A Tribute to Marilyn Murray
by Kim Benoy
It has been very difficult for me to get this started, however, I will do my best to convey my experiences with Marilyn and how she has touched my life.
I did not know Marilyn for very long, I met her through my experiences with MAHA both at shows and during my time with The Leader . My first contact with her was when she wanted to submit a photo of her daughter Kerry to the newsletter. Kerry had won at a show with a horse she had worked with herself I believe and Marilyn was so proud of her. She REALLY wanted that photo in the next issue. I promised to do my best and I was able to fit the photo and article in. I remember thinking how nice it was to know someone who was so proud of their child. As I came to know Marilyn better, I realized how much her children meant to her and how much she supported them.
Marilyn became more involved as a Leader writer and I always enjoyed her articles. She was always good about getting them to me on time and worried if she had to hand them in past the deadline. Most of her articles focused on the youth, which was fitting I think. I came to view Marilyn as a friend and a confidant. We would mostly vent our troubles to each other through email and it was nice to know that she would understand as I pounded away on the keyboard and pushed that "send" button! Of course, not all of our correspondence was negative, we also emailed about the fun 'stuff' in our lives too.
As Marilyn and Kim Schultz took over The Leader , it was a bit comical to see how Marilyn took on this new challenge. She was willing to do it but I could tell she was a bit nervous about it. As I explained how each issue is put together, she would ask questions and make comments and I knew that the newsletter was in good hands. She and Kim have done a wonderful job
Sadly, I kind of lost contact with Marilyn the last few months; I guess that happens in life sometimes. I learned of her illness and passing only after it happened. It was of course a huge shock. I realized how much we take life for granted and wish that I had one more chance to just thank her for her friendship. Although her funeral was very sad, it was also very nice to hear her family speak of her the way they did. She would have been so proud to see all of them and I feel in my heart that she was there.
I have heard of a saying about friends that come into your life and sometimes they stay forever, sometimes they come and go. Marilyn was in my earthly life for only a short time but that short time was quality time and she has influenced me in so many wonderful ways. I know that someday I will see her again and she will have that smile on her face. Until then, I will keep her in my heart and remember her friendship and I will smile.
Dear Members of The Minnesota Arabian Horse Association, Thank you very much for all your support and the beautiful Horseshoe Shaped Floral arrangement. Marilyn loved her Arabian horses and everyone else's - that's why she had so many. She will certainly be missed! Bob Murray & family |
From the May / June / July 2005 issue of the MAHA Leader.