Jennifer

"Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it."

Hebrews 13:1

  Several years ago I worked at the Veterans Hospital in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. I often refer to my years there as one of the pivotal times of my life for various reasons. There were many challenges at this facility, primarily due to some of the staff who had the "old ways of the South" ingrained in them, but in return for my trials I was blessed to receive some of the greatest friends one will ever know. I remain in contact with many of them even today.

  One of those dear friends was a woman named Jennifer. She was African American, stood about 5'4", and always had a pleasant demeanor. Jennifer worked for the facility's IT ,(Information Technology), service and some of my duties involved supplying pagers, cell phones and/or blackberries to members of my staff. Upon my first time meeting Jennifer, I was openly aware of her professionalism, kindness, knowledge, and ability to do her job well. She had the most gentle voice and I never heard her raise it; even if things weren't going as well as they should for her on the job. I remember when she was preparing to get married she asked if I would sing a song at her wedding. The song she requested was "Never would have made it". I confessed that I had heard the song but did not know the lyrics, (I actually did not care for the song personally), but agreed to learn it. The plan for me to sing at her wedding did not come to fruition, but still I was grateful to her for giving me the song to learn for it has become one of my favorite songs because of its lyrics and  the blessing it brings to others whenever I perform it. I even modified my CD and had it added as a selection.

  When I received the call from one of my friends at the Tuscaloosa VA earlier this month informing me of Jennifer's sudden hospitalization, I was torn inside because she was a true friend. She was one of those people who gave you light and peace and flowers without even trying to do so. She loved her family fiercely.

  I sincerely believe that at this moment Jennifer no longer knows pain; in fact, she is now whole and in the presence of the Lord and those who have proceeded her on the journey we all will make one day. I am thankful to God for allowing me to meet Jennifer, for by doing so she impacted a part of my life and spirit that somehow made me a little better as a person. Such is how I value all my relationships.

 My earnest prayers are now for those whose hearts are torn at the loss of such an angel.

 Let us love and cherish one another in this brief life.

 I love you all.

 Dennis