Feeling like Mario...

I realized today on my drive in to the office, that Mario - the little red outfitted plumber on all the Nintendo games - and I are alot alike. No, I am not Italian, and no, I am not very handy with a wrench - but I do feel that we are in the midst of a similar game. Just like Mario, I am ever running, always trying to get through the obstacles of the day (or week or year). Sometimes, I make the right choice, and feel big and can run fast and seem to blow through the pitfalls. Sometimes, I am on fire - and then nothing can stop me. And sometimes, I am just a little guy, hardly visible on the screen, and just trying to get by. Today is a big Mario kind of day! After being affirmed and confirmed by the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry yesterday, I have finally arrived at the flag. What a journey this has been! Three years of residency, 2 years of being certified, 3 years of seminary, 8 years in process, 16 years since my initial calling into ministry, and 30 years of being in the midst of God's love. Go Melody - Go Mario! I cannot wait to see what the next level is going to look like!