Who Was Connie O. 


By Cathie

The tremendous loss of our dear friend has brought a question to my mind. Just who was Connie O? Sure we all know how she belonged to just about every Committee Garden Of Friendship has and held the position of Garden Keeper. But few of us had the pleasure and honor to really see her as an individual. 


Looking back from the day I became a member I was immediately drawn to her by her picture in our Garden Album. There was something in her eyes and her smile. I just knew I was going to like this person. So, being of inquisitive mind, I set out to visit her web home. That is where I read about her illness, courage and attitude. Yes sir, I liked her - and yet had not even met her nor written to her. 


Through the following months I took notice of her dedication and devotion to all our members. She would not pass anyone off lightly. She made time for each member and did so with grace and humor too... She possessed a special quality. One so rarely seen in people. I call it "true compassion for others". 


Connie O. would never take center stage. She would not put herself, her wants, and needs before others. She placed herself in the background encouraging and supporting others. Her love for GOF shined through all her hard work and the tireless hours she spent to make the Garden such a special place. Even her long time friend, Terri, told us how she held Garden of Friendship dear to her heart and how she always spoke about it. 


She loved to write. She never claimed to be a great poet or author but simply enjoyed it. I have been reading some of her works which are beautiful and at the same time powerful. If I were a publisher I would have all these compiled and published into a book. They should be shared with the world. It is no wonder she loved being the Editor of Friendship Times! 


Finally Connie O had what I call "grit". She would not put up with any nonsense and held up to all conflicts that came her way. She was a true soldier in life's battles. She did fight and conquer her cancer once and emerged with grace and dignity. She promoted awareness to raise funds for research and took an active part in "Relay for Life". Knowing full well what the possibilities were of the cancer returning she continued to live through each and every day with love and humor. 


Connie O. may have left our world but not our hearts. She will continue to shine on our Garden Of Friendship and, through the eyes of this reporter, has become the Garden's Special Angel.