{the best goodbye}

She had been coming to the salon for some time now. Her first stylist left a year or so ago and she had seen Mary since than. She liked Mary very much and didn't have any complaints about her hair cuts. However, as God's providence would have it, Mary was on vacation last week and Gladys was desperate for a trim.
Background: Gladys loves Jesus. She went to college where she met her roommate, they became the dearest of friends and continued to live together for the next thirty years. Both single women, serving the Lord in different capacities, finding their identity and satisfaction in Christ.
In her 60's Gladys married a widower, whom she knew from her church. Gladys retired from her job shortly after they were married, aware that he had heart problems and not sure how long they would be together. She thanked the Lord for everyday of the 8 wonderful years she had the privilege to be married to him.
Since he passed she returned to her job from before, where she has worked for the last 7 years. She is the lady you want at your work. So full of joy and light.
Gladys is retiring again from her job and is planning to move next week to eastern Washington, to be near her step daughter she dearly loves.
Hence the desperation for the haircut.
This is where I get the joy of knowing Ms. Gladys.
All smile, sparkly gray eyes that match her silvery hair that swoops over her brow, and a voice that is soothing yet confident. A woman who has aged beautifully with grace. Even here there is evidence that she is so sure of who she is in Christ she is not concerned about wrinkles or gray hair. Don't get me wrong, this is not a woman who has let herself go, looks haggard or weathered. She is put together and gorgeous as ever. What is inside her is radiant and showing through.
We visit as I cut, blow dry, curl, comb, and spray her hair (ahhh, the beauty shop).
I was so encouraged and refreshed by her. It was when she left that I wont ever forget.
As she slipped her coat on she looked at me and said genuine and confidently,
"I'll see you in heaven!"
It was so simple, and true. She meant it, I believe it.
The likely hood of me ever seeing her again this side of heaven is slim.
But I will see her again.
And I'll be sure to hug her.