Dear loved ones of Linda,
As you may not know who I am, I will introduce myself as one of the fortunate Frankie/Linda friends. Eighteen years ago I entered into the wonderful world of Special Education as Frankie’s student teacher. Shortly after that, Linda & Frankie joined forces to become the inseparable dynamic duo. While there are many fine teaching teams, Linda & FrankieÂ’s genuine love for all children, absolute joy in teaching those with special needs and the mutual respect and devotion they held for each other created a truly unique and rich learning environment. A visit to their classroom felt as if you had just stepped into the living room or kitchen of a loving family rather than into a classroom of “disabled†children.
Of course, you know all of this already. I have hesitated taking this very personal step of writing to those who knew and loved her best for this very reason and because, if measured in time, I wasnÂ’t a big part of LindaÂ’s life. Then again, whenever I was with her, she made me feel that I was.
Although I knew of her battle with cancer, she appeared to fight it with such focused calm, steadfast courage and ready humor. It seemed absolutely impossible that her vital spirit could be vanquished. Now, the world seems suddenly less bright in knowing that she is gone from it. I have felt myself compelled to speak of her so often this week, to people who may have known her and to people whom I wish could have known her. Short in stature, she was most generous in heart. I seem to remember that she often stood with her arms or hands gently folded, yet the impression she gave was always one of open arms. It was impossible not to be at ease in her presence . . . her demeanor so accepting, her smile continuos, and a laugh always at the ready. Even her voice had a warm, soothing quality to it. Although unassuming & quick to give credit elsewhere, it was easy to see what a blessing she was to the people she held dear in her life as wife, mother, teacher, friend, and so on. In thinking of her, a flood of warm, loving words rushes into my mind . . . gracious, kind, loving, down to earth, gentle, honest, fun, and though the words might continue on & on, they represent only a glimmer of her beautiful, shining spirit.
I do believe that in dying we are resurrected to eternal life. I do believe that although LindaÂ’s body was vanquished by cancer, her spirit is not. I will hold this faith close to my heart when it becomes burdened by the sadness of her loss. Please know that prayers of comfort, peace and hope surround you today and in all the days ahead. Finally, I will always lift up prayers of thanks for the warm, golden presence of Linda, who touched my life briefly, and surrounded you in yours.
With deepest sympathy,
Elise Bullinger-Sandstrom##imported-begin##Elise Bullinger-Sandstrom##imported-end##
