Friends, Neighbors and Countrymen

We've been in Maryland for about 4 days now and have been with wall-to-wall people since our arrival.  (One of the benefits of pastoring two churches in the same area over the span of 11 years is that when you come back for a visit at least someone wants to see you.)  And it's been great catching up, hanging out and reminiscing.

Why do you suppose it takes going away to realize the impact and import that some people have in our lives?  Maybe it's that only when we come back to visit do we, together, take the time to remember, reflect and dialogue.  Which is what I've been doing for a lot of the past 96 hours (that and answering the most pressing of questions, such as:  So, how's the food in England? or Can you get American football over there or are you stuck with just soccer?)

I've been reminded of so much since I've been back:  soul-draining successes, life-giving failures, et.  But most importantly, I've been reminded that there really are people who have allowed me to make something of a difference in their lives. And in entrusting at least some aspect of their life to me, they have in turn made something of a difference in my life.

In the 6 months we've been in England, I suspect I've spent more time remembering my flaws and failures more than anything else.  In the four days since I've been here I've been persuaded that the people I've spent the last 11 years of my life with have, in fact, made me better.

Oh yeah, and one other thing I have been reminded:  friends, true friends, really are a gift from God.

Peace.

Comments

[kathryn]

you may not get some of these, but adding on the list of questions:

do you like the school?
when does it start?
when does it end?
how large is it?
do you have many friends?
do you understand what people are saying?

and my favorite (and sadly, used a lot):

do they speak english?

[Las tres amigas]

Thank you for squeezing us in!

We love you

[Bill Vanderpool]

Terrific to see you Ron, if only for a sliver of time. Not sure if it is the walking or the Carolina Sauna, but you look great, and it sounds like scholarly work is good to you as well. As for making a difference, you and your family were an integral part of what drew us into Cornerstone, and a big reason why we stayed and have become part of the family. You are missed, but we are enjoying hearing all about your adventures abroad.

Hannah and I will keep you informed with regard to Norah's new little sister. Good luck with all of your endeavors, travel safe, and know you are in our prayers.

[Donna]

So are you coming to New Orleans?

[Susan Shultz]

What an absolute pleasure to meet you and your family, Ron! Thank you for being a true friend to Matt. You are honestly the first person in his life that he has ever been able to trust. What a gift! Safe travels back to England.

[Paul Coffelt]

Thank you for the positive impact you had in my life as well as the impact you will have in my life through remembering - your words/actions live on.

[adam feldman]

nice. welcome, er, "home?"

[LeAnn Rice]

Ed and I loved getting to spend some time with you, Barb, and the kids. I hope you'll get some time to relax, too. We love you and miss you already.