The Burden of Regret

A few days ago I met with a very successful businessman from Springfield.  We have had several business dealings in the past and although we aren't "pals", we share a mutual respect, and like-ability for one another.

After the purpose of our meeting was satisfied, we were shooting the bull when he shared that as a young man he had felt a call to the pastoral ministry, and for six years, had served as an ordained minister in a well known denomination.  He went on to say that due to an unfortunate series of events he left the pastorate and began his business, some 40 years ago.

Since I am also on a second career after serving as a minister for twenty one years, I was intrigued by his tale. Half of an hour had passed when I asked this burning question; "Do you miss pastoring?"  His reply saddened me, he said, "I felt I would have done more good had I stayed in the ministry".  I understood!  Sitting before me was a man of incredible wealth, and the respect of a city, yet burdened by regret.

As we ended our conversation I thanked him for his honesty, then shared that because of his generosity, and his conduct in business, he had most likely influenced more people for good than any minister could have done, and that I was one of them.  Thank You Sir!

 

An Observer

In my earlier years I loved being in the mix.  Not any more.  The passion and drive, to stir it up has long since faded.  At this point in my life I am content  to observe from the fringe, close enough to capture the emotion, yet far enough away that I do not persuade an outcome.  I no longer desire the responsibility that comes with being in the fray.  I much prefer to watch events unfurl then tell that story. Free from the effects or consequences of the outcome.

To All Our Veterans. Thank You!

Love Crucified Arose

The Making of An American Soldier

For 27 months reporters at the Denver Post were granted exclusive access to teenager Ian Fisher, as he transitioned from being a high school graduate to a soldier in the United States Army. 

Reporters Michael Ray with Bruce Finley and Craig F. Walker, followed Ian from his recruitment, induction, training, deployment and even his return home. This was a great story.  See it here.

Silent Night, Until After Thanksgiving!

Most of our local retail stores are already playing Christmas music.  In our home we never play the yule-tide favorites until after Thanksgiving.  What about you?  When do you start enjoying Christmas carols in your home?

My Christmas List

This morning as I sat at my desk, "Miss November" alerted me to the fact it was already the fifth day of the month, and that Christmas would soon arrive. Armed with this awareness, I decided I must ready my list. 

Christmas List 2009

1. Ties-  My job no longer requires me to wear a tire everyday, so the 40,000 hanging in my closet should last me until 2147.   
2. Underwear- The five pair I currently own have lasted for three years and still have a lot mileage left.
3. Tools-  My 22 year old son, who still lives at home, buys tools, so I will just misplace his. 
4. Cologne- My 22 year old son who still lives at home buys cologne...(you get the picture. :) 
5. Exercise Equipment-  No need, I just throw my clothes on the floor. 
6. Ammo-  That's a personal item, I prefer to purchase myself.

Damn! This gift list thing may be harder than I thought.  I'll have to get back to you...

Yankees Win! Stop Hating!

Yankees win!  Yankees win!  Last night the New York Yankees captured  their 27th World Series and most  baseball fans aren't cheering. "They bought the trophy",  will be repeated a million times today as disgruntled fans complain to any poor sap who will listen.

Love' em, or hate' em, the Yankees front office is playing by the rules of baseball. They have the money, and Steinbrenner is willing to spend it.  Most of  us are just jealous the front office of our team won't follow suit.

I THINK YOU'RE THE FATHER OF ONE OF MY KIDS...

A guy goes to the supermarket and notices an attractive woman waving at him. She says hello.
He's rather taken aback because he can't place where he knows her from. So he says, "Do you know me?" to which she replies, "I think you're the father of one of my kids."
Now his mind travels back to the only time he has ever been unfaithful to his wife and says, "My God, are you the stripper from my bachelor party that I made love to on the pool table with all my buddies watching while your partner whipped my ass with wet celery???"
She looks into his eyes and says calmly...
"No, I'm your son's teacher."