Artist & Friend.
My mom lost my dad and her best friend within months of each other. I think she missed Norma more than my dad. Over the next year, when my mom was feeling down, and lonely she would ask me "Where do I find another best friend at my age?" Mom was 83. I told her she probably would never have another best friend like Norma. They come once in a lifetime, but that there where many other people that could be her friend. I volunteered wholeheartedly. I wasn't exactly what she was looking for, but we made it work. Sadly, she died earlier this year, and I lost my best friend.
I've realized that people come and go, and lives are touched and smiles and tears are shared along the way. I just never know when a friend will show up, and take a hold of my heart. I had just become a volunteer for Tidewell Hospice. I do all sort of things, like delivering medicines and dressing up as a clown and visiting nursing homes. A request came in for someone to visit an older lady once a week and paint with her. She was an artist. My hand shot up....pick me, I thought. I'm an artist. She would be my first client. I could do this.
An so one Friday, I met Anne and my heart melted. Many Friday afternoons are spent doing watercolors, as I watch her finish painting after painting. My one watercolor a week, can't keep up with what she produces. We talk endlessly about the beauty and gift of not only being an artist, but the gift of life. There is a moment in creating, that the world stand stills and you enter the "zone". Its a marvelous moment. Each week I watch Anne as she enters that world, and watch her work. Her hand is so steady, as she chooses the next color and brushes in the details. Its thrilling to watch. We critique each others work, and talk about colors and composition. She knows when a painting isn't quite done, as she "putskies" around with it, until we both say "it is finished".
"Anne, I think we should have an art show of your work. Would you like to do that?" Her eyes brightened, and I started planning. We worked for weeks, finishing up paintings, making sure we had enough. The date is set. Its coming up in a couple of weeks. Brushstrokes. Art by Anne Krum, Centenarian.
I just never know when a friend will show up in my life. Anne and I have become friends. We are both artists. She is still full of life, her mind is crystal clear, her hands are steady, and she is 103.
Judy Robertson
Sarasota, Fl
8.21.07
