On retreat we have a Q&A session when the students get to ask anything. At the end, my colleague asked us if there was anything supplementary that we would like to share. Looking out at a group of some 40 (or so) students in all their unique diversity and with all their special gifts and talents I said something like this, "Some of my best friends in life - and the people I most routinely converse with on Facebook or through other social networks are former students. I look forward to the fact that in the next decade - some of you will go on to church ministry, academic pursuits or various world regions - and you will become my best friends."
I note that because I'm at DUKE in Durham, N.C. as I send this post. Yesterday I had the opportunity to be with Megan Pardue and her husband Keith - and we spent a great full day together - eating pizza, going to the beach - sharing our lives together in ministry thoughts, family conversations, jokes, travel, and just "nothing." In fact, I joked with Keith throughout the day that he kept trying to make our conversation have a telos and we didn't need one! We had a GREAT day! See the pics here!! I could not be more proud of who Megan & Keith are - for their contributions, for their conversation, for the way they think about being Christian in vibrant and meaningful ways!
Though I was not with him yesterday or today - as he's out of town - I am right now co-writing a paper with another former student - who is also at DUKE, Logan Kruck. He and I will present our paper together in the Spring at the Wesleyan Theological Society meeting. What a thrill to be working in harmony and synchronicity with former students who have competence and skill!
And today, I'll worship with a friend from my shared and collaborative work through Duke's Faith and Leadership Program - Herbert Reynolds Davis. Then, I'll share coffee with a mentor in my own life - my former teacher - W. Stephen Gunter. He taught me many things when I served as his Graduate Assistant many years ago - and I continue to learn from him as he, many years ago - transitioned from being "just my teacher" to becoming *also* my friend. And, he remains someone I learn from and glean from.
And, I anticipate wrapping up the day with dinner or dessert with Amber Gingerich Crispell - who was a "child" when I was a Children's Pastor in Colorado Springs. She and her family - and her extended family - were key members - witnesses and workers! - in the church where I served. Amber and her husband, who I have yet to meet, Dave - are finishing their program of study here at DUKE where he will complete his M.Div this academic year. Amber's cousin, Kevin, also a former "child" when I was Children's Pastor in Colorado Springs - was a student at SNU - and lived with us off and on in between and before and after semesters on occasion.
My life is filled with key relationships of meaning - that give me vitality, hope - from former students - and from my own former student days!
What a blessing to see the hope and possibility of former students who become future friends - as meaningful relationships are developed, and shared friendship is extended in open and hospitable ways!
And, what an absolute thrill to be a participant with others - these particular and specific others - as we attempt to do our best - together - to reflect and embody the life of God's Kingdom!
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