These tokens of friendship are designed, manufactured, shipped to a retail outlet, displayed, purchased, signed and addressed, dropped into a mailbox, journeyed through the postal system and at last carefully placed in a mailbox. They cost a few bucks, and then require another few coins for a stamp, but Valentines are a bargain that can't be beat!
This year Mom received one from our friend Charlotte in Arizona. It has a penguin on it - a favorite of Mom and Charlotte. She and I went to church together when our children were preschool aged. During those years, when my parents would roll into town for a visit (and yardsaling) they would occasionally cross paths with Charlotte. Charlotte continues to remember and reach out to Mom every couple of weeks with an astonishing variety of postcards. On holidays she often sends color popup cards that earn permanent positions on my bookcase so that Mom can see them year round. I sing Charlotte's praises because of the many people in my mom's life, her role was quite small, yet in Mom's later days her commitment and the pleasure she brings Mom through her cards is quite large. She has heart, one which she uses to gladden my mother's days.
Another card arrived from our dear Seaboard friend, Laura. who has played and continues to play a major role in both our lives. Laura lived next door to Mom for years, but her friendship with both of us is deep and lasting. Our mutual love of God, family, and DOGS bind us as thick as if we shared DNA. (And Mom's great grandchildren, Molly and Caleb are Laura's grandchildren, so we ARE family now!) Laura is also a loyal card sender - and always seems to know when either of us need a lift or remembrance. Her cards often sport a funny canine, but they always deliver love.
My friend Jo, a good friend made during those crazy days of raising middle aged and high school boys send me a card this Valentine's, too. She has been there for both of us, especially during these last few challenging years. Mom sits under a quilt Jo made her that bursts with vivid reds, blues, pinks, yellows, and purples and sleeps under another that is her favorite color, lavender. She's also made one for Mom to enjoy at the beach, too. Mom delights in them and marvels in her skill and creativity. Jo drops in and visits in person, and to two "shut-in" women, than's perhaps the nicest remembrance of all!
One last card to share - this one from William Ivey Long in New York. William Ivey, a costume designer for stage and film in NYC, but has deep Seaboard roots. Mom was enchanted to receive a lovely handmade card from him nestled in hot pink and red tissue. We wonder if his sister, who he treats like a princess, helped him make them. Mom was charmed and so touched to be remembered!
So this Valentine's Day, I'm thinking of friends and praising God for all who lift us during our journey together. And especially for those who go the extra mile to remember us with cards - who care enough to "send the very best" of themselves through the post.
Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.- 1 John 4:7
Father, help me to remember my friends far and near with gestures of heartfelt love.
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