Seeing New Light

It’s been interesting to go through a grieving process (at least that’s what I think it is) over the past couple of weeks with people. This week, the main experience for me has actually been anger. Every now and then that great question pops into my head, “Why did that stupid tornado have to come tear everything up and mess with our town and my schedule in particular!!??” I know it’s just a part of the process, but indescrimanately, the questions arise to provoke a quiet and rather unassuming (but nonetheless it’s there) anger. It didn’t help to see what happened to the folks at Greensburg, Kansas. If I saw what an F2 can do, I can’t imagine what F5 damage does to a person’s spirit. Although, we talked much about anger in seminary, and the ethical approaches therein, it’s a whole other ballgame to experience such situations. This is one of the first times I’ve consciously thought, “Well, sometimes Jesus got angry, too–and for the right reasons.”

Other people in the community are just plain fatigued, but doing well. I’m proud of Tulia. Seeing the smiles and the “back to business” attitude is refreshing. People who dog West Texans (and Panhandle people in particular) really should come out here and experience the pioneer spirit that drives us. You may just set up shop and never leave if you do. May is a month full of good activities, too-band banquets, graduations, Mother’s Day, RSVP banquet, etc. I’m hopeful for a time of rest and fellowship.