Last night I attended the Mass of Resurrection for a former colleague and longtime educator, Sister Joan. This woman religious was an inspirational, courageous, and faith-filled person with a force of personality grounded in her fierce sense of humor. The sense of appreciation and admiration was palpable, a testament to Sister Joan’s friendships, love, andContinue reading “To “let go and let God” is to put yourself into the hands of God, even for just a little while, until the challenges of life are more bearable. —Diana L. Hayes”
Author Archives: drmikedaniels
Our greatest joy is when we seek to do good for others. -Archbishop Desmond Tutu
Yet again my children provided me with such refreshing perspective this morning. Today was the first day at a new school for my youngest kids, and they were so impressive. My youngest son and my daughter modeled courage, optimism and faith. I am grateful. The good they did for me carries me forward, and IContinue reading “Our greatest joy is when we seek to do good for others. -Archbishop Desmond Tutu”
The truth must dazzle gradually or every person be blind. -Emily Dickinson
Here’s a reflection from my inbox this morning, thanks to IgnatianSpirituality.com. On the front porch, perched upon a worn wooden table and leaning against a bowl filled with water bottles, stood the sign: “Delivery Folks: Cold Water. Thank you!” Waiting there in the shade, I marveled at my friend’s kindness. “Kathy, you are so thoughtful!”Continue reading “The truth must dazzle gradually or every person be blind. -Emily Dickinson”
“Built By Black History.” -NBA Celebration of Black History Month
I was fortunate to recently attend a Golden State Warriors game and, among many impressions, I was left inspired by the warm-up gear and attire of the teams. All of these steps acknowledged the impact and legacy of black women and men. We had great seats with an insightful view into the effort, hard workContinue reading ““Built By Black History.” -NBA Celebration of Black History Month”
Serving people means growing their capacity and implies that everyone can contribute. – Juana Bordas
In How to Become a Servant Leader, the following practices were cited by authors Bob Vanourek and Gregg Vanourek: Listening: acknowledging the viewpoint of followers and validating these perspectives. Empathy: standing in the shoes of others and seeing things from their point of view. Healing: in helping followers become whole, servant leaders are themselves healed. Awareness: understanding oneself and the impactContinue reading “Serving people means growing their capacity and implies that everyone can contribute. – Juana Bordas”
At God’s table of life, all peoples know peace and creation flourishes. – Leslie Penrose
Last night I came across the Westminster United Church on Twitter along with a recent prayer resource from its worship services. I am not familiar with this congregation although I was drawn to the readings and resources provided on-line. Their mission statement describes their community as “an inclusive church for Progressive Christians…Creating something beautiful forContinue reading “At God’s table of life, all peoples know peace and creation flourishes. – Leslie Penrose”
Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilization. – Mahatma Gandhi
This Gandhi quote was shared during an evening Zoom last night, and I recently viewed this depicted prayer on Twitter. Again I find myself working from home, with in-person meetings and travel temporarily postponed for a few weeks. I give thanks for the privilege of my family, our health and my own ability to telecommute.Continue reading “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and test of our civilization. – Mahatma Gandhi”
The people we love are the foundation for all else. -Samantha Power
Over Christmas break, one of the books I enjoyed reading was The Education of An Idealist. The author Samantha Power served as UN Ambassador during the Obama administration, among other roles. Her powerful story of emigrating from Ireland, becoming involved in international humanitarian aid, and balancing the demands of parenthood, partnership and power was aContinue reading “The people we love are the foundation for all else. -Samantha Power”
Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. -Muhammad Ali
“On grace and gratitude” is how a recent meeting opened for me. The theme to this opening prayer compelled me to think in thanksgiving of all those working so diligently and thoughtfully to support my family and me. From the crossing guard, to the garbage collector, to the educational therapist, to the volunteer CYO basketballContinue reading “Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth. -Muhammad Ali”
Give thanks to the Lord, for God is good, for God’s mercy endures forever. – Psalms 118
In recent weeks I have been privileged to enjoy multiple opportunities to reflect upon the significance of giving thanks. In community with family and friends, here in California and across the country in cities like Baltimore and Philadelphia, I have been blessed to safely gather with loved ones. This Advent especially, I am grateful forContinue reading “Give thanks to the Lord, for God is good, for God’s mercy endures forever. – Psalms 118”
