“Rarely, if ever, are any of us healed in isolation. Healing is an act of communion.” bell hooks   

Welcome to the month of Healing…

I hope that you’re all feeling hopeful, calm, and well following this election. It certainly brings up a whole spectrum of emotions for people, everything from joy to outrage. I keep reminding myself of one question lately: “What can I control?”

I have had a little art piece for a few years now that states in Scrabble tiles: “Relax. Nothing is under control.” While that may be an exaggeration, the reality is that we don’t get to choose the outcome of a lot of things. We may not always feel called to relax in heavy, frightening, and devastating moments. However, sometimes the most useful practice to consider is what way we can recharge for when we are needed next.

We do get to do a lot of “voting” in various ways though, in a literal manner, with our dollars, the way we spend our time, etc. Learning to use the emotional energy we feel, especially when we don’t get the results we want, to continue working toward a positive change is so essential. I am still learning to practice this kind of awareness rather than getting stuck in anxiety at some of the harder turns. Our voices matter (and so does our listening) no matter how small the impact sometimes feels. They add up collectively.

This month’s theme is Healing. I am really looking forward to discussing what direction this theme and content might lead us with our kids. I always look forward to checking in with you all too. Know that I am here.

Keep in mind, I would love to reconnect with your family from a distance at a park or your yard. I will be reaching out in the coming days via phone and email to check-in and gauge the interest in this. I know some of us are craving in-person connection, and the opportunity to distance outdoors feels safe to me. It would truly brighten my day getting to see you too!

I am also 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, Wednesdays, 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.

Thank you,
Macey Forsyth