I remember sitting in the thick of fear and self-doubt last year during a Mustard Seed Mountain editorial meeting prior to the release of the first issue. Before the meeting started, everyone around me conversed with lightheartedness while I sat with eyes cast down, knowing that my face revealed my pain and my voice would reveal the rest. I absolutely did not want to be the center of attention. But, I was the leader, and there was no avoiding my duty to direct the meeting. So, I called for everyone’s attention and proceeded to break down in tears.

Maybe a leader shouldn’t show these emotions to avoid discouraging the team and spreading apprehension and doubt for the project, or hampering their own ability to get the job done, but I was past the point of stoic endurance. At that moment, all I could think to do was share the state of my heart and have faith that my team would catch me. And luckily, they did. They granted me the mustard seed of faith I needed to regain control of my mind, and the meeting turned out to be one of our most productive.

A lot of people have thanked me for my efforts, and it does feel nice to be recognized after the many struggles endured during the creation of Mustard Seed Mountain. There can never be enough words to express my gratitude to all who have provided their hearts, words, gifts and support to Mustard Seed Mountain, from the team at HoH-Share, Inc., to my best friends, and to the strangers who believe in this cause. Most of all, I want to thank the courageous people who’ve told us their stories. This paper would be nothing if not for the vulnerability of those who bore all for the sake of this truth: when one reveals themselves fully, we all benefit. It’s up to us to keep listening.

My term of service with HoH-Share, Inc. ended this past spring, allowing me the opportunity to venture into other creative endeavors. MSM has had to pause while seeking out someone qualified to take over the reigns. However, I will not be far from reach, remaining in an advisory capacity to help with questions and assist in the creation of future issues. And fortunately for the paper, we have found that person to help carry the mission forward.

Our new editor, Douglas Harding, carries the fiery love in his heart needed to press on with this special and much needed publication. With his background in advocacy for those experiencing homelessness and his past work of compassionate and hard-hitting storytelling, I believe Mustard Seed Mountain will continue building community, spreading empathy, and making clear why our society is broken, as well as sharing what we believe can help us deconstruct all that holds us back from building a world of peace.

Thank you for the love, and thank you for the faith.

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