Most people know her as Kate, or Mrs. Kate if you are one of the tinies in the DiscoveryLand hallway on Sunday mornings. If you are her dad, you might call her "Little Rat". Or, if you are her brilliant older sister Sarah, you may call her "sis". Her mom calls her "Kakey Bakey". You may know of Katelin Jo Shelton Wasion as the wife of Codi, granddaughter of Sterling or previous roommate of any number of girls who's names start with the letter "A" . Others know things about her. For instance, the fact that she was on the golf team in high school, is an avid Dallas Mavs fan or that she loves Diet Dr. Pepper and Peanut M&Ms. You may be privy to the fact that she delights in Lord of the Rings, hates karaoke and is secretly a good singer. But none of this is even a fraction of the absolute marvel that is Kate. So let me tell you what I know.
Everyone's story is littered with trials and tests and Kate's is no different. What is set apart about Kate is the way she perseveres. She would be the first to try to convince you that she doesn't do it right all the time. And while that's true, because as well all know, no one is perfect, Kate shows up. Through every tear, burst of anger, fit of confusion or any of the emotions that come with life, she ever-increasingly chooses the better instead of the easy.
What you also need to know about Kate is that she insanely passionate. She genuinely loves and weeps over the poor, broken and hurting, especially if they are African children. Fiery intercession, trips to Kenya and South Africa and years of supporting the same Compassion child are just a few of the ways that she shows whats in her heart. In a completely different way, but with the same ferver, she bleeds all things Texas. I halfway expected her bridals to be in field of bluebonnets. No lie. This includes but is not limited to Texas football, Baylor anything, and the Dallas Cowboys. One day she will have a Texas room in her home. I believe it with all my heart.
Humor is also one of Kate's hallmark traits. While she's got "dad jokes" to spare, her timing is impeccable and even after nearly decades of friendship with her, I'm still consistently surprised by her wit. So what if she "tee-hees" at her own jokes. You will hardly notice as you belly laugh on the floor. Her appreciation of humor is also endless and she loves it most when people fall. She is the life of the party and can't be convinced to stop dancing if an old fave pops up on the playlist.
(side note: she hates when elderly people fall. It makes her quite sad, in fact)
If you learn nothing else about this true beauty from my little ramblings, know this: Katelin Jo is not just a great friend. If you let her in to your heart, she will set up house and never leave. She might make mistakes from time to time, but she will be one of the best, deepest and truest friends you've ever know. Your heart will overflow with the gratitude of being with her, even if for a little while.
Kate, I salute you!
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