For Deb, always

It was October 2018 when I flew to Florida to work on my play “Stalking” which was a finialist in the first Modern Works Festival at the Urbanite Theater.

I walked excitedly to a cafe to meet two of the theater board members; Deb Shoss and Nanette Crist. Within five minutes of meeting I was mesmorized. It is always (at least for me) a surreal moment of time when my work is discussed with interest and a passion for the words, which I only think I have.

It was an amazing experience being part of the festival, and what followed were so many delightful emails between us. Inspiring letters about writing, theater, love and most importanty - how to live your life. Later Deb was diagnosed with cancer and through every step, her emails were full of beauty and a bold, loving acceptance of simply everything.

Nanette sent me a note this morning, to say that Deb had passed away this weekend. My heart bowed in respect, followed quickly by a flood of determination to embrace my life, in the manner which Deb had. I believe living your life, following a death, is the most honorable thing you can do.

When something happens with that particular play, it will be for her, Libbie and Nanette. They believed in the power of those words, and encouraged me to dig deep, to not be scared of unlit rooms and show the spirit to enlighten and bring thought and change.

Deb, this is what you brought into my life and I am honored to have been connected and inspired by you. I love you, and in my missing of you, I become stronger to be me. You would tell me to do that, when you knew I was hiding. I promise no more hiding Deb. Thank you.

These are the final words on an email from Deb to a group of us, which I will treasure, received April 7.

Live your life.
Know I love you and know having you in my life is such a gift!
Take good care, dear ones.
Love, Deb