This is the sixteenth in a series written by Malcolm Marler and Mary Bea Sullivan, husband and wife, about their journey as Mary, an author, prepares to go to Virginia Theological Seminary. Malcolm is a director of pastoral care at a hospital in Alabama.
“She Said.” By Mary Bea
Anyone who has ridden a bicycle uphill knows the climb is made easier by switching into a lower gear. Timing, especially on steep inclines, is critical. According to bicycletutor.com “It’s very important not to shift under pressure, as this will cause shift problems and damage your drivetrain.”
I think I have waited a bit too long to shift into a lower gear. I have seen this hill coming for a long time. Depending on how you look at it, some would say I have been anticipating the move to seminary for over a decade. Even if we only count back to March, the month when I decided where to attend school, I have had a good five months to prepare for the upcoming move and next Wednesday’s classes.
But I have been pedaling along as if I were riding through the flat farmlands of Ohio, risking damage to my “drivetrain.” I don’t see this tardy transition preparation as a lack of enthusiasm for that which awaits; but rather a testimony to the love for that which I will leave.
Cheeks have been kissed, hugs savored, and tears slipped away now and then. Borrowed books have been returned, new, already beloved ones beckon. Last Sunday the family and I were formally blessed by a congregation that has blessed us since we first wandered into Grace Church six years ago. And yet in my “knowing” I have not “known” to shift gears yet. This gentle flat land is so familiar and in some ways, easy.
Even though I am excited about this new adventure, perhaps my hesitation is due to a healthy dose of respect for the difficulty on the road ahead. Whatever the reason, it is time to shift into a lower gear, rely on training from former “rides” and pedal. I know from past hikes, runs, and rides, the biggest climbs are the most beautiful and gratifying at the summit. And so I will lift my eyes toward the hills…
Psalm 121
I lift up my eyes to the hills – where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.
He will not let your foot slip-
He who watches over you will not slumber;
indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.
The Lord watches over you-the Lord is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night.
The Lord will keep you from all harm-He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.
May the Lord watch over you and yours. I will continue to write as frequently as I am able in my new world. I am grateful to you, my readers who have encouraged, supported, and given me strength for the road and I will carry you in my heart. Namaste
Mary, I feel such a thrill for you, as you begin this phase of your journey. I know you are up to the challenge and will find amazing experiences on the way up this climb. You have many loving hearts cheering you on. I can’t wait to read your postcards from along the way. Have a great ride!
Gayle
I think it’s just your way, Mary, to stay in the moment until last minute and then to shift into whatever comes next.
As my dear friend Susie’s mom always said: “Do what’s in front of you.”
You do and you will.
Best of luck and keep in touch.
Much love.
Carol
You can count on me to be following the Tour de Seminary and rooting for “Team MB” and waiting on the other side of the mt.cheering, “great job! You did it!” And I can hardly wait to sit in the front row and be inspired by your sermons and kneel at the altar receiving communion which Rev. Mary Bea has consecrated. Blessings. . Blessed.
Bless. .
Dear Mary, Godspeed as you begin your new “adventure.” Know that your “Grace friends” will be the “wind beneath your wings.” We, Jimmy and I, have been blessed knowing and loving you, Malcolm, Brendan, and KiKi. You may be geographically far, but you are “heart” close. Drop us a line when you have a breather.
Much love and prayers, Margaret and Jimmy
sniffle. teardrop. blink. smile. give thanks.
What Annette said! (and so beautifully!) You are in my prayers!
Thank you all very much! I cannot tell you how uplifting it is to read your beautiful messages as I begin to pile things in the guest room to load in the car. I will also load your good wishes and prayers. This makes the task easier. May your love flow through me on to others.
Dear Mary,
I’m so proud of you, and happy for you! You’ve followed your heart and honored your gifts since last we spoke, and have done some wonderful things… Now there’s a new chapter in your book of life waiting for you; I look forward to reading about what you find over that hill!
Blessings and love,
Ellen
Godspeed! May you love Virginia, and may they love you! Remember the rednecks back in Alabama and know that we remember and love you and look forward to your visits!
I loved your words today.
I am so excited for you as you begin seminary.
How great that we have computers and emails these days so we can stay in touch.
Much love, Caroline
Godspeed, dear one. Your circle(s) of love are ever widening. Va. awaits your coming and many there will be blest by your presence as we have and continue to be here.
Much love, Betty
You will be in my prayers and I will be claiming for you that you will feel God’s lifting you up daily!
Beloved Mary Bea, this is such a moment! You are headed for new bloom and I will be watching with so much joy! I wish I could have had a real hug, but you know my arms are always around you. I, too, am so glad for technology that can keep us in touch. Steady on the bike, girl and safe arrival!
All love, Elizabeth
Happy Birthday Mary! I know the next year will have you birth new joys and challenges that you can intertwine with all your amazing life experiences, perspective, and reflections. Keep pedaling.
Love, Kelly
So, it has begun?! I am so happy for and jealous of you!!! Oh, to be beginning that wondrous journey again. I can’t wait to hear all about it. You will be blessed and you will be a blessing. Soak up every amazing minute of it! I know that not one thing will be wasted on you. Thanks for all you’ve done to help me along on the journey since seminary. I am a better woman and pastor for it!
Mary,
I’m thinking about you and the joys that you will see along this road and carry with you back to your family and friends. Enjoy each moment, even the difficult ones – they may help you grow! I look forward to hearing your stories. God bless and much love – Debi