“I am the sprouting vine and you’re my branches. As you live in union with me as your source, fruitfulness will stream from within you-but when you live separately you are powerless.” John15:5

We Are The Branches

Winnie comes into my life at just the right time. I’m a young newlywed and a new mom trying to make sense of it all. I need gentle guidance and reassurance. The first time I meet Winnie is at our church; I’m drawn to her warmth. I need this woman in my life. She’s a sprite woman in her early sixties with the energy of a teen. She has raised her children and has great-grandkids.

Her eyes sparkle like she holds the secrets to life. Her face is prematurely wrinkled, likely from the storms she’s weathered, but there is a luminescence of spirit that is unmatched. She exudes hope, enthusiasm, and unwavering trust in God. She calls everyone “kid” and oozes the love of Jesus. She makes you feel like you're the most important person in the room.

Winnie becomes a loyal friend and mentor. She brings me meals when I’m on bedrest and giggles gleefully when my five-year-old says, “Mommy, Winnie has a lot of wrinkles.” She helps me wash my porch windows and teaches me how to be a patient, more loving wife. She prays with me when my husband suffers a devastating diagnosis.

She’s the first friend I want to talk to after I miscarried our second child. She sits with me and cries and points my wounded heart to Jesus. She's equal parts teacher, mentor, friend, and cheerleader. She dolls out wisdom and sweetness. Her faith is more than words, it’s followed by action. She gives her wisdom and time equally as she walks beside me and shows me Christ’s love.

Jesus, in her, shines bright in every situation. It’s like Winnie has a direct line to heaven and a connection with God that is enviable. We spend nine years together until our family moves away, but she leaves an indelible mark on my heart.