Over the course of the past several months, I’ve reconnected with a host of friends from high school. With one or two exceptions, it is been almost five months shy of half a century since we last had contact. The amazing thing about many of the newfound old connections, it seem like it was only yesterday that we last visited. It is really kind of nice.
One of the friends from high school is a lady named Lynn McGrath. From what I’ve gleaned from her postings or responses to postings, she is really well connected and seems to be at the top of her game. For the life of me, try as I may, I could not remember her. The “Aha” moment came this week when she responded to a posting related to my brother. Her kinds words touched my heart.
“Donnie, I read yesterday's blog and now this from your younger brother. I am so thankful that you shared with us. You and Ronnie were the first "twins" I ever met. You guys were the
"Stars" at Rusk Elementary, everyone loved you so much, you were so special. No one could tell you apart, it was all so fun! I know there is a connection between twins that others can't relate to or understand. We all hurt when Ronnie was lost, I can only imagine your total devastation to loose your twin, brother and other self. My heart hurt too. A couple of years ago my family visited Washington DC, I went to the Vietnam Memorial Wall and found Ronnie's name and paid respect for his sacrifice. I will never forget that experience. I will never forget the twins that we all loved. And how God has different paths for all of us. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to express condolences to you, to know you have healed, and that you have made helping others your life's work. Love to you and your family. Melba Lynn (Bryce) McGrath.
The mystery was solved. Lynn McGrath was formerly Melba Bryce. Yes, I remember her like it was yesterday. Our history goes back to elementary school. What kind words of affirmation she had to share. It touched my heart.
On the same day, I also connected the dots and realized that Carolyn Ferren is not, as I previously thought, a former classmate from high school. I recently accepted her Facebook friend request and simply assumed she was a friend from long ago. She wrote this week inquiring about how to get a copy of my book. She then explained her reason for wanting it.
“Some years ago, when I was working as a mortgage processor, there was a gentleman in my office who began telling me about a good buddy of his from the Vietnam War. When he said his friend's name was Ronald Forrester I was almost frozen in my chair. I pulled up my tribute page and as he started reading he said "that's him"! He sat there and told me about that day that Ron went missing and promised to return with a photo to let me see what my adopted hero looked like. Needless to say, I was in tears. It was very surreal to me. When I decided to adopt a MIA, I requested a Marine (because of my Father) from Texas (because I had moved to Texas from Philadelphia). I am so honored to have been given your brother. Thank you and God bless.”
Mystery solved. Carolyn Ferren has a website posting entitled “My Adopted Missing American Hero.” On her posting, she makes the request, “Please Join Me in Praying For Him and His Family.” Carolyn’s affirmation of support for my brother through the Adopt a Hero Program touched my heart. She previously was a stranger. Though we were Facebook friends, I had no idea of our connection. Today, I regard her as a real friend.
All My Best,
Don