I’ll admit it. I’m beat. Super beat. Ready to collapse beat. The weather is doing a number to my sinuses and arthritis and, therefore, to my entire system.
In the midst of all of that, I was at five receptions this weekend, one after each Mass, so that the parishioners would have a chance to come by and say goodbye. I told the 6:30 and 8:00 a.m. Mass crowds this weekend that this would be my last time with those who regularly attend those Masses because next weekend I have the 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 Noon on Sunday. They applauded me for my years here. That tugged at the ol’ heartstrings.
Then, many people came to see me in the gym and personally say goodbye. There were many who told me a story or two about how and why I had meant so much to them through the years. Some had to do with dealing with personal loss, some with faith issues/concerns, some with engaging in new ministries and the like. Their stories really touched my heart.
You know, when we’re doing what we’re supposed to be doing, we often don’t know how we are impacting others. When they take the time to tell us, that’s very moving.
So, this afternoon and evening, I have been thinking about all those interactions last night and today and feeling immense gratitude to God for being with me and using me through these past twenty-three years here at the parish.
I certainly felt validated and in ways I have not felt before.
Thank you to those who came by and shared their stories. Thank you, as well, to those who planned and/or set up for the events. Everything went really well!