Some words of thanks from the Cunningham family
This is an open letter to the friends and family of Clinton Cunningham.
Dear Members of Our Community:
As I think back over the last several months, I see it as a season of contrasts. It has been a very painful time for my family and me as we mourn the loss of Clinton. But at the same time, we have felt great love and peace in the support of this community, a gift from God, that surrounds and supports us.
Throughout the highs and lows, there have remained constants to which my family and I have been able to anchor ourselves. Indeed, we have so much that we are thankful for. We have been able to wake up each morning, and though we may not know what the day will bring, we are bolstered by the knowledge that many, many people are praying for us and thinking about us. The abundance of food and other acts of service have been such tangible blessings that meet practical needs while ministering to our hearts as well. The tremendous financial generosity through the Go Fund Me fundraiser, gifts, and the benefit dinner event in April can be, sometimes, overwhelming, but please know that we are so deeply grateful.
Anyone who knew him even briefly would testify that Clinton was a man of the utmost compassion. He was always the first to give of himself to help someone else, and he genuinely derived such joy and life from serving others. This trait was an undeniable outpouring of his strong faith. In many ways, I see Clinton’s kind heart reflected in the incredible support our children and I have received from this community. Even in times of loneliness — or perhaps especially in those times — these glimpses of compassion like Clinton’s are gifts
in and of themselves, and they strengthen us.
Perhaps one of the most poignant memories that
has come to mind time and again since March has been the day of Clinton’s funeral, when the streets were lined with members of the community. Despite what my human mind does not understand, the Lord is faithful to put before my human eyes reminders of his love, such as this memory cannot help but imagine the same sight mirrored gloriously in the heavenly realms by the communion of saints, who communicate God’s infinite, unalterable goodness to us. In heaven and on earth, we are well cared for. Truly, we are blessed.
So thank you. Thank you for the prayers, for the words of encouragement, for the thoughtful acts of service, and for the gifts of every shape and size. As well,
“Anyone who knew him even briefly would testify that Clinton was a man of the utmost compassion. He was always the first to give of himself to help someone else, and he genuinely derived such joy and life from serving others. This trait was an undeniable outpouring of his strong faith. In many ways, I see Clinton’s kind heart reflected in the incredible support our children and I have received from this community.”
— Kelly Cunningham, Newtown Square
I know that, in times like these, there are people who are giving, caring, and supporting in ways of which I am unaware. But I pray that Our Father, who sees all good deeds, would bless you. Each of you has been his hands of love and care for us. May his hand of grace be with you all. On behalf of my children and our extended family, thank you.
Kelly Cunningham, Newtown Square