First Baptist Church of Herndon

A Giving Spirit

Linda Soller | Mar 23, 2015

I have a colleague I’ve never met in person, who has a comparable job in a different company. Now and then we email. Sometimes we talk on the phone, and we try to assist each other. He is a bit newer to the role than I am, and so I enjoy trying to help him when I can. There are times when he probably wishes he hadn’t asked his question, because in our line of work the answer is often very time consuming. We try to stay positive and be proactive.

The other day a package arrived at my office. I knew right away who it was from by the address on the large brown envelope, but it was puffy and didn’t weigh much. I couldn’t imagine what could be inside. I laid it on my desk to answer the phone, and before I could get back to it, he emailed me. He said he wanted to send me something to say thanks for my help, which I thought was totally unnecessary. He added he had struggled to think of what he should send. He was explaining his situation to his mother and she said, “Why don’t I knit her a scarf?”  When I saw those words in the email I quickly grabbed the envelope and tore it open. Inside was a lovely infinity scarf. It seems she thought it would be a good distraction from her illness. Waiting to start her treatments she was seeking a way to stay busy, a way to keep her mind occupied. He told me just a bit about her, but I didn’t really need to hear much. I could figure it out. Here was a lady, who was ill, and she thought a good way to stay busy was to make something by hand for a total stranger.  I knew she must be very special.

I replied to his email that the gift could not have been more perfect. First, I am a knitter, so I love knitted items. Second, I am a scarf nut, I wear them all the time. I was truly honored to have received the scarf because I really appreciated the lovely work and the effort it took to put it together. I only hoped it had helped to a fun distraction. I asked my friend for his mother’s name. He replied and provided a touch more information. I said I would put her in my prayers. I was really overwhelmed by her generous giving spirit in a time when many would be thinking only of themselves. What could I possibly do for her? Then I thought of you, my loyal reader. So here is my request, help me thank Frieda and her son, by putting her in your prayers too. She is in her eighties, and from what I do know I think she is pretty spunky, and apparently a top notch bowler! Let’s give her our support and our prayers, and help her feel God’s love.  Pray for Frieda tonight and as often as you can.

Ms. Frieda – thank you for your giving spirit. We are praying for you!

Have a great week! :o)  Linda