I don't think I ever called you Jenni. You were always Liggett to me and it was the best name to use for "pimping." Ok, it's not what you may be thinking. Pimping was a silly gesture done while we were at Hope. When seeing on of your friends across, say the crowded dining hall, you would shout their name but then quickly resume what you were doing so the friend would look dumb searching to find who "pimped" them. Because Liggett knew, and I don't believe I am exaggerating, the entire student body at Hope, her name would be "pimped" numerous times in the dining hall. She was, and continued all these years after graduation, Hope's #1 fan.
I am so grateful I was assigned to the 2nd floor of Gilmore Hall (aka The Virgin Vault-we were so proud of that nickname!) along with Liggett. We became fast friends. Her love of people and easy, fun loving nature was just so wonderful to be around! We truly grew up into adulthood together as we went through crazy sorority pledging, late night popcorn dates in the dorm hall, going to formals, selling donuts/eating all the donuts, watching fraternity boys streak between the dorms, etc. Our 4 years of friendship at Hope was the foundation for our life long friendship and I have been blessed to call Liggett my friend 40 years later! Coming to Hope from the East coast and returning to NJ/NY after graduation left us with miles between us, but whenever I was able to get back to our "Lamda" get togethers in Holland it was as if no time had passed.
Liggett was always so genuine in her desire to catch up. She was quick to hug, laugh, listen, and be there for all of us. Since Liggett's passing, the Lamdas have spent every night group texting our memories and photos of her. We've all been in shock by our loss of such an amazing friend. We've been shedding many tears and sharing lots of laughter as well as we recall all that is Liggett. And will continue to be Liggett. As I still hear her name shouted across that crowded dining hall, I am reminded to live as Liggett lived: laughing as loudly and often as possible, listening more closely, loving my family, friends, and dog more deeply, and remembering this life is short. Live it well like our Liggett has done. Liggett, you are loved and missed.
