Viewpoints
Helen Finney, my friend
By Julie Kay Smithson
April 14, 2008
Monday PM
Helen Finney. Even her name evokes a smile and always the memory
of those sparkling blue eyes. This vibrant and special woman
was my friend.
In Sparks, Nevada, at an American Agri-Women and American Women
In Timber conference in November 2001, she removed the Alaska
Women In Timber pin she was wearing and pinned it on me when
I praised its beauty. With tears in her eyes, she said she no
longer needed it, because Alaska Women In Timber would cease
to exist on December 31st after a quarter-century. This pin hangs
prominently in my office, less than two feet from my keyboard,
reminding me daily of her heroic efforts on behalf of Alaska's
timber-related economy.
I am grateful for all the things that put her and me in the same
place at the same time, that one time, for it was a deep and
abiding, unforgettable blessing. Four years later, out of the
blue, I received a dear card and donation from her. The postmark
was Hawaii, where she and Don were spending time as she cared
for him.
This morning I awakened, wondering again why her email address
was no longer working, and checked the Internet, thinking Don
had slipped the bonds of earth. No, it was Helen. In less than
two years, two Helens, both very dear to me, have gone Home.
Both have surely made Heaven shine brighter!
Julie Kay Smithson
London, OH
http://www.propertyrightsresearch.org
Received April 14, 2008 - Published
April 14, 2008
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