It’s All About Influence

Drew Daywalt is an ingenious author who has written books on the trials and tribulations of crayons. His canny presentation of the relationships between the colors and how they engage the world reflects our interactions with one another.

We’re all a crayon color, a shade that allows us to leave our mark on the world in a way that lets others know we’ve been here, each in our unique way.

We imprint the world with our presence, illustrating who we are where we live and the kind of singular impression we’ve left on those around us. Some are emphatic and intense, lives more noticeable. Some are subdued and muted, known by those closest to them; they haven’t made a big splash in the world, but their influence is powerful in the way they lived.

My friend Jacque would have been a lovely azure blue, a color of calm and brilliance, clearly seen, and deeply appreciated. She died recently, and I’ve been able to consider the impact she had on my life.

She lived with our chaotic family for a period when we moved to Orlando. I was pregnant with our sixth child, but the five we had were rambunctious and fun, and Jacque took it all in stride. She was a calming influence with all of us, a woman who was very present with those around her, who cared about how she interacted with others, who valued the needs of others and sought to meet them.

Jacque had beat cancer once, but it came back with a devastation that was relentless. Her death has impacted many; her loss is deeply felt and grieved by many.

Her memorial service was a picture of her azure blue impact on the lives of those she gently came in contact with. Her family and friends commented on her calm demeanor, her compassion for others, her ability to see the needs of others and do what she could to meet those needs–often without considering the consequences to herself. She leaves behind a husband who adored her, five kids who will deeply miss her love and support, and a multitude of friends who know we’ve all become better people by knowing this amazing woman.

I have confidence that I will see Jacque again one day because she and I both have a relationship with Jesus.

“Jesus told her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in Me will live, even after dying.’” Matthew 11:25

What Jacque knew and lived out loud was that she loved Jesus, and Jesus loved her. That He was her Enough.

One of her favorite songs was “Fires” by Jordan St. Cyr. It was her story.

“I’m changed by Your mercy, covered by Your peace, I’m living out the victory; doesn’t mean I won’t feel the heat. You’ve walked me through fires, pulled me from flames. If You’re in this with me, I won’t be afraid.”

Life is full of the deep reds of fire and pain, the black of smoke and loss. But Jesus is the Shepherd that walks us through the hard times to experience His joy in the moment. He alone is the substance of beauty and color, the Master Artist.

Jacque made her mark with elegance and grace. Indelibly.

What mark are you leaving?

11 responses to “It’s All About Influence”

  1. What a beautiful testimony to a beautiful life. I’m sorry for your loss but grateful for the hope of heaven together. Thank you for sharing the inspiration of her story. 💛

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    1. Thanks, Ter. I’m learning how grief and loss don’t take a holiday, how it sneaks up and bites us when least expected. But God. Always, But God. I’m grateful to have known her–that was my privilege.

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  2. Such a beautiful analogy to use the color of crayons to capture our mark on others & the life of your friend.

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    1. You’re so kind, Trudy! I think we’re really all reflective of colors. I see you as someone bold and bright–maybe emerald green!

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  3. Very inspiring Dayle. Thank you for sharing. Memorial services & tributes to those who have gone before us & who were a reflection of Christ in their lives, are times of self reflection & encouragement to live closer to our shepherd. This was one of those. Love you sweet friend. 💕

    Sent from my iPhone

    >

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    1. Thanks, Kar. It was such a sacred and holy space, grieving and yet grateful. I hadn’t realized how closely related those two are. Love you.

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  4. Rebecca (Cotton) Ehlers Avatar
    Rebecca (Cotton) Ehlers

    Thank you, Dayle! Beautifully written and you captured the essence of Jacque. She was everything you said and more.
    Love to you and your family.

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    1. Honestly, it was a joy and privilege. So much more to say, but I wanted to keep it short so people would actually read who she was and how she impacted others. Thanks for your kind words.

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    2. Thank you, Rebecca, for your kind words. Loss is rough; hope exists. That’s what we all cling to.

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  5. Sending you love and prayers. Can’t wait to meet this lady in heaven. I will be praying for her family.

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    1. Thanks for your kindness, Katers.

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