Begin It!

Concerning all acts of initiative and creation, there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings and material assistance which no one could have dreamed would have come their way.  I learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets: Whatever you can do, or dream you can do, begin it.  Boldness has genius, power, and magic in it.–W.H. Murray

In 2011, a companion in mission introduced this quote to me just before I lived and worked alongside a women’s artisan cooperative in Bolivia for 3.5 years. The quote continues to inspire me!  In my experience, it does not promise an easy path, but a meaningful, God-filled, abundant path? ABSOLUTLEY!

With centering neighborhood voice through community leader interviews and listening sessions among neighborhood immigrant parents and adult learners, we committed to an action plan in 2022. Some transitions ensued while moving forward into an uncertain future and shifting landscape in our immigrant Roslindale neighborhood. We prioritized emerging needs more fully, in faith and in practice.

Unforeseen, a neighborhood partner let us know about a grant opportunity from First Literacy, so we were able to offer a workshop on housing rights and develop English lesson plans on housing, worker rights, and mental health. At the same time of these initial steps, the City of Boston Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Advancement and Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital were also prioritizing mental health and other needs with their “Weaving Wellbeing” and “Community Health Impact” funds. Given our initial steps, longstanding connective role with immigrants, and collaboration with partners, Casserly House was awarded material assistance that I could not have dreamed.

“Every story unique” is only one example of the abundant fruit of this pathway, now more important than ever for our immigrant neighborhood. Convening community leaders in support of immigrants required 15 meetings and more conversation; relationships with our neighbors strengthened and the response was amazing! GRMDC and Casserly House are new collaborative partners, with one of the GRMDC staff noting that we share a desire to “build a culture of compassion and empathy.” I will add “of love of neighbor.” The path will unfold: ”Know Your Rights” information is being distributed and another workshop for immigrants is planned. A stream of events are forthcoming.  So, whatever acts of initiative or creativity you desire, begin It!