Never Doubt Who You Are

My sweet friend Layney has been going through some difficult times as of late. A lot of change in a short period of time can be overwhelming. A move, a new job, starting school, being close to family again, yes that takes getting used to and can sometimes be very challenging, and a lot of other small things that go hand in hand with all of these things. Throw 4 kids and a husband into the mix and, well, you get the point.

Anyway...she's been a little down on herself. Thinking she's a bad mom and not smart enough to do biochemistry and not strong enough to handle all the stress of everything she's taken on. The fact of the matter is, she is probably one of the smartest and strongest people I know. She has gotten me through many a hard time with her wisdom, good advice, willingness to listen and big heart. She has picked me up from some of my biggest falls and when she couldn't she laid down with me until I was ready to get up on my own. She is a truly amazing person. Her 4 beautiful kids are smart, fun, witty, talented and very precocious. All of which they get from her.

She isn't afraid to stand up for what she believes is right. Even if she knows she isn't going to be listened too. She is probably one of the most compassionate people I know. I remember once when we were in high school we had to pick up a man from the hospital who had worked with my dad who was dying of AIDS. His name was David and on top of having the AIDS virus he was also very very unkempt. Layne walked over to this man sitting on his hospital bed, put her arms around him, lifted him up off the bed and let him lean on her all the way to the car. I have never ever forgotten that experience. Even I was leary of touching this man and I have always considered myself a very kind person. She didn't hesitate. She is an amazing woman. And I know she is going to be able to touch the lives of many in the new profession she has chosen.

I love you Layne. You are an inspiration to me. Always have been. I know you will pull through this with shining colors and anyone who ever doubted you, including yourself, will feel sort of foolish for ever thinking you couldn't do it. I am not one of those people. Stand strong my friend. You're not alone.