Nicole Lynn Padilla-Tully

 

OK, I struggle with being able to explain to the world who Nicole Lynn Padilla-Tully was and still is in our hearts. If she touched your life, you would know. I have heard stories from people about how they were affected, I've seen changes in people that they may not know where that feeling, decision or idea came from. That's their story to tell, but she had an amazing impact, even in her passing. I will not even suppose that I am worthy enough to tell her story...

I'm going to start by sharing words that I spoke to her, wrote to her... and try my very best to just let it be about her. I'm biased and that is the complication of offering a glimpse of God's Favorite. It was an honor to have known her, even for such a short time... my life would have been poorer without her love.

Nicole was always noticing the smallest variations in the mood or even the tone or conversation. She was never afraid to question and even accept anything, the truth could always find a safe place in her heart.

She was caring and kind, always offering help to anyone in need, standing up for those who couldn't find a way to stand up for themselves. She gave everything and never once asked to be noticed or praised. She never noticed herself for all the good she did. Loyal, passionate and honorable to a fault.

She was a dedicated mother who never turned down an opportunity to share her kindness and had the most amazing ability to teach those values by words, by example and also by listening to what was needed. She was a confidant and a safe place, not just to her children but to everyone who knew her.

She fought for her family and with them, but she was loved by all. She advocated for everyone and for what she felt was right. In that respect, she deserved the acceptance, validation and love that she sought but never felt like she achieved. Yes, there was much more than she realized.

There was such an amazing mind capable of the deepest thoughts, happy or sad, paradise or problems, sunshine or rain... thoughts and ideas that had value. Yet, she struggled to see how precious, valuable and worthy she was... it's almost impossible to describe. It was inside her... her heart, her mind - the compassion and the energy she shared.

It was her character that defined her worth, the love she gave freely, the things she fought for relentlessly, her will power and determination. All wrapped up in a soul that gave everything to please everyone, often at her own expense. Because the world takes that energy, it's special and doesn't exist everywhere. She put her energy out into the world... and worried how it was received. 

Life will never be the same without her light... unimaginable. 

Well, it's a start... it's hard to describe angels...