I’ve always been affected by the story of the ten lepers that Jesus healed, affected specifically by the fact that only one thought to say, “Thank you.“

I’m sure it was love that led Jesus to heal them, not the desire to be thanked, and so those of us who “give a cup of cold water in his name” don’t do it to be thanked either.

But it’s so nice when it happens.

When someone writes a note on my website, I’m always encouraged. I’m aware of the effort it takes to write a note, and I try to write a note in return. I doubt those that leave a note expect it, and I’m sure I’ve missed someone along the way, but gratitude makes me try.

I thought I’d take the next two weeks to share a couple of the notes I’ve written lately. I hope the ladies, who will be anonymous, won’t mind. I thought what I wrote in these particular notes might be interesting or even helpful to those who read my blog. I hope so.

The note that follows is to a widow who asked a question many have asked. My wish for her at the end of my note is my wish for you as well, dear reader.

I saw your note on my website, and I wanted to thank you for taking time to write. I love hearing from people who have read one of my novels. I’ve heard from several widows and most of them can’t believe I’m not a widow myself.

If you click on the Books section on my website and scroll down to Tender Grace, and then click on the Q& A, you’ll find many questions and answers about the writing experience, including something of an answer to your question.

Every night when I was working on Tender Grace, I’d come out of my study, so glad to see my husband in the living room watching a ball game as he is right this minute. We are at the age where we do not take our days together for granted.

I have several close friends who have lost mates—one in her 30’s, two in their 50’s. But I think I wrote because of my parents, 84 and 93 now, who seem to be in a perpetual leave taking, dreading so much the day that can’t be far off when one will be without the other. So I asked the question—How do we go on?

Tender Grace was my answer. It will be my answer whatever I face in the days ahead. The concerned, loving, faithful presence of God in our lives is the theme of my life, and writing Tender Grace let me proclaim it. That made me very happy.

May the “Faithful One” be near you as you enter a new phase of your life. I hope He surprises you with joy upon joy and that you’ll be amazed.