I have been thinking a lot about my friend, Tara. I was one of the lucky ones, and I got to meet Tara just over eight years ago. My family had moved over the summer, from what we considered—and likely will always consider—“home” home, from Montana to South Dakota.

I was very sad to move, to leave home.

I took a job teaching a local elementary school because, money, but I was experiencing a wide range of emotions. At my core, I love people; I love friends. During that season of life, though, I was feeling uncharacteristically stubborn and standoffish. I specifically recall walking through town one afternoon and figuratively, quite possibly literally, crossing my arms with the thought, “I don’t need any new friends. I already have plenty of friends.”

When I met Tara, though, those crossed arms unfolded. If you knew Tara, you know this: as soon as you met her, you could not help but want to be her friend. She exuded kindness, gentleness, and love in a way I cannot explain. Her hugs, oh, her hugs. Somehow she could make you feel so incredibly cared for in those hugs. We should all be so lucky to have a friend like Tara.

Until Eternity, beautiful friend.

I saw a cardinal perched that day
One of the first I’d ever seen
Its presence took my breath away
Its posture poised, serene
Its outer beauty, breathtaking
Just like you, my friend
Your death on Earth doesn’t mean
Our connection has to end
Your inner beauty was more glorious
Than even that regal bird
A seed of peace was planted
Spirit announced: “She’s with Me; rest assured”

https://www.kirkfuneralhome.com/obituary/tara-kozak