Beatriz Grayson
Posted by admin on September 23rd, 2006 at 12:18 am (Memories)
Nearly fifty years ago, after we first met in our freshman year at Pratt, Evelyn
gave me the following poem by Ralph Waldo Emerson.
To laugh often and love much,
to win the respect of intelligent persons
and the affection of children;
to earn the approbation of honest critics
and endure the betrayal of false friends;
to appreciate beauty;
to find the best in others;
to give one’s self;
to leave the world a bit better,
whether by a healthy child,
a garden patch or
a redeemed social condition;
to have played and laughed with enthusiasm
and sung with exultation;
to know even one life has breathed easier
because you have lived -
this is to have succeeded.
There is no doubt that our dear Evelyn did it all, with grace and beauty. I
know I am a better person because she was in my life.
I cannot comprehend the physical absence of my big sister, my maid of honor, my
best friend. I do know that I will carry her thoughts and her spirit with me
for as long as I am on this side of the divide.
Everett, I embrace you.
