The Velveteen Rabbit

"He was a Real Rabbit at last, at home with the other rabbits."
Some years ago, I was re-introduced to this children's classic by my friend Beverley. A priest and pastoral counselor for nearly 27 years, Bev helped me (and countless others) through some tough times; and inevitably, our discussions would turn back to this book. Like the Velveteen Rabbit , we--each of us--sometimes feel worn out and shabby and not so shiny like the other rabbits in the toy room. But the book, and Beverley, reminded me that becoming human and real means having to go through the tough times. That's what the Real Stuff of life is made of.
Today my friend Beverley died, and if anyone on earth was like the Velveteen Rabbit it was Bev. Her body was a bit worn around the edges but the inside was oh, so strong and beautiful. In the midst of her own struggles, notably the past five years battling cancer, she'd want to know what was going on with you, or your family or your job. It wasn't a put-on, either.
She communicated God's love and grace and care so well--not in a loud way like many of the TV preachers, but in a soft-spoken manner that projected more than a megaphone ever could.
Bev, I for one am honored that I got to know you, and happy that you're now "home with the other rabbits." Godspeed.