LP was a long time elder before he 'stepped down' a few years back - unexplained. His son ZP, is a fine young man of about 22 or 23 now I think. They have a carpet cleaning business. A few months ago LP and his lovely wife of 25 years, DP, divorced. I have no idea why.
DP was a very good friend of mine. I still consider her that, though likely it is unilateral nowadays. Every once in a while I get a one line reply to my email efforts to let her know I still love her [platonically of course]. But have not seen or spoken to any of the family since I left the 'truth', now about 4 years ago.
Our little town has attracted a new store, Dollar Tree. I love the place around the holidays. You can buy all sorts of items for always the same price - $1. I just like the concept. Most of it is junk really.
Anyway - today I browsing thru the store with a half basket full of Christmas items, when to my surprise, in walks LP and son ZP. I expected what I always expect when that happens - to be shunned. I wasn't. Granted it was not a happy hug an apostate event. But as they entered the store, and saw me down the aisle a couple dozen feet away, they both looked up, smiled broadly, and said a polite hello.
I must say - it kind of restored my faith that at least some witnesses are good and decent people yet. I made no effort to speak and force them into an uncomfortable situation. They walked one way and I the other. But it was a genuine, 'we used to be friends, and so I owe you that much' kind of greeting. I appreciated it.
In the back of my mind though, I am still wondering if someone in that family has not 'figured it out', and hence the divorce of the century for this congregation I suppose? I hope so. I hope they all do. I hope I can hug them all again someday.
It was good.
Jeff