Some days, almost every day that I don’t have a scheduling conflict, I write thank-you letters. I write letters or notes to people who made memorial gifts in my husband’s honor and to people who have taken time out of their busy lives to write a beautiful note or card. Some children from our church prayed for Ron with their parents, but they also wrote me letters and drew me some pictures. Those gifts are an exceptional treasure. I returned thanks to them with a note card I made showing Ron painting a picture.

I am still working on answering cards and letters. Three weeks after Ron’s death and the mail brings new cards nearly every day. But also, I have begun a different task, albeit a very therapeutic one for me. I am in the process of writing letters complete with illustrative print outs of colorful blog posts that spoke of Ron. These have been sent to or will be sent to the people, hospice workers, doctors, surgeons, who cared for Ron but didn’t know him well, or indeed, at all.

Neither myself, nor Ron, nor the twosome that was us, is or was at the center of the universe. I have been told that it is crazy to spend hours writing thank yous for cards, but I disagree. No one had to pay any attention to us at all. Yet, they did, which is an abundant blessing indeed. Not only that, but some of these same people sent me a birthday card, and some also an Easter card. Many have called and emailed as well.

My daughter has often video-chatted with me, and Ron’s daughters, have called and touched base to make sure I am doing okay. Ron’s sister and my brothers have also been available, helpful, and an excellent backup.

I have not been alone. These connections have all helped with my healing, providing courage and hope when I’ve most needed that. Isn’t that worth a thank you? To me, it is. From the bottom of my heart, I give thanks to all who took time out to remember Ron and to help me heal.