No End in Sight

Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end.

For every beginning there is an end. Yet, also, for every end, there is a new beginning. Time honors no life by stopping to ponder its end. It continues, moves on, and opens pathways for change, healing, and new opportunities. And so it is with us—Jerry & me—as we move on from Starfish. Having witnessed its creation, having experienced every center occurrence since its inception in 1997, we have felt the weight of closure in this chapter of our lives. But this is no sad occasion; we are elated by the joy of newness all around us. And it is not goodbye, as we plan to remain part of the Starfish family in many ways, including having center staff & students regularly visit us at our new place.

Beginnings bring hope, and as the ink on this period of our lives settles, a new, unwritten chapter lies ahead. Our prayer remains the same—that God would use us mightily for His work. Whatever it may be.

So, in one sense, yes, this is an end. But in every tingling essence of the occasion, it is truly a beginning … for us and for Starfish. As excited as I am to enter this latest chapter in life, I’m almost as jazzed to see how the center will change to reflect its leaders. How the children grow, learn, and excel from the nurturing and support of Jason, Susan, Syndi, and the other loving members of Starfish who pour themselves into the youth. I am thankful to have been a part of this place, and to see its future guided by such capable stewards.

To work with children may sound easy for those who’ve never done it. But for those anointed for such precious work, it is a calling. Fulfillment outweighs challenges because, in the end, we know youth can be impacted beyond the framework of time, that souls can be touched for eternity.

As Jerry and I lay down this mantel of authority, we offer a heartfelt THANK YOU. Our lives have been enriched and forever altered because of this ministry and the amazing young people we have encountered over the years. Also, we ask that God richly bless our new beginning as well as all that is, has been, and will be at Starfish.

With all our love, April Bailey