I apologize for getting a little sentimental here, but I just wanted to take a moment to share my appreciation for Vikki.
I truly enjoyed listening to all of Vikki’s stories, and was so pleased to see that she was in this class as well, so that we could hear more. When she shared her stories and experiences they were always so heartfelt and honest. There was one thing in particular that she said one day, and it has stuck with me since. She was talking about the H1N1 shots, and how she was on the priority list because she was aboriginal. She told us that she struggled with whether or not she should get it before it opened up for everyone else because she felt ashamed of being called a priority. She had also heard a caller on CJOB complaining about aboriginal people and saying that they were probably on the priority list so that they could be the guinea pigs to make sure the shot was safe. And from this came her statement: “I always feel like I have to justify myself”. That one phrase has stuck with me since then. Nobody should have to feel that way – like they have to prove their “worthiness” for anything to anyone. And I am so thankful for this phrase. Vikki’s comment opened my eyes and shed a new light for me. She was someone who was hard-working, kind, responsible – I could go on – and struggled with the knowledge that some people did not think that she, as an aboriginal person, was of worth or deserved kindness in return. I don’t even know if she was aware of how amazing she was. Listening to stories of her life, the things she had overcome, her strength of character and determination to push on inspired me. I had planned on telling her what an impact her stories had on me. Unfortunately we did not have the chance for another conversation, but I think she knows now.
Vikki was amazing. She was so special. And I’m not saying these things because they’re the things to say at a time like this, I’m saying them because they’re true. I think that anyone who had the privilege of talking with Vikki most likely felt very blessed to know her.
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Well said Ashley and well done for taking the time to recognize Vicki and her amazing "take on life." Yesterday's news as a shock to the system and it took till late last evening till the emotions hit. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing her as well as you do but I also was excited to see her in our class. Her loss was a loss for the entire graduate program as i'm sure she would have made great contributions in all her classes.
ReplyDeletewe'll all miss you Vicki!
Thanks for this Ashley.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Ashley, for sharing some more about Vikki for those of us who did not have the opportunity to get to know her as well. Your comments serve as a reminder of the impact someone can have, even without knowing it, and of the importance of making the opportunity to let people know how special they are to us.
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