Change is difficult. And necessary. Undoubtedly you have heard each of these sayings before. They are both very true. Change IS difficult, necessary, and often the only way to ensure growth. Over the next few months, we are likely to experience dramatic change. However, let’s not let that frighten us or, worse, paralyze us into inaction. Consider another favorite phrase of mine: “April showers bring May flowers!” It may sound a bit corny, but that is how I view the inevitability of change. For, without showers, there are never any flowers. Just think about where we were a year ago at this time.

The UMCOR-Katrina Aid Today project had come to a dramatic end. Having worked on that project for over two years, I fully anticipated a continuation of that program considering where we were in the recovery process. However, if that project had not ended, MCMC would not have come into existence. At its height, KAT employed around 60 case managers in the state of Mississippi; MCMC has been able to employ over 300 total personnel! Dramatic differences … and only brought about from a difficult change in the process. KAT only had 5 affiliate organizations in the state, while MCMC has 13! Again, dramatic difference brought about only through necessary change. Now, some will say that MCMC arrived a little too late in the process, and that much more still needs to be done. I say, “Exactly!” We do have a great deal left to do and we are continually looking for new ways to secure funding and broaden our scope of service. However, in looking at the future of the recovery effort, it is evident that there will need to be change. To some, that is a frightening prospect. Change IS difficult. Sometimes dramatic change is needed to achieve dramatic results. As we go through the next few months, remember the May flowers that are created as a result of the April showers! Change is difficult, necessary and, at least to me, EXCITING!

Blessings,

Stephen