Today my friends who contribute weekly to our In Theory feature dropped by for a lunch I coordinated. As I mentioned in one of my earlier blogs, I really enjoy managing the In Theory feature, which quizzes local religious leaders about moral and ethical issues that often arise in current events, because it teaches me so much about religion.

Today’s lesson was more personal than theological. For instance, I had no idea Tom Thorkelson had 58 grandchildren. 58! Can you imagine keeping track of all those birthdays. Naturally, he has a Franklin Planner. I tried one of those years ago and it was an utter failure. When it comes to organization too much of it is left up to the filers in that bizarre office I call my brain — it’s definitely a Rain Man thing and when co-workers have to fill in for me I have to leave them detailed cheat sheets on my daily duties. I never write anything down to balance my checkbook either, but I’ve never bounced a check either. It’s all up here, man.

Later, Pastor Dwight Tomlinson told us of his two tours of duty in Vietnam and how after the second return home he found Jesus through his family. What a terrific Prodigal Son-type story. It was really inspiring.

Then, of course, there was the requisite teasing me about my insane affinity for the Cubs. Talk about an act of faith, it was pointed out. Indeed. A century without a World Series championship, but as I’m known to say: This is the year they win it all! (They’re in first place, by the way. Brady’s always bragging on his Angels, but I took particular delight in reminding him that the Angels were in second Monday). Tom reminisced about the 40s when the Cubs had a minor league team playing in the Southland. I never knew that.

Seems like I learn something fascinating every time I talk to anyone who contributes to In Theory. I hope you learn something from them, too, when you read their comments on Saturdays. We’re blessed to have them part of the Daily Pilot family.

Bookmark to: