If you don't know Romy. . . you should!

Romy is a beautiful woman inside and out who has been a very important part of my life for the past 17 years. We were 11 years old when we met. Besides my family, there is nobody who has been in my life longer. I had just moved to La Crescenta with my dad and we moved into the same apartment complex where Romy lived. I think it was only about a week before Romy and I met and very shortly after that we became inseprable. Our relationship has been through highs and lows, like any true friendship has, but our connection has never been lost. No matter what we have been through individually or separately she is a part of me and that will never change. She loves me in a way that very few others do. She is funny, creative, loving, generous, intelligent, kind. . . and so much more.


When I got back from Anchorage, I had 12 letters from her in my mailbox. Nearly everyday she sent me something. Sometimes it was a letter, sometimes a sweet card, somtimes books to make me laugh or gain inspiration. One day it was a survivor's story, another day it was the definition of a "medallion man." She sent poems, affirmations, and even a joke book that she and her 5th grade students made for me. It was incredible. I didn't open anything right away. I waited for a really quiet moment where I could sit and take it all in. On Saturday I spent part of the day at my friend's cabin a few miles out of town. Erik was in town with me still and he ventured off to go fishing for a while, so I had a nice relaxing space to delve into everything she sent me. I laughed and cried and felt so touched, so grateful for who she is.

She and her students made a Joke Book for me. Each student had a page to write a joke, complete with illustrations. It was so so sweet. The jokes were so funny and those which I didn't really get, still made me laugh. I've gone through it again and again, each time catching a little something more. It was so touching to see what these sweet kids were willing to do for Miss V's friend. Here is the letter from Romy that is in the front of the book.

May 17, 2006

Dear Sasha,
I am still thinking of you every moment. My only salvation has been my work and the needs of my kids. I came to work today and decided that they could see a part of my human side. I told them that I have a sick friend and that you would be having surgery on the 22nd. Right away, they were like "What can we do? How can we help?" So we made this gift for you in hopes that you could forget, if at least for a moment.

I know that I have told you how low they are academically and this book is the proof. I have also said that they are the sweetest kids I have ever known, and this book is also the evidence of that. Some of these jokes are truly funny. And then others reflect laughable skills. I showed them pictures of us and Sarah (who wrote the first joke) asked, "Which one is you, Miss V?" Poor thing.

We are all thinking of you and sending our love, happy thoughts, and positive energy.

Love You,
Romy

When the day comes that you are near don't let me forget to show this book to you. It is just so special and truly lifted me up.

Another very poignant letter I got from Romy talked about a book called "You Can Heal Your Life" by Louise L. Hay. Romy says that the book talks about every affliction from abdominal cramps to yeast infections (in ABC order). The author suggests that every illness is caused by things within our control and that we can begin to heal simply by saying an affirmation several times a day. I have not seen the book, but I have ordered it. My initial reaction is that our thoughts or attitudes do not necessarily "cause" physical illnesses. However, I am a firm believer that they are a part of the problem and solution. I absolutely believe in the power of our thoughts and the energy of our spirit and how it can affect our physical wellness, or lack there of. Romy shared exerpts from the book as they relate to my current situation. The connection I felt to these ideas were so powerful that I wanted to share them. I'd love to know your thoughts on this.

Problem - Breast(s)
Probable Cause - Represents mothering and nurturing and nourishment.
New Thought Pattern - I take in and give out nourishment in perfect balance.

Problem - Breast Problems
Probable Cause - A refusal to nourish the self. Putting everyone else first. Overmothering. Overprotection. Overbearing attitudes.
New Thought Pattern - I am important. I count. I now care for and nourish myself with love and with joy. I allow others the freedom to be who they are. We are all safe and free.

Problem - Cancer
Probable Cause - Deep hurt. Longstanding resentment. Deep secret or grief eating away at the self. Carrying hatreds. The "What's the use?" attitude.
New Thought Pattern - I lovingly forgive and release all of the past. I choose to fill my world with joy. I love and approve of myself.

Romy made six copies of each affirmation so that I can put them all around as a reminder to say them out loud and to myself. Romy is a light in my life and I just wanted to take this moment to share a little bit of her with you. To you Romy, thank you from the deepest place I have, for your unwavering support, love, and hope. Everything you have sent has been received with the utmost gratitude. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you! May you all be lucky enough to have a Romy in your life.


I Love you Romy!