As of around 2 pm today, I became a free soul. No longer a bishop's warden. No longer a member of the bishop's committee. No longer a choir member. No longer a lousy secretary. No longer a marginally competent "treasurer". No longer responsible. "Not my problem" is a delicious phrase.
I left a mess. Actually a whole bunch of messes. I apologize but only so far. I warned the people that I am terribly disorganized. They've been able to see that. It will be hard to pick up the pieces. Sorry. There are plenty of people to pick up the pieces if they will do so. I believe they can and will.
A week and a half ago I had a sort of plan. That was trashed by three barely coherent emails full of control issues, projection, paranoia, and more. They hurt, especially since I have no idea what was being asked of me. One issue I understood. I am unwilling to let someone else choose my friends. It didn't take long to realize that those missiles actually set me free however. I would have jumped from the frying pan into the fire but they pushed me off the stove. Thank you, C. (Sniffle.)
So onward. Weather permitting, I'll be driving 100 miles for church in the morning. There are plans for the remaining Sundays as well. After more than 50 years of being tied to church choirs, what fun!!!
Empire over
1 day ago
Posts
14 comments:
Oh, enjoy the freedom, my friend! When my diocese abandoned me, and I was freed from vestries and choirs and stewardship committees and coffee hours and and and and... well, it's new life is what it is!
Another generation's turn now!
Sigh... the institution can so beat up people. I pray that your worship tomorrow can bring you close to God, whose love surpasses any of the messes that arise in the institution.
P.S., you are always welcome at Church of Our Saviour. If no one is staying there, we also have a guest house (since I have three cats who get into all the rooms and whose dander might affect you).
Wishing you blessings in your newfound freedom, joy, and discovery. It's good to see you taking care of yourself and growing into new life.
yes -- sorry that the goodbye was less than Christian -- happy for the freedom
Thanks, Lee. I hope to get up there to see your "new" digs. It is so much fun watching you settle in for a change. Seems forever since you could do that. Sad that the additions mean breaking up the family homestead. Life changes, doesn't it?
Never fear. I'm never far from God who has such an amazing sense of humor. Knowing what I was planning, I got the giggles at the Timothy reading last week. And some of the Facebook memes have been so priceless. All too often tho I bear the brunt of that humor.
I'm not so sure that was a goodbye as much as it was an attempt to mold me in an image she has. I decided it was a withdrawal. Obviously I'm good at running away.
Change is scary, change is good. I wish you well in all that you seek and all that you do. Looking forward to reading more from you! Hugs, Rose
Hope that this initiates a time of wonderful discovery and holy surprises.
I am sorry the the experience you had in your parish church. I used to say, "Church isn't for sissys," and it's true. Sometimes it's really rocky. I am glad to see you on a good path, though, and staying in the institution. Stay 'till they kick you out, that's my motto. I hope the freedom will be just what you need.
Love...
So sorry to hear about this mess, but looks like you're gonna be OK and more than OK. So, "Bless this Mess," and Sayonara. HUGS A MILLION.
I suspect more than one thing is mixed into the post here, because it seems like more than just being over-worked and over-relied upon at your long time parish. Again, whatever the situation, best wishes on your sabbatical.
I don't know if we are masochists or what. I wonder sometimes.
However, the thing that keeps me going is what I believe to be God calling me. And there is always a place where I am needed...I am thankful that it is no longer a 100 mile round trip though!!! LOL
love to you. Share your blessings round!
So sorry things got so rough, but enjoy the freedom. I doubt that Church was ever supposed to be an institution but only loose and changing communities of faith.
((((((Shel)))))
Kathy
Post a Comment