Passing of a Gem

I learned this morning that a wonderful woman and advocate of education here in Logan, UT died yesterday. Barbara Hales, also affectionately known as the Book Lady, was struck and killed by a car in a parking lot (see article). I saw her just 2 weeks ago in church. She sat behind me and smiled at my baby. She was a small-in-stature, but larger-than-life woman who was a lifelong advocate of education through reading. She was a retired professor at Utah State University and was responsible for the implementation of numerous reading programs in Cache Valley. She collected children's books and sold them every year from her garage.

Her impact, measured on a global scale, may seem small, but I can honestly say that she is the kind of person that isn't forgotten. She radiated light to all she was acquainted with, and was such an amazing example of how to make a real difference without making a scene (although she may have made them from time to time - she seemed just feisty enough). She chose to make a difference through continued commitment, dedication and effort to a cause. I am inspired by her to pick something, even just one thing (such as reading in her case) where I can also make a difference. Sometimes we think too big, and believe that if we don't make it big, or if the dollar amount or people we help isn't big enough that it isn't worth the effort. That is a mistake.

If every parent who cared was willing to do something small, education would be different. It would change our schools, our community and our nation. Our children would be raised to believe they were also capable of making good and great things happen. And by any standard, that would be the best education of all for every child.

Barbara Hales made great things happen. She will be remembered, and she was loved.