What if we had never met Gary Kepley?
Our lives were forever changed when we met Gary Kepley. A loving brother of Christ.... What if we had not met him? I know for a fact we probably would not have gotten married.. You see.... Gary and Gail were both such a possitive influence on our lives.. Sidney and I had been dateing and living together for several years.. Both of us thought we were content, and living the life..
Gary, Gail and Katie had horses with us, and we had become very close friends. We had been showing horses all around the country. It was such fun to have them with us. As Sidney and I left a show in OH, we are headed back home, horses on board; Sidney looks at me and says... "Gary talked to me this weekend, and he thinks its time for us to get married".... Gary says "You are perfect for each other".
Well, what a surprise as Gail had just had the same conversation with me... Neither Gary or Gail knew about each others talks.. God is GOOD!! Later that week as Sidney and I debated on the "big question".. Do we... or don't we.... get married.... We both decided that "yes" this is probably the time.. Only with the nudge from Gary and Gail. What a blessing they have been in our lives.
Gary was also our reminder of God. Both of us being raised in church, had drifted away from what life is really about. GOD>> A few years later, Gary gave Sidney a gospel CD from the LeBeaus. He asked us to listen to it, and ask Sidney if he could learn the song "Hanging on a Nail". (Sid is not only a horse trainer, but a beautiful singer and guitar picker). Gary loved to hear him sing..
Sidney didn't get the chance to sing that song to Gary before he passed. But now he sing's in several churches. You see, Sidney and I both have re-dedicated our lives to Christ. Sidney now shares his musical gift with so many people. And each time he sings that song, he will always say.. "Thank you Gary Kepley, my brother in Christ, this is for you. I'm sorry I didn't get to sing this for you while you were still here on earth, but I know you can hear me now, See you soon ol' partner. "
So... What if we had not met Gary Kepley? Neither or us would want to even think of it... Gary was and still is a part of our daily lives. Not a day goes by when either of us would think..... "What would Gary do? "..
We love and miss you Gary!!
Much love: Sidney & Karen