Witness

Even before we owned a car, there was never a time church was absent in my life. My father and I would walk down through Sugar Hollow on our way to church. There followed the learning of Bible verse, their guidance, summer Bible school, participating through song in both the choir for children and the adult choir, Epworth League and Camp Milan; all were there for me to learn, to study and to play an active role.

The joy of marriage to "my knight in shining armor," our 5 dear children, their learning to love & to live that way of life, brought structure and stability... ...the blessing of a Christian home.

But tragedy comes too! Our 4th child was born with cerebral palsy. Hers was not slight. Never able to sit alone, to walk, talk or in any manner be able to function, taught our family patience and compassion, as well as an appreciation of so many blessings we often take for granted! Lynn was with us for 9 years; she passed away at Dixon in her 17th year.

Children are our treasures; they are ours but for a brief interlude. We were to lose 2 more: Norm at 32, gone in minutes... ...aneurysm; Lauren, with cancer at 13, followed by remission... ...recurrence at 20, with 4 long years of illness before giving her peace at 24. Life is fragile! Life is cruel!

Strength comes to us through many avenues. I found that prayer cannot change things; it did change me for things! Our United Methodist Women offered a channel for me to serve and to give support and concern for others. Kerygma and disciple study groups, our Circle of Friends in Christ class each Sunday and the availability to join a small group for study have enriched my understanding... ...through discussion and sharing with fellow Christians, all have aided in my personal walk with Christ.

In times of stress and sorrow, my garden has a wealth of strength. My friend, Jane Martin, gave me a placque... ...its last thought gives the true story... ..."One is nearer God's heart in a garden than anywhere else on Earth!" My garden has served me well! And it, too, can be shared!