HELLO!

We packed a lot into our Advent service this morning. The Sunday School and Youth Group, with Bethe’s leadership, offered the drama “The Sparkle Box”, Kaitlin and Chelsea offered a beautiful Advent candle devotion, the choir sang an arresting anthem, and we brought our “Hidden Gifts” forward to the Outreach Team for disbursement to the various agencies that support persons in need. If you missed it, here is the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4MXhl4nKSr4

Later, my brothers Chris (b. 1970) and Scott (b. 1965) picked up their big brother (b. 1963) and took me to a Dartmouth café: https://selby.store/ We highly recommend it. I have been quite busy, so this was our first time together, all three of us, since our Dad died in November 2023. They have persisted and today was an opportunity to catch up. Chris lives in downtown Halifax, Scott lives in Hubley, very close to me. I discovered Scott’s retirement from teaching two years ago has led him to handyman work for locals with carpentry needs. I discovered Chris plans to retire in April 2026. My late father (b. 1939) retired at 54, my father and mother in laws retired at 55. At 62, I wonder why I am still working. The easy answer is, I love what I do. I usually leave the house at 630 am. and get home around 6 pm (Tue/Wed closer to 10 pm). I am not keen on meetings that last more than 90 minutes, and I do NOT enjoy driving, but otherwise, I love all aspects of my work. If I am not your “cup of tea”, not to worry, I plan to retire at 65, October 2028. As I say to those who mock me, “everything can go back to normal relatively soon”. But do know this, I enjoy being here, serving you, and working with Bethe.

My brothers sat on a chesterfield across from me at the café, they are both technologically gifted. I am a techno-peasant. I could see them giggling. When I got back to the office, I could see the image they had created, using AI. Perhaps I will send it to you, upon your birthday. Just remind me when. Our parents encouraged us to be our true selves, to share our hidden gifts. I hope you feel the permission and support to do likewise. It is a gift to have parents who support us in our differences.

At the UCW potluck I had some wonderful conversations. What a warm evening, filled with a genuine spirit of affection and joy. Advent has truly come among us and is preparing us to bear fruit. Peace, Kevin