15 Acts of Love

In 13 days, it will be 15 years since Elira entered my world, the most beautiful girl with big black eyes and pitch dark hair. When I held her in my arms, she stared straight into my eyes. Unlike tiny babies who can barely open their eyes, Elira looked around, she examined the world around her. From that first moment, I knew she was special and she was mine.

Elira was born to defy the world. She broke barriers simply by breathing. She taught lessons about love and human race from the moment she entered our world. Elira captured hearts and minds as a tiny little baby, beautiful little girl, extremely intelligent, talented, charming, and oh so kind. Elira was extraordinary. She absorbed everything at the speed of light. She understood the world beyond her years. She cared for others with all of her heart. In so many letters and cards I have, she writes “I love you with all of my heart.”

To honor Elira’s living “with all of her heart”, I have decided to ask others to help me celebrate her beautiful life on her 15th birthday, February 13. Starting on February 1, if you can, please, help us celebrate Elira’s life with “15 Acts of Love.” Remember, acts of love are not always monetary and not always visible to people around us. Love is found near and far, through stranger and friend. All I ask is that you tell me you are participating in “Elira’s 15 Acts of Love” and send me an image that is the most meaningful to you and if you want, a few sentences to describe your journey (elirasmom@gmail.com). I will include all of them in a new blog post for her birthday on February 13. Feel free to share the “15 acts” with a friend, a class, a team, your workplace. Love always brings people together and Elira loved ALL people.

Thank you in advance to all who will consider helping us remember our beautiful Elira this year.