Not leaving people

Paul, a gentleman that attends our church, is a highly functioning developmentally disabled older adult. He's a great guy. He lives on his own, washes dishes at one of the MSU cafeterias and can't clap in rhythm to save his life.

He sought me out immediately after yesterday's announcement at South Lansing Christian Church. Usually Paul buttonholes me before church. We chat about the Spartans, his job, where he's going on vacation, that sort of thing. For him to find me after church is unusual, and I could tell by the seriousness of his tone and his expression that the announcement was difficult for him.

"I'm really going to miss you guys, Frank," he said.

"What do you mean, Paul?"

"Since we're not going to have church anymore."

Heart breaking I said, "Paul, we're still gonna have church! I don't know if it will be here or somewhere else, but wherever it is, you're going to be with us. If I have to, I'll come and pick you up, but you're going to have your seat on the front row!"

He smiled and said, "That's good," and went on his way.

Wonder how many other people are wondering today if they're going to be left behind.