My dear friend Colleen suffered a massive stroke on Tuesday and her life is now in the balance. She was one of those people who went unnoticed by many, but anyone who truly knew her realized what a great human being was in their presence. For years she taught children with handicapping conditions and could relate to them on a level that made them feel special and valued. Always in the background she was relatively shy and never tried to steal the limelight. If you want to truly understand friendship you could uncover its deepest meaning by talking to those who knew and loved her. Always kind and gracious she had the ability to make you feel special. It has been a treasure to know her these many years, and if she lives the road will be most difficult. I only hope that those who she has given so much to realize it is time to emulate her giving and kindness.