On Saturday night at our Nashville (in)RL meet-up, I had the honor of introducing Sara’s Story to a group of 50 women.
Today, it is my honor to introduce it to you.
But before you watch it, let me tell you a little about Sara.
Sara was by far the most incredible woman I have ever known because of her passion for the Lord and commitment to community.
Before the effects of her debilitating disease prevented her from even leaving her condo, Sara was a magazine writer, a memory keeper and a singer. She loved spending time with her family and friends. Her life was normal, busy, full.
Over time, as the disease took over, Sara’s life slowed down. But even though her circumstances limited her physically, she continued to passionately create community.
Her blog, Gitzen Girl, became her outlet for connecting with the “outside,” and her words inspired thousands from around the world.
I got to know Sara first through my blog comments, then through email, then the phone and Skype. And by the grace of God, we spent a few glorious hours together in person in August 2011.
Sara became like a sister to me.
She was a kindred spirit who understood me when I couldn’t clearly express myself.
She was the kind of friend everyone longs to have.
She was *soul* beautiful.
She understood that community was about relationship.
Sara went to heaven on September 24, 2011. (If you haven’t done so in the past, read these moving words shared by her friend Shannon at her wake.) Though her time here on earth was shorter than I (selfishly) would have liked, her impact was immeasurable.
So it seemed perfect that, as the DaySpring (in)courage team brainstormed what (in)RL would look like, and the stories that would be shared, Sara’s name immediately came up. (Thank you DaySpring!)
Today, please find 30 minutes to sit and watch this movie of women sharing about Sara, and her demonstration of community done right.
You will be glad that you did.
Be sure to also check of the “Choose Joy” printables inspired by Sara, as well as other (in)RL resources here.
Humbly,
Jessica
ABOUT JESSICA TURNER
Jessica Turner blogs on The Mom Creative about motherhood,
