(I apologize for the posting error:  it wasn't October 14, but October 17 that Jim died. All of the information below remains the same.)

It was two years ago today that my husband, Jim, passed away. I was fortunate to have him be part of my life for more than 45 years. He was a loving, kind, and caring; with many more attributes than I'd probably like to list here.

Among other things was how much of his life he spent thinking of his family and others. To that end, he was an organ donor. "Just as well let someone else use whatever is leftover," he'd say, "I'm not going to need it!"

On October 14, 2014, the 'donation process' began. Many questions were asked of me. One of them, "Would I ever want to know the results of Jim's gift?"

Yes, my family and I would like to know. Because of his lengthy illness would there be anything of value for others? I was assured there would be.

Almost immediately, we learned that Jim's eyes could be of value to another person or two.

Several weeks ago I received this letter from the donor network:

"37 grafts have been created from James' gift of bone and connective tissue. Potential recipients of bone include children suffering from congenital deformities, patients with bone cancer and victims of spinal injuries. Grafts also can be used for reconstructive surgery, spinal fusions and oral surgery. These recipients will experience freedom from pain, greater mobility, and the opportunity to live more active lives.

"These grafts have been sent to (they listed ten states and Great Britain)."

"We have been informed that 30 grafts have been distributed for transplant from James' gift of skin and were all used in breast reconstruction post mastectomy....."

Dear Father in Heaven, I just have to say thank You......for allowing me to have Jim in my life. And that you have Him, and all of us, as part of Your forever family. In Your Son's Name who makes everything possible. Amen.

**

Prayer for Friday; taken from Focus on the Family "31 Days of Prayer for our Nation"

Day 6: Pray for blessings on our children:

"Heavenly Father,

America's children are our most precious treasures. Please protect those who are in crisis. Bless those who have been orphaned with forever families. Instill truth and morality in the next generation....even in these turbulent times. Most of all give each child the opportunity to know You. In Jesus' name. Amen."

*

Prayer for Saturday: also taken from the Focus on the Family list

Day 24: Pray for racial tensions in America:

"Heavenly Father,

Some wounds only You can salve. I ask You to calm the racial tensions in America. Bring peace and understanding to our communities. Saturate our nation with love only possible through You. Give leaders wisdom and spark believers across the country to lead the way to harmony by example. In Jesus' name. Amen."

***