thoughts of heart and dedication

shared by Jeff Ynzunza, her junior high and high school friend

I always remember Cynthia's bubbly personality around school and at sporting events. She was always involved with something, whether it was sports (Volleyball, Basketball, and Badminton), or with helping run the school as part of the student council.

I honestly don’t recall a time when I ever heard her complain about being tired either. I also don’t think she ever said a negative thing about someone.

She inspired a lot of people to get involved and stay active in the school. She was one of the reasons why, after we graduated, I ended up sticking around and coaching various sports so I could remain involved and give back.

I remember talking to Coach John Webb after she passed away, about how there would never be another person even close to her in terms of her dedication.

She truly was a very special person. The world truly is a better place because of people like Cynthia. I only wish that more people had her heart and dedication.

Those of us who were blessed enough to know her, even if it was not for nearly long enough, are better people because of it. Cynthia is truly missed.

thoughts of little heavenly "hello's"

shared by Marlo R. Beall, her sister

I always appreciate subtle, serendipitous moments throughout the day, that I know are Cindy's way of saying hello from above. I encountered five of these different moments, just yesterday and today.

Last night, I was texting with a fellow softball mom about practice, and we learned that we were both Filipino; and we thought that was a fun coincidence. She later went on to tell me that her mom's name is Cynthia.

While at work this morning, there was an email announcement about a newly hired employee at our campus library, and her name was Cynthia too.

Later at work, I was walking through the hall after an unusually complicated counseling appointment, and happened to see a student who crossed my path who was wearing a (University of Kansas) Jayhawk hoodie.

Another email that I received today was from a colleague at another college whose name is Cindy. Her email had been sent at 11:52am (a time that I relate to Cyn, as described in a previous blog entry).

Between yesterday and today, I exchanged emails with my friend Aris (who is getting married this month), and he mentioned that he was including a photo from my and Andrew's wedding in his own wedding slide show. It's a photo of him, Carla, Cindy and VJ (also mentioned in a previous blog entry).

I know these moments are Cyn's way of reminding me that she's always with me; and that regardless of what is going on at any given moment during my day, there's always a reason to smile... so I do.