You know the feeling like someone’s standing right behind you?
That feeling came over me Sunday evening as I worked on the newspaper. Slowly at first, then more strongly.
I spent the day working on the Jane Wagner story, reading stories, talking to people, and finally, putting ink to paper.
The feeling started as I laid out the front page. And then it got stronger and stronger. As I finished writing the last cutline, the front page was complete, I paused for a moment to admire my work.
And then, I turned around. I assumed one of my friends was watching me work. It is not uncommon when I am working, for someone to pop into the office and look at the screen while I work. In this case, while visiting friends in Florida, working remotely, I thought it was one of them.
But when I turned around no one was there.
I immediately thought of Jane.
I’d like to think maybe she took just a minute of her afterlife, in Heaven, and popped in to take a look at the newspaper.
Growing up Jane’s mom, Joie, was my babysitter. I have many fond memories of Grandma Joie and also fond feelings of admiration for the entire Wagner family. The twins, Maddie and Marnie, were only a year younger than I. I was a freshman, and Carlie a senior, when NRHEG won its second straight girls' state title in basketball in 2014.
Everyone knew Jane. It was a joy to see her. When she would see me in public she would stop me, or holler down the street for me to come talk to her.
She breathed life and love into those around her.
The memories and impact Jane and the Wagner family have created in the minds and lives of those around them are mountainous. May we all strive to be a little more like Jane and bring kindness into the world.
"If tears could build a stairway,and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to Heaven and bring you home again."
Author unknown.
"Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, May looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow."
Author unknown.