“One of the most crucial dimensions of letting go is the recognition that there is no need to change an event or person. But, we argue, shouldn’t we want to change a person who obviously needs changing? The answer is, no. We can be there, and God’s presence can be there in us and through us, and that’s all we can do. There is very little celebration and transcendence when we’re hoping to change them and “clean them up.”  I have discovered through the years that it is very heavy work to get another cleaned up. And it’s even heavier to get a community cleaned up. The task, I think, is to enjoy the other more. To experience the wonder of the person, to be more open, more attentive, to learn from the person or the community, and to revel in the surprises that are given. If the person or community changes, good! If not, you’ve celebrated who they are. You’ve lived in the Now.”

–Gordon Cosby, Sermon, March 20, 1988