Taking the next step- Remembering Lynn Graham

I remember the first time I saw Lynn,
coming into a Peace Fresno meeting,
maybe twelve years ago.
I noticed her 64 Chevy 300 Malibu sedan just as quickly.
I wish she had never sold that car.
And I wish she was still here with us.
I suspect a lot of people who knew Lynn remember meeting her for the first time,
and wish for another chance to talk with her.

Memories of experiences, discussions, anecdotes, and insights, all mix with
wonder and astonishment, when you take stock of what Lynn Graham did with her life.
Her accomplishments as a world class athlete should be celebrated and long remembered
in the central valley and the many communities Lynn touched and loved in her life.
We were all part of her world, and she was our champion all along.

Lynn got around. Many who knew her, were able to remark following Ellie Bluestein’s
notice in the Community Alliance have already testified in ways I could not adequately voice.

But I’ll tell you this- Lynn Graham was extremely special.

Lynn had a monstrous compassion streak matched only by her real and immediate response to situations that called for help.

What truly set her apart, when she felt badly for someone, she did something about it.

She took the next step.

Above and beyond the years spent dealing bread and pastries across the Food Not Bombs table,
she also took responsibility for the needs of people unable to do for themselves.
Regularly delivering food to those she knew at their place of residence,
very often in the worst possible environs.
While we know who and where some of those folks live,
there are some in extreme need we still need to locate.

On October 18th, in Roeding Park, where Lynn gave so much aid, compassion, guidance, and bread to those who came through the line at Food Not Bombs, we will celebrate and remember the tremendous service and friendship she provided to so many. There will be food there, as there often was when people saw Lynn.

There will be singing and rejoicing, as there often was when people saw Lynn, in the midst of loss.

The Raging Grannies will be there to send off their fallen comrade.

Those who wish to share their stories and impressions of Lynn will be encouraged and heard.

When someone leaves this life behind, it seems the hole they leave behind says the most about them. That contest may be over.

Lynn graham will be missed.

Her memorial should not be.

GUARANTEED -The Ragin’est FNB event ever!

October 18, 2014 1:00 PM at Roeding Park’s Eucalyptus Grove