Over the past few months, I’ve been up, and I’ve been down. I can feel pretty good one day and then feel like I ‘crash’ in the evening or afternoon.

As I continued to decline, it became harder and harder to work around the ups and downs. Last week, our Conference Superintendent pointed me toward medical leave.

At first, I wasn’t interested. I assumed I might start feeling better and there would be more ups than downs. As I learned more about my tumor and that it might be causing my symptoms (especially hypokalemia), I finally realized I might not get better but instead, continue to get worse.

On Friday, I texted my CS and said I was interested in medical leave.

Today, Monday, I met with the medical review committee, which approved my medical leave. Not having the concern, worry, or stress of feeling like I can’t do what I need to do pastorally is a weight lifted off my shoulders.

I don’t know how much that stress was making me worse, but I’m sure it wasn’t making me better. Now I can focus on my health, keeping up with doctors, and preparing for my surgery by resting my body, mind, emotions, and spirit.

I view this as a gift and privilege, and I am extremely grateful for the time to address my health.

On Sunday, I announced, via video, that I would be taking some time off. At that point, I had not been approved for medical leave. I don’t know what this journey will be, how I will feel, or even how I will stay connected with the beautiful congregation at St. Paul. I know their prayers, concerns, and love will be healing.

Feel free to leave comments. I plan on responding to them as I’m able.

I include the video for those who might not have been at church or are not part of St. Paul.