Thursday, (4/13)'s men's evening featuring Mr. Nate Larkin was a wonderful experience. So many old friends, gathered together to celebrate / recognize Nate's contribution to recovery. (There were a number of men there who I remembered their face, but...)
-------------------------
Mr. Nate Larkin succinctly told his story, and as usual, he had no issues with stating the obvious (without making a single joke regarding) relative to who God created him to be. This effectively demonstrates humility, and immediately disarmed the crowd.
He quickly began describing "personas" or created images ("Saint, Mate, Career-Nate") of himself relative to circumstances his diminutive / near-sighted authentic self found himself within.
There were some profound statements made regarding these personas in comparison to his real self. I wish I could remember them.
Nate, of course, talked explicitly about his powerfully stifling relationship to lust, whether in the form of print / Internet porn or illicit, adulterous relations and how it further fueled his drive to present / establish / re-invent these numerous personas. Whilst doing so, he gave the audience an idea as to how much of his time / energy spent as a pastor, husband, father was siphoned off due to this.
He went on to describe D-day for himself in grisly detail (between he and his sweet wife) prior to highlighting the brief helpfulness brought forth due to a unplanned relocation (FL to TN in order to be close to grandkids / children).
From there, his narrative shifted towards seeking out / finding a recovery methodology that worked for him (all well before writing Samson and the Pirate Monks / launching the Samson Society).
Nate concluded by talking briefly about his passion: Samson Society's growth, but not at all in line with touting his involvement. Instead, his focus was / is always celebrating the continued momentum relative to Samson connections (face-to-face & virtual) / slow and meaningful restorations.
-------------------------
From there, a virtual Samson Society meeting facilitator spoke briefly along with a local men's ministry guy. Both testimonies were powerfully heartfelt and sincere, serving as a fantastic pivot.
A Samson Society board member then segued by asking the audience for contributions. This was awkward but no doubt necessary. His determined effort was appreciated.
A roundtable discussion was executed before closing out the evening. There were 3-4 questions asked. One of the roundtable participants talked passionately about the church needing to raise up emotionally intelligent men - in line with what Jesus modeled (particularly through its preaching). I'm still chewing on that one. I think it's a worthwhile concept. I'd love to hear more about this and what it might actually look like.
As a sidenote, I caught a ride home with two Samson guys (due to my car having a flat tire). Part of the dialogue therein had to do with this notion of the church rearing emotionally intelligent men. Obviously, that resonated with a cross section.
No comments:
Post a Comment