(Michael) and the Balrog Days +3 to +4

For Lord of the Rings fans, you will remember when the fellowship flees from the Balrog (big ass majorly evil monster) and Gandalf, the leader, ends up locked in prolonged mortal combat with the dreaded monster.  I may well be going through the Balrog phase at present--nausea, fatigue, even a bit of depression (been reading of depressive experiences of the likes of Lincoln and FDR so I push through with a certain amount of 'surrounded by witnesses' hubris), looking forward to achieving "Gandalf the White" status at the outcome.

Becky's here now which is a great help on many levels.  One reflects on marriage at a time like this:

• 'in sickness and in health' (from the traditional wedding vows)
• 'this is why they make you take vows' (quote from vulnerable scene in 'West Wing')

Assuming I get through this relative unscathed, better than I went into it, it will be as a result of the efforts of many, not least Becky.

Had some conversations with families here who are having a great deal more challenge than I.  Talking and praying with them is good therapy for us both.

I continue to be inspired by the quality with which the MCT team is pushing on with their responsibilities (and some not inconsiderable ad hoc challenges) as I play my backup role here.

Excited about getting into some planning on some initiatives, I'm hoping to catalyze in the the next few weeks, as the Balrog thing allows:

• Legacy Impact Giving Event & John McGill Concert -- Opportunity for Mountain Community to Give posthumously through their life insurance and other vehicles to causes they care about.  June 9.
• Regional Youth Foundation -- collaborative fund raising with likeminded child-serving org.  Details to follow.                                                                                                                       
• CCX Community Groups Experiments (see attached for latest brochure).