Thanksgiving Message: Gratitude List!
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November 21, 2015, 11:52 am
Filed under: Becoming and Being Part of a UU Congregation, Family Ministry, Inspiration, Reflections, Stewardship & Finances | Tags: church life, generosity, gratitude, spiritual growth, thanksgiving
Filed under: Becoming and Being Part of a UU Congregation, Family Ministry, Inspiration, Reflections, Stewardship & Finances | Tags: church life, generosity, gratitude, spiritual growth, thanksgiving
This is from my column in the November church newsletter, the Unigram. You can read the whole issue at this link.
Gratitude List!
Medical studies reveal that cultivating a practice of generosity is good for your health. And one thing that generates generosity is the practice of saying thanks.
Our days can be long and full, and our challenges can be distracting, so it’s good to remember: it takes practice to be grateful. As I prepare to celebrate my eighth Thanksgiving season with UUSS, here is part of my gratitude list. I give thanks:
- … for those who disagree with me with authenticity and love. It’s a gift to know that people trust me enough to challenge a recent sermon, or say they don’t see eye to eye with me on a point of theology or social witness. It means we not only are living out our diversity, but trusting one another. It means love!
- … for the big, beautiful sanctuary building and the good things that happen inside: theater, music, book sales, large crowds on Sunday, coffee, soup, all-ages events like Thanksgiving dinner and the Holiday Party, fun fundraising activities, committee work, warm hospitality to newcomers, and care for others.
- … for my dedicated staff colleagues, our committed lay leaders, and the many volunteers who make this congregation so vital and exciting.
- … for the clear sky early in the morning, inviting me to read a poem or prayer and sit in reflection before I rush off. I would LIKE to be grateful also for a rainy morning—a whole bunch of them, soon!
- … for the generous members, friends, and families who make and pay a monthly pledge to UUSS. Your gifts make so much possible in and beyond UUSS.
- … for a home and a fun job, the relative safety which I am privileged to enjoy, the strength and vitality of the region and country in which I live, and the meals that sustain me every day.
Sometimes I forget to appreciate these ordinary blessings when they happen. That’s why I made this list. Thank you for reading!
Yours in service,
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