Christian Living

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To Whom It May Concern
© 2007

by

Stephen A. Peterson


The letter was postmarked February 14, 2007 from Calvin, Oklahoma, a small rural town. When Darlene Mayes opened the letter to read its contents, she noticed the letter was from a person she could not recall having ever met. It was written: “To Whom It May Concern—Darlene. Every Valentine’s day I write a letter of love to someone who helped me in some positive way over the past year to say ‘thank you’, ‘God bless you’. I’d learned from my grandmother long ago that being thankful is like a light bulb at night. It has no true value unless someone turns it on. So I’m writing you on this most special of days. Thank you very much! A Valentine on the day of unconditional love and gratitude for a good and honorable person. Sincerely, Michelle.

Darlene tried to recall when and what she did for Michelle. Perhaps, she thought Michelle was probably a visitor to Saint Benedict’s Catholic Church participating in one of the many events sponsored by the church. But as Darlene held her letter in her hand, her gratitude seemed to fill the education office with a bright light. A warm and special feeling spread through Darlene’s being. She came to recognize that the woman from Calvin, Oklahoma was right. Being thankful and expressing one’s love should not only be thought of but stated in order to do the greatest good. Darlene also concluded that Valentine’s Day was not only a day one should express their thankfulness and unconditional love but all 365 or 366 days of the year.

Darlene opened her desk drawer, took out a piece of parish stationary. She wrote: “Dear Mrs. Birney: I’ve just started the practice of writing those who did something to help me in some way to recognize the spirit of God and His mercy.” She wrote further: “Your efforts helping me and St. Benedict’s to receive new Catholic members to the family of God had not gone unnoticed. I wish to say thank you and may God richly bless you. Respectfully. Darlene.

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