Travelogue: Erie – Day One

November 14, 2024, my first day at the Lake Erie Gala. But first, there was real life to deal with. I have been the member of two wonderful congregations, as Kandi. One was a Methodist church, which fell apart upon the retirement of quite an inspirational preacher. Many of us migrated to a different church, Presbyterian, also lead by an amazing human being, whom I wrote about recently, also having retired.

I also mentioned that I was recently invited to attended a men’s group (not as Kandi, but they all know she is me) afternoon lunch. Me, a few other Caucasian gentlemen, a few African American gentlemen. Two of them were well into their nineties. Ed was 97. He was at both churches and also at that luncheon. He was simply the kindest human being I may have ever met. Always smiling, always at church, vibrant to the end. Ed recently passed away and this day was his memorial service. In that church were great friends who did not move over from the first church, so it was reunion time. The hugs, the smiles, the joy of celebrating Ed’s life was what life is, was, and always should be. I was given an enormous gift from the Lord, this day, that place, those people. And for that, I am forever grateful.

I kept it simple, kept it respectful in terms of my outfit. The day was cold with a steady rain, so I wore the black overcoat the entire time. After the service, I drove to Erie and saw so many friends. My friend Debbie was kind enough to offer lodging to me to allow me to justify (in my own head) the expense of the trip. Saw old friends, made new ones, had dinner with many, and then the evening cocktails and more story swapping. I enjoy this, maybe in smaller doses, but I do enjoy it. I wore the same outfit all day, which made me stand out with my simplicity in presentation in this particular crowd.

The parallels between both events were interesting. One, love and acceptance. The other, love and acceptance. Completely different circumstances, could not be more different and yet more alike.

Two more days.

To those of you that commented yesterday, I appreciate and love you all! One thing I know, one thing that was made abundantly clear to me in Erie and now yesterday, this place matters! I got a few “you are famous” comments in Erie and while my bloated ego would like to believe that, the truth of the matter is I was know by tens of ladies in Erie. While I still value that, “famous” is stretching it a bit…