Its true. During the Youth Gathering this past July, many ELCA staff encountered Oprah at one of the hotels used for staff. Could she have stopped by the Women of the ELCA exhibit in the convention center and learned about our intergenerational words of wisdom exchange? Its doubtful, but coincidently the theme of sharing advice became the topic for the October 2012 Issue of O magazine. There is even a column titled, “Words of Wisdom” on page 18.
Although Oprah’s magazine covered the best advice about nearly everything that can improve one’s life, career, and relationships, I’d like to pass along a few kernels of wisdom that we received from women active in Women of the ELCA. Hundreds of tips about vocation, relationships, faith and misc. were shared with the youth that came to our exhibit at the Youth Gathering. Here are some memorable words:
“You don’t realize how important friends are until long, long after high school. One friend whom I had not seen in 15-20 years wrote to me and thanked me for being her friend when we were in middle and high school. So appreciated!”
–Sharon, Treasure Island, Fla., age 65
“I went to the first ALC (American Lutheran Church) Youth Convention in Miami, Ind. In 1961 or 1962 (as a chaperone). It was the most memorable gathering I have ever experienced. You will love the programs and the Bible studies. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a speaker.”
—Virginia, St. Petersburg, Fla., age 82
“Relationships—spouses, friends, partners, family—all take attention and sometimes, hard work. Be committed to care always for those in your life. We all need the love and care from those we love!”
–Jane Zobel, Indianapolis, Ind., age 56
If you didn’t get to submit some words of wisdom for our Women of the ELCA exhibit at the Youth Gathering, maybe you can collect your best advice and share it with the women of all ages in your congregation.
Elizabeth McBride is the director for intergenerational programs and editor of Café. She is always in need of good advice from other women of faith.
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