Pryor Scrapbook Bessie Mae, 2008

. ' Dearest Bessie Mae, I was saddened to hear about your recent fall and the surgery that you had to undergo. You have been in my prayers and I trust the Lord has His healing hand on you. I wish I lived close enough to be able to visit Harding from time to time. I never dreamed that I would go so many years without attending a lectureship, Homecoming, or Spring Sing. Of course, as fun as those events are and as beautiful as the campus is, what I long for aren't those activities or the buildings that I would participate in or see on those occasions. What I long for is time with the wonderful people who fill my heart from my days at Harding ... not only friends, roommates, Regina sisters and Chi Sig brothers, Petit Jean and KHCA colleagues, but the teachers and mentors who so greatly impacted my heart and my mind. Bessie Mae, your name and Dr. Joe's top my list! Who could ask for better mentors? Like many Regina members, before and after me, I was blessed to have you as our sponsor. Your example of a virtuous woman- industrious, committed, loving and full of hospitality- most assuredly help prepare many of us for future roles in life. And, like many Petit Jean staff members over the years, I was welcomed into your home for some fabulous meals-but far better than _your wonderful cooking, were the wonderful times sitting around your table listening to and laughing with you and Dr. Joe. But, Bessie Mae, your impact didn't end there. You opened your home to me in a very special way- you allowed me to spend countless hours in your home when I just needed time away from the dorm and a busy campus life. Your home became my second home- and because my time at Harding coincided with Susan's final years in the Academy, I had an opportunity to get to know her in a very special way and love her as the little sister I never had. Bessie Mae, many of us learned valuable life lessons at your feet. From practical tips on planning special events, table decor, and cooking, to the more subtle insights, wisdom, and guidance you offered, our lives were enriched because of you. Thank you for your example of a strong and gentle woman. Thank you, from me, for all that you did to bless the lives of so many of us young college girls who the Lord led through your home. But now, just from me to you, a special thank-you for the wonderful relationship you allowed me. Thank you for opening your home to me any day of the week, around the clock, and sharing your family time with me, when I felt far from my own home and family. Thank you, Bessie Mae, for loving me. I'm ashamed that I was so remiss over the years about staying in touch- because my actions do not support my words. But I pray that you know how sincerely and deeply I mean what I write tonight! I Love you, Bessie Mae. Jane Jackson Esparza Jane Jackson Esparza Class of '78 2044 N. Woodstock St., Arlington, VA 22207