Hello from Wisconsin,

It is a beautiful fall afternoon as I write this. I have done a number of things for the weekend including driving, studying, shopping, writing, and relaxing. I am continually amazed at how fast life seems to move through and beyond us. I remember my grandmother and my father saying how things would go faster. That is certainly true.

I am in the 5th year at Stout. That is almost unbelievable because it will be the longest I have lived in one place since high school. I am sort of an intinerate person. What is it that gives a person a "sense of place?" This is a question that has haunted me for most of my life. Is it from being adopted? Is it because I am so close to others in some ways and yet so distant in others??

There are times that I wish I had an immediate family, but most often I am pretty content to be alone. Is it because it is safer? Is it because it gives me control (at least so it seems) of my situation? So it is that I am plugging along. I am not sure where it will all lead, and perhaps I do not really need to know. I am quite sure that this is not exactly where I thought I would be at this point in my life, but then again, I do not know that I had any idea where I would be.

Since I was in California the last time, more things have come into focus. Fortunately, I have some people that sort of watch out for me. Between Criss, the manager of Starbucks on Main, Gretchen, one of the people I met this summer, even though she might not realize it, and a couple workers at the winery, I have learned a great deal. There are two instances or situations that I am learning to manage.

First is the winery and the work I was doing there. I am disappointed in anyone who feels they can use another person, and not because it was me, but rather in principle. There are many hard workers there, but if you are going to treat everyone with respect, you need to respect there time and schedules. To not do so can be interpreted as their time does not matter. That is what I learned in one instance.

The second instance is the issue about which I have intimated many things. I am not sure what all the pieces are yet, but something does not seem to be reasonable. While I think there are a number of nuances, I am not sure what is completely truthful. This is where I am fortunate enough to have the insight and input of others. I know that I have some options in my life, and it is because other have helped that I am where I am.

Some of my thoughts at this point:

No one owes you anything, you need to work for it; you need to earn it.

My father was certainly one of the most brilliant individuals I have ever known.

While I love teaching and working with my colleagues, America on the whole does not value education.

Sometimes it is much easier to be on your own and alone; it is also safer.

Just when you think you might have it figured out, be careful because the light at the end of the tunnel is probably another train.

I am blessed because I have real friends, a reasonable job and security in my life.

All-in-all, from that Lutheran and reformation background, all we have on which we can count is our faith . . .  and so in the graciousness and grace of the Almighty, I have a fortress.

Best to you and thanks for reading.

Michael