Note: When I first started writing these letters, I made up my mind that the last two were going to Jon, Tami, and Sam Gappa and my wife Tisha. Up to this point, all of the letters that I’ve written have been directed to family, but there are a few friends that I want to sandwich in between.
To provide a little background, Clay and I grew up together. I have known him since 3rd grade. We went our separate ways during our college years, but we reunited at my wedding. A year later, we were attending Southwest together. The two of us are extremely close. Our families, too, are very close. He and Joanna have three wonderful children. Clay is a minister in Hobbs, NM.
Dear Question,
Did you ever suspect that your life would turn out the way it has? I didn’t expect mine would. Given what our majors were in college, and for me, the direction my life was heading then, I am miles apart from where I thought I would be.
While our lives are clearly distinctive one from the other, they also bare many similarities. I’m really amazed after thinking about it. We both have
1. Wives with some fire underneath them
2. 2 girls, 1 boy
3. The same profession
4. Irreparable golf swings
I could list a whole lot more, but these suffice to prove my point. I am really not surprised that two of us have so much that is intertwined and similar.
Speaking for myself, I know that I wouldn’t be where I am today were it not for a few very special friends. Of those special friends, you are at the top.
For whatever reason, you get me. You understand me. I know a lot of people don’t and that frustrates them. But you do, and I know on more than one occasion you’ve sought to clarify the misconceptions that people have of me. To me, that’s one of the marks of a real friend.
You’ve been a tremendous sounding board for me. I am persuaded that a number of people we’ve both held in high esteem have struggled because they had no one that they felt they could talk to without there being repercussions. I have feared being in a similar situation. Thank you for always giving me your ear!
I also appreciate that you’ve never been afraid to let me know your genuine thoughts, particularly, when you thought I might be off base. Moreover, you know how to do it! That, in and of itself, makes for a compelling case that you are in the right line of work. Too many seem clueless about how to “reprove.” At least, as it pertains to me, you know how to go about it.
Clay, finally I want to thank you for your “no strings attached” friendship. As a kid, I used to attach conditions to friendships. You could be my friend if… I know that I am not the only person who’s recognized that youthful tendency. I’ve learned, though, that some never grow out of it. I am thankful that I have, but I am more appreciative of the fact that you seem immune to the notion.
I know God is working mightily through you and your family. The video of Caleb you posted on Facebook from LTC affirms this. The Jefferson St. church in Hobbs, NM is fortunate to have you. I, for one, am fortunate to have you and yours in my life. May God continue to bless you in his service.
Goof
