Sue Schmidt- In Memoriam

Once in awhile we have to step back and simply say--

It is enough- Today is enough. Today is a gift.

Working right now to plan a retreat for the

 clergy wives gathered in ministry

 in the Southeastern District.

The theme is the "Spirituality of Change."

Adapted from the book

Praying Our Goodbyes by Joyce Rupp.

Loss, change, transition.

Goodbyes.

Health changes. 

Relationship changes.

Empty nest changes.

Death changes.

Sometimes in ministry settings-

the loss quota feels like it is in

OVERLOAD MODE.

We are getting ready for a loss,

in the middle of the pain,

or living out the aftermath.

A dear sister in Christ and her family-

in the middle of change.

She has shared an insight 

that I believe blesses us all-

with a poignancy that

 only a near future brings to words.

I share them here:

"Dear sisters in Christ,

   Thanks for your thoughts and prayers. 

 I know they have helped.  

I have felt the love and concern in your cards

 and phone calls and am humbled

 by all the attention and love.   

My dear Larry is still my knight in shining armor.

 but now it's an apron he wears.  

He's become a good cook for himself, 

with a little help from me. 

 I'm  so lucky to have married

 such a patient, loving man. 

 His Mama taught him right.

  I'll thank  her again when I get to heaven. 

 I have no idea what day that will be, but I'm ready.  

 I'm with Hospice as of a week ago-

 and have found it to be a dependable organization 

with very caring, considerate people working for them.   

Our son is flying in from Hawaii on Thursday night 

and then that will be a relief for me to see him,

 hear his hearty laugh and give him a big hug. 

 I have been truly blessed. 

I'm giving my body to science since

 I have Parkinsons and ALS 

which doesn't happen that often.   

The  weaker I get,

 I trust that my Savior will lift me up 

and lead me on to be with Him 

and His Father in heaven. 

  It's wonderful to know that he's in charge 

and will not abandon me in my weak moments. 

 God give you all a strong faith

 and when you falter, 

be assured He loves you and understands. 

 Enjoy your day and tell someone you love them - 

probably not the  postman or the garbage man,

 but you get my drift. 

 Peace and joy."

 Sue Schmidt 

A quiet reminder that Today is Enough.

Today is enough time to say that I love You.

Repair that broken relationship.

Ask forgiveness.

We give thanks for a faith-filled woman of God -

who gently encourages us-

Be Brave and DO IT TODAY.