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Sessler/ THE GIVING TREE

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CHAPTER 1 -- COMING HOME

Allison McFarland shuttered, as she splashed the icy cold water on her face. Got to

wake up, she mumbled to herself. Its going to be a long dayand its already been a

very long night.

Her mother, Mary McFarland, drifted in and out of a restless, painful sleep until the

pain medication finally kicked in around 4 in the morning. By then, it was pointless for

Allison to try and get back to sleep. She had to be up at 6 anyway and the two hours

would only serve to make her feel worse.

Allison turned on the shower and lingered, as the hot water soothed the aching

muscles in her neck that screamed for sleep. Her body longed to luxuriate in a hot,

steamy, bubble bath, but she knew that was a pipe dream. Perhaps she could persuade

Jenny to come spend the night and spell her in the next few days. Not likely, she thought,

glumly. And after all, there didnt seem to be much time left anyway.

The cancer that mercilessly ate away at Mary McFarlands body had reached the

terminal stage many months ago, when Allison decided to temporarily give up her job in

the city and come home to be with her mother. They had always been close and Allison

was not about to let

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her mother die in a cold, sterile hospital room. Her sister, Jenny already had her hands

overfull, what with John and the twins. Much as she loved her mother, Jenny just didnt

have the time or extra energy required to care for their dying mother. Truth be told,

Allison felt a small amount of jealousy for the frenetic pace of Jennys life that was

separated from the smell of death that surrounded her mother. Not that being besieged by

a husband and two active three year olds was anythingthat Allison ever envied before.

She knew that she just wasnt the maternal type. Allisons idea of success, for herself that

is, lay in the city, sitting at a high-powered meeting with an assistant running to do her

bidding. Up until now, however,she was the one doing the running and it was her boss

doing the bidding. Well, there would be plenty of time to get back to itafter; after it was

over at home.

For now, Allison would be here to help ease her mother to as comfortable a death as

possible. Every day, the hospice nurse would come and bathe Mary, give her a back rub

and evaluate her pain and the medications that seemed to be losing their effectiveness.

Allison was told that the next step would be a morphine pump. She knew that once that

happened, her mother would be drifting in and out of consciousness, until she slipped into

the final coma. There was so little time left and as weary as she was, Allison was not

ready to let her mother go yet.

And then there was Angela, God bless her. Sweet Angela Federico from next door

would

stay with her mother on the days Allison went to work as the fill-in, part-time

administrative assistant to Pastor Henry at Maplewoods Grace Christian Church. It

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sounded like an impressive title, particularly if you were given to being impressed by

titles, but basically it was

just a glorified secretary. She started working for Pastor Henry, as more of a favor that

anything. Betty Cooper had been church secretaadministrative assistant for 35 years.

She was known as the churchs right hand woman. Without her, Pastor Henry, as well as

those who went before him, would never have survived. With swift and merciless

precision, Betty ran the office, as well as Pastor Henry. When she abruptly gave her

notice to move to Florida to care for an ailing sister, Pastor Henry was left reeling. Who

on earth would take her place? Who on earth couldtake her place? Who on earth would

wantto? Allison laughed to herself and ran a hand through her hair as she realized that

God truly must have a sense of humor.

As she slipped on the tailored navy blue dress that fit in perfectly in the city, but

seemed just a bit too formal for Maplewood, she could feel the beginnings of a dull

headache forming at the back of head. Reaching in the medicine cabinet for an aspirin,

she heard her mother.

Coming, Mom, she called out as she swallowed the pill with a handful of water

from the sink.

Her mother was attempting to pull herself up in bed. Her thin, bony fingers were

wrapped weakly around the cold metal rail of the hospital bed that the hospice nurse

arranged for, several days before.

Let me help you, Mom, Allison said gently, as she slid her arm behind her mothers

back. She cringed as she felt her shoulder blades through the thick flannel nightgown that

was damp with sweat. After propping her mother up with pillows, she went to get a

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washcloth to wash her face.

Angela will be here in a few minutes, Mom, she said as she wiped the moisture

from her mothers face. Once, not so long ago, she had been a lovely woman, she

thought, as she looked into the half-vacant, sunken eyes. They had been a clear sapphire

color that sparkled when she was excited. Now they were a watery, dull blue filled with

pain and misery. Oh God, why are you letting this happen? She is so young; this isnt fair,

she agonized.

At the moment, Allison was very angry at God. Up until the time her mother took ill,

she had a relatively pleasant relationship with Him. She would visit His house on most

Sundays and holidays. She observed His rules and regulations, as best she could, human

as she was. Allison considered herself a good Christian; she never lied or cheated or

murdered. So why would God take her mother at such a young age and in such a cruel

way? She thought it only natural that she felt angry.

And the irony of it all. Here she was on her way to work at the church, leaving behind,

at least temporarily, the fast track to success. She knew that her place was at her mothers

side; she was less sure that she was supposed to be working for Pastor Henry.

The knock at the kitchen door rattled her back to reality. Allison went to let Angela in.

She was a sight for sore eyes, literally.

Angela was the only daughter of Joe and Sophia Federico, who lived in the house next

to her mother for the past 25 years. Her name suited her; at 18, she had an angelic

personality and nature. Graduating with honors just the week before, she had earned a full

scholarship to a local nursing school that she would be starting in September. Allison

doubted that her mother would linger more than a month, long before Angela would start

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classes.

She had a bad night, Allison said as she put the kettle on for her mothers tea. No

matter how sick her mother felt, she would never forego her customary Earl Gray. Even

when the nausea prevented her from actually drinking it, the clinking of the silver spoon

in the fine bone china cup with pink flowers, would comfort her. Allison knew it brought

back fond memories of when she was young and healthy. Small comfort, she thought,

with a hint of bitterness.

Allison watched Angela take the tea in to her mother as she picked up her car keys and

purse left and set out for the church. She left instructions for Michelle Duncan, the

hospice nurse to call her when she arrived, to discuss Marys pain meds. She didnt think

either one of them would be able to stand another night like the last one. Most of all,

Allison was determined she would not let her mother suffer any more than was necessary.

As she pulled into the parking lot of the church, she could feel the aspirin kicking in

and the pain subside. She certainly had no right to complain after what her mother was

going through. After all what was a little lack of sleep and a headache, in the grand

scheme of things.

Morning, Pastor, she said as she sat down at her desk.

You look awful, Allison, Pastor Henry said, as he came out to her desk with a

handful of papers.

Thanks, Pastor, she said lightheartedly. She liked Jack Henry. He was kind and

understanding, definitely admirable and godly qualities in a man of the cloth. Being a

family man

was most important to him and his children were well-loved. If she everwere to marry, it

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would have to be a man like Jack Henry.

Rough night with your mom? he asked sympathetically, already knowing the

answer.

Allison just nodded her head, as her eyes misted up.

If theres anything Ruth and I can do

Thank you, Pastor. Its all right, really. Im going to have the nurse start the morphine

pump. Mom hasnt wanted it up until now because it will make her sleep most of the

time, but the pain is getting to be unbearable.

The phone rang as if on cue.

Good morning. Grace Christian Church, this is Allison.

Hi, Allison. Its Michelle. Angela said for me to call.

Hi, Michelle. Moms pain was pretty bad last night. We talked about it and she says

shes ready for the next step, Allison said with sadness in her voice.

Okay, Ill call Dr. Richards and make the arrangements. I know this very hard on

you, Allison. Remember, Im here for you, too, Michelle said gently.

I know, Michelle and thanks. I dont think I could get through any of this if it werent

for you and Angela, Allison said heavily. Ill be home around 2:00.

Thats perfect. It will take me that long to get everything set up. Ill be back with the

equipment and Ill show you how it works. I know this is tough, but shell be so much

more comfortable.

And unconscious, Allison thought sorrowfully.

After she hung up the phone, she looked through the papers Pastor Henry left on her

desk.

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There were several letters she needed to type up immediately and the rest could be done

later. Most of the correspondence was related to fund-raising. It was summertime and a

good portion of those parishioners who tithed regularly mailed in their checks, even if

they were away; but some of the other church-goers offerings dropped off due to

vacations. They didnt necessarily make up the missed weeks when they returned. It was

just enough to make a small dent in the budget that required Pastor Henry to seek funds

elsewhere. Fortunately for the church, he was very good at everything he did and even

the tightest of wallets would usually loosen at his appeal.

It was a pretty quiet morning and she was done with the work by noon.

Im heading out to see Hazel Dearborn, Pastor said, as he came out of his office.

Why dont you head out and get some rest?

If only she could, she thought. He was unaware that it was more peaceful at work than

it was at home. It was her only real respite and even though she was exhausted, she was

enjoying the solitude.

Thanks, maybe I will, she said, evasively. She really hoped to kick off her shoes

under the desk when he was gone and have herself a good cry.

Jack Henry unrolled the windows of his car before he got in. It was just about twelve

and the midday sun was high overhead. Even though it was early June, it was more

humid than usual. He was glad he wore a light short-sleeve shirt under his sport coat.

Hazel Dearborn was always cold, so he knew her room at the assisted living center would

be stifling; the air-conditioner

would be off, the window closed, and she would have a knitted shawl across her

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shoulders.

Visiting the shut-ins was an important part of his job and he was particularly good at it.

Most people disregarded the elderly, especially those who were invalids or disabled. Even

most of his flock, unless it was their own family member, tended to forget about the

parishioners that were unseen week after week. He always made sure that he mentioned

them in weekly prayer, but only a special few took notice that it wasnt just a cursory

mention of the forgotten. And he really didunderstand. He was a husband and father of 3

growing kids himself and sometimes there was little enough time to give his own family,

much less to a crotchety old woman constantly complaining about her rheumatism. Jack

Henry wondered that if it wasnt part of his job, would he be driving in the sweltering car

to see the old woman? Hed like to think he would, but in the pit of his stomach, he

suspected he might be like all the rest; good intentions, but nothing else.

Before Allison left the office, her red-brimmed eyes stinging from her release of

emotions, she called her sister, Jenny. She needed to let her know about her mothers

worsening state.

Hi, Jenny.

Hey, Allison. I was hoping to stop over tonight after John gets home. Is that okay?

Jenny could hear the exhaustion and distress in her sisters voice.

That would be great. Mom is getting worse and the nurse is coming by this afternoon

with a morphine pump.

Oh, was all Jenny could say. She knew that it wouldnt be much longer after that.

She was very close to her mother as Allison was, and a great sadness overcame her. Jenny

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was younger than Allison by two years and had much more of her mothers personality,

but Allison had a closer bond with her. She never really understood how it was that

Allison was the independent, intellectual type like their dad and yet she got on much

better with their mother, who was so different from her. Patrick McFarland, their dad,

died three years before his wife took sick. A heart attack they told them, when he was

found slumped over in his car in the office parking garage. Everyone was shocked; he

was only 58 and in good health as far as they knew. Mary McFarland was devastated.

They had been married for 30 years and unlike some people married that long, they were

still very much in love. Pat still brought her favorite pink carnations every now and then,

for no other reason than to say I still care; and Mary would bake his favorite raisin tea-

bread on Saturday to have with his coffee on Sunday morning before church. It was never

done out of duty or habit; it was done out of love. So after Pat died, Mary pined away for

quite some time. Then out of the blue, something snapped her out of it; Allison and Jenny

never found out what it was. They just knew that all of a sudden, after secluding herself

in her house for over a year, she came to life. And now 4 years later, she was dying.

Where was the fairness?

Should I bring the kids to see her? Jenny asked, thinking that she didnt know how

much longer her mother would be lucid.

I dont think so. Not tonight. Im not sure how this pump thing works and how shell

react to it. I know last night she would have done anything to ease the pain, but I dont

know if shes

really ready for this, Allison said with thoughts of Jennys rambunctious twins raising a

raucous.

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Okay, Ill see you sometime after 7, Jenny replied.

Allison locked the church before she left. She wondered what happened to the days of

the unlocked church; the days of sanctuary; the simpler days of people trusting people not

to steal anything they could pawn for a few dollars. Boy, she thought, if I dont get some

sleep soon, I could really get cynical.

Angela was just washing the lunch dishes when Allison walked into the kitchen. She

heard her mothers soft moaning from the other room. Angela shot Allison a helpless

look.

Michelle called and shell be back soon. Your mom really needs more medicine.

Michelle gave her a shot before she left and she slept until just a few minutes ago.

Allison laid her purse down on the kitchen table and walked into her mothers room.

Mary was drifting in and out of a fitful sleep. When she saw her daughter, she smiled

weakly and stretched out her hand. Allison sat down at the side of the bed and stroked her

mothers matted hair. It didnt matter if it was washed every day, after a few hours it

would be tangled with perspiration. Looking at her mothers pained face, she said a silent

prayer that Michelle would arrive soon to start the pump, not that God seemed to listen to

her prayers these days.

Allisons memories drifted back to when she was just a little girl. Every night she

would kneel at her bed and say her prayers; God bless Mommy and Daddy and Jenny and

Grandma Jean and Grandpa Bill and Nana Rita and When she was little, her prayers

were often answered. Once she prayed for a bicycle for her birthday and got a shiny red

two-wheeler;

once she prayed for a talking doll for Christmas and again, she got itnow when she

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prayed, God didnt seem to be listening.

Jennys coming over tonight, Mom, she said.

Good, her mom said in a whisper, as she closed her eyes.

Allison heard voices in the kitchen and knew that Michelle was back. Thank you,

Godwell, maybe he does listensometimes.

Michelle came into the bedroom with her bag and a small plastic box attached to a

thin tube and needle. Allison closed her eyes as Michelle set things up.

MaryMary, its Michelle. Im here with your new medicine, she said, as she lifted

Marys night gown. She wiped her thigh with some alcohol and took the tiny needle out

of the package. She wont feel this, she said to Allison, as she inserted the needle and

taped it to Marys leg. Then she pushed some buttons on the box and explained how to

work it. Allison thought it was easy enough, but wrote everything down anyway, just in

case in the middle of the night she was too groggy to remember.

Michelle stayed for over an hour to assure them, and herself, that the pump was

functioning properly. Mary was finally sleeping comfortably, her breathing slow and

easy. Allison walked Michelle to the kitchen and gave her a hug.

Shell sleep better, but she will still wake up. Shes on a low dose, so dont be afraid

to push the button for an extra dose when she needs it. Right now, its set to allow a bolus

dose every 2 hours if shes in pain. We can increase it as she needs it. Ill be back in the

morning.

Michelle let herself out, as she watched Allison walk back into her mothers room. It

was still very warm outside, so she took off her scrub jacket before she got into her car.

As she turned the key and started the car to head off to her next case, she felt weary; not

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from lack of sleep, but from the emotional strain of helping people die. And it wasnt just

old people. There might be more comfort in that. The heartbreak was in the people who

still had full lives to live; the people like Mary who hadnt even turned 60 yet, who had

grandchildren to love and enjoy.

Especially tough were the children who were taken before they ever had a chance live,

children like Tommy, who at the age of four was taken by leukemia after a year of

tortuous chemotherapy. Michelle believed in Gods mercy and that was what kept her

going. She felt that God used her to help ease her patients to a peaceful death and helped

the families cope with the dying and the grief. As she whispered into a dying persons ear,

its okay to let go,

she would often feel their breath slow against her cheek, slow and then stop. All the years

she had done this job, she had learned many things. One lesson was that some patients

needed to wait for a specific family member or friend to arrive; others needed to wait

until the family left and they were alone; and some neededpermission to die. They would

just hang on until someone said it was okay to let go. She had no idea how it was going

to be for Mary McFarland.

Jenny arrived at 6:30, earlier that Allison expected her. Her mother had slept from the

time Michelle left and Allison laid down to take a nap. She was startled when she woke

up 3 hours later. Jumping to her feet, she ran in, fearing her mother had passed away,

since she never slept

more than an hour at a time. Mary was sleeping peacefully in the bed. Allison breathed a

sigh of relief and went into the kitchen to make herself a sandwich. When she heard her

stomach gurgle, she realized she hadnt eaten since breakfast. As she washed the turkey

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sandwich down with a glass of iced tea, her sister came through the door.

How is she? Jenny asked.

Shes been sleeping since 3:00. Its a miracle, she said, truly meaning it.

How areyou doing?

Better, now that I had a nap. I havent slept much the past couple of nights.

Are you sure you should be working. Isnt it too much for you? Jenny asked

sincerely.

Right now it seems to be the only thing keeping me sane. Pastor Henry says I can

take off any time, whenever I need to. I think things are going to go quickly now, and so

does Michelle.

As much as Allison didnt want to lose her mother, she wanted her suffering to end.

I havent been much help to you, Jenny said regretfully.

Allison reached over and laid her hand on top on Jennys.

You already have your hands full. I know youd do more if you could.

Allison? They both looked to their mothers room, as they heard the soft voice call

out.

Ill go, Jenny said, pushing herself away from the familiar kitchen table.

As long as Jenny could remember, all she wanted was to get married and have

children. She would play for hours on end with her baby dolls; feeding and changing

them, burping and

rocking them. Her parents had given her a small baby carriage for her birthday the year

she turned six, and she played with it, until she was eleven. Then she had to do it on the

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sly because of the teasing she took from her friends who were becoming more interested

in grown-up things like hair styles and movie magazines. Still, Jennys interests were

still the ones that would eventually make her a dedicated wife and mother.

From the time she was three or four, she would love to sit with her elbows propped on

the kitchen table as her mother whipped up some baked treat for supper. Her mother

would slide a small piece of dough across to her and the little girl would joyfully push

and pull on it until it was time to put her misshapen masterpiece on the baking tray with

her moms perfect creations. Jenny would be so excited and when dinner came, she

would take her handiwork and proudly present it to her father. Mary McFarland would

smile, as her husband would fuss over the lop-sided treat and then give his daughter a big

hug. Jenny would beam ear-to-ear, as if she had done a most miraculous thing.

Her sister Allison on the other hand, had no interest in the kitchen at all. She could be

found on the back porch with a stack of notebook paper, pretending to be the teacher to

the many stuffed animals she would line up in her classroom. Mary could never

understand her daughters fascination with paper. It didnt matter what kind it was; lined,

unlined, loose-leaf, tablet, colored. If you wanted to keep Allison happy, all you had to do

was to give her a notebook and pencil and she could stay occupied for hours. Fortunately,

the interest carried over to school and therefore made her an excellent student. The

McFarlands never had to

chastise Allison for not doing her homework. Unlike most children, including her sister

Jenny, Allison would run home and delight in sitting at her desk, pen or pencil in hand,

doing her assignments.

Jenny, on the other hand, would use any excuse to delay the inevitable. It wasnt that

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she wasnt smart enough, because her school grades proved her to be above average; she

just didnt gravitate to it the way her sister did. She would much rather be helping her

mother around the house or lending a hand to her father, as he weeded the garden or

painted the fence. Jenny was actually closer to her dad and he called her his little

sidekick, as they would go off to do chores together. As she got older, Jenny found

herself going to her father for advice or comfort rather than her mother. Dad just seemed

to understand better, she would often think.

When Pat McFarland died so unexpectedly, Jenny was crushed. She was a junior in

the local community college, getting a degree in, what else? but home economics. When

she got the phone call at school, she rushed home to find her mother sobbing in her bed.

There was little she could do, but join her. Not until Allison came home that night from

her new job in the city, were arrangements discussed. Allison too, was distraught, but her

cool-headedness allowed her to take charge and set things in motion for the funeral. It

was that cool-headedness that propelled her to her job in the firm of Wallace & Wallace.

Swiftly, efficiently, yet sorrowfully, Allison made all the arrangements and before her

boss had time to realize she was gone, she was back at her desk. It wasnt that Allison

wasnt grieving. She was just able to grieve and go on with her career plans at the same

time. Her father would have understood. They both had the same single-mindedness of

purpose. Its what made Pat McFarland a success in his business and what would

ultimately make Allison a success in hers.

Wallace & Wallace was a small, but impressive marketing firm in the city. They hired

Allison based on her very extensive resume and completely professional demeanor. Since

it was a small office started by two young brothers, many of the applicants came dressed

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in casual office attire, assuming that the Wallaces preferred their employees to dress

more modern. To Allisons benefit, they were wrong. Peter and David Wallace were very

savvy businessmen and knew that to woe and win the more established older accounts,

you needed a very conservative and polished image. Allison McFarland was just what

they were looking for.

After graduating with her bachelors degree in business, she took a job with a

Maplewood garden and feed store. When she started she was little more than a glorified

go-fer, but within the year, she had become invaluable, as their newly promoted office

manager. George Lewis had started Lewis Garden & Feed more than 30 years before and

it was a small, but prosperous business. It had, however, lagged behind the times when it

came to modernizing. Georges wife Ellie did the bookkeeping by hand for all the years

she was alive. When she passed away shortly after Allison started working for him,

George was at a loss to make sense of what turned out to be her unique and mystifying

method. In a desperate measure, he asked Allison to help and to his absolute amazement,

she swiftly and proficiently organized the office into a modern, computerized system.

Barely 22, her aptitude for management was formidable. When she gave her notice

several years later, he was very sorry to lose her, but he knew her

ambition and talent would thrive well in the city. Allison McFarland had a vision of her

future and George Lewis knew she would succeed at anything she set her mind to. And

what she wanted was to work in the high prestige firm of Wallace & Wallace.

Her first interview was with Peter Wallace, the older of the brothers. He was tall and

thin with a narrow, watchful face that could set you on edge until you came to know his

gentle nature. His eyes would never leave your face when you spoke and Allison tried not

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to let her nervousness show. When she was called back for a second interview, David

Wallace was also there. She was able to relax some in his presence. As quiet and vigilant

as Peter was, David was just the opposite. If you didnt know they were brothers, it

would be hard to connect the two. David Wallace was shorter by at least six inches, tan

and muscular with dark wavy hair and playful gray eyes. His nature was high-spirited and

it was obvious that he was the deal-maker of the pair. They made her an offer at the end

of the interview and even though she was composed and professional with her

acceptance, her heart raced with exuberance. This job would allow her to make the big

move to the city and all that went with it.

As much as she loved Maplewood, she knew that she was destined to live a different

sort of life than her parents and sister did. Jenny had already realized her dreams, as soon

as she graduated college. She married her high-school sweetheart, John Morgan right

after graduation and they set up house in a sweet little cape cod on Evergreen Lane.

Shortly thereafter, she found herself with, not one child, but twotwins; one girl, one

boy. Her life was fulfilled and complete, while Allison was still upwardly mobile with

many rungs to climb.

Mary McFarland was sad to see her daughter move away, but she was never the kind

of mother to hold tight apron strings. She knew her daughter Allison had a restless and

ambitious nature and would succeed in her chosen profession. She would never get

distracted from her goal. Still, she felt such sorrow that Allison craved gratification from

the outside and didnt yet realize that there was only one source of true fulfillment. Mary

prayed that after she was gone,

her legacy and hersecretwould help her daughter find that source.

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CHAPTER 2 -- THE CALLING

As Jack Henry pulled into the Maplewood Home, he said a small prayer that his visit

with Hazel would bring her comfort. He slipped on the sport coat that he had removed

and laid carefully across the back seat. As he picked up his travelbible, as he liked to call

it, he said another small prayer for tolerance.

The lobby was cool from the air-conditioning and a welcome respite from the outside

humidity.

Hello, Pastor, Emily Campbell greeted him from the reception desk.

Hi, Emily. Here to see Mrs. Dearborn today, he said, as he signed his name to the

customary register.

Yes, I know. Hazels already called out here twice to see if you arrived yet, she

laughed knowingly.

Jack swallowed hard. It appeared that it might be a tough visit; she was already

impatient for him to arrive.

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Good luck, Emily said sympathetically. She knew first hand how trying Hazel

Dearborn

could be.

Jack knocked tentatively at Hazels half-closed door. One would neverpresume to just

walk in on Hazel, even if you were expected. Not if one wanted to leave with ones head

still attached.

Come in, Pastor, he heard her annoyed voice answer.

Good afternoon, Hazel, he said amiably, as he sat down in the flowered peach chair

next to hers.

Good afternoon, indeed. I expected you half an hour ago, she snapped.

Im sorry, Hazel. I had to make a stop first, he said with such regret in his voice that

he could see her visibly soften. With it, his heart softened, too. How alone she was in this

room. She had no-one else to visit, but him. Her husband Harry had passed away more

than three years before, after 60 years of marriage. They had never been blessed with

children, so Hazel fulfilled her maternal instincts by being one of the churchs longest

serving Sunday School teachers. While Harry was still alive and she was still physically

able, her enthusiasm for teaching the little ones about Gods love and salvation never

dimmed. She was beloved and there was a large retirement party for her when she was

forced to give it up. For the first few years, she would have regular visitors to the Home,

but as the years passed and memories and appreciation faded, they grew less and less

until now he was practically her sole contact with the church. Jack wondered if it was her

acerbic attitude that caused the decline in visitors or vice-versa.

How are you feeling today, Hazel? he asked.

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My hips giving me a lot of trouble the past few days, she responded.

Sorry to hear that Hazel. How about if we do some reading in Philippians, perhaps

chapter 4, he said, hoping to help her to rejoice in the Lord. As he looked over at her,

he saw a single tear roll down the wrinkled cheek.

I miss Harry so, she said sadly and uncharacteristically. She never talked about the

past or reminisced. They usually spent their time together reading scripture interspersed

with her complaints about her aches and pains, or how Mrs. Murphy, the Homes cook,

couldnt make a decent pot roast for Sunday dinner. Jack Henry often wondered why

Hazel never talked about Harry. It seemed that she lived only in the very unpleasant

present.

He was such a wonderful man, she said softly.

Yes, he was a pillar of our church, Jack said truthfully. He had been a deacon for

more than 30 years and was well-respected and relied on for many church activities.

He was much more than that, Hazel snapped. Then her face softened and she

apologized. Im sorry, Pastor. Its just that he was so much more than just a valuable

church member. He was a wonderful husband. Harry was kind and gentle and

understanding. He would have made an excellent father. It was such a terrible

disappointment that God did not bless us with any children.

Jack was stunned. In all the years that he had come to visit Hazel, she had neveronce

discussed such intimate feelings or details of her life. He was speechless. Luckily, she

continued on.

I often sit here and think how different our life would have been if we didhave

children.

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Harry and I thought about adopting, but decided that we would devote our time and

energy to the church. There were so many little ones who needed us there. But still, now

there isnt anyone to remember Harry, except for meand of course, you, she added.

It broke Jacks heart to listen to her. She had given herself to one man and one church.

Now she sat here alone in her room, widowed by one and forgotten by the other.

Instinctively, he reached over and took her hand. He knew it was pointless to dispute the

facts, so he didnt even try. She was a sharp woman and she wasnt looking for

consolation. He sensed she just needed to talk about it with someone and he was the most

likely candidate.

They sat silently for some time before she offered him some lemonade. After the both

had a glass and some less formal chit-chat, they said a prayer together and he left her

room.

He stopped at the desk and asked Emily Campbell for some information that he wrote

down in his notepad for future reference. The now oppressive heat greeted him, as he left

the Maplewood Home; he took his jacket off again and headed into town to pick up some

ice cream for tomorrows celebration. It was Sarahs 6th birthday and there would be 8

little girls, as well as her two brothers, gathered to celebrate the occasion. Since he knew

he would have to head straight home so the rocky road and chocolate chip wouldnt

become a puddle in the bag, he stopped at the church first, to check for messages. Allison

had left for the day, but had left a stack of correspondence for him to read and sign. She

was so incredibly efficient. Jack was really going to miss her when she went back to the

city to her regular job. When Betty Cooper left abruptly, he was in a real quandary about

replacing her. On one hand, he could have found an older member of the church to take

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her place; and on the other hand, he was looking at her departure as an opportunity to

update Bettys antiquated system with something more modern. Having been in charge of

the church office for what seemed forever, she was very efficient, but not willing to

upgrade either her skills or the equipment into the computer age. She would just shake

her head and click her tongue, if he brought it up. It was a small enough church that

everything could be handled on her aging word processor or in neat notebooks she

handled with much care. The problem was that when she left, he discovered she was the

only one who could really figure out her system. He daily thanked God for Allison

McFarland, who threw him a life jacket on her arrival back home. Of course, he was very

upset over the reason she needed to return. Certainly, Mary McFarlands illness was

devastating for her family, as well as for him. What was he to do without Mary? Who was

going to take her special place? She was a remarkable woman who had done Gods work

on earth, especially in the past few years since He was bound by a promise not to tell

anyonenot even her daughters. What willthey do when they find out, he thought. Well,

it wouldnt be long now, he suspected.

Im home, he called, out as he let himself in the front door. Sarah came running.

Daddy! she squealed. Did you know tomorrows my birthday? she said, jumping

up and down.

It IS? he joked. Well, now isnt that something? Are you going to do anything

special?

Daddy! she said, as she made a face. Its myparty!

Is it? Oh, well. That is pretty special, he said, as he lifted her up by his free arm and

she hugged him tight about the neck.

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Jack walked into the kitchen and lowered his daughter into one of the kitchen chairs.

Then

he took the already softening ice cream from the plastic bag and put it into the freezer.

Where are the boys? he asked.

Theyre out playing at Joshuas. Mommy is downstairs.

As if on cue, Ruth Henry opened the basement door with a laundry basket in her arms.

Jack, I didnt hear you, she said, as she laid the basket on the table and went to kiss

her husband. They had been married for 15 years and except for the occasional bump in

the road, had a very happy and content life together.

Did you get the ice cream? she asked, as she picked the laundry basket back up.

Ice cream? Can I have some? Sarah asked eagerly.

Its for a special someones party tomorrow, Sarah, Jack said.

Oh! Okay, she said, as she slithered out of the chair and ran out the back door to

play in the yard.

Her parents laughed as she disappeared just as quickly as she came in. Sarah was the

youngest of their three. Noah, 10, was a typical rough and tumble sort of boy, with all the

usual scraped knees and worms in the pocket that went with it. Isaac, their second, was

far more the sensitive, thoughtful boy of 8 and much preferred a good comic book to a

game of football. And Sarah, well what could be said of Sarah? She was a bubbling ball

of energy that could have you laughing just by the expressions on her face. She was the

child that looked most like her mother and Jack Henry was grateful for that. His wife had

a natural beauty that needed little embellishment. Her smooth ivory skin was touched

with just a hint of pink in the cheeks, unless

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she was embarrassed or angry, then they would blaze scarlet. She had soft raven hair that

just skimmed her shoulders and deep gray eyes that sparkled when she was excited. Sarah

was a miniature of Ruth except that her hair was long and kept contained in braids or

pigtails.

Dinner will be ready around six, Ruth said, as Jack followed her upstairs. He had

taken the basket from her in the kitchen and it was just one of the many small things he

did that made him an enviable husband. Jack Henry was known to fold and put away

laundry without even being asked. Ruth never took him for granted, well, almostnever.

After all, she wasnt perfect and neither was he. But they loved each other and made a

family together. Concessions were made on both their parts over the years, and they

learned to work well together. The congregation at Grace Church felt blessed when the

Henrys came to Maplewood.

Dinner was the usual mix of banter and conversation between the Henrys and their

children. Noah had tales of games played and won; Isaac, of stories read and trees

climbed; and well, Sarah

After the children said their prayers and were kissed and tucked in bed, Jack and Ruth

settled down in the living room. Usually, Jack would be amassing notes for his sermon at

the desk in the corner, while Ruth sat knitting or reading on the couch. Tonight, Ruth

noticed that he dawdled uncharacteristically and then closed his notebook to come and sit

next to her. She saw that he looked tired. She reached over and started to rub his neck.

She could feel the tension in his shoulders ease, as she massaged them.

Thanks, he said appreciatively.

Want to talk about it? she asked. Ruth was always there for him to unload his

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burdens. She was never too busy, although occasionally a little too tired.

I saw Hazel Dearborn today, he said wearily.

She knew that Hazel could wear anyone down, but it took a lot to get to Jack. She

herself would make a visit to her several times a month to bring a home baked treat, and

was always glad when it was time to leave. There was just something about her that made

it difficult. After you listened to her laundry list of complaints well, there wasnt much

else.

Then Jack told her of his visit and Ruth found herself sobbing softly in his arms. She

pictured Hazel and Harrys barren life and tried to envision hers, without their 3 children.

How disappointing it must have been. She felt terrible that she hadnt had more

compassion for the lonely old woman who had nothing but Jacks visits to cheer her.

Oh Jack. What can we do? We must dosomethingfor her, Ruth said, sincerely.

Yes. Thank you for understanding. I had an idea. I checked and her birthday is in

July. I was thinking that we should have a party for her, a surprise. And we should invite

as many of her old Sunday school kids that we can find. Emily Campbell said we can use

the Homes reception hall. What do you think? he asked tentatively.

JACK! Thats a great idea! I think she would be so touched to know that she is

remembered and appreciated. I can have the ladies bible study help with the calls and

invitations. We can have the Sunday school children draw pictures and write verses to

decorate the room, Ruth rattled on.

It touched Jacks heart to see her embrace Hazels pain and help do something about

it. Of course, knowing Ruth, he would have expected nothing less. Since Sarahs party

was already prepared for, they spent the rest of the evening planning for the surprise

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birthday party for Hazel Dearborn.

The next morning, Jack was much relieved that the previous days heat had

dissipated. There was a coolness in the morning air, as he went out for his morning run

before Ruth and the kids woke up. He had always been an early riser and fortunately, his

wife was a heavy sleeper and he could quietly slip out of bed without disturbing her. Jack

used the solitude of the dawn and the beauty of the sunrise to spend time alone with God.

They would often have their most intimate talks when he was running and he could feel

his heart beating against his chest. The pounding would often correspond with the rhythm

of his prayers. This morning, he had the McFarlands on his mind and on his heart. He

prayed for mercy for Mary; for comfort for Allison and Jenny. Then he added a special

prayer for Marys bequest. Her family didnot know and wouldnot know until after her

death about her gift.

Ruth was at the kitchen stove mixing up some eggs when Jack made it back home,

sweaty from his run.

Youre up early, he said as he gave her a quick kiss.

The party, you know. I figure Sarah will be bouncing in here any minute, ready to go

and Ill have to keep her contained until this afternoon, Ruth laughed. Jack knew she

was right.

Sarah was a handful on normal days, but on her birthdayher exuberance would be

uncontainable.

It was Saturday and he had arranged to have just a few church errands that morning so

he would be available to help Ruth with the pre-party arrangements. After he showered

and dressed, Jack went back into the kitchen to find everyone gathered at the table. Ruth

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was dishing out the scrambled eggs as the toast that was piled on a plate was being

passed from Isaac to Noah.

DADDY! Its my birthday! Sarah cried.

I know, sweetheart. Happy birthday! he said, as he bent down and picked her up in

his arms. He gave his jubilant daughter a big sloppy kiss, as she hugged his neck. Are

you ready for your party? already knowing the answer.

Im going to wear the new pink dress Mommy made for me and Mommys going to

put new ribbons in my hair and and she went on and on. Jack just smiled at his wife

who gave so much to being a wife and mother. He should tell her that more often, he

thought.

After breakfast, Jack walked next door to his office. He was very grateful for the

house provided for them by the church and its convenient location, although there were

times when their privacy was invaded by an overly distraught or overly zealous

parishioner that would knock on his door at some inappropriate time of night with a

trivial disturbance. But he knew that in his role as Gods assistant, there was nothing that

was considered trivial. Not to God.

As he sat at his desk and pulled out his notepad of to-do things, he thought of Mary

McFarland. He had stopped over several days before and he knew it wouldnt be much

longer.

In his 13 years as pastor, he had come face to face with death on multiple occasions. No

matter what the circumstance, it was always hardest on the family. Even when they could

rejoice that their loved one was going home to be with the Lord, they still grieved the loss

in their own hearts. It was only human nature. He knew that if he lost Ruth or one of the

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kids, he would feel the same.

He made a mental note to stop at Marys before the party.

Good morning, Pastor, Allison said brightly, as she answered the door.

Well, you certainly look better this morning, he said, as he entered the kitchen.

She had a restful night. The new medicine helped her sleep. Any fear she had about

increasing her mothers medication quickly dissolved with the efficacy of the new pump.

Her mothers breathing was calm and easy, as she slept almost the entire night without

the usual fitful tossing and moaning. And Allison was pleased that her mother woke

refreshed, if not somewhat drowsy, and asked for some breakfast.

Is she awake? Jack asked, bible in hand.

In and out, but go on in. She always loves your visits. Ill make some tea.

Jack walked into the room that housed the hospital bed and his friend, Mary. She lay

propped by pillows with a thin sheet covering her thin body. It was not too long ago that

she would bounce into his office, excited about her new mission and they would make

plans together; plans that no one would know about except the two of them. Soonall

too soon, her daughters would know. There was no way around it.

Mary, he said quietly, laying his hand on hers. He could see her eyes flicker beneath

the thin lids and a tiny smile form at the corners of her mouth.

Pastor, she said, faintly. Her skin had become translucent and he noticed her fingers

were icy cold. He closed his eyes and prayed again, for mercy.

You look better today, Mary, he said. What he meant was that she looked more

comfortable.

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It wont be much longer, Pastor, she said, peacefully. She had long since made her

peace with God. As far as she was concerned, death of the body was inevitable. She was

confident that she was going home for eternity. Her prayers were for her family; that

they would not grieve her passing, but rejoice for her. But Mary was especially worried

about Allison. Jenny had her husband and children to fill her heart, but Allison didnt

seem to have anything. She knew that Allisons relationship with God was superficial, at

best, and there was no one to help guide her, love her, comfort her. In her quest to climb

to the top of the business world, she feared Allison had lost the softness that would let

God in. Of course, she knew that God could change all that. He changed it in her after

Patrick died and she was despondent and bitter. She remembered the night she awoke in

the middle of the night in a cold sweat as she heard the words, Mary, I have something

for you to do. She was rattled from sleep and found herself on her knees. Yes, God, she

responded silently. That was the night He changed her heart and filled it with His

mission. From that time until now, her life had a singular purpose, with the help of her

friend Jack Henry. Now she was to trust the Lord to pass on that mission. Could it be

that he would give it to Allison? Would she understand? Would she be angry with her

mother and think she was crazy? She trusted the Lord and she trusted Jack Henry. Their

secret would not be secret much longer, she knew.

Jack had spent more time than he planned with Mary, so when he arrived home there

were already a houseful of little girls running and laughing around Ruths feet. She shot

him a playful glance, as he came through the door. Thanks, she mouthed at him, but he

knew she wasnt really mad. It was obvious she had things well under control and they

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always had an agreement. If his work kept him away, she would take up the slack. Ruth

Henry knew that her husbands calling to ministry had consumed him from the time he

was only 16 and she not only understood it, she admired his devotion to the Lord and all

that went with it. God had given him a gift and she felt honored to share in it. There were

of course, the occasional times when they were prepared for a special trip back home that

had to be cancelled due to a church crisis or parishioners need, that her disappointment

might get the better of her. But those times, to Jack Henrys relief, were few and far

between. All in all, Ruth and Jack Henry were equally yoked and their marriage was a

blessing to them both.

Sarahs party was a great success and there was only a small sliver of cake left at the

end. When the house was quiet again after all the little girls had returned to their homes

and Sarah sat exhausted on the porch surrounded by the birthday treasures from her

friends, Jack helped his wife clean up the debris.

That night, as they both lay exhausted in bed, Ruth asked her husband how his day

went; the first part of the daybefore the party.

I stopped to see Mary McFarland, he responded. I think her time is soon, he said

sadly.

Youll miss her. Shes been a good friend, Ruth said. She didnt know why her

husband and Mary had become such good friends in the past few years, but she knew

they had some special bond concerning a special project. Normally, Jack shared

everything with her regarding the church, as well as anything else. But he never talked

about Marys endeavor, so she didnt pry. He would tell her if he wanted her to know. She

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did think it an odd alignment, but she trusted Jacks judgment and she was the only other

person to know of it.

Ill also miss Allison when she goes back to the city. She has such a gift with the

office. She has started to work on a computer system to organize everything. She is a

genius when it comes to computers. I can understand why she has done so well at her

regular job. I can see her being vice-president of some company before she turns 30.

Maybe you should start looking for a replacement now, before she goes, Ruth said

pragmatically.

Oh, I couldnt. It would be an open acknowledgment that her mother is close to

dying, he said.

Oh Jack. Im sorry. I didnt even think of that. Of course, youre right. That would be

very insensitive, she said, knowing that some other men in his position might be more

inclined to be practical rather than compassionate.

Well cope with it when the time comes, he said, as he kissed her and then drifted

off to sleep.

The Sunday sermon was inspired. Jack felt that Hazel Dearborns situation was

perhaps extreme, but not uncommon. How many people were forgotten over the course of

their lives and how many had left them behind? He could see that the Lord was opening

hearts, as he read the Word and many were led to the alter for prayer after he concluded

with prayer. When the service was over, Jack was deluged with people who had been

touched by Hazel Dearborn at some point in their lives and now were led to give

something back. He had more volunteers than he knew what to do with so he appointed a

committee chairperson to work with Ruth to make the arrangements.

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Julia Emerson had been one of Hazels first Sunday school pupils all those years

before. Now, she herself was a retired school teacher, who had long since forgotten

Hazel. Then Jacks sermon opened her heart and touched on her own particular ache. She

remembered all the students that passed through her own 4th grade class at Maplewood

Elementary and how few had ever stopped back to see her. Julia believed she was a good

teacher and instilled valuable information and values into her pupils, yet where had they

all gone? Except for an occasional Christmas card, she never saw them again. At least she

had her own children and grandchildren and her husband of almost 40 years to fill her

golden years. But poor Hazelshe had no one. Julias heart identified on a very deep

level and she knew she needed to help.

So Julia was to head the committee and work with Ruth to bring together a party that

would gladden the heart of Hazel Dearborn. Well, Jack prayed that it wouldgladden it.

You never could tell with Hazel.

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CHAPTER 3 -- THE PASSING

Allison was so grateful that her mother could be practically free of pain. Every day,

Michelle Duncan would stop by and re-evaluate Marys situation and make the necessary

changes. As the days grew into weeks and the dosages became higher to keep Mary

comfortable, she became less and less conscious. When she drifted into consciousness,

she would feel Allison or Jennys hand on hers and she would smile weakly. Mary was

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surrounded by the love of her daughters and she knew she would be in the presence of

God before long. Now that the pain was no more than a nagging ache that roused her

every so often to connect, perhaps one last time, with her loved ones, she could drift

between reality and eternity with the surety of eternitys existence. Had there ever been

doubt before, there was none now as she was at perfect peace with her maker.

Mary was a practical as she was creative, so she had already made arrangements for

her funeral. Both her daughters were appalled when their mother brought up the

discussion at their last Christmas gathering.

Mother! I dont even want to think about this! Jenny asserted.

Sweetheart, Im sorry, but this is something that needs to be talked about. This last

round of chemotherapy hasnt worked and I dont know how much time there is. I want

you girls to be prepared, Mary said resolutely.

Both daughters sat silently, as they knew their mother was right. The doctors gave

Mary less than a year and Allison had already decided that she would ask for a leave of

absence from Wallace & Wallace when she returned after the holidays. As it turned out,

her mothers condition didnt deteriorate until many months later and she was able to

prepare a fill-in for her absence. That was Allison for you, practical and dedicated to a

fault. She could weather any emotional storm. Her mother worried that she had a wall

around her heart to protect her. She worried that the wall would keep out the good, as

well as the bad.

Allison had never had a serious sweetheart. There had been Bobby Ellison in high

school, but when her friends teased her, calling her Allison Ellison - what an impossible

name - she ended the budding relationship. Allison was far more interested in her studies

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and her business future than a boyfriend anyway.

Once she graduated and was working for George Lewis, her single-minded purpose

took over and she simply didnt have time for dating. And when she settled in her job in

the city, there was an occasional date, usually arranged by a friend. But Allison just

wasnt interested in what they wanted from her. Unlike the other girls in her office, she

did not want to settle down and get married. Maybe someday, way down the road, but

certainly not now.

Allison was completely unaware that she had stolen the heart of David Wallace. She

assumed that with his dashing appearance and winning personality that he had many a

girl swooning after him. Actually, she was right. What she was so blatantly unaware of,

was that he didnt care forany of them. From the first moment he had seen her during the

interview, he was smitten. Her sophisticated elegance and understated beauty caught him

unaware. When his brother, Peter had arranged the meeting, he told him nothing more

than her qualifications. Just like Peter to not see past the pragmatic to the jewel. David

was so taken that he actually thought ofnothiring her. The Wallace brothers had an

agreement; they would not entangle their social and business relationships. So try as he

might to find some fault to dismiss her with, in good conscience, he simply couldnt.

Allison McFarland was perfect for the job. And as time wore on, David knew she was

perfect for him. It was his long range plan to somehow woo and wed her without causing

a great upheaval for his brother. David knew he had time because Allison was so devoted

to her job, there was no room for love. At least that is what he counted on. He also

counted on being able to change that for her, when the time was right. Certainly not

nownow, when her mother was dying. Perhaps when he was there to comfort her in her

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grief

Marys last days were tranquil and calm. Her daughters set up a round-the-clock vigil.

Jenny had her neighbors, the Lyons watch the twins during the day until John came home

from work. Bobby and Ella romped happily with Jacob and Annie Lyons in their

backyard, blissfully unaware of the sad circumstances surrounding the situation.

Allison and Jenny took turns sitting at their mothers bedside, stroking her hair or

reading scripture. They would nap on the couch or in Allisons bed, but they wanted to be

near when the time came.

Jack Henry stopped by each day to say a prayer and give comfort. Allison couldnt put

her finger on it, but she sensed there was something unspoken in his visits. Ruth Henry

would stop by and bring some sandwiches or a casserole for the girls to pick at.

All in all, it was a peaceful death. When it came, both Jenny and Allison were at their

mothers side. Her breathing had slowed over the hours prior and after one last heavy

breath, she was gone. Marys daughters sat on each side each holding one of her hands

and cried. They loved their mother so, and would miss her desperately. Mary McFarland

was a kind loving soul who had left her mark on her daughters and as they would find

outon the many others.

Michelle Duncan came and pronounced the death, filling out paperwork and calling

the funeral home. First, she sat with Allison and Jenny hugging them both and feeling

their grief.

It was the hardest part of her job, no matter how merciful the death. It was the living, left

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to mourn that needed her most at that point.

Bill Foster came for Mary and gave his condolences to the girls. They had been in

several weeks before to finalize the plans their mother had already made. Now that it was

over, they understood the thoughtful thing their mother had done with the pre-planning.

Certainly, it made it less painful to not have to sit picking out caskets. It seemed such a

cold and insensitive thing to

have to do in your greatest moment of grief.

Jack Henry was already prepared for the service. He had thought long and hard on the

eulogy. There was so much that he could say, and yet there was so much he couldnt. He

was bound by promise and he would not betray her confidence. Still, he planned for Mary

McFarland to be remembered by more than just her family.

Allison and Jenny went through the motions in a daze. They had each already picked

out a suitable dress for the wake and another for the funeral. Even though their mother

wanted them to rejoice at her passing on, neither one felt much joy. They did, however,

abide by Marys wish to wait until the morning of the funeral to open a box she left for

them in her dresser. It was so like their mother to do something like that. She often tucked

little notes and messages, as a surprise in their school lunchesmany years ago.

As they sat dressed in their stark, black outfits waiting for the funeral limousine to

pick them up, they took the top off the white cardboard box. Allison picked up the

handwritten card that lay on top of the tissue paper.

To my darling daughters,I know that right now you are

terribly sad, but I

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want you know that at this very moment Iam the happiest

I have ever been. That means I amhappier than the day I

married your father or gave birth to myprecious babies.

God was very good to me and now I willlive with Him

forever. Please remember how happy I amand someday

rejoice for me. I ask you to please wearwhat is in this box

as a symbol to remind you.Your loving mother

Allison stared at Jenny, as tears rolled down their cheeks. Even in death, their mother

sought to comfort them. As Jenny carefully removed the delicate white paper, they saw

two matching purple silk scarves with a tiny dove embroidered on one corner. They both

understood the significance. It was Marys resurrection day and they would wear the

color that would denote that to the other mourners.

After they donned their mothers final gift and had a good cry, they were ready. The

church was filled with friends and relatives who all nodded, as Pastor Henry talked about

Mary McFarlands many godly gifts and the blessing she was to all who knew her.

Though tearful throughout, Allison and Jenny were grateful and proud of being her

daughters. And there was so much more they didntknow.

Ruth Henry had organized the reception in the church hall for after the burial. As

usual, the womens bible study had cooked and baked an array of food for the mourners.

There was always a core group of women that took charge of such things and they did it

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well. Carol Peterson made her tuna noodle casserole; Andrea Beardsley made her

macaroni salad; Monica Harrington baked the prized chocolate brownies. If the family

couldnt be comforted in the knowledge that their loved one was in a better place, they

certainly could ease their pain with a brownie or two. At least thats what Monica

Harrington thought, as she laid the large ceramic platter on the table and then licked a

chocolate crumb from her finger.

Thank you, Pastor, Jenny said, as she shook his hand. John was at her side and the

twins were off in a corner playing under one of the food tables.

She will be missed, he said to her. More than you know, he thought to himself.

It was very hard when Dad died, Allison was saying, but we still had Mom. Did

God really need them both? she said sorrowfully, as she touched the scarf at her neck.

I cant begin to understand why these things happen the way they do, Allison, Jack

was saying. All I know, is that God does have reasons for what He allows to happen.

Someday maybe we will understand what it is. He knew from his years of experience

sitting with the families of the sick and suffering, the grief-stricken, the victims of

senseless tragedy, that everything was part of His plan and even though it didnt make

sense at the time, it would all be revealed in His perfect time. Its what Jack Henry

believed in, or else he would never have been able to bring comfort to others.

Allison shook her head, as if trying to understand and agree, but in reality, she didnt

understand at all. Both her parents dead before they ever reached 60 years old. Too

young, she wanted to scream. Not fair, she wanted to yell. Why? she wanted to ask God.

After everyone left and Jenny was ready to head home with her family, she asked

Allison if she wanted to spend the night with them. She could have the twins bunk

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together and Allison could have the other bed. Or she could crash on the big, comfy sofa.

She didnt think her sister should be alone in her mothers house.

Thanks, Jen. Ill be okay at home, she said, tempted by the offer. She knew it would

be hard to face the empty house, but true to her nature, she wasnt one to run from a

challenge.

As she flipped on the kitchen light, she saw that everything had been put away. She

knew

that Angelina had a key and she suspected that she had come over and straightened up,

God bless her. All her mothers medicine bottles were gone and, mercifully, the hospital

bed had been removed the day after Mary died. Angelina had taken down some flower

vases and filled them with some fresh cut flowers from the garden. She had opened the

windows so the medicinal smell that had lingered in the house was gone.

Allison sat down on the sofa, slipped off her shoes and cried.

When Allison woke the next day, her eyes puffy and red-brimmed from the crying, she

fixed herself a strong cup of coffee and some toast and sat down to make her plans. It was

over now and it was time to go on with life. She had started to set up a new office system

for Pastor Henry and she wasnt going to leave him in the lurch. She estimated that she

could have it all up and running within another 3 weeks and train her replacement at the

same time. Even though Pastor Henry hadnt mentioned it, she suspected he was scouting

around for a likely candidate. She herself knew of two recent college grads that would fit

the bill. Cassie McGuire was a business major with a strong computer background.

Allison thought she would be very efficient. But then there was Patty Ferris who, though

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not as well-schooled in office mechanics, had the personality that was well-suited for the

sometimes delicate task of the churchs administrative assistant.

Allison could tell by the surprised look on his face, Jack Henry did not expect to see

her sitting at her desk that morning, when he came in to work.

You dont have to be here, he said, gently.

I know. But I need to do something. I cant just sit around. And there is certainly

plenty to be done here, she said, as she waved her hands in the air.

Yes, I suppose thats an understatement, he laughed. Im going to miss you, he

added, sincerely.

She felt for him the fondness she would have felt for older brother if she had one. If

her lifes dream had been anything other than the fast-paced corporate world she planned

to return to, she could have been comfortable at Grace Christian Church. But as it was,

she was already starting to itch for the frenetic pace of the city she left behind.

I have most everything downloaded into files with cross-references to she was

saying.

Allison, I know you know what you are doing, but I have no doubt that it is beyond

my understanding, so I wouldnt waste your explanations on me. Just write it all down

and Ill hire someone in the next couple of days. I know how anxious you are to get back

to your job.

He was thrilled when she said she would stay until the office was set and he had a

competent assistant in place. Knowing that she would be there for longer than he

originally expected, he decided to ask for her assistance with one last project.

Its called the Giving Tree, he explained. It was started several years ago and has

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become a bit of a tradition. Every Thanksgiving, we put a Christmas tree in the vestibule

and hang paper angels on it. Each angel has the name of a child whose family is

financially troubled or they have no family at all. Then, the parishioners take a name and

purchase a pair of mittens, hat and a small toy to be distributed before Christmas. Sadly,

the list grows every year.

What a wonderful idea. At least those children will have something to comfort them.

Jack was so glad that Allison was willing to help. There was a lot of work that went

into the Giving Tree. First there would have to be phone calls made to the local shelters

and orphanages; then, they would discreetly contact church families suspected of being

down on their luck to ascertain the needs of the unfortunate. Many were too proud to

come forth, even if it meant their children were to do without. After the exhaustive task,

the list was compiled, the angels were labeled and placed in a box until the tree was

assembled. Jack was definitely grateful for Allisons help.

Peter, its Allison, she spoke into the phone.

Allison, Im so sorry about your mom, he said, genuinely.

I want to thank you and David for the beautiful arrangement you sent. It was very

thoughtful, she said.

David picked it out. He said pink was your favorite color, Peter admitted.

Allison was surprised on several counts; first that David did the choosing of the

flowers, and second, that he knew her favorite color.

Please thank him for me. I would like to take the rest of the month to finish up here

and Im planning to be back to work by the beginning of August. Is that okay with you

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and David?

Allison, take as long as you need. I cant say we dont miss you terribly. The temp

you trained is adequate, but she just isntyou. When you get back, Id like to talk to you

about

a promotion. Its long overdue and we certainly dont want to lose you, Peter confessed.

You dont have to worry about that. Theres no place I want to be but Wallace &

Wallace. Her heart was racing at the thought of a promotion. She had worked long and

hard and she knew that eventually it would pay off. It was just the thing she needed to

help her get past her grief.

Well, I let the cat out of the bag, Peter said to his brother when he hung up the

phone. I told Allison about the promotion. David looked up from his paperwork.

Sooner or later, he was going to have to make his move. He didnt want to tell Peter how

he felt about Allison until he knew if she could feel anything for him. Right then and

there, he decided that when she was back in the city and settled again he was going to

make the move and ask her to dinner.

Allison and Pastor Henry discussed the hiring of her replacement and decided to do

the interviews together. After they met with Patty Ferris, at Allisons suggestion, they

both agreed that she was sharp enough to handle the office work and Jack was drawn to

her gentle voice and compassionate nature. He often needed someone to be his

replacement when he was tied up. He suspected that Patty would do nicely. His first

choice would have been Allison, but they had already discussed her leaving at the end of

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the month to get back to the life she had chosen for herself; a life far away from anything

that resembled her mothers.

But first, she was going to help him with something special; the Giving Tree. It would

have made her mothervery happymore than Allison could ever imagine.

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CHAPTER 4 -- THE PARTY

Julia Emerson met with Ruth to make up the list for Hazels party. They decided to

make it a luncheon so the food would be simple to prepare; sandwiches and a garden

salad, pasta and potato salads, and of course, a birthday cake.

The invitations were made and addressed, the decorations purchased, the food

preparation assigned from the volunteer list. Everything was in place for what Ruth and

Julia hoped to be a spectacular surprise.

Jack was making his regular visit to see Hazel and had to be very careful not to slip

up. They talked about the usual things and Hazel never brought up her conversation about

Harry again. But after that reminiscent, and she thought indulgent, outbreak, she was less

ornery. Her complaints were either mild or non-existent. Jack assumed that she was

probably embarrassed at having exposed a private side of herself. He was however,

wrong.

Hazel Dearborn thought long and hard about what happened at Pastors last visit.

Somewhere from deep down inside, she felt very alone. Her marriage to Harry had been a

full and rewarding one, even if the children they so desperately wanted were not to be.

They filled their life with other peoples children and the needs of Grace Christian

Church. Anytime there was a visiting pastor to accommodate, a church dinner to host, the

Dearborns were relied on to

help out, if not completely take over. They never felt taken advantage of, as others often

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did. They felt God used the opportunity of their childlessness, to serve. And as the years

passed, they continued to serve the Lord with joy and gratitude. When their advancing

age and decreasing health prevented them from active church participation, they sat

together writing out cards of encouragement to those with physical or spiritual needs.

Every week, they would be sent a list from the chairman of the card committee. They

were still able to attend Sunday service most weeks, so they were not yet considered

shut-ins, as most on their list were. Only when Harry took ill and the strain of his

illness and death left Hazel too weak and despondent to leave home did her name appear

on the list to be encouraged. She made her last trip to church the week before she sold

their house and moved into the Maplewood Home. And she knew the only way she would

be leaving would be in the back of Bill Fosters black limousine.

So Pastor was wrong when he thought she had been embarrassed. She felt great relief

at the release of an anger and disappointment that had been with her since Harrys

passing. It had crept in slowly, as the loneliness took over. The had been married since

they were very young and spent practically their whole lives together. They grew up

together and they grew oldtogether. How could you possibly explain that loss to anyone

so they could understand? So her grief overtook the joyful memories and blocked out her

love for God. The only thing she could focus on was the negative until her outpouring

of emotion awakened her. And then it was as if her spirit had been awakened. After Pastor

Henry left, she carefully eased herself out of her chair and onto her painfully arthritic

knees to pray. She knew that the depth of her repentance, as far as she was concerned,

required it. Hazel poured out her heart to God and asked His forgiveness. She felt the

bitter iciness melt and the Lords familiar warmth wrap around her like a cozy warm

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blanket on a chilly night. She didnt share the experience with Pastor; she didnt feel the

need. It was between her and God and she would never again let anything stand between

them.

Everyone at the Maplewood Home noticed the change. It was hard notto. The

normally cantankerous Hazel Dearborn, who never attended any group activities and took

her meals in her room, suddenly became a regular in the dining room and neveronce

criticized the food. Even when the chicken was dry or the green beans overcooked, she

never said a word. And she never even mentionedMrs. Murphys Sunday pot roast.

Kim Brody, the activity director was amazed when Hazel appeared one afternoon for

her art class. She was even more amazed when Hazel painted a beautiful watercolor of

the yellow sunflowers Kim picked that morning from the garden.

Hazel, this is beautiful. Where did you learn to paint like this? she asked genuinely.

Thank you, dear. I havent painted for a very long time. My hands are not as steady

as they once were, and she told Kim of the art classes she had taken in college so many

years before. And she taught Kim something very valuable that day; the old adage, dont

judge a book by its cover. She assumed Hazel was just an old woman with not much left

to offer and here she was with a remarkable talent. Kim hoped she would be able to

convince Hazel to share that talent with the others.

Most surprised was Emily Campbell. She had been the receptionist for Maplewood

since it

opened ten years before. She had seen many residents come and go. When they went, it

was most often with the help of Bill Fosters funeral services. Maplewood was an end

point for the majority of senior citizens that moved in.

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Emily had the perfect personality for her job. She was compassionate and caring, but

not thin-skinned enough to be crushed by a surly residents disposition. Most of them

were kindly and sweet-tempered, but there was always the occasional crank who would

bang their cane on her desk with some irrational complaint. Emily would just smile and

say she would take care of it; which she would try, to the best of her ability. More often

than not, the complaint would be forgotten by the resident before he or she had left the

lobby.

Some couldnt, or like Hazel Dearborn, wouldntleave their rooms and would lodge

their complaint via their phone. So when Hazel wandered out into the lobby that fateful

day, Emily swallowed hard. Must be something really big, she thought, for Hazel to leave

her room. She steady herself for the barrage and was stunned when Hazel asked for the

activity schedule for the week. Emily sat open-mouth, staring after her as Hazel left the

desk, schedule in hand.

From that time on, Emily would see Hazel come and go, smiling at all she passed and

Emily wondered what didPastor Henry say to change her that day. So when Pastor called

her the next day to inquire about a surprise party, she was glad to help. There would be

plenty of room in the reception hall. She knew Hazel had no family and almost no

visitors, so she didnt expect more than a handful of guests. When Ruth Henry called with

the final count and said there would be 68, she was shocked. Luckily, the room held 100,

so it wouldnt be a problem. And by that

time, Emily had grown so fond of the formerly disagreeable Hazel Dearborn that she

planned to attend the party herself. She also elicited Kims help and decided to have the

other residents attend, as well.

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Kim came up with a wonderful idea and secretly took all the paintings that Hazel did

in her classes and had them framed. She planned to put them on display in the room for

all her guests to see. As a gift, Kim purchased Hazel her own paint box with a small

engraved nameplate. As time grew nearer for the party, Emily and Kims excitement grew

with it. Hazel was fast becoming a favorite among the residents of Maplewood Home.

It was the morning of Hazels party and Jack stopped in the office to pick up the gift

he and Ruth had purchased for her from the church bookstore. It was a beautiful leather-

bound, large print bible engraved with her name and birthday. He had handwritten a

touching inscription on the inside. He stopped at Allisons desk on the way out.

Allison, Patty seems to be catching on well, dont you think? Pastor Henry asked.

Yes, she understands the database and the

Jack was waving his hand to have her stop explaining things he didnt understand and

didnt have time to learn. Allison just laughed with understanding.

Ill be leaving early this afternoon, if thats ok, she said, knowing that it would be.

Jenny and I have a meeting with Moms attorney for the reading of her will. They had

put it off for several weeks because neither of Mary McFarlands daughters were ready to

put everything to

rest. But it was time now. Allison had only a few more weeks left before she returned to

the city.

She and Jenny already started to choose the items that belonged to their mother that

meant the most to them. Jenny was fondest of her mothers collection of porcelain dolls

and having a

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daughter of her own, she hoped to pass them on one day herself. Allison felt most

attached to her mothers white porcelain tea set with the hand painted roses. She

remembered all the times her mother would bring it to the table and pour them all a

soothing cup of chamomile or Earl Gray. Allison had a special place picked out for it in

her apartment. Mary had already packed up and given most of her clothes and things she

knew her daughters didnt want, to the Salvation Army. As was her nature, she didnt

want to burden them when she was gone. So the only thing left was the reading of the

will.

Of course, Jack said. Take off whenever you want. Will you be okay? he asked,

concerned that she was holding herself together just a little too well since the funeral. He

knew she was the stronger of the two sisters, but he also knew how much she loved her

mother. And he knew that she had no idea what she was in for when the will was read.

Mary had sworn him to secrecy, so he couldnt let on that it might be a rough afternoon.

Call me, if you need to. Ill be up late tonight, he offered, knowing she might have

more than just a fe

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32920286 the Giving Tree