I lost a dear friend last week, unexpectedly. I was in third grade when she and her young family moved to our little town to pastor our congregation of small numbers. They were college students. I grew up with her. She grew up with me! She is why I still eat gravy on my rice, and why I love gumbo without the okra! She and my sister are why I still giggle when I see bologna in the deli case. So many sweet memories. ♥
We never lost contact over the years. We shared secrets, sorrows and joys. We laughed. We laughed a LOT.
Berta presented me with this Bible when I was nine years old. The pages are full of writings and notes. A few months ago I found this again, so I snapped a photo and sent it to Berta on Facebook. This was our exchange:
How blessed I was as a child to have you, Berta, and your hubby in my life! Thank you. Love you~
Berta ~Thanks for sharing~ that somehow makes life worth living as a Pastor’s wife. So many times I have failed, but you and your family in our lives meant so much. May God continue to bless you. Love you all so very much May 2 at 5:00pm · (personal note ~ Berta never failed anyone!)
Paula~ You and Darrell have always meant so much to all of us. You have touched more lives than you can ever know! NOT TO MENTION….how many fun songs you taught me as a little girl! I still sing them!
Berta~ And riding in the car with an umbrella!
Paula ~ and losing a wheel going down the road! 🙂 ………….
Today I reflect, as I grieve for her family’s loss. I am so grateful to have had Berta in my life. She was a friend, always. She was family. She made the world a better place. I already miss her, but I’m pretty sure I hear the angels singing. I bet she’s teaching them our songs. ♥
stuff i tell my sister 