From Aniya

God's tapestry of abundant care for us is revealed in many ways. The notes and stories sent to me are certainly part of this. The following is from my dear friend, Aniya.

11/30/20: My dear friend, this news is terrible. I am so sorry to hear it and I want you to know I have adored and appreciated you in my life. I want to thank you for the sweet woodruff from you that grows prolifically in my garden. For the science microscope kit and rock collection, for the countless treasures, you bestowed to us during your move. But more so, to thank you for your immeasurable friendship. You counseled me when I contemplated getting a new job, right up to moments before my nervous interview. I love you and the love of a mother. I appreciate your candor all these years, your zest for life, your hope for the future.

I will be thinking of you tomorrow (during surgery) and hope to hear from you if you can somehow take visitors. Shelby and I are homeschooling and have no contact. (Covid safe)

Favorite memory! Our coworker, Ananda, went for a social hour and you were there too. You said I'll have what she's having, she ordered a double whiskey neat! You proved to me the way two seemingly very different people can be united by good. On paper perhaps, people would never have suspected my adoration for your religious, political, age differences, and yet here we are almost 15 years later a friendship that has prevailed. You brought out the better in me, you helped me to see things differently, and you gave me a conscience I never knew I had. You were the Nancy sitting on my shoulder asking, should you do that?

I have never been a person of faith, and I know you are, so I will say this, your faith has pervaded through you indirectly. In all the values of being a Christian, you helped elevate those around you.

All my love to you and Ken and the kids,

Aniya

Summer, 2019 at Elkhart Lake