LETTERS: JUDY CROW'S SPIRIT INSPIRED ALL OF US

To the editor:

The ink on my journalism degree was barely dry when I arrived in Cape Girardeau in 1977 for my first real job, reporting for the Southeast Missourian. Among the eclectic cast of characters who worked in that glorious old building was a woman who imbued me with more wisdom about the human spirit than anyone has before or since.

Judy Crow had a spirit that soared and a mind that roared. While others of her generation with disabilities were being shuffled off to the kids' wading pool in the back yard, Judy was flying off the high dive-in sequins.

In other words, she would not be denied.

This was no feminist/disabled political posing.

This was real.

This was Judy.

What she taught me is that no matter what your real or perceived affliction may be, you never allow it to rule your life.

That is wisdom, a lesson all should learn, a goal to which each of us should aspire. For me it is a journey rather than a destination. And I thank Judy Crow for helping to illuminate my path.

Thank you, Sam Blackwell, old friend, for your eloquent, loving words for our old colleague and your and Danna's lifelong friend.

May Judy's indomitable spirit continue to inspire us all.

BONNIE MARX

De Soto, Ill.