Planet earth has often been compared to a classroom. It is here we learn to move through the material, physical realm, while completely dependent on the invisible, spiritual realm of our lives. The phrases, “we are in this world, but not of it,” and “we are spiritual beings, having a human experience,” describe this phenomenon.  Even the biblical phrase, “In my Father’s house there are many mansions,” suggests the various levels, or grades of awareness one may experience while traveling through this thing called life. 

Staying with the classroom metaphor for a moment, imagine with me how we gradually move from one self-created experience to another. Each stage providing a lesson that seems like a balancing act of our feelings, thoughts, and emotions in response to what is happening in our lives.  At the same time, the challenge is to cultivate the ability to stay in alignment with the Love, Peace, Harmony, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Joy of the Spirit. It is a process of moving to higher and higher states of consciousness; i.e., a continuous ascension from glory to glory. 

When I was a child, there was a little ditty taught in Sunday School that you may have learned as well. It went like this: “Count your blessings, name them one by one. Count your blessings, see what God has done. Count your blessings! Name them one by one! Count your many blessings, see what God has done!”

What a wonderful foundation it establishes in the mind of the young one! The instructions for this spiritual practice are very clear. It is one of focus and intention, resulting in a realization of Truth.   The “catchy” tune is inviting, making the process a joyful experience. 

Throughout the years, one may begin to remember overcoming a serious health challenge; or, experiencing the healing power of love; or, the blessing of financial sufficiency received in an hour of need.

Obviously, the simple lesson is to remember the many times we have experienced spontaneous grace. In so doing, there is a tendency of restored peace, faith, and harmony to the mind. The practice becomes an avenue through which more and more good flows.  Soon we move into a state of deep gratitude. 

Ernest Holmes defines “appreciation, gratitude and thanksgiving as the motive power which attracts and magnifies the hidden potentialities of life.” He also teaches,” there is something in this attitude of thanksgiving that carries us beyond the field of doubt into one of perfect faith and acceptance, receptivity…realization.”  

These lessons support us tremendously as we move through the apparent uncertainty, separation, and division of the human experience, both individual and collective that are all around us. While we do not put our heads in the sand, ignoring the out picturing of these circumstances; we do not fall prey to the belief of hopelessness. Instead, we move with confidence, doing what is ours to do; while remembering God’s unlimited grace. 

In such a moment, the former things fall away … providing a space for the greater-yet-to-be to unfold. The Presence and Power of Unlimited Potential is within every one of us.

Let us join hands in the awareness that All is One, and the only time is Now, singing our new song:

“I am so blessed. I am so blessed.
I am so grateful for all that I have.
I am so blessed. I am so blessed.
I am so grateful. I am so blessed.”

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This Weeks Affirmation

“I am so grateful and blessed for the opportunity to live a life of love, joy, and peace.”

Keith Childers