Thought for the Week of May 28, 2012

"Balance Part II"

Passion and conviction have at times caused my purpose to become a little less clear than I would prefer. When I feel strongly about an idea, I have to remember to breath, and remain centered in peace. Sometimes I fail. When I don't fail, the exchange of thoughts and ideas flow without or at least with less tension. Coming from a place of balance, grace and peace helps to create an open and more accepting reception to what might otherwise be a contentious exchange.

Our ego demands that we be "the winner". In reality, both parties growing in relationship and understanding, is the best result, and the closer path to re-presenting Christ.

When I was young, I remember a former boss saying she did not like my attitude. I didn't understand, because we had minimal conversation. Emotional energy was something that I was just beginning to understand.

Having balance in verbal and non- verbal communications is how perceptions are created related to "who" we are, and what value we have to the people we interact with on a daily basis. It's hard if not impossible to hide emotional energy from those perceptive enough to recognize the whole person, yet some people are oblivious, as I once was, to that existence. I once read somewhere that non-verbal communication is 80% responsible for the successful exchange of information. 

Being open and hospitable, even vulnerable to everyone with whom we come in contact, is a conscious choice and is not sometimes our natural ego driven pre-disposition.

Be mindful of your whole presence. It's not hard to offer a smile, or a kind gesture. Try it and see if your day doesn't go just a little better.  I had a discussion with a friend about Karma, and even though it’s an “Eastern” philosophy, it makes sense to me. Just like most things in life, whatever you put out there, is what you get back. That philosophy makes me mindful and very thankful for God’s grace. J

“And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”

~2 Corinthians 12:9 New American Standard Version

Peace and Grace!!!

Scott

Thought for the Week of May 7, 2012

"Transition in Stability"

Every year this time is emotionally charged for many people because of major transitions in reality, direction, and life in general. It is the end of a school year, the time for new appointments in all of the conferences in the United Methodist Church for clergy, and the transition time from Spring to Summer. Do you ever find yourself feeling less than "on top" during transition periods? I know I have. Watching people I love going through the changes during this time causes me to reflect on my path, both past and the possibilities for the future. This year because of the relationships I have created, was really less stable for me, than any previous years, at least that is my perception. 

During this emotional downward spiral, while praying hard for some relief and guidance, I kept getting the thought to just let it go. Just let it go. Just let it go, I've got this.. sounds simple.. not sure why it was not. I was able to figure out why I was feeling the way I was, and I did have to let go of things that I was cycling and processing in my mind, to get to the point of understanding where this mental state originated . I don't know how common of an occurrence it is for other people, but sometimes I find myself overwhelmed with change, commitments, deadlines, circumstance, and a nagging hyper self-critical voice, all my own creation.

How do you handle being overwhelmed? Where do you find your stability in times of transition? I am blessed with a strong network of support in the form of associates, family and friends. If it weren't for the people that truly love me, it would be unlikely if not impossible for me to function at a level that would be acceptable to me. Letting go, turning it over to God, with the understanding that the Creator is truly in control, and that I need to walk in faith, was the lesson that I needed to re-learn this weekend. 

It's true that I do have a big "S" on my chest, but it stands for "Surrendered", not for "Superman". Indeed I have surrendered all to God, I just need to be reminded of that at times. God has provided, once again, the solution to my pain and turmoil, even before I knew I needed a solution.

God is SO good.

Celebrate coming transitions in your life and know that you will carry on. Do not hesitate to reach out to those that love you, including your family of faith at St. Luke's. God will provide. Just remember to breath and that you are unconditionally loved.

"He replied, "What is impossible for people is possible with God." ~ Luke 18:27 NLT

Peace and Grace

Scott