Letter to the Elder and Sheline Families

If you are reading this letter, hopefully you have already read the General Apology. This letter is being shared publicly and to a large number of people ... therefore, it cannot state specifics. . If you want a more thorough explanation, you can visit my Personal Testimony page of this website where I elaborate on many details. If you would like to talk privately about any issues, please contact me.

Problems with Family History

This is not the place to try and resolve any family disputes ... but to move forward, they must be acknowledged. I do not state the following as an excuse, but as background to real life situations.

As a child, even up into my twenties, I was quite naive regarding the grudges and problems between the various families (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.). I somehow grew up thinking it was normal to only meet my cousins once a year near Christmas [and I never met extended family (second cousins onward)]. I simply did not know any of you beyond a superficial level.

It was not until much later in life, that I learned about various problems, "skeletons in the closet", and events that separated so many people. It was not until much later in life that I also experienced some of the same and started to understand the patterns of distance I see in the ancestry and family tree. These events are a tragedy. And as I come to value those who act like family more ... I sadly find about half of my cousins have already passed away.

My Life

I did not help these matters. In my youth, I was introverted and shy. It was difficult to open up to people I barely knew ... even if they are supposed to be family. Spending a few hours with a person once a year did not foster or encourage a relationship.

As I became an adult, life became busy with work and hobby ... and I did not pursue family relationships. It simply did not cross my mind. I am sorry.

As I became a believer ... and as I started understanding our relationship, not Just with with Eternal, but with each other, I have come to value family and friends much more. I hope you can forgive my indifference.