This is the story of a teacher, a spiritual mentor. But the lessons didn’t take place in any learning institutions. This woman didn’t teach metaphysical principles nor did she preach from a pulpit. This beautiful spirit taught by example, by how she lived her life and how she enjoyed every day to the fullest.

Mae Bregger was one of the brightest souls ever to grace my life. She was lively, fun, vibrant and eager for that life had to offer her. Still very active at age 88, she spent her days volunteering at the Finnish Center (a heritage she was very proud of) and at the phenomeNEWS office helping with mailings.

She taught me appreciation. Mae was grateful for everything and never took one day for granted. She loved to read. One of her favorite sources of inspiration was from the Science of Mind philosophy. She introduced me to metaphysical and spiritual writings when I was still in my teens. Her smiling face was found frequently in the audience of many traveling teachers, authors and Eastern gurus. One of her favorite authors was Wayne Dyer. Last year, when she turned 88, she was thrilled when Marianne Williamson came over after a lecture to personally wish her a happy birthday.

The biggest example she set for me was by being a person who laughed heartily, played joyously and dipped into the stream of life with total abandon. Fearlessly she jumped into each new adventure that came her way with the wonder and excitement of a child. And life did bring her many varieties of experiences. Last year, she bought her first computer and was excited every week to go to her computer classes. Always learning and growing were just a natural part of who she was.

I love how Mae lived her life and the way her very presence lit up the room whenever she entered. She vibrated with such warmth and joy that you just wanted to be around her.

Her energy was boundless. When she went into the hospital recently, her daughter-in-law, Cathy, said that the only problem with her was that she was “a 35 year old in an 88 year old body.”

Mae Bregger passed into God’s hands on March 19, 2005.

I will forever miss her smiling face, her joyful demeanor and her loving presence.

The world is definitely a better place because she was in it. She leaves a huge imprint in the hearts of the many lives she touched.

So, with this last tribute to my dear beloved Mae, I bid her a fond farewell on her new adventure.

The stars are shining a bit brighter tonight as they welcome her home.

Bon voyage, sweet spirit.