Adding Memories, Twelve Years Later

I am still in awe of the number of people who entered Haley’s life, some briefly, some had more enduring connections. When she died, I know that my connection with her remained, and still does, just in a different way. My biggest fear was that she would be forgotten, not but those of us closest to her, but by the world around us. I did not expect that over the years, I would learn that others remember and feel connected to her too.

One such soul is my friend, Clayton Hobbs. Clayton works at our Lois Hole Library, and has been there for years, starting his career when Haley was a toddler and sat in his first storytime group. He appears in happy faces only as he was one of Haley’s special hospital visitors and also arranged a tour for us of the then under construction library before she died. When I told Clayton recently that my book was near completion, he sent me the following beautiful reflection about Haley. Twelve years later, and his memory of her is vivid. His written reverie is a gift to me, knowing that she is not forgotten and giving me a unique, additional special memory to add to my memory bank. (In case you’ve seen Inside Out, this memory orb is bright yellow - for joy!). Here is what he wrote:

Haley’s Smile

Haley shared with me a singular gift. She shared with me the world, as she experienced it. Like all great explorers, her tools were those of wonder, curiosity and the thrill of finding out. I consider myself to be the luckiest of souls that she chose to share that adventure with me.

In Haley’s life I have the privilege of being her Library Guy.

We met as most people do, by being in the right place at the right time. Our friendship started with her asking if she could have a book I had just read. I said yes and asked her to tell me about it when she was finished. Her shy smile and quiet “yes” will live in my heart for always.

It was the start of many shared books, movies and interests. As all of those changed with time, Haley continued to share this evolving wonderment with me. I always enjoyed her visits because every time I got to share a smile, a question and a new adventure. The subject never mattered it was always about the fun of finding out.

Her passion for dance always brought a special smile to her face. She couldn’t wait to share with me what she had learned nor how much she enjoyed the freedom it brought her.

Haley’s smile lives on in my heart. Always.

Clayton, the Library Guy :)

Thank you, Clayton - this gesture encourages me to share my memories of others with those closest to them, knowing what a precious gift those “bonus” memories are!