Words of Encouragement
from Rhonda Abrams, Bereavement Coordinator
One year ago, our world and the way we live, was drastically changed by the influx of the COVID-19 pandemic with its life altering wake. No one could have imagined that our world would shift into such a state of existence. With that said, here we stand looking back with hindsight on all that we have lost and taken for granted. Many of us wish we could go back and hug a little longer, say a kind word to someone who was secretly struggling, or in general be a lot more care-giving. We’ve lost loved ones and friends, our freedoms to go about where and how we want, and maybe even tragically our very sources of income and provisions. But, to quote the wise words of author/poet Maya Angelou, “…and still we rise!”.
March 20th is the beginning of Spring and a natural calling to spring forward. As the slumber and repose of winter is shaken off, we launch forward toward brighter and longer days, to the stirrings of animals preparing for a new cycle of life, and to flora and vegetation springing forth. It’s a welcomed feast for our eyes and our souls. We ourselves are awakened and renewed. It’s an opportunity to start anew with greater wisdom and vision for growth.
We are also in the midst of a Lenten season of prayer and reflection. We solemnly look back at the lessons from the past year and we apply them as knowledge toward what lies ahead. It is a time to replace the old with the new. As Easter approaches, Jesus is calling us to Rise Up with Him from our old ways of being and to move forward to new purposes; New life.
So let’s celebrate the awakening of new opportunities and new strengths this Spring. Spring forward and Rise Up!
