“But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.” –Ephesians 4:15-16
As Debbie put out the call for Lenten devotionals, I began to think about nourishment. Images of my time in the garden, meals with family, time with friends, wonderful gooey, cheesy, spicy comfort food, cuddles with the dogs all came to mind. As I thought further, although these things can be considered nourishment of different types, they really represent comfort, belonging, and replenishment for me. Nourish is defined as “provide with the food or other substances necessary for growth, health, and good condition”. The above list does nourish me as I recenter myself in the garden, feel supported by family and friends, and food is just good always; however some of my most nourishing moments come from honest yet difficult feedback.
Throughout my life there have been those who cared enough to be honest with me, providing feedback, insight, and suggestions to make me a better person, nurse, officer, faculty. These interactions were uncomfortable, unlike my examples of nourishment above.
To not provide honest feedback is to not support another’s growth as they will never gain insight and have opportunity to learn. To nourish someone is to contribute to growth, health, and good condition physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Sometimes the pill of nourishment is hard to swallow.
So as we move to nourish ourselves and each other, remember that nourishment is sometimes not easy or comforting, but when given with love, respect, and kindness, feedback can result in the greatest growth.
May we speak and hear the truth in love. Amen.
Deb Roy