ARCHIVES 2022
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 Black Friday
“Once more unto the breach, dear friends, once more. Stiffen the sinews, set the teeth and stretch the nostril wide. Hold hard the breath and bend up every spirit. Show us the mettle of your pasture. Let us swear that you are worth your breeding. I see you straining upon the start. The game's afoot.” - William Shakespeare, Henry V “When Jesus traveled through towns and villages and beheld the marketplace, he saw the crowds and had compassion on them because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few.’” - Matthew 9:35-37 Affirmative prayer: Today, on Black Friday, I have compassion for crowds and merchants as they exchange goods and services. May there be soulful connections in the marketplace, a sense of sacred bartering and blessing with each exchange. May grateful souls everywhere be about family and friends, relaxation, and safe travels. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  A Thanksgiving Prayer
“Thank you, Loving Creator, for family and friends who gather in person or in spirit around our Thanksgiving table. Thank you, Loving Creator, for being our Inner Light, our Guiding Radiance, our Unending Source of goodness. Thank you, Loving Creator, for food, shelter, clothing, and for the abundance we have beyond what we basically need. Thank you, Loving Creator, for disturbing us, challenging us, urging us by your grace to grow deeper and more whole. Thank you, Loving Creator, for the amazing gift of our life, for the complexity and beauty of the human person. Thank you, Loving Creator, for the magnificence of our universe and the nurturing gift of our planet. Thank you, Loving Creator, for so much more: sleep that restores, prayer that strengthens, friendship that comforts, laughter that releases, tears that heal, hearts and bodies that mend, minds that find meaning, arms that embrace.” - Joyce Rupp  When asked how faith plays a role in his politics, Senator Cory Booker said that his key directive is, "Love thy neighbor.” He went on to say, “Love is a verb, not a noun. If you love someone, act on it, show it. May we all better find ways to show the love we have in our hearts.”
“God is urging me to discover that all people are uniquely and completely loved. In the light of God, I can see my neighbor as my brother or sister, as the one who belongs as much to God as I do.” – Henri Nouwen, The Return of the Prodigal Son Affirmative prayer: Today, I see my neighbors, companions, and adversaries as pure emanations of the Divine. I hold them all in the most positive energy imaginable, as loved by the Infinite Presence that gives life to us all. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Family members, friends, and others gathered at a makeshift memorial of flowers, candles, and pride flags outside the Club Q nightclub where the Colorado Springs shooting occurred, extending their hearts to those beset by the tragedy. Chris Hansen, who survived the Pulse nightclub shooting in Florida years ago, said he hopes Club Q survivors and the LGBTQ community can "Stay in the light. Don't give up. There's still hope, there's still love, and love wins. Don’t allow this to take away your happiness, your brightness, your community, your strength."
“There is so much goodness in the world. We see it everywhere. Every day, millions of people – more than millions – are touching others with kindness, generosity, and compassion. This is the trueness of humanity, of God in us. It bathes the darkness with light.” - Scott Awbrey Prayer: “Radiant Goodness, today I turn to you as the source of Love. I remember your light dwelling within me. Keep me mindful of your transforming presence. Shine this goodness lovingly on each person with whom I come in contact. I send your love forth into our world. May all those who suffer find solace in you. May all of creation know your peace. Amen.” – Joyce Rupp  The historic Artemis I space mission is in flight and the spacecraft sent back spectacular views of Earth, with the vehicle about 57,000 miles away from our planet on its way to the moon. NASA's Artemis missions aim to eventually "land the first woman and first person of color on the Moon," explore the lunar surface, and lay the groundwork for sending astronauts to Mars.
“Someday, after we have mastered the winds and the waves and the tides and gravity, we shall harness for God the energies of Love. And then, for the second time in the history of the world, humans will have discovered fire.” – Teilhard de Chardin Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks for my discoveries of love, goodness, and joy in the relationships I’m about, in the care of my own mind and body, and in the work I do. All is underwritten by Spirit, and knowing this lifts me up and makes me an instrument of divine love. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  As the counting of votes continues, Republicans are looking to win the House of Representatives, which will divide Congress and make it more difficult for the White House and the Democrats to advance their domestic agenda. But the GOP’s win may result in both parties being more productive than expected. Research shows that the US government sometimes overperforms during periods of divided government.
Here is the ultimate irony of the divided life: live behind a wall long enough, and the true self you tried to hide from the world disappears from your own view.” – Parker Palmer, A Hidden Wholeness Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I allow my sense of otherness to fall away as I move through this day. I am vividly aware of my connection to – my oneness with – all those in the great arena of life. I am blessed by the uniqueness of each soul, and I honor their place in Divine Mind. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Marine scientists just returned from an incredible “voyage of discovery,” exploring uncharted waters of the Indian Ocean. They found never before seen deep-sea animals with twinkling lights, velvety black skin, and mouths full of needle-sharp fangs. The team also uncovered huge volcanoes more than 5,000 meters high, almost as tall as Mount Kilimanjaro. See the video.
“Every discovery of the world plunges us into jubilation, a radical amazement that tears apart the veil of triviality.” – Judy Cannato, Radical Amazement Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks for my voyage of discovery, the sense of wonder that I can experience in any moment. I am amazed at the beauty and wonderment of life, my life. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  The world’s population reached 8 billion people yesterday, with UN officials saying that the growth is due to the increase in human lifespan and the result of high levels of fertility in some countries. Reaching the 8-billion mark “is an occasion to celebrate diversity and advancements while considering humanity’s shared responsibility for the planet.”
Love is the answer to every question. Just think, if everyone on the planet did three acts of kindness a day, that would be billions of little gifts of graces going out every day to love the world into its absolute beingness! We are all needed to raise each other up! – Rebecca Shinas, OP, Dominican Sisters Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I believe in the goodness of others, recognizing their pure intentions, the love in their hearts, and their acts of compassion. I bless their lives with kindness and generosity. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are meeting this week, talking about the two country’s relationship, and about Taiwan, Ukraine, technology, and more. It’s easy to think that their conversations will not actually enhance the lives of those in their communities, but it can be seen as positive that they’re in the same room, talking. Let’s bless their union and the hearts of these two individuals who can influence a great many lives.
“Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply. When we listen with curiosity, we listen for what’s behind the words.” - Roy T. Bennett, The Light in the Heart Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, in being with others, I seek to hear, rather than be heard. In our conversation, I listen with the “ear of the heart,” with a mindful and loving heart, unencumbered by internal chatter, personal ambition, or hidden agendas. I am one with my companion. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Dusty Baker, the manager of the Houston Astros, won his first World Series last week, which is noteworthy because it showed what perseverance and character can do. The 73-year-old champion is only the third Black manager to win the Series, and Dusty is much beloved. Fans from around the country were pulling for him. “I’m so happy that it took this long because it allowed me to influence more people.”
“Jack pines won't win many beauty contests. But this valiant old tree is as beautiful as a living thing can be. In the calligraphy of its shape against the sky is written strength of character and perseverance. In its silence it speaks of wholeness and integrity that comes from being what you are.” – Douglas Wood, author, musician, naturalist Affirmative prayer: Today, Infinite Presence, I am true to who I am. I give thanks for my inclusion in this grand life, for my connection to others and to Divine Beingness. I am appointed, every day, to live in wholeness and integrity, and I pray that my living example inspires others. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  During World War II, Jimmy Durante was doing a show for veterans, and had told his staff that he could only do a short monologue and leave quickly. But he stayed on stage much longer than planned. When asked why, he pointed to two men in the front row, each of whom had lost an arm in the war. One had lost his right arm and the other had lost his left. But, together, they were clapping loudly and cheerfully.
Affirmative prayer: Today, I honor the veterans of our nation, for their service and sacrifice. I revere the spirit of men and women who join together to meet their duty. And I join my hands and heart with others in fulfilling the sacred missions to which we are called. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  As we conclude the 2022 election season – votes in many races are still being counted – we are called to pray for our officials and to hold them in love, high regard, and gratitude.
Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, in the truth of oneness and the radiance of love, I affirm that all those in elected office be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” May our leaders be humble, strong, soft-hearted, and visionary. With the grace and power of divine energy, may they feel encouraged, strengthened, and inspired. May their spirit be lifted up every day and may they and their families be held safe. I give thanks that each leader in national or local government feel the presence of God in their work with such clarity and passion that they see through eyes of Spirit. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. You see and experience a whole new world, a world of Source energy that wants you to reconnect to It and live a life of joyful well-being.” – Wayne Dyer
Affirmative prayer: I take precious time today to become still and contemplate the Source of life. I cast light on the vibrational truth of my being, and am pulled by its energetic temper of beauty and wholeness. I am reflectively inspired to reconnect to that which creates all that is, and to remember that I am an expression of pure joy. This, I cannot keep to myself. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  “I remember being a child. I couldn’t play the piano yet and my head was just short of the piano keys. I couldn’t see them. I would put my foot on the reverb pedal and, reaching up, find a note. Then I would find another one that would sound good with the first one. That’s how we live, finding those notes.” - Bono, from the band, U2
“You find your path by listening to your soul, experiencing the sacred and then practicing it until you make it a song that sings you.” – Sue Monk Kidd, The Dance of the Dissident Daughter Affirmative Prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks that there is a sacred melody in each of us. By lowly listening, I am finding my life-song. Now is the time for my solo of joyful expression. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Patients between the ages of 4 and 9 at Children’s Health of Orange County no longer have to be transported to treatment in wheel chairs and gurneys. Now, they can drive themselves down the hospital’s hallways in a small electric car developed by Honda. Parents say they’re hearing their kids laugh for the first time in a long time. Watch the joy here.
“Laughter, song, and dance create emotional and spiritual connection; they remind us of the one thing that truly matters when we are searching for comfort or healing: We are not alone.” – Brene Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection Affirmative Prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks for all who bring joy to others, and for the life-giving energy that laughter radiates through spirit, mind, and body. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Daylight Saving Time ends November 6
A busy night at Stonehenge as workers move the stones forward. “Truth is that which does not change with time and space." - Raju Ramanathan, Souls from Mercury Affirmative Prayer: Infinite Presence, I live in the here and now, in the timeless preciousness of this moment. I breath in and am filled with wonder. I breathe out and unite with the beauty of life. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  The child poverty rate in the U.S. has greatly improved over the past 30 years. Today, one in 10 children live in families below the poverty line, but that’s a vast improvement over the one-in-four numbers in 1993. Lower unemployment, lower rates of teen pregnancy, and government programs contribute to the improvement. A report from Child Trends says the numbers remind us that, no matter how gloomy the world may seem, the human experience keeps getting better.
“For all our shortcomings and dreams deferred, the human experiment, begun so long ago, carried out imperfectly, is worth the fight. There is, in fact, no struggle more important, and none nobler, than the one we wage in the service of our better angels.” – John Meacham, The Soul of America Affirmative Prayer: I give thanks for the care and compassion of the angels who come to the aid of their sisters and brothers. I pray that the time is coming when no one is hungry; that in our collective human experience, needs are met, nations are at peace, and every soul is respected and cared for. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Two brothers were going through their recently deceased father’s things in his home. Among a lifetime of personal treasures, there was the familiar Norman Rockwell print hanging in the living room. Imagine their surprise when they found another Rockwell hidden behind a wall that was the same as the first one, only the hidden one was the original painting. Titled “Breaking Home Ties,” they sold it for $15 million.
“There is in all things a hidden wholeness.” – Parker Palmer Affirmative prayer: There is, behind the façade of my human beingness, the original life of the Divine. I feel it when hold my loved ones, laugh with friends, and behold the beauty of nature. I bow to it in my prayers, and I recognize it in the eyes of my soul companions. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  “Today – All Saints' Day – we remember celebrated saints like Mother Teresa, St. Francis of Assisi, and Thomas Aquinas - individuals who have discerned spiritual truth and who did great works. We also honor the saints among us: those who feed the hungry, visit the sick, comfort others, stand guard at a school crossing zone... They give and sustain life. There is a saint in us all.” – Scott Awbrey
“We can become artists in living. To live by inspiration means to sense the divine touch in everything; to enter into the spirit of things; to enter into the joy of living.” – Ernest Holmes, This Thing Called Life Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks for the saint in us all, affirming that we each find our unique way to give, serve, and love. I know that the Divine takes pleasure in our inspired living, our saintly actions, and in the sound of our voices. Thank you, God, forever, Amen.  “Halloween time. The biggest trick we play on ourselves is the illusion that we are separate from one another and from our Creator. We put on masks and play various roles. But we can treat ourselves to the truth: that we are made in God’s image and likeness. We are Spirit’s living enterprise.” - Scott Awbrey
“The real place of mystery is faith, not fear, not goblins and ghosts. It’s where we find the courage to believe in what we cannot see and the strength to let go of our fear of uncertainty.” – Brene Brown, The Gifts of Imperfection Affirmative prayer: “On this hallowed evening, I celebrate little ones in costume and grownups in delight. I celebrate the simple joy of treats given and received. I celebrate innocence, family, and neighbors. And I celebrate who we really are: pure expressions of light and love. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  “We are artists in living. To live by inspiration means to sense the divine touch in everything; to enter into the spirit of things, the joy of living.” - Ernest Holmes, The Essential Ernest Holmes
Affirmative Prayer: “Infinite Presence. Today, I sense the divine touch in every dimension of life: my relationships, home, health, finances. I lean into this Dynamic Source, its enlivening spirit, and enter into the joy of this moment. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  European concert pianist Paul Barton left the world stage to perform at the ElephantsWorld Sanctuary in Thailand. In one recital, he played for an 80-year-old elephant, Ampan, who is almost blind. The piece he played for Ampan, “Clair de Lune,” was inspired by the poem of the same name, by 17th century French poet Paul Verlaine. See and listen to the love here.
“Your soul is a chosen landscape, singing all the while of all-conquering love and life so kind. Its song mingles with the moonlight.” – Paul Verlaine, Claire de Lune Affirmative prayer: I give thanks that Spirit is in all life and that this Universal Presence knows Itself through relationships and music. Today, I revere this soulful, loving Intelligence which is everywhere present. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  NASA has assembled a team of astronomers, astrophysicists, biologists, and a former astronaut that will study UFOs. Thomas Zurbuchen of the space agency said, “We have the tools and team who can help us understand the unknown. It’s the very definition of science.” The team plans to release its findings in mid-2023.
“I want to know what you see in the darkness other than stars.” – Anthony Hincks, author Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I allow myself to explore the dark places of my life, my inner being. I stop denying the unwell and awkward aspects of my living, and I embrace all that I am and all that I experience. I see that, even in the darkness, there is wholeness, love, and room to breathe. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  Maryland firefighter Megan Warfield is wired to help others. When the pregnant 30-year-old Megan was in a car accident, she brushed aside her labor contractions and provided care to a person trapped under their overturned vehicle. Later, she checked herself into the hospital and gave birth to a baby girl.
“Our DNA harmonizes the atoms within us and makes us what we are. It's our life force, our soul.” – D.S. Smith, Unparalleled Affirmative prayer: I give thanks that the Infinite created me from the substance of Its own Divine essence. I am made to be a life-giver and to be of high service. Thank you, God, forever. Amen.  The James Webb Space Telescope captured a highly detailed snapshot of the Pillars of Creation, a vista of three looming towers made of interstellar dust and gas about 6,500 light-years away that’s speckled with newly formed stars. The fact that new stars are brewing within the eerie columns is what earned the region its name.
“The Universe that creates a watermelon from a tiny seed, and guides birds across the uncharted skies, is as focused on you. The same universal process is your creative genius.” – Eric Butterworth, The Creative Life Affirmative prayer: Infinite Presence, I give thanks for the pillars of creation that are continually at work in my heart and mind. For the cause-and-effect powers of gratitude, generosity, and love that inspire and guide me. I am empowered to bring light into the handiwork of my life. Thank you, Infinite Presence, forever. Amen. |