Graduation

"Fifth Grade Graduation." I stopped as I looked at the words I had typed into my phone calendar and sent in an invitation to my husband for next year. I couldn't help feeling a little emotional as I considered what I'd written. Even though it hasn't happened yet, I'm beginning to mourn the end of this current season with our son in elementary school. Of course I want our son to grow and fulfill his God-given purpose in the world. But as I look at the lovely times we've had with him from infancy through now, I am honestly sad to say goodbye to this stage.

Isn't that how it is for us professionally sometimes? In our hearts and minds, we know we've "graduated" from our current employer/team/position and yet we want to linger beyond our season. We focus on the amazing opportunities and accomplishments we've had, the exposure we've received, the work environment and conditions we've enjoyed, and the deep connection we feel with our colleagues and those we serve. When we do this it becomes very easy to overstay...until it's not.

Unlike school, beyond retirement and promotions, work often does not give us explicit milestones to indicate we've graduated from one season to another. We have to take our cues from restlessness, opposition and toxicity in some unfortunate instances, or our inner knowing that we're just not in the right place anymore. As I pondered a personal bittersweet transition of my own, I described it as a favorite outfit that no longer fit. As much as I wanted to keep wearing it, I couldn't because the season for me to wear that outfit had passed.

Are you facing a seasonal shift of your own? What are the cues that life has been giving you? Remember to celebrate what you've loved about this season and even mourn the ending of what you've loved. And then stay curious and open to what's next.

As always, I wish you strength and clarity for the journey.

Warmly,

Renée