daily life as life goes on . . .

This last week has hit me hard.

I’ve travelled a bit, talked to young and old, and come to a hypothesis.

“A sustained period of disconnection with people and enforcement of restrictions makes for a sadness of soul.”

There has always been a resiliency within the ranks of vocational and voluntary church leaders.  The bounce back effect has kept optimism within the church body as a whole.  But . . . to be the policeman and the distant executive has made pastors and church leadership a targeted group in this climate of despair. 

The question at this time?  Is there enough left in the tank to water the soul of the leaders?

My discussions, talks and correspondence suggest there will need to be a shower, and perhaps a rain storm, to restore some souls.

Nine years ago today my first wife, Jill, passed away.  Today I was with a friend who asked me about her passing.  This was her birthday, and she remembered Jill well.  Especially that she passed away on her birthday. 

There is a sense in which time heals. 

I have been stretched for the good!  I make my own meals and do my own laundry – things that Jill graciously and happily did for me.  I have carried forth dreams of ministry that we shared together. 

That does not mean that I do not miss her.  I do. 

With fondness I hear someone playing a piano with skill and emotion – and I am transported back.  I enjoy a home crafted meal (that I didn’t make) – and I remember health and wellness that came from a cook’s ability. 

I am thankful today!  Blessings come our way.  In packages we love to unwrap and in the releasing of gifts we have been given for but a short time.

I try to pray the Lord’s prayer each day.  Recently I decided to summarize some of what I have learned from the prayer:

• Our Father – you are what we aren’t
• Bring us closer to you
• Give us enough to live on each day
• Help us to live with others
• Keep us out of trouble
• You can do it

My computer hard drive decided to melt-down – it’s mental health burned out.

Some, but not all, was backed up.  Most things nowadays go on the cloud – so not a great problem.  The work to renew my computer and the cost were affordable.

As I reflected on this “catastrophe”, I’ve begun to see this as a “do over”.  Some of my original settings and approaches were normal when a better practice was available.  So, I’m searching out better practice right now.  Starting over with a bit of wisdom behind me. 

Not a bad place to be!