.191 Steph Anderson

Steph is one of my best friend’s older sister and we met during college when they both lived together in a lovely townhouse in DC. I remember instantly feeling a sense of awe about Steph, specifically with regard to her sturdiness in who she was, her humility, and how thoughtful and filled with intent every word and action seemed to be.

One aspect of Steph that I always cherished and appreciate more so as I get older is her grounded honesty that she expressed, no matter the situation. She didn’t stoop to fit into conversations or try to purposely be agreeable - she always stood up for what she felt was right and was open and direct when something felt off. It’s hard to describe but this sense of strength of character that I see in her is something I genuinely adore in people, and it’s hard to find.

On top of all of this, Steph was clearly and constantly a wonderful older sister and mentor to Phil. I have many memories of watching them in sync with each other, and even in times when they weren’t, the love and compassion they showed for each other was present. Steph’s love and support for him always felt special to witness, and it made me better at my own unconditional love for my only sister (who also happens to be named Steph), especially since we didn’t live together, let alone in the same city.

Steph, thank you for being a mentor from afar and for always being true to who you are. Thank you for your patience with me and anyone else who caused some occasional ruckus in that house. Thank you for your contagious energy and personality, and thank you for your wonderful sense of humor, too. Thank you for being so sweet and smart and thoughtful. Thank you for being you.

-BD