22 December 2010

A Woman Without Measure

"Nothing at my house is free". Shanna had taken in a dog at her house and commented that she would be keeping the stray if her oldest daughter did her share of the chores. I teased she was a mean momma. She remarked, "Nothing at my house is free."

Many times we take things for granted. When something is given, without cost, it can have little lasting value. But those things in our lives that have a price (whether it is a monetary, physical or emotional price) have an impact that is, at times, immeasurable.

Shanna carried many burdens. She shouldered the needs of others selflessly. But, that's not to say she was soft. For the families she worked with, Shanna had a clear, bright line. She set out expectations that defined success. If a client progressed, Shanna was a cheerleader and driving force for their success. Shanna believed every child deserves a safe home. The importance of this belief can be seen in both her professional and personal lives. Giving so much - to so many.

From Proverbs -
Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. She worketh willingly with her hands. She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. Her candle goeth not out by night. She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy. Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.

1 comment:

Wendy said...

Well said. Shanna will be missed by all of her family in Area 5. Shanna was an amazing woman that unselfishly gave her all to the children, though not her biological, and carried all of them in her heart. I will miss that crooked smile that she always had for me even when stress was the only sign on her face. I pray that God lifts her family in his hands and carries them through this difficult time. Her family was her most precious treasure and she spoke of them often. In this job, there is not a lot of "thank you's and well done"...but to you my friend...THANK YOU AND WELL DONE! Rest in peace Shanna, now you are home! "I guess Heaven needed a hero, someone just like you. Brave enough to stand up for what you believe and follow it through". I am thankful for the conversation that I had with Shanna last week and even though she was taking another job, she continued to try and lift me up and encourage me like usual. You will be missed by all of us!