Polly
It is likely that you know by now that Polly is my daughter, still is and always will be. For me, the author Mat Johnson got it exactly right: “A man’s daughter is his heart. Just with feet, walking out in the world.” If you have had the good fortune to know her at all, you know that her story cannot be contained in or done justice by any one single voice telling it. So, her portion of the site will have the strongest array of contributors evoking her presence and transmitting her essence. Voices sharing her story will come alive from the array of notes, cards, journals and the various offerings sent in the immediate aftermath of Polly’s death – and will be joined by present-day posts from the scores of folks for who Polly exists as an ever-present part of their lives.
To speak in a common temporal language, Polly Miranda Rogers was a remarkable soul with an innate love for the world around her, whose life journey left an enduring impact on those she encountered. Polly's life unfolded as a narrative of compassion and resilience. In the face of whatever confronted her, large or small, she channeled her energy into creating positive outcomes for every person or situation came her way. Polly was a bright light with a generous spirit, a genuine smile and a happy heart. Adored by all who had the honor of knowing her, Polly loved fiercely in return. Polly's life story is one of inspiration, emphasizing the transformative power of a single individual's dedication to fostering connection, understanding, and appreciation for the world we inhabit.
“I am like a falling star who has finally found her place next to another in a lovely constellation, where we will sparkle in the heavens forever.”
- Amy Tan
Classroom Design Assignment
Among the residual elements of Polly that I can access are various notebooks, journals, sketchbooks and other physical items that help mark her imprint on the world. Passionate as she was about educating herself and becoming a teacher, it is natural that many of those elements speak to one purpose of her life as she saw it.
November 1st, 2024