Refraction and reflection

My thanks to Mary Hess for the framing of this article by David P. Gushee entitled "How to Create Cynics." Though Gushee says what many cynics (me included) have thought for some time, his movement from individual self-determination to authentic community discernment is refreshing and well-spoken.

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On a somewhat separate note, this weekend is the second in a row in which I won't be off witnessing / participating in a wedding. Though I'm happy to be staying in the state for a while, the last few weeks have been both amazingly heart-warming and surprising gut-wrenching. Three weddings in three states - the experiences from each could fill hundreds of pages and postings. And while I won't bore with the details, I will say that being a part of three such immense, intense, beautiful, symbol-driven social gatherings is overwhelming in the least.

All three were times to gather with good friends, reflect upon memories created and memories to come, and contemplate a future of geographic separation, increased technological connectivity and the vast unknown of variability, chance, opportunity and failure. We're talkin' serious dissertation material here.

Simply put, I'm awestruck with thankfulness for these people who have decided I'm worth keeping around.

The Ladies of Tallahassee














Gentlemen carousing as per usual

















Michigan wedding with raindrop accents