I was sent to Prairie for grade 9. Sometimes I have said that this was my "salvation", Rescued from a difficult family situation, being at Prairie, even with all those rules, was like a liberation for me. From the first day, to my graduation from Bible School 10 years later, I was riveted by the truths presented by Mr. Maxwell.
With his "more think and less ink" some of the things he said came across like a brand new revelation, and there were also sleepers, that worked their way into your thinking over time. Let's put together our recollections of those days. What impressed you? Maybe we could eventually categorize our comments. There probably is a better method than this blog. Send your ideas. My idea is to take your comments and pass them into new posts. Rather than quote from his books and biographies, let's pick our memories. Although this is mainly for former students, maybe the Maxwell family could give some inside information.
Let's hear from you.
Those of us who had the privelege of studying under Mr. Maxwell probably have a lot of memories of his teaching that don't appear in the books by him or about him. Things he said and did. Let's share these. We are not only honoring his memory, but also keeping a record of his unique spirit-filled teaching. Without much experience I've simply opened this blog, hoping for your comments, which I will transform into posts. Better ideas welcomed.
What you wrote here, resonates with me about 50%. I was very similar to your situation when I attended PHS in 1984 as a senior. I, too, came from a difficult family situation, whereas yours, I supposed was missional, mine was a clear separation from my own folks due to immigration. It would be another few more years before I was reunited with my folks in Canada.
ReplyDeleteAs you said, with all these rules, you have a lot of people with resentment. I on the other hand, was freed from my family situation. I had stayed and over stayed my uncle's family's welcome since 1980. For the last year (1983-4), life was very much difficult and emotional. My late uncle was a great man with a big heart, but staying there for the 4 year period was a trial for them. Prairie was a place of refuge, and freedom.
Many folks came away and permanently affected by your LE. Some of the people I know are very resentful of him because he had knowingly, perpetuated a theology that was damaging to their God. Their lives were further affected because of their own abused while at Prairie. I do not mean to do you harm when you put this blog up to commemorate your cherished memory of LE. But do be aware of other ex-Prairie people and their ire. (see Facebook/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/pbi.open/). I am no longer a group member, but I appreciate your blog, at least the first 50%. I can relate to that. Today, I still live a life not much different from what I was taught at Prairie, minus the concept of an angry, Roman God. Now I worship God regularly in my own garden, in the midst of children laughter, and growing garlic.
I wish you well, and best of luck in all that you do. I remain, as an ardent supporter of PHS 1985. Beyond that, I no longer connect with the school or its people. Thanks.