Permanence lost

This February will be a big month for our family. Two young people commencing at new schools brings both excitement but also apprehension. Long standing friendships may come under strain as the Year 6 cohort spreads out to different high schools. The certainty of the nurturing environment of an early learning centre will be an interesting contrast to structured learning and the energy and busyness of the school playground.

Media is typically filled with stories of the loss of permanence! The trauma faced by those experiencing the worst flooding in decades; the experiences of those new to Australia after fleeing conflict or political unrest; those grieving the passing of loved ones because of illness or misadventure.

Stability and certainty are qualities we all long for. While, as adults, we intellectually understand that life’s journey brings many instances of a loss of permanence, the reality remains that such episodes in our life are confronting.

Coping with such change is a challenge for each of us! The approaches followed are as diverse as the population itself but there is a common thread – the benefits which flow from the nurture of family and/or community.

A smile, a kind word and positive eye contact; physical contact (a hand on the shoulder or even a hug); a gift from the heart (a home cooked meal or perhaps something observed to be needed but not openly sought); the support of a buddy in the playground or a mentor in the workplace.

These gifts are of immeasurable benefit to the recipient – simple and uncomplicated but offered without thought of recompense or keeping score.

Information released by the QUT’s Australian Centre for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Studies shows that on all measures, financial giving from within the Lane Cove postcode is well beyond the NSW average. Such generosity is to be applauded and encouraged but maybe the more important data is not financial but human – not from the wallet but from the heart.        

 Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (The Bible, 1 John 3:18)

The various Chaplaincy activities offer the opportunity to join in community. To find out more or if you are seeking support, please refer to www.lanecovecc.com

On behalf of the Lane Cove Chaplaincy team, I wish you a heart-filled and happy new year!
Peter and the Chaplaincy team