You know those times in your life when you meet someone simply through their association with someone else that you know? You are introduced to them, you both say "Hello," nod and shake hands. Then you go on about your life without any real changes due to meeting that person. Then, there are the exceptions...those few who come into your life and change it forever. This is one of those stories!
Alan and I made a friend in such a way this past year. I actually met him before Alan did. And... well, after telling him who I was...I hugged him. There was not a hand shake at all. I couldn't help but hug him. See, I know others whose lives he had previously touched and changed. And, I will be forever thankful to him for that. That was the beginning of our friendship. Soon, I introduced him to Alan and our lives began to change with each encounter with our new friend.
He and his family have been to our home and we have shared meals and laughs with them (even took shelter during a tornado warning with them) on numerous occasions. He's simply a good man. A good man who continually gives of himself for the sake of others without asking anything in return, ever. We are better people for knowing him. He is a blessing in our lives. This Christmas, I wanted to make a quilt for him and his family. I ask nothing in return.
Becky
