It's been an eventful year. the most notable absence at this point is that of Donald. There's no easy way to quantify what it is like to have to deal with the untimely death of ANY loved one, but in this case, as in the case of my cousin Eric in 1991, has made for a continuing struggle in adjusting to this present reality.
it's been a good year, a sobering year, a hard year, a centering year, a tiring year. in that sense, it has been no different from our previous years.
We are ending the year as a larger family, with Jesus and Perla having come to us as foster children in the middle of October. While they are precious and dear (as well as troubled, in their own way) ... i can't help but be increasingly aware of the fact that we are witnessing their lives in a way that SHOULD belong to their mother, who desperately wants her children - all 8 - back with her. We are pledged to work with her in that effort.
Jerusalem is a precious, precious place. Flaws and all, the family of faith that meets there is and continues to be a source of grace as well as of challenges. They have taught me what is means to Pastor and BE a pastor. Their patience, love, and support are a continuing source of grace and strength for us.
The Latino Community on the Neck are, as always, a source of joy and sorrow, encouragement and ... opportunities ... there is so much to do ... weighing the needs against our stamina is always a balancing act.
This is a good place. Any way you look at it, taking the good with the bad, the hard with the easy, the blessing with the ... undiscovered blessing... :-)
Here's to a new year of opportunities, hopes, dreams, challenges, and expectations, all rolled together into one.
