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Egbert van der Stouw's avatar

To quote Natalie Allyn Sleeth (quoting T.S. Eliot) in her Hymn of Promise:

In our end is our beginning;

in our time, infinity;

in our doubt there is believing;

in our life, eternity.

In our death, a resurrection;

at the last, a victory,

unrevealed until is season,

something God alone can see.

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you. That is beautiful.

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Growing Through God’s Word's avatar

I had to find the hymn. It is “In the Bible there is a Flower” in Voices United 703.

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Growing Through God’s Word's avatar

I love this hymn. Such peace and promise.

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Matt Brough's avatar

Love your reflections here and I’m interested to read more about where you next writing projects take you. I’ve sometimes said I’m in state of almost constant vocational discernment. While I’ve been a pastor for over 20 years, it has taken various shapes. The latest is a recent move to .8 time in order to focus on centring more creative practice (writing, podcasting) and also doing some leadership coaching. Blessings on your next chapter.

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Karen Stiller's avatar

I like this. And good for you! I've used my imagination in new ways in the last year, to literally imagine a new work and writing practice. Darn, I wish I had said that in my post. :) Next time. I'm going to look more closely at how you do things!

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Barbara Sartorius Bjelland's avatar

Congratulations to you Karen and to all the people you bless with your writing and coaching! May the Grand Author continue to pour sweet and strong stories into your life, and guide each step of the way. You have already encouraged me so much in my writing and artwork and I know many more blessings will flow through you near and far!

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Ken Gracie's avatar

Excited for you, Karen!

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Tabitha McDuffee's avatar

Excited to see where this new chapter takes you, Karen. Praying for continued peace and discernment along the way.

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Michele Morin's avatar

Glad to hear that you are putting yourself in a position to do more beautiful writing. Your Holiness Here was one of the most influential books I read in 2024.

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Gloria Johnston's avatar

Hi Karen,

Ron and I have so appreciated getting to know you through EFC. You are going to be missed greatly by us and many other people. May God bless you in your new endeavours!

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you Gloria. I really appreciate that. I've enjoyed all my interactions with you and Ron. Peace to you.

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Margaret Wood's avatar

Godspeed, dear Karen!

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you. When I'm in Halifax next I will reach out...

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Margaret Wood's avatar

So looking forward to it!

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Ruth's avatar

You will be missed at Faith Today. I’ve especially appreciated the podcasts you have hosted. I’ve felt like I’ve had a friend on my walks as I listened to each episode.

Still, I wish you all the very best in this next stage. You were wise to follow your friend’s advice to wait to make such a big change. Look forward to hearing and seeing how God leads you as you move forward in this new direction.

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you Ruth! I know you know...

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Nicole M. Roccas's avatar

Wow, this is a big shift! Good for you. If it would be helpful to hear about someone else's coaching journey, I've been coaching writers in various capacities since 2013 and am happy to exchange thoughts over a Zoom coffee sometime.

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Oh let's do that for sure!

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Growing Through God’s Word's avatar

Karen, following your heart and passion will be a great adventure. I love, “One that I hope will be artistically adventurous, helpful, fruitful, creative, kind, productive and gentle.” Praying that you continue on this path with Jesus.

Blessings, Jan. ❤️

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you Jan. I really appreciate that.

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Growing Through God’s Word's avatar

I’m adding you to my prayer list. The road may have bumps but you have Jesus walking it with you. 🙏

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thank you for that!

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IJ Makan's avatar

Beautiful line: "I’m stepping away from something good and I’m turning toward something good." Very excited for you, Karen!

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Thanks IJ. You inspire me.

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Lindsay Callaway's avatar

May it be so ❤️

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Karen Stiller's avatar

Amen and Amen.

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