Audrey took a black and white photograph of herself and submitted it as her senior year picture for her high school yearbook. The rather staid clothing and the absence of color perhaps reflected Audrey’s lack of comfort with her sense of self. She had a teenager’s “ordinary” self-doubt and sense of alienation, plus she had additional feelings and questions as a transracial adoptee.

But her photograph and this portrait display only one part of her. She also had a sunniness of character, and she brought light and color to other people. She had a buoyant laugh; she loved cats; she was an artist and found pride and pleasure in that work.

Moreover, she cared for people. Her inner struggles allowed her great empathy for friends experiencing angst and alienation. She knew how to listen, and she was unfailingly supportive and optimistic. She was an exceptional person to have as a daughter and sister to her family, or as a friend.