Saturday, October 19, 2024
Q: What 3 words best describe Cheryl and why?
A: Celebration of my cousin, Cheri
By Carolee Fagent
There are three words I would use to describe my cousin, Cheri- loyal, mischievous, and raucously fun! Okay, that was four, but she was raucously fun! I spent time with Cheri when we were kids, as our mothers were sisters, and the Texan Herricks would come visit the California Shepphirds for some summer fun at Disneyland. She and I were about the same age, which is a treasure for cousins, and with all of us cousins together, there were ten of us from two families! Needless to say, our mothers (who wanted to spend time together) were always corralling us, yet we were up to mischief!
Cheryl always had great ideas, and I can remember jumping on hotel beds with her, and running through hotel corridors with the youngers in tow! One vivid memory is her mom, my Aunt Ann, chasing us around with a hairbrush to discipline us after some antics.
As we grew up, and family dynamics changed, I didn’t see Cheri as much as I would have liked to. But, when we were together for a family event, she still had that smirk, and sparkling eyes, as well as her inspirational laugh, and we would pick up right where we left off as kids.
At this stage of my life, where loss of family and friends, as well as distressing illnesses can change joy in a moment, I believe Cheri is leaving us with the message to continue to celebrate life, look for diverse details, and rejoice in health, sight, and being with those you love.
Joy is one of the most prominent themes in the Bible, God’s plan since creation has been to bring us joy and peace. As I picture Cheri in heaven, I can hear her laugh, and move with joy, probably creating art!
I close with a Bible verse as a toast to Cheryl for the gift she was to me as a cousin:
Romans 15:13
“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit, you may abound in hope.”
