Yesterday makes three-years since my sister died. Joan Ellen Marinaro was a Special Education Teacher and all of her students loved her dearly. I never realized how much Joan enjoyed teaching until after she was gone and I heard her fellow teachers and students say so many wonderful things about her.Joan passed away suddenly at the young age of 50. Only a few months earlier we had held a surprise 50th birthday party for her and she seemed to be just fine. Life is short, and we never know when it will be our time to go. We should cherish every moment we have here on earth and take the time to enjoy our friends and family. Don't let silly things get the best of you and put you in a bad mood or distance you from your loved ones.
You can read more about Joan on my family website. Joan loved the ocean and she asked to have her ashes scattered there. Here is a poem she wrote 26-years ago.
I Love The Ocean
I love the ocean
Because of her soothing calm,
Mindless rages,
Dogged persistence,
Endless patience,
And everlasting mystery.
She lets you know who is master:
Not a petty supervisor,
Scolding parents,
Impatient mate,
Or ignorant stranger -
But the knowledge, total honesty,
And eternity of nature at its best.
Joan Ellen Marinaro
10/20/1980
This poem is part of a book of poetry by Joan Marinaro, "The Teacher Wore Purple", and may not be reproduced.
Copyright 2006 Marinaro Enterprises
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3 comments:
Thank You for having me here this week.
Mike:
That is a beautiful poem that Joan wrote. That is why she wanted her ashes scattered in a warm ocean. She really did have a love for it. Notice how she calls it "she". That is Joan. Thanks for the memory.
Many people live and die and no one remembers their name. Joan will be remembered by all whose lives she touched. Teacher and poet, two of the things that Jesus loves best.
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