Condolence: LouAnne, I would have preferred being there personally to tell you what a noble and gracious man your father was. There was a gentleness of bearing and character that always evoked admiration from me. His kindness seemed as natural to him as the warmth of the sun or the pleasure of a cool breeze. Whereas I seem to naturally and unwilfully overbear others, your father exemplified that welcome of Jesus, “Come unto me … and I will give you rest.” I was always, always relaxed around your father. If I had an edge or a sense of urgency, he was able (I think quite unwittingly) to ease my running mind, relax, and through conversation to experience, what Martha Jane says many times to me, “Slow down and smell the roses.” With your father I could simply enjoy his company and sense the best of relaxed fellowship. I cannot fathom how much you will miss him, but it is obvious that so much of his character and bearing are in you. Though he cannot physically be present with you at this time (as the Scripture says, that is “reserved in heaven”), his bearing, demeanor, and general well-being are actually a part of you. You can probably not see them any more than you can see your own eyes. But all who see you and have known your father will see your father in you. You’ve been richly blessed with more than good memories of your father; you exude his character. It was an honor to have known him as well as you. Though I’m in the Ukraine, my thoughts and condolences are there with you. With the highest regards for Doc Wolff, VL