This is my story about Berniece Raines

I met Bernice Raines at Church where I was a new member. I was at the lowest point in my life after going through a divorce, I gave my X everything except my clothes including all my savings my successful automotive business and even my car as I wanted nothing from our past together. I sought refuge in the Church and found God. I rented a little place where everything in my little world was in walking distance. I was 55 years old and starting life anew. 92 year old Bernice the piano player at Church asked me if I could mow her yard and I without hesitation said of course, it put a little spending money in my pocket but more importantly it connected me with the best friend I have ever had. I started staying over hours after mowing swapping stories about growing up in the country, flowers, God and anything else that came up in conversation. Through the summer I realized how very alone and isolated Bernice was and how hungry she was for companionship. We became really close friends in a matter of 3 months and in early August of that year she asked me if I would stay in her house and take care of her dog and two cats while she went up to Central Texas for her annual family reunion. I of course excepted and found out when she returned she was to immediately to have all her top teeth extracted and asked me to take her. Of course I did and she had a really hard time healing so I stayed by her side, after three days I told her she was doing and looking very good and I probably put to get home. In my heart I did not want to be separated from her and I knew as soon as I walked out the door I would miss and worry about her. Bernice garbed be by the hand and said Steve we are two lonely people why don’t you come live with me and take care of the yard and gardens for room and board, without hesitation and with love you in my heart I accepted. Bernice and I over the past six years have had so many adventures and laughs and yes sometimes even tears. For the very first time in my life I have put someone before myself. I found God and I found the most special and loving friend I have ever known, Bernice Raines. We will celebrate her 96th birthday in late August and we will praise God for giving us another precious year of life to share and new memories to be savored. Funny how the very lowest point in one’s existence can turn its self into the very reason for one’s existence.