I have always tended to shy away from taking myself seriously, which is why I’ve never felt comfortable being placed on a pedestal or among the company of the self-important. I know myself too well. And, no, this isn’t “imposter syndrome ¹.” I’ve actually got some good gifts to share and am willing to do so. I’m also proud of what I’ve accomplished in my life. But I know who I am and recognize my many flaws. I understand, while I am a “public figure” and a part of many teams, I am not indispensable to these communities. It is, rather, the communities which are indispensable to me.

It’s only as I work within community that I come to recognize my strengths and weaknesses. It’s within community that I’m stretched as a person. And without community I’d never be able to be a blessing to anyone. Community is, for my soul, both mirror and sandbox. It reveals who I am, and offers opportunities to explore and play and grow. I am an introvert, and I require retreat to function, but without bonds of friendship and love I’m sure I’d be miserable. Without the communities among whom I live, I’d be a shell of a human-being.