Ode to Joy(ce)

Yesterday, my friend Joyce passed away.

Joyce lived a good 86 years on this earth.

While her long life was a gift, it wasn’t enough. We wanted more time with her.

When our loved ones pass on, we are left with the melody of how they lived their life. I can’t change the fact that Joyce is gone, but I can share the tune she carried. This is my Ode to Joy(ce), celebrating the beautiful melody of her life.

I met Joyce a few years ago on a Sunday, where she was (seemingly) the only senior citizen at the church we were newly attending.  Every week without fail, Joyce was at the door, greeting and hugging everyone who entered the building. The first time I walked in, Joyce was there with open arms. She made me feel at home, instantly.

What I first noticed about Joyce was her laugh and smile- so upbeat and sweet. She spoke only good of others and I can’t think of one time where I heard her complain. She carried light and love to every space she entered. Her childlike faith was like nothing I have seen before.

Joyce took time to live out experiences and build memories with others. Whether it was organizing picnics, hosting lunches, or staying out late for my birthday party, Joyce was present to every moment. Living at a senior’s lodge, she made it her mission to show every person she encountered love and acceptance (even the grumpy senile people). Every ounce in Joyce beamed a sincere care for others.

My last big “hurrah” with Joyce was in November. She had us over for a movie night and we stayed at her place past midnight on a weeknight ( wild ones we are!). After our evening together, Joyce told me how much our movie night meant to her.  I was reminded of how a simple act of friendship can mean so much.

Soon after our late night pizza bender, Joyce began experiencing severe headaches. She was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor. Less than 3 months later, she is gone.

That’s the funny thing about life and relationships, you always think you have more time. We all know that our days our numbered, yet, when it hits us, it hits us hard.

We have the privilege to keep singing our loved one’s song, long after they are gone. I am grateful to carry with me everyday, my Ode to Joy(ce). What a sweet sound it is.