Shelly:
You know those people in your life that
you know will be there forever no matter what? The kind of people
that no matter how long it’s been since you’ve seen them or
talked to them you seem to just pick back up where you left off.
Shelly is this person for me. She is my friend and my sister. She has
been in my life for about eleven years now. She was there when I
asked Christ into my life at the age of twelve. She has been my
spiritual mentor and an example of Christ throughout our whole
friendship. She is the kind of friend that I know I can tell anything
to, at any time and she will never cast judgment or think differently
of me. She is a very rare kind of friend to have.
Shelly, you have been more of a friend
than I could ever ask for. You are a blessing to me. I cherish our
friendship very much. You have been there for me when no one else
was. You’ve welcomed me into your family with abundant love and
grace. You have pushed me along, and encouraged me in my spiritual
walk throughout the past several years. Words can’t describe the
amazing example of a woman of God you are to me. You are a woman full
of integrity, love, wisdom, gentleness, patience, kindness, trust,
beauty, and grace. Your faith in God is one to admire. There have
been countless times when I have seen you walk completely in faith,
with no looking back. You are an amazing mother. It makes my heart
sink when I see you with Timothy. Your sense of adventure and travel
is awesome. It makes me want to travel more, and the way you
encourage me to speaks volumes. You (and Brian) are huge influences
of my decision to come on the Race. Your support and encouragement
this year has been over flowing, and has kept me going when I thought
I couldn’t go anymore. I am undeserving of a friend like you, but I
am very thankful that the Lord has put you in my life.
I love you more than you know Shelly. I
could never put it into enough words.
