thunder.stormbefore.com

The thunderstorm before the calm. I suppose life is like that. We face challenges, and for the most part we learn and are stronger after they roll through. Many of our most meaningful accomplishments come as a result of a fight, or at least after some work. But it sure is hard to see while the storm is raging.

Our first breath is a struggle. Sometimes we suffer, only to take our last. But in the long run it’s not really the challenges that matter, nor the accomplishments. It’s our response that defines us; the choices we make during the storm. The destruction from the thunderstorm is ultimately balanced by the nurturing rain, and the calm that follows can be a place of new perspective and renewal.

This Christmas, we reflect on the life of a beautiful soul. Sherri’s thunderstorm has passed; ours continues for a little longer. But the Christmas story reminds me to be patient for the calm. When love is born it produces a light we may choose to follow; and peace comes from a deliberate journey toward it.

Let’s see what the New Year brings.

Blessings,
Dave, Zia and Anji Cooper

Special ornaments.

On Saturday Dec 5, 2015 at 3;30 pm we will hold a memorial service for Sherri at Bryn Athyn Cathedral (900 Cathedral Rd., Bryn Athyn PA 19009). The service will be livestreamed. During preparations, it has been shaping up more like a celebration of life than a farewell event. There are so many people involved, I can’t possible know or acknowledge you all. Here are a few examples, though. Special music will start at 3 pm, featuring cellist Tom Rosenberg, a friend of Sherri’s since second grade. Additional music selections during the service will be performed by Sherri’s friends and former students. The service will be conducted by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Rose, who has spent many hours with Sherri and me over past 2 years, talking over important stuff about life. Yup, a valued friend.

There will be a reception immediately following the service, at Bryn Athyn College’s Doering Center for Science and Research. The College is hosting this event in Sherri’s honor, and Dr. Allen Bedford, Dean of Academics, will facilitate people who may want to say a few words. Several adminstration and faculty members intend to reflect on Sherri’s impact at the College. Friends of ours. The College has also established a memorial trust that will encourage faculty and student research. Information on how to contribute to the Sherri Rumer Cooper Research Fund can be found on the Support Page. Might as well call it the friends of Sherri Cooper fund.

All of these meaningful tributes to Sherri’s life are but the tip of the iceberg. There are event organizers, volunteers, walking buddies, meal providers, pay-it-forward cleaning and yard crews, afternoon visitors, advisors, sponsors, pen pals. People have covered for us, and anticipated what we might need. And you don’t seem to expect anything in return.

Thanks friends. We are honored to know you.