Reclaiming Identity

You have likely heard that old saying, "Of all the things I've lost, I  miss my mind the most!"  Yes!  My mind has been very scattered these last few years.  

In the twinkling of an eye, our lives can be rearranged.  An illness can bring on sudden loss; the death of a loved one changes things for us.  And retirement...it can bring on a loss of identity.  Who am I now?

For the past few years, I have deeply wrestled with the question of identity.  I retain some identity as a priest of the Episcopal Church, with the word retired following my named.  But what does that really mean?  It's not as easy to answer as it seems.  One of the myths about retirement is that it is not really a loss, but a gain.  Well...yes and no.  Grief accompanies this stage of life; most folks don't want to talk about that part of letting go.  No one really wants to talk about the loss of identity that comes with retirement.  Maybe we should talk about it; and grieve it too.

I am reclaiming some identity this year.  I am me!  Wonderfully and uniquely made--made in the image of God.  As I discover God's new call for me, I am exploring all the ways God draws me out of myself.  It's going to be an exciting year!

Blessings,

Ann+