Something for the Journey
from Nic Cable, UUMA Board of Trustees Vice-President
Dear Colleagues,
I offer prayers of comfort and support as you enter the fall which can be a time of great stress. Whether you are a community minister, parish minister, in formation for ministry, or retired, I hope you find a moment to breathe between the demands of the day and the uncertainties of the night.
Our ministries and your leadership are unfolding at a time of tremendous need. We need you and your ministry. The world needs you. And I am thankful that you are rising to the challenges and possibilities before us all. This fall, I’m reminded of the story of the Hydra from greek mythology. One of Hercules’ many tests was to defeat the many headed Hydra. Despite his Herculean efforts (literally), with every accomplishment or sign of progress, the challenges would multiply two or three times as before. Ministry in non-profit settings, hospitals, prisons, churches, and the like always finds a way to leave you wanting less. Less tasks, less juggling, less criticism. Less injustice. Less suffering. Less.
In times of mounting demands and fleeting hours in the day, I find turning to some of my colleagues who I trust and love for support can make all the difference. Just carving out a short phone call, impromptu (how retro), or even a text message can give me a precious pause and a reminder that I am not alone. You, my colleague, are not alone. You are a part of the UUMA and that means you and everyone reading this have admitted we can’t face the challenges before us alone. Indeed, we need one another! Our UUMA staff, board, and countless volunteers are here for you. This Association is as bound by and liberated through covenant as we make it.
I hope you will turn to a colleague this fall, when you feel you need it and when you don’t. We never know when a brief impromptu hello or a kind text can pull a colleague back from the brink and refresh them for the journey ahead.
Blessings and peace in these days to come.
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