The live music ceased.
The hugs disappeared. The worship paused. The businesses wavered. Give Thanks Anyway. The table is empty. The shoulders are tight. The friend is struggling. The account is dwindling. Give Thanks Anyway. The mask helps. The Zoom introduces. The commute is less. The family is present. Give Thanks Anyway. The quarantine teaches. The neighbor offers. The alone time is reflective. The pause is not so bad. Give Thanks Anyway. The divide is real, not imagined. The conflict continues within. The work God is doing is evident. The choice to embrace it is mine. Give Thanks Anyway. All Saints Sunday, November 1, 2020 from 12:30 - 4:30 PM at Lebanon First UMC in Lebanon, Tennessee. You're invited to join us for a reflective day apart offering space for God's wisdom through presence, intentional silence, and words from the Saints before us. Space is limited to 20 participants, please RSVP to save your spot. Your registration and $15 check must be received by 10/23/20 (or until the retreat is full). Our day retreat will be socially distanced with plenty of room outdoors (bring a lawn chair, a blanket, pillow, or anything that makes you comfortable settling in for reflection). You'll receive a journal, guided prayer prompts, access to a hot beverage station and a warm fire. In case of inclement weather, please bring a mask for safety of all participants so that we may enjoy reflection time in the sanctuary and chapel. This event is open to the entire community and is hosted by Lebanon First UMC. Our time in reflection will be facilitated by Whitney R. Simpson of Exploring Peace Ministries. To Register:
How's your focus and attention these days? Believe it or not, mine has found a renewed sense of clarity in the season of this pandemic. While there is plenty to overwhelm my body and my spirit (the hurts of our world, the effects of a mysterious virus, the longing to end racism) there is a new pace that helps me be more mindful and present.
Slowing down came naturally to me after my stroke and brain surgery 15 years ago. Honestly, I didn't have a choice. My ability to multitask ceased and life as I knew it shifted drastically. Not that long ago, I reflected and lamented with a friend about this longing to again juggle too many balls in the air. As she listened, she told me, "what a gift this experience of forced slowing down was for you!" And, I realized she was right. I am re-opening this gift of slowing down. Will you join me? How are you intentionally slowing down in this season? What gifts are you discovering in the midst of a pandemic? |
Whitney R. SimpsonClick to connect: Categories
All
Content @ 2010-2023
Whitney R. Simpson Exploring Peace Ministries, LLC |