Taryn Strauss

Director of Religious Education

REflections

February 2009

Last week, for the first time in my life, I darned a sock! I thought I couldn’t sew. I didn’t have the resources, or the skills. Buying new socks didn’t used to seem like a big hassle. I borrowed materials, and in five minutes, I sewed up the hole. It felt wonderful.

In the midst of this difficult economy, I see doors of opportunity open before us. In last month’s column, I offered ideas for how to celebrate a low-impact holiday, spend less, and revel in the abundance of quality time the holidays offer. As the festivities dwindle and the new year begins, we renew our search for inspiration during a time of hardship.

With more people in my community taking on additional jobs or desperately searching for new ones, it has become clear that times are hard. Yet still, I find so much opportunity. The situation calls for real and lasting change, and so many folks are answering that call. Friends of mine in their late 20s, who have spent their adult lives striving, overworking and planning, are suddenly finding themselves at peace, and happy with what they have. I am noticing a gratefulness that was not there before, a deeper sense of empathy and compassion that has replaced the consumerism and endless upward climb of our times.

Last month Mark and I brought a single question to the staff. What could we do as a church to help our community alleviate the stress, fear, and isolation of a depressed economic market in the dead of winter? Their answer was simple. We, the staff, would partner with different committees to host free, fun, community-building events at our church. We would come together, as we are, without frills or too much planning and share. We will join in potluck to share food, we will share our talents and our belongings, and we will open up and share ourselves, because this is no time for parsimony. This is the time for charity, generosity and efficiency.

I can see the positive results of all of this happening now more than ever in my life and in my community. This means the children of this era might know the value of walks to the store, clothing swaps, and handcrafts. They might know how to keep something and treasure it for as long as possible, rather throw it away when a better model comes along. We are learning to reconnect with our families, our communities, and the deep joy of a simpler life.