Gift of Life Award

This Tuesday afternoon, Jonathan, Erika, Andrew, Caleb, my friend Connie, and myself will drive north to Olympia to receive an award given to six families every year for their family member's gift of life to another. Blair Graybill gave life to two different people who needed a kidney. I wrote the following for publication:

How can one write only one paragraph to give tribute to a man? Blair Graybill was a one of a kind man. Bright, kind, inquisitive hazel eyes, framed by wire rimmed glasses, Blair Graybill had personality that made you want to trust him. His full head of silver hair gave him authority. He loved to learn and he never stopped the pursuit. While some teachers will rest on what they’ve learned, Blair never stopped. Teaching for over 30 years, he never grew tired of studying our American history. Blair loved his family even more. He was extremely proud of his two sons. He was the family organizer of reunions, and family genealogy. There were many people in his life who deeply respected him. Myself, his children, colleagues, and family. Blair was a gracious and kind man who was confident enough and manly enough to be helpful with most anything. When Blair decided to do something, he’d already analyzed the problem and was ready to do it. Though he left no directive regarding donating his kidneys, I believe he would have analyzed the situation, then would have decided to give. Blair loved me, his family and of course his late wife, Pat. I was blessed to know him and be a part of his life--and I know I will see him again--in heaven--because of his faith, a strong component in his life. He died, trusting in Jesus Christ for his salvation. I was blessed to know him and honored to have his name.

So, together, Blair's son, step-daughter, step grandsons, wife and friend will accept the award from Governor Gregoire. The greatest honor is to Blair. We love you!

Writing a book.....

I have a new appreciation for writers and the work they do in producing a book.  I have completed nearly every step in producing a book.

I've just dropped off a hard copy to my editor for one final read-through and I will be done. Never did I realize how many times one has to write, re-write, cut, and cut more precious (to me) words! But I believe it is worth it. I feel good that I've accomplished this.

Here's a little excerpt from the final chapter:

Dear reader, I have taken you on a journey. My journey of five years, full of joy, happiness, and sorrow. I pray that mostly you can see the joy, for there is none without God. Good times that don’t last and sad times visit us all.

But God, who shows Himself through Jesus Christ, knows our sorrows. He is there. Seek Him........

         

The other day, the phone rang. Someone from the Gift of Life Center Northwest was on the phone. She called to tell me that the State of Washington awards six families per year for their loved one’s gift of life. Would we want to participate and receive the award?  She went on to explain the governor from our state would give an award to each family. What an honor and tribute to Blair! Of course we would want him to be here, but that his two kidneys gave life to two men makes it easier to bear. So on February 28, 2012, we will be there with five other families to accept the award. And Blair Graybill will the most honored for it was his gift. I am so thankful that though this is an honor, his greatest honor is his life in heaven with his Lord and Savior.

As Greg(Blair's oldest son) said in a Sunday sermon, “Put God at the center of your life now, so that when everything else falls away--as it will---you will still possess the vital center.”

He is the center of my life. He has provided. He is trustworthy and good. 

G. William Rudberg, Jr. 9-26-1943 - 3-3-2006

Bill entered Heaven's gates this day at 3:00 am six years ago. Hard to believe it has been that long, yet it seems like forever.

Thank you, Bill Rudberg for your love and the life we had. Never would I have rappelled off of Rooster Rock (let alone a 6 foot high rock) had it not been for you and your encouragement. I wouldn't have climbed a mountain (Mt. Hood, six times!). Taken flying lessons. Gone on a car rally, hike 20 miles in one day! You inspired me to press on and it has helped me since you've been gone.

Thank you for the children we had together. They are good! Very, very good!

I wonder what you're doing in Heaven. It's hard to know for sure, but I know you are with the Savior and you are perfect. Thank-you, God, for the gift of Bill.