Note: On Tuesdays, you can find me at Your Daily Tripod, owned by my friend TonyD. A longer version of the post below appears there.
It was fourteen years ago this month that I first met Karen, though I don’t remember hearing her name at the time. I was close to coming back to the Church after decades away, 
and my pastor had told me to attend the parish evening Advent retreats. Karen was in my group the first night. She talked about feeling stressed and overworked—but still praying in the car with her son and daughter as she drove them to school. I was impressed that a working woman close to my age, with a husband and kids to boot, still managed to find moments of grace in her busy day. It gave me hope.
About a year later, we ended up in the same prayer group. And ever since then, our paths have intersected in ways large and small. Every Advent, we’re among the organizers of a large, predawn breakfast at our old parish. We’ve been in Bible studies together. I hope I’ve been a listening ear in some of her times of trouble. I appreciate that whatever idea the Lord puts into my head for a book or event, Karen lends her support.
Fourteen years later, I’m still learning from Karen’s strength, bravery, and hospitality. She’s still giving me hope—and isn’t that what a true shepherd does?
