Reading the Wednesdays with Wyndham series, one can’t help but understand that Wyndham loved to fish.  As his brother-in-law for 40+ years, I have had the blessing of sharing in some of the fishing adventures and contributing to the legacy of fish stories that made their way to the memory books.

One of my favorite quotes is,  “Fishing is not so much about catching fish, but being in places where fish are likely to be.” Over the years, Wyndham and I fished together and we enjoyed catching fish, but more importantly, we experienced the joy of being together as friends and brothers in Christ. Being committed fishermen, we have fished in calm seas and rough seas, in daylight and darkness, and with many other friends. Fishing together provided many memories of spending time together and enjoying the blessings of life which God has so richly provided.

I have always appreciated the perspective which Wyndham shared with me. Living a thousand miles apart, our time together was limited to times when we traveled north to Boston or when Wyndham and Jeanie traveled south to Florida. I have always appreciated being able to pick up where we left off from our previous visit as though time had not been a factor in our relationship. 

Fishing with Wyndham meant time to focus on important things in addition to catching fish.

Wyndham has a great understanding of boundaries and when to speak and when to listen.  As an elder, he shared with me about the need for fellow elders to be open to one another and be willing to hear what others had to say. He stressed the need for openness and accountability, and honesty and vulnerability.  He has always been able to blend his experiences with God’s word, and his love for others. His gentleness and humility have allowed him to have relationships that transcend the norm.

I always appreciated that we could have a conversation and Wyndham would offer his thoughts without passing judgment. That quality allowed him to keep the doors open for further conversation.  That being said, he was not reluctant to speak the truth in love and encourage others to do the same. He has the ability to be helpful without taking over.

Wyndham and I share a very special bond, along with Bob Harrell, and (the late) Wayne Martin. The four of us were answers to prayers which Dick and Martha Whitehead prayed on behalf of their daughters Carolyn, Kay, Barbara, and Jeanie. They prayed that God would bless each of their daughters with Christian men who loved God and loved their daughters. The four daughters and the four sons-in-law shared the legacy of having Dick and Martha Whitehead as parents. We have all experienced the joy of Christian hospitality, loving relationships with our brothers and sisters in Christ, and the joy of reaching out and bringing others into a relationship with God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.  We have also experienced the blessings of grace-filled marriages, loving children, and exceptional, adoring grandchildren. Jesus said that ” I have come that you might have life and have it to the full (abundantly).” Yes, we have all been truly blessed and I am very grateful to Wyndham for everything he has contributed to the Whitehead family and legacy.