Dear Mel...

Dear Mel,

Thank you. Somehow these words seem to lack the amount of emotion, humbled gratitude, and enriched soul that is behind them. I came to San Diego to pursue my passion, to change who I was into someone who was working for a greater good, and to see the lives of the women I work with restored and renewed. And in the process I met you. I met a woman who shared another passion of mine, music. I came into your world with such excitement, an outsider looking in, and quietly watching your friends join you for every opportunity to love you and support you. I remember thinking, “I want her life.”

A life filled with music, events and changing the world through the help of a little spoon flooding over with hearts. As I got to know you I saw your dedication to encouraging others and witty personality come through in every moment; never being disrupted by judging thoughts or negative energy. In San Francisco I always felt a little lost in the crowds. My love for the beautiful city was of family, a few solid friends and the richness and culture that came from that city.

But here, I’m no longer lost. I am remembered, invited and welcomed. You have been part of my happiness. With tears of gratitude I write this to build you up and encourage you for being who you are and choosing to accept all people no matter who they are. From the moment we met I felt a connection with you and saw a sincerity in you that I admired.

As I watched your community come together for a night to celebrate you, Vallie and Cat, I realized that you are part of a large and beautiful family. And you have let me sit in and see glimpses of this family work, sing and eat together. Thank you for the opportunity to no longer feel like an outsider in your world. We have our own moments now that we will share together for years to come. We have laughed many times in the past months and you have believed in me enough to share Feeding The Soul with me. We shared the Freedom Awards together, chowed down on cheesecake at the Living Room and sent e-mails back and forth that had me laughing out loud at work. I am honored to have met you and sincerely grateful for you embracing all my colors and encouraging me to continue the work I am doing in San Diego.

Friend, I pray you find strength in all you do and take refuge in your family, community and friends when you go through hard times. Allow us to build you up and bless you when we can. I write this not solely to you, but to those who read it to see what a wonderful example of love you are.

Katy thinks you’re a “firework” and so do I.