Courageous Community
Transitions are a part of life. The end of a school year, the start of a new job or the next step in a growing relationship. Just this month my youngest son graduated from pre-school. I felt a mix of emotions. Joy and gratitude, but also a surprising amount of grief and fear. Saying goodbye to that chapter was harder than I expected, and with it came a host of questions about the future. How will he do in kindergarten? How do I equip him for the next step? What’s priority in the life of my family this Summer? So many decisions to make and a myriad of emotions surrounding them.
Celebrating 8th Grade Graduations with The Tribe.
Tucked inside every transition are countless decisions - big and small - which ultimately shape us and our future. But decision making can be paralyzing. What if we make the wrong decision? What if I’m not ready or don’t have what I need? What if I missed God’s plan for my life? Transitions are scary when we feel alone in the decision-making process.
At BJM we consider transitions and the decisions that women and girls make in those seasons, to be opportunities for empowerment. Whether they are weighing their sobriety, discerning next steps for their safety, or simply choosing a high school to attend, these moments create space for us to spur them towards courage and away from fear. Fear is amplified in isolation, but courage is accessed in community. We remind them that we believe in them, and they aren’t alone. We point out that God promises to never leave them and that they have the capacity to make great choices. And then we cheer them on and celebrate every win – no matter how small!
Celebrating courageous community at Nail Day!
If you’re in the midst of transition and feel paralyzed by all the decisions you are facing, may I suggest you reach out to your people. Ask them to remind you of truth. Tell them you need a support team and their ongoing encouragement. And if you know someone in transition, consider how you can be a champion for them. Your presence may be just what they need to take that leap forward.
Happy Summer!
Ruthie Kim
@ruthiekim