Water as a rivulet, as a stream, a vapor or a gathered body of all streams inflowing to a contained area, is always moving. In so doing it clears, changes, is itself changed and then turns over or flows on and through. Being a force in motion keeps it fresh and useful, connecting to the elements around it, especially other water. I see this a being like the relationships we all share as we move towards another connection, and another.
Your passion for being in motion to seek joy in easy and difficult spaces is inspiring.
Michael, 4 years ago your life took you down an unexpected, undesired and unchosen path. You have walked this path bravely, curiously and with an openness of spirit. You have taken many of us with you on this journey and we have learned so much from you. The same week you started down that path and began sharing your journey, I came to a crossroad as well. I was confused and a bit tortured about which path to take. I made a choice and continued on life's journey, but am often nagged with regret about the choice. When I read your posts, I am reminded that choosing is a privilege. Life took you on a path which could be fraught with regret, but you chose to take it with your heart wide open and are giving us many blessings as a result. Thank you for reminding us that while we can't always choose our path, we do get to choose how we walk it. You are an inspiration. Gratefully, Tim
It was back over the hills, how many exits ago,? When the color of youth was painted all over the books and trees and night skies-
And there was learning, and music, and love. Those days of spring and fall. Those days of Kirksville and kids eyeing each other for both rivals and allies. Days of seekers and artists and poets and kids finding each other. Latch key kids cemented in a 70’s childhood, slowly learning we were not, in fact, alone.
We never ran side by side, but we were in the same tribe.
I’ve wrestled my way into a space where quantum mechanics and Christianity collide. I’m almost certain, and no one can ever be certain, that consciousness goes on. That we are, in fact, quite special in the universe. And no language can ever describe the truth. But I choose to use the word God. And I suspect, and hope, and hold faith in Jesus. That he was telling the truth. That an amazing love awaits us.
Einstein believed in the “block universe”. That at the moment of creation, the Big Bang, all of time was created in that instant too. And every moment of time is equal and just as real as the next. We only perceive the present, but the future and the past exist as real as this one we know. You are always being born, and the universe is always ending, as equally and fully as you now read these words.
So the blue skies and dusty books and loud music of Kirksville will always exist, and not as a memory. It’s just a few exits back.
-Charlie
Michael, I feel we are connected and am so touched by your honesty and openness. You are such a blessing and inspiration to us all! These four years have been a hugely challenging journey but we have been with you on it in so many different ways. Holding you and Jenny and the kids in daily prayer. Appreciating the healing power of the River in new ways. Thinking of you whenever I see someone on a bike. Appreciating the importance of music to bring us closer to our God. Thank you for being YOU! I hope you can rest in the assurance that we are all WITH YOU as God is with us because we are one in our God. Blessings, peace and love to you!
Michael, although we haven't met in person, you are in my nightly prayers. I know your wife Jenny, brothers-in-law Mark and Jonathan and have worked with your father-in-law David for many, many years. In my mind, I picture you healthy, riding bike for miles and miles. You are an inspiration to me and I love your posts.
In one of our talks along the way, we both shared that we kind of shutter within when we propose to ourselves to take a risk. We never felt on the inside like we were brave enough. Now... look at you -jumping into so many risks, rolling with the waters that send you outward to all of us. Thank you for life- sharing, deeply personal things and your words strike deep within me ( us) your friends. What occurs is that I carry your light, which originates from the Holy One, and that 'shutter' is left behind. Katherine
Michael
I remember your wedding to Jenny.
When you became important to her you became important to me.
When you walk to the river, I imagine your view, so thank you for sharing.
I like to think that we all are just walking each other home (rumi)
Love you
Swanny
You are the amazing cousin that somehow we never got to meet, even though you lived the closest. It took us long enough to get to meet you. Unfortunately, it was not until you had contracted cancer, but it has been a very valuable relationship none-the-less. I am so thrilled that you are interested in our family history and am so glad we have been able to share things that others have forgotten or did not know. You are also a marvelous inspiration, with all that you have been through and all that you are going through. It was also so wonderful to meet Jenny, and she is definitely a treasure! Congratulations on your 21 years together! We only got to meet Grace for a few moments, but were able to see more of Isaiah at the reunion. It was nice to have one in our part of the country for a change. . .the Twin Cities has always been a very valued place to my sister and me. When I lived there in the early 80's, I frequently went down to the river, as we also did in our Macalester days.
A poem that we all of us share with you....
Love
is the ultimate meaning
Of everything around us
It is not a mere sentiment
It is truth; it is the joy
that is at the root
of all creation
R. Tagore