August 30, 2022

I wake up in near darkness these days as summer brightness begins its surrender into fall shadows.

Inspired by a short video, “The Beauty of Living,” (See note below.) I decided to light a candle on the dresser as the first act of the day.

I light the candle as an expression of gratitude. Oh, let me count the ways.

I light the candle as an acknowledgement of seasonal changes, as well as the changes I experience as I age.

I light the candle to welcome the day and to offer myself to the rhythm of the day.

I light the candle to open to the gifts of the day. May I see them, know them, honor them.

I light the candle to accept the challenges of the day. May I be filled with grace.

I light the candle to soften the expectations for the day, for myself in the day. May I not be driven by lists, but instead bring my whole heart into the day.

I light the candle as a sign of my connection to the whole. I am one in the all.

I light the candle to enlarge the boundaries of my heart.

I light the candle to know the Presence and to guide me in ways I can be the Presence.

I light the candle as a reminder that in everything there is shadow and in everything there is light.

I light the candle as an act of contemplation, leading to action.

I light the candle as way to enter the day.

And then I make the bed, pausing at the window to drink in the view of the gardens still lush in their summer energy.

An Invitation:

Do you have a spiritual practice that starts your day. I would love to know.

Note #1:

Here’s the link for the video, “The Beauty of Living.” https://gratefulness.org/resource/beauty-of-living/?utm_source=A+Network+for+Grateful+Living&utm_campaign=64065a9096-newsletter_october_2020_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_c606570b82-64065a9096-113849461&mc_cid=64065a9096&mc_eid=f8389d4b84

Note #2: Taking a Short Break

My next post will be Thursday, September 8, when I will share the summary of my August reading.

Note #3

As a reader of this blog, you know of my deep respect for Joan Chittister. She spoke once again at Chautauqua. Here’s a detailed report on her talk. I highly recommend you read it. https://chqdaily.com/2022/08/in-closing-week-sr-joan-chittister-details-how-to-live-courageous-prophetic-life/?mc_cid=f551a77842&mc_eid=a480c5ce14