I am really bowled over with gratitude at the gifts you all created for me and presented at the annual meeting. For those of you who were not present and didn’t know about this impressive congregational project, no fewer than twenty congregants created a beautiful stole for me… plus a blanket and some gorgeous and functional hangers. Then, Marilyn Landis created a fabulous Dr. Seuss-esque artistic book about the whole thing. The whole thing is heartwarming beyond words. And a marvelous example of collaborative community.

As I mentioned on Sunday, people don’t always receive clear affirmation that their work is appreciated. We are often very vocal when something has disappointed us, but human beings can sometimes be stingy when it comes to gratitude and praise. I’m grateful to be in a community that is able to let me know that they value what I offer. More than that, many of you are able to name very specifically what you notice or appreciate—not just about me, but about our community overall. This is an important thing to give voice to.

When I look at the stole that you all helped to create, I see a masterpiece of connection… the result of a group of co-conspirators devoted to doing their part to source something beautiful. Each person didn’t need to do an exorbitant amount of work. Each could do what was appropriate for them to do. And there was space for people to offer something unexpected. Like hangers! So, an open and inviting, permissive spirit. 

Yes, there was some secrecy going on. I honestly had no idea that there was even a gift in store for me at the annual meeting. There’s obviously a rarefied little niche of beneficial results when a community has a habit of secrecy! 

I say that tongue-in-cheek, but in all honesty, I think the difference is at the roots. This secret was rooted in fun and gratitude and appreciation. It was fed by life-affirming values. It wasn’t fed by fear. That makes all the difference. 

Maybe there are ways that this gift can be symbolic of other things we might envision together. Way that we can embrace sustainable co-creation to reach beyond what any of us could do all by ourselves. Possibilities that allow people to contribute a meaningful piece without over-exerting themselves. Attitudes that are open and inviting and permissive when folx bring unexpected ideas forward. There is so much inspiring, wholesome, meaty goodness exemplified by this wonderful gift. 

So, even as I continue to bask in gratitude, still a bit awestruck at the honor of your gifts of time and creativity, a part of me wonders: What’s next? After a breath and a rest and a few nods of satisfaction, how else might we co-conspire to bring forth something beautiful in the world? 

Don’t answer too quickly. Possibilities will emerge. For now, I’m content to say once again: thank you, thank you, thank you. (And I’m absolutely wearing this stole when I walk in the Service of the Living Tradition next Thursday at General Assembly!)  

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