Recently my sister, Jill, moved to Washington from Minnesota where she had resided for most her adult life. She was 'connected' to her neighborhood, her garden club, her church family.

At a 'going away' luncheon put on by her church (Ascension Lutheran), she penned and read this poem. It is written in a similar style to her favorite poet - Dr. Seuss.

A Farewell Poem

By Jill Murray

"In just a few days

Westward I'll go

And in leaving this place

There's a few things I know.

"God brought me to Ascension 11 years ago

With my husband in tow

Times were tougher then

But Ascensionites marched ahead.

As God directed the progress

And the Good Book is read.

"

"I was privileged and honored

To lead Outreach for four years.

And in that God led us

To do Outreach with less fear.

"To all of you

My sisters and brothers, believers, you are

You've become my extended family

And I will never forget, even from afar.

"Such kindness you've shown me,

My late husband, my daughter

You've lifted me up

With prayers and laugher.

"But now chapter 6 of my life

Is a chapter to write

And off to be Grandma I go

And to my delight.

"Little Raegan was perfect in all ways

Reminds me once again of how God

Creates miracles

In our lives, every single day.

"So I invite you to visit me in my new place

It's a long drive, so if you come

Please bring a suitcase.

"God has much work for you all to do

It's just getting started

People to touch, to know Jesus

Before they've departed.

"So my hope for you all

Is that you'll moved ahead without fear

And God will direct you

To proclaim far and near.

"So, friends, I say 'see you soon'

For it's never goodbye

You within my memories

And Hopefully, I.....

"Will see you all again

Either here or perhaps in the West

My love to you all

To all you, my best.

****