A Birthday Card, Heaven Sent!

Hi Mom,

It’s your special day! Happy Birthday to the one who put on at least 100 birthday parties a year, many for kids that would not have had a party if not for you and the loving staff you guided with grace. I wanted to let you know I‘ve been leaning on your lessons of late. Many others are doing the same.

We’re experiencing something I had no idea would be possible in the 21^st Century. You lived through some extraordinary events, many that redefined life for you and everyone around you. Today, people are struggling with just about every part of life, but the ones that seem to be the most difficult are isolation, money, and the fear of the unknown.

I remember some challenging days when I was drawn to share my resources and help make sure 100 families had uninterrupted reliable, trusted childcare. To be called upon for such a remarkable mission was my highest honor. I’ve also leaned into another attribute you showed me in times of struggle. The hand of God is gently pushing me forward during these unusual days. Even though many of us have been given the gift of time, your spirit of serving others has filled my time wisely. The hospitals, nursing homes, and home health care professionals have been running short of personal protection equipment supplies. Your voice in my ear resulted in a search and find of a container meant for West Africa, in Kent, just five miles from our hometown.

One other gentle push came because of candy! A friend asked me if I had an idea how we could make a difference with lots of Easter candy. Once I saw it was two pallets of candy, I had to enlarge my imagination. Over 1,000 kids received Starbucks Easter Bags that rivaled many of the fantastic Easter baskets you and Dad provided a few years back. We also supplied hospitals, seniors, and a special group of kids in a remarkable community that supports Down Syndrome families.

Everything listed above is a path you began for us. I had an opportunity recently to share many of the things I admire about you most in the form of a TEDx talk. The 15 minute appearance was the most important thing I’ve ever done because I’d been waiting to tell your story, in detail for three years.

When it comes out soon, you’ll be the first to see it.

One of the other pieces of our current shutdown that appears to be more difficult than most of us realized is isolation and the fear of the unknown. These two subjects you knew well. I remembered and have consistently practiced an important mindset you carried always. I recall how you used the words of Dr. Vincent Peale to encourage your believe that there was a greater power guiding you. I’m beginning to spend more time doing the same. One way is reaching out to people I know who live alone of perhaps have family in another part of the country. Sounds like something you would do.

Finally, this uncertain time has created much fear about the unknown. School has been cancelled for the year, summer travel is completely in question, and many don’t know what the future looks like. I remember in your deepest ruts, when things looked like folding the tent was the only option, you would say, This Too Shall Pass.

I want you to know Dad is doing well and our extended family has grown by at least five since you went to be with the Almighty. Your example of Love and Kindness is still alive and well.

Happy Birthday. Love you so much.