A Note to Aunt Dottie

Recently I wrote a blog article about my aunt, Doris V. Richardson, who was an educator with the Midland Independent School District for 36 years. Aunt Dottie’s story is rich with the wisdom and inspiration that I will draw from as we do the work of Freewill Advocates of Midland, Inc.

We plan to develop projects and write articles that highlight the power of family legacy and the wealth that awaits us as we discover family history.

After I posted her story, I received a text from our Secretary/Treasurer, Phyllis Lewis. She had penned her thoughts about the impact of Aunt Dottie’s life upon her own. I am so happy that Phyllis was eager to share her thoughts in this blog. Here are those heartfelt words that are truly a gift of honor.

“If I were to pen a note to Mrs. Doris Vanessa Richardson, it would read something like this:

“Dearest Aunt Dottie,

I had never met anyone like you. You always had such a real way of reaching out and touching the lives of those around you. Your kindness and honesty reached so far into the community. Your practical way of going about helping others was rivaled by none. This heart is so very grateful to have known you, and for the impact that you had on my life.” (Phyllis Lewis)

While researching the topic of legacy, I discovered a powerful article written by Susan V. Bosak, the Founder, Lead Educator/Strategist, and Caretaker of the Legacy Project (LegacyProject.org). I think the following excerpt from Ms. Bosak’s article, “What is Legacy?” reveals why a focus on the beginning leads to an experience of the richest now.

“Where do you think it's best to plant a young tree: a clearing in an old-growth forest or an open field? Ecologists tell us that a young tree grows better when it's planted in an area with older trees. The reason, it seems, is that the roots of the young tree are able to follow the pathways created by former trees and implant themselves more deeply. Over time, the roots of many trees may actually graft themselves to one another, creating an intricate, interdependent foundation hidden under the ground. In this way, stronger trees share resources with weaker ones so that the whole forest becomes healthier. That's legacy: an interconnection across time, with a need for those who have come before us and a responsibility to those who come after us.” (Susan V. Bosak)

Phyllis Lewis is the Secretary/Treasurer for Freewill Advocates of Midland, Inc.

Aunt Dottie is ready for Sunday morning service at Mt. Rose Full Gospel Baptist Church in Midland, Texas. (2011)