My prayer today is: Thank You, God! Thank You, God! Thank You, God! I guess it’s an affirmation as well.
I’m grateful that I feel I made some progress in my daily practice of sitting in the Silence, of quieting the mind. I actually was able to focus mainly on my breath for a great portion of the ½ hour. And by focusing on the breath, one can only be in the present moment, in the Now. That is where Consciousness resides, that is where The Presence can be felt. When I did find myself back in the chatter of the little Me, I was inspired to chant Thank You, God! Thank You, God! Thank You, God! and get back to the breath, to the Now.
I’m grateful that I finally got back to my morning stretches. Ever since we moved to Sedona 7+ months ago, those had gone by the wayside. My morning schedule wasn’t so open any more, the floors are Saltillo tile (beautiful - and hard), and I don’t have my own private space where I can stretch to soothing music; challenges no doubt, but not roadblocks if I am willing and open to change. I finally became willing enough.
So this morning I am b-r-e-a-t-h-i-n-g deeply and I am feeling more conscious and more healthy in body, mind, and spirit. It feels great!
Thank You, God! Thank You, God! Thank You, God!
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label prayer. Show all posts
Monday, June 21, 2010
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remembrance
Today’s Daily Word acknowledges Memorial Day, a U.S. holiday. But, interestingly, it goes beyond remembering the men and women who gave their lives in our nation’s service. Here it is in its entirety:
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remember
I lovingly remember others.
Remembering those who have given their lives in service, I reflect upon their sacrifice. I learn from the lessons they taught and from their accomplishments. I also remember the people who have made a meaningful contribution in my life. Because of them I have learned to live more fully.
Just as I build upon the acts and achievements of those who have gone before me, others may build upon my life's example. As I remember others today, others may remember me in the future.
Today I take a few moments to appreciate those who taught me by example, to honor those who showed me the way. Their love and their willingness have changed my life for the better, and I am grateful.
When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God. - Philemon 1:4
It’s interesting that during this morning’s quiet time I listened to a meditative, subliminal CD about forgiveness and peace of mind. Several people from the past came into my consciousness. They were folks who I’d been close to for many years but am no longer in touch with. While we’ve chosen to not be in one another’s lives these days, I remember them with love for making my life richer. They helped me become who I am today. I have much gratitude for them - their love, their patience, their wisdom.
There are so many others I remember and for whom I am grateful: School teachers, relatives, employers, co-workers, those who came before me in the 12 Step program, other spiritual mentors, and of course, friends and my beloved life partner and husband, Roger Wyer. All have blessed me with their presence in my life - even if sometimes I hadn’t a clue!
Thank You, Spirit, for all those I’ve met on this journey called Life. Bless them, bless them, bless them.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remember
I lovingly remember others.
Remembering those who have given their lives in service, I reflect upon their sacrifice. I learn from the lessons they taught and from their accomplishments. I also remember the people who have made a meaningful contribution in my life. Because of them I have learned to live more fully.
Just as I build upon the acts and achievements of those who have gone before me, others may build upon my life's example. As I remember others today, others may remember me in the future.
Today I take a few moments to appreciate those who taught me by example, to honor those who showed me the way. Their love and their willingness have changed my life for the better, and I am grateful.
When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God. - Philemon 1:4
It’s interesting that during this morning’s quiet time I listened to a meditative, subliminal CD about forgiveness and peace of mind. Several people from the past came into my consciousness. They were folks who I’d been close to for many years but am no longer in touch with. While we’ve chosen to not be in one another’s lives these days, I remember them with love for making my life richer. They helped me become who I am today. I have much gratitude for them - their love, their patience, their wisdom.
There are so many others I remember and for whom I am grateful: School teachers, relatives, employers, co-workers, those who came before me in the 12 Step program, other spiritual mentors, and of course, friends and my beloved life partner and husband, Roger Wyer. All have blessed me with their presence in my life - even if sometimes I hadn’t a clue!
Thank You, Spirit, for all those I’ve met on this journey called Life. Bless them, bless them, bless them.
Sunday, May 30, 2010
God and Your Vehicle
Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire? - Corrie Ten Boom
It’s interesting that this quote popped up this week (although I just read it now). On Friday morning, Rog spied a flat tire on his truck that was gratefully sitting in our driveway. And, I learned yesterday that my dear friend Samara, who for business reasons has temporarily traded her life in peaceful Kauai for the city of Miami, had an angry driver slash three tires on her vehicle.
So this quote piqued my interest; I think it is good food for thought...
Do I connect with Spirit for help with my vehicle - my life - just as rarely as when my automobile needs a spare tire? Or, do I let God guide me as I regularly walk through this life and this crazy world?
Prayer is always available to connect us with our Source. It is talking to The Presence, it’s a feeling, it’s an attitude, it’s a thankfulness.
I’m grateful my car rarely requires the spare tire to be used and I’m grateful for letting go and letting God steer my life.
It’s interesting that this quote popped up this week (although I just read it now). On Friday morning, Rog spied a flat tire on his truck that was gratefully sitting in our driveway. And, I learned yesterday that my dear friend Samara, who for business reasons has temporarily traded her life in peaceful Kauai for the city of Miami, had an angry driver slash three tires on her vehicle.
So this quote piqued my interest; I think it is good food for thought...
Do I connect with Spirit for help with my vehicle - my life - just as rarely as when my automobile needs a spare tire? Or, do I let God guide me as I regularly walk through this life and this crazy world?
Prayer is always available to connect us with our Source. It is talking to The Presence, it’s a feeling, it’s an attitude, it’s a thankfulness.
I’m grateful my car rarely requires the spare tire to be used and I’m grateful for letting go and letting God steer my life.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
We're in This Together
Whether I am being paid $15/hour or $50/hour, or I am “volunteering” my time, my desire is always to be in a helping mode. I can’t say that I always behave in that manner.
I found myself yesterday thinking in terms of money and disturbance when called ‘off hours’ to help a client of a client. Gratefully, my conscience quickly got me to want to help this person even though it “wasn’t my job.” After this decision was made, it turned out the person was able to solve the problem herself. Ya think my decision influenced the Universe?... Perhaps.
Wouldn’t it be nice if each of us knew, really knew, that there’d always be help available? And, when we gave assistance, we’d get ‘paid’ with knowing we’d receive help too whenever we needed it? ...that we were never alone? Of course, Spirit is always with us to guide and help, but often we need a real, live human being to carry out the work.
The current money economy is such a separator of people, to one another, to themselves, to God. Well, that’s changing and I’m so glad. A new earth is coming where people live from the heart, in community, bartering and helping one another in all aspects of life.
My prayer is to continue opening my heart in service to others. We are all part of The One, giving and receiving. What I give returns to me, returns to us. Let I not build barriers to healing the separation, but be part of the solution to our return to Oneness.
I found myself yesterday thinking in terms of money and disturbance when called ‘off hours’ to help a client of a client. Gratefully, my conscience quickly got me to want to help this person even though it “wasn’t my job.” After this decision was made, it turned out the person was able to solve the problem herself. Ya think my decision influenced the Universe?... Perhaps.
Wouldn’t it be nice if each of us knew, really knew, that there’d always be help available? And, when we gave assistance, we’d get ‘paid’ with knowing we’d receive help too whenever we needed it? ...that we were never alone? Of course, Spirit is always with us to guide and help, but often we need a real, live human being to carry out the work.
The current money economy is such a separator of people, to one another, to themselves, to God. Well, that’s changing and I’m so glad. A new earth is coming where people live from the heart, in community, bartering and helping one another in all aspects of life.
My prayer is to continue opening my heart in service to others. We are all part of The One, giving and receiving. What I give returns to me, returns to us. Let I not build barriers to healing the separation, but be part of the solution to our return to Oneness.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Who I Am
I’m aware that more and more I am exercising my right to choose, to change my mind, to be and act more consciously from a higher ground. I’m stepping more and more into who I truly am.
Recently, some requirements of the volunteer work I was thinking of doing came to light and I found myself having a charge around them. After a bit of soul searching, I realized that, while the organization was doing meaningful, wonderful work for its clients, I could not be a part of it because of some philosophical differences.
Now I’d have to tell the volunteer coordinator. Oh. I’d have to stick to my truth, be diplomatic, and not feel like I’d killed someone because I’d changed my mind - even though I’d not even filled out an application yet!
When this person returned my phone call, I took a deep breath, said a very quick prayer, and took the call. I was diplomatic, focused, and complimentary. I blamed no one and offered encouragement. I stood in my truth, confident with God.
There are other places where I can serve and not have to sacrifice my integrity. I’m sticking with those. I’m standing my ground, open to God’s will for me.
It feels good to say “no” in whatever form it may take, instead of trying to people please and hurting everyone in the process anyway. With Spirit an integral part of me, I can be and act - and serve- as the holy child of God I truly am.
Recently, some requirements of the volunteer work I was thinking of doing came to light and I found myself having a charge around them. After a bit of soul searching, I realized that, while the organization was doing meaningful, wonderful work for its clients, I could not be a part of it because of some philosophical differences.
Now I’d have to tell the volunteer coordinator. Oh. I’d have to stick to my truth, be diplomatic, and not feel like I’d killed someone because I’d changed my mind - even though I’d not even filled out an application yet!
When this person returned my phone call, I took a deep breath, said a very quick prayer, and took the call. I was diplomatic, focused, and complimentary. I blamed no one and offered encouragement. I stood in my truth, confident with God.
There are other places where I can serve and not have to sacrifice my integrity. I’m sticking with those. I’m standing my ground, open to God’s will for me.
It feels good to say “no” in whatever form it may take, instead of trying to people please and hurting everyone in the process anyway. With Spirit an integral part of me, I can be and act - and serve- as the holy child of God I truly am.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Recipe
Yesterday was another, rich, abundant day.
Reviewing it - and others - it becomes clear what ingredients are needed for me to make a fulfilling day. It is a very rich recipe for a joyful life.
- Start the day in quiet time with Spirit
- Read inspirational literature in the morning
- Blog about spirituality
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our morning ‘coffee vacation’
- Help others in computer-related projects
- Be open to service opportunities in the moment
- Examine my behaviors, thoughts, and feelings
- Connect with Spirit throughout the course of the day
- Take care of my physical and mental bodies
- Listen to music
- Shine my light wherever I am, whoever I am with
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our afternoon ‘coffee vacation’
- Breathe deeply
- Take a walk
- Take time to pause
- Spend time with my Unity of Sedona family either in a seminar, at choir rehearsal, or otherwise
- Read spiritual literature in the evening
- Go to bed at night, snuggling up to Rog and thanking God for all the blessings and abundance in my life.
Reviewing it - and others - it becomes clear what ingredients are needed for me to make a fulfilling day. It is a very rich recipe for a joyful life.
- Start the day in quiet time with Spirit
- Read inspirational literature in the morning
- Blog about spirituality
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our morning ‘coffee vacation’
- Help others in computer-related projects
- Be open to service opportunities in the moment
- Examine my behaviors, thoughts, and feelings
- Connect with Spirit throughout the course of the day
- Take care of my physical and mental bodies
- Listen to music
- Shine my light wherever I am, whoever I am with
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our afternoon ‘coffee vacation’
- Breathe deeply
- Take a walk
- Take time to pause
- Spend time with my Unity of Sedona family either in a seminar, at choir rehearsal, or otherwise
- Read spiritual literature in the evening
- Go to bed at night, snuggling up to Rog and thanking God for all the blessings and abundance in my life.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Pray for... Laughter
A recent posting on the Our Prayer website stated: “In the moment of sincere laughter, our heart is open as we experience true joy and gratitude for life.”
That’s the spiritual side, but there is also physical healing in humor. We know that laughter can improve heart rate, ease muscle tension and strengthen the immune system.
What a blessing laughter is. So why not pray for it?
A Prayer for Laughter
Dear Lord,
The day can be challenging.
Often our problems overwhelm our joys.
Today help me to see the moments that lighten my heart.
Help me to laugh more and fret less.
May the radiance and joy of your love shine in me.
Amen.
- OurPrayer.org
That’s the spiritual side, but there is also physical healing in humor. We know that laughter can improve heart rate, ease muscle tension and strengthen the immune system.
What a blessing laughter is. So why not pray for it?
A Prayer for Laughter
Dear Lord,
The day can be challenging.
Often our problems overwhelm our joys.
Today help me to see the moments that lighten my heart.
Help me to laugh more and fret less.
May the radiance and joy of your love shine in me.
Amen.
- OurPrayer.org
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
A Single Prayer
I did some more inner child and gestalt work over this past weekend. Gestalt Therapy was developed by Fritz Perls and his wife Laura, in the 1940’s; their work emphasized a phenomenological and subjective approach to therapy.
Perls noted that many of us split off our experience (thoughts, sensations, emotions) that are uncomfortable. One goal of his work is to move people into owning their experience and developing into a healthy gestalt (or whole). In addition to helping the client overcome symptoms, the objective of Gestalt Therapy is to enable him or her to become more fully and creatively alive and to be free from the blocks and unfinished issues that may diminish optimum satisfaction, fulfillment, and growth.
I felt a shift in my body as my 15 year-old spoke, confided, and sobbed to her older self, the current me. Who else could she talk to who would so know and understand what it was like living in the family? It was also helpful having that child hold a conversation with her mother over an upsetting - and revealing - childhood incident.
This work brought freedom to my soul. It’s not over yet, but it is a huge step towards wholeness, being all that I was created to be and express, and living from my true essence.
I am so very grateful for the loving and wonderful teachers and counselors who are a part of my life these days. Bless them! Most of them I’ve only recently met since moving to Sedona 5½ months ago, but it’s clear that we are not strangers - we are f-a-m-i-l-y. I feel like we are from the same wonderful tribe, helping one another heal and awaken.
So this morning, with a great enthusiasm for life and the people in it, my conversation with God is a simple prayer: Thank You, God - Thank You, God - Thank You, God!
Perls noted that many of us split off our experience (thoughts, sensations, emotions) that are uncomfortable. One goal of his work is to move people into owning their experience and developing into a healthy gestalt (or whole). In addition to helping the client overcome symptoms, the objective of Gestalt Therapy is to enable him or her to become more fully and creatively alive and to be free from the blocks and unfinished issues that may diminish optimum satisfaction, fulfillment, and growth.
I felt a shift in my body as my 15 year-old spoke, confided, and sobbed to her older self, the current me. Who else could she talk to who would so know and understand what it was like living in the family? It was also helpful having that child hold a conversation with her mother over an upsetting - and revealing - childhood incident.
This work brought freedom to my soul. It’s not over yet, but it is a huge step towards wholeness, being all that I was created to be and express, and living from my true essence.
I am so very grateful for the loving and wonderful teachers and counselors who are a part of my life these days. Bless them! Most of them I’ve only recently met since moving to Sedona 5½ months ago, but it’s clear that we are not strangers - we are f-a-m-i-l-y. I feel like we are from the same wonderful tribe, helping one another heal and awaken.
So this morning, with a great enthusiasm for life and the people in it, my conversation with God is a simple prayer: Thank You, God - Thank You, God - Thank You, God!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Different Day
“Mining the moment for something that feels good, something to appreciate, something to savor, something to take in, that's what your moments are about. They're not about justifying your existence. It's justified. You exist. It's not about proving your worthiness. It's done. You're worthy. It's not about achieving success. You never get it done. It's about "How much can this moment deliver to me?"” - Abraham, Excerpted from the 04.20.02 San Antonio, TX workshop #391
Today I decided to work at home and not schedule any client appointments so that I could focus on the client work awaiting me here in my office.
OK, I’m not setting the alarm clock. It’s a chance to catch up on sleep because usually 7 days/week I’ve got outside commitments commencing at 8 AM.
Ohhh, that means my morning practice is going to be off schedule. Oh well, I can at least squeeze some spiritually-focused reading in...
What a chance to have a sit down hot, homemade pancake breakfast with Rog we never break bread in the morning these days. The clock is ticking...
Ah, a good day for a short photo-op for my upcoming e-newsletter. It won’t take much time...
And, I need to research where to get our haircuts. Now’s as good a time as any.
Great article here about prayer - let me read it now...
Time for some lunch... I’ll eat at my desk to play catch up with time.
And, on and on and on.
In the past I would have engaged in self-flagellation for not doing the work I had planned to accomplish. These days, not so. I am present and enjoying what I am doing. I’m enjoying the moments that I’m stringing along that comprise this first day of April in 2010. And it’s actually been “productive”! So what’s the issue? It’s just a different type of day unfolding because I’m letting it do so with Spirit’s help.
I am not here to treat myself harshly, nor am I here to push, push, push. I’m not here to prove or justify myself. I am here to rest in the joy, love, and peace of God’s embrace.
It’s one day at a time with Spirit by my side. Whatever I am doing, all is perfect, all is in Divine Order. So why get bent out of shape because I didn’t follow my calendar or ‘to-do’ list? I am exactly where I am supposed to be and all is well.
Thank You, Spirit, for Your Wisdom making its way through to me, along with Your Peace, Love, and Joy.
Today I decided to work at home and not schedule any client appointments so that I could focus on the client work awaiting me here in my office.
OK, I’m not setting the alarm clock. It’s a chance to catch up on sleep because usually 7 days/week I’ve got outside commitments commencing at 8 AM.
Ohhh, that means my morning practice is going to be off schedule. Oh well, I can at least squeeze some spiritually-focused reading in...
What a chance to have a sit down hot, homemade pancake breakfast with Rog we never break bread in the morning these days. The clock is ticking...
Ah, a good day for a short photo-op for my upcoming e-newsletter. It won’t take much time...
And, I need to research where to get our haircuts. Now’s as good a time as any.
Great article here about prayer - let me read it now...
Time for some lunch... I’ll eat at my desk to play catch up with time.
And, on and on and on.
In the past I would have engaged in self-flagellation for not doing the work I had planned to accomplish. These days, not so. I am present and enjoying what I am doing. I’m enjoying the moments that I’m stringing along that comprise this first day of April in 2010. And it’s actually been “productive”! So what’s the issue? It’s just a different type of day unfolding because I’m letting it do so with Spirit’s help.
I am not here to treat myself harshly, nor am I here to push, push, push. I’m not here to prove or justify myself. I am here to rest in the joy, love, and peace of God’s embrace.
It’s one day at a time with Spirit by my side. Whatever I am doing, all is perfect, all is in Divine Order. So why get bent out of shape because I didn’t follow my calendar or ‘to-do’ list? I am exactly where I am supposed to be and all is well.
Thank You, Spirit, for Your Wisdom making its way through to me, along with Your Peace, Love, and Joy.
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Shine Through Me
One of the prayers I came across this morning was “Lord, let my words and actions seek to uplift another whose load may need lightening and brightening today.” - Daily Guideposts, March 25, 2010
As I go out into the world today, I already know of some of the people I will encounter and their need for healing. I pray that my presence will soothe their spirit.
They may not realize what is lightening and brightening their day, but I will: God’s love, peace, and presence shining through me. I am so grateful to be such a vehicle for Spirit.
As I go out into the world today, I already know of some of the people I will encounter and their need for healing. I pray that my presence will soothe their spirit.
They may not realize what is lightening and brightening their day, but I will: God’s love, peace, and presence shining through me. I am so grateful to be such a vehicle for Spirit.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Prayer As Action
“We... seek God’s presence anywhere we are and in anyone we’re with. This is prayer as action...” - In God’s Care, March 28
Today is to be one of those days where I expect it to be quite easy to feel God’s presence where I am and in whom I am with. It’s to be a full day for me at Unity of Sedona: singing in the Mystic Choir, attending two services, joining in fellowship, participating in the annual meeting, and being of service. A time full with the love and joy of my (somewhat) new family.
The latter part of the afternoon Rog and I are going on a picnic. Yes, a real live picnic here in Sedona, here in the delightful springtime! We are the connecting piece of friends from Tucson/Clarkdale who used to work with our new Unity friends. A small world! So the six of us are getting together to get to know one another better, to celebrate, to connect.
As I said, I expect it to be an easy day to feel and fill up on the love, joy, and peace of Spirit. There are some days when feeling God’s presence is not that easy and poses quite a bit of a challenge.
Those are the days when more than ever I need to be not my ‘little me’ but the ‘big me’ that is my true essence. Those are the days that prayer is more important than ever. Those are the days when I need to really be conscious to seek God’s presence right where I am and with whom I am with.
That is prayer as action. And, that is knowing that wherever I am, I am with Spirit, standing together on holy ground.
Today is to be one of those days where I expect it to be quite easy to feel God’s presence where I am and in whom I am with. It’s to be a full day for me at Unity of Sedona: singing in the Mystic Choir, attending two services, joining in fellowship, participating in the annual meeting, and being of service. A time full with the love and joy of my (somewhat) new family.
The latter part of the afternoon Rog and I are going on a picnic. Yes, a real live picnic here in Sedona, here in the delightful springtime! We are the connecting piece of friends from Tucson/Clarkdale who used to work with our new Unity friends. A small world! So the six of us are getting together to get to know one another better, to celebrate, to connect.
As I said, I expect it to be an easy day to feel and fill up on the love, joy, and peace of Spirit. There are some days when feeling God’s presence is not that easy and poses quite a bit of a challenge.
Those are the days when more than ever I need to be not my ‘little me’ but the ‘big me’ that is my true essence. Those are the days that prayer is more important than ever. Those are the days when I need to really be conscious to seek God’s presence right where I am and with whom I am with.
That is prayer as action. And, that is knowing that wherever I am, I am with Spirit, standing together on holy ground.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Membership
Recently a fellow Mystic Choir member asked me why I was becoming a member of Unity of Sedona. You see, she’d contemplated becoming one but was a bit skittish. As was I.
I’d been a devout atheist for many years, and even after 20 years on a conscious spiritual path, I still had my issues around the word church. I associate church with organized religion, which at least these days I can kindly say that I am able to see how it is helpful for some folks. If I could get over being an atheist, surely I could get over my conception of church. I could no longer allow my mindset to keep me from my greater good.
Unity.org states:
“The five basic ideas that make up the Unity belief system are: 1) God is the source and creator of all. There is no other enduring power. God is good and present everywhere. 2) We are spiritual beings, created in God's image. The spirit of God lives within each person; therefore, all people are inherently good. 3) We create our life experiences through our way of thinking. 4) There is power in affirmative prayer, which we believe increases our connection to God. 5) Knowledge of these spiritual principles is not enough. We must live them.” Sounds pretty painless! Well, actually these are ideas that I very much resonate with and believe in.
Unity is a vehicle for instruction, inspiration, and prayer support for spiritual seekers. It is a place of education. Unity of Sedona specifically is where my spirit gets nourished and soars, whether singing with the choir or opening my heart at a gratitude meeting. It’s a place where I can be of service in a myriad of ways. It’s a place where I feel comfortable spreading my wings trying out new things. It is a place of learning and love where awakening happens.
Why become a member when I already can participate in everything, except having a say with a vote on organizational decisions? Becoming a member, I feel ‘more a part of’, which is important to the little girl inside who always felt different, starting first with her family of origin. Outside of my 12 Step family (which is huge), I have never so felt a part of a group of people (it has not been for lack of searching). Becoming a member means I’m making a commitment to something I believe in and am willing to stand up for it. This is “my place” and I want to care for it; I want to support it. This community is my family and I want to protect it, strengthen it, nurture it. I feel as a member I can give with more of a whole heart.
As my family at Unity of Sedona helps me flourish and wake up, together we all awaken to a world of peace, love, and joy.
I’d been a devout atheist for many years, and even after 20 years on a conscious spiritual path, I still had my issues around the word church. I associate church with organized religion, which at least these days I can kindly say that I am able to see how it is helpful for some folks. If I could get over being an atheist, surely I could get over my conception of church. I could no longer allow my mindset to keep me from my greater good.
Unity.org states:
“The five basic ideas that make up the Unity belief system are: 1) God is the source and creator of all. There is no other enduring power. God is good and present everywhere. 2) We are spiritual beings, created in God's image. The spirit of God lives within each person; therefore, all people are inherently good. 3) We create our life experiences through our way of thinking. 4) There is power in affirmative prayer, which we believe increases our connection to God. 5) Knowledge of these spiritual principles is not enough. We must live them.” Sounds pretty painless! Well, actually these are ideas that I very much resonate with and believe in.
Unity is a vehicle for instruction, inspiration, and prayer support for spiritual seekers. It is a place of education. Unity of Sedona specifically is where my spirit gets nourished and soars, whether singing with the choir or opening my heart at a gratitude meeting. It’s a place where I can be of service in a myriad of ways. It’s a place where I feel comfortable spreading my wings trying out new things. It is a place of learning and love where awakening happens.
Why become a member when I already can participate in everything, except having a say with a vote on organizational decisions? Becoming a member, I feel ‘more a part of’, which is important to the little girl inside who always felt different, starting first with her family of origin. Outside of my 12 Step family (which is huge), I have never so felt a part of a group of people (it has not been for lack of searching). Becoming a member means I’m making a commitment to something I believe in and am willing to stand up for it. This is “my place” and I want to care for it; I want to support it. This community is my family and I want to protect it, strengthen it, nurture it. I feel as a member I can give with more of a whole heart.
As my family at Unity of Sedona helps me flourish and wake up, together we all awaken to a world of peace, love, and joy.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
God Break
As I move from eating lunch and washing dishes to working on e-newsletters, I pause to take a God break.
Now, “break” is not the exact word I’d like to use as it implies a split, and I don’t ever want to feel separate from Spirit. But the truth of the matter is my mind is not always staid on Thee. So when I wake up and remember God consciously, I am grateful.
I take this time to breathe deeply, for it is God who breathes me, a wonderful remembrance. And, I thank God for the many blessings in my life. Finally, (it’s never ‘final’) I ask Spirit in prayer that I be energized, creative, and full of joy and peace as I go about the rest of my afternoon and evening. May Its Light shine through me and my work.
Ahhh. Now onward and upward.
Now, “break” is not the exact word I’d like to use as it implies a split, and I don’t ever want to feel separate from Spirit. But the truth of the matter is my mind is not always staid on Thee. So when I wake up and remember God consciously, I am grateful.
I take this time to breathe deeply, for it is God who breathes me, a wonderful remembrance. And, I thank God for the many blessings in my life. Finally, (it’s never ‘final’) I ask Spirit in prayer that I be energized, creative, and full of joy and peace as I go about the rest of my afternoon and evening. May Its Light shine through me and my work.
Ahhh. Now onward and upward.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Inner Peace
“I am at peace when my heart and mind are on God.” - Today’s Daily Word, March 22, 2010
Yes, indeed. Ya know the only place I want to be is with God. Of course, I am always with God, and God with me - it cannot be any other way. But I’m not always focused on God. And when my heart and mind are not on God, life is often tough and I do not feel at peace.
It’s like there is this veil, sometimes thick, sometimes thin. I’m on one side, sometimes fairly awake, many times asleep, and God is always on the other side, fully present. I endeavor to get that veil as thin as possible through prayer, affirmation, meditation, sitting in the silence, etc.
I endeavor to keep my heart and mind staid on Thee. There I am in bliss, joy, and peace.
Yes, indeed. Ya know the only place I want to be is with God. Of course, I am always with God, and God with me - it cannot be any other way. But I’m not always focused on God. And when my heart and mind are not on God, life is often tough and I do not feel at peace.
It’s like there is this veil, sometimes thick, sometimes thin. I’m on one side, sometimes fairly awake, many times asleep, and God is always on the other side, fully present. I endeavor to get that veil as thin as possible through prayer, affirmation, meditation, sitting in the silence, etc.
I endeavor to keep my heart and mind staid on Thee. There I am in bliss, joy, and peace.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Joy From Spirit
One of this morning’s readings was about laughter and it got me thinking...
Last night was weekly rehearsal time for the Mystic Choir. I experience such joy there. I feel joy not only in singing, but in our opening and closing prayer time, chatting with others before and after the rehearsal, the ‘hello’ hugs and the ‘good night’ ones, and in connecting to Spirit throughout this special time in a special sanctuary.
Laughter is another time of joy for me. I don’t get it on a prescribed, regular interval of the week, but when it comes my way, I grasp it. For laughter, like singing for me, is also a time to connect with others and God. It is a time of being so in the Now that I forget myself and just let me be.
There are times when laughter brings me to tears, tears of joy. And too, when the lyrics and/or the music of a song bring me to tears, my heart has been touched; I feel closer to God and joy.
Dear Spirit -
Thank You for the myriad of ways You open my heart to connect with myself, with others, and with You. Thank You for the joy You grace me with. Help me to be awake to the moments that lighten and open my heart and may the radiance and joy of Your love shine in me.
Last night was weekly rehearsal time for the Mystic Choir. I experience such joy there. I feel joy not only in singing, but in our opening and closing prayer time, chatting with others before and after the rehearsal, the ‘hello’ hugs and the ‘good night’ ones, and in connecting to Spirit throughout this special time in a special sanctuary.
Laughter is another time of joy for me. I don’t get it on a prescribed, regular interval of the week, but when it comes my way, I grasp it. For laughter, like singing for me, is also a time to connect with others and God. It is a time of being so in the Now that I forget myself and just let me be.
There are times when laughter brings me to tears, tears of joy. And too, when the lyrics and/or the music of a song bring me to tears, my heart has been touched; I feel closer to God and joy.
Dear Spirit -
Thank You for the myriad of ways You open my heart to connect with myself, with others, and with You. Thank You for the joy You grace me with. Help me to be awake to the moments that lighten and open my heart and may the radiance and joy of Your love shine in me.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Holy Prayer
“If you begin to live life looking for the God that is all around you, every moment becomes a prayer.” - Frank Bianco
... and everywhere we are standing, we are in God’s Presence, we are on holy ground.
... and everywhere we are standing, we are in God’s Presence, we are on holy ground.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Time Well Spent
“Today, before I get started on my to-do list, I think I’ll call my friend ____, just to say hello. I know it will be time well spent.
Lord, remind me that when I get too busy to spend a moment with a friend, I’m busier than You want me to be." - Gina Bridgeman, Daily Guideposts, March 11, 2010
One of my dearest friends sent an email yesterday to review a monthly transaction we’ve been involved in. Underneath the words and even her signature of “Love, ____”, I sensed a coolness (it was confirmed by Rog without even my mentioning it). It stung and surprised me.
I started conjuring up stories about why she might feel cool towards me, of which any or all could be accurate. I replied in a loving way, but have still felt ‘off’ about it - it is so unlike her.
My unsettledness about it was still with me this morning as I thought about how we’ve not had a lengthy, quality conversation in months. With being in different time zones, her having young children to care for, my increased work load and other responsibilities, it’s been difficult to set a telephone date to connect.
So how synchronistic that this morning I got to read a devotional from several days ago that I feel had God’s hand in it. Relationships are the most important thing, starting first with the one with Spirit. When I find myself too busy to nurture that one or the ones of those dear to me, it is time to take serious inventory.
No matter what my friend is feeling and what the story might be, nonetheless it is true that I have not nurtured our friendship much in recent months.
Thank You, Spirit, for reminding me of what is important in life and to slow down. I will keep those dear to me in prayer, bless them, and endeavor more greatly to connect with them directly despite obstacles. It will be time well spent.
Lord, remind me that when I get too busy to spend a moment with a friend, I’m busier than You want me to be." - Gina Bridgeman, Daily Guideposts, March 11, 2010
One of my dearest friends sent an email yesterday to review a monthly transaction we’ve been involved in. Underneath the words and even her signature of “Love, ____”, I sensed a coolness (it was confirmed by Rog without even my mentioning it). It stung and surprised me.
I started conjuring up stories about why she might feel cool towards me, of which any or all could be accurate. I replied in a loving way, but have still felt ‘off’ about it - it is so unlike her.
My unsettledness about it was still with me this morning as I thought about how we’ve not had a lengthy, quality conversation in months. With being in different time zones, her having young children to care for, my increased work load and other responsibilities, it’s been difficult to set a telephone date to connect.
So how synchronistic that this morning I got to read a devotional from several days ago that I feel had God’s hand in it. Relationships are the most important thing, starting first with the one with Spirit. When I find myself too busy to nurture that one or the ones of those dear to me, it is time to take serious inventory.
No matter what my friend is feeling and what the story might be, nonetheless it is true that I have not nurtured our friendship much in recent months.
Thank You, Spirit, for reminding me of what is important in life and to slow down. I will keep those dear to me in prayer, bless them, and endeavor more greatly to connect with them directly despite obstacles. It will be time well spent.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
This Day
This day my prayer is really the one I have every day but I realized that I’ve not given it expression in a while. And since there is power in expressing, it is time that I do so again.
This day my prayer is to clearly hear Spirit’s guidance and to follow it. My prayer is to do God’s will, and to do it in peace, and love, and joy.
And whatever is God’s will, I know the Great Mystery is with me to accomplish it, to give me the ability and strength to carry it out. I need only ask, be open, and be willing.
This day may I be all these things and more.
This day my prayer is to clearly hear Spirit’s guidance and to follow it. My prayer is to do God’s will, and to do it in peace, and love, and joy.
And whatever is God’s will, I know the Great Mystery is with me to accomplish it, to give me the ability and strength to carry it out. I need only ask, be open, and be willing.
This day may I be all these things and more.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Help Me
Good morning, God, Holy Spirit, angels, spirit guides, elements, elementals, and all those interested in my upliftment –
My prayer today is “Help me!”
God: Help you with what?
Me: Help me with everything in my life! Help me with my relationships, my finances, my physical health, my mental being. Above all, help me clear and strengthen my connection with You.
And, let’s not forget: please help me to manage my time, to be peaceful regardless of appearances, to have mercy, and to forgive.
My prayer today is “Help me!”
God: Help you with what?
Me: Help me with everything in my life! Help me with my relationships, my finances, my physical health, my mental being. Above all, help me clear and strengthen my connection with You.
And, let’s not forget: please help me to manage my time, to be peaceful regardless of appearances, to have mercy, and to forgive.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Watering My Soul
Scott Walker tells the story of purchasing his favorite flowering plant, the hibiscus. He bought it during the summer, placed it on his patio, and without any effort on his part, it was nurtured by rain and his sprinkler system. It grew rapidly, and was lush with rich green leaves and bright trumpet blossoms.
Brought into his sunny breakfast room to protect it from the cold in the winter, the hibiscus was not automatically water. Scott forgot to water it and soon the hibiscus wilted, its leaves yellowed, and it was falling to the floor. He was ready to toss it into the garbage can, but as he passed the kitchen sink, he decided to try watering the hibiscus to give it one last chance. Soon the water brought the plant back to a flourishing life.
Scott recounts “This morning, as I sat at the breakfast table and looked at the hibiscus, it occurred to me that when I haven’t attended to my spiritual life, it begins to wilt and wither, and only prayer can bring back its vitality and rekindle its hope. If, in the midst of winter, I’ve allowed the frost to touch my soul, I cannot wait one more day to water it with prayer.”
How true Scott’s lesson is. I must nourish and tend to my soul regularly. It takes conscious effort on my part - it cannot be automatically fed and no one else can do it. When I take time to nurture my spirit through practice of prayer, meditation, reading, and helping others, I thrive and my life gets better and better.
Brought into his sunny breakfast room to protect it from the cold in the winter, the hibiscus was not automatically water. Scott forgot to water it and soon the hibiscus wilted, its leaves yellowed, and it was falling to the floor. He was ready to toss it into the garbage can, but as he passed the kitchen sink, he decided to try watering the hibiscus to give it one last chance. Soon the water brought the plant back to a flourishing life.
Scott recounts “This morning, as I sat at the breakfast table and looked at the hibiscus, it occurred to me that when I haven’t attended to my spiritual life, it begins to wilt and wither, and only prayer can bring back its vitality and rekindle its hope. If, in the midst of winter, I’ve allowed the frost to touch my soul, I cannot wait one more day to water it with prayer.”
How true Scott’s lesson is. I must nourish and tend to my soul regularly. It takes conscious effort on my part - it cannot be automatically fed and no one else can do it. When I take time to nurture my spirit through practice of prayer, meditation, reading, and helping others, I thrive and my life gets better and better.
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