REFLECTIONS FROM JANE
HOW TO DO FOR OTHERS DURING A PANDEMIC
The Korach family got together and suggested that these articles be called “Reflections from Jane.” I really liked this idea and this is what we will call them from now on! Thank you Elizabeth and Olivia and Chad!
I feel so fortunate to be a part of a mission church like the Congregational United Church of Christ. This church is in line with my ideal that the purpose of our lives is giving to others. It does not matter what our faith is – Muslim, Jewish, Christian, Hindu and on and on – all religions teach this in one way or another.
What is amazing to me about this congregation is how every one of us finds a way to give to others, no matter how old or young! The more “spry” members mow our lawn, take care of our grounds, and clean the church. Before the coronavirus hit, several of them would go downtown once a month and feed the hungry. They cook in our spacious kitchen, have fundraisers, run our rummage sale, make cranes to assist peaceful protests, by survivors/descendants of those interned here in the US in Japanese internment camps, to protest the modern-day internment camps set up along the southern US border. We have a backpack program for one of the schools in our area helping to feed food-insecure children. Actually, the CUCC family does so many projects; there are too many missions to name them all.
The less spry members are amazing too. They fold the silverware, send out cards, take the money for the fundraisers and encourage everyone – all tasks achieved by sitting instead of standing. And everyone in the church is a fabulous cook (except me!)
Each of us can find our unique mission. I learned from this church to give where I can. We can also minister to people outside of the church. Our pastor always reminds us of this. There is a sign posted when leaving the church driveway reminding us, “You are now entering the mission field.” This is more difficult to do now while sheltering in place. I figured out some different ways to achieve helping others. I have been writing a lot of cards to friends and family as well as church members. When I go to get my weekly shots at Aultman, I surprise the nurses and technicians by asking them how THEY are doing. I have learned how to use Zoom to join in meetings. I write these small reflections weekly. These are all small gestures, but still meaningful.
We seldom know how we impact others. My sweet service dog is such an inspiration. Pastor Dennis told me one time, he just feels peaceful looking at her. I realize now how important she is when I go through the drive-through at Starbucks to get Sita her “pup cup.” The staff there writes messages on my coffee cup about how they miss us! They write “We love you Sita” on her cup too! This shows me when we were going inside before the virus hit how Sita impressed them! And she does not even talk!
None of us can forget the power of prayer. My doctor has told me I have lived longer than anticipated, and I tell her that it is because of the love and support I receive from my family, friends, and church. We should continue to pray and we will all get through this – TOGETHER!