Winnie Bell Going Away Party

Dear Winnie: 2012 Edgewood Bridgeport, Tx. 76426 June 16, 2007 What an inspiration you have been as you quietly went about living your life, fulfilling your career responsibilities and privileges as Harding's librarian, and serving the Lord in your World Bible School work. I never really understood you completely until we moved to Itasca and I grew to love the wide, open spaces and the rich fields of grain and blue skies which dominate the landscape where you grew up near Waxahachie. It's an expanse which sort of bares one's soul and gives you room to breathe and to dream big dreams. I saw some of the dedication with which you cared for your Mother and your sister, Mildred, for whom I also had so much respect. I was grateful for the patience with which you handled some of my personal dreams and conflicts. Having roots in Searcy since I was a little girl, (well almost!), in the sixth grade in Harding's Training School, and knowing so many people there, Harding kept tugging at my heartstrings throughout my adult career. You kept me in your home once when I returned there for a job interview. I think I was sick with allergies while I was there and you endured my sniffles graciously. I'll never forget the snow storm which nearly took my life as I was returning home to Texas. And because the position was for one year only and left so little time to be with my family, I declined to accept it. And you gained a wonderful librarian who is still with Harding. And I later met and married a preacher who has helped me to have a wonderful life. There were several times when I wished I had come on to Harding in faith, but because I prayed about it fervently, and asked God's guidance, I feel I made the right decision as life's circum– stances have unfolded. You are the kind of person who lives each day to the fullest with no fanfare, using your gifts and abilities to help others, a kind of Lydia, who has opened her home for Christian hospitality to your family, friends, and to young people who needed you. I am sure that God has a special place in his heart for the woman alone. I think He watches over them ever so closely and uses His Providence to take care of their needs in ways which are beyond our understanding. I know, because I was a woman alone for so long. And he has brought about so many miracles in my life, in my personal, professional, and spiritual affairs. I know that He is watching out for you, and that He will guide you safely home while providing many wonderful experiences and examples ofmeeting your needs while you are still on this earth. We love you for your example, your sense of humor (I love that little giggle!), your dedication to the Lord, and just because you are ~ Sincerely,