Ron Smith's recent column concerning his cancer diagnosis was perhaps his most powerful ("Death, I do not fear you; I am just not ready to go," Oct. 21). When I read his doctor's quote, "Fate has something else in store for you," I immediately thought it wasn't the pancreatic cancer. I believe God granted a 20-plus year extension of his life so that he might have a positive impact on the lives of others.

From the outpouring of love, it is evident that he has used that time well. No matter how much time there is "Yet," as his wife so beautifully wrote in her poem, I know that he will continue to be a blessing to others.

Edie Bernier, Baltimore