Lasting Impressions

I want to tell about somethings that people at the viewing and funeral said to me about Dad.

Diane Butler told me that she thought a lot of him and he helped her so much in the library at San Rafael Jr. High. She said that if it wasn't for him she wouldn't have most of the stuff in the library. Diane said she would tell me someday of the experiences she had with him and what a help he was. (I'll let you know what else she says.)

Judge Scott Johansen told me that he really appreciated everything about Rue and that he was a great man. While Scott was the county attorney, sometimes he had to miss Commission meeting but always listened to the recordings of the meetings later. Many times Dad could have said some negative comment and Scott said many times Dad would have been justified in doing so. But Dad never did. In fact, Dad defended Scott many many times. He never said anything bad even when he could have.

Wendy Black came into Kent's office a couple of weeks ago and said how sorry she was to hear about Dad. She said he was the Principal when she was in 8th grade at Canyon View Jr. High. Wendy's dad died when she was 8 years old and "Mr. Ware" told Wendy many stories about her dad. She said he was the only one who would do that and she appreciated it so much. She loved hearing stories about her father and talking to someone outside her family who knew him in a different way than family did.

I thought those stories said a lot about Grandpa's character. Especially Judge Johansen's. Even if you are justified in saying something negative or demeaning to another, don't do it. Especially if they are your friend, family or co-worker.

I've thought alot about this and I'm sure Dad never imagined that not saying something mean about Scott when he could have, would be THE experience that stuck with Scott all these years. What will people say about us when we are gone? What is the lasting impression we are leaving with those we associate with? Are we living in a way where our children will be proud of us when we are gone? Are we living in a way where our children can be proud of us now?

I am proud that Rue Ware was my dad. I am proud that throughout his career he acted respectful and considerate of others. Yes, there are those times where his temper got the best of him, where he had to stand up for WHAT was right, not for WHO was right.

Hearing these stories inspires me to want to be better. To be the best Julie that I can be, the best wife, mom, grandma, neighbor, friend. I want my children to be proud of me, not only when I'm gone but now while I'm still here.