What I Learned When I Slowed Down
WHY I TOOK A SABBATICAL In August of 2021 I learned that my Dad could no longer walk which told us that, according to his illness, this was the beginning of the end. I learned a new term – anticipatory grief – this fell over me and although I couldn’t have named it at the time, it began to chip away at my emotional, relational and mental energy for ministry and life responsibilities. During the Fall of 2021 I managed the ministry basics while going back and forth to/from PA in order to be with my Dad and assist my Mom/family with his care. Finally in Nov 2021 my Dad slipped into the arms of Jesus and we celebrated his life on December 4 th . Grieving him was and continues to be difficult but holy work. Many of you know that I’ve also battled joint issues and chronic pain for many years, adding surgery upon surgery to my list. Chronic pain is like navigating life with a battery that runs out more quickly than those who are not in pain, and considering this – I still (by
