Dear Susan - May 1 2009

Dear Susan,

I thoroughly enjoyed our lunch.  It’s just great to catch up with you on things. It’s really good to hear about what’s happening to you personally and also about what’s happening in the church.

Don’t worry about talking to me about church matters and issues. I enjoy knowing what’s going on, hearing about people, new and old issues.  It was all a part of my life for over 20 years so none of it is boring to me or too heavy. Also some of it is downright funny. I’m glad you can share church stuff with me since your network of people that might understand is real slim. When you were a student, did I ever tell you that ministry is pretty damn lonely?

To say that I admire you for your leadership with MABC is a large understatement.  I think you are doing a terrific job.  You face tough issues head on.  You’re greatly creative.  You’re not afraid to be yourself.  You try to keep your feet on the ground spiritually.  You seem to be able to keep a sense of humor about yourself and what you can accomplish.  I really think that at this point in time, you are giving the church exactly the kind of leadership she needs.

I can’t imagine ever being active with MABC again, but I do want to come around more in the future. My job at MABC was the best one I ever had. (West Point was a close second) Overall, I look back on my time there with joy and gratitude.  Also, there are some folks there that I care about very much and miss.   Some of these Jeri and I have continued to communicate with like Michael, Molly, Hazel, Tabitha, Brenda Lee, Aki and Fumio, Dylan, Waka, and some others. But there are those that I would only see by coming by the church from time to time, which I want to do.

You mentioned that you would like for me to be a part of an anniversary celebration next year. Sounds good.  I’ll need to know when it is so I can make sure I’m not out of the country or something. Concerning me preaching, I don’t want to disappoint you but I just can’t imagine preaching again.  I am so not there anymore. I would be open to a short presentation or reading I guess. Let’s talk about it some more.

When I return from Texas in late May, I’ll check in with you so we can set up another lunch.  Also at that time let’s set up a time when the four of us can get together…probably within the first couple of weeks of August.

OK Rev.  Watch out for those bikers and beer drinkers who study the Bible.

Mike