Category: gratitude

Remembering Jasper by Sharon Whealy, RScP

Jasper came to live with me in June/July of 2015. Before leaving Sonoma County for my new Bakersfield home, I thought that, while I would sure like a dog, my cat Maggie could use a cat companion. I knew I would be busy with school and creating my new life, and I’ve always had two cats so they could keep each other company.

Within the first month of living in Bakersfield, my neighbors were moving and had to leave “Cheeto” behind. They were happy he was making himself welcome in my home, and that I was happy to have him. The name Cheeto had to go, and I spent some time asking him what his new name was. In time, the name Jasper came to me. I looked up the meaning and found Jasper is a gift and the name of the fourth magi mentioned in some traditions.

Jasper was the companion for Maggie I had hoped for. They spent time together, often sleeping near each other, and Jasper loved to clean Maggie. She, however, never gave him a cleaning. Jasper didn’t purr much, and I learned that some cats – those lacking nurturing in their kittenhood – don’t purr. It was always a joy when he was content enough to relax into a quiet purr. In general, he was a quiet cat, which I suppose is good for hunting. Something he was VERY good at. When Charlie (that dog I had asked for way back when) came into our family, Jasper welcomed him with a slap on the nose – I’m the cat and you are the pup, know your place!

In October Jasper began losing weight and I knew something was going wrong. Having had many cats before him, it looked like his kidneys were failing. In November the diagnosis was confirmed. The Doctor recommended a prescription diet which helped for several weeks, but eventually, he lost interest in that as well. I began moving into acceptance and asking how I could best serve him, and not push my agenda (please, eat something).

This past week, Jasper would make appearances, then go off to whatever quiet place he found to prepare for his transition. I asked him daily what I could do to help, if anything. I practiced listening with my heart. On Monday, Jan 5, I reached out to our prayer team for support for Jasper and myself; asking for his peaceful transition, guidance if I was to help facilitate that, and clarity about his remains, all while I held it gently with love.

Our prayer team all said yes, you are in our prayers and Rev. Rhoni sent this lovely prayer:

Oh Mr. Jasper kitty, I am knowing your peaceful transition from this physical world to the next beautiful incarnation, to simply breathe in and step out of that furry body that houses a purrrfect soul. I know you will let your mama Sharon knows when it is time, whether it is facilitated, or you simply sleep peacefully releasing and letting go. And as you let go, you will allow her to know what to do with the body that you no longer occupy. I understand this to be a loving transitional experience for you and mama Sharon. I am grateful for the time you have shared with her, and know you are truly loved. Thank you, Jasper, for all that you are, and all that you will continue to do as an infinite soul. In gratitude and love, Rev. Rhoni

I sat with Jasper as we read the prayer together, he nosed the paper a few times as we shared our love, knowing the time for goodbyes was growing short. The last time I saw Jasper was Thursday morning, January 9th. I know in my heart he has gone, and that he went peacefully on his timing and his terms.

After mentioning his transition in service Sunday, I am grateful to those who offered their condolences. I am thankful for the opportunity to sit and pray with a friend whose cat Franklin is beginning his transition. When she asked what she could do for him, I suggested sitting with him and listening deeply with her heart, he would tell her what he needs as his time with her grows short. I also sat for a few minutes with Rev. Dr. Jonathan as his beloved cat, Cardiff, made his transition last Tuesday.

When I mentioned writing about Jasper to Rev. Rhoni she gave me her blessing and suggested we create an animal ministry to support our members and their pets, and I joyfully said YES! Rev. Dr. Jonathan said, we turn our pain into our ministry. Please let us know how we can support you and your beloved companions.

In my grief, I am grateful for Jasper being a part of our family for the last ten years. Deep grief comes from deep love.

Goodbye, Jasper Buddy, you are missed. We love you.

Jasper is survived by his sister Maggie, my mom’s cat Sam, and of course, Charlie the dog.

–Sharon Whealy, RScP

 

Thank You for the Music by Linda Bullock

There is a song of the Universe. Let’s sing it. There is a hymn of praise. Let’s praise it. There is a joy, a beauty; there is a deep, abiding peace. Let’s experience it. Ernest Holmes, Ideas of Power, p. 158

I was raised in a traditional Christian church with acapella gospel music. I have always loved the music in churches, especially when I can sing along. Since coming to learn about and adopt Science of Mind teachings, I cannot espouse religion which preaches a punishing God and declares that I need to be saved. Yet I can still appreciate some of the songs.

My first year of college was spent in a small Christian college in Arkansas. On Thursday nights, weather permitting, a large group of students would gather at the reflecting pond and spontaneously sing hymns, the climax of which was always “How Great Thou Art.” Those occasions were special to me and the voices were beautiful. I still like the first verse of that hymn and find it comforting: “Oh Lord, my God, when I in awesome wonder consider all the worlds Thy hands have made, I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy power throughout the universe displayed.” The rest of the song mentions the Savior God who sent His Son to die.

I used to love “The Old Rugged Cross” with the words “where the dearest and best for a world of lost sinners was slain…” And there’s Amazing Grace “that saved a wretch like me.” The Science of Mind teaches me that I don’t need to be saved. In Living the Science of Mind, Ernest Holmes states that “the future religion will be free from fear, superstition, and doubt,” (page 72).

There is an abundance of New Thought music, and I enjoy the performances and the messages. Our local Center for Spiritual Living Tucson is blessed with talented musicians, led by our creative musical director, Michael Zimmerman.

My current favorite spiritual compilations are written and performed by Rickie Byars in her album In The Land of I Am. “I Release and I Let Go” is often heard at CSL Tucson. Her rendition of “My God is So Good To Me” with a backing choir is an energetic performance sure to raise one’s vibration. She includes beautiful, haunting chants, such as “Om Shanti” and “Oyaheya.” The song “Use Me” is a personal dedication: “Use me, oh God, I stand for you. And here I’ll abide as you show me all that I must do…” Ms. Byars has made her music available in a Songbook online.

Karen Drucker is a prolific songwriter loved among New Thought communities. I find her song “Gentle with Myself” to be especially calming and reflective of the self-compassion evident in her music. Ms. Drucker’s songs are frequently a part of New Thought worship services; “I’m So Grateful,” “Thank You for This Day,” and “I am So Blessed’” among others.

Other outstanding musicians have graced us with their talent. Daniel Nahmod’s “Love is My Decision” is very familiar. He also is prolific, continuing to write and share his music in a weekly online concert. Faith Rivera has an extensive collection of spiritual music including “Rise” and “Power of Now.” Jami Lula has produced lots of spiritual music, including “Love is My Religion” and “There’s a Healin’ Goin’ On.” So much good spiritual music available for us!

Singing Wrong Lyrics with Confidence is an Art; and I’m an Artist.

–Peace and blessings to all. Linda Bullock

Letting Go …..With Appreciation by Linda Bullock

I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou

Buddhist wisdom tells us that suffering exists and presents paths out of suffering. Letting go of losses is a practice that exposes our expectations and eventually brings acceptance and peace. I like the word changes rather than losses and have been reflecting on ongoing changes occurring in our Tucson Center for Spiritual Living. We recently were blessed to see our former minister Reverend Janis for the occasion of installing our new minister.

We experienced a loss with the transition of our beloved Pat Masters this year. In a recent exercise for our Visioning class, it became clear that in my highest ideal I had envisioned a life like Pat’s. She was my first friend at CSL and was special to me, just as she was to so many in our community. Her generosity of spirit was immeasurable, and the void of her presence is still felt.

Our sweet Janie moved away from Tucson recently. She demonstrated unselfish service to our community. I loved her Texas accent and her kind demeanor. We wish her joy, health and peace in Colorado.

When a man’s thought rests entirely upon himself, he becomes abnormal and unhappy; but when he gives himself with enthusiasm to any legitimate purpose, losing himself in the thing which he is doing, he becomes normal and happy….Let the one who is sad, depressed, or unhappy find some altruistic purpose into which he may pour his whole being and he will find a new inflow of life of which he has never dreamed. Ernest Holmes, Science of Mind, page 440.4

Our Board of Trustees is experiencing substantial changes as members rotate off. We hope that they continue to be a part of our community.

I appreciate our outgoing Board President Maria for her wisdom, her sense of humor and her steady, reliable leadership. Maria’s awareness and actions helped us live our intention of inclusiveness, that all are welcome.

I appreciate Janet our Treasurer and de facto office manager. There is no way to enumerate all her contributions. Her off the chart technical skills, creativity, and loyalty are a key reason CSL Tucson survived the lean times of the pandemic, made improvements and continues to thrive.

I appreciate our outgoing Secretary Madeline. To see her in person is to experience a sense of Divine Light and Joy. I won’t say much about her because I have a precious, private friendship with her. I am not letting Maddy go.

1 Thessalonians 5:18 tells us to give thanks in all circumstances. I appreciate our practitioners who are an essential element of our service and practices. I appreciate Live Theatre Workshop and their staff for permitting and assisting CSLT to fulfill our mission. I appreciate our office/education center at 911 S. Craycroft for housing our operations and providing a safe space for classes and fellowship. I appreciate Basha’s food court for joyful gatherings. And I appreciate you, our CSL community.

Love, Linda

Stone Soup – The value of a spiritual community

A very long time ago, people wandered from village to village exchanging stories of their experiences, while at the same time enjoying the hospitality. As time passed resources in the villages became scarce, and those that enjoyed a nomadic life were discouraged and told there was no food that could be shared. So, one day, a traveler wandered into a village and set up a small encampment. It was on the side of the road not too far from the village marketplace. As they unpacked, they assembled wood and leaves under a large cooking pot. Once the fire was started and the water boiling, a clean stone from their pack was unwrapped from its bindings, and carefully, yet ceremoniously dropped in the pot of hot water. Curious villagers observing the actions of the traveler, began to gravitate towards the boiling pot. As a small crowd began to gather, one by one, each person would ask what was being made in the pot. The traveler would answer, “stone soup!” It is a delicious recipe, and the traveler would be willing to share, but the soup required just a few more garnishes to improve the taste. The villagers scattered, but returned with vegetables, a soup bone, herbs, onions, potatoes, etc., the boiling pot was filled to the brim with its hearty content. After boiling a little more, the soup was ready and plentiful enough for the entire village to enjoy a meal together.

What is illustrated here in the story is not a simple stone and boiling water, but a leap of faith for the traveler to believe in the villagers. For the villagers it is the investment of trust and generosity for the stone soup to become something more than a pot of hot water and a stone.

In the beginning, the traveler knew they lived in a world that was reciprocal and abundant. However, over time they experienced the villages slowly closing, shutting out others to keep themselves safe and only to themselves. There no longer existed, sharing, or caring for one another. The travelers in their experience knew the villagers, like we often do when we experience lack or change, were hoarding their good. What I would name energy, love, ideas, etc. The villagers thinking by holding back they were abundant, when they were poorer, because their energy was stagnant, and they were no longer connecting with one another.

In the Science of Mind, we understand when we are looking through a lens of lack, it is better to clean those lenses and shift our minds from problems to possibilities. We then move mentally from the root cause of “not enough” to abundance. When we create the shift, we refocus on our gifts and possibilities, reigniting connection. Stone Soup may be a parable about the value and significance of community (a village) sharing small parts of their pantries, but it continues to express how often we deprive ourselves and everyone else of a feast when we separate ourselves from the ONE source of all that is. We can have more together than we can separately, the abundance of the soup is the result of a village bringing their resources together to feed everyone. We are each making a significant contribution no matter what amount you bring to the table. It is a feast for all.

As a spiritual community, it is important for us to break bread together. To create a sense of belonging and demonstrate a mindset of connectedness. We invite others into our conversation to share ideas and offer them a dessert of safety and support. As a Center we are in a consciousness of caring for the whole. By sharing our gifts, we will inspire others to do the same. The reward is a banquet that can nourish many, and an abundance of new friends we create new experiences with!

I leave you with these words from Ernest Holmes our Founder:

“We should give of ourselves in love and in service to others, in a spirit of generosity and good-fellowship. To refuse to give is to refuse to receive, for everything moves in circles. Real giving is the givingness of the self. A kind word, a thoughtful act, perhaps just a smile, can help lighten the burdens of others.” (Ideas for Living, 1972, pg. 55)

I look forward to being with you this Sunday and moving forward as a spiritual community.

–In love, Rev. Rhonda

GOT INTENTIONS? by Madeline Pallanes

There once was a group of friends who were interested in the Science of Mind and the power of positive thinking. They formed a Mastermind group and were discussing the concept of manifestation and how they could use their thoughts to attract what they wanted in life. They agreed to do an experiment and wrote down what they wanted to see could happen in a month. A month later they gathered to share their results.

The first friend said, “I won the lottery and became a millionaire.”

The second friend said, “I found my soulmate and we’re madly in love.”

The third friend said, “I traveled the world and had incredible experiences.”

The fourth friend said, “I am happy and healthy. That’s it.”

The other three friends looked at him with confusion. They asked him, “Don’t you want anything else? Don’t you have any dreams or ambitions?”

The fourth friend smiled and said, “No, I don’t. I have everything I need. I’m content with what I have and grateful. I don’t compare myself to others.”

The other three friends were speechless. They realized that they had been chasing after illusions and that they had missed the point of the Science of Mind.”

They looked at the fourth friend with admiration and curiosity. They asked him, ” How did you do it? How did you manifest happiness and health so easily?

The fourth friend said, “I didn’t do anything. I just let go and let God. I trusted the Universe and followed my intuition. I didn’t write down what I wanted. I wrote down what I am.

He showed him his paper. It read: “I AM HAPPY AND HEALTHY.” —(Story courtesy of Bing)

Q) What do you call a group of people who use their minds to create their reality?

A) Science of Mind Mastermind group.

Courtesy of CSLT is our very own Mastermind group. We are a group who meet on Zoom and share ideas, insights, goals, challenges, and feedback. Most important, we hold intentions for each other. We help each other grow and achieve success in our personal and professional lives. Let us know if you’d like to join our group, we are welcoming to all!

Q) How many mastermind group members does it take to change a light bulb?

A) None. We just affirm the light is on.

–Madeline Pallanes

We Plan and God Laughs….

Welcome 2024 and thank you CSLT for the opportunity to serve as your Spiritual Leader. In the words of Socrates, “The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new.” Or, a simpler statement might be, “we plan, and God laughs.”

A year ago, I had no idea walking through the doors of the LTW last March would place me on a trajectory path of becoming your new minister. What I knew at the time, is I fell in love with a spiritual community, and I hoped I would be asked back to speak. Over the course of last year while you were creating your covenant of intention, I was playing the role of a teacher in a Montessori school in Tempe. (Having left my pulpit and Center of 12 years in California, because I decided to get married.) I thought being a schoolteacher was my “new ministry” working with kids and I was okay with my new role.

However, my 5-year plan of the Montessori assignment was to be cut short after only a year, as “God was calling” again. I received two “nudges” during this last year from “the universe” to go back into ministry. It’s as if God gives me a few hints of where I should be, and I often have chosen to say, “eh, later” and push it aside.

Not the right answer, you don’t ignore the universal “I have this for you.” In my experience, the third nudge is usually a drastic change when the spiritual 2 x 4 hits me, sending me flying into my purpose.

The positive side of my flying lesson was everything began aligning for my husband Charles and I to be here near Tucson. A home we had admired for months became available for purchase, and we did. As we went through the process, I began looking at the school district to teach within a Montessori school.

However, the next nudge came in a call to action from a dear friend and colleague telling me, “Tucson is waiting for you, you need to apply for their pulpit.” After many heart-leading discussions, Charles, a retired UCC minister encouraged me to apply as the window of opportunity was closing quickly. In September, with a week left, I did.

As I filled out the spiritual leader documents to be sent to the search committee, I discovered the God presence within me was calling me to my highest good. My heart has always been in ministry, and it took a small but mighty spiritual community to be that light of “this is your purpose” leading me out of the dark hallway of “what’s next?”

It is with a grateful heart, I look forward to being your spiritual leader, teaching not just the principles of Science of Mind, but other faith traditions, and how all interact together in the great metaphysical beingness in our daily lives. Religious Science is truly a philosophy of how to live in unconditional love and be unconditional love to all we interact with.

Ernest Holmes our Founder wrote in his book, Can We Talk to God? “Of what value would a religion or philosophy be to the world which simply taught it a few laws of cause and e8ect, or how to heal a pain? This is good and wonderful, but unless it teaches how to live and how to be, unless it gives something which is a divine certainty of life and being, it is useless.” (p.11.2)

I look forward to our relationship of not just Sunday celebrations but classes, holidays, and the unknown unscripted adventures of the heart. Please know my door is always open when I am in my o]ice at Craycroft, and reachable through email if you require support for any life situation. I love you all, and thank you for all that you are, and all that you are becoming. I look forward to getting to know every one of you!

–In love and gratitude, Rev. Rhonda

Gratitude 2

Gratitude is one of the chief graces of human existence and is crowned in heaven with a consciousness of unity. (Ernest Holmes, The Hidden Power of the Bible, 171)

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I am going to Piggy back on Chris’ blog from last week using the practice of Gratitude Rainshower. (Join Sharon on Tuesday November 28th at 6:30 p.m.on our Zoom channel).

I am grateful for the cooler weather and the migrating birds that have appeared at the feeders outside my window. I am grateful for the Source of all creation for creating the world of symmetry, balance, harmony, beauty, of stillness and movement.

I am grateful for a home, and a partner to share it with, and with friends. I am grateful for eyes to see, ears to hear, for health and vitality.

I am grateful for our CSLT community which helps me deepen my relationship with the One Infinite Mind, through our studies, reminders, music, and interactions.

I am grateful for Sharon inviting speakers, and for the speakers coming to our community to reveal their relationship with Spirit.

I am grateful for Rev. Dr. Kathy Hearn coming in March to lead our co-creation process with our congregation, revealing that Wholeness is the top quality we want for our center. And for the beautiful Sacred Covenant we have spoken for the last 9 months.

I am grateful for all the work of the Nominating Committee for creating the video and profile for calling in our new minister, and the guidance of Rev Julie in the process of putting all the pieces together for our posting on Open Pulpit.

I am grateful for the board’s time, talent and treasure making sure all the behind-thescenes work gets to keep the business of CSLT working.

I am grateful for our Sunday Services the musicians, hosts, greeters, LTW technicians, altared states providing a beautiful setting, meditation leaders, speakers, and participants, live and on Zoom.

I am grateful for you all….

–Maria

Thanksgiving Becomes Gratitude

November and the holiday known to Americans as Thanksgiving rolls around every year. We reflect on many aspects of the history and the holiday. Eat variations of a feast. Often make statements to the effect that another year has flashed by. Then set our sights on the next holiday, Christmas. While I was preparing for this article, I checked the etymology of Thanksgiving. Then I looked at early American history and some of the stories that surround the initialization of events that led to the creation of the holiday. Interesting Site Here

The recovery communities often suggest gratitude practices to temporarily alleviate old attitudes and behaviors long enough to begin replacing them with healthier ones.

Gratitude practices can help you focus on the positive aspects of life, which can lead to a happier and healthier you. Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Gratitude can be instrumental in centering yourself and helping focus into the present. There are many ways to integrate gratitude into your life, such as:

• Keeping a Gratitude Journal: This involves writing down three things you’re grateful for each day. It helps in focusing on positive aspects and cultivates a habit of noticing things to be thankful for.

• Expressing Thanks to Others: Showing appreciation to people, whether friends, family, or strangers, can strengthen relationships and spread positivity.

• Reflecting on Positive Experiences: Taking time to recall and appreciate the good things that happened during the day helps in acknowledging and being thankful for those moments.

• Noticing Abundance: Being mindful of the abundance in your surroundings, whether it’s nature’s beauty, opportunities, or other resources, and expressing gratitude for them.

• Attending Gratitude Events like “Gratitude Rainshowers” at Tucson’s CSL: Participating in events focused on gratitude can be a communal way to celebrate and practice gratitude. The next Gratitude Rainshower is Gratitude Rainshowers

• Don’t forget the apps. If a nudge is needed now and again or you prefer the digital realm there are quite a few apps that can facilitate gratitude formulation.

• For a quick set of gratitude prompts ask chatgpt “What should I be grateful for?”

Engaging in a practice of gratitude aligns with research that shows how gratitude positively impacts mental health, relationships, and overall happiness. Integrating gratitude into daily routines can gradually cultivate a mindset centered on appreciation and positivity. Gratitude becomes really easy with a small amount of practice.

–Chris Wheeler

Celebrating the Ancestors

Samhain, Halloween, All Saints Day, Día de los Muertos – it is the season when it is believed the veil between the living and the dead becomes thin. It is a time to celebrate and remember those who have come before, the good and the not so good, all of those who have contributed to who we are today.

I first became personally aware of Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) when I moved to Bakersfield. Every year there was a celebration with food and music, shopping, and my favorite, ofrendas, the family altars remembering those who have passed. As a gringa I wondered if I could fully participate in what has become, for me, a blessed celebration. Worried about being politically correct, and sensitivities to cultural appropriation, I thought about how I celebrate my ancestors. First, a brief history of the holiday.

Indigenous people everywhere had and continue to have rituals honoring their ancestors. Samhain is a pagan festival that is centuries old and is still celebrated by Wiccans and Pagans around the world. As Christianity moved around the world, Samhain was appropriated as All Saints Day, celebrating the Catholic Saints. All Hallows Eve became Halloween (with its own origin story). When the Conquistadors arrived in the Americas they brought their Christian celebrations with them, overlaying All Saints Day on a centuries old Aztec ritual and celebration. This, over time, became Día de los Muertos celebrated through much of South America.

At the heart of the Día de los Muertos celebration is the ofrenda. On Saturday, I attended a workshop at a local Pagan/Metaphysical store on “How to build an ancestor altar.” They suggested several points on why it is important to honor our ancestors. First, creating an altar helps us build spiritual connection with those who have come before. Next, it is a beautiful way of honoring and preserving our cultural traditions of how we celebrate our loved ones who have passed. Creating an altar helps us to heal and have closure with those who have left with unfinished business. Our ancestors provide blessings and protection. Finally, they say honoring our ancestors helps to create balance and harmony between the living and the dead.

So this year, rather than carving pumpkins, I am creating my own ofrenda. I started with finding a space that I can dedicate for the week. I selected a cloth to ground the space and am gathering photos and mementos of those I wish to honor. I’ve already pulled a beautiful picture out of a photo album of my father and his father, my grandpa, that I am now looking at. It fills my heart with joy to see these two men together in my home.

From Ernest Holmes: “According to Unity of Mind, thought is everywhere present, and so long as it persists it will remain present. Time, space, and obstructions are unknown to Mind and thought. …If we persist after the body shall have suffered physical death (and we are convinced that we shall) this law must still hold good, for past and present are one and the same in Mind.” The Science Of Mind 352.

I invite you to set aside some time this week to thank your ancestors. We wouldn’t be here without them.

–Sharon Whealy, RScP

Friends

Friend [frend] (noun) – a person one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection.

Due to recent events, I have been thinking a lot about friends and friendship lately. Just as there are different types of love, there are many different types of friends.

I celebrated my birthday last month. That always brings phone calls from friends I’ve known for a very long time, some of whom I may only talk to once or twice a year. The conversations flow as if we had just spoken yesterday. We catch each other up, talk about what is on our hearts or just chatter. An hour or two goes by before we finally say goodbye.

Last week I traveled to Prescott at the request of a dear friend to attend her party. To see her face light up when I entered was priceless and filled me with just as much joy. A long hug followed. Hopefully it won’t be years before we do that again.

The day after the party I stopped by the Unity Church I attended when I lived up north. I caught up to a girlfriend where we talked about our spiritual journeys that have led us both to CSL. Another familiar face just embraced me and smiled.

And there are the friends I talk to and see on a regular basis, sharing everyday events as they occur. We may chat about this and that or maybe simply sit in silence appreciating each other’s presence.

My acupuncturist and I have a unique relationship. I spend about 40 minutes with her every other week. We’ve come to know a lot about each other’s lives and likes/dislikes over the decade I’ve been seeing her. I count her as a friend also, especially when she came out of Covid retirement to treat me.

There’s the neighbor I wave to on my morning walk and the one I invite over for dinner. And the favorite barista who knows how you like your coffee without having to ask. They serve it to you with a smile as you wish them a good morning, enriching each of their days.

“If you are going to gain anything in life, gain a friend. They will always be there and that makes all the difference in the world.” finetofab.com

“Good friends are like stars: you don’t always see them, but you know they are there.”

“A silent communication takes place at all times between friends.” SOM 421.4

–Janet Salese

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