By Mary Welander
State Rep., D-114
Mary Welander
I had prepared a regular column discussing the new session and the process of how an idea can become legislation, but in light of recent events I am changing it to share more personal information.
On Wednesday, Jan. 4, just a few hours after I stood to take the oath of office for my second term, I sat next to my beloved mother, Martha “Marti” Barrett, as she passed away after many years of health struggles. She was 71. She and my father, Steve, were together for almost 50 years. They raised four children and have 14 grandchildren. Mom was a teacher, principal and superintendent of a regional school district in Massachusetts. She served on the local board of education, was my Girl Scout leader, Sunday school teacher and my biggest fan. Mom was an excellent cook who hardly ever wrote any recipes down, loved to garden and always looked at the bright side.
My mom taught me that “Those to whom much is given, much is expected” and to “Always leave a room better than you found it.” She also taught me the importance of family, hard work and kindness.
Those principles guide me every day in my life, my family and my work. We were extremely close and I will miss her terribly.
Tragically, on Thursday, Jan. 5, I woke up to the news that my good friend and mentor, Rep. Quentin “Q” Williams, had died in a car crash just before 1 a.m. after his vehicle was struck by another traveling in the wrong direction. He was 39, an amazing person and legislator who was committed to making a difference in our state. I will miss his smile, his amazing hugs and the joy and optimism he carried. My heart goes out to his family as they struggle with this loss.
This time of year can be hard for so many already, and grief shows up in different ways. There are resources available; you can call 211 to find a counselor to speak with or bereavement support. If you need more immediate assistance, please call 988 to speak with someone who will help. If you know someone who is struggling, consider offering to help them find support. Often it is easier to accept help that is offered than asking for it directly.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my mom and my friend. They were gifts in my life and I will work to continue their legacies of making our communities better places.