she laid her gloves down for the last time

"on the death of a friend,

we should consider that the fates through confidence

have devolved on us the task of a double living,

that we have henceforth to fulfill the promise of our friend's life also,

in our own, to the world."

(thoreau)

this morning i woke up to the news that my friend greta had laid down her fighting gloves for the last time in her long fight against melanoma.

in her husband wallace's words, "greta put her fighting gloves down after a long and courageous battle with melanoma. she passed with the same gracious dignity with which she lived life. please keep our family in your prayers."

there are many things that i could write about how i am feeling and the complete sadness that immediately washed over me as soon as i read those words. and maybe those words will someday fill this space.

but for now, i just ask that you send your love to wallace and traz and their family and friends as they find their way forward without her physically being with them each day.

she was one hell of a fighter, and i will wear my gloves they gave me in her honor and continue the fight.

much love and prayers to their family, i know that i will never forget her or her friendship, i know there are countless others in this world that are feeling the same tonight. it is very clear that she was loved by so, so many.

she will never be forgotten. that i know for sure.

anywhere i fight, she will fight right along with me.

she gave me the best gloves to get in the ring with after all.

i will give it everything i have got, and i will take comfort in knowing she will always still be in my corner of the ring.

goodbye my friend, you will be missed more than you know.

xo