Welcome to the ULC Minister's Network

Pastor Sal Gregory

Tribute to a friend

  • In the early 80's I found myself newly divorced with two small children. I was frightened for the circumstances and unsure of what would become of us. My life was a real mess! I needed to learn so many life lessons that I felt overwhelmed and attempted to escape in a wreckless night life, searching for anyone who could step in and make things better. Needless to say, motivations from self-centered brokeness bring only more problems. Out of shame, I isolated and withdrew from friends and family. I had no prayer life, as I felt that God would not want to hear from a woman so empty and worthless.

    This is when Marge came into my life. She radiated a joy and a zest for life. I saw in her a wisdom and light I wished I could have. Her kindness to me and the way our friendship evolved has been something I carry with me and share with women I meet to this day. The first thing she did was to listen, without judgement and validated me. She shared her own journey and gave me a trusting, safe place to go to with care and concerns. We worked through fears and tears, shared laughter and hopes. Slowly, over the months that followed, I began to get stronger in my own life. I began taking stock in my life and the direction I set my goals.

    Through her example and compassion, I evolved into a lady and a mother I was proud of. My faith grew as we delt with my past and we continued our friendship through careers, graduations and just plain living day to day.

    Today, I love and am loved. I am a child of God who lives to do His Will for me and live in gratitude for bringing Marge to me.

    Marge is thousands of miles away but always in my heart. Today, she faces some serious surgery. I pray for her and her speedy recovery. I pray for all those who are caring for her. I want her to know that I love her dearly. I have many friends and aquaintances, but I can only count on one hand those who have touched me so deeply. I continue with the legacy she began with me.

2 comments
  • Christl Buskohl
    Christl Buskohl Thanks for sharing, Sal. And I am sending energy her way. I find it awe inspiring when I get the opportunity to pass on the kindness and compassion others have shown me. A pay it forward for the soul :) With that, one never leaves this world.
    May 30, 2012 - 1 likes this
  • Patriarch/Archbishop Daniel Fashingbauer
    Patriarch/Archbishop Daniel Fashingbauer Sal thank you for baring your soul and telling what led you to becoming the person you are today. Yours is a classic story when something bad or evil happens to u in stead of looking to our Heavenly Father, we go else where, thinking He wont want us comin...  more
    May 30, 2012 - 1 likes this