With permission from Alan, a real life friend from long before social media and a colleague I greatly admire (all I’ve changed is where I highlighted his first and last sentences) —

I can’t help but think about how this past week would have been different if I hadn’t had the stroke in March.

I would have been able to eat at Taco night with my near daughter Wednesday evening to celebrate the end of the semester and her pending graduation.

I would have been more mobile at graduation.

On Sunday afternoon I could have joined Angela and family for the walk to rise funds against cancer and help carry Lexi.

Today I might have been on my way for a day (or two) trip back to Shawnee National Forest.

As it is I will imagine it.

— Mercy. So much packed in there, just like he’s always done, not just with words but with his life and ministry. He has so many lessons for you and me. Mercy.