Anyone that has heard me talk about the inspiration for Elizabeth’s House over the last three years understands the title of this article. Christian or not, the story of Mary of Nazareth and her willingness to give birth to something bigger than she could name is a compelling one - compelling because as women we get it. We’ve heard our own “Gabriel” whispering the news of our greater potential, wondering how it could possibly be true, and saying yes to it even though we’re afraid. Of course a favorite part of that story for me is the part where Mary, overwhelmed as she may have been with the news, went to her cousin Elizabeth, an older woman who was also dealing with her own divine blessing. Wondering how the two women spent the three months they were together inspires all sorts of creative thought and as many know, I went so far as creating my own version of a modern-day Elizabeth’s House three years ago. What I know for sure is that as women sometimes we’re Mary; afraid of our own potential and needing wise women to guide us, and sometimes we’re Elizabeth; still full of potential ourselves but old enough and wise enough to understand a thing or two about bringing that potential forward and into the world.
So here I am having been an Elizabeth for years, a little older, a little wiser, holding space for all those Mary’s just waking up to what God really has in mind for their lives, and realizing it is my turn to be Mary – again. This time it’s different though. This time I know a lot of Elizabeth’s who will midwife new possibilities with me. I don’t have to figure it all out by myself. All I have to do is ask. OK I also have to be willing to be a little vulnerable, which is what this article is about. I’m inviting others to join me for this part of the journey in the hopes that you will see yourself in my story, and maybe even be willing to share part of yours. My request as you follow along is that you please refrain from judgment or telling me what I need to do. Trust that I will figure it out on my own. I will. I invite your thoughtful, heartfelt comments, especially if they also share a piece of your own story. Feel free to ask me lots of thought-provoking questions and let go of whether I answer them or not. I am confident that as we move forward there is much here for all of us.
P.S. I wanted to call this period of rest and reflection something. Sabbatical, retreat, time-out, and renewal period all seem appropriate but not quite accurate. However I refer to it, I'm rethinking and renewing, anticipating and excited about the inevitable changes I can feel are ahead. J
Peace,
Beth Collins
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