Linda Linton reflects on a life of caregiving

Rooted & Reaching is back, this time to highlight the work of Karuna, UUCC's team of lay pastoral caregivers, through the memories and stories of longtime member Linda Linton. 

Years ago, Linda was one of the visionaries who saw the need for a team of trained UUCC congregants who could provide care, counsel, and presence for those who need it. That's how Karuna began. 

In today's episode, Linda shares her memories of the early days of Karuna, how Karuna found its name, and when she first began to see herself as a caregiver. Linda also reads a portion of the Karuna Prayer, a beautiful text that captures the essence of what UUCC's pastoral caregiving team strives to do and become:

May you shed the foolishness in myself,
Transforming me into a conduit of Love.
May I be a medicine for the sick and weary,
Nursing their afflictions until they are cured.
May I become food and drink during time of famine,
May I protect the helpless and the poor,
May I be a lamp for those who need your Light,
May I be a bed for those who need rest,
and guide all seekers to the Other Shore.
May all find happiness through my actions,
and let no one suffer because of me.

P.S. If you've ever wondered about the difference between Karuna and the Caring Committee, this conversation is for you.