“‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, or sisters, you did it to me.'” Matthew 25:36-43

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This dialogue is from a text message exchange between Lynn Phillips and Grace Roberts. Mary Jane Falletta, Lynn’s mother, is in the final stages of Alzheimer’s, and Grace has been helping out as Lynn’s Care Team leader.

Grace: She is so special to me and I’m thankful you are sharing her with me. I’m so honored. It makes me swell with happiness watching you love and care for your mom. Every mother and daughter should have that relationship.

Lynn: Your words about mom and me bring tears to my eyes. I have not always appreciated her/us, as I should. Thank you for being such an important person in our lives as we make this walk.

Grace: This disease is so hard to watch, especially for you. How can science have not found a cure for it? Rest when you can. Much love to you and my friend, Mary Jane. That’s such a pretty name.

Lynn:  It is a pretty name.

Grace: I would probably start crying–so good thing we are texting. When I think of that sweet prayer she said last night. It started off like the regular prayer she says over her food.

She paused and I waited, thinking she had forgotten it. But what she said is so powerful.

She asked God to watch over the people who were hungry and cold. She paused again and said:  “God, I don’t like that…”

I don’t think any priest or pastor could have said it better. I felt her prayer and am continuing to be amazed at the wonderful caring person she is. God is so good to allow me to witness Mary Jane praying for mercy for his hungry, cold children.

Lynn: God is good. Mamma is good. You are good. So I can be good. Peace (ok, now the tears)

Grace: Lynn is good too.

• According to the National Alzheimer’s Association more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s dementia.
• Every 67 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s.
• Source: Alzheimer’s Association Alzheimer’s Disease Facts and Figures 2014