In his 1940 book You Can’t Go Home Again, Thomas Wolfe tells the story of a successful author who publishes a novel about his hometown. The local citizens sour to the author’s depiction of them and harangue him with complaints and threats. Wolfe’s book explores themes of his era – changing culture, the widening gap between rich and poor, and the passing of time.
Home, Wolfe’s main character argues, changes when we leave and gain other perspectives. Returning to an earlier place and time becomes impossible. However, we can return to a familiar place with the wisdom and experience we’ve accumulated.
About four months ago, I happened upon an article about the phenomenon of boomerang employees (workers who leave an organization for another opportunity and then return to their former workplace).
While the circumstances for each person vary widely, the return is much like a homecoming. The employees know the culture, though it has evolved. They know the organization and can mark its growth. They realize their experiences can be catalysts for continued growth.
Boomerang employees “reflect the idea that a meaningful workplace isn’t just about the work itself—it’s about the people who choose to call it home, no matter where their journeys take them,” says an HR professional quoted in the article.
The “home” they return to is not the same one they left. But it abounds with possibilities.
Same commitment, demonstrated in new ways
Fast forward to today. Since my return to the Foundation staff following 18 years in local church ministry, I have found the familiarity of the “home” I knew – same values, similar mission, same ministries.
The culture I saw taking root is now flourishing. Our ministries have grown alongside a commitment to excellence, customer service, innovation, and the pursuit of our mission to build the Church for generations to come.
I am blessed to once again be part of the Foundation team, this time with a collection of experiences and leadership lessons to guide my service. We are here to help you and your church meet its mission and vision for ministry for the sake of God’s Kingdom. I look forward to collaborating with you. It is good to be “home.”
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