To Chicago With Love, a Letter

Dear Chicago. Sometimes, it amazes me how a memory will flash across our minds, and that memory will spark a prayer, a tear, or even a longing to see someone of long ago. Anyway, that's what happened to me, again last night, as I was driving alone on an errand. For a few moments that came suddenly and left with equal brevity, I was taken back some 50 plus years and 2000 miles to Chicago where six years of my life were given and dedicated to shinning some light on many of the people of the night; and to drug addicts, alcoholics, and street gangs. Success stories as well as failed ventures filled my heart and sparked a prayer. The stories I experienced are not statistical numbers but names and hearts of real men and women, boys and girls. I value those years, treasuring them like none other. Chicago, you became the love of my life, and I gave you my best, my all. What we do with our lives is like seed planted in a garden. We have very little control over the condition and dictates of the soil, but every seed we plant has value and purpose. In time, the seeds will germinate and bring forth life. I have every reason to believe that the six years I spent planting seeds in Chicago 50 plus years ago were not in vain. I get the feeling and the sense that the memories that occasionally flash across the veins of our hearts are reminders that the seeds are alive and well, and bringing forth good fruit. Oh Chicago, as I recall what I was blessed to give to you, I hasten to add that you gave me so much more. You gave me a heart and a love for people that I never possessed until I met you in the late 60s. You gave me an education, a mission, a ministry, and great models of dedicated people and organizations. Forty-eight years ago, you gave me a bride so beautiful and kind that has stood the test of 'both me' and time. I have often ignored what some others think of you and concluded, 'they don't know you like I do'. To you, beloved city by the lake, this December, God sent me a memory that has sparked a prayer. May your Mayor and government officials lead well. May your people be cared for and secure. May heaven smile on you and give you the merriest of all Christmases. With love, A friend in California. 120320FBPSCtest, Bookshop, Kai Michael Neumann