[Oe List ...] OE Digest, Vol 60, Issue 17

[Lawrence Philbrook]

Dear David

I was in the group in 1988, I am the youngest involved and in the 
complex but understandable formula used this meant receiving the least 
as well.  My father was also irritated that there was not some 
formulation of respect for those who had served but did not happen to be 
around the collegium table at the moment of that decision in Mexico.

I have heard a rumor that even that small amount no longer actually 
exists. I assume because of a combination of the attrition of fees on 
the trust fund and the economic crisis but alas there is no one to ask 
so even my $247 or whatever is offered up to history.

However that has never been a symbol of my decision to be mission.  That 
decision started before I ever joined the order and continues now.  One 
facet of my mission is still the ICA but I strive to live a life of 
mission.  My story may be a little different than many of you because I 
arrived in Chicago at 10 and then left and did not decide about my life 
mission until I was 15.  So I can not say that the Order had no affect 
on that conversation but as I sit here at 54 in Taiwan my understanding 
of my participation in mission is very clear.  I am afraid of tattoos so 
we will have to come up with another option to demonstrate a life of 
service.  My best idea comes from Lucy when she asked Charlie if he had 
another world to choose from  "Well live in it then!"

With respect, Larry