“‟Renee was a letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. She was ‘a letter from Christ, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God on the tablets of human hearts’ (2 Corinthians 3:2). That’s why all those who knew her were so profoundly touched by her life. – Ann Schwab, Registered Nurse and friend
“‟This is a beautiful, beautiful testimony to the Lord’s work in Renee’s life. It takes the valleys and weaves them into a powerful testimony, a springboard for healing. – Jen Leyes, friend of the family
“‟In Christ, we are commanded to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15). I did both as I lived through these events with the Rickard family and now read this tender telling of Renee’s story. My wife Linda found in it “a mother’s heartfelt effort to make sense of an unthinkable loss.” The account is steeped in Scripture, reflecting Karyl’s daily dependence on the Word of God as her source of hope and strength. She also interviewed many of her daughter’s teachers, pastors, mentors, and friends. The result is a volume that honors Renee, shows clearly the role faith and the local church played in her life, and demonstrates the caring, encouraging impact Renee had on those around her. – James D. Craig, former pastor and friend of the family
“‟On these pages, you will find stories of Renee, her laughter, adventure and a life lived to its fullest. Renee encouraged and inspired me to take challenges both in MMA and my personal life. I never felt judged, nothing but encouraged by extraordinary challenges. She had so much energy that it was contagious. The two of us brought life to the Academy. Because of Renee, and her inspiration, I am in college. – Angie Speer, MMA friend
“‟I loved the book – the voice, emotion and authenticity. It definitely carries the energy of the Lord. The book is for anyone who needs more God in his or her life.” – Best-selling author Tom Bird, and creator of the “Write a Book in a Weekend Retreat”
“‟I loved reading the book and getting to know Renee. What fascinated me the most about Renee was that she remained the same from childhood through young adulthood. Her priorities in life were other people. She had a way of making people feel important and loved. She truly was an inspiring, incredible young woman! – Dr. Scott Cooper, Chiropractor
“‟Gene and Karyl Rickard have built a 35-year legacy of service and faith at Traders Point Christian Church. They introduced their children to Jesus and trusted Traders Point’s Student Ministry to help connect their kids to Christ and to community. This book is a beautiful celebration of their daughter Renee, and TPCC is grateful to have played a small role in her extraordinary life. – Aaron Brockett, Lead Pastor of Traders Point Christian Church, Indianapolis, Indiana
“‟What a wonderful, life-giving book! Each chapter is a bite-size morsel of spiritual truth, shared through the “whispers from heaven” that undergirded Renee’s life. This will nourish your soul. – Debbie Abel, PhD, RDN, colleague, Indiana University, and friend
“‟The book captures Renee’s enthusiasm for law enforcement. She was a solid, capable, professional and fair officer who got along with her peers and supervisors. Her performance of her duties reflected her moral compass. – Aaron Mathewson, fellow Police Officer
“‟Our days can be shortened just as Renee’s were. The book showed the importance of intercessory prayers and, unbeknownst to her parents, how God answered them. Walking with the Lord as Renee did is the best gift we will ever have on this earth! – Jane Jenkins, Bible Study Fellowship and friend
“‟This book is a testimony to the Hand of God. It is evident that the Holy Spirit guided Karyl’s compilation of this book. It so clearly shows what a walk and relationship with the Lord is like – His Spirit in you. – Louise Little, PhD, Emerita faculty, University of Delaware