‘Transition’ (according to the Collins Dictionary) ‘...a linking passage between 2 divisions in a composition...a bridge...’

Just the other day I was reading an article about hiking in the Himalaya. I was a bit sad to read that most of the old swing bridges made by the Sherpas are now being replaced by more comfortable, more reliable bridges to suit the many tourists trekking in the area. Not that I’m endorsing the use of unreliable or dangerous facilities in the outdoors, we all know the importance of OSH regulations and health and safety guidelines in youthwork these days don’t we?! But as I read about the replacement of these old bridges, I realised that to me bridges are meant to involve risk! They are meant to involve a bit of fear! There is nothing like the feeling of standing on a skinny swing bridge, looking down into a raging river below and knowing that at that moment we are at our most vulnerable. I wouldn’t want to make that experience comfortable even if I could. To me, this analogy sums up what Mr Collins knew all long - times of transition are just like bridges. They can be scary, they can be risky. They often make us feel vulnerable... but the coolest thing is that they are meant to! So we should relish the experience while it lasts, trust that God is with us at our most vulnerable if we look for Him and hope that He will lead us to a safer place on the other side!

This is the last time you’ll hear from Monica in this column. Mon’s had a big year as PYM intern 2005. We’re going to miss her HEAPS as she ‘moves on’ and wish her every blessings for the next road ahead.