November is a month of remembering for various reasons (Guy Fawkes and Bonfire Night, Armistice Day, Remembrance Sunday, etc).
It’s also the month I get to celebrate another birthday (hurrah!) and possibly the reason I become more reflective as the year begins to draw to a close and we start another.
“So don’t look back in anger…”
You may (or perhaps not) have heard of that song, sung by Liam Gallagher of Oasis (in 1995). There are many different catalysts for growth.
Some I enjoy are reflection and encouragement. As we look ahead to the start of a new chapter in life, whatever that may be. I would also encourage us to look back at the days, weeks and years. Not in anger or regret but thanks for the lessons and wisdoms we have collected – why not try journaling?
For some of us looking back may be unpleasant, so not looking back in anger may mean closure or looking forward to a reset.
Here is a word of encouragement from Hebrews 12:1-2 NRSV: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.”
May this time of reflection support your learning and growth as you forge the path ahead and run your race.
Keep going friends.
The Revd Stephen Ansa-Addo is the minister of Park United Reformed Church, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Reading
