January, 2019
Dear Friends,
I recently gave a message at one of my church's inter-generational evening services and shared a message from Martin Luther King, Jr. He told us:
"There are three dimensions of any complete life: length, breadth, and height. Now the length of life is the inward concern for one’s own welfare. In other words, it is that inward concern that causes one to push forward, to achieve his own goals and ambitions. The breadth of life is the outward concern for the welfare of others. And the height of life is the upward reach for God.
Now you got to have all three of these to have a complete life."
During 2018, I witnessed a complete life at Friendship House. Many of us, including staff, volunteers, residents and clients pushed forward to achieve goals - another year of recovery, finding someone a job, securing additional funding, stepping up to an additional shift when all you want to do is go to bed.
I witnessed on an almost daily basis how each and every one of us increased our breadth of life through service to others. We worked to lend a hand to our neighbors, we fought to ensure our mission spread to more people, we sat next to a friend as she gave her dying breath.
And, through it all, I saw time and time again how we reached up toward God. We listened for our orders. We prayed for guidance. We tried to obey - even when we fell short. Every action, every intention, brought us closer to God and to one another.
Yes, Friendship House lived a complete life in 2018.
2018 was indeed a full year. We not only exceeded our budget expectations, we ended the year with a tremendous cash reserve. You will hear more from our Treasurer, Scott Sapp, at our board meeting on Saturday, February 2!
The year may have ended strong financially, but it was a very emotionally draining one. We lost many people to many diseases. The past three months alone ended with much heart ache. We lost many people we loved and cared about. A Friendship House past staff member, residents and clients, many family and friends to us all. We continue to struggle with the pain that can come with caring so much because its impossible not to when you get to know those you serve. It is challenging and deeply rewarding work. And you know that - that's why you chose to serve with us. To grow your life in length, breadth, and height.
Thanks seems too small of a word.
I hope to see you at our next board meeting February 2 - to celebrate and mourn. To encourage us on and wrestle with the challenges. To continue our mission of caring compassionately and with love. To live a complete life. Till then -
Your biggest fan,
Kim
