A poem for my dear friend, Shade

I remember so clearly your kindly loving smile,

Your warmth and your charm that gave you such a compassionate style,

You kept an eye, in the congregation, for those who felt weak or those who were new,

You took them under your wing and offered your kindly words and scriptural advice too.

You listened without judging 

You spoke without forcing

You advised without pushing

You questioned without probing

You listened with patience and you truly heard

Why?

Because the love you abounded was full of wisdom from Jehovah and spoke a thousand words.

Jehovah really gifted you with the ability to see the good in all,

And to be the one we could turn to if we felt we might fall

Thank you dear Shade for being a loving sister until the end 

Through all your own personal suffering, you made time to comfort your beloved sisters and dear friends

You never complained or showed your anguish and pain

You put your trust in Jehovah and lovingly encouraged others to do the same.

I will never forget your cheeky laugh and your endearing smile

I will hold these memories in my heart until we meet again, hopefully, in a short while.

In the meantime sleep peacefully, dear Shade, your words and timely words and advice will always stay with me.

May I reflect and learn from the way you loved and served Jehovah.

Love always.

Jane