Remembering Karen

Dear Editor: 

I deeply regret that I am not able to attend the service for my friend Karen Rice.  Poets and noted authors have used descriptive words of endearment throughout history to describe the word “friend.”  I would like to take the liberty of defining the friendship that I found with Karen.

I am first of all grateful that our last phone conversation shared some words of encouragement and ended with the words, “I love you.”  I loved Karen.  Our friendship was not defined by agreeing on everything. Actually, we often had different agendas, but always knew that we could call on one another at any time, day or night, to share our hearts, our fears, our joys, and our commitment to trusting each other with the deepest concerns of our hearts.

I remember when Karen was looking for part-time work, I suggested she check our Observer newspaper for sales.  She had the energy, the smarts, and the commitment to making some extra money.  It was a win-win situation, and, after 20 years, she worked until her little body couldn’t.

I remember when I was teaching aerobics at the church, and Karen again took a leadership role in the classes.  She was a high-energy type of soul, and, even when her babies were born, she toted them to class in their carry-on seats.  As the children grew, they were the first thing she talked about when we got together.  I know she was proud of them, and, more than that, I know how much they were loved.

After I moved to Virginia, I would always try and catch up with the old gang on my return visits to Florida to spend time with my mother and family.  We had all experienced some mountain tops and valleys in our lives. Yet, there was something that kept us together… and that is “friendship.”  It doesn’t define itself by borders, judgment, or time and space.  It is true and can always be counted on.  It means you can trust me with your heart, and I will share my life with you, the good and the bad.  The masks come off, and the soul is revealed.

Perhaps, some of our most intimate conversations were faith-based.  I told her often that I was praying for her, and, in my heart, I believe she felt a sense of peace, knowing that I kept her in prayer.  I know that Karen knew faith is really all we have that is truly meaningful.  Everything else will pass away.  Our bodies will age, sickness can be our enemy, and material things are still just things.  All things shall pass away, but the love of the Lord and that spirit that lives within our souls does endure the test of time.

So my precious Karen, I know you are whole again.  No more pain, no more regrets, no more what-ifs.  You have seen the face of Jesus, and He is now your counselor. Your redeemer. Your prince of peace. Your savior and friend.  You are in His presence, dear one, and I personally rejoice in knowing that.

Perhaps the greatest gift we can give our friends is knowing that we will share eternity with them.  It is “good-bye for now,” but I know we will meet again.  I will always love you.

Your friend for eternity,

Carol Ann Draper