The Oates Journal (ISSN: 1098-1446) is a publication of the Wayne E. Oates Institute addressing issues related to spirituality, ethics, and healing from the perspective of pastoral care and counseling.

Fifty Years In His Shadow

by Edward Thornton, Ph.D.

"What is it like living in the shadow of Wayne Oates?"

It is like living on a property shaded by a magnificent maple
rooted just over the fence.
The tree stands tall and strong
creates verdant abundance in spring
cool shadows in summer
vibrant colors in fall
and a symmetrical, graceful structure in winter.

Wayne is the kind of tree old timers would name in a deed
marking a boundary
tracking a wilderness.
He is a landmark for travelers, reassuring
defining identity, naming a place
encouraging one to look beyond the now
into the not yet.

As neighbor, he is a tree that asks little for itself
Though it bears the wounds of many storms, it stands there
indestructible. Never intruding and ever blessing
it creates under its canopy a space for rest
reassurance about the journey ahead.

A fatherless child
Wayne was found by a family of faith and grew
into one of those trees of whom the psalmist sings:

planted by streams of water,
which yield their fruit in its season,
and their leaves do not wither.
In all that they do, they prosper.
Psalm 1:3 (NRSV)

Yes, I have lived in his shadow for fifty years.
I praise God for an exceptional gift.

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