A Personal Note
Written by Jory Elliott · July 26, 2006
Life comes at us fast and sometimes we dont take the time to acknowledge the special moments in our lives when they are right there in front of us. To many times it requires an unfortunate event to trigger those reponses in our emotional patterns. I mention this in regards to a long time rival and friend of my fathers’ in the funny car ranks who was recently diagnosed with breast cancer.
Today was a great day for me. I visited with my girlfriend who I care very much about. I travelled several hours on a freeway without incident and I had my first coaches meeting of the year to start planning the tryout schedule for the upcoming hockey season. I had conversations with old friends about good times past and made plans to create more great memories in the future. But as I sat down at my computer to check up on the sport I love so dearly I was saddened to read of the unfortunate situation that has occured for one of the best ambassadors our sport has ever seen. Bunny Burkett is in some ways a living legend. As much a hero to many drag racing fans as John Force or Shirlely Muldowney, she has entertained fans for more years than you can count on your fingers and toes. I have fond memories of Bunny as I’m sure thousands of others do. Bunny was once considered to be one of my fathers top rivals in the alcohol funny car class in the early 80’s at Dragway Park in Cayuga, Ontario. My sister looked up to this women as an idol and an inspiration and would often wear her Bunny Burkett “Hemi Honey” T-shirt instead of supporting the competition, namely our father. I believe that example alone shows the tremendous impact that Bunny had on our wonderful sport.
I can’t begin to stress enough how moments like this make you reflect on the activities of your day and how much we should be thankful for everything we are able to experience in life. So just remember the next time you are rushing or getting frustrated take a minute, a nice deep breath and realize that just maybe your life isnt so bad after all and that there is a good person out there who has been stricken with something they didnt deserve. Enjoy the moments of your life as they pass and certainly before you do.
I thank Bunny, Mo and the whole crew for all of the wonderful memories and I wish Bunny nothing but the speediest recovery and healthiest days going forward.
To send Bunny a message please visit her website at www.bunnyburkett.com
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