Saturday August 19 2017  A DAY OF REMEMBERING

Today is the day my Aunt Esther was laid to rest.  I sat alone in my office during the time of her funeral.  Though I could not be there I reminisced and prayed for her family gathered together to celebrate her life.  The fact that she lived on this earth merits a celebration. 

Six years ago our family had a large family reunion and I wrote a biography for each of my mother’s siblings (13 in all) as well as a poem about their lives.  Each sibling was called to the front for the presentation of reading what had been written for them.  They were presented with an individual certificate of honor as to what their children remembered best about them.

I would like to give remembrance and honor to my aunt on this day of her burial.  It would have been awesome to celebrate in Arkansas, but I had my own celebration by remember who she was to me.  I have bits and pieces I have retrieved from what I wrote 6 years ago.  I hope you enjoy reading how one person blessed so many people.

 

My eulogy for Esther:

2011:

The world is a more beautiful place because Aunt Esther lives in it.  Her gifts are varied but she has been especially blessed with the gift of hospitality; always giving to others comfort of bed, food, love, and care.   When you leave Aunt Esther’s presence, you feel as if you have experienced a little more of God’s love.  She reflects that love.  She has truly been God’s hand extended.

 

Esther Ruth Carter

A Woman of Substance

Kathleen Martens

April 2, 2011

 

Home away from home; greeted with open arms and a smile

From one that has welcomed many, after long tiring miles.

Our family is so blessed, with God’s servant among us,

One who prepares for our coming without any fuss.

 

Hot biscuits waiting on a table set with food

Welcoming the travelers; improving their mood.

Our dear Aunt Esther, God hid her wings

So we could enjoy her as she whistles and sings.

 

As long as I remember she’s given love without measure,

No matter who you are, she makes you feel treasured.

Sweet and sincere – no airs or haughtiness,

Down to earth and genuine – no need for gaudiness.

 

God gave her extra measure for the desire of giving,

And on others she pours joy on their living.

So simply she lives, no time for a throne,

Busy helping others, or talking on the phone.

 

Busy, always busy, with never a frown!

And God is busy in heaven making stars for her crown!

 

Certificate of Honor

Presented to

Esther Ruth Carter

To honor you for your love language of serving others.  You have graced this family with an inner beauty that only comes from God.

First Place Award

for

#1 Mother and Angel in disguise

We will always remember you for opening your heart and home to family, never asking anything in return.

A woman of substance blessed with strong faith and strong love.

 

2017

 

A RARE TREASURE

(Dedicated to Aunt Esther)

Kathleen Martens

August 19, 2017

http://www.visionsofpoetry.com

 

Thank You God for the privilege

Of knowing someone so fine.

All these years of loving her

Have been quite sublime.

 

A gentle spirit, a humble soul,

She always did for others.

So selfless in her thoughts and deeds,

An awesome daughter, sister, and mother.

 

She always welcomed one and all

And was generous beyond measure.

When one was in her presence

They knew she was a treasure.

 

You always felt better when she departed

For a bit of Jesus she left in her wake.

I believe she was an angel in disguise

Put on earth for my sake.

 

But perhaps everyone thought

That very same old thing,

Because it seemed with her presence

Love and joy she’d bring.

 

 

Thank You God that I grew up knowing my Aunt Esther!

Thank You God that I am assured that I will see her again.

 

I’ve shed my tears and now it seems a smile has returned to my heart.  How can I not be joyful knowing where she is! 

 

GOD BLESS EACH ONE!