Bluebird Meadows of Stevensville, Michigan

The weather was perfect. All of the logistical planning had paid off. The immense gathering covered the canyon to make it look like it had been painted with a grand mosaic. The media helicopters and planes had completed their aerial shots and had departed according to Adam’s instructions. Everyone took their seats and the master of ceremonies got things started.

"Welcome everyone to this Day With God. Our first musical act is ready to begin. Feel free to join in the singing. Each of you should have your free event book which contains all the lyrics and text for today’s material. We hope you enjoy the day and remember to refrain from applause - we are here to learn and understand, not to be entertained."

With those few remarks, the first group began their song. They were followed by the reading of a poem. The third presenter read a tribal story about the relationship of the earth, the animals, and man. And so the day went. It was a most diverse collection of legends, poetry and songs - from all the corners of the globe - some contemporary, some ancient - and yet it somehow all seemed to be related.

Adam’s remarks over the weeks were having an effect. People were beginning to see how close together the world’s beliefs and values really were. They saw present day relevance in stories from long ago. When they experienced a difference with others, they were taking time to understand if it was a common concept but expressed with a different name or described using different terminology. People also began to readily see the aspects of their inherited beliefs and values which encouraged aggressive behavior toward others who were not exactly the same. For the first time in their lives, many of the attendees were able to look at another culture with respect and understanding.

It was late afternoon when they reached the point in the program where Adam was scheduled to speak. The master of ceremonies announced there would be another 30 minute break. A muffled din came from the large crowd as people stood up, walked around, and talked with one another.

As Adam walked toward the stage, the group exchanged puzzled looks at each other. Finally Pastor Kanger shouted "What do you mean ‘when you’re gone’?"

Adam paused at the edge of the stage and removed his shoes and socks but did not respond to the pastor’s question. Adam only smiled.