"Mija," she called me, a Spanish term of endearment, an honor bestowed on few. "Mija," with her gentle hugs, bright smile, and operatic voice. "Mija."
My dear friend from South Bend, Hilary Bollman, died today. She cheated death many times with several medical conditions. Her life, to put it mildly, was not an easy journey. On the way, she lived out her dreams: she graduated from Notre Dame University, she taught high school Spanish, she met President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush, met a dolphin, enjoyed her beautiful image in a wedding dress, visited her heart's love - D.C., and despite all the pain and trials throughout her life, she really lived.
My heart goes out to the Bollman family and everyone whose life was touched by Hilary. We are truly blessed by this woman's life.
Querida Mija,
Thank you. If it weren't for you and your mom, my husband and I would've never dreamed of making our own wedding cake. Those fondant calla lillies would've never been possible had you all not shown us how. And I recall on my wedding day thinking of you as I looked at the cakes... before my husband and I smashed the cake in each others' faces. :)
You were never short on humorous and smart remarks - I loved them. We went on quite a few retreats together. Many of our experiences with Community and Fellowship were shared. You enjoyed the beauty in nature, people, and experiences. I will not forget you, Mija.
Since all my college pics are stored away, the picture below is a symbol of a memory I have with you. We were sitting on the side of the Jefferson Memorial, just talking, enjoying each others' company. I will hold this one close.
En mi corazon,
Mija
Details of her life are included in a friends' blog.
No comments:
Post a Comment