A Serendipitous Meeting
Today I give gratitude for a very special woman who came into my life in an unusual way. About thirty years ago I had a camping display in the General Relief Society Building. Along with the display I was asked to speak at a gathering of sisters. As I sat on the stage waiting for my turn to present, a small folded piece of paper with my name on it made its way up to me. I opened the note and it said, “Hi I’m Phyllis Marriott and I want to meet you.”
Phyllis’s Impact
After the program I had the opportunity of meeting and talking with Phyllis. She was the President of American Mothers Association. She also lived in Washington , D.C. where her husband, Russell, a bother of J. Willard Marriott, worked with the Marriott Corporation. Phyllis was the most delightful woman. She had a smile infused with a spark of fun. I did not see Phyllis often but every time I did, I enjoyed her love of life and her desire to reach out to others and share in their lives.
Phyllis’s Legacy and Influence
Phyllis and her husband had a home on Lake Winnipesauke in New Hampshire . If you ever saw the movie On Golden Pond you know where she lived. I will never forget visiting her. She took me around the lake and introduced me to all her interesting friends.
This week I received an email from Dava, a daughter-in-law, who said that Phyllis was going down hill. She is now in her late 80’s and is confined to her bed. On Monday I spent some time with her. She was as delightful as ever.
Thanksgiving Gratitude
This Thanksgiving I am grateful for this grand woman who reached out to me and said, “I would like to be your friend.” Thank you, Phyllis, for your inspiration and for showing how gracious you are in all that you do. I will always remember the fun that you put into every day. I will remember all the American mothers that you brought honor and love to. You are and always have been a grand lady.
