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October Newsletter

 SHANNON’S CORNER

Connect. Nurture. Grow.


Making space for the stories people have.  Over the past month, I have continued providing online debrief care for ministry workers and families in different parts of the world.  Some individuals and couples began and completed their debriefing process this month, while others are still in the process of working through their experiences.  Each person's story is unique, and the time needed to reflect, process, and make sense of those experiences varies.  Through these online conversations, I am reminded that even across geographical distances, we can create a safe space for people to share openly, explore their emotions, and give voice to the hard things they may have been carrying.

One of the meaningful aspects of debriefing is helping people recognize the many layers surrounding an experience or loss.  Sometimes, we carry the weight of a situation without fully realizing how much is connected to it—the relationships, expectations, disappointments, unanswered questions, and changes in our sense of identity or belonging.  As one person reflected, “I didn't realize all that surrounds this loss.  No wonder it feels weighty.”  Having the opportunity to slow down and explore these layers can help people better understand what they are experiencing and begin to identify what they need as they move forward.

I am also deeply encouraged by the gratitude people express for having this space.  One person shared, “Thank you for giving of your time, as this has been so life-giving.”  These words remind me that providing care is not always about having answers or finding solutions.  Sometimes, it is about being present, listening without judgment, asking thoughtful questions, and allowing someone the time and space to process their story.  I am grateful to be able to walk alongside people in this way, and I am equally grateful to you, my supporters, whose prayers and generosity help make this care possible.

One meaningful part of my Member Care work this month has been reconnecting with people I have debriefed in the past.  These follow-up conversations create space for individuals and families to process what has been happening since our previous time together, reflect on new experiences, and explore what may be surfacing as they continue navigating their transitions.  Sometimes, things that were difficult to articulate during the initial debrief become clearer with time, while new questions, emotions, or challenges emerge along the way.

Transitions are ongoing processes, and the need for care doesn't necessarily end after one debrief.  Reconnecting allows me to continue walking alongside people as they make sense of their experiences, recognize what they need, and consider their next steps.  I am grateful for the opportunity to provide this continued support and to remind them that they don't have to process everything alone.

TCK Connect continues to be a place for Third Culture Kids to build friendships, have fun, and connect with others who understand the unique experiences of growing up across cultures.  This past month, we enjoyed playing games together, shared a Chai Chat exploring different aspects of living a TCK life, and spent time in small groups sharing about our weeks.  These moments provide opportunities to laugh, learn from one another, share everyday experiences, and talk about some of the joys and challenges of TCK life.  My hope is that TCK Connect continues to nurture meaningful relationships and create a sense of belonging where young people feel seen, heard, and understood.

Life Transition Coaching continues to provide opportunities to walk alongside clients as they navigate different seasons of life.  One client is preparing for a move, which brings its own mix of decisions, responsibilities, and uncertainties.  Another client’s life is often in constant flux, with changing circumstances, shifting priorities, and unexpected demands that can leave her feeling overwhelmed.  During times like these, creating systems and establishing routines can help bring a sense of order to the chaos.  Through coaching, we explore practical ways to navigate the moving pieces of life while making room for flexibility, rest, and growth along the way.

As the year draws to a close, I am preparing for my end-of-year giving campaign.  This is an opportunity to reflect on the ways God has been at work through Member Care and Life Transition Coaching and to invite you to partner with me in continuing this ministry in the coming year.  Your prayers, encouragement, and financial support make it possible to walk alongside ministry workers, families, and Third Culture Kids as they navigate transitions, process difficult experiences, and find space to reflect and grow.  I look forward to sharing more about the impact of this ministry and the ongoing needs as we approach the end of the year.

I am also preparing for an online Advent mini-retreat titled “Who Are You Looking For?” This contemplative retreat will invite us to pause amid the busyness of the Christmas season as we consider Jesus' question: Who are you looking for?  My hope is to create space for you to gather, connect with Jesus, and prepare your heart for Christmas.  Stay tuned for more information in the weeks to follow.

PRAYER REQUESTS

Praise the Lord for being able to renew my nursing license!

Praise the Lord for spending time with nephew and niece!

Praise the Lord for the online debrief care of an individual serving in Armenia!

Praise the Lord for the continued debrief of a missionary serving in Honduras!

Praise the Lord for the continued debrief for a young couple who finished serving as pastors in a church!

Praise the Lord for continuing debrief care with a missionary re-entering the UK!

Praise the Lord for the continued debrief of a couple who finished with a summer camp ministry on the West Coast!

Praise the Lord for debriefing an individual who serves in ministry here in PA!

Pray for TCK Connect Friday mornings and afternoons.

Pray for speaking engagement at Faith Fellowship Church Nov. 15th.

Pray for online debrief with an individual in Florida Nov. 2nd-4th.

Pray for continued debrief with a missionary serving in Honduras Dec. 5th.

Pray for online debrief with a couple who finished serving as pastors in a church Oct. 29th.

Pray for continued debrief with a couple who finished serving with a summer camp Nov. 9th.

Pray for the individual in-person debrief Nov. 17th-19th in PA.

Pray for connection, wisdom, & discernment when meeting with people for care.

Pray for the year-end giving campaign.

Contact Information:

Donate Online! (Follow the prompts) 
www.WorldOutreach.org/783

 

Mail Checks:

  World Outreach Ministries, Inc.

  P.O. Box B

  Marietta, GA  30061

  (Make a check out to WOM & in memo or in a note write Shannon Eaton #783)

 

Bill Pay:  free option via your online banking

  (Use the same information for checks)

 

Shannon Eaton

107 Old York Rd Apt 5

New Cumberland, PA 17070

(724) 967-1437


Email:  shannon.eaton76@gmail.com

Coaching:  lifetransitioncoaching.shannon@gmail.com

FaceBook:  fb.com/shannonreaton

Instagram:  instagram.com/shangirl94





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