September 17, 2006
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Leora
Leora Overholt Swartzentruber -- a very special person in my life. My first memory of her goes back to my childhood. She fascinated me. Maybe it was the friendly smile, making me feel wanted. Maybe it was because she was a twin. Not sure what it all started with, but I know that by the time she left us, she had become such a good friend. She had her own way of using my name -- "Gracie", she would say, "I want you to know that I pray for you - every time I use the silverware you gave me for my wedding" It was a comfort to know that she would pray for me so often.
She traveled with me to see Eldon's son in Meigs one weekend before they were married. She enjoyed the trip, but was soooo anxious to arrive home before Eldon would be calling her! (This was before common day cell phone use!) It rained so hard on the way home that we missed our road, but we made it in time. She was so refreshing - to see God lead her into marriage with such excitement in her.
God has truly blessed me with her friendship, and now when I think of her, I will hear "Gracie, I am waiting to show you Heaven, keep the faith, it is so worth it!" -- and so she will have an influence even after she has gone. I'll thank the Lord for her many more times, and be challenged to keep the faith.
Comments (6)
Good morning! What a special person to give you encouragement like that! I'm sure she has special crown in heaven. May we all be an encourager in that way. to help each other onward. Asking God to bless us that we might be a blessing. Then Glorifying Him for what He has done for us. Often times through others. God bless you that you also might be a blessing to others.
Grace, I am sorry to hear u lost someone that was so close to u.I know it is hard but she is happier where she is now than if she had to deal with the temptations and aggravations of this world.praying for u.ttyl.
A nice tribute to Leora. She was my second cousin, as-well-as a friend. I couldn't tell the difference between Leona and Leora until they were in their teens. I don't know if I spent more time with them, then, or if there was actually more of a difference in their looks. Her faith challenged me.
Good memories and a good testimony! Great to see you this weekend!
That is right. Albert
Grace, I don't know if you are aware that as we were leaving the graveside service, my youngest daughter, Sonya, began feeling poorly and nearly fainted. Your daughter, Elizabeth, was very kind and helpful to her, getting her water and a cold cloth to put on her face. Although we expressed our gratitude to her that day, I hope you will express our thanks to her once more. Her kindness was much appreciated! Merlin
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