Seeds and Signs of Growth

I'm not a gardener, but I love the happy feeling that comes with observing the sprouting of seeds and the promise of growth, change and maturity. Over the past few months I have enjoyed that sense of happiness every time I have been with some of our coffeemates (mentors and mentees) together.

When I pair our coffeemates, they begin by meeting weekly during the course of the CWJC program. I don't see their initial one-on-one interaction, which is a getting acquainted, sharing something of their stories with one another. It happens on Tuesday mornings for an hour and is followed by attending the Tuesday noon lunch and Bible study together. It is an obligatory time that must become much more than that if it is to last.

Recently one set of coffeemates has been a particular reminder to me of how each developing relationship is a living example of the uniqueness in relationships. Kim and Carolyn became coffeemates when Kim entered CWJC. I don't know now what was the basis for putting them together, but I know prayer was a part of it.

Last week when I was in the hospital following surgery, Carolyn and Kim came to see me. They brought a gift of a large cookie, some ice cream and toppings. It was obviously a "doing it together" ministry on their part to me. It reminded me of when I began seeing a lovely change in their relationship that bode well for the endurance of that relatioship.

Several months ago Kim had major surgery on her shoulder. Carolyn, who is a nurse, ministered to Kim with a pot of soup, changing the dressing after Kim was home from her surgery, offering encouragement and advice and more. A short time later Carolyn injured her elbow in a bicycle accident and Kim returned Carolyn's pot with some soup she had made.

Kim and Carolyn

In times since, they have taken their dogs together to the dog park, met for lunch, and done things not only for each other, but together for others. When Kim's friend, Jennifer, a young woman with special needs, moved into an apartment and needed absolutely everything, Kim and Carolyn together presented the need to our whole group of coffeemates. Everyone pitched in and soon Jennifer's apartment was furnished.

Carolyn and Kim have a relationship that is a growing friendship. With it comes a deepening communication -- real communication that is a result of content plus relationship.