This wooden four-drawer file cabinet has been in Bill’s study in Wilmore and Terre Haute, and it came with us to Indianapolis in 2017. The question then was where to store it for easy access. One helper during the move suggested the storage closet. That has been a good space. Now I have room in the study, since Bill’s desk has been given away.
Before moving the cabinet, I decided to go through the drawers and clear out what’s not needed. I’ve only gone through the bottom drawer, and questions already flow through my mind. What to keep and why? What might someone want now or later? Why am I keeping this and that? The bottom drawer contains folders on major trips we’ve made over the years – to Israel, Ireland, and our Amtrack trip out west after Bill’s retirement.
In the file on Israel, I found booklets about locations we toured, even a bunch of postcards. I’ll use the latter, and when our sons visit, they can have any booklets of interest. I also found a lament psalm I wrote in 1996 after returning home. I can picture the setting and how one friend reached out to me with comfort. This is what I wrote (without an edit):
“Psalm of Arbel” – based on Psalm 61
Hear my cry, O God.
Attend to my prayer for help.
I have reached the end of my rope,
And my heart is heavy.
I turn around and Your intercessor is there.
On this high rock, lead me
to Yourself, the highest Rock.
Faced with truth about myself,
I run back to You,
My shelter and strong tower You
have always been;
And I abide in Your presence.
As Your precious servant holds
me in comfort,
Enfold us in the shelter of Your wings.
We are Your dear children.
You have heard my vows, O God.
My heritage is a gift from You.
My life is in Your mighty hands.
I am not my own; I abide in You.
Your mercy and truth preserve me.
I can sing praise to Your name,
now and forever,
That I may daily live up to my vows
made on Mt. Arbel.
Ann Coker 
Going through his things is a big challenge I’m sure! I know it was with me for both my parents.
I love your lament psalm! I had to look up Arbel, as I was not familiar with it. So interesting!
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That was such a beautiful day! I’ll never forget it being with you and Bill.
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We did have a wonderful adventure in the Holy Land. Thanks for keeping in touch. Love ya heaps ~Ann
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