My Heroines
Posted by Marlene Obie on Tuesday, March 31, 2009
This last week I was able to greet, hug and honor once again the ladies of the Foss Home Auxiliary. What a privilege it was for me to work with them for nine and one-half years and count them among my friends. Now in their 70's, 80's and 90's, they certainly look back and feel good about the positive changes they have worked for all their lives. They devoted years to their families, taking care of husbands, children, and parents while working in and outside the home. Schools, churches, and other community organizations succeed in their missions due to their volunteer spirits which even now are not diminished. As their bodies have grown weaker, they continue to support the causes which enhance the lives of others.
These gutsy, faith-filled women worked for 20 years to 39 years at raising money and giving time and personal attention to the elderly residents at Foss. The organization has existed formally for around 60 years. From the early years, they provided entertainment, presents, parties, craft activities, outings, furnishings, special food items, and hours of listening and reading. After their elderly friends at the Home moved on to their next life, they bid them adieu by hosting the memorial receptions with dignity and flair.
As the numbers of participants dwindled, those who were able to show up were not lacking in enthusiasm and persistant commitment. They fretted about getting enough help and merchandise for the rummage sales and Bazaars and year after year rejoiced over the harvests from these events. Most aches and pains would not deter them from participating. Sometimes their children and friends had to firmly insist that they take care of themselves by not coming because they believe in fulfilling their commitments.
Over their lifetimes, these ladies have exhibited characteristics of great women of faith in the Bible, as well as history. They are Martha, Mary, Ruth, Deborah, Esther, Lydia, students, teachers, mothers and friends. They have answered the call to tend to the needy, lost and forsaken however they are able still. They may not always have agreed on what to do when and how, but they have always been united in their purpose to make life better for Foss Home residents. When they found a process that worked well, their delight in the success was a healing balm and a strengthening bond of friendship.
The end of this group as an official organization is sad, but the legacy and example they they have lived is uplifting. I will miss coming to their events and helping them. They are a touch act to follow. I hope I have their stamina and dedication to ministry in the next ten to twenty years while I finish growing up.
These gutsy, faith-filled women worked for 20 years to 39 years at raising money and giving time and personal attention to the elderly residents at Foss. The organization has existed formally for around 60 years. From the early years, they provided entertainment, presents, parties, craft activities, outings, furnishings, special food items, and hours of listening and reading. After their elderly friends at the Home moved on to their next life, they bid them adieu by hosting the memorial receptions with dignity and flair.
As the numbers of participants dwindled, those who were able to show up were not lacking in enthusiasm and persistant commitment. They fretted about getting enough help and merchandise for the rummage sales and Bazaars and year after year rejoiced over the harvests from these events. Most aches and pains would not deter them from participating. Sometimes their children and friends had to firmly insist that they take care of themselves by not coming because they believe in fulfilling their commitments.
Over their lifetimes, these ladies have exhibited characteristics of great women of faith in the Bible, as well as history. They are Martha, Mary, Ruth, Deborah, Esther, Lydia, students, teachers, mothers and friends. They have answered the call to tend to the needy, lost and forsaken however they are able still. They may not always have agreed on what to do when and how, but they have always been united in their purpose to make life better for Foss Home residents. When they found a process that worked well, their delight in the success was a healing balm and a strengthening bond of friendship.
The end of this group as an official organization is sad, but the legacy and example they they have lived is uplifting. I will miss coming to their events and helping them. They are a touch act to follow. I hope I have their stamina and dedication to ministry in the next ten to twenty years while I finish growing up.
