Today I went to a funeral of a friend who I had not seen in a few years, yet her life touched my life. More importantly, how she lived touched and impacted many lives.
When I first came to this community in 1976, Carmen was here. She was running an employment office for the poor at a very old building with grace and kindness. Later she was the leader of the women at the food bank in Juarez, Mexico. The women loved her because she treated them with kindness and dignity. There was a mutual respect and love.
Carmen lived as a humble servant of the Lord. She did not look for fanfare and praise. She was not harsh but rather smiled much and her fun and joyful spirit attracted children. Besides being a super Tia to her nieces and nephews and godchildren, she also taught First Communion to children at the church.
The day before she died, I went to see Carmen. She was unconscious and was so peaceful and quiet. There was no agitation of any sort.
I received a note from a friend saying, “It strikes me that she is dying the same way she lived: quietly and in peace.”
The main refrain that I heard today from people of all ages was just how “good” she was.
It has caused me to meditate on how we “Reap what we sow.” Like the Scriptures say:
- “As I see it, those who plow for mischief and sow trouble, reap the same.” Job 4:8
- “Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest.” Gal. 6:9
It hit home to me today a lesson we all know – We are not here very long and how we live matters!
I hope I treat others with kindness and respect.
I can just hear Jesus saying to Carmen, “Welcome home, good and faithful servant.”
God bless you,
Mary Ann / Mother Hen
Rachel says
Very beautiful mom
Thank you for the gentle reminder