Like you, my life has been influenced by many women. Dorothy is one of them. I was 26-years-old and new to a congregation when I joined the altar guild. Dorothy and I were assigned to work together for a particular month. A good 40 years or more older than me, Dorothy was an able teacher, showing me reverence and respect for the table we prepared each week.
Dorothy was quite a talker, and our weekly altar guild sessions often took twice the normal time, just because Dorothy had lots to say. At first, with the impatience of a twenty-something, I found this a bit annoying, but over time I came to treasure my talks with Dorothy.
Dorothy was fond of saying “if a woman will tell you her age, she’ll tell you anything.” Dorothy didn’t hide her age, and she did let you know exactly what she was thinking, but always in a kind and loving manner.
Dorothy understood God’s unconditional love and followed that model every day. She cared deeply for everyone with whom she came in touch. Jesus calls us to simply love one another, she would say. For that constant reminder and gracious role model, I give thanks.
This message is adapted from “A Gracious Role Model,” written by Linda Post Bushkofsky for the Women of the ELCA blog.