Aliyah just rode a bike without training wheels for the first time.
After many attempts, after some predictable moments of frustration, after some fear and vows to only ride three-wheeled scooters forever, there was an opening to try again, and there we were.
I could see and feel the synapses connecting. “Just keep pedaling,” I said—over and over. I think it would be hilarious to see a transcript of the dialogue from these practice sessions because it's me repeating the same things over and over. And sure enough, her body started to learn, and her mind, too, slowly came to trust this new thing.
And then it clicked!
And three pedals become five, and then ten.
Her smile is big and her pride is swelling. Pedal after pedal.
It clicked, just like we knew it would.
As I saw her pedal farther away, I thought of her two siblings, so many years ago, pedaling away. I thought of our eldest, Ben, now learning to drive. And I thought of so many of you with your children leaving for college for the first time this year. And the babies we will bless with the water we will gather this coming week, on September 8, at our annual Water Ingathering service.
So many cycles and patterns, so many moments in our lives where we find ourselves in new and evolving places. And one of the beautiful things about First Church is that we are here, together in all these moments. We will be gathering our parents of recently launched college students in the coming weeks, such a precious time to be witnessed and supported. We are connected to one another as we begin retirement, redefining our lives and exploring what comes next. Over and over, connected in this loving community, we face and celebrate our lives together.
So welcome back.
Welcome to another wonderful year in the life of the church. As always, stay tuned for many invitations and news about what is coming this fall and this year.
And also as always, do not hesitate to reach out if there is any way I can be of support. Whatever you are facing, I am here for you, and your community is here for you. In addition to me and the other ministers and other wonderful staff, chances are we know of someone in the church who has faced a similar moment, and it's always my great joy to connect you.
So much love, see you soon,
Rev. Chris