The Bear is sold

It is finished!..........................  The Bear has been sold!..................  Goodbye beloved building!  

Your keys are no longer in my pocket!  Your bills and licenses are no longer in my name!  Your boiler is no longer my problem!  Your blocked drains are no longer mine to clear!  

I shed a tear in memory of 21 years of dedications, baptisms, worship, prayer, learning, dancing, defending, building, laughing, crying, embracing, screaming, eating.

You have been empty and full, filthy and sparkling, loved and neglected, cared for and abused.  You have allowed us to reshape your insides without complaint.  You have remained steadfast serving silently through all our ideas, our visions and our fancies.  You have harboured the beginning of fledgling careers,  People inspired within your humble walls will change the world.

Farewell old friend - may your new owner be good to you!  May you stand giving light to the community when we are long gone.