A Widows Pursuit of Happiness
Dream Walking in Jan's Memorial Garden
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes, 5 seconds
On the morning of July 4, 2023, while taking a walk, I pondered what would have happened if one word in the Declaration of Independence had been different. Specifically, the sentence “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men people are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness.”
Although it may seem strange, starting my walk thinking about inalienable rights, it made sense. Things could have turned out differently if everyone had equal rights and opportunities throughout history. Though I am saddened by the loss of Jan, I am grateful for my freedom and try to live life to the fullest. As a widow, finding happiness without our loved ones can be difficult. However, a fortuitous encounter with a couple on my route may have given me some insight.
While walking around Hanson Park and along the Rahway River, I saw a couple sitting on Jan’s memorial bench. They looked familiar, so I slowed down and greeted them with a cheerful “Have a happy day!” The woman was drawing a beautiful stained-glass design, and I couldn’t help but stop and compliment her work. We chatted about how lovely the park had become, and they expressed their admiration for the garden and wind sculpture. They even thought we might have met at a park fundraiser before. As we continued talking, I mentioned they were sitting on one of Jan’s memorial benches and pointed it out to them. Seeing their smiles as they read the inscription on the bench warmed my soul.
Finding joy in helping others has always been a fulfilling experience for me. Today, I had the opportunity to brighten someone’s day, which made my heart swell with gratitude. As I walked away from Jan’s memorial, I reflected on the effort to create it and was reminded to appreciate each moment of my life.
The Jan Lilien Education Fund sponsors ongoing sustainability and environmental awareness programs. Gifts made this month; I will match dollar-for-dollar. All donations are tax-deductible.
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Working with the Hanson Park Conservancy, we have taken significant steps in building Jan's Memorial Triangle Garden at Hanson Park including installing the Wind Sculpture.
