Defining Ourselves
Many have said “we are not defined by our words, but instead by our actions.” As July 4th came upon me, I was well aware of these words, and by the actions of my niece, Haley Sue Pearson. On July 4th, 2020 my niece and her family were at my house enjoying the Michigan lakes, events, and generally having amazing fun. As we enjoyed our time together, I mused about the fiery passion that drove Haley over the years.
A thinker at a young age, Haley would often ask pointed questions when we were talking. She would hug me and ask about anything I was working on, what I was reading, and we would watch some shows and giggle or laugh about anything and everything. The twinkle in her eye was infectious and I would smile often in our discussions. As Haley grew up, I saw this same consistent inquisitive nature drive who she was each day. This was coupled with an idea that things were meant to be done and people meant to be helped.
It is hard to relay the depth of Haley’s commitment to moving forward. She was often challenging herself and those around her while lifting up everyone involved in the process. Some people may have thought she liked to be the center of attention, but I feel strongly that her being the center of attention was because she was just doing what she needed to do, and others came along for the ride. When she was in a play, she gave her all to the character. When she sang you could feel her heart pouring out and her passion exposed. When she was focused on getting something done, you could see her determination and you would know she had decided she would not fail. When teaching others she would find that way to make certain you understood her path, and the path she was showing you to take. To me it is very rare seeing someone so young become committed not only to themselves but to all the people around them. It is my opinion that the world was blessed to have Haley trying to light a path.
On a special night last year in Michigan we watched the sunset and we commented on the powerful imagery that it possesses, I took the title picture as I felt as though Haley was contemplating the world, and how to make it better. Her patient but powerful presence was there and that moment will be with me always. In my opinion, we should ask ourselves daily if are we putting our thoughts into making the world better as she did each and every day and then are we taking the actions to making them a reality. It is a good path to follow.
