 Just a few weeks ago all three of us got to attend the Nurturing Spirit retreat put on by Creating Connection in BC. While perhaps the most immediately memorable moment was waking up Sunday morning to a foot of snow, the impact of the stories and wisdom shared there will linger in our hearts for a long time. In connecting about the very human topic of caring for ourselves, we got to listen to the vulnerabilities and struggles of those gathered. As folks shared of challenging times they’ve experienced in marriages, in parent-child relationships, and in workplaces, what stood out were the imperfections of life that connect us. There was a certain beauty in the vulnerable and gracious sharing that took place. What a relief to be reminded that no one is perfect! It was a joy to sit with one another in truth instead of behind the armour we sometimes wear to protect ourselves and appear perfect. How beautiful to see our scarred and wrinkled fleshy faces, made in God’s image, rather than the smooth masks we often hide behind. Experiences like these can remind us that we offer kind and genuine ministry when we lead from our truths and scars, rather than in spite of our truths and scars. As we draw closer to world conference many issues facing the church rest heavy on our hearts, not because of the legislation but because behind that legislation there are individuals who are impacted by the results of the decisions that are made. Could our policies reflect a pastoral and generous acknowledgement of our humanity and imperfection? When we consider decisions let us remember that imperfect humans like ourselves can feel more or less included in our church family as a result of those decisions. Remembering that none of us are perfect, like Jesus reminded the crowd when they were about to cast stones, can help us be more compassionate to one another, and, more importantly perhaps, to ourselves. Hiding our struggles and our truths perpetuates shame and fear. Sharing our true selves brings in light, communal support, and reminds us all that we are not alone. 
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