Tuesday, September 22, 2020
JoAnn Warren
Support
I was dreading the possibility that Rob would ask me to write a reflection. I had so enjoyed reading the articulate, poetic, thoughtful, inspiring, elegant pieces of many of my fellow St. John's parishioners. It was intimidating to be called to contribute. But how could I refuse.
My word is "support." Webster includes in the definition of support:
-to endure bravely or quietly
-to advocate
-to uphold or defend
-to serve as a foundation
-to keep from losing courage
Retirement was chosen for me just over a year ago. I feared I would lose my purpose. However, I have come to realize, there is no retirement from parenting. I find purpose in supporting my young adult daughters, not in the financial sense, but as an advocate. Don't lose courage. This too will pass. This time of social, political, economic and medical turmoil is so much more difficult for our young people who are trying to find their place in the world, than for us retired oldsters. I try to be a peaceful home to which they can always return...a foundation.
And during this pandemic time, I have been supported in so many ways, including:
-through my practice of mindfulness
-by my virtual yoga classes
-by walks in the woods, around the neighborhood, on the beach alone or with friends
-by neighbors respectfully wearing masks to keep us all healthy
-by Zoom book club meetings
-by sitting, socially distant, with a friend, on the front stoop, watching the world go by
-by visits from my daughters
-by phone calls from distant friends and family
-and by the beautiful words of so many in the St. John's community.
With gratitude for all your support,
JoAnn