In January 2012, Mimi's six year old granddaughter, Talia, went to a pottery store to make a 'New Year's' present for her Mimi. Talia slowly perused the shelves to find the perfect gift. When she saw the square plate with the breast cancer symbol on it, she knew it was the perfect choice. Since Talia was young she has always associated her Mimi with the breast cancer symbol. Mimi had a friend who fought breast cancer and she was a proud supporter. Her license plate has the symbol on it and she loves gifts that support this wonderful cause. The pottery helper, otherwise known as Stephanie the 'empress of pottery', asked Talia what paints she would like for her plate. Talia didn't hesitate as she described a unique design. Stephanie showed her how to use a stamping technique to create her goal. Talia wanted a white plate glazed with a pink symbol and a pink stamped design behind a green hand print. Both Stephanie and I were really impressed with Talia's conviction and creativity. Talia said, "Now, whenever Mimi misses me, she can put her hand to mine and I will be there." Mimi, who often travels from Boston to Pennsylvania to visit her three granddaughters, loved her gift. Ironically, Mimi forgot her plate after that visit.
The next time we saw Mimi was after she was diagnosed with breast cancer. This plate had an entirely new meaning. I placed it on the kitchen counter so Mimi would remember to take it home. Talia laid her hand on top of her glazed hand print, looked at me and said, "See, now Mimi will never be alone." God was speaking through her. Talia's words were poignant and wise. I turned and said, "What did you say?" She explained, "When Mimi feels lonely or scared, she can put her hand on mine and I will give her strength. She won't be alone". I'm not sure if it was her innocence, her compassion, or a blend of both with such awareness of the human spirit, but I cried. Mimi cherishes this symbol. She lives for her two children, five granddaughters and soon to be grandson. Although this journey has just begun, Mimi holds her hand to this plate and it fills her up with love.
This little story has inspired so many people in our small circle of life. Our symbol and my newly created mantra... "My hand to yours... your heart to mine" will hopefully be a source of strength for others. We reach our hands out to everyone, especially those in the sisterhood whether you are breast cancer patients, survivors, or loved ones.
~Michelle Minotti Zurinskas
