Strength, Gentleness, and Inspiration in Difficult Times

Connie, although going through a challenging time in her life, had other special moments that still warm my heart.


One time, shortly before the Michigan surgery, she was sitting in her special recliner. The steroids had made her double in size. She needed much help from her husband to move around. The amazing thing I remember is how well he understood Connie.

See, the brain tumor was in the front part of her brain, which effected her speech. She had gotten to the point when she tried to say something, something entirely different would come out. Her husband was the only person who could understand her.

I remember hearing Connie saying something like, “Purple dot on something.” I don’t really remember her words exactly, but I had no idea what she was saying. Immediately John said, “Oh, you want toast with grape jelly on it.” How did he know that? Wow!

Another favorite saying Connie had, that I thought was so beautifully precious was “Connie’s got to do the dance.” Her leg would start shaking. That was her way of telling us she had to go to the bathroom. The memory still brings a smile to my face, remembering her kindness, her gentleness, and her friendship. She will always be so special to me. She taught me to cope with this, to face it with a sense of humor, to depend upon a strength greater than any of us, and to take life in stride making the best of each day. Who has inspired you?