Parson to Person - Finding the blessings in life

The holidays are coming! The holidays are coming!

Halloween is just around the corner, which means that Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa will be here before we know it. The question is, what will we do when they get here? Will we celebrate the opportunity to be other people for just a little while on Halloween and share generously with those who stop by our homes for treats? Will we share what we are thankful for with friends, family members or community members? Will we overspend, over prepare or feel pressured to get just the right gift to show our love for others?

How will we celebrate the blessings in our lives as we gather together in the months and weeks ahead?

With all the chaos in the world these days and personal struggles with self-esteem and jealousy, I find myself in need of gentle reminders that things aren?t always what they seem, nor quite as bad as I may think they are. As I read through ?One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are,? a book about a woman?s process of finding joy in the midst of daily life, I?ve begun listing the blessings I discover so I may regain a deeper sense of gratitude and awareness of God?s presence in my life.

Things as simple as fuzzy caterpillars, a tree full of yellow leaves shining brightly in the sun, and the comforting presence of a purring cat in my lap bring joy into my life and keep me focused on the more important things in life. I wonder what simple pleasures make your days a little brighter and better centered on life with God.

As we approach the holiday season, let us take time to remember what is most important in our lives and share that with others. Let us open our senses and notice the blessings we encounter each day as we live, work, and have our being.

May we find deeper joy, greater communion, and amazing grace each and every day. In Christ?s name. Amen.