One of the most beloved Christian hymns is John Rutter’s, “For the Beauty of the Earth”. It is a lovely reminder of the divine magnificence available to us at all times if we are willing to step outside and lift our gaze beyond our mundane tasks. People of all faiths can appreciate the simple lyrics which give pause to the exquisite beauty found everywhere in nature: For the beauty of the earth For the beauty of the skies For the love which from our birth Over and around us

We share the planet with 8.7 million species of animals on land and in water Europe, Friends of the Earth, and this month we formally recognize, appreciate, and celebrate their magnificence and the ways they enrich our lives. “Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened.” - Anatole France Internationally, we recognize World Animal Day on October 4 which coincides with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of birds and animals. Firs

Giving thanks is not a means to an end; it is an evolved way of being. To give of our time, talent and/or treasure with loving awareness means that we focus our intentions before, during and after the act of giving. To be conscious in all we think, do and have is the aspiration of most of us on an openly spiritual journey. But maintaining a state of high awareness isn't always as easy as it sounds. It takes commitment, discipline and devotion to being mindful and authentic, e

For those of us in the northern hemisphere, the earth turns to winter this month and we tend to turn away from our activities and perhaps even from each other as we nestle in our warm homes. As we near the shortest day of the year (which is not a true measure of time but an appearance of light or the lack thereof), life can feel harsh, cold and dark; the antithesis of what most of us strive to feel in our daily experience. Intellectually, we know there is no place that God

Love letters are the stuff of heart’s desire; the communiques of deepening connection between kindred spirits. Some are sentimental, some are sweet, and some confess a passion too bold to voice out loud. Though we typically think love letters are only for paramours, we can enjoy these special valentines between the many types of loves with whom we are blessed - from the loyal amity of philia love shared between friends to the selfless purity of agape love for all. And most

Defining moments typically involve a decision to change some aspect of our lives in order to gain a better experience. These pivot points in life can be a new beginning, the continued growth of our good, or the end of what no longer serves us well. Yet when these opportunities present themselves, we sometimes stall out with indecision, confusion, and uncertainty. Fear of the unknown is one of the biggest roadblocks to positive change. It may seem easier to sidestep the d

Hints of spring spark the desire for fresh air and sunshine. Yet as we open the windows of our homes, our minds, and our souls to increasing light and new possibility, we often realize how cluttered, dusty, and crusty our lives have become – inside and out. Spring cleaning is more than an annual ritual for the physical home; it is an on-going opportunity to revitalize our spiritual lives, encourage personal growth, and prepare for all of the bountiful blessings awaiting our

Atonement is the spiritual practice of restitution that repairs our souls and reclaims our wholeness with Divine Love. Spiritually, atonement or “at-one-ment” is to be in the state of – unity – as the result of an action. When we misspeak or misstep, whether unconsciously or on purpose, we create fissions from our essential wholeness, the union of humanity and divinity within ourselves, others, and with God. Fortunately, we can re-establish Oneness through atonement.