Faith & Family

Mrs. Samuelson, though I've never had the privilege to meet you in person, I have come to know how remarkable you are as I work with your son, David and he just glows when he discusses his mother and because he is such a fine man, I know how wonderful a mother you are (& Mr. Samuelson, I give you kudos as well!). You broke through the glass ceiling and paved the way for more women to hold public office and with that accomplishment alone, you created a legacy! But, knowing David, you have also created a legacy of raising children with beautiful, caring souls and I, for one, am very grateful for all you've done.

I don't recall the day we met, but I do recall the first thing I learned from you Ruth. You were giving a personal testimony about giving. How God had blessed your family as a result of trusting Him and giving beyond the tithe. You inspired me that day to have the same trust in God and consequently we've exceeded the tithe and seen His blessings. That wasn't the last of God’s blessings you shared. You taught us about adoption, you wisely counseled and mentored me to be a better parent and father. You made me a better teacher of God's word because I was scared that I wouldn't be able to answer one of your Sunday School questions. I have to admit I felt a bit of pride if I didn't get "Ruthed" by a question. I've seen too many interns and first timers have that experience. And while I smile about those moments you never asked a question to show off. You honestly wanted to learn and go deep into God’s Word. Your words to and about others were always honest and true, kind and compassionate. Even when you expressed frustration with a fellow legislator you did so with grace. Your words were always well chosen and wise. I love your ability to memorize scripture - amazing! Most of all I've watched your marriage. You and Ken are best friends and it shows in your words, glances at one another and in what you model. I am grateful to witness all of these things and to call you friend.

You and Ken have been a Christian role model to so many. When our kids were babies and toddlers at church, your words of wisdom helped us shape our family life. Breakfast weeks one on one with our kids that started in preschool-- are now a continued ritual in middle school and high school. Financial discussions from the Crown studies put us on a unified path when Brad and I were newlyweds-- we are 20 years this spring. Personally, the memorization of scripture and being willing to share those verses openly in community outside of the church. Walking the Charlotte Greenway, always reminds us of your civic service. It is a reminder of God's creation. Thank you!

Dear Ruth, this is Courtney's Aunt Terri in Virginia writing to you. My husband, Peter and I were so proud and honored that our daughter, Michelle was able to be Courtney and David's flower girl in their wedding. At the time, in 2010, Michelle was only eight-years-old. I will always remember the beautiful words you spoke at the family rehearsal dinner; you made a lasting impression on me as a Mother, as you shared your beliefs about praying for your children's future. That evening you spoke passionately about how you prayed for your children when they were very little, to someday meet the companion that God intended for them to spend their lives with. You commented that as you said those prayers while David was still just a toddler, you believed God had already chosen his soul mate, Courtney. You spoke about how you believed their marriage was divinely ordained. And now we see in them a beautiful couple building their lives together in Christian faith, committed to each other, their family and their community. Of course, NOW we see the MOST miraculous manifestation of those prayers; our precious Margaret Ruth.

Christian clergy are expected to lead and inspire. Yet, when the rare lay person can muster the discipline to study the Bible thoroughly, hold strong to their convictions in a world of disbelief, and lead with compassion and love, then families, communities, and nations are changed. Ruth, you are one of those rare people and we all are blessed to know you. We in Charlotte and North Carolina are yet to know the impact you have made as a Christian servant. You epitomize the title of Oswald Chambers' daily devotional "My Utmost for His Highest" . In that pursuit, I have seen you not as a stoic but as one with a tender heart that is convinced of and convicted by the love of our Savior and resolute in the need to share that love with others.