“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of those depths.” – Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.” – Winston Churchill
“I say to people who care for people who are dying, if you really love that person and want to help them, be with them when the end comes close. Sit with them – you don’t even have to talk. You don’t have to do anything but really be there with them.” – Elisabeth Kulbler-Ross
*
In her safekeeping (For Carly-Jay)
On that freezing
winter’s night
I struggle to
stay on path
fighting the winds
I hear the howling
all too close at hand
it is the darkest of night
even the moon has
turned her face
I am alone
frightened
the way ahead
into the unknown
unprepared
my eyes seek
respite
lifting my head
in the storm
a window
in the distance
illuminating the way
unconditional love
inviting – welcoming
offering safe harbour
the guardian
reaches out – her
voice gentle, calm
reassuring
there is no judgment here
she knows intimately
its weariness, each toll
her embrace
I am safe in her keeping
steadfast she escorts me
until I am at last
at rest
*
Webster defines courage as: mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty. To possess such courage, is rare. To find it in one so young as Carly-Jay Metcalfe, is remarkable. To have someone like her come into your life, I promise, will illuminate even the darkest of corners. She can inspire like few others. I am indeed privileged to know her. A writer, a speaker and a champion to those whom she reaches out to in the darkest days of their lives.
Carly-Jay knows death on a first name basis. She has navigated in its shadows since first drawing breath. Yet instead of running from it, she faces it full on to guide others. Please, for your own sake, get to know this amazing young woman. She has so much to offer all who open their mind and heart.
In addition to my meager words, I offer links to explore the world of Carly-Jay, get to know her. Death touches each of us and running from it can only harm us. Enlightenment is the key to life. Carly-Jay is the keeper of the key.
http://www.carlyjaymetcalfe.com
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYaBlW9sSYQ
*
Bisous,
Léa
poetry, photos and musings oh my! 
This is beautiful Lea, and a precious tribute to Curly-Jay, a very courageous woman with so much to offer. I have heard her talk before; it bowled me over then as it did just now. xxx
Thank you Christine. She is so amazing, my words seem to small and simple. She has been such a wonderful friend and I am fortunate to call her that. xxx
A priceless gift 😊 xxx
She is! But so are you! 🙂 xxx
And you too Lea, very precious xxx
Merci beaucoup! xxx
xxx
xxx
it takes much to sit and walk that last path down with someone… love the quotes – esp. the one by churchill… we tend to talk too much and listen way too seldom…
I couldn’t read this, take it in and not comment … Lea, you have touched my soul deeply and I’ve so much gratitude that you have come into my life. You’ve taught me so much – big lessons in humility, grace and courage. Big love to you, and know we are never far apart XO
Inspirational and moving Lea. Thank you for posting~
Cindy, Carly is about the most courageous person I know. I’m glad if you found her inspirational and moving. I certainly do. The numbers were very low but due to the discomfort many have with her subject, I am not surprised. Thank you Cindy! xx
Stunning words for an amazing soul, I just read carly’s piece on twirling, she really does bucket loads of talent. A bright burning light and oodles of courage.
We often hear of someone who so unique and amazing but Carly-Jay is that and so much more! I’m glad you have found her.