Part 15 of the story of how Gary's life changed. You could call it From Beer to Eternity. There might be 20 or so of these that make up the whole story. Links to other parts are on the right.
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Right away I read the Bible and, uh, it's fascinating. That never happened. Before it was a bunch of guys in sandals -- why would anyone read this? It was like reading nuclear physics. But suddenly I'm interested in nuclear physics. I'm so interested I have to write down what I see -- oooh, look at that! It seems so important I just copy down what it says. I still have those notebooks. Over the first few weeks I read John and Romans and listen to J. Vernon McGee on the radio. I read My Utmost for His Highest but don't have a clue what he's saying. I can't wait until six months go by so I know something.
I stop using the f-word. Without trying. It just doesn't come out anymore. My interest in music changes. I've always loved rock and roll and I'm sort of a connoisseur but after four months when we move, I never unpack the old albums (these are the vinyl days). They're still in boxes over twenty years later.
I'm not bored. That had been a problem. My priorities and values and interests are slowly changing and merging into plenty to do.
When you move and leave a house for the last time, you walk out the front door and step away just like you always have. Everything feels familiar. But, even though it's the same as always, it's different because you're never going back. For awhile the house is still right there behind you. But with every footstep, it slowly moves farther away until it disappears.
The old house is still big behind me. But it's starting to get smaller.
Thank you so much for sharing your story here. It is filled with grace and truth. Strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow. Thank you.
Posted by: Deidra | Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 09:46 AM