Blooming Where You’re Planted

March 2023

“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.” — Isaiah 61:3

As a reader, you might assume this writer is referring to the coming of Spring. That wouldn’t be a stretch. Spring is right around the corner, and we often use metaphor in these monthly missives to help illustrate our thoughts and provide meaning.

As an organization, we are no stranger to challenges, just by virtue of the work we do. Think about it: working in hospice is a willingness to enter a short-term relationship with patients and families. We know that our role is to comfort, guide, support, and provide ministry, in the truest sense of the word, for a brief time. We accept that challenge, and even embrace it, as part of our calling, as part of the root of our blooming where we are planted.

The past month or so has been challenging on a whole new level for Arkansas Hospice.  WE are not a short-term relationship. Some of us have worked together for years, while others may be “newcomers” in theory, but not in spirit and heart. Over time, we have mourned for many reasons, and do so now for the difficulties that have resulted in layoffs and a site closing. A myriad of feelings is to be expected, sadness, guilt, anger, relief, or confusion. We encourage you to honor all that you are feeling. Even when something is for the greater good, we may still grieve. Just as a tree is pruned to ensure healthier growth, our hearts still hurt.

We firmly believe that grieving happens as it should, when it should, for as long as needed. We also know that it softens over time and that reinvestment and reengagement in things that matter begins. Hopefulness and meaning return, often with a depth and appreciation we didn’t think possible. This is when we realize we are standing on holy ground, ready for all that is good to be revealed. Beauty from ashes or a phoenix rising from the fire are powerful images to illustrate what we know is the sacred task of continuing to honor the mission of Michael Aureli, every single day.

I challenge you to not only consider that you are blooming where you are planted, but to embrace why, and how. It is no mistake that YOU are part of the resiliency that is Arkansas Hospice.

Let us heal, and rise, together.

Be Well …

Arkansas Hospice Employee Wellness Council (EWC) Keeping you Well – Mind, Body, & Spirit

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