Approximately 40 years ago, I had the privilege of attending a seminar conducted by Bill Gothard, an experience that left a lasting impression on me. As an individual who is easily swayed by others, I found myself attracted to Bill and his teachings. His exceptional presence and charm set him apart from anyone I had ever encountered, and I was captivated by his remarkable ability to memorize passages from the New Testament and segments of Old Testament poetry. Bill's distinctive instructional approach resonated with me, as he diverged from the conventional teaching methods I had previously encountered. His impact on me during that period was profound and has continued to resonate with me over the years.

Following attendance at a seminar, I made the conscious decision to commit to the memorization of Scripture. Beginning with Romans 5, I adopted the practice of reviewing two verses daily during my commute to and from work. As I progressed in memorizing chapters 5, 6, and 7, I found myself deeply engaged in the process, experiencing a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment. The repetitive nature of the discipline ceased to be mundane, as I discovered a profound sense of fulfillment. Delving into the Epistles further intensified this sensation, prompting me to embrace the repetition as a means to accessing the inherent sweetness that accompanied the recitation of verses. Even when reciting without focused attention on the words, the continuous flow of scripture continued to evoke the same sense of gratification within me.

The increasing sweetness of this experience led me to recognize that divine providence was at work, guiding me towards a path that involved extensive travel. As I journeyed, I found myself prioritizing memorization and contemplation, which shifted my focus away from mundane concerns. This transition made me feel as though I was leading a dual existence, experiencing a profound sense of liberation as I delved deeper into meditation. I attribute this path to God's intention to bring me closer to His love, by placing me among individuals who shared a similar spiritual perspective. Reflecting on the past three and a half decades, I can discern how God has been directing my family and me, fostering a special bond within our community. This sweetness is not merely an internal sensation, but a manifestation of God's divine plan unfolding in my life.