Extended Family

Most people say that it takes a really good cohort to make it through this program. In August, I was introduced to five strangers who've become like family. All hailing from different parts of the country, we each bring a unique personality and experience to this group process. Above all, we bond like no other.

Lately, I feel like there have been experiences that have really demonstrated the strength of our connection. We consistently come together to get through tough assignments, and figure out how we can work as a team to deal with some of the personalities and challenges that we face from week to week. Last week we had an exceptionally fun time as we came together to support one of our members at a performance; this week we've had to really rally to make it through.

In the matter of a few days we've dealt with a bit of a dark hovering cloud; one of our professors just returned after having a father pass away, one of our colleague's mom fell and broke her hip, and today, one of our members was robbed in broad daylight. When we heard today's news, there was a sharp pain that numbed each of us. An eerie energy lurked as we struggled to make it through our four-hour stats session knowing that one member of our team was home, devastated.

After class, we went to her home and I struggled to even listen to the details as she recaptured the crime. I was sickened and horrified by the acts of ignorance that had shaken up my friend's sense of safety; It hurt like I was there. I could feel her pain swell up in my own body. I was angry, felt helpless, and even afraid.

...and then we prayed. We prayed together for God's covering; we affirmed Whose we are, and called on the ancestors to just dispatch around us. We figured we could be paralyzed by fear, or comforted by faith.

Each one of us has been called to this journey for a reason. We each have unique ways that we intend to transform the world. We know that God has not brought us this far in vain. With God's strength and love, we keep pushing forward. I'm grateful I'm not going this alone.

Please keep us in prayer