remembering ka'ren

when I think about Ka’ren, I think about summer. she embodied the energetic movements of expand and contract. a connector, a mingler. drawing us out of our shells, out into the world. out into the beauty and wonder and mystery of it all. just like summer. 

our beloved Ka’Ren

photo by Graham Snodgrass

if you have been in her presence, then you can testify to her radiance. her expansive joy, friendliness, creativity, wonder, awe, and gratitude. her sense of adventure about even the smallest things. and if you have been in her presence, you also know, it wasn’t a show. she has done the work. her expansion is rooted in depth and wisdom and a life lived. Ka’ren was a genuine joy, out in the world. a teacher and reminder of how to embody joy, choose joy, practice joy, and show up for joy. even amidst life’s seemingly “unjoyous” happenings.

her expansive (and always shared) wonder and gratitude, the generosity with which she gave of herself, was always matched by the the openness and humility with which she received. she shared herself with the world in inspiring ways. when I see her sitting in the room before class, I see tendrils of her light snaking through the room, wrapping around others. introducing herself, striking up conversations, making friends. she not only became a part of our community, she created community. 

just like the sun, Ka’ren embodied a generosity of spirit. giving warmth and light without the need for something in return. without payment, without reciprocity. just for the joy of it. just for the love of it. just for the sake of. just for the benefit of. just like the sun. 

in honor of Ka’ren and in the spirit of summer, we invite you all tap in to these aspects of yourself. to explore the generosity of your own spirit and to create community with us. say hello to your neighbors before class. ask them questions. be open to their answers. share what inspires you. in the spirit of Ka’ren, make a noise when something feels good, when space in your lungs has opened up, when you catch that breath of fresh air. and above all else, in the spirit of Ka’ren, enJOY each moment that life offers you. 

Ka’ren, thank you for showing up at Soulage. and for changing the shape of our community forever. you will forever be missed and will forever be inspiring our pursuit of joy. you are always in the room. 

BY AMANDA BRIODY