Four months ago I was on the phone with an acquaintance from Anderson, SC who told me that she used to work in a Oconee County school. She had no idea I was getting ready to leave my service as Pastor at the Fair Play Church (Oconee County as well). As she was reflecting on her time working in Fair Play she said, “Working in Fair Play was one step away from Heaven”.  I could not agree more. It has been an honor and a joy to work in a community such as Fair Play. Sure, like every town or village, it has its share of challenges and numerous opinions on how to face them. There is however, an authentic interaction of the people in Fair Play. Ask me why? All I can say is that these men and women(of all ages and backgrounds) have lived enough of life that they value each day as a gift. Perhaps it is because there are people who have lived there all their lives (generations) living and working with all the new people who moved here to be on the shores of Lake Hartwell, start a business, retire, or want to build a life on the expansive tracks of land in and around the area.

Life is measured a little differently in Fair Play. I will admit, that my observations are through the lenses of a small church Pastor (one of the greatest jobs anyone can have). But, I would wage, if you live in Fair Play or have spent anytime there yourself, you would find my reflections ring true. I will keep the Fair Play JOY in my heart as I leave a place “one step away from heaven”.