WHY?

It's been a good week, all in all.  I've learned a few things new and been reminded of a couple of things I'd forgotten.  I count it a good week when I've regained some insight and perhaps, some wisdom.

This week, I've attended several meetings with different groups and organizations.  The common theme of those meetings and the current focus of those organizations is managing changing circumstances.  The world is changing; we are part of the world...so, we are changing too.  But, when it comes to change, our tendency is to try to protect WHAT we currently have.  WHAT we have now is WHAT we are comfortable with.  I'm learning that our first priority should not be to protect the status quo.

On Wednesday, I watched a TEDx video* that suggests our first priority ought to be about WHY, not WHAT. (I'll stop capitalizing "why" and "what" now - that's tiresome).  In that video, and in the discussions that have followed it this week, I've been reminded and convinced that why we do things must be the foundation to what we do. 

First United Church engages in significant outreach and social justice efforts throughout the year.  This spring, we have supported mental health with our donation of personal hygiene bags; and, In May, we launched our Canadian Foodgrains bank campaign.  Just last week, we completed our annual book and bake sale and raised over $2,040.00.  Some of that money will be donated to a Books for Kids program through the spiritual care and grief counselling team at the hospital where Rev. Kathy Underwood serves.  All of those things are "what" we do...they are our mission.

What about our "why"?  As followers of Jesus, the Way is very clear:  "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  This is the first and great commandment.  The second is like unto it. Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."  That is our "why". 

In times of change, it's important to hold tight to WHY.  As Kristal reflected with us last Sunday, it's simple but it's not easy. 

Blessings and peace to all.

Pat

* 2009 TEDx talk, Simon Sinek, link to it: https://www.ted.com/talks/simon_sinek_how_great_leaders_inspire_action?language=en

Take This Thought Away With You

People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it."

~ Simon Sinek ~

A Week's Worth of Gratitude

Saturday ~ generous donors and shoppers

Sunday ~ Kristal

Monday ~ Laurel, Diana, Nancy & Stephen

Tuesday ~ First Editions book club

Wednesday ~ dinner companions

Thursday ~ John Wilson

Friday ~ Viola Knight