Message from the Minister – Summer 2025

"We Are Human Beings, Not Human Doings."

Wisdom from Africa:

Ghana (Akan proverb): "The true measure of a person is not in how much they do, but in how much love and respect they give to others."

Nigeria (Yoruba proverb): "A person's true wealth is measured by the kindness they show, not by the riches they accumulate."

South Africa (Zulu proverb): "Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu", a person is a person because of others.

Dear Friends,

In a world that often values productivity and achievement above all, I invite you to pause and reflect that we are human beings, not human doings.

Your worth is not defined by your accomplishments but by your very essence--created for love, connection, and purpose. Whether you follow a faith or simply seek meaning, this truth remains: our greatest riches lie in kindness, compassion, and authenticity.

The Myth of Retirement

Many see retirement as the end of purpose, but life continues to unfold. True purpose doesn't retire--it transforms. Like rivers that flow and stars that shine, we are made to keep growing, serving, and becoming.

Consider Giuseppe, an elderly Italian furniture maker. After retiring from his craft, many assumed he would settle into quiet days. But Giuseppe had other plans. He began mentoring young apprentices, sharing his skills, wisdom, and warmth. His days are filled with joy and meaningful connection. When asked why he continued, Giuseppe replied, "I may have stopped making furniture for money, but I am still shaping lives. That is my purpose."

His story reminds us: purpose is not confined to a profession. It's found in our ongoing presence and contribution.

________________________________________

Purpose Beyond Performance

Scripture and global wisdom affirm:

• Keep moving forward with perseverance.
• Live guided by your highest calling.
• Even when careers or bodies slow, the spirit continues to soar.

A gentle reminder: You are not finished yet.

Wisdom from Around the World:

• "Movement is life." -- Moshe Feldenkrais
• "Keep doing what you love." -- Japanese wisdom
• "Life is like riding a bicycle--you must keep moving." -- Albert Einstein

A Life of Purpose, Not Performance

Scripture teaches us that life with God is a journey, not a checklist:

• "Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." -- Hebrews 12:1
• "Walk by the Spirit." -- Galatians 5:16
• "I press on toward the goal..." -- Philippians 3:14

Even when careers end and bodies slow, our calling endures.

Even when the world says, "You've done enough," God whispers, "I'm not finished with you yet."

Knowing When to Step Back, But Not Out

There comes a time to pass the baton and make space for others. But stepping back does not mean stepping away. Your presence, wisdom, and love continue to shape the rhythm of our shared journey.

Sometimes, even the best dancer must leave the stage not because the music has stopped, but to allow others to find their rhythm. Stepping back is not stepping away. Your influence remains, shaping the dance of life from the wings.


Final Word
Whatever your background or beliefs, remember we are wonderfully made, called to live fully, love deeply, and grow continually. Let us not retire from life's purpose. Keep moving. Keep growing. Keep becoming.

Enjoy the summer days.

With warm blessings,
Rev. George Quarm
(Presbyter for Merrow, Stoughton & West Horsley Methodist Churches)