Image by reenablack from Pixabay

(Written Wednesday morning February 25th 2025)

This morning I awoke early, too early considering I had slept just a few hours. My being was filled with physical pain and so much to do. I sat down with my tea and a book of reflections, “Embers” by Richard Wagamese. Richard began by reminding me of the wonder and peace of beginning my day with God and silence (my words, not his). Here are my thoughts from those few moments of following Richard’s advice, of “being still with God.”

I begin with gratitude. Yesterday was more than a good day, actually. I attended the annual meeting of the Shining Waters Presbyterial of United Church Women. Across the whole church, these wonderful groups amaze with fun and love for one another. Of course, they are human so sometimes, they can even be like me, grumpy, occasionally overwhelmed by life, and even just plain tired.

I had hoped for a good time at the meeting. I was not disappointed. The keynote speaker, Barb DeJeet, offered stories, laughter, and assurance of faith, just what most of us, I in particular, needed.

When Barb finished, to my surprise, I was invited to speak about my books. I opened with, “How many of you already have one or more of my books?” A sea of hands greeted me. Great, I thought, I won’t sell any here today. To my surprise, I sold fifteen books. Several of the women stopped by my book table to affirm my writing. They celebrated the fact that “Dipping Your Toes, Too” would be published this spring. They were ready to buy it that day.  There were so many great conversations. At one point, I was able to listen and care for one of these lovely women in her grief. And besides all this, lunch as usual was delicious.

This morning as I felt my pain, my gratitude for yesterday’s wonderful day fed my hungry soul. As I sat with God, I gave thanks also for two telephone calls. Two of my adult children called just because they love Tom and me and wanted to catch up on our week so far.

My mind shifted to today. I was to have my back x-rayed. My old back fracture woke me up with pain. I gave thanks for our precious health care system that allowed me and everyone else here in Canada, the health care we need.

My last bit of gratitude was ending the love and support I receive from my partner, husband, companion, Tom.

My stillness, my silence with God had filled my soul with light and goodness. Thank you, Richard Wagamese, for turning my troubled mind to gratitude, for reminding me of the gift of silence. I therefore offer you a share of the same. gift.  Spend time today in stillness with our loving God. Stretch your mind to gratitude for all you have, all the conversations you have enjoyed, all the people in your life that have brought you joy. Just try it. I guarantee that it will be life-giving. May it be so for you today and every day.