Mary, my present day Dorcas

Fifteen years ago, God chose fit to bring an incredible woman into my life.  I was a doe-eyed newlywed new to Atlanta, who became one of the many souls blessed by knowing Mary Broadwell.  In her quiet, precious way, she pushed me beyond what I thought was possible.  She taught me things about friendship, marriage, living a Christian life, being a dedicated mother, and what true service looks like in the life of a woman.  She recognized me where I was, and inspired me to be so much more.
Now, it seems to our tear-filled eyes that God is calling her home.  All I can selfishly think is "Not yet.  I have so much more to learn from her."
Older women "are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled."(Titus 2:3-5)  Although I would never consider her "older," she was older than me and she did teach me a ton!  Yes, Mary is sober minded, but she showed me how to do that with a smile, a laugh, and a wonderful attitude.
The amazing thing about Mary, is that she has no idea!  She has no idea of how many souls she has influenced for the kingdom.  She has no idea how her light was shining just by walking in the door.  She has no idea how her wrestling with four little boys on a Sunday morning pew, and keeping a strict and happy home throughout the years has now spread the word of the Lord to countless others throughout the world. 
I treasure the times and conversations I've had with her, and if the Lord sees fit to allow her to stay longer here, I am going to SEIZE the day and sit at her feet to soak up as much more as she's willing to share.

Don't let the days pass by without reaching out to those who have reached out to you.  Our days here are short, but thank the Lord we get to spend eternity together.