Elizabeth Edwards

I was saddened to learn of Elizabeth Edwards' passing yesterday after a hard battle with cancer. She seemed like a strong, well-centered woman who worked for good things and who suffered some very bad ones.


Two particular aspects of the news reports caught my attention.  The first was a statement by the President:

In her life, Elizabeth Edwards knew tragedy and pain.  Many others would have turned inward; many others in the face of such adversity would have given up.  But through all that she endured, Elizabeth revealed a kind of fortitude and grace that will long remain a source of inspiration.  Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends.

The second was her own words, released the day before she died:

The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And, yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human. 

But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful. It isn't possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel to everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know.

Both comments were quite memorable.