As you read this message, I will likely be in the midst of my vocal cord
procedure, or recovering from it. I appreciate your prayers for a
successful outcome with my voice being stronger and my Sunday
speaking easier.
When I looked back at my medical records today, I realized I’ve been
dealing with this situation for the past five years. (To be honest, I
knew it had been awhile, but I was surprised that it’s been that long.)
Of course, back in 2020, we were also dealing with COVID – and all
the changes and challenges and lessons it brought.
When I first learned that my left vocal cord had become frozen,
causing my difficulty speaking, I wondered if I would be able to
continue doing Sunday lessons – or if this was a sign that my ministry
service needed to change or end.
I went into prayer. The doctor suggested that it might heal on its own
over time – or remain a chronic condition that could be partially
treated with injections (annually or so) to “pump up” the frozen cord,
making it easier for the right cord to continue to function.
I thought of Diane Rehm, the well-known journalist and NPR talk
show host who had a very distinctive voice that indicated some kind of
speech malady that left her “with a very low, very gravelly rumbly”
voice. (She was diagnosed in 1998 with spasmodic dysphonia, after
leaving broadcasting for a period of time, unable to speak.)
With the diagnosis and treatment (that can help but not cure the
neurological condition), she wrote a book entitled, “Finding My Voice”
in 1999, and returned to broadcasting. She retired, at the age of 80,
after the 2016 elections, having spent 37 years with NPR.
I prayerfully concluded that I would continue to use whatever voice I
had for as long as I had something meaningful to say, trusting that
this loving community would be there to support me in this journey.
I also, however, began to more intentionally seek and listen to my
divine guidance about what is mine to do. It was not lost on me that
the timing of my voice issues aligned with Michelle’s ordination, my
70 th birthday, and soon after that the births of Rory Rose – and then
Lennon – and then Maddi (and maybe one more to come?) allowing
me the joy of local grandchildren to spend meaningful time with.
I feel so blessed to share this ministry now with Michelle…and have
the freedom to choose how this chapter of my life will unfold. I’m sure
you’ve all noticed that Michelle has stepped into being our primary
Sunday speaker (and doing it brilliantly, I might add). It is a joy to
watch her step fully into her own voice and ministry. That said, I look
forward to many more years of ministry with all of you in whatever
capacity is appropriate and joyous.
Love and Blessings,
Rev. Vicky
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