Angela our Anna Chaplain and Richard our Authorised Pastoral Assistant hosted our first well attended Anna Gathering in St Peter’s Church hall on 27th March.
Jackie’s poem below, which she shared, caused much interest and discussion. Carol shared a poem with us as well. We were inspired to have a go at putting pen to paper, if only one word or phase, as it is cathartic to express what our soul feels. We will share our experience of doing this next time.
Our Parish Nurse talked about the ‘Wheel of Wellbeing’ and we enjoyed refreshments together.
The next Anna Gathering will be on Thursday 24th April from 2-4pm in the church hall. You are invited to attend if you are interested in exploring spirituality, creativity and wellbeing.
Struggling to Belong
What is it that makes me who I am and why the fear I don’t belong
Is it my origins, the culture, the family who gave me life
Or the place I called home
A struggle, never easy
Just a feeling, no one’s fault
Did I become a misfit or was I one all along, suffering those silent internal conflicts!
What about the schools I attended and the friends I did or did not have?
Maintaining distance knowing I was in some ways other or different
How about my sense of self and my sense of worth, was I ever good enough?
Feeling safe behind invisible walls, not confiding, or sharing the things that separate
Avoiding social connection, isolating and alone
Knowing the importance of acceptance, of belonging, of being OK
But that’s not me
And yet a survivor, others would say successful, popular, happy, capable
My stay here transient, my influence temporary
Despite this, known and dearly loved by a God who cares and longs for me to speak, trust and follow
Yes, my days do have meaning, value and worth
My struggles are not in vain and my interactions matter
Don’t underestimate the impact of your smile and a few words, that positive contact, a kindness, a vital link to inclusion and community.
Your actions and reactions have power, demonstrating God’s love
Can you accept me, respect me without judgement or expectation?
Really you can?
Then as I ponder, consider and reflect, maybe I can too.
Different yes, in fact wonderfully unique