Exit Strategy

I've been thinking a lot recently about leaving things behind. This is due to the fact that in a couple of weeks, I will be moving from the idyllic English countryside to the urban sprawl of a housing estate in Oldham. I'm going to join one of the 10 Eden projects in Greater Manchester, working amongst local communities and with young people to bring about God things in their lives.

This does however mean that I am leaving my current situation, my securities and my home, not to mention many good friends. The act of leaving brings about strange thoughts, feelings and ideas for the leaver. At the moment there is a wierd sense of suspension, as if in limbo, waiting for the next part of life to begin. It is as if, having been cut off from the past and like a canonball, I am waiting eagerly to be fired at high speed into the next adventure, the next voyage of discovery, full of resistance and obstacles but doubtless also enjoyment and vibrancy.

Over the last few weeks, I have been struck by the words "Exit Strategy" - as whenever we leave something, we want to leave well, with a carefully executed strategy which enables us not to linger around for too long, nor to leave too quickly - a leaving that strikes the perfect balance of excitement and disappointment - longing and grieving. I wonder whether you have ever thought about your exit strategy? Myself? I think I know how creation feels...