Thankfulness is the beginning of gratitude.
Gratitude is the completion of thankfulness.
Thankfulness may consist merely of words.
Gratitude is shown in acts.
- Henri Frederic Amiel
Weekly Pause & Ponder
In order to “opt” for the poor, one must be “non-poor.” In other words, one must be in a privileged position to choose a stance of solidarity; after all, one cannot “opt” for what one already is. In this sense, the option for the poor, as originally understood, is an opportunity for engaged compassion of the economically and socially privileged with the economically and socially marginalized.
For Earth’s Sake: Toward A Compassionate Ecology by Stephen Bede Scharper, p. 156.
Weekly Pause & Ponder
To pass the test before us, we humans must demonstrate the intelligence and moral maturity to liberate ourselves from the addictions of empire and to use our gifts wisely in the service of the whole.
Ancestral Grace: Meeting God in Our Human Story by Diarmuid O’Murchu.
Weekly Pause & Ponder
Human beings are to make a difference; we are here for a purpose; we are here to help make things better for others. We have only one lifetime in which to achieve this; thus, what we do in our brief time on earth matters.
- Life Abundant: Rethinking Theology and Economy for a Planet in Peril by Sallie McFague
Weekly Pause & Ponder
Do not be concerned with the fruit of your action - just give attention to the action itself. The fruit will come of its own accord. This is a powerful spiritual practice.
- Exkhart Tolle, Practicing the Power of Now