We need not a new set of beliefs, but a new way of believing, not simply new answers to the same old questions, but a new set of questions.
Brian D. McLaren
Weekly Pause and Ponder
Cherish the Good
Once again, I received my inspiration for a blog contribution from a product tagline. In this case, it was one by the well known cereal company, Quaker Oats. The voice-over proudly asserts,”Cherish the good.”
In my opinion, the tagline is an excellent and much needed reminder as we approach Thanksgiving weekend. Bombarded by a constant barrage of the television screen flashing “Breaking News”, our hearts and minds yearn for sanity breaks. To retain a sense of hope, in our chaotic world, there is a desire within us to bring balance to our lives by noticing the numerous signs of good news. We witness or experience gestures of kindness, numerous blessings of compassion, or the ongoing support of family and friendship. To stay relatively calm these days we need to become more conscious of the sprinkles of goodness which are apparent, if only we paid heed.
As we prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, let us open our eyes to see the blessings which surrounds us and cherish the good.
-Sister Nancy Wales, CSJ
Image: Joseph Gonzalez @miracletwentyone/Ann @ann10 Unsplash
Weekly Pause and Ponder
Today is a Day Like No Otter
A colleague recently gifted me a card with the delightful pun, “Today is a Day Like No Otter”. I proudly displayed it on my office door. The otter, a graceful, joyful and light-hearted creature, became a small but meaningful symbol in my daily routine. It reflected my quiet wish that anyone who passed by my office door might catch a moment of laughter, lightness, or peace.
As professor Google tells us, otters are symbols of adaptability, simple joys, and a life lived in balance. Becoming aware of that fact, I felt only right to share my little spark of cheer. I passed the card on to a hospital receptionist, inviting her to replace her usual "Back in 5 minutes" sign when it was not applicable. When she is clearly present it offers her an opportunity to brighten someone’s day. This was my small way of sharing a little joy with ott-ers.
So may this playful creature serve as a gentle reminder and a chance to share your joy with ott-ers ;).
“Just as the otter finds play in every wave, we should find joy in every moment.”
-Sister Nancy Wales, CSJ
Image: mana5280/Jim @iqsphotographyUnsplash