A Bright Light

Sandra Sherrill was a client and student of mine for many years. She loved my massages and was a huge Nia fan. When we were homebound due to the Coronavirus, she enjoyed my online Nia and Ageless Grace classes. 

After every massage, Sandra said it was her best medicine and better than going to the doctor. I will surely miss seeing her smiling face come through my door at Body Elemental—and her surprisingly strong hugs before she left. I was fortunate and felt honored to give her a massage earlier this month—the same week she transitioned.

Usually the first person in my Nia classes at the Alexander YMCA, Sandra was always ready to strike up a conversation with any student who walked into the room. She welcomed new students and helped me build a supportive and nurturing community in my Y classes. I will never forget those smiling eyes of hers, keeping me calm and confident whenever I felt nervous while teaching. I feel her light still shining through all the memories I have of her amazing presence and how she was in the world.

Sandra loved many musicians—Dolly Parton, in particular. Sandra liked “Travelin’ Thru” a song written by Dolly I found for her birthday years ago. Dolly sings about Jesus in a way that lifts my spirits without feeling preachy. I re-used this song and a bit of dolphin energy (Sandra loved the beach) to ease our loss this month. I hope you enjoy the video.