When we returned to the USA, I attended third grade at a private Catholic school in Atchison, Kansas.  I remember Bob Hope being at my daddy’s Masters Degree graduation at  St. Benedictine College,  tornados, our neighbor, Mrs.Schooner, and how my closet opened into my older sister’s room.    I remember the three of us girls piled together on Saturday mornings with our blankets to watch cartoons, too.  

Despite challenges in my relationships with my sisters, I love them deeply.  I think of that time in our lives fondly. 

I recall hearing my favorite hymn from that time in my life about five years later at Immaculate Comception Church.  This is a different kind of fondness.  It was like a sister in that it held part of my heart.  It is strange to recall being my daughter’s age and being clearly moved by lyrics and melody so deeply. It wasn’t popular music, it was an old Catholic hymn.  

The main bridge: “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, That you do into me.  “. Thirty-five years later, it’s still on my heart, in my heart and impacting my heart.   It may be the underlying impetus in why I am becoming a living kidney donor. 

My husband and I have talked about it. He is praying with me for the right way to tell the kids.  It may be as simple as the greatest commandment of loving one another.   

The fact I now see Jesus in others is the reason I want to give my kidney to help save another life. I would surely give Jesus a kidney.  I would give my family, friends or anyone I love a kidney.  I am called, no, commanded, to love  everyone.  There are no exceptions.  

God was so generous in giving us two kidneys.  We only need one.  Everything we have is His, regardless.  Not sharing His blessings is not an option.