I found some old journals that had been preserved and stored in an old building in my hometown. I perused the pages of several when I came upon this intriguing entry. It was written before copy machines were available. Words written about Elizabeth Payne captured my heart. Those who knew her, loved her. They were proud of her. They had learned from her. She was a woman to emulate. If only I could call her to come over for tea. She was a cherished soul in the community where she lived who had moved on to a better place. Her departure created a chasm here that would not easily be filled and would be felt for a long time. Elizabeth Payne's life, lived over a century before, is impacting my now. What do you think of her?
The entry as written:
~ Resolutions~
Elizabeth Payne
Died February 10th
"Whereas God in His infinite wisdom has called from us our beloved and cherished sister, Elizabeth Payne.
Be it resolved, that in death of our sister Cadmus Grange #350 has lost a true and worthy member, a woman of excellent traits of character, proven by so many years of association among us. We shall ever cherish and keep in memory her purity of character, loving disposition and gentle ways that go to make up a true and noble woman.
Be it further resolved that we extend our most tender sympathy in this the saddest of all afflictions, that we dedicate a page of our journal to her memory, and that copies of these resolutions be sent to the family and to the neighboring papers for publications."
Mrs. E. M. Sappington
Mrs. Theo Mac Intyre
Blanche McMichaels
After reading this eloquent journal entry, I slowly turned the yellowed pages to find more contributions of honor written as a memorial for others who had departed. This was the only page dedicated in this way.
"Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all. Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing but a woman who fears the Lord shall be praised." Proverbs 31:29-30
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