That position would not have occurred to me

So when Five Year Old was still quite young, either a few months old or about 14 months old, I got a call from the Friend who was then serving as our meeting's clerk of nominating.

"I have two questions from Nominating Committee," she said. "First, we wanted to know if you would be willing to serve," she said, "as treasurer." There was an edge to her voice.

"That position would not have occurred to me," I said. "I don't think I can do it."

It was clear then what the edge in her voice was from: Barely suppressed laughter.

"Wait, it gets better!" she said. "Would you be willing to serve as clerk of meeting?"

We both laughed.

Even as she asked, she knew it was somewhat outlandish even to ask me to consider serving as treasurer or clerk at that point in my life.

This Friend is also the parent of two children, both in similar age brackets to my two. So she knew from her own current experience it was asking a bit much.

Anyway, fast forward to spring 2007. My boys are five and nine (as of yesterday!).

About two months ago, the current clerk of Nominating asked me if I would serve as clerk. I asked for time to consider. A couple of times on this blog, I mentioned being in a time of discernment for my meeting -- this question was the focus. Anyway, thanks to the many Friends who helped -- Robin M., Kathleen K., Stephen M., Patty M., John H., and more... It gradually became clearer, especially when Deb Fisch and Becky Phipps visited our meeting from the Traveling Ministries Program of Friends General Conference, I felt clear to say yes to the request. My name was brought forward a month ago for seasoning.

Today (5/13/07) the meeting for business approved me as clerk.

Lord, Thank you for this opportunity.
Grant me the mental acuity, the physical stamina, the emotional awareness and stability, and the spiritual strength to help the meeting in this role.
May I be of service.