Margaret Rigby

Can you tell me a little about yourself?

The first 21 years of my life were spent in Rushden, Northamptonshire where I lived with my parents, two sisters and a brother. My early schooling was at a local Infant/Junior school and then attended Wellingborough High School. On leaving school I did secretarial work with a firm of Accountants/Auditors.

I met my husband Brian at the Wesleyan Reform church that we attended and after marriage moved to London, again doing secretarial work, this time with the Avon Tyre company. When our eldest child Beverley was about 14 months we moved to Dunstable when Brian obtained a teaching post at the Grammar School. Carolyn and Neil were added to the family and I helped at a local playgroup scheme.

Opportunity arose in 1974 to go back to work and for 22 years I was Secretary at Downside Lower School. 'Retirement' came in 1996 on 30^th April and the following day, 1^st May, together with Brian, we became Assistant Managers at Christian Books. This position lasted until 2008 when I 'retired' again although am still doing some voluntary work in the shop.

We are greatly blessed with eight grandchildren - four girls and four boys - each one giving us great pleasure as we watch them grow up. Elderly parents have needed much assistance during the past few years, three have now passed away and only my 97year old father remains.

I enjoy reading, visiting, writing letters (an old fashioned art these days!) and holidays camping in our tent.

What would you say to someone who said that life is all about "living for today"

The phrase 'living for today' conjures up the idea that no thought has been given to 'to-morrow'. In one sense we can only live for today because we don't know if we will get to-morrow but I don't think it means 'eat, drink and be merry, for to-morrow we die'. If 'living for today' becomes a self-centred way of life then we will probably end up being dissatisfied and unhappy. If, however, our future is secure in a living relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, then we will truly be able to 'live for to-day'. I have heard it said that one should live as if today is your last but plan as if you will live forever - that way we shall surely give careful thought to the way in which we spend each day.

How and why did you become a Christian?

From the age of 3 I was sent to Sunday School, so grew up knowing about the bible and some of the things it taught. Around my early teens I was aware that I was a sinner and committed my life to Christ. It would be nice to say that from then on I never looked back but sadly there was a time when I wandered away from the Lord. Not a deliberate decision but a gradual backsliding as family responsibilities took over. Thankfully over a period of time the Lord restored me and it is with great joy that I now seek to serve Him each day as opportunity arises.