Reshaped

Reshaped became an important word in the title as I typed my last words of the manuscript. I had other titles floating in my head, but it wasn't until that last page was being formulated when it hit me like a lightning bolt: I've been reshaped by each and every experience in life. It was my "aha" moment.

The events of my father's death when I was two years old, a sexual assault at eleven years old, and the death of my son when he was just thirty-nine could have left me deeply scarred and damaged. There are scars, and there certainly will be residual damage forever, but events such as these thrust me into a journey of faith that I shared with others. Faith is about accompanying others along the highs and lows of everyday life.

We all have uncommon journeys. My journey is not a blueprint to follow. The journey featured bumpy roads, hilly terrain, some dead ends, and some wonderful stops along the way. Many of us have these common elements on life's highway. Many of us rebound quickly from loss and hurt and pain. Others turn away from the bumps and the dead ends. Some miss out on the beauty of everyday encounters with the people of God.

Reshaped is intended to reach the silent victims who remain breathing yet live in the shadows of everyday life. Reshaped is intended to speak to parish and church leaders everywhere not only to applaud them for their current efforts but also to invite them to remain vigilant always as the problem is not gone.

Be aware always of the harm done. Be diligent to protect children, adolescents, the elderly, and all under our care always.