Every author has a moment when they wonder, “Am I making a difference in the world?” Last week, I had that moment. And then this happened. Here’s a letter from Christa Rydlewski, a contributor to both Angel Bumps and Heartstrings from Heaven. She received this letter from Yvonne Johnson and I wanted to share her words to Christa.
Dear Christa,
I wanted to thank you for the two Anne Bardsley books We loved them! I went home to California couple of weeks ago as it was my parents 73rd wedding anniversary. My sister and I drove Mom to our hometown, where Dad lies in rest, to “spend the day with him.” That evening, my sister and I took turns reading stories from the two books to Mom, including your story.
My Mom felt an instant connection to your parents through your story and all the stores we read meant a great deal to her. So thank you! I am sharing the books with a couple of close friends who have gone through the same loss.
I wanted to share that in July, I flew to Missoula Montana to attend the military funeral of my beloved brother-in-law, Leo. He had been my brother-in-law since I was 8 and really, he was a second father to me. He walked me down the aisle when I got married. I loved him dearly. In 2004 I inherited his beloved 1992 burgundy convertible with a black top BMW. It was in cherry condition, and I was often stopped by people wanting to buy it. Years later, with his permission, I had to sell it because the maintenance was getting up there in cost due to its age. We both loved that car!
As I was riding to his funeral in Missoula with his son-in-law, Geroge and his grandson Matt, the MOST amazing thing happened! We were waiting to turn left into the cemetery parking lot and on a two-lane country road, THAT EXACT BMW passed us! I almost jumped out of the car! The three of us sat in stunned silence for so long that the car behind us eventually honked it’s horn for us to go lol! We pulled into the parking lot and held hands staring at each other in disbelief and smiling. We knew Leo was with us. I don’t know if you’ve ever been to Missoula, but trust me they don’t have BMWs there, much less a 1992 burgundy convertible! Lol! Now we know we received an Angel Bump that day.
Thank you so much, in your own grief, for thinking of me and giving me the books. You are an incredible person, Christa- just being in your presence is calming and your smile always shows pure joy. Your son and Harper are lucky to have you!
Thank you again,
Veronica Johnson
p.s. I wish all the contributors could feel this joy!
Leave a Reply