Today I’m sharing something a bit different. I want to reflect on the gift in my life of a friend, mentor, and bodyworker who died in January. I was honored to officiate at Nadia Hlibka’s celebration of life on Saturday, and that lovely experience got me thinking about her impact on my life.
I was introduced to Nadia when I was looking for a masseuse after I moved to Tucson ten years ago. Over the ensuing decade, she cared for my body in many ways, as well as my soul and spirit. She had a keen ability to sense where my body was misaligned or off kilter and could invite my body to return to a healthier state rather than pushing or forcing it to shift.
Over the years, she cheered me on as I took risks and embraced life changes. Our ministry became more reciprocal after she asked me to lead a simple liturgy after her mother died in 2018. That was why, before her death, Nadia and her son Kristov asked me to officiate at Saturday’s celebration.
Nadia exhibited an incredible enthusiasm for life. She loved to travel (as you can see in the pictures gathered here) and was inspired by deep spiritual gifts that she received during those times. In addition to caring for others through bodywork and skincare, she was an artist, a musician (her bagpipe instructor began and ended the celebration with haunting beauty), and a baker. Her sense of humor was quick, wry, dry, and very much to the point. I loved laughing with her.
As I said in my opening remarks on Saturday, despite having moved beyond our mortal sight, Nadia is very much alive and with those of us who gathered to remember her and share stories about her. She has joined the angels, ancestors, and guides who love and support us as we walk our walk, run our race, and support others in doing the same.
Nadia truly poured out herself in caring for others. She also embraced life, learning, and experiences to the fullest. Part of what I’m realizing for myself is a need to not put off training and travel that can shape and inspire me for what I’m invited into in both life and ministry. I’m grateful for her inspiration and that she’s now cheering for me and her many loved ones from “the other side.”
Who have been mentors and guides in your life, and what have they taught and shown you?
Thanks for this and for sharing your inspiration. I was listening to a song yesterday while hiking that also urged me to not put things off as well. This helped drive this message home for me.
My condolences on the passing of this bright light, Nadia.
Thank you, Erin. I’m glad my reflections reinforced the message for you, and I’m grateful for your condolences.
Peace,
Shirin