Dear UUFH Family,
I see you. I hear you, and I know that for many of you this winter has been rough! You are not alone! You are held dear by this community, and I just want to remind you that growth and joy alike are possible …even in the winter.
I know late January is not exactly the time of year when one thinks about growth. Budding flowers, baby animals, and all things spring may feel far away and foreign right now. I get that, but that’s exactly why I invite you and your kids to think about growth – more specifically growth mindset.
This week I challenge you to fail. I encourage you to consider the value of your mistakes and to flex your tenacity muscles. This is the week to learn from your mistakes and lean into hope.
Parents – there’s lots to be stressed about right now but try to smile if you can. Even a fake smile produces oxytocin. Are your kids are watching? Of course, they are… they’re always watching. It’s okay to say aloud that you’re struggling but trying to smile. Singing aloud – that helps too! Acknowledging that you’re taking steps to alleviate your own stress is a great way of modeling self-care and self-regulation to your kids. They’re learning from you and will model their approach to failure during cold weather and warm weather alike based upon how they see you respond to life’s difficult moments.
Need help? Craving support? That’s okay. The UUFH community is here for you and can help you connect with professionals and community resources that can help. I don’t always get it right. And I definitely don’t have all the answers, but I’ll do my best to discreetly connect you with the people and resources that can help if you need it.
As always, please know you are loved; your children are cherished, and you are a valuable part of the UU community. After we cheer for the new members during the ceremony this Sunday, we’re going to go downstairs and play some fun, uplifting, UU-style cooperative games. It’s sure to be a hoot, a giggle, and hopefully a guffaw or two! I can’t wait to see you there!
Love,
Sunday Shae Parker
Director of Family Ministry
Here is a selection of Growth Mindset Resources that I’ve curated especially for our families: https://secure.smore.com/n/vzywr-family-ministry-news
