“The month of August had turned into a griddle where the days just lay there and sizzled.” ― Sue Monk Kidd

I’ve just returned from a trip across Texas to see my family. Typically, I don’t enjoy traveling. Getting to be with my children and grandchildren is always worth it. Once I got back into my house late Sunday, something was wrong. My very outdated air conditioner stopped working. I had expected this for years. The old machine’s time has long past. Why didn’t I get the free checkup the power company was offering? The repair company couldn’t send anyone until Thursday. These are the times that try men’s souls.

A colleague from work lent me a portable air conditioner that I set up in my bedroom. Another reason to hide out. I’ve taken to my bed these days for several reasons. The new chair in the living room, wide enough to fit my grandson and me but not too comfortable when flying solo. The noisy new neighbors and their exciting pool parties just a few feet away. Now, hiding away in the only room that’s a bearable temperature.

External conditions have always shaped my life in ways that work out well and in a few disastrous falls down the stairs. Four days suffering without AC during a heatwave started to remind me of how critical the environment can be in molding life. The days I spent with my family revealed again to me the tremendous futures my grandchildren will have in life because of the careful investment of love, time and attention their parents have invested in their rich relational environment.

I’m able to witness faculty where I work who spend time developing important relationships with students – making learning so much more meaningful. Watching these mentoring experiences I always see faces lit up with excitement with new discoveries and challenges. It’s a remarkable condition that can cause deeper learning and self-discovery.

Sitting here in this heat reminded me how defeating some conditions can be. I’ve worked in places that had poisonous cultures. People came to the office and died a little more each day. Friends of mine have described family situations that were anything but nurturing. Then there are health conditions that can bring out the best and the worst in people and their circles. I’ve witnessed those who have risen gallantly to almost impossible battles with cancer. Still others have collapsed into blame and fear.

“What I allow into my head finds its way to my heart, which is a porthole to my soul. Therefore, I might be wise to consider the state of my soul, and then walk this process backwards.” ― Craig D. Lounsbrough

When I went to pick up the borrowed portable air conditioner, I was warned about missing the crucial turnoff as many often do.  As an older man I now look back at my younger life and see so much that I had missed. There were so many signs I didn’t see and turns I should have taken. Maybe having someone there, to backseat drive a little might have helped.

My air conditioner was repaired on Wednesday afternoon. I was then out the door for a trip down to Galveston to have dinner with family. They’re young, working hard, starting out their lives in a city faraway from family and friends.  Maybe they could use a little air conditioning?