Last weekend, I led a women’s retreat at a local congregation. The outline for the day had reflective exercises that allowed insights and directions of conversation to form in emerging ways. Borrowing some language from Fred Rogers, we did a writing exercise where we reflected on this two-part question:
“Who loved you into being, and how has that shaped your story?”
After writing the names of these loved ones and listing some of our significant moments with them, people had time to share in small groups at their tables. I sat toward the front and could take in the whole scene at once. From there, I heard this unfolding litany of names and descriptions of beloved people.
“She was always there for me.”
“He was a big influence.”
“She taught me who I wanted to be.”
“She shaped a generation.”
“I get my humor from him.”
I heard all of these sentences voiced at once, along with many significant names. A community of people was named and honored.
What a gift to see and hear that unfold.
—Renee Roederer
Smuggling Grace 