“I enjoy the spring more than the autumn now. One does, I think, as one gets older.” ~ Virginia Woolf

If you have children, you know how special people are to you who simply love your children.  Jerry and Judy were like that for me.  When our kids were little, they sat at the end of the row where we sat at every assembly.  They were an older couple, slightly older than my parents.

Judy was always so good to help me with the kids whenever Jeff served in the public assembly.  She would just move over and grab a child, never waiting to be asked.  The kids loved Jerry and Judy because of the interest they showed in their little lives.  When we were making the guest list for Caleb's 2nd birthday party, he immediately said he wanted to include them - and they came.

Caleb usually wore a suit to worship when he was little, and Judy would always ask him if he had any money in his pockets.  She thought every little boy should have some, so she would always give him change to keep in his pocket.  She was also involved with the kids' Bible classes when they were small, and they loved having Mrs. Judy as their teacher.

In addition to her love for my kids, Judy also set a great example for them of serving older people.  She lovingly cared for a couple of older, widowed ladies in the congregation who did not have family nearby.  She spent a lot of time with them, not only selflessly caring for them, but seeking their wisdom and knowledge through Bible study with them.

We moved away from Jerry and Judy when the kids were ages 5 and 3, but Judy kept in touch with them.  Even to this day, our kids get individual Christmas cards from Jerry and Judy - something they began about 17 years ago.  And while the kids' memories of them are vague, they have always felt their love.

Jerry and Judy taught me how much natural affinity a mother can have for someone who loves her children.  They showed me by their example that everyone benefits from forming friendships and paying attention to both the very young and the very old.  They have had a lasting influence for good, and gave my children one of their first lessons in service.  My kids lives have been enriched by Jerry and Judy, and I am thankful to God for allowing our paths to cross.