Adjusting to the new normal: WFWP Midwest update
Editor’s Note: As our lives have been disrupted in many ways by the global pandemic, so too have numerous events planned by local or regional chapters of WFWP USA. However, that will not stop our wonderful chairwoman and regional directors from coming up with alternative and creative ways to empower, collaborate with and impact their communities in an effort to spread the culture of heart. Indeed, it is needed now more than ever. Our Midwest Regional Director Fannie Smith shares her thoughts about recent changes and expresses gratitude to local chairwomen.
Every year in spring, as I look out into my yard, I am amazed at how the weathered grass, lifeless trees, and weed-covered flower beds somehow start showing signs of life and color. I am encouraged by this natural phenomenon in nature, as it relates to the COVID-19 virus we are experiencing around the world.
As we navigate around the “new normal”, let us remember that as women and leaders it is our job to nourish and protect where possible. We become the sun, the rain, and the fertilizer that revive, restore, and transform grass, flowers, and trees into summer delights. Without knowing how long we must endure, let us help whenever possible and pray for those who are affected or have lost family members.
In lieu of the COVID-19 virus, and other circumstances related to restrictions, previous plans to host a WFWP Midwest regional “Women’s Peace, Power, and Passion Awards” event had to be changed. Instead, I am encouraging local chapters in the region to honor local women from each state. Ohio, Illinois, Tennessee, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan will nominate one or two ladies who contribute their leadership skills, knowledge, resources, time, and spiritual guidance to their community and the world. The nominees can be selected from many sectors, levels, and interests that nurture our beloved Mother Moon’s ideals and providential designs. More details to come soon.
As we are adjusting to our current reality, we have been connecting to each other and to other organizations virtually. To mention just one example of a recent networking experience, we were invited by WFWP Ohio Chair Nadya Hinson to attend the “Dignity of Women across the World’s Wisdom” webinar on March 18th, hosted by Parliament of the World’s Religions, an international interfaith organization. This webinar was part of a series on women’s history month.
Finally, I would like to acknowledge our Midwest chapter chairwomen: Michelle Lindsey (Michigan), Heidi Vetterli (Wisconsin), Friederun Abrahams (Tennessee), and Nadya Hinson (Ohio). Also, Kathryn Davis, Illinois GWPN Coordinator, Patricia Fliginger, WFWP Chicago Advisor, and Noriko Ogden, WFWP Chicago Bookkeeper.
May God Bless and Keep Us!