Heartwork
Two Seater
One Year Later: Mark's First Letter to Sue
Thursday, February 20
Dear Sue:
While you don’t know me, we have a shared experience and some mutual friends in Barry & Jan Hays. My wife died from cancer several years ago and Barry and Jan were my shadow for the period following her passing. During that time, I saw Barry grieve twice, once for my wife and again a month later for a friend in Dallas – your Roger. During the past year and a half, Barry and I have cried through many lunch hours – but we grieve not as those who have no hope. The comfort of his friendship has been a lifesaver for me.
Recently, the Hays gave me a copy of a letter and a picture of your family you sent them nearly a year ago. They said your thoughts following your husband’s death were similar to mine, and that I might find some comfort in knowing “I’m not alone.”
I don’t understand why your letter came my way – but I felt compelled to write and share a couple of things that encouraged me.
I’ve enclosed a copy of “The Hollyhocks” among other things. I’ve received many cards and notes from people I do not know – all with kind words of encouragement. Somehow the Lord has carried me through with all these bits of correspondence. I think this is one way the Kingdom grows. Since my wife’s death, a good friend of mine lost his wife to breast cancer and another friend’s husband died about 2 years ago. All have children and all, by God’s grace, are finding their way. I think of them often and if you don’t mind, I will add you to that list.
Sincerely,
Mark Stewart