To: Rev. Denise Rogers & AME Today Family

Earlier today I read an article which indicated that former Denver Bronco QB John Elway has contacted his old coach Dan Reeves and requested that he attend the NFL Hall of Fame induction ceremonies in Canton, Ohio next month. Non-football fans may be pondering why is this important? Glad you ask. Elway and Reeves did not see eye-to-eye about his role as QB. Elway publicly criticized his former coach and helped orchestrate the coach's firing. Reeves left Denver a hurt and bitter man. The article today showed how Elway has decided to "bury the hatchet" and not allow bitterness and grudges to impair his relations with Reeves. Reeves was deeply touched by Elway's invitation of reconciliation and plans are in place for him to be one of Elway's special guests for this important moment (Hall of Fame Induction) in his life.

I thought about this story shortly after I read Harold Gibson's suggestion that I apologize for my January 2004 actions which caused Rev. Denise Rogers great distress. I asked myself do I want to act like the John Elway of 1983-1990 or the John Elway of July 9, 2004? I choose the latter, the road less traveled. Therefore, in the true spirit of Christianity, I solemly apologize for any conduct or behavior on my part which caused you personal distress. I have always admired your dedication in the area of rural ministry and your willingness to produce a regular online AME newsletter. You are a great asset to the AME Church and to this BB family. I sincerely wish only the best for both you and your daughter Danielle. I am an imperfect and sometimes complex soul which is why my wife, parents and children are the few who understand me best. However, I am not lacking in basic moral values. James & Bessie Dickens, my parents, did not raise their three sons to be stubborn or hold grudges. I seek to move ahead without this issue hanging over my head. Thanks to Bro. Gibson and John Elway for helping me see once again the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. QED

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Answers

Kind words expressed in such a way make me grateful that I am a child of God. I am thankful to be under the Allen vine and fig tree as well! God bless you Brothers Dickens. All things work together for those who love the Lord! I am so happy, and God is so good!

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Bill, thank you for your beautiful apology, and I do accept it with a grateful heart. Let me also take this opportunity to apologize for any hurt that I may have caused you.

And I truly wish you and your family joy and happiness. I also ask God to pour out his abundance on you as you complete your book.

Again, thank you for such a public apology, it really helps with my recovery.

I only know one football player and that is Jim Brown, because I grew up in Cleveland, and since I was told he was the greatest football player of all times, I did not bother to learn about any other.

Though I did like the one who did the panty hose commercial way back when, Joe something? Joy in Christ, Denise

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Thanks Brother Bill and Rev. Denise! Blessing to you both!

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Bill:

You are to be commended for your grace and your compassion. Thank you for exhibiting the kind of Christian love for which this bulletin board has always been known. May God's grace and mercy be with you always.

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

To My "BB Friends," I have not posted for some time because I was saddened by the absence of the chorus of "voices" that I had become used to. Things just weren't the same. I have been praying that we could return to where we were and I hope we are there. God has surely been watching all of us. He has certainly answered my prayers. "My Angel" and "The Professor" have used God's gift of forgiveness. All praises to Him who has given us the power to love! Turn to your neighbor and say... LOVE!

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Nicely said Bill!

-- Anonymous, July 09, 2004

Fortified, forgiven & forgotten. Much important work lies ahead. As Jesus correctly noted, "The harvest is plentiful but the laborers are few." QED

-- Anonymous, July 10, 2004

Denise, I think his last name is "Namath", if memory serves.

-- Anonymous, July 10, 2004

To both bro. Dickens and Rev. Rogers,

I applaud both of you and only say this, "If many more of us can be so forgining in the asking and the acceptance, the church of God would be closer to being what we are to be."

God Bless both of you.

-- Anonymous, July 14, 2004

Glory to God! Thanks to you both for setting the Christian example for all of us to follow. Bill and Denise you have both given much to this BB and we are blessed to have you. May God's abundant Grace continue to light your path and order your steps.

-- Anonymous, July 14, 2004