“We’re in a marathon, not a sprint. What you do today, how you care for your neighbors and your loved ones will shape the future.” – Dr. Sanjay Gupta

I heard this line on a podcast, reflecting on the loss we’ve faced and the loss yet to come.

Emily and I were reflecting the other day about the first time we were asked how Covid-19 would affect Ferncliff. About the early suggestion to buy contact-less thermometers we got. About the way we thought it was an overreaction at the time and how much has changed since then. It’s been 6 months since that day. Almost 7. And we live in a new world, where Covid-19 is a constant deadly reality, our faces are masked, the tension is high, and the end is not yet in sight.

This summer we found new ways to do ministry – through boxes mailed around the country and through super small groups playing socially distanced games. We hosted a skeleton crew of dedicated summer staff who worked miracles. We took the opportunity to complete a ton of maintenance projects. We kept the place going.

This fall, Nature Preschool started up in a totally different space, allowing classes to stay separate and independent. We started LearnCliff – a program for elementary students choosing virtual learning, getting them some time outside and with others. The sound of kids playing every day is like music to our ears. We’re so grateful for the families taking the temperature checks in stride, and bearing with us as we figure out how to best serve their children. We’re open for retreat guests and small groups, hoping our space allows for the distance we all need to see each other face to face. We’re making Advent-In-A-Box to support families and churches through what promises to be a very different holiday season.

And sometimes it all feels like too much. And sometimes not enough.

We, as a country and as a world, are exhausted. This fight against an invisible enemy is draining. It’s been going on for so long we can barely remember what it was like when we would shake hands with a stranger or give a hug to someone we hadn’t seen in a while. The things that bring us life have been canceled, rescheduled, or moved onto zoom. The people we see stay 6ft away as we both try to keep the other healthy.

And it’s not over yet. The road stretches on ahead and the twists and turns prevent us from seeing the finish line.

So, for now, let’s focus on the journey. What keeps you running the marathon? Do you need a water break? What will boost your energy for the next mile, the next month, ahead? Can you hear the cheering fans encouraging along the way?

If you need a break – give us a call at Ferncliff. We’d love to have you, your family, or a small group of folks utilize the outdoor space we have. We’re running this marathon too, right next to you, and we’re happy to cheer you on.