We are approaching the end of our annual stewardship campaign. Please see the article from Eric Hays-Strom about this important element of our church financial cycle. Let me also offer my thanks to the various members of the Elders and Board that have offered weekly reminders during this month. While stewardship is important it can be a dry subject, and the efforts to lighten the subject are much appreciated.
I am writing this note from Robbinsville, NC. I came out to visit Lesa’s parents. Unfortunately, I arrived too late to visit with Lesa’s mother, Dottie. She died after a lengthy battle with many chronic conditions. She made her wishes for end of life care well known to her husband and daughter. As the end neared and she was in distress they made the difficult decision to honor her wishes and provide her with palliative care rather than aggressive treatment of her many illnesses. Her husband “Bud” was a devoted husband to her for 65 years and served as her primary caregiver until near the end of her life.
I’m coming away from this experience with two reminders: (1) the importance of designating a health care decision maker and of sharing your values and desires with this person; and (2) a reminder not to take any time you have left with a loved one for granted.
Donald Wilson
