Change in the Weather, Sea, and me?

What can I say about cold, rain and gloom after many perfect sunny days?

I know why Starbuck's was founded in Seattle. It doesn't rain more inches there than many other cities (including Chicago). It just rains all the time. I had an espresso and my outlook improved. (I use Outlook, not Outlook Espresso). For a Seattle apologetic, see http://www.komotv.com/weather/faq/seattle_rain.asp.

I plan soon to set up a blog for my church. Am I churchy? Well, after nearly 23 years working at the same church, I suppose something might rub off. But, if I am not allowed to doubt, question, or use my reason, I kick and scream. The disciple Thomas would feel at home here as I do. Just as, in my opinion, good parenting enhances natural differences between siblings, you will find people with contrasting views at Urbana Grace United Methodist Church, all bound by love. Love: the subject of the greatest commandment! Oh, my God, I'm preaching!

My father was a preacher, as I said. But, in some ways, he planted the seeds of my rebelliousness. He would have no use for today's ultra-conservative religious right. He had no use in his lifetime for people he called "fundamentalists". When, on his deathbed, he was invited to a march on Washington, he brightened up and asked, "When do we start?!" Sadly, I wasn't there to hear his last words, but the woman who officiated at his memorial service related the anecdote at my father's memorial service. "Dad," I used to say, "you are a militant pacifist!"

When he was in his early eighties, I asked my father if his advanced age meant he was more ready to face death. "Don't you believe it!" he said, eyes flashing. But I could only wish to die a good death as was related concerning my father's last moments.

I always end up writing more when I think I have nothing to say. I guess that's what's good about blogs, at least for the writer...