Naleighna Kai's Literary Cafe Magazine November Edition | Page 62

Sheryl Lister
“Strength, courage”
Front: Lora Darlene Pearson (Tanishia’s mother), Sheryl Lister, Tanishia, Joyce Brown
Back: Elle Wright, April Lachelle, MarZe Scott
Do you know the saying that some people are only
meant to be in your life for a season? I never thought
that season would be such a short one with my sister-
friend, Tanishia Pearson-Jones. We bonded over our love
of books. I think she had read one of mine and sent me a
message. Our friendship blossomed from there in a way
designed only by God. The next I knew we were praying
for each other via Facebook messenger. Our greetings
went from, “Hi, Tanishia” or “Hi, Sheryl” to “Hey, Sis!” and
that’s what she became over the two and a half year span
of our relationship. or more, she still encouraged me to keep trusting God. I
know she did the same for others. I’d tell myself, “If she
can get through this, so can I.” “God’s grace is sufficient”
became our motto. My best memory was when I
surprised her while I participated in an event in a Chicago.
We’d chatted on the phone about how we were so sad
about not being able to finally meet in person (she was
originally scheduled to be at the same event.). The look
on her face when I walked in the door is one I’ll remember
for a lifetime. The joy of finally seeing each other had us
both emotional. Yes, it’s still an emotional memory.
When I think of Tanishia, a few words come to mind:
encourager, fighter, prayer warrior, woman of faith, and
sister. There would be days when I struggled with pain,
and somehow, she would send a message just when I
needed. Even though she’d be in as much pain as I was, Though our friendship wasn’t as long as others, the bond
was strong and the impact great. I miss my sister, and I am
grateful God allowed our paths to cross. I know we’ll see
each other once more. Tanishia left a legacy of strength,
courage, and faith in Christ that we all can follow.
62 | NKLC Magazine