MOMENTS OF MEANING: TELLING STORIES OF HOW FAITH, SHAPED IN THIS COMMUNITY, HAS HELPED SOMEONE FIND MEANING IN THEIR LIFE.

Why do you do what you do? What inspires you, and what keeps you going?

I work for Robbinsdale Community Ed and primarily develop adult enrichment classes and special events.  I am also currently President of the Seven Dreams Education Foundation, which is a non-profit supporting the schools. I enjoy developing relationships and helping connect others. I am energized by building community and working with people to create something unique. I especially love the creative aspect in developing new things – I’m most proud right now of the “Who Are Our Neighbors” series which is a monthly session highlighting a different culture or group in our community. I am a “connector”.  I enjoy listening to others and finding ways to connect them with the things that I do.  It’s amazing what can come out of chance conversations. A good example is the “Songs of Hope & Freedom” event from a few years ago, that paired the Mount Olivet Chancel Choir with choirs from the schools to learn more about the history of the spirituals that we sing. I just want to be a good neighbor and encourage others to do the same.

What is hard about your life? How do you handle the tough parts?

I am now an empty nester, with all the kids working or in school.  The hardest thing is living this part of my life alone - my husband Ron died 4 years ago, and I am getting used to a new normal in my life.  Fortunately, I have a wonderful group of friends that surround me, and I joined choir at church a few years ago.  I have always loved music and just enjoy being part of that wonderful group. Giving back to the community is also important to me -  I volunteer both for the Seven Dreams Education Foundation, as well as for Blues Brews ‘n BBQ.  I thrive on keeping busy.

Where is God in your life? How does being a part of MO influence you?

My faith is what has kept me going, especially during the many years of Ron’s illness.  I am grateful that faith has been part of my life as long as I can remember. That certainly doesn’t mean that I don’t have moments of doubt, but God has held me up so many times. I have been a member at Mt Olivet for 30 years and watched the church evolve.  I really love that I clearly understand our mission, and I support the focus that we have right now on our community.  The “Who Are Our Neighbors” series that I coordinate came out of many conversations that we had here at church as well as other places.