On Monday Carol reached the 80 year milestone (a few months ahead of me - an age gap of which I have made much as a younger man!) Necessarily because of Carol's poor health, it has been low key with a couple of meals shared with friends, including our church home group meeting in the large garden of one of our members. One, a professional signwriter, had designed a large poster blazoning Carol's birthday which was pasted to a window with balloons. Senior fish and chips were enjoyed followed by delicious sweets and a dairy free chocolate cake with unblowable candles! It was such a kind generous time with all these newish friends (we joined the church about 8 years ago!) giving their best.
One of them had earlier given Carol an attractively wrapped gift which looked like containing a picture. Indeed it did. To our delight Lesley had written a poem set in a delightful design.
For Carol on her 80th birthday.
Eighty years, and each a thread
In woven grace where angels tread
A Pastor's wife, yet more than that-
A heart where love and wisdom sat
With ink and flourish, line by line,
Your calligraphy made words divine.
And every scarf around your neck
A gentle, artful warmth reflects.
You've lit more candles than we know,
Not just with wax, but kindness' glow.
Your table, open, wide, and true,
Has welcomed many, just like you.
For those in need, you took their part,
With steady hands and servant's heart
Now eighty rings this lovely chime,
A life well lived, a sacred time.
So here's to Carol, graceful, bright,
A beacon still, a shining light.
Lesley has only known Carol a very few years but she's captured so much about her character, calligraphy, love of colourful matching scarves, hospitality giver, and compassion with kindness that has marked Carol's life. I know many of you readers won't know her but you can imagine my pride and gratitude for this creative tribute.