Rest for the Weary

Michael J. Readinger

I recently spent a long weekend with friends on the South Jersey shore. I came back tanned and re-energized from daily workouts, bike rides and time on the beach. It is amazing what that short break did for me. I hope all of you have a chance for a little mental and physical renewal before we settle into fall and winter. No matter where you are on life’s journey, a little downtime is essential to your overall mental, physical, emotional and professional health.

Another great source of renewal for the CHHSM team took place last week as staff members spent a few days at our annual retreat. We were able to get away from the daily grind and spend some quality time with each other and our member ministries. We made time to discuss our internal communication covenant, goals for the next year, short-term plans and commitments – and we found time for Sabbath. All of this led us to be more connected and in tune with each other on both a professional and personal level.

As August unfolds, I will be attending the annual meeting of the American Society of Association Executives. This will be my 10th time at this conference of leaders in the association industry. Every time I go to this meeting I return with new ideas, improved ways of accomplishing familiar tasks and a renewed energy and commitment to my purpose at CHHSM.

A task force of the CHHSM board and staff will gather for a one-day, facilitated retreat to continue the work we started in June reframing our mission, vision and values statements. We will work with OrgStory to ensure that these defining statements are in alignment with our value proposition, strategic initiatives and business practices.

Stepping back for a day to refresh the way we speak about ourselves and reacquaint ourselves with our foundational language will provide a sound platform for our future work.

By the beginning of September, I expect that the pace of business activity will increase. However, because we have taken time to center ourselves, a renewed sense of energy and purpose will inform CHHSM’s work. Fresh ideas will be transformed into action to meet our refined mission, vision and values. And the CHHSM team will move forward as an association committed to sustaining and advancing the healing ministry of its members.

Happy summer, friends!