Rev. Robin Volker

Many years ago, I had the wonderful experience of standing on the beach and watching as the space shuttle raced toward its mission in space.  I felt small and humbled underneath its power and magnificence.  I was reminded of the risks involved in growing.  "To go where no one has gone before" has led the charge for so many advances and achievements.  Yet, most of us do not embrace life's adventures with such enthusiasm.

This summer began my eighth year in Central Ohio.   In many ways, it seems  like yesterday that the study group that grew into Unity in Community began its first class atop the Mean Bean Caffeine Lounge.   We have experienced many changes since we hiked up all those stairs to our free meeting space.

Sometimes we choose to grow; sometimes it seems forced upon us.  The truth is that change is a constant in our lives.  We think we can stand still, but in fact, we cannot.  Heraclitus wrote, "All things move and nothing remains still....You cannot step twice into the same stream."

Now we turn a page, and the adventure of faith continues.  None of us who have been involved on this journey would have ever expected so much growth, such deep relationships, and the opportunity to live life with so much purpose and passion.   Being in community has made it all worthwhile.

Perhaps you are facing change in your life.   Maybe that change was invited.  Maybe it was thrust upon you.  Whatever you are facing in your life is an opportunity for you to grow and expand in some way.  I invite you find someone with whom to share the experience.  It makes the good times greater and the tough times easier.  May we all move and change with ease, grace, and joy.

And the day came when the risk to remain tight in the bud
was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.
-Anais Nin

AFFIRMATION FOR THE WEEK
I celebrate the growth that change brings into my life,
seeking to be a full blossom of the beauty I am created to be.

SCRIPTURE THOUGHT
And the spirit of the Lord shall come upon you....
and you shall be changed into a different person.
I Samuel 10:6.