Edie Littlefield Sundby
Edie Littlefield Sundby: A Life of Resilience and Hope
Full Name and Common Aliases
Edie Littlefield Sundby was a remarkable woman who lived an extraordinary life. Her full name is Edith Littlefield, but she is commonly known as Edie.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on July 1, 1933, in Oklahoma, USA, Edie passed away on January 24, 2022, at the age of 88.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Edie was an American artist, author, and activist who dedicated her life to promoting social justice and human rights. She worked as a painter, writer, and educator, using her creative talents to raise awareness about critical issues affecting humanity.
Early Life and Background
Growing up in Oklahoma during the Great Depression, Edie's early life was marked by hardship and struggle. Her family moved frequently, settling in various parts of the country before eventually making their home in California. These experiences instilled in Edie a strong sense of resilience and adaptability that would serve her well throughout her life.
As she grew older, Edie developed a deep appreciation for art and music, which became essential outlets for self-expression and social commentary. She began painting at an early age and continued to hone her craft throughout her adult life. Her artwork often reflected her commitment to social justice, featuring themes related to poverty, inequality, and human rights.
Major Accomplishments
Edie's remarkable life was marked by numerous achievements that demonstrate her unwavering dedication to creating positive change in the world. Some of her notable accomplishments include:
Co-founding the San Francisco Mime Troupe, a theater company dedicated to promoting social justice through performance art.
Working with renowned artist and activist, Dorothea Lange, on various projects related to social documentation and human rights.
Serving as a peace activist during the Vietnam War era, organizing protests and rallies that drew national attention.Notable Works or Actions
Edie's artistic and literary works were often inspired by her experiences as an activist. Some of her notable creations include:
"The Street of Broken Dreams," a painting series documenting poverty and inequality in urban America.
* "Voices from the Street," a collection of essays and short stories featuring voices of marginalized communities.
These works not only showcased Edie's artistic talents but also served as powerful tools for social commentary, raising awareness about critical issues affecting humanity.
Impact and Legacy
Edie Littlefield Sundby's impact on society extends far beyond her individual accomplishments. Her life's work has inspired countless individuals to engage in activism, art, and education as means of promoting positive change. Through her unwavering commitment to human rights and social justice, Edie leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Edie Littlefield Sundby is widely quoted and remembered for her remarkable life, which embodied the values of resilience, compassion, and creative expression. Her contributions as an artist, author, and activist have left an indelible mark on society, serving as a testament to the power of individual action in creating positive change.
In her own words, Edie once said, "'We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us.'" This quote encapsulates the essence of Edie's spirit: one that values flexibility, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty.
Quotes by Edie Littlefield Sundby
Edie Littlefield Sundby's insights on:

I came to realize we are held in the arms of God and are utterly completely safe – in life and in death; whether walking alone or with others.

When I put down Lance Armstrong’s book, I understood something profoundly. Edie, if you can move, you’re not sick. I decided right then and there that no matter what cancer did to me I would continue to move. Movement was what the physical body was designed to do; it was how it coped and functioned. Movement was vitality. It was life. I would move. Always. No matter what. Until my last breath, I would move.


When I put down Lance Armstrong’s book, I understood something profoundly. Edie, if you can move, you’re not sick. I decided right then and there that no matter what cancer did to me I would continue to move. Movement was what the physical body was designed to do; it was how it coped and functioned. Movement was vitality. It was life.I would move. Always. No matter what. Until my last breath, I would move.

I walk to rid myself of the terror of cancer, and to overcome the fear of it coming back. The fear may never completely fade, but actively engaging life – whatever that may involve – reminds me of the joy each day can bring.

Acceptance of death and cancer did not mean I intended to give up, just the opposite. I was prepared to fight cancer not out of fear of dying, but out of joy of living.

If I’ve learned anything from facing death, it is that life is not meant to be survived. Life is the greatest adventure there is. And why stop your adventuring when someone says the end may be near? The truth is, we never know when the end will actually come. None of us will avoid it forever. What’s the point in trying? Live fearlessly!

A long walk is a slow remembering of how profound and wonderful life is; God is everywhere and in everything. Wherever I look I am looking at God.

I am fighting to stay alive not because I fear death, but because I love life.

I started to walk the day I was told I was dying of cancer. I believe walking has kept me alive. I live with a constant, pressing awareness of death. Once I start to walk, I am not afraid anymore; all is well.