Bill shared this reflection in the Sunday Service, March 11, 2018.
My name is Bill Benshoof and my pronouns are he, him, and his.
My story is about how I have come to understand my leadership journey with the Board of Trustees.
I understand now that it was a gift to my heart and to my spirit.
I’ve learned I have the ability to return that gift to you in some surprising ways:
I can instigate contentious debates- because allowing a false impression of consensus is far more dangerous.
I can accept consequences- especially when they’re the results of action.
I can celebrate the scary questions of others- because they’re important consequences.
I can respect the learning process- especially when it looks like failure.
I can teach by example- because even if no one listens, at least the task got done.
And, the beautiful gift I see right now is- wait for it… Bright, energetic, knowing, capable, experienced, talented- YOU! A Constellation of Stars! Before, during, and after Service, Saturdays, weekdays, evenings, and from home, great things are happening, and I hope everyone can see what I see- lots of folks who have the agency and the ability to move forward- whether it is a baby step of tentative interest or a big leap of faith- and connect with their Beloved Community!
Brene’ Brown, in her book, “Daring Greatly, says “To love ourselves and support each other in the process of becoming real is perhaps the greatest single act of daring greatly.”
It’s my great hope that I will continue to hear the call of Love, and answer it with you.
Now, I can give you what I’ve found to be the most important gift of all:
I can shut up and listen.
Bill Benshoof
