What I learned

What I learned at my first residency, most of which wasn’t in the syllabus: You can be 72 (almost 73) and very cool. Haddon had incredible character and grace. He understands the times and what’s needed to communicate today. If you’re looking for someone who’s matured well, Haddon’s the guy. Throw yourself in a room full of individuals, and you’ll find that you like almost everyone after a while. Even people who disagree with you on almost every conceivable point. Twenty-five people thinking together is a lot better than one person thinking alone. You can be direct and still be kind. If you’re too arrogant to do things that aren’t cool, or to cheer on those who aren’t cool, you’re too arrogant. I am sometimes very intellectually lazy. A kick in the pants can solve this problem. The problem in a lot of churches isn’t that preaching takes place. The problem is what passes for preaching, and, many times, the attitude of a preacher. I like learning environments. Even Anglicans are good guys. (That one’s for you, Brent.)