Endings are Beginnings

I sat on my second to last monthly call for a ministerial team I have participated in for nearly eight years. This time last year I announced that 2026 would be my last year. In those eight years, I have expanded my comfort zone and taken on volunteer responsibilities that I couldn’t have imagined before. I have metamorphosed.

The growth has not been linear, and it definitely has been painful at times. But I stand in awe of the ways I have changed. How my butterfly wings have emerged. I have moved from flower to flower with burgeoning ease.

This responsibility has shaped how I see myself and has granted courage and confidence. This role has become a significant part of my identity, so I have contemplated what it means for me to step away.

I have come to value when people and their projects choose to end their runs when they are still on top. When their fans still want more. Every time I hear of a show or podcast taking their leave, I admire it even when I’ll miss it. Those decisions are marks of wisdom, discernment, and choosing quality over quantity as well as wellness over profit. They are role modeling how to be brave in their endings.

In my case, stepping down gives me an opportunity to rest. It also opens the door for others to participate, to develop their own skills and talents in this space. It also makes room to encourage other leaders to emerge, serve, and thrive thus enriching the entire community.

I am ready for mental space to free up. To attend fewer evening meetings after a long day at work. For time to rest from the weight of responsibilities.

I look forward to what comes next. What new beginning will follow this ending.