Word of the day 

This past summer, one of my kids spent a month at  Muskoka Woods’s brilliant leadership program, CEO. Leaving home for a month, especially for the first time, is hard, and it’s a bold move that requires heading into the unknown. Walking into what would become a new normal for a month took courage, tenacity, determination and grit, and this also goes for parents! Whenever we send our kids out into the world, we have to muster up just as much courage as they do, stretching ourselves to the very limits of our faith and trust. 

When my daughter went away for a month, it was another “letting go’ and ‘gentle nudge’ moment. It was not by any means my first rodeo…many a time before this I’ve sent my kids out into the world.  In fact, this was my fourth time doing it, and yet in so many ways it felt like the first. Letting go this time was saturated in just as much prayer as all those other times, and a side of anxiety as well. You would think by now that I would have it all figured out, and that these moments would be just another part of life, but that is a hard no! 

When it comes to our kids, each experience of letting go is unique, because each child is unique. Sometimes it feels like a constant dance of drawing close then letting go and feel we never get “better” at it. We simply repeat the similar emotions, anxieties and prayers each and every time one of our own flies the nest whether permanently or for a shorter season. Sending my precious daughter away for a month felt almost new, as though I had never done it before, despite the fact that I have four other kids, and we have been connected to Muskoka Woods for many years.

Mixed in with all the other emotions is a fierce pride, and all of you who have watched your kids tackle a challenge head-on can attest to this feeling. I’m so proud of her for taking that leap of faith. She rose to the challenge of exploring a variety of incredible opportunities, and out of it developed beautiful friendships that are a blessing. Along the way, she also experienced obstacles and setbacks that became a necessary part of shaping who she is, and who she will become. There is no perfect experience in the world. We all know that, but this opened up an opportunity she would never have had otherwise. The program speakers, CEO leaders and MW staff were encouraging and inspiring, which inspired her to think deeply about herself and everyone around her as she contemplated how she can become a leader in her sphere of influence today and beyond. 

 The power to speak life into someone’s world is life-changing. When I sent my daughter off to explore the unknown, I knew I would not see her for many weeks, and this impressed upon my heart a deep desire to share a word with her, or sometimes a simple phrase of the day. Over the course of the four weeks she was away, I definitely did not remain 100% consistent, but I just asked God to show me what he wanted me to say to bless her, and as always, He delivered. Now that my daughter is home again safe and sound, I feel inspired to share some of those words with all of you as well: 

Courage 

Resilience 

Valiant 

Determined 

Passionate 

Persistent 

Created 

Called 

Restored 

Loved 

Connection 

Unique 

Forgiven 

Community 

Laughter 

Prayer 

Lead 

Peace-maker 

Joy-giver 

Purpose 

Plan 

Set-apart 

 

I don’t know the full implications of this. Sharing these words is only the beginning of the road for her, for me and for all of you who are reading this. None of us know where God is leading us through them. Ultimately, only He knows, and that is enough! I love the reminder in this verse to speak well,  “A word fitly spoken  is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” (Proverbs 25:11) 

I want to challenge, inspire, and love my daughter, and I tried to do this through simple words. I pray that the impact of them and of her experiences this summer will continue to shape her mind and heart for months and years to come. Thank you Muskoka Woods, your impact continues on!

Perhaps one of your kids has moved away, and one of the only consistent communications you have is by text, email or phone. Maybe they need to hear a word, a phrase or just your voice over the phone. If you feel so inclined, you may share these words with them. Or simply be inspired to pray for God to put His own words in your heart, to radiate outwards for the ones you love. Whatever your prompting, I pray that He will lead you every step of the way.

 

 

https://www.gotquestions.org/word-fitly-spoken.html

Chris Tompkins the new CEO

CEO program 

 

                   Topics Explored

• Setting and understanding your goals
• Communicating effectively and assertively
• Determining your learning style
• Conflict management, managing-up and looking for leadership
• Self-confidence and taking initiatives
• Dreaming about your future and choosing the right career path
• Understanding your unique abilities, personality and the personality of others

(Taken from https://muskokawoods.com/ceo-leadership-program-for-teens-15-17/)

 

Faith-Based Discussions

Muskoka Woods™ is a Christian youth resort that encourages young people to explore their beliefs. Each day, CEOs will have the opportunity to participate in thought provoking conversations about faith and spirituality.

(Taken from https://muskokawoods.com/ceo-leadership-program-for-teens-15-17/)

Muskoka Woods™ is a Christian youth resort that encourages young people to explore their beliefs. Each day, CEOs will have the opportunity to participate in thought provoking conversations about faith and spirituality.