We knew we couldn't keep him forever, but we held on as long as we possibly could. Our good friend and writing mentor, Dr. Sherwood Wirt, has finally departed our San Diego Christian Writers Guild (which he founded) in favor of a higher calling.
Woody Wirt was our friend (here's Woody at 93, with David, attending and teaching at the guild's annual fall conference in Rancho Bernardo) and our mentor in writing and life. We learned so much from his wise example!
Woody taught us humility. He authored 42 books in his lifetime, and was working on book #43 when he passed away. We've seen the notes; that next book would be wonderful just like his others. Our favorite from the entire group? His translation of St. Augustine's "Confessions" which is titled "Love Song." Although the book is out of print, find it where you can and simply enjoy. Augustine's prose may have been beautiful; Woody's is gorgeous. Yet despite all his success in publishing, Woody was approachable and humble, patient with beginners, never condescending or proud.
Woody taught us intellectual curiosity. At age 97, even just before his death, Woody was learning -- learning -- learning. He was always learning! Woody was the last journalist to interview C.S. Lewis before Lewis died; out of those notes Woody wrote articles and taught courses about Lewis. Woody's wide-ranging intellectual curiosity covered all things Christian, many of the great periods of history, anything about words and writing.
Woody taught us personal integrity. Woody was the pioneering editor of Billy Graham's magazine called "Decision." The magazine grew out of Woody's interviews with Billy Graham and his subsequent involvement in the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. Woody traveled the world with Graham and his team, always modeling the highest standards of personal character and personal integrity. Billy Graham surrounded himself with men of exceptional talent: Dr. Sherwood Wirt was one of those men!
Woody taught us the virtue of humor. Positive, encouraging, and always filled with zest for life, Woody survived the death of his first wife, whom he deeply loved, and yet kept his love for life. Eventually Woody married again -- he is survived by his wonderful Ruth, who has cared for him with such tender love in Woody's later years. Woody was always quick with a punch line, quick with word play, quick to laugh! Any interaction with Woody involved a great deal of laughter: Woody knew the value of fun.
Ten books and dozens of articles into our rookie season as authors, our lives have been hugely impacted by Woody Wirt's personal example, his wisdom about words, and his extended ministry through our guild. It's hard to imagine writing without Woody -- but we know he's in heaven's library right now, either reading or writing.
Woody, you continue to inspire us!
