Before She Was Mrs. Nelson

More than 5 years ago, I was the song leader for our Tuesday morning Ladies Class. And each morning as we sang, Peggy sat on the 3rd row smiling at me. I remember this, because I worked hard to get people to smile when they were singing praises to God, but it was always a chore. It was not a chore for Peggy. She always smiled! And every Tuesday she would come up to me and give me a hug and tell me what a great job I was doing. I soon began to consider her my personal encourager.

I don't remember the exact day or the exact conversation, but I know it went something like this:

Me: Have I mentioned how much I love Peggy?
Mom: Yes, she and Byron and wonderful people?
Me: Byron. I haven't met him.
Mom: Yes, Byron Nelson, you know, the golfer. That's Peggy's husband.
Me: What? Peggy is married to Byron Nelson. You mean as in the Byron Nelson. Wow! I had no idea.

So, before she was Mrs. Nelson, she was Peggy to me. And she continues to be Peggy, my personal encourager. Everytime I go on a Come Before Winter trip, she sends money, before I even ask. Just last week, we returned to Richland Hills for church. She was there, in her normal spot, handing out bulletins as you walked into the auditorium. I hugged her and she held on for a long time. When she finally pulled back, there looked like tears in her eyes as she said, "Man, I have missed your face." Now, that will make you feel good, no matter who says it.

Mr. Nelson went home to be with Jesus yesterday. Peggy returned from Tuesday morning Bible class to find him sitting on the front porch of their ranch. He had already taken Jesus' hand. Oh sweet Peggy, how I hurt for you right now. Grieving and making funeral arrangements is hard for any wife, but having to do that with the press at your heels has got to be exhausting. I am praying God's sweet peace to cover you at this time and that you will be given the opportunity to grieve well. You have all my love!