Over the holidays, I found myself learning from some unexpected teachers. From seasoned mentors to searching young minds, each encounter revealed a life lesson.
One of those teachers was former 6PR radio host and pastor, Graham Mabury, who shared his reflections on grief and loss through a biblical lens. Hearing him speak was overwhelming in the best way – full of wisdom, truth, and deep compassion. His words reminded me that we don’t run from pain. We meet people in it. We journey alongside them … sometimes silently.
However one of the most confronting moments came from a 10-year-old camper. Angry, hurt, and full of big questions. In one conversation, they looked at me and asked, “Why can’t I retaliate when someone hurts me?” There was no malice in their voice, just pain and a longing for justice in a world that had let them down.
I looked into their eyes and silently cried out to God, “Where are You working in their life?” It was a raw, holy moment—a reminder that sometimes all we can do is trust God and believe that healing is possible, even when we can’t see it yet.
As we begin a new term, may we be people who look deeper, listen longer, and choose to respond with grace instead of retaliation. Even in the chaos, God is working.
Suzanne Warwick
College Chaplain • Pastoral Care
