It was wonderful to be up there, leading the liturgy yesterday morning!

I had no idea how closely folks have been watching me over these past Sunday mornings, when I've been part of the worshiping congregation. Several people told me yesterday that they've seen marked change week by week, in the way I've been carrying myself, as I've gained in strength and confidence.

I've also appreciated the words from those who have spoken words of grace, such as, "Don't try to do too much." Or, "Please take care of yourself." That is my intention! But it's something I'm learning how to do. I'm very good at keeping strong boundaries around my days off. That's healthy. But I don't know how to go less than full speed ahead every moment of every working day. So I speak grace, but I do not live it! That's something the Holy Spirit can teach me, as I continue to work through the experiences of my illness: how to be more graceful with myself.