To Rita....

Dear Rita,

We have never met. I do not know You, but I know of you. You are the friend of Mary Jane's, who remained by her side through thick and thin, until the very end. You are the friend who gave her the gift of knowing such a person as you, and I am sure that Mary Jane's friendship returned to you, the joys that made it all worthwhile. I am sure, there were times filled with laugher and silliness as well as with the pains and sorrows, that could only be shared by friends, as you both were.

I knew of Mary Jane's trip, a year ago, to see her brother. I knew that it was you that accomodated her, to make this long, distance trip, a reality. And it was you, who allowed for them to see each other, one last time. I knew it was you, who kept her spirits high, your encouragement, your support, your care, your love. Her family spoke of you in the highest of respect and gratefulness.

I've known of You, remaining by her side, as her illness worsened. And I know it was you, whose rare and special friendship, kept you beside her until she was gone. Her trust in you never betrayed. Your courage and strength shown as your grief deepened, has not gone unnoticed. Nor has your dedication and your unique, special friendship. You are truely a special person.

I cannot help but think now, for what I do know, that You must surely have your own special angel in heaven that watches over you with such care, just as you did for her, when you were by her side every step of her journey.

How could I have ever known this of you, whom I've never met? To hear your name mentioned and in my mind's thoughts comes the name "Rita", and then I do know you, once again. You are in the thoughts of a family whose hearts have filled with gratitude of you and for whom you are, Rita, and for whom you have been. In the family that Mary Jane belonged, it is You, Rita, that has not only been such a true friend to Mary Jane but you have taught us all the truest meaning of what a friend is. We thank you.

We have never met, Rita, yet I know you. Thank you.
From us all, thank you.