My career ends as Lent begins.
I treasure the accolades, the friendships and memories, but the real treasure is God’s faithfulness over fifty years.
Retirement unfolds and I’m called to relax my grip on what was. There’s a Holy knowing in this Lenten season that it’s merely dust and ashes.
Mark my forehead with those ashes - a sign of humility, a reminder of my mortality.
Bass, Rohr and Nouwen are my counselors (via e-mail.*) They are far more helpful than Job’s friends!
Bass reminds me about “stripping the alter,” about our monuments turning to dust. It’s time to sweep out the attic; create something new.
Rohr calls me away from prestige, success and influence. What he calls my survival dance is to be replaced by a sacred dance.
Nouwen encourages a new focus: to think God’s thoughts, to speak God’s words, to take God’s action.
May all of this take hold in my head and heart...in my life. Amen.
* Links to Diana Butler Bass, Richard Rohr and Henri Nouwen:
https://dianabutlerbass.com/the-cottage/
