I’m delighted to share the wonderful news about our community! The Silent Auction was a resounding success, and I extend heartfelt gratitude to everyone who generously donated services or items. Without your contributions, this celebration wouldn’t be possible. Additionally, a remarkable $1,680 was raised for Phase I of our labyrinth renovation.
Looking ahead, Unity Fun Day and Campout promises to be an exciting event. Starting at 3 p.m. on Saturday, we’ll enjoy crafts, community, and camaraderie. In the evening, there’ll be a potluck, a cozy fire circle, s’mores, and drumming. For those opting to stay overnight, feel free to pitch a tent or find a comfortable spot to rest. The following morning, we’ll gather for our regular Sunday Celebration service at 10 a.m.
As we are nearing the end of the series The Soul of Money, this week’s lesson had so many great nuggets in it for all of us. The Legacy of Enough is focused on Lynne’s mother, who is nearing the end of her life. She has terminal cancer with just a few months to live, and she is choosing to focus on the blessings and abundance that is all around her.
She does a remarkable thing to show her appreciation for those who have served her over the years. She calls them, the owner of the cleaners, the staff, her favorite restaurant and servers and many others and shares her days are ending and she wants to thank them for their dedication to serving her. She invites them to attend her funeral and sit behind the family. When the time comes, they all show up.
Leaving a legacy is about more than money or material possessions. It’s the sum of what our lives have taught us and how we make others feel about themselves. Consider what matters most to you and why it’s important to “leave it behind.” Starting to leave a legacy of “enough” involves both inner reflection and outward action.
Here are some steps you might consider:
• Define Your Values: Reflect on what truly matters to you. What are your core values? What brings you a sense of fulfillment and purpose? These values will guide your actions.
• Practice Gratitude: Cultivate gratitude for what you have. Recognize the abundance in your life, whether it’s relationships, health, or simple pleasures. Gratitude shifts our focus from scarcity to sufficiency.
• Simplify: Strive for simplicity. Declutter your physical space, but also declutter your mind. Simplify your commitments, saying yes only to what aligns with your values.
• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when necessary. Boundaries protect your energy and prevent overwhelm. Prioritize self-care and balance.
• Create Meaningful Experiences: Have a time of storytelling with your children, grandchildren and other family members. Write letters to each of your children to be read after you leave this planet…
Remember, leaving a legacy isn’t about perfection — it’s about authenticity, impact, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.
I’m excited to share that my dear friend Karen Swasey Jones has authored an engaging activity book titled Your Walk in Rose’s Garden. In this beautifully crafted book, Karen invites us to explore life’s journey, stepping from one stone to another, and to reflect on our unique experiences.
Karen suggests hosting a Legacy Writing Workshop on her website, www.myseaofgrace.com. In this workshop we’ll come together in person to write about our life stories, creating a meaningful legacy for our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect, collaborate, and leave behind something truly special.
If you’re interested, please reach out to me. Let’s gather at least six participants and embark on this inspiring journey together. Karen herself is available to join us and share her insights on how she came to write this remarkable book.
If you missed the service on Sunday, you can watch it here.
Next week we will complete the book with the last chapter, “The Turning Tide.”
Know that you are so very loved and appreciated.
You are a blessing in my life,
Rev. Patricia Bessey
