THANK YOU ... (Under the Circumstances)

THANK YOU ... (UNDER THE CIRCUMSTANCES)


Type: Letter
Words: 721

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A small town minister is accused of the unthinkable. As the investigation continues, support from the congregation is not unanimous.(Handwritten)


Hello Reverend:

Mysterious ways! Unmistakable proof prayers are answered according to a larger agenda.

I refer to your idea of a dream retreat for clergy. Forget about the the view. Granted, it's not quite the panoramic mountain vista. Hey! Does that glossy Colorado brochure still line your pocket? That's all window-dressing anyway. The ultimate intent is to find a little solitude isn't it? Count your blessings.

Just a quick update and a note of thanks.

I can hardly believe it myself, but the children now look forward to Sunday. I'm so proud. Only a month ago it took two hours of cajoling. Once mobilized, bribery with treats was the only way to negotiate an hour of hand-sitting.

Not any more! Mornings are now filled with singing, meditation, affirmation, mutual enlightenment from the week's research. If we feel the sudden urge to dance, we dance!

What brought this all on? you ask.

It all stems from your promise. Remember? If it is the last thing I do, I will awaken the spirits of your three little atheists.

I appreciate it was said tongue-in-cheek. Even so, the words angered me. Today, I write to thank you. You challenged our hearts. Now, you would hardly recognize them. They are letting go of possessions (especially Gameboy). They are taking responsibility for their actions. They are engaged in everything they do and are gradually becoming sensitive to the less fortunate and their suffering.

Naively, we set course for a higher state of consciousness ~ to make karma ~ to search for harmony ~ to connect with each other ~ to see life for what it truly is. Sunday has become Family Adventure Day to awaken our spirits.

I can just imagine your face. Dancing? Karma in my church!

Relax. Not in your church. We stopped attending weeks ago.

The interim speaker presented a refreshing perspective ... for some. For others, my family included, your sudden absence raised too many questions. For half the flock, answers were simply found by wandering down the street to a neighbouring church. For my children, the questions were much deeper. Why this religion over others? The church down the street is convenient. Is faith about convenience? Does it have to be so torturous? What is a soul? etc., etc.

If anyone can, you understand I'm no expert. I had to impress on them I too was looking for answers. I was not about to lead, but rather walk alongside them in the search. (Sound familiar?) What choice did I have. I was at wit's end; a professional and single mother barely holding the family together. Whatever challenges the week bore, there was always the assurance of safe footing Sunday mornings to regroup.

In Mark 6:31, Jesus said to the apostles, Come away to a quiet place all by yourselves and rest a while. Doubtful this is what he intended.

In the meantime, as the truth unfolds, and you make use of this long awaited solitude for prayer, penance and reflection on eternal destiny, please find a moment to contemplate the following:

~ When physicians prove they are only human, the resources of the Internet empower to take more responsibility for one's own health.

~ When children's best interests become secondary in the education system, one can join the Parent Teacher Association.

~ When financial advisers choose mutual funds based on commissions rather than performance, there are self-managed investment accounts.

~ When drinking water is threatened by building permits on top of the aquifers granted by the municipal zoning department, one can become an environmental activist.

Society trusts in its experts. Life is too complex for the average citizen to become proficient at every decision to be made. However, along with that trust comes an implied fiduciary duty. When that is violated, sometimes the only choice is to get personally involved.

Betrayals are a part of life, but when it's your spiritual leader . . . ?

Thank you for the awakening.


Peace be with you.