From the Desk of the Director



From the Desk of the Executive Director Karis Community is an Aspen Grove Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. ~ Mother Teresa I will bet that everyone reading this article has, in recent weeks, been struck at least once with awe at the sight of Colorado's autumn pride, the brilliant gold of the Aspen trees. It is fitting that we reflect on the Aspen tree, as it is symbolic of Karis Community's mission. Traditionally, Aspen leaves represent determination and overcoming. They are strongest when they live in community, they are strong in diversity and persevere through adversity, and when circumstances look impossible, they retain hope. Aspen trees are strong because their roots spread wide and intertwine. Thus, they share strength and nourishment with one another. Isn’t that an inspiring example of community? At Karis, the community is strong because community members, staff, board of directors, volunteers and generous donors work together, intertwining efforts and sharing strengths to make a difference. It is a difference that spreads through Karis and into the larger world community. Karis Community values diversity. Everyone comes with a unique set of gifts and challenges, ages and life experience. Each community member, and I venture to say anyone involved with Karis, is enriched and stronger because of the interaction of our differences. Aspen groves are also strong because of diversity. They are healthiest, less vulnerable to disease and natural disasters, when they include trees at all levels of maturity. Aspen trees persevere through adversity. Even fire will not kill a grove of Aspens if the roots remain alive. This year Karis Community is celebrating its 35th birthday. Our roots are definitely alive despite many challenges over the years. We have a strong history and we are still growing. Perseverance through adversity is beautifully reflected in the personal stories of our community members. You will read some in this newsletter. When you do, I hope you will really take in encouragement for your own times of adversity. Aspen trees also symbolize our mission because they represent hope. The bark of the tree contains chlorophyll so that they can continue to grow in winter months. Our community members come to Karis in the winters of their lives and discover that they can grow even then. They are empowered daily to remember that pain and past adversity do not have to dictate the future. Karis Community is a place of hope and healing, especially in the winters of life. Please remember Karis as you plan your year-end giving. On behalf of the community, staff and board of directors thank you for your continued financial support that makes all this possible. Grace & Peace, E.J. Barklage Executive Director Since you get more joy out of giving joy to others, you should put a good deal of thought into the happiness that you are able to give. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt