My job forces me to see horrible things. This week I reported the death of a beautiful young wife and mother named Elizabeth Bradley. It's especially difficult because she is survived by two small children and a husband.
She was riding her bike July 14 near 300 East Highland Drive in Draper when two vehicles crashed and one hit her. She died from her injuries July 16 before midnight.
My assignment was to report the contributions she made to others.
I remember walking into Xcel Fitness in Hollady where Elizabeth instructed a pilates class. I found a group of women sitting in the lobby cutting white ribbons to honor her. They had red swollen eyes and were clearly holding back tears as they quietly consoled each other.
I gently sat down to visit with them. They told me about Elizabeth powerful example and agreed to share her story with me.
We walked upstairs to Elizabeth's classroom and talked about her life.
I almost feel ashamed to write about the joy I felt in her fitness room. I was uplifted by each story about Elizabeth. They were about her simple acts of service and sincere love for others.
One friend told me Elizabeth would write beautifully handwritten notes to friends. She would express her sincere love for them.
She was always asking how she could help others.
Another woman told me Elizabeth called her days before her due date to offer her assistance.
One woman said Elizabeth helped her get back in shape after delivering a child. The two ran laps around the fitness track together.
Every woman said Elizabeth was extremely forgiving, always made amends with people who wronged her and was quick to smile. She sincerely tried to love others, even when it was difficult. She made the best of every situation.
My heart goes out to her grieving family. I know this must be a terrible time in their lives. My heart also goes out to the person who hit her. It was an accident.
The story is tragic, but some good will come from this. For example, I think Elizabeth's life is an example of what it really menas to live.
She left the world a better place because of her simple, quiet and consistent acts of kindness.
