I believe that everything in life needs stewardship.  The environment, the economy, the community, the thousands of priorities within our community.  Nothing can survive without stewardship.  We are not spectators in life; we are participants. 

When I was 19 years old, I was asked to lead the youth group at my church, West Vancouver United.   I didn’t have the skills, the knowledge or the training for the job, but I agreed to do it anyway.   With a small group of other leaders, we planned weekly lessons and social events and music for a group of at least 30 participants.  I continued in this role for about five years.  It was a very exciting time in my life.   A lot was going on, but nothing was more important than that!  I then adapted these skills to teaching sailing, and then to teaching music, and then to everything else.  It served me well.

I didn’t realise it at the time, but I now realise that I have benefitted from many stewards in my life; from my parents to my colleagues, to members of my church and community.  (I will gladly give you names if you want to know.)  To them all, I want to say, “thank you”.   

Nothing exists for long without support.  Time, expertise, kindness, financial support - these are all forms of stewardship, and I believe they are all essential to success.  I have never regretted my decision to say yes when given the opportunity to give.  Let’s all support the things we really value.

“In the bulb, there is a flower, in the seed an apple tree. 

In cocoons, a hidden promise, butterflies will soon be free. “

  • Ian Brown