the self-confidence of a tiger, and she fervently reverences the Virgin Mary. She prays hard, works hard, and lives life to the fullest. Thank you, Hady, for being an example of a strong woman and an honest Christian believer! I look forward to our future adventures, and can't wait to see you knock whatever potential curve balls life continues to through us here out of the park!
2 Comments
Maria Medina
8/26/2014 12:21:31 pm
What a beautiful way to show your appreciation Valerie. You must be a very special woman indeed to be able to appreciate and describe Hady so beautifully. Of course, we all know it takes a very special kind of person to leave all behind to serve as a missioner. Bendiciones y Abrazos! Paz y bien (you see, I'm learning!)
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Valerie
8/27/2014 04:15:32 am
Muchas gracias, Maria! What a sweet note, from a sweet friend of Hady's...it was easy to write because it's all true :). Blessings, hugs, peace, and good to you, too!
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AuthorValerie Ellis, who is in alignment with the Black Lives Matter Movement and everyone whose life is impacted, now or before, by times of social injustice. Archives
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