Debby Marsh
Rita,I know that you have your family, your church family and friends to support you at this difficult time. You and Pat had the kind of relationship that Curt and I have; I know how devastated I would feel if something happened to my honey. However, remember this quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, "A Woman is like a tea bag. You never know how strong she is until she is put into hot water." I know that you are a strong woman because I saw how you reacted to your RA diagnosis and got the proper treatment. When we visited in 2014 (I'm so grateful for that – our two car guys together and our gossip fest!) you amazed me w/ your awesome dinner, plus you are golfing! You go, girl! Let everyone help you in your transition, however long it takes. I'm in and out, but am always willing to chat real-time; just call me. Next time you come to Pittsburgh, our offer stands; we have a lovely guest room (w/ a walk-in closet) and would love to host you! Curt periodically invites factory representatives that he's grown close to (over 25 years) to stay and I will make my St. Timothy's Coffeecake. I'll make you one and unless you are allergic to walnuts, you should love it. Ladies in Bible Study specifically ASK me to bring one; they love it that much.Please know that we love you and are praying for you and your family. When I took a Bible study on 1 and 2 Thessalonians, I was thinking of my mother, who died in 1995, but when my older brother died suddenly last February, I was able to comfort both myself and my dad w/ these words from the ESV Bible, beginning in 1Thessalonians 4:13"But we do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. 14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. 15 For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord,[d] that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. 16 For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore encourage one another with these words."I love the hope and comfort contained within those images and hope you find comfort also.Curt and I are so sorry for your loss; my heart grieves for you and your daughters.Love always,Debby and Curt Marsh