A Word from Laura - EIIL
I’ve always known I have lots to learn. I just never knew how quickly it would have to happen:
how to communicate kindness when 80% of my face is covered…
how to talk to people in a room and on a camera so that everyone knows I’m speaking directly to them…
how to use new apps for the sake of time management and communication and graphics…
how to continue unpacking the invisible knapsack of white privilege…
how to discern what is really news…
how to determine how many people can safely share what size space.
We’re all climbing steep learning curves, no matter who we are. The act of living requires new reservoirs of energy, intelligence, imagination and love none of us anticipated.[1]
And we’re living, some days better than others.
The Presbyterian Church (USA) has made a commitment to leaders for the living of these days. Faith leader – and previous guest preacher at Western – Rodger Nishioka writes a monthly blog for “serving faithfully.” It’s designed for church elders and deacons, but it’s relevant for all of us.
Last month Rodger[2] shared his way of breathing before he prays. He pauses, breathing in and silently repeating “Breathe in God’s mercies,” breathing out with an unspoken “Breathe out God’s mercies to others.”
Breathing in, breathing out. So simple, so universal, and so needed, as we all learn how to breathe again.
I hope you’ll take a moment to read Rodger’s blog. I haven’t read all of his posts, but you may subscribe for his monthly update.
Maybe you feel your reservoirs are running low. Maybe your learning curve is feeling a little steep for the equipment you have been given. Know that you are not alone. Remember you are part of a community where we’re working on this together, where we’re centered in the gifts God’s Spirit is already giving us, for the sake of life now and always.
May God grant us wisdom, grant us courage, for the living of these days,[3]
Laura
[1] If this phrase sounds familiar, chances are good you made a promise to serve Western with energy, intelligence, imagination and love (EIIL). Even if it was a while ago, your ordination continues!
[2] Out of deep respect for his spiritual charisma, wisdom, and teaching, some Presbyterians refer to Rodger by his first name only. Sort of like Moses. Or Beyoncé. Or whomever occupies your personal pantheon. Not that we believe in pantheons.
[3] I am particularly partial to Allan’s musical arrangements for our Sunday worship. That being said, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian in NYC has a lovely arrangement of Harry Emerson Fosdick’s God of Grace and God of Glory that may help refill your EIIL reservoir, particularly if it’s traditional Presbyterian-shaped.