A business sign which always warms my heart.


It's on Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, Florida.


Why does it warm my heart?   Let me tell you. It's about a woman whose first name was Barbara.

 Barbara was a member of St. Stephen's Parish in Pittsfield, MA  where I served as Rector 1984-200

 Her memory is a treasure.  She was a mother by birth, adoption and fostering to scores of children, many of who would have otherwise never known fierce love.

 She was a tireless worker for civil rights in the face of racism.

 She was feisty.  She was funny. She was fearless.

 Barbara had a will of steel and a heart of gold.

 She knew how to tell me (in no uncertain terms!)  when I stepped out of line (every Rector/Vicar/Pastor needs a parishioner who has the spiritual gift of ass-kicking!).

 She inspired me. Her memory is a blessing.
And that business sign?

 Barbara's "married name" was Barbara Hanger.

 Her "birth name" was Barbara Frye.
What a splendid coincidence.  I smile and bless God every time I see it.


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