Well it’s a grey Wednesday. I’ve had coffee, but allergies are making it more hard to focus than normal. I guess it’s time for some random thoughts. It’s the allergy edition!

1. People will sometimes convey to me “what a help you’ve been.” Folks, most times I just stand in the midst of a crisis feeling useless.
2. I don’t enjoy most social media. To me the feed is depressing because I’m not as adventurous or outgoing as other folks, aggravating because of ignorant things people share, or hurtful because folks love attacking clergy (which is infuriating because the clergy folks are actually attacking are making my life miserable). Social media sucks.
3. I still need players for Ecclesicon: Day of Adventure.
4. When I was 30 having other pastors look at me like I had two heads was funny. At 51 I’m weary of it and just avoid gatherings if possible. I’m tired of leaving them depressed.
5. Shepherding folks doesn’t mean putting a positive spin on everything. It’s a call to have empathy and helping folks see that a path forward is possible.
6. I can’t watch the Eagles’ defense any more. It hurts.
7. Not getting the sabbatical grant hurt more than it should. I already feel like my ideas have no place in the wider church, which makes me feel spiritually homeless, not getting the grant reinforced those fears.
8. We all want to matter. Choose to matter in a way that loves others, even if you often want to smack people upside the head.
9. I’ve got some great friends, and it makes such a difference.
10. I was at the grand opening for a new game store the other day and someone recognized me from YouTube. I have to admit, that felt great.