2021 Cu Lead Pre-Conference - Resolute Leadership By Brian Burns, Mojade Adejokun & Kristen Zeigler

In these tumultuous times, when everything seems to come to a standstill, it's natural to question our actions and purpose. As the world grapples with a global pandemic, political unrest, and societal issues, it's easy to find ourselves adrift in a sea of uncertainty. I mean, who hasn't spent a week binge-watching Netflix and ordering takeout, only to wonder, "What have I achieved?" But it's precisely in such moments that the importance of perseverance becomes evident.

Perseverance is about having a relentless drive to keep setting and pursuing both short-term and long-term goals. It's the unwavering commitment to stay the course and keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles that come our way.

Perseverance in Pursuit of Education

This year has presented us with a multitude of challenges, pushing many of us to reevaluate our choices and goals. The allure of taking a year off, curling up at home with Netflix, and tuning out the world can be tempting. However, for me, I realized the need to persevere in my educational journey. My calling, my dreams, and my next steps required me to stay the course.

It's a reminder that despite the allure of distractions and easy escapes, the pursuit of one's dreams demands unwavering commitment and the willingness to persevere.

Building Strong Communities: Perseverance in Relationships

Navigating this tumultuous season of pandemic and social upheaval, we've witnessed a plethora of opinions and clashes. It's easy to feel the pressure to engage in a constant battle of ideologies, but perseverance can also manifest in choosing to maintain relationships, even when we don't see eye to eye.

Perseverance in relationships means understanding that differences in opinion shouldn't lead to hatred or the inability to be friends. It means daring to be vulnerable, even with those we disagree with, and seeking safe spaces for dialogue and support. These connections help us overcome, motivate, and guide us on our journey.

Strengthening the Connection with the Divine

For many, this challenging time has also been a period of spiritual growth. We've experienced moments of feeling distant from the divine, as well as times of profound closeness. The essence of this transformation often reveals itself through our connections with others.

Just as we see in the sacred scriptures, even the divine had followers and companions, emphasizing the importance of communal living. In my own journey, I've found that my closeness to the divine has been enhanced through the relationships I've built with those around me.

The Wisdom of Perseverance for the Future

In the midst of challenging times, it's easy to feel confined and overwhelmed. However, there's an old saying that when you're squeezed or pulled, what's inside comes out. This is where the wisdom of perseverance comes into play.

Consider the importance of making your commitments, like prayer, a natural part of your life. By doing so, you ensure that when difficult times arise, your habits and priorities remain steadfast. So, for those of you who are students, now is the perfect time to make quiet moments or prayer a priority and integrate them into your daily life. The future may bring even more demanding schedules, but by establishing these practices now, you make them an integral part of your life.

In challenging moments, it's vital to remember that you're standing on something solid. And even in the midst of a world in turmoil, you can remain steadfast. Embrace the power of perseverance; it will guide you through the storm.

A Conversation on Perseverance

To further explore the concept of perseverance, I'm thrilled to introduce a friend and former colleague, Kristen Ziegler, who now works as a scenic designer for Walt Disney Imagineering in Orlando, Florida. In our conversation, she shares her insights on the importance of perseverance.

Brian: Kristen, could you tell us a bit about yourself before we delve into this topic?

Kristen: Of course, Brian. As you mentioned, I work for Walt Disney Imagineering in Orlando, Florida, and have been here for about six years. I began as an intern and am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work here full-time. I reside near Walt Disney World and have been involved in various projects, including those at both Walt Disney World and Disneyland. My most recent work is related to Disney Cruise Line. This journey has led me to this moment and to my church, Celebration Community Church in Florida, where I met my husband, Ellis. We've been married for two years, and Disney is an integral part of our lives, both in work and in serving.

Brian: Fantastic, Kristen! One of the things we'd like to discuss today, and students will hear us discuss throughout this conference, is the concept of perseverance. Now, I don't know about you, but the word "perseverance" isn't something I use in everyday conversation, so I had to look it up to remind myself. When we define "perseverance," we see it refers to someone or a group of people who have a determined purpose, without wavering and without faltering. Why is the concept of perseverance significant for you?

Kristen: Indeed, Brian, the term "perseverance" may not be part of our everyday vocabulary, but it's a concept that holds tremendous importance. When I first thought about it, I wondered, "What am I truly persevering in?" This question led me to examine my heart. Being determined is one thing, but it's crucial to be committed to the right things, as well as being unshakable in those commitments. The world we live in today is constantly changing, and things that felt certain yesterday may no longer seem so today, especially in the current world we inhabit. We all experience this to some degree.

Yet, as Christians, we build our lives on someone who is unchanging, who has a purpose for our lives, and whose character remains unwavering. That someone is God. He is our rock and our solid foundation. In my perspective, it's essential to grow in perseverance because it reflects our character and demonstrates to the world that we stand on something unshakable. Given the events happening worldwide, it's beautiful to witness students who are committed and determined to persevere in their faith. I encourage them to stay the course, regardless of the circumstances. Our God is greater than it all and will grant us the strength to endure.

Embrace Perseverance as Your Guiding Light

In times of adversity, when the world seems to constrict and test us, remember the importance of perseverance. This enduring quality, which propels you toward your goals and commitments, can make all the difference. As you face your unique challenges, be unwavering in your pursuits, maintain relationships even when they're strained, and nurture your connection with the divine. In the midst of chaos, your steadfastness will guide you through the storm and illuminate your path forward.

Kristen's insight into perseverance serves as a reminder that when the world pushes us to our limits, what truly matters will shine through. In these trying times, let the unwavering spirit of perseverance be your guiding light.