Retirements

This year, four esteemed Roberts Wesleyan faculty will retire. I have attend three of the four events so far, each one filled to overflowing with testimonials by those who have labored beside them for decades as well as for a mere semester.

Kind words, lists of accomplishments, appreciative hugs, tears, and general bittersweet celebration of the dedication of people who have poured their lives into the formation of students, into the creation of a proper environment for young lives to be nurtured and mentored and loved.

Rare enough for there to be one person so well regarded by colleagues and students alike, but four! In one place! Amazing. And thought provoking. In this day and age, unique to find someone who has remained for so long in one place and did not end up disgruntled or disrespected.

Even more amazing to hear of the plans for moving into missions work, for traveling to less fortunate corners of the world to continue pouring out their labors to those who need a hand, a bit of support to get on their feet. These people are not retiring! They are changing one career for another. There is no slowing down, only a change of venue.

I am touched by their legacy. Can we who remain live up to their standards, keep the old fashioned ethics going in a world spinning faster than ever? Can we survive as many decades and still be standing much less smiling - or entering into phase 2?

I am not sure I can do that. But I am encouraged that in this environment, perhaps it might be possible to make a difference, to build something solid and enduring and of good quality. Providing the economy doesn't interfere!