Dear Sisters and Brothers…

Name: April Avery

Email: averysl@comcast.net

City/State: Gresham, OR

Message: Sunday October 31, 2021

Dear Sisters and Brothers, Cousins, Friends, Neighbors,

There was a time I wrote each person on my Christmas Card mailing list, a very personal note, specific to that person’s relationship with me; with words and phrases meant to impress and/or bless each person. I think it is a good intention, and I certainly meant well with it. I continue with intention in my life – my thoughts, words and deeds – but the message is changing as this person changes.

Christmas Season 2021, begins for me today. I am currently sorting through 9 large boxes and containers of CWU history that has collected in my garage. I am the designated one, having volunteered to store the information, and because I want to know, what’s it all about?

Since nominations and elections which resulted with me on the National CWU Common Council, and now on the Board, I have heard from you, listened to “how it was”, and am in awe and wonder about the women from years ago, who did real things that make this movement special.

Today, I found a certificate, announcing CWU of Portland, OR as an associate member of the Keep Christ in Christmas Committee. It is dated December 1982 and signed by Earnestine Broadaus, Chairman. This settles it for me - Christmas is all about Christ, and that’s the way I want to celebrate the season, starting now! It’s not just one day, it’s not only gifts of food and clothing, lights, music, and ceremony. With hopeful intention, peaceful inclination, loving kindness, and abundant blessings which flow from my mind, my pen, to you. IMAGINE Merry Christmas: happy, healthy, joyful, beloved, grace-abounding. Amen!

April Avery in Gresham, OR