The door stands wide open. Smiling faces greet us on the other side. Worry and anxiety melt away. Suddenly, we are in our happy place. Our knees do not hurt so much. Our step is livelier and lighter. There is work, and there is play, and there is play while you work and work while you play. Friday puts it all into perspective.

So MJ and I had a lovely dinner with our dear friends Ryan and Elizabeth on Wednesday. Both are employed at Southern Illinois University and were my colleagues when I was there. I thought of old times. I have been retired for over 15 years. SIUC was a blessing to me. I worked my career at the university and began as a BSWI, which is a janitor. People liked me and appreciated my efforts. I had found a home.

Chancellor Argersinger wrote of me that I endeavoured to have a home for all people in Building Services. Empathy is an easy word to say and more difficult to inculcate into culture.

Through the Friday Door is a collection of musings about what is coming. We have a destiny. What we have done in our short lives is just the tip of the iceberg. There is much more unseen than seen.

Friday’s Door is good to walk through for assurance and a sense of place. Life is not only about earning a living but living a life.