Welcome to Three Things - a Friday update before we head off into the weekend.
This space is to tell you about things that catch my attention, as well as introduce you to some of my favorite nonprofit or fair trade organizations.
Leslie passed away last week. She filled the world with joy and beauty. She was full of grace and love. Even in pain, battling cancer, and savoring every day, she still found a way to love others. She didn't go small and stay close to family, she continued to pour her love and the fullness of who God is into the world.
She might be the only person I've met in real life to "do this race well." I hope to love others half as well, to make art that celebrates who God is, to bring people together for the sake of simply celebrating what we have in common. She is with the Lord and the world is a grayer place. But for those who knew her, we can try our best to live by her example and be a source of light and hope to those around us.
Bruce Herman painted this portrait of her and it reveals who she was so well.
Leslie leaves behind a husband (Ned) and three high school(ish) daughters. Leslie and Ned started Square Halo Books. They publish thought-filled books on the faith, often from an arts perspective. Leslie was a poet. Just last year she released a book of poetry, which you can find here. Some of her friends got together and recorded her poetry. You can watch it on the Rabbit Room website.
She also wrote essays in several publications. A local bookstore in PA did a lovely write-up on them. You can order any of those books from Hearts and Minds.
Square Halo is also working to compile a collection of her writings. If you want to help with that, please send a check to: Square Halo Books, P.O. Box 18954, Baltimore MD 21206, and put “Leslie’s Next Book” in the memo line.
My friends Shawn and Maile spoke with Erin Bartles about her writing career and rhythm (and how we cannot do it all!) They have a great discussion on some of my frustrations (shall we say) around Christian publishing. A great discussion starter.
We are almost done with Rennervations on Disney+. Actor Jeremy Renner takes bigger vehicles (think city bus or tour bus) and repurposes them in ways that help local nonprofits all over the world. It is remarkable to see what he and his team can pull off and is a really good reminder to focus on small ways we can help each other.
Leslie’s family pulled together the music she posted during her time with cancer. It has been on almost nonstop for me. A truly great collection.
Journal Prompt: How do you want to be remembered? When people gather together - what do you want them to say? Are you living your life in a way that aligns with this intention? If not, what can you change? | Is there someone who has already passed on you wish you could say things to (good or bad)? Write them a note in your journal.
We often only say sweet things about people after they pass away. Write a note to someone who is still living and, if you feel led, send it. Let’s stop waiting until people are gone to say what they mean to us.
Until next week, be well friends,
Amanda