HBD Dianne Brouwer
While many people have left their fingerprints on my life, there are a few people who have actually altered my DNA. Dianne Brouwer, you are one of those people and I am a different person because you have been in my life!
From the beginning of our time in Scottsdale, I watched with admiration how you loved your family well and how well you loved your church family and ministry. I have learned so much from you as a pastor’s wife, a mom, a friend and a minister. I am honored to call you friend and thankful for your continued role in my life!
You gave godly advice and you valued it yourself, even asking for it. Some of the best advice I ever got on parenting came from you, when you told me to be a good student of my child by actively listening to, observing, and learning about my child’s unique needs, interests, learning style, and personality, and by doing so essentially treat my child like a teacher and myself as a student ready to learn with respectful willingness and understanding. What made it even stronger was the fact that you backed up your words with the way you parented your girls. Additionally, you then went the extra mile and loved on my daughter so I could minister to junior high students and not have to worry about her health and safety!
I always felt supported in ministry – even when you might have made more conservative decisions you trusted my choices and plans. My creativity was able to take root and grow with such support. I am so grateful that you trusted me with your treasured daughters – especially Michelle – who was the “only” girl in a sea of hormonal boys (one of whom she married), when I began!
I learned about hospitality and generosity from you too. You always offered your home, your pool, your time, your vehicle and more to make sure ministry was meaningful and effective. I watched you live out the reality that everything belongs to the Lord as you stewarded well.
I am especially grateful for our continued friendship and the ways you model prayerful connection. Thank you for paying attention; I feel seen and heard. I love you and ask God’s continued favor and blessing over your life.
With grateful admiration and joyful memories,
Always – Mirm <+><