Forty years

1969. The Seattle Pilots were playing their first and only year of major league baseball at Sick's Stadium. "Here Come's the Brides" was playing on television (Bobby Sherman!) The tallest building downtown was the Smith Tower until the SeaFirst Building was completed later in the year.

1969 was the year that Rev. Norm Riggins put on a clerical collar and went out on the street at night for the first time with Operation Nightwatch.

Octogenarians usually take life easy. But ever since retirement, Norm and wife Bonnie have volunteered their time. He still has been going to bars to greet patrons and bartenders, she distributes socks and hygiene supplies to homeless people two nights a month.

It gives meaning to life, to care for folks. But now Norm is having trouble. He's a little unsteady on his feet. But I won't count him out. He will fight it. The passion and drive are still there. It's just. . . well, let's face it. The flesh is weak.

Forty years is a long time to stick with something.