Good morning…
The Westminster Class of 2024 hosted a gathering to honor the memory of Audrey DeShetler on Wednesday, August 6th, celebrating her impact on their class and our community far and wide. The next day, I texted with Audrey’s mom.
Me: How was the gathering, Jennifer?
Jennifer: I literally started crying before the service even started. I think about 80 people showed up. Teachers, parents, and Audrey’s classmates. We were overwhelmed by the teachers who spoke to us about how Audrey always got things done, always beforehand, not ever turning anything in late, despite so many days missed for her medical treatments. Some of her classmates talked to us afterwards. One girl was in complete tears. She was an innovation fellow with Audrey and said Audrey was always so friendly and chill, that she was brilliant and came up with the most innovative ideas. Audrey would calm her and help her with projects, without ever taking any credit. So many stories. One girl told me she was brought up with no religion at all, but every time she was around Audrey, she felt overwhelmed with God’s presence. She is in a Christian student group at UNC now.
Me: I am grateful you had such a meaningful experience. Stories about Audrey’s character and giftedness may always make you cry. She was “other-worldly” always. And she did carry God’s peaceful presence everywhere she went. I am glad you are writing these words. It helps you to remember these special conversations and you can always return to these texts as a reminder of the celebration of Audrey.💕
Jennifer: I wish someone would have at least taken a photo. I don’t know if I would ever see these kids again. One thing everyone agreed on is that Audrey never talked about her illness/suffering. Her long time physical therapist talked about all her internal scars from fifteen years of surgeries. They caused her so much pain, since she was little, and no one would know unless you saw her scans. She worked hard with PT to lessen the pain, but she never complained.
Jennifer: Funny story from the Westminster college counseling director. He told us he was invited, along with 200+ college counselors from across the country to visit Notre Dame (where Audrey attended college as a first semester freshman). It was his first time visiting ND. The admissions director immediately came to him and introduced herself. She told him she was so thankful Westminster sent Audrey to them. Throughout the day various staff from admissions and other departments came to talk to him about Audrey. He said he lost count after 12. He said he was treated as a VIP because of Audrey.
Me: Might I write a blog with these texts, helping you to remember the love and admiration Audrey inspired every day of her earthly life?
Jennifer: Sue, you never have to ask. You always put everything more beautiful and more meaningful than I can.
Me: Wonderful. I will be open to the Spirit’s movement. I think so many in our community have been touched by the Spirit of God living so boldly in Audrey. Thanks for your permission to share her ongoing legacy. We all feel like VIPs with Audrey. Her blessing knows no bounds. She gently shares the endless love of God, always and forever, with every life she touches.💐
Jennifer: This song came to me in June via Spotify suggestion. I really like it. Going Home by Sissel.
Me: I love this song, Jennifer. Absolutely love it. One to revisit often, for sure.
Our bodies are like a tent that we live in here on earth. One day, that home will come to an end. But we know that God will give us a new home. It is not a house that a human builder has built. God has built it for us in heaven and we will live there for ever (2 Corinthians 5:1, EASY).
…Sue…
