My Valentine cards are ready to give. The gifts for the grand kids are sitting on the dining room table. Now I just have to get through Monday, February 13. You see, two women who loved me unconditionally and cared about me both died and went to heaven on February 13. They passed on the same date but different years.

My mother, Anita Brase Mahnken, died of complications from breast cancer after several years of battling it. It finally wore her down and God called her home. She was ready but I wasn’t. She was active in church and LWML and loved her Lord. I never doubted her faith. I learned about Jesus from her. I learned about LWML from her. I thank God for her in my life.

My daughter, Gayle Anne Ross, died of complications from treatment for acute lymphocytic leukemia after battling it for four years. She was 18 and a senior in high school, planning to attend college in Chicago. She, too, was firm in her faith. I got to teach her about Jesus. I taught her about LWML. When she was little and went to meetings with me she called our group, “The ladies who eat cake”. I was loved by God through her.

I love the young women working on the LWML committees and in the LWML Office. I love talking with the Young Woman Representatives at conventions because they are my “Gayles” now.

I love remembering with older LWML women who have been such a big part of my faith walk over the years. We share experiences and some have shared working with my mother.

The loss and pain of separation remembered on the 13^th gives way to the joy of knowing that we await a reunion in heaven. And that is because of the love of God in Christ Jesus in whom we have the hope of eternal life together with Him—just as my mother and daughter have.

So, my Valentine from God, “I have loved you with an everlasting love”, Jeremiah 31:3, waits for me on the 14^th. There is one for you, too.

I know many of you have experienced sadness at the death of children or parents. Here are some of my favorite verses I relied on: John 11:25-26; Job 38:1-40:2; 1Thessalonians 4:13-18; Isaiah 40:11. Please write me if you feel a need to talk.

Happy Valentine’s Day!