Weather, Work & Writing

Three things have engaged me in recent weeks: the changing weather, work opportunities, and attention to writing. The change to fall weather, even in mild-climated Central Texas, is quite different for us after living in a tropical climate at sea level for so many years. There it was hot and humid year-round and sunrise and sunset varied only half an hour each day throughout the year. Not so in Texas. Daylight hours are shortening as night hours increase, and we've already needed to turn on the heat. Quite significant changes for us but pleasant!

CrossWorld invited us to be mentors in a Next Steps event in Ft. Worth two weeks ago, certainly a new ministry engagement for us. Was good to participate, serving as sounding boards and to offer a bit of advice to a mature couple wanting to increase mission awareness in their church. Most of the 13 participants were in their 20's or 30's and at various levels of dedication and preparation for cross-cultural service. We could observe first hand this innovative approach our agency is using in its mobilization/recruitment efforts to reach the nations.

Then came another opportunity: to fill in for our pastor and teach the 6:30 AM Men's Bible Study this week. The New You was the topic, based on 2 Cor. 5:17, and I was pleasantly surprised at the positive response of the 60 men. Of course, by using Gary's detailed sermon notes from when he preached this message ten years ago, half my preparation was already done! And the Lord did the rest, enabling me to illustrate and present the lesson in an understandable manner, according to comments received. So, I am grateful to God for these recent new work experiences, giving Him the credit for anything someone may have found helpful.

And the writing? When I first joined Writing Class at Sammons Center in October, I thought it was going to be very theoretical and too much about modern poetry which I didn't understand or find particularly meaningful. My opinion has changed and now I am motivated to read more widely and to revise and create more of my own stories. In fact, after locating a file of my own poems (that rhyme!) from years ago, I now desire to compile them for my family. (Surely there's someone out there who'd like to read them?!) However, my wife and I are still pondering what to do with a couple of more personal, early poetic expressions of our relationship!

So, with this report on our changing weather, new work experiences, and renewed interest in writing, I rest my case, wishing for you a wonderful, safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving season!