I may have made a mistake in being so public with my congregation with regard to my love for the film "The Big Lebowski". One 80 year old parishioner reported that in preparation for my arrival she watched the film. After getting past the frequent f-bombs she noted that it was funny, and brought matters around to a place of redemption. So my revelation has made some connection with her, and with others. It was at a previous parish that someone gave me the moniker "Father Dude" due to my appreciation of the film, my physical likeness, and I would like to think because of my way of abiding.
When asked by the St. James search committee I told them that my strengths were preaching, teaching, and abiding. I believe that to be true. I am able to be present with people in matters traumatic, joyful, and mundane. Not knowing how to do something doesn't really bother me. I can abide.
Of late, I haven't felt very abiding. I suppose that the busyness of moving, and adjusting to a new job has me frazzled. My minds wanders all over the place. I feel the need to take care of matters that just aren't my business. As I unpack my books I realize that I haven't read many of them, and think that I must read them so that I can be an expert on whatever their subject. I am slipping away from my dudeness.
Perhaps the worst way to focus is to keeping telling yourself to focus. Taking a step back, and focusing on the issue at hand recalls the dudeness. Who should be held accountable for peeing on my rug? One thing at a time.
As I write this I can see out of my window that it is a beautiful day. There is no need to stay in the study. Today I am called to abide outside. Just thinking about it stirs my inner dude.
