SMITH

A hummingbird. Achingly intricate, the tiny healer. A gift for the eyes in a flash of color. Wings in flight—a constant figure 8, infinity. A delicate symbol of strength and the power of adaptability.It flies in any direction at any given moment. A messenger from the ones we’ve lost. Much like children, it is playful, unbound, and a light-bringer. It searches for the sweetness in life. Hummingbirds come as a reminder to cherish life’s little pleasures.

 

A butterfly. The power of air, to float upon a breeze. They appear to dance as they flutter among the flowers. An emblem of transformation and change. Representing eternal life. A most delicate creature traveling far and wide, enduring the elements.

 

Life is full of contrast.

 

A tragedy. One so incomprehensible that it brought a family and a community to it’s knees. Like the calm soaring of an eagle high in the sky, or the way waters flow—there are things in life we simply cannot control, things that are inexplicable.

 

But we can overcome.

 

And while a community sat by, hearts pouring out, wondering “how and why”, they did just that. They overcame. With a sorrow so deep that it reached the earth’s core, igniting a fire that roared so loud and burned so bright. That fire—the triumph of the human spirit.
To overcome, to repair, and to solider-on in the darkest of times. For ourselves and for the ones we love. 

 

Einstein said: “Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better”. I believe this to be true. Guided by nature and all of it’s metaphors, we can overcome anything, be anything, and soar. Then, we are our most free selves. Free to heal, free to love, free to forgive. And all wings start to resemble those of angels.

 

This tribute to Cora Cheney enlightens. A child-like composition that dances around in every which way. Color, loose form, familiar shapes of love and happiness together in perfect harmony. Playful layers of blue surround an upward path, a night sky with a child-like moon. A hummingbird seeks sweet nectar just like children, who seek joy in everything they do. Four butterflies; a family bonded together through thick and thin. Whimsical gardens, glistening light, shadows, flowers. Everything untethered and kindred. A gold ring for each year of her life. A poppy floats, serving us to remember. 

 

Sadness: when I imagine the loss. 

Admiration: when I think of the triumph of the human spirit,
and the grace of those who push on.

 

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