Friends,
I’m honored to be asked to preach at the UU Church of Lancaster this coming Sunday, filling in for their minister who’s on leave. They’ve asked me to preach about the Search Process of finding a new clergyperson, and what they might do to prepare for a successful search. My advice to them is the same advice I give to us and to myself- be courageous and vulnerable throughout.
I’ve been reading and listening to Brene Brown’s work, and something she mentions keeps coming back to me: she states that the research and data indicate that the number one indicator of resilient people and institutions, the best predictor of who can or cannot deal with change, hurt, letdown, trauma, or grief…..is gratitude. Those who practice gratitude are more able to weather life’s storms and remain in a state of connection and belonging with their people.
I’m taking that to heart, and here’s what I’m going to do throughout the month of November. I’m going to write as many notes of gratitude as I can, at least one a day, and give them to people in my life. I’m going to mention specifics of what I value and feel thankful for in others, and practice some vulnerability in letting them know that I see them, see you, and that I appreciate them, appreciate you. A core commitment for my life is that good deeds can never be overabundant, and when they are genuine and deep, I think they can be transformational.
I hope you’ll join me in this 30 Days of Gratitude. Not all the notes need be given to people. You might simply journal everyday about what or for whom you are grateful. You might write small poems. You might post on social media. You might tell one another in person.
The theme of this month is Attention. May we pay attention to ourselves, each other, and our world with as much gratitude as we can muster. Because good deeds can never be overabundant, and as Brene Brown says, the greatest gift and privilege is to really see one another to be really seen. May it be so. Amen!
The theme of this month is Attention. May we pay attention to ourselves, each other, and our world with as much gratitude as we can muster. Because good deeds can never be overabundant, and as Brene Brown says, the greatest gift and privilege is to really see one another to be really seen. May it be so. Amen!
Rev. McKinley L. Sims, M.Div. 
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