Reverend Nancy Brooks Shaffer

I am referring back to Nancy's beautiful collection of poems and essays, Instructions in Joy for this Sunday's service. It continues to inspire me. Blessings to you, Nancy, for all you did in your all too short life.

Mrs. Brooks, I happened to meet your daughter through a colleague, physician friend of mine who was a dear friend of Nancy's and a member of her congregation. I only knew her a short time after her illness and we shared stories. The physician connected us because I was putting together a book of patient stories and he thought Nancy would like to contribute. She gave me several stories, but I never received an ok from her before she left us. I have been trying to reach you to see if you...

I offer these words of comfort from a sermon Nancy gave as she was leaving her year of interim ministry here in Monterey. Her words help me.
... if you are held in something Larger, the way is far less lonely. What you offer is not from your hands alone, and then this present time is linked to all other times. And then you have the sturdiness to open yourself to the temporary and fleeting - the sturdiness to love it wildly, even though it will end, even though you then will grieve. ...

Thank you, All, for your words about how Nancy's life helped enhance the world she lived in. Marge Brooks

I am very sorry to learn of your loss. I remember Nancy as a kind and gentle person. May God bless you with strength for this time and the knowledge that she is safely with Jesus.

Nancy was a dear colleague, poetic mystic, & tender soul. I cherish our time together in the DC area & will forever be grateful she witnesses the burials we did at Arlington National Cemetery while I was assigned there. Thank you, dear one, for gracing us with your presence, words, & world. - Cynthia Kane, UU minister serving as a Navy Chaplain (Portland, ME)

Marge, Lee, Mike,
I guess this is the way of communication today, but no matter how, there is no way to fully express my sympathy and heartfelt sorrow. I also wish for you to have many good memories.
Love,
Lauren

I am thinking fondly of Nancy as her family, friends and spiritual communities celebrate her life in gatherings today and tomorrow. Her tender life touched many of us, and I will love and remember her always.

Below are words from one of Nancy's recent poems which was set to music - a perfect tribute to her exceptional mind, loving heart and appreciation of melody.

Mending

How shall we mend you, sweet soul?
What shall we use, and how were you torn?

Words cannot express how badly I feel for you. I'm so sorry and look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Love you guys so much. Varvi