I have learned that there are seasons for everything. Emotions are up and down. Friends, relationships, and even marriages will come and go. But our God remains constant.
I previously blogged an insert from my book Running in Heels: A Memoir of Grit and Grace. It mentioned Susie’s husband, who became my former husband’s uncommon German buddy. Their friendship lasted a lifetime. I witnessed a feat that God alone could accomplish in that man of mine back then. Did it go as I had hoped for in our marriage? No. But there were lessons learned, and I believe growth took shape inside of me.
Donny completed weeks of treatment for alcohol abuse as an inpatient at the VA Hospital. Afterward, another remarkable friendship soon began to take shape. A bond soon developed. Donny met Ronnie. He was one of the sweetest men I knew. Ronnie was married to Carolyn, the sweetest woman I knew (and still do). Known for being a “completed-Jew,” Ronnie loved Jesus and shared the love of Christ with others. Ronnie was not one to reserve his affection. He never shied away from giving Donny a couple of his bear hugs whenever they crossed paths. I believed that because Donny had no siblings, Ronnie’s warmth filled a void in him. Ronnie became the big brother he never had. There wasn’t anything one wouldn’t do for the other.
Donny had always been a giver, but spending time with Ronnie taught him genuine compassion. My former husband had a heart after all, and he had begun allowing others to see it. Carolyn assured me that Ronnie was also learning about his willingness to take risks from Donny. Our husbands were worlds apart, like salty pretzels and sugar cookies. Amazingly, we saw them caring for and loving each other as true brothers. It’s been said that God works in mysterious ways.
Years later, our dear friend Ronnie became gravely ill. After a few months, we were shocked and heartbroken to learn of his passing. The news shook Donny to the core. But one thing for certain remained. Donny had learned to love. He then grew to miss someone significant in his life. Undoubtedly, our dear friend Ronnie left a lasting mark; he blessed and affected all he met.
Sweet Carolyn, one of my sisters & forever friends with her sweet Ronnie!
Present: I recently had lunch with sweet Carolyn and reminisced about our husbands’ unique friendships those many years ago. We remembered how they had a mutual love and respect for one another. “They both loved to fish together,” Carolyn said, “and Donny was there if Ronnie ever needed help with anything physical.” Whatever the task, she commented on how Donny did it right and graciously. “Those two were peas in a pod,” Carolyn said, “they so enjoyed spending time together.” Indeed, they did, and for several years, Donny walked a straight line and had become accountable.
In retrospect, I learned that you might not remember what someone said. However, you will never forget how they made you feel, and that speaks volumes to this day.
As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend
Prov. 27:17
From Heart to Heritage
Reflections From the Heart 