My mother has shared with me some of the kind words she has
received from some of you after learning she has decided to move back to North Carolina. I’ve known for a long time what a special
neighborhood you all have created. When
my parents first moved there, I often heard from them how much they enjoyed
their neighbors and the social activities.
I also heard how you cared for one another and looked out for each
other’s welfare, children, pets, and property.
I know many of you have shared in a lot of good times, good food, and
have become really good friends.
The thing that strikes me the most is how you care for one
another during the not-so-good times. I
saw firsthand how everyone came together when a house in your neighborhood was
struck by lightning and caught fire. I
was impressed how the neighborhood men took shifts to watch the streets during
a period of vandalism. And obviously,
the things that impress me the most are how you cared for my family during our
darkest days. My grandmother’s death was
difficult for me and my parents, but they found comfort in each other and in the
outpouring of love and support you provided them. When my dad died just 4 months later, on top
of my grief, I felt a mountain of worry and concern for my mother as she faced
life alone way too soon and so unexpectedly.
The day before Daddy died, I made him a promise to take care of
Mama. Although he could barely talk, he
opened his eyes, nodded his head, and mouthed the words “thank you.” Living and working over 400 miles away, there
was no way I could have kept that promise without you good people. I’ve heard of nearly every act of kindness,
household help, and genuine watch care over her during these last 4 ½ years. What you’ve given me is a measure of peace
and comfort in knowing my mom is surrounded by some really, really good people. Therefore, it’s only right that I share the
“thank you” my dad gave to me with each one of you. I know he would be oh so grateful for
everything each of you has done to be not just a good neighbor, but a genuine
friend.
I’ve heard it said that good friends are hard to find,
harder to leave, and impossible to forget. I know it will be very difficult for my mom to
leave La Fayette Ridge and I know she will never forget any of you. I also know you will miss her and be
concerned for her. So I’ll make each of
you the same promise I made my dad…I will take care of her. My sister and I, along with our spouses and
children will strive to do just as good as you all have. Please give her a call occasionally and if
you’re ever in the Raleigh area, please drop by. I’m sure she’ll treat you to some real North
Carolina pork barbeque; and, don’t be surprised if you hear a little Ray
Charles in the background singing that old sweet song, keeping Georgia on her
mind.
God bless each of you,
Alan Foster
