In Loving Memory

Therese passed peacefully on July 9, 2022. Every day since I’ve been reminded of the joy she gave to the world.

Yesterday the quote below appeared in the Center for Action and Contemplation’s morning email. It got me thinking about my mother’s gift of true self and how she so splendidly shared it with others.

“You need to find what is genuinely yours to offer the world before you can make it a better place. Discovering your unique gift to bring to your community is your greatest opportunity and challenge. The offering of that gift—your true self—is the most you can do to love and serve the world. And it is all the world needs.” —Bill Plotkin, Soulcraft

My mother genuinely offered loving hospitality to everyone she encountered. It was her gift. As a teenager, I recall cringing at the way she’d strike up conversations with strangers in the supermarket or gas station. For Therese, every encounter was an opportunity to be pleasant and human and to share her unique gift with those she met. Few persons were strangers to her.

Therese was born on the cusp of the Great Depression, lived through it and World War II, raised eleven children, was the loving partner to two husbands, and lived a purposeful life of self-discovery and gratitude.

Therese Ruddy Longley Anlauf

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” ― Dr. Seuss

And what fun we all had, Therese, with you at the center of the action. Your cheery disposition made difficult times light and celebrations bright and inviting. Thank you for offering your gift of loving hospitality to me, our family, friends, and the world. You are with us forever, Mom. My promise is to treasure your gift of hospitality and pass it along to others.

Love, Steve