My Girl Friday

careerquest.edu

Administrative assistants.
Now that's an oxymoron if ever there was one.

They aren't assistants.
They really are in charge.
They administrate and so much more.
They do the work that others get credit for
while they are happy to remain behind the scenes.
You know what I mean?

And in the case of the one I have in mind,
she was most gracious and quite kind.
Her competency and professionalism
made me look good
even when I hadn't done my homework.

Her hospitality, honesty and integrity
were a blend of three teas
that was calming, refreshing and invigorating.
Like a hot cup of tea,
she was a source of warmth
when creativity and inspiration grew cold.

Having been a pastor's wife,
she understood the unique challenges I faced
as I attempted to shepherd my flock.  
And so we would talk.
And often we would pray.
And often I would hear her say,
"Don't worry! It will be okay."

I once called her "My Girl Friday."
But that was a bit of a misnomer.
Every day of the week
she'd seek to lift my load
and goad me to do my best.
May she rest in peace
having found release
from chains that age can bring.

And so we sing
a song we love so well.
"I Have a Future All Sublime"
where all in Christ will dwell.

* this tribute was inspired by Lucille Larson, my administrative assistant at Crossroads Covenant Church in Concord, California from 1984-1994. Peace to her memory!