Letters are Important

During our TBC days in one of the Shepherdess Classes either Sis. Ensey or Sis. Keating imparted a bit of wisdom that I have at least partially kept apart of my life. It was suggested that we keep a journal through out our husband's ministry of things we learn from other minister's wives. It was stated some things we learn may be how not to's rather than how to's. I can honestly say though I may not write each of them down I do try to put these how to's into practice these MANY years later. Today a friend, Sharon Chance, taught me something I would like to put into practice or maybe I should say implement more often.

Sharon apparently was a letter writer and even cherished letters given her by others. There was a letter read that was written to one of her dear friends. Aaaaahh how sweet, I thought. Then later in the service I learned that since her death Bro. Chance had a strong urge to go to a box that his sweet bride kept of their love notes apparently even recent letters. When he opened the box there was a new letter still sealed. It was from Sharon to him dated August 13, 2008. She wrote it as if she was already gone. I'm sure knowing he wouldn't find it until she was gone she felt safe to place it in the box. It was so sweet. She thanked him for being the best, taking care of her the best, etc. Later in the service letters were read to her children and church that she wrote prior to her death. These letters were surprises to the recipients. There was a framed letter from Sis. Chance to Bro. Chance on the guest book table. It was a letter thanking him for a trip to Virginia for their 25th wedding anniversary.

Not only did she leave letters to be read after her death to people important she also planned her funeral. It was very special and truly spoke of her. Her girls and daughters-in-law carried pink long stem roses with pink ribbons. The speakers wore pink ribbon lapel pins. The choir and church congregation wore simple bink ribbon loops. Sharon fought a courageous fight against breast cancer.

I couldn't help but weep when we entered Hope Center and saw Sis. Irma, Bro. Chance's secretary, whom we've known for many years. Sis. Irma was so broken. Of course the Chance family was very sad, too. Bro. Chance was the most broken or sad man I have ever witnessed. It wasn't because of a loud display of emotion but rather a very quite spirit but yet such a look of anquish and loss was on his countenance. His body seemed to be physically broken. Please join us in prayer for Bro. Chance. I can't even imagine how he must surely feel tonight.

Following is the order of the Memorial Service for Sharon Elaine Chance

Hope Center Choir "Stand"
Remarks & Obituary Mike Tuminello
Remarks Terry Creekmore
Choir "Total Praise"
Remarks & Letters Anthony Mangun
Choir "For Every Mountain"
Remarks Ron Libby
Choir "Tis So Sweet"
Slide Show
Choir "I Just Can't Give Up Now"
Prayer, Elder Bro. Chance (Bro. Mike Chance's Father)

Tonight I sit in my living room near my husband. I am thankful for our time together. I want to make sure he knows every day my love and admiration for him. I also want to make sure I leave memories for both he and my children. Life is so fragile. Thank you, Sharon, for teaching one more lesson even during and after your death. I will always remember you!