We did the shoot in the hotel room at the conference, jammed into a small space, small lighting instruments, a portable backdrop and the hope that I could pull off something magical. During the shoot, Moli played it like the professional she was. Pure character, pure story and I will never, ever forget that smile of nerdy glee as she put on the finger armor and clasped her hands together, manically. She loved the role she was playing, she loved the art we were creating and most importantly, she had faith in me. I must have let it slip that I wasn’t confident in what I was doing, both in the session and the conference. It was my first year being a teacher and boy was I scared, yet proud. She took me by both shoulders, looked into my eyes and said: “You truly are an artist and have such a gift. I am envious of you. You belong here, you belong doing what you love to do and I’m so excited to create art with you.” I about fell over and my eyes flooded with tears of gratitude.

We spoke over the years, many times and came up with concepts and more stories to tell. Yet I never engaged. She was willing and ready to leap – I didn’t. Because as much as I knew the art would be wonderful, I was so stuck in a mindset of profitability. I wouldn’t spend the resources on a shoot, unless I knew I could somehow make a return on it – financially. It took me too long to understand that the simple JOY that I felt working with such a beautiful soul, was return enough. Moli tragically passed away last month in a fatal car accident. She was a brilliant performer, artist and such a kind and honorable human being. No more time for art, no more need for battles of conscience and finances. This piece is our final story.

Live for today and the promise of what YOU will make for your tomorrow. Live your life to fullest, with no more time for fear, doubt, or excuses. Find the ways to bring your JOY to the forefront and let it spread like a fire to inspire all those around you that cross your path. Moli – I am honored to know you and so incredibly thankful for your kind words and inspiration, so long ago. We were published my friend, one last time and the honor is all yours. I know that I will see you again and when I do, I look forward to sharing our stories and creating more art.

Rest well.

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