Pryor Scrapbook Bessie Mae, 2008

Dear Mrs. Bessie Mae - Whata wonderful day this is for all of us - a tribute to a grand Christian Lady and a time for us to reflect on the personal goals you helped us establish during our college years. I can still remember the tinkle of punch cups, the freshness of your linens and the sm ell of coffee percolating (no drip through then) as you hosted guests. If it was sandwiches around your kitchen table with BJ and her "buds" or a tea party your grace was something that I wanted to emulate. The Hebrew writer reminded us "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it" Heb 13:2 - each year strangers to you came to your door and while we were anything but angels - your gentle interest in us made us want to be "little angels" ... and as we reflect on those times in your home we are reminded again that we want to be "angels" . I hope that I can make those that visit our home feel as special as you always made us feel - even if it is entertaining with so!o cup s, store bought pimento cheese and drip coffee, because as I reflect back at the sweet memories of your southern hospitality it wasn't the punch cups and starched linens that made for warm hospitality but your spirit. May I I never forget I am not ever to busy to show hospitality to a stranger. I wish I could be in Searcy next week with you and your girls, may God grace you with a wonderful day. Thank you for being a mentor to all of us. Happy Birthday ! Mona Smelser Plyler Tuscaloosa, Alabama Class of 1977 A Tri-Kappa that had the privilege of playing ball against a Regina named BJ -and made a friend .