I Hate Death

I recently lost Grady. She was my Steward, my Mentor, my Friend.

I was taught from a young age that death is the final step in life and is not something to be distraught over. I believe this. We all, at some point, must shed our mortal coil. My mind knows this to be true, but yet and still I feel stung.

We are all born....we are all created equal...but some...some.....through pure will and determination decide that their life will be exceptional. And through that choice they will not die equal. When we lose someone of that ilk it feels different. When someone truly great dies it should hurt!

Grady was the most unique woman I ever met. My mom, and grand mom were strong women on the inside, but Grady was strong inside and out. She would make a strong man's knees buckle. Seeing this, I was immediately attracted to her.

She was “Pushback” “Thrive” “Bossypants” and “Lean In” before they were ever written. A lady, living in a mans world that innately knew what it took to be the best of both.

She was a standard bearer, a force of nature, that led through sheer force of will.

Her wisdom was pristine. She knew how to read people, and she knew human nature was usually the catalyst and/or result of most decisions. Her simplicity was genius.

In a world full of takers Grady was a giver. And she could afford to be a giver because she was a producer first and foremost.

I was recently re-reading “The 48 Laws of Power” and while reading I was reflecting on influential people in my life. It was amazing how many times Grady came to mind.

The chapter “Re-create Yourself” …......Grady

“Despise the Free Lunch” ….........Grady

“Assume Formlessness”..........Grady

“Stir up water to catch fish”

“Keep others in suspended terror”

“Never outshine the Master”

Grady.... Grady..... Grady.

Keep in mind this was a woman born in 1927.

My favorite thing about Grady was her quick wit, and sense of humor. Everyone that knew and loved her did an impression of her. Her melodic tone, blended with a distinct cadence, hummed to a snappy rhythm. I can hear it now.... When someone seemed overwhelmed and in over their heads she'd say “He was a lost ball in high weeds.”

I remember going to a ceremony with her where there were bed sheets on a dining table instead of table clothes.... without missing a beat she quipped “We're living in (President) Hoover's time.”

No doubt my life was made better and more enjoyable because of the years I was blessed to know her.

Today I hate death because it took Grady away.