This month, we are invited to begin embracing possibility. It is an important act to consider in times like these. How do we continue to cultivate hope and dream up what is next, when it is so easy to feel discouraged and frustrated?
I had a hard time doing so when I was younger. I did not practice mindfulness then, the way I know it now. As an adolescent, I sometimes struggled with mental health challenges around my own worthiness and possibilities. I felt a fair amount of social anxiety and I certainly was one to argue for my own limitations. Yet, I know now that I was never alone in it.
This past weekend, as I camped with good friends, I thought a lot about my own personal limiting beliefs. Because I was comfortable enough to let go of them for a time, it revealed to me just how often I shy away from people, situations, and endeavors out of the fear of taking a chance and being vulnerable. I felt so at home finally being around people I missed, that for a time, I was not even considering what people thought of me. This letting go happens more and more for me, as I grow older, but a sense of close community helps. Being truly held in community is a healing balm for the soul.
This is hard virtually. It is easier to fully love, trust, and embrace one another when we are physically close. I see the pain that postponing our church reopening causes and find it relatable. Yet, we are showing up for you in the best way we know how. We ask that you consider sharing your feedback, your needs, and your desires with us through the email covidresponse@uumankato.org
May we be gentle with ourselves and one another, as we move through the many emotions that come with this transition of another pandemic season. Let us stay open to the opportunities and possibilities that still do exist in the present, despite the hurdles we are challenged to overcome. I pray we love ourselves so deeply that we go outside of our comfort zones courageously to help rebuild a sense of community. Show us that people are generally kind and that we all want to feel love and connection.
…I am here for you, just an email or a phone call away. While I am no longer holding virtual “office hours”, you can reach me on my personal phone at 507-995-7929 or by email at cfddirector@uumankato.org . If I do not answer, I encourage you to send a text or leave a voicemail. Currently, I am available for daytime meetings on Mondays through Wednesdays, as well as Saturdays and Sundays. I also do have availability most other weekday evenings. I will continue to do my best to serve as a resource to our community, through connecting you to one another and of course, directly. Being a light in the lives of others is as important as ever, and I hope you will stay connected.
Macey Forsyth
Please consider joining our private Facebook group: UUFM Children’s Faith Development (https://www.facebook.com/groups/1404655806251029/). This group is intended for families and congregants who are involved in Children’s Faith Development. My approval of new members’ access to the information there is what makes the group a safe space for sharing. I will be sharing our weekly stories as Facebook videos on my personal page publicly and sharing them in the group, as well as short prayers and meditations.
Link to the stories: Our virtual Stories for All Ages are now available on the UUFM YouTube Channel. At least one new story will be available by Sunday, each week.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNwWkbABO6HpDlw5Po2TdQA?view_as=subscriber
Our next dates… As always, Zoom links will be sent out via email and posted to our private Facebook groups:
Children’s Faith Development via Zoom:
Sunday, September 12th, 11:30am-12:30pm, Children’s Chapel with Deb and Macey
Youth Group via Zoom:
Wednesday, September 15th: 6:30-8pm, Youth Group – check-in + fun and games with Barb and Macey