Thursday, February 25, 2010

A Tribute for Kerry

A note of love from all the goosies.

Being a writer means being simultaneously thrilled and terrified—thrilled at the prospect of creating something out of nothing, and terrified at the prospect of creating something out of nothing; thrilled when you lay your hand on a stack of papers which signifies completion, and terrified that you must now show that stack of papers to someone.

A quote from the Talmud states: “Every blade of grass has its Angel that bends over it and whispers, ‘”Grow, grow.’”

Just such an angel for LDS writers is Kerry Blair.

She inspires us with her own writing which is always well-crafted and insightful. Her writing carries aplomb for the English language, and a sensibility about the human soul. Especially in her essay work she is a keen observer of human nature, and can easily take us from gaiety to contemplation.

Kerry is a “giver” She believes not only in the power of the written word, but that that the creative gift to fashion those words into uplifting and engaging stories is a gift from God. She gives to all of us a sense that—We can do it! That this work is important! To never stop trying to find an outlet for our voices! She is one of those wondrous Storymaker cheerleaders.

On a personal note, Kerry took me under her wing when I was a fledgling terrified writer—giving me encouragement and guidance—cheering me on.

I am so grateful to have this opportunity to thank Kerry Blair for being an angel—for whispering to me and to all of us, “Grow, grow.”

6 comments:

Anna Buttimore said...

Amen to that, Gale! Kerry is not only one of the best writers I know, but also one of the best people.

On my desk in front of me I have a little woven picture which was a gift from Kerry. On the back she has written "This is the Hopi storyteller Kachina. To remind you to work on your books!" She inspires me every day. And Kerry, I am working on my books. 25,000 words in just the last two months.

Jennie said...

To so many of us Kerry is tops. Over the years she has shared more than her wonderful books, but has given us each the sense that she is our best friend. She has brought out a spirit of generosity in others and at the same time made all of us she has touched believe we can be the best. As long as I have known her she has been fighting some tough battles, and though she has taken some terrible blows, she is and always will be the champion.

Stephanie Black said...

Beautifully said, Gale, and I appreciated Anna's and Jennie's comments as well. Kerry truly has a gift for blessing the lives of everyone who comes in contact with her--I've felt it many times myself and am grateful to know her.

Michele Ashman Bell said...

I have also been one who has benefited from Kerry's nurturing love and support. She has touched so many lives. I feel fortunate to know her and am continually surprised by her amazing spirit, side-splitting wit and enormous heart.
Love you Kerry!

Jeri Gilchrist said...

Kerry is one of the most incredible women I know. She has been such a help and support and has been an example to me since the moment I met her. If it weren't for her, I not only would have never tried to get a book published, but she has also been there for me through some of the most difficult times of my life. Her friendship has been a tremendous blessing in my life. I sure love you, Kerry!

Cheri J. Crane said...

Kerry possesses a gift for always knowing what to say and when. I will be forever grateful for her encouragement during a particularly difficult time in my life. And for her priceless sense of humor.

Her books are among my favorites, and she continues to be an inspiring example to us all.

Love you tons, Kerry!