Tribute to Donna Maricelli

Wow....where do I begin?
Donna Maricelli has impacted my life in an
unforgettable way! I will be forever indebted
to her.
You see, during the DARKEST time of my life
she stood by me and with me. Many times she sat
for hours and just let me talk. (like she didn't have
anything else better to do! ) There were times when
the pain was SO GREAT and my despair was seemingly
more than I could bear -- She would stand with me in
church and literally just hold my hand! I cannot
begin to convey my deep felt gratitude. I know
without any doubt that I was placed in her hands
for that specific time in my life.
She is such a woman of beautiful grace and wisdom!
Her heart is completely devoted to PEOPLE and her
love for souls is unsurpassed.....She herself at that
dark time in MY life was also going through a
tremendous storm and life changing experience.
Yet, she NEVER wavered in her commitment to
God or to the people she so dearly loves.
She looked beyond my selfishness and spiritual
immaturity (Thank God) and just LOVED me
and kept encouraging me even when things
really seemed hopeless.
I can honestly say that I never felt truly loved
by anyone (except my husband) until I met
Donna Maricelli.
These words still echo in my mind/heart:
'Don't abort the mission!' -- 'Keep Believing' --
'I Believe in you' -- 'There is greatness inside of you'
'You're an encourager of women' -- 'There's greatness
in Rodney' -- NO criticism, NO 'you must have done
something bad/wrong to cause this to happen' --
Nope, just love, prayer, guidance, support and
encouragement!
I must emphasize on the PRAYER. Many times
she warred against the enemy in prayer for me
and with me.
This lady knows how to pray! She knows The
Word of God and uses it!
She was the first person in my life to ever look
me in the face and say: "I Believe in You"
That alone, is priceless to me! She was the first
person to ever ask me what my passions/giftings
were. Passion? Giftings? ???????
Needless to say, at that time, I was clueless!
Because of her, I realize how vitally important
it is to validate my daughter. (and others)
(I don't want Montana to be in her late 30's
before she feels of any worth!)
Thank you Donna Maricelli for being who you
are and allowing God to use you.
I know you will never change because you are
commited to the journey and always striving
for Excellence!
I Love You and you will always have a special
place in my heart. Your price is far beyond
rubies.....

Many daughters have done well, but you
excel them all. Charm is deceitful and
beauty is passing,but a woman who fears
the Lord shall be praised.
Proverbs 31: 29-30