Authenticity
Her resolve is mindboggling. When faced with circumstances that would have most of us shrinking, she confronts them with an attitude that speaks – rather, it shouts – “I am an overcomer!”
Most would describe her as down-to-earth, solid, resolute. A level-headed, strong-willed woman with a dogged determination that mountains were meant to be climbed, and Shea will not only climb them, she will reach the summit well ahead of anything – or anyone — following her.
Though she and I have traveled in the same circle of friends for several years, it’s just been over the last few months during our walks and hikes she’s peeled back a few layers that have allowed me to see the character and integrity that lies within.
I have never heard Shea say a discouraging word about anyone. That’s not to say she lacks discernment and judgment; she just doesn’t condescend or speak ill of others. If she hears another make a negative comment, she will find something positive to say in their defense. I marvel at this exceptional quality. It causes me to want to come up higher and remove that impulse to make unsavory, damaging comments about others.
Shea has endured many hardships and disappointments, but you’d never know it. She enters a room with a robust and hearty, “Hi, Everyone!” To others’ queries when voicing circumstances they’re experiencing, Shea conveys concrete, practical advice in a calm, sensible manner. She invariably exhibits an attitude of strength and prudence in every situation.
Bridge
Even when her spouse was facing a serious health crisis, Shea has been stoic. If she was apprehensive, it has never surfaced for others to see. Though enduring numerous delays while waiting for test results, and while medical professionals scheduled more tests and procedures, Shea displayed an indefatigable quality of patience and fortitude. When asked about updates, she would courageously deliver the latest, and would summarize by expressing a quiet acceptance of possible undesirable outcomes. Her unyielding posture displaying a ‘We’ll get through it’ demeanor is remarkable.
And, recently, when my own health experienced an unforeseen challenge, Shea’s was the voice that calmed and reassured others during the episode.
Blesson
Most every day affords us numerous encounters with others whether by phone, social media, email, or face-to-face. It’s safe to say that a great percentage of those are ordinary and have no lasting effect on our lives. Shea is the exception in my life and I dare say, probably in the lives of most everyone she meets.
Shea continuously impacts my life with her tenacity, courage, resilience, and determination, etc. Those qualities are not naturally inherited, nor can they be bought; they come from many hard-fought battles with setbacks, disappointments, trials, and loss. Though she probably would have preferred a journey that was more gratuitous, the path she has traveled has equipped her with enviable traits that are extraordinary.
Having her friendship is an unequivocal blessing; the lessons she teaches me through her approach to life’s circumstances are incalculable.
Substance
“So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them.” (Genesis 1:27, NIV)
For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light!. For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. (Eph. 5:8-9, NLT)
You are God’s children whom he loves, so try to be like him.(Ephesians 5:1, NCV)
