Some of the residents in our Guest House visited Opryland Hotel last week to enjoy the view!

December 8

A Poem by our Founder, Charles Strobel

It's such a fleeting, vaporish feeling--it seems...

Yet surprisingly, it comes nonetheless,

In the stopping and pausing moments

When traffic lights and long lines leave us

Rushing against the wind. 

I sometimes wish there was a signal that went off

For others to see whenever those moments occur. 

Maybe a blue light on top of our heads. 

A sort of neon sermon. 

Then when the rest of us didn't see the light on our own head lit up,

But only a blue light on someone else's head--

We would pause to stop and think...

Or at least to realize our own peace meter wasn't lit, 

Calling us to do something about

Whatever was causing us turmoil.

What often happens is we fail to see the people who are at peace

Walking with and among us. 

I hope they are around you this new year,

Because they are windows to the world we so desire.

Try to notice your moments of peace today - when you can center yourself regardless of what is happening around you. When you notice that peace within yourself, try to turn on your "peace meter," as Charlie wrote, by sharing that peace with someone else. Maybe that looks like inviting a coworker to sit and have lunch with you, or asking a friend if they've had a chance to take a deep breath today. Maybe you even pick a favorite peaceful song and share it with a loved one. However you do it, try to find your peace today and share it with others.

To center yourself for prayer today, take 3 big breaths - in and out - and recognize God's presence always already with you.

Spirit of Peace,

Help us to notice Your presence in our lives.

Be as close to us as our own breath, and

Fill us to the brim with Your unconditional love

So that we much love to share with our neighbors.

Amen