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| Message by Diana Clark |
At the age of 70, I became a photographer and a writer,
without any formal training – what a coincidence! Or is it? I am learning that
some so-called coincidences in life aren’t coincidences at all. Proverbs 3:5-6 says: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He
shall direct your paths.” Therein lies the answer: It is the Lord
directing my paths.
One path led me to “Friends Needing Friends” and eventually to
the Apple Store where I bought an iPad.
I took the iPad to a FNF meeting and used it to take a couple pictures,
which led to becoming the FNF photographer.
Another path led me to become a volunteer at a United
Methodist Home, which involves facilitating a senior writing group; that has
inspired me to write my memoirs, as part of my legacy, and also several short
stories about the little things in my life that are meaningful to me, or simply
a pleasant memory. So, now I’m a writer!
I have discovered that writing can be extremely therapeutic.
Whether it’s anecdotes to share with others or journaling for your own benefit,
it is an outlet for your innermost feelings. I encourage you to give it a try;
you’ll be surprised by how many stories are stored in your memory bank – what a
wonderful part of your legacy they will be IF
you record them.
Here is a sample of the type of story I enjoy writing and
sharing. It’s called….
A
Very Special Date
Shortly after becoming a widow, I was invited on a date with a
very handsome gentleman in celebration of my birthday. I was hesitant, but I
could not resist. He wouldn’t tell me where we were going – he wanted it to be
a surprise.
When the day arrived, I leisurely dressed for the unknown
event. I wanted to look nice for my date. It brought back such fond memories of
when I was dating my husband during our courting days many, many years ago.
When I answered the door that evening, there he stood, as
handsome as ever, holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers. How thoughtful of
him. He smiled, gently kissed my check and said “Happy Birthday.” I fought back
the bittersweet tears as I located a vase and quickly arranged the bouquet.
We drove to a very nice restaurant where we shared a
delightful dinner. When the meal ended, he looked at his watch, “We better
leave now in case traffic is heavy. We don’t want to be late.” Late for what, I
wondered.
He headed north and crossed the bridge to Philadelphia. At
last we arrived at our destination the Mann Music Center featuring a
performance by the River Dancers. How exciting!
It was fascinating to watch the
precision and energy of the dancers. It was almost contagious. We walked about
during intermission; he was attentive to my every need. When the show ended, I
held his arm as we walked back to the car. Conversation never waned as he drove
me home.
It was a very special date with a very special gentleman. As
he was leaving my apartment, I hugged him tightly as I said, “Thank you, Honey.
I had a wonderful time.”
“You’re
welcome, Happy birthday, Mom, I love you.”
EndNote:
It was definitely one of the best days of my life and made
even sweeter by the fact that it was my daughter-in-law’s idea. I am very blessed.Thank you Doug and Jen. I love you both dearly!
"Because He Lives" by Guy Penrod
