How Will You Transition...?

Another day.. another writing time in Starbucks. This time, my soundtrack is "Sons of Light and Darkness" by Helios.

There is a touchy subject that I would like to discuss. While there is a part of me that says "you have no right talking about this" (since I have not experienced it), I believe that I will in the future.

Over the last few months, our "team" of Simply Youth Ministry friends have seen many of our friends begin a season of transition. For some of us, it was unexpected and not our choice. For others, it was our choice and desire to move on.

As I read, talk with and pray for these individuals, my heart breaks. Change is never fun; it's always difficult. However, one of the biggest lessons I am walking away with is this: When I leave my current position, how will I leave? Regardless of whether or not it was my choice: How will I leave?

Will I leave with bridges burning in my wake? Or will I leave with an outpouring of love, forgiveness and support to my previous ministry?

Again, I haven't been through this. I also understand that each situation is different.
But…

For those of us working/serving in a Youth Ministry environment we are being watched. I know...it sucks sometimes. Living in a "glass fishbowl" of sorts is never fun. It's reality. If you're a "veteran," you knew this going in. If you're a "rookie," you know this now. What you say, do, and write is being watched by people.

So today, on this cold, rainy day—as I drink my Starbucks and listen to Helios—who am I going to be? Will I be a "Son of Light," walking away from my position (regardless of what may or may not have been done) with love, support, and forgiveness to the community? Will I leave my community encouraging people, loving people and honoring people?

Or will I be a "Son of Darkness," full of pride, arrogance and admitting nothing but success? Will I be able to admit where I went wrong? Will I be able to reflect where I could have done better?

My hope and prayer is that I will. My hope is that I will leave on good terms. My hope is that I will not set fire to the bridges that I have crossed, but rather, will reinforce them as I cross over.

In this time of transition that so many of us find ourselves in, choose today. Choose wisely.

Choose to love, support, encourage and forgive.