A morning run in the rain

I had the pleasure of meeting Carol about a year ago.  It was my first Perimeter Women's retreat and Carol was organizing yoga classes and a weekend run.  I remember telling her, "I have no interest in yoga, but if you're organizing a run, sign me up!"

  The next morning, our group met in the lobby to run.  It was raining, and our group was small, but your mom didn't seem the least bit concerned!  Our group headed out and about a mile into the run, Carol and I found we had a similar pace (she was probably slowing down for me)!  I so enjoyed the 45 minutes I had with your mom that day.  We shared our joys and challenges with raising our children, and she I could tell how proud she was of each of you!  I shared with her some struggles we were having with our daughter, and Carol was such a sympathetic listener.  I distinctly remember after our run before we parted ways, she said "let's pray for Lydia."  How that blessed me! To think I had only just met her and in that lobby of the hotel she knew how to best minister to me was to go to our Heavenly Father for help.  That told me A LOT about your mom.  I could tell she was a humble person, certainly not claiming she had all the answers of raising children, and not the least bit judgmental, but compassionate, gracious, understanding, and wise. Your mom was a special person, and I wish I knew her better.  I am so grateful God gave me that time with her that morning, and feel blessed to have come to know her.  Carol made an impression upon me that day that I will never forget!