If you look to the right of this blog post, you will notice two names listed under "About the Author". One is mine (which I just updated) and the other is the person who set this blog up for me so that I could share my thoughts. But he is so much more to me than just someone that assists me in my technologically challenged state. He is someone who has been by my side in ministry for many years and I wanted to pen some thoughts here. In light of recent events and opportunities that will send him to the other side of the nation, I would like to either introduce you to him or share my affection for Ben Wyrosdick (the "Wy" is silent). 14 years ago, I met a fairly typical teenager (except for the glaring oddity of fancying sugar gliders). From that night until now I have watched him grow to become one of the most amazing men I have ever known. He is my co-laborer. He is my teacher. He is my friend. The wisdom he effortlessly and consistently displays comes from a heart that is passionate for his Savior and I love to be around when "out of the abundance of that heart, the mouth speaks". I had a birds eye view when he exchanged vows with our "little girl" Sara Nan. I was the beneficiary when he learned to play the bass and joined our praise band. I had the teary-eyed privilege of speaking at his elder ordination service. And I am so grateful for the time we have had to walk this journey together to plant a church; to pray for the saints and to make the name of Jesus famous among the nations. Ben, I will miss you, Sara, Isaac and Ava Grace. Whether your family's time on the other coast is weeks, months or years, know that there is a church in Birmingham filled with people who have been changed because you were here. I love you.