i don't know what to call this

So, I have resigned as Campus Minister at Campbell. On January 1, 2007, there will be a new way to describe Terry-Michael Newell, Jr. I am not sure what that description looks like. We’re not moving. We’re not selling our house (yet). However, I am probably selling my truck to get something a little older and less expensive and hopefully better on gas and for the environment. My wife is happy. My daughters are happy. And, our cat keeps drinking from the fish bowl (so I guess he’s happy too.)

I was not fired. I was not asked to resign. I am not disgruntled and I am not going to shoot anyone. I love being a Campus Minister. I love college students. I love Campbell. I love coffee. And, I love drinking coffee with college students at Campbell while being the Campus Minister.

This decision comes after a long period of thinking, praying, and writing in my journal. It’s a decision I feel very comfortable with even though there’s a lot that’s unknown in the not-so-distant future. The plans I have right now are these:

---enroll in a couple of counseling classes at Campbell
---complete a unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) in the winter/spring
---write a book about why 36 year-old guys shouldn’t quit a good job
---write another book about the risks of following God’s calling
---work part-time wherever I can to make sure our bills are paid (so, come on down to Lowes or Home Depot or Jiffy Lube and let’s chat about nails or screws or home improvement ideas or whether you’d like the full-package that includes your chassis lubed.)

All kidding aside, this is a drastic change. This is an emotional roller coaster (which makes it easier for me to sit in front of this computer and cry than to cry in front of each of you.) The last 10 years of serving in this role have taught me that my gifts and strengths as a person are centered in caring and counseling. I’m just wired that way. And my energy flows rapidly when helping others connect to a loving and relational God during critical times of life. It also runs rampant when someone simply needs to clarify what God is or is not saying about their own vocation. I love sitting with folks and trying to tame the unbridled spirit. I love being guided by the Spirit to stand with those who have been oppressed, mocked, beaten, depressed, suicidal, abused, or demoralized. I may not always have the answer, but I’m sure I have some questions that can help begin the journey of self-discovery.

I am not so clear about my own journey that I can describe it here for the entire world to see. But, I am sure that God is continually faithful to sustain me, whether I’m wandering through the wilderness or wrestling at the River of Jabbok. After the journey, I may be tired or I may be limping or I may be both. Either way, I am going with God.

I hope I get to see you along the way.