35 Comments

Eliza, I'm so sad for you that Mary Jane is gone from your life, but clearly you've preserved so much of her in your writing. I can't imagine how grateful she must have felt to have you close by to visit with her and share your discoveries as you delved deeper into writing since you're parents have died, and also to have the connection with your mother in person and through her painting. I met her once at an odd party and when she talked about you her eyes lit up and her whole face lifted. She was so proud of you, like the flowers she'd grown to surround her with beauty and grace. Your writing is stellar.

Expand full comment
author

That’s so lovely to hear. Thank you, Liz

Expand full comment

An amazing thing that you were in each other’s lives on such a deep level all these years. She sounds like an amazing human

Expand full comment
author

Yes. I was so lucky

Expand full comment

Eliza, so sorry about your loss. This is a beautiful piece and she would surely be very proud of you! Warm hugs.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Sonia

Expand full comment

What a gift to have this connection with your mentor up until she left this life. I loved this piece, Eliza.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Amber

Expand full comment

“The people who bring us to our craft are holy.”

Beautiful story and tribute to your mentor.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Tina.

Expand full comment

Beautifully written, beautifully shared. I am so sorry for your loss.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Maria

Expand full comment

Such a lovely tribute. You two have been singing each other’s praises for decades. Love and hugs.

Expand full comment
author

Thanks, Chris ♥️

Expand full comment

I am so sorry to hear of your lost mentor but, know she would be so proud of how beautifully you write about her. You made her come alive to me. I felt her value.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Fonda

Expand full comment

This is a beautiful tribute piece. This kind of mentorship and friendship is such a special thing to have had as an adult. I am sorry for your loss.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Amy

Expand full comment

Eliza - this is such a touching and evocative tribute to your friend and mentor. Your sharing of bits of memories if beautiful. Sending love

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Melanie

Expand full comment

I am so sorry for your loss, Eliza. Thank you for another beautiful and insightful piece of writing. And I also loved the poem.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Susan

Expand full comment

Sorry for your loss...

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Susan

Expand full comment

Say "hi" to Kim from Maine...

Expand full comment

Ah, the myriad of losses we endure as adults. May you be comforted by your memories. Thank you for sharing the poem, so fitting.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Amy

Expand full comment

Oh my, what a loss to the world but especially you! But maybe not a loss as she is deeply within your heart and soul. You sound as if you were a great friend! Loved this piece of work!

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Marge

Expand full comment

Beautiful. I welled up reading her poem.

Expand full comment
author

Right??

Expand full comment

Sorry about your loss, her memory is a blessing.

Expand full comment
author

Thank you, Kate

Expand full comment