I must confess I was deeply moved to see Lydia Ko’s emotional reaction to her gold medal achievement in Paris this month. The trickle of tears running down her right cheek made me smile as I appreciated the deep pride she must have felt to reach the pinnacle of her sport. More than that, though, I sensed she was immensely proud to represent Aotearoa New Zealand as the familiar sound of ‘God Defend New Zealand’ rang across podium and beyond.
Phil Strong
In recent news, we read of many Olympics athletes who hail from these parts, and some who used to. Whomever we laud our praise on, we demonstrate a sense of native pride.
In the Bible narrative there is a season of exile God’s people experience as a long, 70-year season. This difficult time presented many challenges but held within the struggle was also a promise of peace, prosperity and hope. Before articulation of this promise, we read an instruction that seems inherently connected and causative.
God’s people are instructed to “seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” Don’t miss the key at the end there, dear reader, for in it you will find a key for your own prosperity.
As we contribute to the welfare, well-being and fruitfulness of our community, I believe we will see a rising tide that enables others to flourish — as the saying goes, “when the tide rises, all ships in the harbour rise.” It is incumbent on us, when able, to intentionally and successfully add our strength to the people we share this land with.
How about I make you a deal? I know there are many of us who are praying to God on behalf of our region, so why not pick up the other side of the equation? Why not be one who contributes to the welfare and betterment of Waipā?
I see so many opportunities around us. In Te Awamutu, I see the potential for strengthening community through gathering around culture and food. I think lifting the main street with vision and purpose will ensure people linger, and when they linger, they ultimately spend money.
We have a rich heritage of history that can augment the native pride I spoke of earlier. Regardless of your view of the past, we can seek a way forward—together. Yes, there are parts of our story that are tragic, but the Waipā story adds to our national story, and we should tell it well.
When a region thrives, it attracts people. When people come with a desire to belong, they contribute. This leads to the prosperity of people and industry that lifts everyone.
Look at Cambridge as an example. Global success in rowing, cycling and equestrian sports has developed a thriving community and an overflow of welfare into other sectors of the community.
We should all seek the welfare of others, because in their welfare, we will find our own.
