Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. (Phil. 4:6)

My neighbor and friend, Jamie McClaine (pictured above with her son), is a beautiful woman of faith. She’s the mother to Maci and Gray and the wife to a handsome guy named Fred. I haven’t spoken to Jamie since she took her youngest (son) to college, but she’s been on my mind. I’m not sure she was quite ready for the concept of “empty nest”. Jamie is a truly loving and supportive mother, and wow are those two young people blessed to have her in their lives! This evening as I was reflecting on my college boys, she came into my mind and I decided I should check in on her and also….I’d like to tell you a little more about her! She’s a woman who makes a positive difference for others.

Jamie is gentle, with a bright perspective and a quiet voice. She’s not a physically large person at all, but her heart is bigger than most for sure! She’s caring and compassionate as well. I remember a couple years back a day when we were both attending mass at Guerin Catholic. On this particular day, I began to sweat profusely out of nowhere about half way through, and I had to escape to get some air. I came back in later feeling much better but I didn’t take my seat. Jamie reached out to check on me afterward to make sure I was okay. I assured her that other than just being a woman of a certain age experiencing a poorly timed hot flash, I was going to survive. She laughed and commiserated with me that afternoon, but it was her genuine concern that I recall. That’s typical of Jamie. She goes out of her way to care. When you speak to her, she is listening and she makes you feel like she is totally focused on enjoying that moment with you.

Jamie is a woman of character and integrity, and a peaceful, dignified woman of faith. Honestly, she’s among a select group of gals who make me think of Our Blessed Mother. With her selflessness, quiet light, and her wisdom, I find her a beautiful example of love.

So, Jamie, today seems as good a day as any to tell you that I so admire your faithfulness and your authenticity. Hopefully, you are weathering the new empty nest as well, with your trademark positivity! Thank you for being a wonderful example of holy motherhood and faith– as well as a bearer of light for all around you! Let’s grab coffee soon, okay friend? You are a gem and I am way overdue to say so!!