Just this week, a friend from The States found this page. I feel terribly for your loss. I was under some projects to write a letter to someone who had immense impact in my life. I was supposed to call and read to her. **

Dear MOM,

How are you? It has been 20 years since I met you. The first time was when I was 16; the second time, I was 21 (we were both amazed how time flew by) and I am 36 now.

From the very first day you gave me that big hug, you were never out of my thoughts and my mind. I am not sure how we fell out of contact. I still remember the emotion I felt that 2 or 3 times you replied to my letter and those 2 or 3 times I made the international call, crying on my side.

I know I’ve told you many many times that how grateful I am to have you in my life. Though the time we spent together was very brief (total less than one month), you gave me the most powerful gift in life, teaching me that I could always be the one giving myself the strength and love I need.

Through my teens and early 20s, I took your advice; I hugged myself whenever I felt sad or fragile or lonely or afraid. I followed your instruction, closing my eyes and pictured you were right where I was. 

Then, at some point, I noticed that I didn’t do it that much anymore. I found the strength and love within myself. I came to understand that I was hugged and protected all the time.

Now, I am 36. I am strong, loving and resourceful. I have a lot of life experiences worth sharing with others. Last year, I set the goal to pass on the HUG to others. I am doing my best. Sometimes, people appreciate it; sometime, no. Nevertheless, I am always grateful for being an abundance person and able to share.

I am passing on your hug. 

I don’t know whether you’ve passed on. I guess I didn’t write that much to you anymore was because I wouldn’t want to know.

Yet, you are always, always with me. And I am passing on your hug and I will do it for the rest of my life.

XOXOXO,
Joanna

I had no idea your beautiful mother had passed and am so sad to learn of this news now.  Just a few days ago I was thinking of her.  I will always fondly remember Despina (and your family) from my days of visiting Ambrosia pizza as a young child with my parents to years later having coffee with her in her home or at church.  Memory Eternal dearest Despina. You were very loved by many!

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Despina Smyrnis

August 15, 1928 – June 23, 2018

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