So this is why Shannon has this particular interest. Of course, she cares about the old Chief, and has prayed for him. But also, she knows that whatever the old Chief is presently going through, her dad will also be going through. She wants to be somewhat prepared ...and so she wants to check in on the old Chief, but first she has to call back to the States ...to Michigan, to help prepare Mom for what is going on:

"I'm doing fine, Mom.  How about you?  You sound tired ...must be all that celebrating.  By the way, happy birthday, Mom!"     
                    

Shannon smiles as she listens to Mom's response over the phone, "Well, technically speaking, it is my birthday.  But it's only a couple hours past midnight here.  But don't worry about that.  It's always so good to hear from you.  I know you must be caught up in everything ---it's a wonder you remembered my birthday.  But you are always sweet that  way.  I miss you so much, Shannon." 

   Maggie listens as Shannon replies, "I'm so sorry, Mom. I didn't mean to wake you.  I never could get those time zones straight." 

   Mom laughs, "Don't apologize.  I know you don't get much occasion to call.  And you know I'm worried sick about you all the time.  The best thing you could have done for me was to call.  You don't know how good it is to hear from you.  It always seems like forever to me, but I know you don't get a chance very often."

   Shannon is eager to move on with the conversation, "Mom, I have to tell you …I've had the most fantastic adventure here.  God works wonderful miracles in the mission field ---way beyond our imaginations." 

   Shannon can't see her Mom smile.  Everyone back home was aware of Rebekkah's surprise shipment. Mom imagines part of the reason Shannon hadn't called sooner was that she had received her surprise Arabian horse and she had probably ridden it every day from dawn until dusk, thinking of nothing else.  But Shannon is so sweet.  She had remembered her Mom's birthday.  "Yes, way beyond our imaginations.  I imagine you'll be coming home soon. You will be back in time for your sister's wedding, won't you?" 

   Shannon is preparing to spring her surprise, "I planned on leaving for home last week, but something came up and I've been rather busy ...but I'm doing my best.  I hope you don't mind me bringing someone home with me." 

   Mom laughs again, "Oh, silly me ...for a second there, you had me.   But you're talking about the horse, aren't you?"                                                          

   Shannon draws out the suspense, "No ---that was a wonderful surprise, but this is an even bigger surprise." 

   Mom teases, "So, you met someone?  The wedding bells will still be ringing in my ears from Leah's marriage …and then you?"   

   Shannon knows she will win this game of teasing, "No, it's not my marriage I'm referring to …it's yours." 

   Cindy laughs, "That doesn't sound like you, Sweetie.  I know Fernye has a knack for matchmaking, but don't tell me you are into it too."   

   There is a long pause.  Shannon is beginning to get caught up in her tears again.  And Cindy is just caught in quiet reflection.  She knows Shannon is just kidding, but she doesn't understand the sudden silence.   

   Cindy asks, "Are you still there?"                                                                     

   Kidding aside, Shannon fights back her tears.  "Yes, Mom, I'm still here."                                                                                                                                  

   It is so awkward and difficult to gauge emotions over the phone, but Cindy tries, "Is it Leah's wedding that you're referring to?  Are you worried that I'm going to try to take over her wedding …and not give her any breathing space?   Is that why you said my wedding …because you know how I get?   Well, I don't blame you …I do sort of get carried away.   I get all excited and want to do this and that …but you know how it is with me.   You know that when you say my wedding …you aren't talking about my  wedding.  You know I will never remarry.  But I can still get excited about one of my children getting married." 

   Shannon fights back the tears, "I didn't say your wedding, I said your marriage.  You've made it clear to all of your children that you would never remarry.  And that fact has made this occasion most beautiful."                                   

   Shannon draws a deep breath," Mom, I don't know how to tell you this, but ……"