October 15-16, 2004
Just a quick note of appreciation for your tender ministry during the Stillmeadow retreat. After I returned home on Sunday night, my family and I had a special discussion that will be a "marker" for each of us. We were able to talk about pain that we had hidden, and how this unconcealed pain may be linked to issues we struggle with today. Because of your ministry, I was able to offer hope to my 13-year-old daughter [my princess] who is struggling with separation anxiety. Please understand; I was not pretending to be a professional counselor. However, I learned this weekend that I must be real; I can no longer afford to be a pretend father. Our discussion was not easy, [actually it was extremely hard - and we still have work to do] but through our tears we reached a whole new level of healing in our relationship.

I so appreciate the time and the ministry you brought to our group of men. For me the weekend was a profound experience in many ways...the most meaningful being the realization that I am in a place and with a group of men where I truly belong--something that I have never felt. It seems that every time I or my wife turn around, God is bringing us a message of forgiveness...obviously this is a very important commitment in His eyes. I can see that God is bringing me to a new place and a new walk...I'll keep you apprised as to where He leads. I know from experience the excitement and the awe that comes when we see our obedience to good bear fruit in another's life.