I don't know that we have ever run a reader letter here, but the story in this email and the writer's comments deserve a wider audience.
The letter is from Barbara Lane at Telesystem in Northwood, OH. She wrote in response to Emma Alvarez Gibson's post-election reflection. What Barbara relates is another helpful part of the reflection and need to move forward that is the air right now:
Mike and team,
First, I want to say thanks for your blog and plethora of articles on strategic planning. I have used many of your techniques both at work and as I facilitate visioning and strategic planning at my church.
With regards to the email today, I am currently in the middle of leading a Bible study based on the book, “Fear of the Other” by Will Willimon. In it, he puts forth many of the same ideas contained in Emma Gibson’s reminder. But one that particularly spoke to me was an exchange between Frederick Douglass and Sojourner Truth. Douglass was bemoaning the plight of black slaves and the country’s reluctance for - no, outright anger and indignation against - the proposition of freedom for them. Truth, who was fully aware of Douglass’ Christian beliefs asked him, “Frederick, is God dead?”
I think this is very pertinent to what many people are feeling today, and we have to realize that there is a greater power out there who works all things according to his purpose.
BTW – if you haven’t read the book, I highly recommend it.
I greatly appreciate you and your efforts,
Barb
