Sara Bingham King
I once read a quote from the book House Rules, by Jodi Picoult. It says, “It feels like the hole in your gum when a tooth falls out. You can chew, you can eat, you have plenty of other teeth, but your tongue keeps going back to that empty place.” Like the newly formed hole in the mouth, the absence created by the passing of my friend and teacher, Sara King, may take a while to get used to. I discovered a whole new perspective on what my goals and purpose of life would be. Many events have made a big impact on my life, and this has been one of the greatest.
When I was five years old, Sara was my teacher in Primary (the children’s organization at church). She later became the church’s primary president when I was about nine years old. I always admired Sara’s faith in God, enthusiasm, kindness, humor, and her great love for everyone. She very much symbolizes a shining ray of sunshine because she was always very bright and brought happiness wherever she went. My friend was an amazing, beautiful young woman who made everyone around her feel very happy. She was also a loving mother to her three kids and a friend to many people. One of my favorite memories of her was when she would tell all the kids in our class how much she loved teaching us and that we were all children of God.
About three years ago, Sara was diagnosed with colon cancer. As she announced her illness, many people immediately helped in many ways. Everybody loved and cared for her greatly. She was a strong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even during her sickness, Sara continued her position as president of the Primary organization. It always made me very sad to see how much pain she was going through. What I love about Sara was that she always wore a shining smile where ever she went, even during the times when she had just gotten her chemo treatment and felt very ill. Knowing Sara King has made a great impact on my life. Everyone at church kept Sara in their daily prayers. However, after two and a half years of battling colon cancer, Sara passed away. She left behind her family of three young children and her husband.
Sara’s passing has been an eye-opener to me and has made me realize that I’ll never know when it is my turn to go. Before I leave this world, I want to be a good influence to others, just like my awesome friend Sara. I have learned that prayers are not always answered the way we want them to be. Sara’s passing made me reevaluate my priorities and the purpose of life. This sad event has inspired me to live each day to its fullest, like Sara did. I want to be remembered as a kind and happy person. Although I lost my friend, I have developed a new perspective on the main goal of my life.
Hundreds of people showed up at Sara’s funeral. She has been greatly missed by everyone, especially by her parents, siblings, husband, and her 3 young children. I believe that we will see Sara again in heaven, and that we are only separated temporarily. Even as the pain from the loss of sara starts to lessen, she will always be apart of my life. Remembering Sara King will always remind me to be the best person I can and to be kind to everyone. I can picture her standing in heaven with her beautiful smile waiting to give everyone a big hug.
