Like many people, Mike and I are traveling today to be with loved ones for Thanksgiving. This is not a large portion of the family, nor will it involve preparing the feast or arriving at a kitchen filled with enticing aromas; still, it will be sweet to be together with these two dear ones. It will also be lovely to dine in a lovely restaurant and enjoy the relaxation and appreciation of letting the professionals cook for us!
Every year is different, and, as I recall the days of preparing for very large family feasts, cooking and baking in advance, then scurrying around to have everything on the table at the same time, I delight in the memories and am grateful for how times change. The important part of the occasion is experiencing real gratitude and sharing love and appreciation with each other. We remember, too, to “give thanks in all things.”
We are also reminded this week, in stores and on social media, that we are in the thick of the Holiday Season, with Hanukkah occurring next week and Christmas just a month away. Rather than feeling the pressures of time and expense, let’s simply enter more deeply into the real “reason for the season” and celebrate the light of faith and the wonder of new birth. Entering into joy, not only for our own celebrations, but also for the observances of others, is the first step in not only coping with the holidays but in letting our hearts and souls be lifted in delight.
Our Sunday morning Celebrations continue in person at 10:30 A.M., and we follow CDC recommendations for everyone’s safety and wellbeing, including wearing masks indoors. You also have the option of tuning in virtually by going to our website, cslphilly.org, and clicking on the orange “watch live” button to be with us. Do scroll through the website to see upcoming events and past Celebrations, as well as archived Love Notes from Rev. Mike and me. If you come in person, you may enjoy a brief meditation time with our Practitioner of the Day at 10:00 A.M. in the “Upper Room.” Our topic this Sunday is, “Until Further Notice . . . Celebrate Everything!”
On our website’s Practitioner Page, you will also find contact information for our Practitioners and Practitioner Intern who are happy to support you in affirmative prayer and individual sessions for any challenge you may be experiencing or for a greater good you may desire to manifest.
With great love and respect,
Dr. Maxine