Dear Spiritual Family,
Thank you. As we write this, we are thinking about you. We are imagining you’re taking some time to read these words and to perhaps think about how they might apply in your lives. Thank you for this.
A few days ago, I, Rev. Steve, was corresponding with a relatively new friend. He was sharing with me that he had been having considerable difficulty resolving a banking issue. He described some of the details and his understandable frustration. Then he shared a revelation. In essence, he related how he had the realization of how “minor’ his challenge actually was as he thought it through.
He ”awakened” to the fact that, compared to so many others who struggle with much bigger issues every day, he could choose to be grateful for all that he does have. Placing his focus there, he was able to lift himself out of the problem.
On a much smaller scale, I recently took our five-year-old grandson to the hardware store to purchase a replacement hummingbird feeder. I felt myself doing some “inner grumbling” at the price of the feeder that I felt would be the best choice.
My thoughts were interrupted: “Grandpa, I want to get this for my Mommy.” He was pointing to a block of woodpecker suet. My heart filled up. “Of course,” I replied, “that would be nice.” Suddenly, the money for the hummingbird feeder became inconsequential. My heart had been opened by his simple gesture. We made our purchases and with smiles on our faces, rejoined Grandma Mary, who had been patiently waiting in the car.
Gratitude does that, doesn’t it? It helps us take stock of what is important. “Littleness” wants us to focus on lack or upset or “bad” customer service – almost anything to keep us out of our hearts.
But when we let go, when we reclaim our innocence, we realize the good that is always there if we are willing to see and feel it. As we dwell more in the beauty and the power of a grateful heart, we are blessed, and we bring the touch of blessings to a waiting world, one thought or action at a time. Thank you for your grateful hearts – the blessing you are and for the blessings you bring to the world.
We love you,
Rev. Steve and Mary
By the way, the hummingbirds love their new feeder. Each time we see them now, we are reminded of a young child whose heart is full of gratitude for his mommy.