When I look at the world around me I sometimes get overwhelmed by the sadness, hopelessness, and violence that are ever-present in some people’s lives. I see the great need and wonder how I can possibly make a change. Also, how can I continue Spirit in Action’s important work when it seems to make a small dent in the overall need?
First, it is important to think of everything as making baby steps towards progress. Each relationship I build is an opportunity to encourage people and give them (and myself) hope. Each one person I help then has the opportunity to go and positively affect someone else.
I am by nature a “glass half-full” type of person and I gain energy by thinking about the possible goodness of a situation, rather than worry about all the things that could go wrong. Still, keeping this attitude takes faith and reassurance that must be renewed everyday. Del Anderson talked about needing fresh manna everyday. In 2005, at the age of 99, he wrote, “Day by day is growth, change, fresh manna each day. Yesterday’s manna is not good enough for today.”
One way that I take in this fresh manna is through Unity’s Daily Word emails. Each morning I get to read a positive, uplifting spiritual message with an affirmation from the Bible. Some of the regular topics are peace, praying for others, inspiration, and guidance, all of which are so closely related to my work with Spirit in Action.
I have one particularly inspiring email taped in front of my desk so that I see it often. It builds me up in the morning and prepares me for a day of loving interaction with the world.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010 — EnergyI am energized by the power of God within me. Energy is the inherent power of God within that responds to my desire to accomplish things. In whatever I do today, I am expressing the power, vigor and strength of God. I am God-energy in action. I am a force for good, expressing my talents in positive ways. I am mindful of the balance between work and rest, giving and receiving, striving to accomplish and letting things work out in their own time. Energized by the power of God within, I discern what is mine to do, and I accomplish it as Spirit directs. From the smallest step to the longest journey, I know the spirit of God goes before me to guide my way. I move forward with confidence and gratitude. The God who has girded me with strength has opened wide my path.–2 Samuel 22:33
Don’t you feel ready to take on the world with that vote of confidence? I do!
