Director of Spiritual Care Jim Andrews
Last week, I sat in Tropicana Field as the stately and ceremonial sounds of “Pomp & Circumstance” echoed through the stadium. I watched incredulously as my golden gowned daughter walked proudly across the stage claiming a document which closed the books on 18 years of parenting. As cliché as it sounds, it really did seem like it was just a short while ago that we were celebrating a whole host of other milestones: first steps, first words, starting kindergarten, sneaking in to exchange that tiny little tooth with a dollar and a note from the tooth fairy. Somehow, though, there she was – eyes shining with the thrill of accomplishment and with the anticipation of a future of independence and adventure. And in that moment, two of the most profound tasks of life were held: to love deeply, and to let go.
This dynamic of loving deeply and letting go is played out throughout our lives in countless ways both big and small, personal and professional. Sometimes, the pain of loss can close us off so that we are unwilling to open our hearts again, becoming stuck in a painful past and missing out on the new chapter to which our lives are calling us. Sometimes our awareness that nothing lasts forever prevents us from jumping into love with both feet. We hold something back.
May we find the courage to continue to love deeply even knowing that we will one day be letting go. And may we have the wisdom to honor and accept that the seasons of our lives while impermanent, mark a new beginning with every ending.
Have a great week, everyone!
Jim