Before Sena Foundation had a name, you were a part of the conception. Marj Massey was one of the sources, one of the leaders. Your attention and teaching helped us define our goals and our programs. Woven into the very fabric of Sena Foundation are your ideas, your vision, and your love.

When we decided to publish a quarterly magazine, you enthusiastically accepted the responsibility of being "Sena's" editor. When some of us called it a newsletter, you defined and clarified what "Sena" was: a magazine for the free exchange of ideas and support for those suffering loss (which meant us all).

What none of us understood at the beginning was that you would create the magazine virtually by yourself. With help from your daughter Ann and your son-in-law Tom, and always your husband Bo, Sena Magazine became an amazing educational and spiritual success.

You gave it a tone and depth to which all other Sena programs aimed. No program better reflects the underlying Sena concepts and values. With a consistency that we would wish for all our programs, you empowered Sena staff and community members to look at and share grief and loss issues.

Even through the times of your own personal losses, Sena Magazine remained unshaken, a beacon to anyone involved in grieving. Your personal bereavement became part of the teaching you offered to those of us willing to listen.

Now, because of the demands of your personal life, you leave the editorship and guidance of Sena Magazine to others. We will look forward to reading your column, "Sharing," in each issue. We will call on you to help us when we lose sight of the goals you helped us to understand. The six-plus folks whom it has taken to replace you will keep the faith. What you have given life, they will encourage to grow.

It may not say so on each page, but those of us who know will understand that every future issue will be dedicated to you. You have all of our love and our thanks.

Bill S., Sena Director

reprinted from Sena Magazine, copyright©Bill Schaefer, 1992-97