presented by Fr. Richard S. Jones - Liturgical Publications · · 2017-09-12[Type here] Page 1...
Transcript of presented by Fr. Richard S. Jones - Liturgical Publications · · 2017-09-12[Type here] Page 1...
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presented by Fr. Richard S. Jones Pastor, St. Joseph Church, Coraopolis, PA
6:45 pm to 8:00 pm
Monday, September 11, 2017 – Spirituality
Monday, September 18, 2017 – Self-Esteem, Wonder, Friendship,
Courage
Monday, September 25, 2017 – Teachability, Tolerance, Joy,
Interdependence
Monday, October 2, 2017 – Perseverance, Freedom, Love,
Generativity
Monday, October 16, 2017 – Balance, Prayer, Forgiveness, Gratitude
Monday, October 23, 2017 – Playfulness, Commitment, Hope,
Restlessness
Week 1
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Table of Contents
Opening Prayer – A Prayer for Healing 3
Opening Song – Holy Ground Medley 4
Celebrate What’s Right with the World – a film made by DeWitt-Jones to “help folks approach life with confidence, grace and celebration.”
Meditation 5
“Christ the Healer” sculpture 6
Are you engaged in the process of spiritual wellness? 7
Spirituality Definition and Bible Quotes Talking Points
8
9 – 10
Counterparts 11
Song – Worn 12
Time Magazine – The Science of Happiness 13 – 21
What Makes Us Happy 14
Percentage of Groups Who Say They Are Very Happy 15
How Joy Affects Health 16
Health Habits for Happiness 17
Links Between Happiness and Health 18
Source of Happiness 19
The Geography of Happiness 20
What Influences Happiness 21
Improve Your Resiliency 22
Personal Goals & Experiments in Setting Up a Personal Wellness Plan 23 – 24
Water Invites 25 – 29
Self-Esteem Living Wholly, Holy, and Effectively 30
Spirit, Soul and Body – How God Designed Us - We Are A 3-Part Whole 31
The Human Person – An Overview 32
In Our World, We Have 33
A Whole Person 34 – 34
What Prevents Us from Becoming a Whole Person 36
Blocks/Hindrances to the Development of a Contemplative Outlook 37
Key Links in the Spirituality and Health Connection 38
Emotions Color Wheel 39
World of Emoticons 40
Desiderata 41
Movement from Compulsion to Contemplation 42
Emergency Phone Numbers 43
St. Faustina’s Praises of the Divine Mercy 44 – 45
Divine Mercy’s Prescription for Spiritual Health 46 – 47
A New Serenity Prayer 48
Spiritual Reading Quote by St. Ambrose/St. Augustine 49
Information on accessing Spiritual Health website 50
Closing Prayer 51
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Opening Prayer
A Prayer for Healing
Lord,
You invite all who are burdened to come to you.
Allow Your healing Hand to heal me.
Touch my soul with Your compassion for others;
touch my heart with Your courage and infinite Love
for all;
touch my mind with Your Wisdom,
and may my mouth always proclaim Your praise.
Teach me to reach out to You in all my needs,
and help me to lead others to You by my example.
Most loving Heart of Jesus,
bring me health in body and spirit
that I may serve You with all my strength.
Touch gently this life which you have created, now
and forever.
Amen.
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Opening Song
Holy Ground Medley (4:45) Sung by: Christopher Beatty and Geron Davis
Verse 1: This is holy ground
We're standing on holy ground
For the Lord is here
And where He is, is holy.
(Repeat Verse 1)
Verse 2: These are holy hands
He's given us holy hands
He works through these hands
And so these hands are holy
(Repeat Verse 2)
.(Repeat Verse 1 Twice)
Verse 3: We are standing on holy ground
And I know that there
Are angels all around.
Let us praise Jesus now.
We are standing in His presence
On holy ground
Verse 4: We are standing on holy ground
And I know that there
Are angels all around.
Let us praise Jesus now.
We are standing in His presence
We are standing in His presence
We are standing in His presence
On holy ground.
(Repeat Verse 1 Once)
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Meditation
Watch your thoughts;
for they become words.
Watch your words;
for they become actions.
Watch your actions;
for they become habits.
Watch your habits;
for they become character.
Watch your character
for it will become your destiny.
— Frank Outlaw Late President of the Bi-Lo Stores
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“Christ the Healer”
In 1977, Philip Picard (1935-2009) was commissioned by Mercy Hospital in
Pittsburgh to complete an original sculpture. This was after 3 years of study, prayer,
and artistry. Each scene has a particular reference to the New Testament of the
Bible. It represents the many facets of the “healing ministry” of Jesus Christ as he
walked our death.
1) John 13:1-20 – Last Supper – Washing Feet
2) Matthew 12:9-12 – Man with a Withered Hand on Sabbath
3) Luke 8:43-48 – Woman (Jairus’ daughter) Suffering of Hemorrhage-12 years old-touched
hem of garment
4) Mark 7:32-37 – Deaf Man Speech Impediment – touched tongue-“Ephphatha!”-be open
5) Luke 5:18-26 – Paralyzed Man – “lifted through roof”
6) John 2:1-11 – Wedding Feast of Cana – water into wine – 1st miracle
7) Matthew 15:32-37 – Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes
8) John 11:1-44 – Raising of Lazarus
9) Matthew 17:14-21 - Man a lunatic – falling into fire or water-devil comes out!
10) John 20:11-18 – Mary outside the tomb – Resurrection account “Rabbouni”-Teacher
11) Luke 13:10-17 – On Sabbath, Woman possessed for 18 years by a spirit – stooped over
12) Matthew 20:29-34 – Two Blind Men on the Side of the Road
13) Mark 5:1-20 – A man lived near tomb – evil spirit come out
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Are you engaged in the process of spiritual wellness? Evaluate your own spiritual wellness with this brief quiz.
Do I make time for relaxation in my day? Do I make time for meditation and/or prayer? Do my values guide my decisions and actions? Am I accepting of the views of others?
If you answered "No" to any of the questions, it may indicate an area where you need to improve the state of your spiritual wellness.
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Spirituality is the quality of being concerned with the human spirit or soul as
opposed to material or physical things. Religious aspects of the Christian life, i.e.,
prayer, penance and fasting.
If the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who
raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his Spirit
that dwells in you. (Romans 8:11)
Therefore, from the day we heard this, we do not cease praying for you and asking
that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and
understanding to live in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in
every good work bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God, (Colossians 1:9-
10)
The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness.
(Galatians 5:22)
And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always, the Spirit of truth, which the world cannot accept, because it neither sees nor knows it. But you know it, because it remains with you, and will be in you. (John 14:16-17) The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me; He has sent me to bring good news to the afflicted, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, release to the prisoners, (Isaiah 61:1)
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Spirituality o Traditionally stretched our relationship with God o Our spirituality can never be divorced from the time and place in which
we live o Spirituality is the style of a person’s response to Christ before the
challenge of everyday life Spirituality as Our Outlook on Life
o Individuals can view things in very different ways o Spirituality is our basic outlook on life o Our spirituality colors the way in which we look at everything o Spirituality is reflected in how we do so-called holy things, e.g., pray to
God, give alms to the poor, and forgive those who have wronged us o Spirituality also reflects how we do ordinary things, e.g., cross the street,
drive a car, eat a pizza
Spirituality: One, Unique and Ongoing o Christian spirituality has 3 characteristics:
o It is one o It is unique o It is ongoing
o Christian spirituality has its foundation in the death and resurrection of Jesus
o No two individuals have the same perspective on life o Our spirituality is never formed or finished o God is forever calling us to greater conversion.
God Asks: “Where You Are?” 1. How far along are you on your Christian journey?
Theological virtues are faith, hope, and love
Cardinal virtues are prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance.
To live virtuously is to trust totally in the providence of God.
The conversion of a contrite heart enables the regenerative experience of ongoing conversion.
Spirit, heart, mind, and will feel renewed, revived, and ready to radiate to values Christ teaches.
By loving God with all our heart, body, mind and spirit, we will then love our neighbor as we love ourselves.
After the initial phase of adoration, it goes through our mind, and then to our heart which helps form our character.
Pride is the basic inclination to believe that “I” or “we” can do it alone.
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The disobedience of Adam and Eve caused despair not joy, disruption not peace.
When showing compassion, first recourse is empathetic understanding, not condescending judgment.
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Counterparts
Self-Esteem vs. Insecurity Wonder vs. Disregard, Disinterest Friendship vs. Enemy Courage vs. Cowardice Teachability vs. Unskilled, Slow Tolerance vs. Disapproval, Prejudice Joy vs. Sadness Interdependence vs. Disassociation, Separation Perseverance vs. Fickle, Inconstant Freedom vs. Captivity, Confinement Love vs. Hate, Animosity Generativity vs. “Culture of Death”, Pro-Choice Balance vs. Instability, Imbalance Prayer vs. Anxiety, Curse Forgiveness vs. Accusation, Blame, Mercilessness Gratitude vs. Condemnation, Censure, Ingratitude Playfulness vs. Lethargic, Dispirited, Depressed Commitment vs. Broken Promise, Breach Hope vs. Doubt, Fear, Pessimism Restlessness vs. Calmness, Peace
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Song
Worn (4:01) Sung by: Tenth Avenue North
I'm tired, I'm worn, my heart is heavy
From the work it takes to keep on breathing
I've made mistakes, I've let my hope fail
My soul feels crushed by the weight of this world
And I know that you can give me rest
So I cry out with all that I have left
Let me see redemption win, let me know the struggle ends
That you can mend a heart that's frail and torn
I want to know a song can rise from the ashes of a broken life
And all that's dead inside can be reborn
'Cause I'm worn
I know I need to lift my eyes up but I'm too weak, life just won't let up
And I know that You can give me rest, so I cry out with all that I have left
Let me see redemption win. Let me know the struggle ends
That you can mend a heart that's frail and torn
I want to know a song can rise from the ashes of a broken life
And all that's dead inside can be reborn
Cause I'm worn
And my prayers are wearing thin
I'm worn even before the day begins
I'm worn, I've lost my will to fight
I'm worn so heaven so come and flood my eyes
Let me see redemption win, let me know the struggle ends
That you can mend a heart that's frail and torn
I want to know a song can rise from the ashes of a broken life
And all that's dead inside can be reborn
Yes all that's dead inside will be reborn
Though I'm worn
Yeah I'm worn
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What Makes Us Happy The roles we play in society influence where we fall on the happiness spectrum
Least Happy in Most Happy in
Their Jobs Their Jobs (Ranked by average (Ranked by average
happiness score) happiness score)
Gas Station Attendants
Roofers
Molding-machine operators
Construction Workers
Welfare service aides
Amusement park attendants
Maids
Food preparers
Auto-body repairers
Dry cleaner operators
Legal assistants
Bartenders
Dressmakers
Cashiers
Auto mechanics
Prison officers
Messengers
Door-to-door salespeople
Furniture salespeople
Photographers
Designers
Clothing sales
Hairdressers
Pharmacists
Soldiers
Clergy
Firefighters
Ticket agents
Architects
Special-ed. teachers
Actors/directors
Pilots
Butlers
Police
Realtors
Physicians
Economists
Electrical engineers
Car salespeople
Telephone line repairers
Dispatchers
Secretaries
Management analysts
Registered nurses
Athletes
Bus drivers
Psychologists
Bank Tellers
Farmers
Plumbers
Journalists
Currently Americans are:
Very Happy 30%
Pretty Happy 55%
Not Too Happy 15%
Source: General Survey by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago
(Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
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The Percentage of Groups who say they are very happy
Work Perhaps not surprisingly, it’s
significantly more difficult to
be happy while being involuntarily
out of work
Money Money can increase happiness,
yet rates of happiness have not
kept pace with the trend of
rising incomes
Family Overall, married people
are happier than unmarried
people. The results are less
clear when you add children
Worship Across faiths (and consistently
over decades), happy are
those who pack the pews
Politics Regardless of power shifts,
Republicans-particularly extreme
conservatives-have the
happiness edge
Age Youth is overrated. Here’s
Something to look forward
to: seniors tend to be among
the happiest adults
Source: General Survey by the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago
(Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
Retired 38%
Working full-time 33%
Working part-time 31%
Unemployed 18%
$150K + 47%
$75K - $150K 39%
$30K - $75K 30%
Under $30K 23%
Nearly every week 41%
Once a month 32%
Seldom or never 28%
65 + 38%
55 – 64 35%
35 – 44 33%
18 – 24 27%
Married without children 41%
Married with children 36%
Single parent 19%
Republicans 40%
Democrat 31%
Independent 30%
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How Joy Affects Health
We may have more control over our happiness – and physical well-being – than we think
Mapping other Emotions of the Body
Happiness Participants in a 2013
study reported
increased sensation
(red and yellow)
through the body in
response to
happiness.
Sadness
On the other hand,
participants reported
feeling decreased
sensation (blue) in all
of their limbs in
response to sadness.
EMOTIONS MAP
Body regions where sensation increases (warm colors) or
decreases (cool color) when feeling . . .
Source: Health News from NPR
http://www.npr.org/
Sources: Sonia Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness (2017); Lauri Nummenmaa et all.,
“Bookly Maps of Emotions;” PNAS (2014) (Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
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Healthy Habits for Happiness
Sleep More
Exercise
Get Outside
Eat More Fish
Stand Up Straight
Smile
People who get adequate sleep have a better shot
at achieving emotional well-being, according to a
2014 analysis. The happiest people get an
average of eight hours a night: 42% of US. S.
adults get less than the recommended minimum of
seven hours.
Physical activity boosts the actions of endorphins,
which may be natural mood enhancers, and not
only in the short term. Exercise is increasingly
becoming a standard part of treatment for major
depression and preventing relapses.
While it’s true that too much sun is a bad thing,
getting enough exposure may be important to
mental health. Studies have found that the
sunlight boosts synthesis of serotonin, a
neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and may
help combat depression.
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods such as cold-
water fatty fish, have been linked to a decreased
risk of mental disorders. In a review of 26
studies on the topic, researchers found that the
people who ate the most fish had a 17% lower risk
of depression than those who ate the least.
A 2014 study found that New Zealanders with
upright posture reported feeling more
enthusiastic, excited and strong. Their slumping
counterparts were more fearful, passive and
sleepy.
A 2012 study found that smilers enjoyed lower
heart rates during stress recovery and a smaller
drop in positive emotions during stressful tasks.
Research has even shown that artificially reducing
the ability to frown (through Botox) may help
relieve depression.
Sources: Sonia Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness (2017); Lauri Nummenmaa et all.,
“Bookly Maps of Emotions;” PNAS (2014) (Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
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Links Between Happiness and Health:
Heart health – A 2005 study found that the happiest
people had an average heart rate of about six fewer beats
per minute. In 2010 a study showed that over 10 years,
for every one-point increase in positive emotions (on a
five-point scale), a person’s risk of coronary heart disease
drops 22%.
Immunity – In one study, researchers assessed
volunteers on their tendency toward positive or negative
emotions and later exposed each person to rhinovirus; the
happier subjects were less likely to develop a cold.
Chronic Pain – Psychologists found that when women
suffering from osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia had more
positive emotions, they felt lower levels of pain in the
following weeks (and vice versa).
Obesity – Gallup published a 2010 report linking obesity
with lower emotional well-being. Among everyone, obese
people were most likely to experience stress, worry,
anger, and depression.
Longevity – Happiness may not cause longevity, recent
research suggests, but a lot of research has linked better
moods to a longer life, including a 2011 study that found
that unhappy seniors were twice as likely as their happier
peers to die within five years.
Sources: Sonia Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness (2017); Lauri Nummenmaa et all., “Bookly
Maps of Emotions;” PNAS (2014) (Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
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Sources: Sonia Lyubomirsky, The How of Happiness (2017); Special Time Edition, The
Science of Happiness
Circumstance Differences in
external factors,
such as income
and beauty, have
the smallest
influence.
Intent (Behavior) Much of our ability to
be happy is governed
by our own choices,
such as exercising and
socializing.
Genetic Studies of twins
suggest that about
half of our propensity
for happiness is
inherited.
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The Geography of Happiness Unsurprisingly, where you live can affect your well-being. Economic, geographic and
social factors all play parts. Here’s how joy around the world shakes out.
Data Source: World Happiness Report 2007 (Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
Map Source: Matador Network (https://matadornetwork.com/)
Eight of the 10 least happy
countries are in sub-
Saharan Africa (Central
African Republic, Burundi,
Tanzania, Rwanda, Togo,
Guinea, Liberia, and South
Sudan). The other two are
currently war-torn (Syria
and Yemen).
Nicaragua
has seen the
biggest rise
in happiness
since 2005.
Norway is
known for its
strong social
welfare system,
is the happiest
country overall.
Nigeria was voted
one of the most
corrupt African
countries due to
the high distrust in
leaders and civil
servants.
leaders and civil
servants.
China’s poorer and
older populations have
become less satisfied
with life since the
1990’s, while wealthier
and younger segments
have seen
improvement
Austria, the
world’s 14th
happiest country,
has the highest
rate of job
satisfaction (95%).
The U. S.
currently ranks
15th worldwide
in measures of
happiness
Chile is the
happiest
country in
South
America.
Venezuela
currently facing a
dee economic
crisis, has seen
the biggest drop
in happiness
since 2005.
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Source: World Happiness Report 2007 (Special Time Edition, The Science of Happiness)
What
1.
SOCIAL SUPPORT
Average global: 80% yes
On average, men under
age 55 report having less
social support than
women; the opposite is
true for older groups.
WHAT
INFLUENCES
HAPPINESS:
2.
GDP PER CAPITA
Average global: $10.112
GDP per capita, the most
unevenly distributed
factor, is 25 times as high
in the top 10 countries as
in the bottom 10.
4.
FREEDOM TO MAKE
LIFE DECISIONS
Average global: 75% yes
Perceived autonomy is
under 60% in the Middle
East and North Africa, but
the gap between genders
is minimal.
5.
GENEROSITY
Average global: 30%
On average, people
donate to charity more
frequently with age, and
women begin to surpass
men in donations after
age 50.
3.
YEARS OF HEALTHY
LIFE EXPECTANCY
Average global: 62 years
Healthy life expectancies
at birth range from as low
of 44 in Sierra Leone to a
high of 75 in Japan.
6.
PERCEIVED
CORRUPTION
Average global: 73% yes
Crises (such as 2011
Fukushima earthquake)
may boost happiness by
requiring cooperation and
independence.
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Improving Your Resiliency
Just as with diet and physical activity, you can use goal-
setting skills to improve your resiliency.
Before you set your goal, consider these aspects of your life
and think about changes you might make to gain resilience.
Spirituality. What does spirituality mean to you, and
how do you connect with it during your day?
Social Support. Do you have someone you can seek
out during a stressful event?
Mindfulness. Are there events or activities when you
feel totally immersed in the moment or the task at
hand?
Time in Nature. Does being in nature affect your
mood or reduce your stress level?
Physical Activity. Do you get enough physical
activity each day?
Diet. Does your diet provide adequate nutrients to
help you combat stress?
Sleep. Do you get enough sleep?
Relaxation. Do you make time to take part in
activities that help relax you?
Source: Mayo Clinic Guide to Healthy Living – Change Your Life Through Diet, Fitness and
Resiliency (2017 Time Inc. Oxmoor House) Page 80
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Personal Goals and Experiments in
Setting Up a Personal Wellness Plan
Goal: Be more optimistic Experiments:
Spend more time with optimistic people
Find a mentor
Each day, state or write down something that you’re grateful for
Look for positive opportunities during challenging times
Acknowledge your successes
Goal: Think and act more positively Experiments:
Create a positive and motivational phrase you can say to yourself each day
Write a positive note to yourself or send one to someone else
Express kindness to others
Express your gratitude each morning
Look for deeper meaning and purpose in life
Goal: Better manage stress Experiments:
Notice your personal signs of stress (headache, tight shoulders, and so on) and respond to
the warnings
Take three deep breaths before a stressful event, such as a meeting or presentation
Each day, rate your level of stress for 0 no stress) to 10 (high stress) and watch for patterns
Use relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing or massage, regularly
Make a point to laugh each day
Goal: Practice mindful movement Experiments:
Schedule exercise time on your daily calendar
Join an exercise class that meets regularly
Sign up for a yoga or Pilates class
Bicycle outside and enjoy nature
Go hiking with you family
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Goal: Develop more social relationships Experiments:
Take part in activities within your community or place of worship
Accept invitations when asked to do something or join a group
Sign up for an exercise class instead of exercising alone
Set up weekly lunch or dinner dates with friends or family
Reach out to people you miss and you haven’t seen in a while
Goal: Nurture your spirituality Experiments:
Identify those things that give you a sense of spirituality or purpose
Spend at least 5 minutes each day engaging in nature
Practice personal reflection – prayer, meditation or journaling
Visit a place of worship
Take part in music or art activities
Goal: Enrich your current relationships Experiments:
Set aside your cellphone and computer and visit with people
Each day, intentionally reach out to one person
Listen to the conversation instead of thinking about what you’re going to say next
Create new rituals with friends and family, such as Sunday brunch or craft night
Schedule regular date nights with your spouse or significant other
Goal: Take a stress management class Experiments:
Check if your employer offers a class led by licensed professionals
Ask your doctor for suggestions
See if your fitness center offers stress management classes
Sign up for a community education mindful movement class
Monitor your stress level during and after the program to gauge its effectiveness
Keep in mind that change takes time and patience. Similar to your diet and physical behavior
goals, doing the resiliency experiments regularly over time will bring behavior change.
Choose a resiliency goal and accompanying experiments that you believe will enhance your
quality of life and then make a commitment to achieving that goal. Many of us have financial plans,
vacation plans, and retirement plans. Have a resiliency plan is just as important.
Source: Mayo Clinic Guide to Healthy Living – Change Your Life Through Diet, Fitness and
Resiliency (2017 Time Inc. Oxmoor House) Pages 81-82
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WATER FOR THE BODY Water is essential for the body to function.
Water is sixty percent of the composition of the body.
Water withheld from the body for only a few days will lead to death.
Water aids in digestion, absorption, circulation and excretion.
Water is responsible for transporting nutrients and oxygen in the body.
Water is involved in regulating and maintaining normal body temperature.
Water lubricates the lungs for oxygen intake and carbon dioxide excretion
Water maintains blood volume and blood pressure.
Water is responsible for lubricating moving joints through the body.
Water dilutes medication to aid in absorption.
Water carries waste material and toxins out of the body.
Water slows the aging process.
Water prevents or improves arthritis.
Water inhibits kidney stones and obesity.
Water prevents constipation.
Water cleanses the body on the inside.
Water cleanses the body on the outside.
Waters washes away impurities of the skin.
Water makes your body feel better.
Water will assist every body system to function better.
Water is very inexpensive, but invaluable to the body.
WATER INVITES YOU
Drink at least two liters of water a day
Investigate all of the various types of drinking water
Plan and carry out a water party
Drink water even if you are not thirsty
Go to the water
Wash in water
Shower in water
Soak in water
Splash in water
Dive in water
Relax in water
Swim in water
Wade in water
Wallow in the water
Calculate the expense vs. the value of water to the body.
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WATER FOR THE MIND Water is calmness.
Water is peace and tranquility.
Water has restorative powers.
Water is refreshing.
Water is relaxing.
Water is rejuvenating.
Water is peaceful.
Water is placid.
Water is perfect.
Water is a puddle.
Water is a wave lapping on the seashore.
Water runs, trickles, drips, and gurgles.
Water bubbles, rushes, splashes, and rages.
Water floods, freezes, streams, rains, and pours.
Water is essential for all life.
Water if life giving.
Water is useful, to cook, to clean and to wash clothes.
Water is refreshing, to drink, to swim and to bathe.
Water is relaxing to watch, to listen and to meditate.
Water is rain and water is snow.
Water is a thunderstorm and a calm.
Water is an inexpensive wealth often taken for granted.
WATER INVITES YOU Watch water, a river, a lake, a stream or an ocean
Meditate on the qualities of water Imagine the movement of water
Use water to cook, clean, and wash Listen to water as it drips, gurgles or trickles
Watch water freeze, splash or rage Look at water bubbling, rushing or pouring
Think of water streaming, flooding or raining Watch the water lapping on the seashore
Walk through a puddle instead of around it Watch and listen to the rain and hear the thunderstorm
Listen and watch the snow Relax yourself in water
Find peace in water Meditate on the life-giving essentialness of water.
See water with calmness and tranquility Refresh yourself with water with a bath, drink or swim
Write what water has done for your spirit Share your discoveries with a friend
Praise the beauty and majesty of water Meditate on the inexpensive wealth of water
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WATER FOR THE SPIRIT
Water is a symbol of life.
Water is a powerful symbol with a central place in Christian rituals.
Water is associated with change, renewal and dreams.
Water, a symbol in baptism, represents the cleansing of original sin.
Water is a sign of welcoming into the Church
Water is a font at the church entrance symbolizing our baptism as entry.
Water is used as a sign of salvation.
Water is used for a blessing of any king
Water is used in sprinkling rites.
Water is used in hand washing during the liturgy of the Eucharist symbolizing
cleansing.
Water, mixed with the wine during the liturgy of the Eucharist, symbolizes Christ’s
humanity and His divinity.
Water is used in the washing of the feet on Holy Thursday. This gesture conveys
humility and service.
Water is a valuable treasure, but inexpensive.
WATER INVITES YOU
Pray about water
Read about water in the Old Testament
Mediate on water and the Old Testament
Read passages of the Gospels pertaining to water
Meditate on the Good News and water
Search the Scriptures for more water
Record passages found about water
Share insights about water with others
Sprinkle yourself with blessed water
Ponder on how water is your salvation
Associate water with dreams
Associate water with renewal
Associate water with change
Name all the rituals of the church when water is used
Recognize that water is a very powerful symbol of the church
Meditate on the hand washing at the liturgy of the Eucharist
Reflect on the relationship of water and wine—humanity and divinity
Recognize that water is welcoming and is associated with Easter
Write a water prayer
Renew your baptismal vows
Welcome the promises of your baptismal vows
Meditate on the meaning of the washing of the feet on Holy Thursday
Consider the valuable treasure of water that is inexpensive
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WATER IS A POWERFUL SYMBOL IN
THE OLD TESTAMENT
The Great Flood Genesis 7:1-24
The Parting of the Red Sea Exodus 14:1-30
Water from the Rock Exodus 17:1-7
The Lord, Shepherd and Host Psalm 23
Source of Living Water Jeremiah 2:13
Pass through the Water Isaiah 43:2
WATER IS DESCRIBED IN THE GOSPELS
Preaching of John, the Baptist Matthew 3:1-12
Baptism of Jesus Matthew 3:13-17
Cup of Cold Water Matthew 10:42
Walking on Water Matthew 14:22-31
Calming the Storm Mark 4:35-41
Changing Water to Wine John 2:1-11
Born of Water John 3:5
Healing at the Pool John 5:1-9
Rivers of Living Waters John 7:38-39
Washing the Disciples’ Feet John 13:1-7
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Self-Esteem Living Wholly, Holy, and Effectively
Sr. Carla Przybilla, O.S.F., Ph.D.
Think how you might continue to develop the qualities you have for happy,
healthy, effective living. They are already within you. What you recognize
in others is that part of yourself. Here are some of those characteristics:
1. Balance of body-mind-spirit
2. Sense of personal integrity
3. Presence
4. Self-respect
5. Graciousness
6. Congruence
7. Generosity
8. Sense of purpose
9. Genuineness
10. Ability to communicate clearly
11. Ability to listen
12. Common sense
13. Well-trained
14. Intelligence
15. Simplicity
16. Acceptance
17. Competence
18. Self-confidence
19. Stillness/Solitude
20. God-conscious
21. Cosmic consciousness
22. Ability to meet with empathic understanding
23. Ability to express unconditional positive regard
24. Ability to experience the other as a person
25. Sense of humor
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Spirit, Soul and Body – How God Designed Us
The Interaction Between Spirit, Soul and Body
Many of us are affected by how we handle the stress that life brings us. If chronic stress is left unchecked, over a period of time our bodies will take a toll. A strong faith can help us to cope with the stress that we experience in our life and enable the impact of that stress to be less significant. Without a strong personal faith we must resort to our own resources to cope with the stress present in our life. Often we attempt to cope with this stress through addictions and other methods of escape. This behavior can further exacerbate the effect of stress on our physical health. A strong personal faith can be a resource that helps to manage stress.
Our beliefs and attitudes, determined in large degree by our faith, will play a major role in our thinking patterns. Our day-to-day thinking will have an impact on our emotions and feelings, and our emotions and feelings will have a major impact on our behaviors. In this regard, our thought patterns play a significant role in our emotional and physical health.
From Faith and Health Connection
http://www.faithandhealthconnection.org/the_connection/spirit-soul-and-body/
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The Human Person
An Overview
“God’s greatest glory is a person fully alive.” (St. Irenaeus)
Hebrew notion of “person” (Jesus’ notion): Holistic, integrated and unified
Greek notion of “person” (St. Augustine): Dualistic—body and soul
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In our world, we have . . . a need for permanence in a civilization of transience;
a need for the absolute when all else has become relative;
a need for silence in the midst of noise;
a need for gratuitousness in the face of unbelievable greed;
a need for poverty amid the flaunting of wealth;
a need for contemplation in a century of action, for without
contemplation, action risks become mere agitation;
a need for communication in a universe content with
entertainment and sensationalism;
a need for peace amid today’s universal outbursts of violence;
a need for quality to counterbalance the increasingly prevalent
response to quantity;
a need for humility to counteract the arrogance of power and
science;
a need for human warmth when everything is being rationalized
or computerized;
a need to belong to a small group rather than to be part of a crowd;
a need for slowness to compensate the present eagerness for
speed;
a need for truth when the real meaning of words is distorted in
political speeches and sometimes even in religious
discourses;
a need for transparency when everything seems opaque.
Yes, a need for the interior life . . .
~ J. P. Dubois Dumee
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A WHOLE PERSON The scarcity of models makes it hard to describe a whole person, but it helps to
have an idea of what one might look like: Whole people:
love themselves
can laugh at themselves
risk being true to themselves
are involved in meaningful work
balance outer work with inner work
look for the good and hope for the best
are creative and original (not necessarily artistic)
are comfortable with their masculine and feminine aspects
are at home in their sexuality
develop a personal ethic based on love for self and others
enjoy food, rest, work, play, learning, mentoring
sometimes experience ecstasy at the beauty of creation
experience anger, anxiety, fear, sadness, and guilt
have a deep meaningful spiritual life
accept responsibility for their choices
know they don’t have all the answers
respond spontaneously to life
love their bodies
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A WHOLE PERSON (continued)
love the truth
love
affirm others
don’t use others
don’t need to impress others
suffer when others are suffering
don’t blame others for their unhappiness
respect children, animals, nature, and mystery
have honest, intimate relationships with others
recognize the hurt and fear that underlie the unattractive words and
behaviors of obnoxious people
put their trust in the unknowable “Other”
don’t allow others to manipulate them
don’t make promises they can’t keep
can say no without feeling guilty
are willing to confront others
listen more than they talk
see others as teachers
Adapted from Jean Benedict Rafa, Ed.D. The Bridge to Wholeness: A
Feminine Alternative to the Hero Myth (San Diego, CA: Laura Media)
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WHAT PREVENTS US FROM BECOMING A
WHOLE PERSON
Issues and behaviors that our directees (and we!) have which contribute to
unhealthy living and a lack of total well-being include:
o Negative body image
o Lack of awareness of one’s body
o Living mostly in one’s head and out of touch with one’s feelings and
body
o Lack of awareness of one’s breathing (shallow breathing)
o Inadequate leisure and fun time
o Overwork
o Lack of physical exercise
o Poor eating habits, such as eating an abundance of simple
carbohydrates, fast foods, or eating “on the run”
o Obesity
o Lack of balance between giving and receiving (give too much, receive
too little)
o Watching too much TV
o Co-dependent tendencies, such as being externally oriented, the
inability to say “no” to others, blaming others
o Compulsive tendencies
o Rigidity and the need to be in control
o One’s attention more in the past or future, and not in the present
moment
o Strong resentments and unforgiving attitudes
o Lack of self-care
How can these issues and attitudes affect directees’ (and our) unfolding
relationship with God and spiritual well-being? Can you think of a particular
directee struggling with several of these issues?
Adapted from Jean Benedict Rafa, Ed.D. The Bridge to Wholeness: A
Feminine Alternative to the Hero Myth (San Diego, CA: Laura Media)
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BLOCKS/HINDRANCES TO THE DEVELOPMENT
OF A CONTEMPLATIVE OUTLOOK
What are some hindrances or blocks to developing a contemplative attitude or
experiencing God’s loving presence?
Lack of an interior life
A non-reflective approach to life; externally oriented
Childhood wounds, abuse, and neglect
Distorted notion/image of God
Fear of God
Low self esteem
Self-absorption
Serious past regressions, such as involvement with drugs or having an
abortion
“Secrets” from family or ancestry
Addictions and compulsions
Co-dependency issues and tendencies
Doing vs. Being: Inability to “be”
Lack of primal human love
Repressed feelings, or out of touch with feelings
Inability to be vulnerable
Obsessive need to be in control
Repressed sexuality
Unforgiveness of another or oneself
Adapted from Jean Benedict Rafa, Ed.D. The Bridge to Wholeness: A
Feminine Alternative to the Hero Myth (San Diego, CA: Laura Media)
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Key Links in the Spirituality and Health Connection
From: Faith and Health Connection
http://www.faithandhealthconnection.org/tag/spirituality-and-health/
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Emotions Color Wheel
Source: Toddatkins - http://batonrougecounseling.net/managing-emotions/
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The World of Emoticons
Are Emojis making you less emotional? In September, 1982
Scott Fahlman, of Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA was the
first documented person to use the emoticons :-) and :-( , with a specific
suggestion that they be used to express emotion. In his webpage, Scott
explains the reason he developed the first emotions :-) and how it spread
out to other networks. He explains that the first emoticons were developed
to help people better communicate in bulletin boards.
Which Emoji represents how you feel today?
‘
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Desiderata Go placidly amid the noise and the haste,
and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender, be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant,
they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit. If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about Love;
for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline,
be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe; no less than the trees and the stars, you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, No doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore, be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations
in the noisy confusion of life keep peace in your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world.
Be cheerful! Strive To Be Happy!
Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, Copyright 1952
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MOVEMENT FROM COMPULSION TO
CONTEMPLATION
COMPULSIVE LIVING CONTEMPLATIVE LIVING
Driven approach to life Open-ended & Free-flowing approach
Narrow vision of reality Expansive vision of reality
Control; rigidity Surrender; spontaneity
Obsessed and anxious Accepting and serene
Holding on; possessiveness Letting Go; freedom
Past and future oriented Living in the present moment
Self-absorbed Self-aware
Strong defenses Necessary defenses/Vulnerable
Self-disgust and self-hatred Self-acceptance & self-love
Emotional distance; Intimacy with self, God
dissonance with self and others; at home with self
Dealing with people Relating with people
Inordinate desires True longing for God
Cluttered inner space Empty inner space
False self Authentic self
Emphasis on Pleasure Emphasis on True joy
Childish Childlike
Partially living Fully human and alive
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EMERGENCY Phone Numbers
When in sorrow...call John 14.
When men fail you...call Psalm 27.
If you want to be fruitful...call John 15.
When you have sinned...call Psalm 51.
When you worry...call Matthew 6:19-34.
When you are in danger...call Psalm 91.
When God seems far away...call Psalm 139.
When your faith needs stirring...call Hebrews 11.
When you are lonely and fearful...call Psalm 23.
When you grow bitter and critical...call I Corinthians 13.
For Paul's secret to happiness...call Colossians 3:12-17.
For understanding of Christianity...call II Corinthians 5:15-19.
When you feel down and out...call Romans 8:31.
When you want peace and rest...call Matthew 11:25-30.
When the world seems bigger than God...call Psalm 90.
When you want Christian assurance...call Romans 8:1-30.
When you leave home for labor or travel...call Psalm 121.
When your prayers grow narrow or selfish...call Psalm 67.
For a great invention/opportunity...call Isaiah 55.
When you want courage for a task...call Joshua 1.
For how to get along with fellow men...call Romans 12.
When you think of investments and returns...call Mark 10.
If you are depressed...call Psalm 27.
If your pocketbook is empty...call Psalm 37.
If you are losing confidence in people...call I Corinthians 13.
If people seem unkind...call John 15.
If discouraged about your work...call Psalm 126
If you find the world growing small and yourself great...call Psalm19.
Alternate numbers:
For dealing with fear, ............... call Psalm 34:7.
For security, ........................... call Psalm 121:3.
For assurance, ....................... call Mark 8:35.
For reassurance, .................... call Psalm 145:18.
Emergency numbers may be dialed direct.
No operator assistance is necessary.
All lines to Heaven are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week!
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Saint Faustina’s Praises
of The Divine Mercy
(948-949)
The Love of God is the flower—Mercy the fruit.
Let the doubting soul read these considerations
on Divine Mercy and become trusting.
Divine Mercy, gushing forth from the bosom of the Father,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, greatest attribute of God,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, incomprehensible mystery,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, fountain gushing forth from the mystery
of the Most Blessed Trinity,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, unfathomed by any intellect, human or angelic,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, from which wells forth all life and happiness,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, better than the heavens,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, source of miracles and wonders,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, encompassing the whole universe,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, descending to earth in the Person of the
Incarnate Word,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, which flowed out from the open wound
of the Heart of Jesus,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, enclosed in the Heart of Jesus for us,
and especially for sinners,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, unfathomed in the institution of the Sacred Host,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in the founding of Holy Church,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in the Sacrament of Holy Baptism,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in our justification through Jesus Christ,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, accompanying us through our whole life,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, embracing us especially at the hour of death,
I Trust in You.
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Divine Mercy, endowing us with immortal life,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, accompanying us every moment of our life,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, shielding us from the fire of hell,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in the conversion of hardened sinners
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, astonishment for Angels, incomprehensible
to Saints,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, lifting us out of every misery,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, source of our happiness and joy,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in calling us forth from nothingness to
existence,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, embracing all the works of His hands,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, crown of all of God's handiwork,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, in which we are all immersed,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, sweet relief for anguished hearts,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, only hope of despairing souls,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, repose of hearts, peace amidst fear,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, delight and ecstasy of holy souls,
I Trust in You.
Divine Mercy, inspiring hope against all hope,
I Trust in You.
Eternal God, in whom mercy is endless and the treasury of
compassion inexhaustible, look kindly upon us and increase
Your mercy in us, that in difficult moments we might not
despair nor become despondent, but with great confidence
submit ourselves to Your Holy Will, which is Love and Mercy
itself (950).
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Divine Mercy’s
Prescription for Spiritual Health Taken from book on St. Faustina Kowalska by Rev. George W. Kosicki, C.S.B.
12 Common Human Ailments
“POISONS”
12 Prescriptions
“REMEDIES” FEAR
Being anxious, worried; afraid of death, the future, the unknown, sickness, violence, people.
vs. TRUST Having a living faith in Jesus, knowing that He is in charge and that He loves us.
SHAME Feeling inadequate unworthy, unlovable, sinful, dirty, burdened by past sins and failures.
vs. MERCY Turning to God’s mercy, accepting it, being transformed by it, and letting it flow out to others.
REBELLION Being angry, full of hatred, unwilling, judgmental, unforgiving, aggressive.
vs. GOD’S WILL Seeking to live in joyful acceptance of God’s will, desiring His will above all else.
SELFISHNESS Being self-centered, self-concerned, self-seeking, self-fulfilling, pleasure seeking.
vs. GLORIFYING GOD’S MERCY Focusing on God instead of ourselves, praising and proclaiming His mercy
SECULARIZATION Living as though there were no God, or being indifferent to God (practical atheism).
vs. GLORIFYING THE TRINITY Living as children of God, rejoicing in the Three Divine Persons living in our hearts.
MISERY Being sick, in pain, inept, unable, worried, anxious, gloomy, dissipated, sinful.
vs. SUFFERING FOR OTHERS Offering our here-and-now sufferings and pain for other in union with Jesus.
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PRIDE Being self-righteous, self-centered, rebellious, judgmental, resentful, boastful.
vs. HUMILITY Realizing that God is God and I am not. Being willing to serve in humble, hidden ways.
SPIRITUAL WEAKNESS Feeling fatigued, depressed, burdened, bored, lustful, intemperate, avaricious.
vs. EUCHARIST Taking time for “Radiation Therapy” before the Eucharist, allowing God to strengthen and transform us.
GUILT Being sinful, divided, unforgiving; feeling unworthy, no-good, bitter, despondent.
vs. RECONCILIATION Being reconciled to God by confession and to one another by mutual forgiveness.
POWERLESSNESS Being at a loss, powerless, without purpose, without answers, without faith, hope, or love.
vs. PRAYER Asking continuously for God’s mercy and the power of the Holy Spirit for ourselves and others.
BURNOUT Feeling persecuted, confused, tormented, distressed, tired, lonely, lost, trapped.
vs. MERCIFUL HEART OF JESUS Resting in the Heart of Jesus, seeking to unite our hearts to His.
INSECURITY Feeling helpless, confused, sad, sorry for self, unsure of self.
vs. MOTHER of MERCY Accepting the mother of Jesus as our mother, too and allowing her to comfort and form us.
Jesus has a remedy for everything ~ St. Faustina (Diary, 447)
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A New Serenity Prayer
God, grant me the serenity
to accept the people I cannot change,
which is pretty much everyone,
since I’m clearly not you, God.
At least not the last time I checked.
And while you’re at it, God,
please give me the courage
to change what I need to change about myself,
which is frankly a lot, since, once again,
I’m not you, which means I’m not perfect.
It’s better for me to focus on changing myself
than to worry about changing other people,
who, as you’ll no doubt remember me saying,
I can’t change anyway.
Finally, give me the wisdom to just shut up
whenever I think that I’m clearly smarter
than everyone else in the room,
that no one knows what they’re talking about except me,
or that I alone have all the answers.
Basically, God,
grant me the wisdom
to remember that I’m
not you.
Amen
From The Jesuit Post by James Martin, SJ, St. Joseph’s Abbey, Spencer, MA
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Take care of your body as
if you were going to live
forever; and take care of
your soul as if you were
going to die tomorrow.
— St. Augustine
Spiritual reading is the food of the soul,
which renders it dauntless and strong
against all temptation, which prompts
it with holy thoughts and ardent
desires for heaven, which enlightens the
mind, strengthens the will, and gives
comfort in all afflictions, which, in
conclusion, procures that true and holy
joy which is found in God alone.
— St. Ambrose
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Do you want to get a daily dose of Spiritual Health?
Then download the following website to your
electronic device!
www.spiritualityhealth.com
Some recent articles have been: The Swim of Awakening by Brené Brown Ingratitude Is Way Too Easy
And This Is How Our World Will Change It’s Okay to Say No
A Purpose Driven Life Leads to Better Sleep Why It’s Okay to Say No
Why Emotional Intelligence is More Important Than IQ 5 Ways to Moderate Your News Intake
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Closing Prayer
LORD JESUS,
BLESS ALL WHO SHARE
IN YOUR PASTORAL MINISTRY,
ALL WHO MINISTER
TO THE SICK AND LONELY,
TO THE TIRED AND DEPRESSED,
TO THOSE IN PAIN,
TO THOSE WHO SUFFER IN ANGUISH
OF LOSS AND BEREAVEMENT.
GIVE ALL PASTORAL WORKERS
YOUR SPIRIT OF COMPASSION
SO, THEY MAY FEARLESSLY
ENTER PLACES OF PAIN,
TO BE WITH OTHERS IN SUFFERING
WITH A PRESENCE THAT COMFORTS,
SUSTAINS,
HEALS,
HELP PASTORAL WORKERS
IN ACCEPTING THEIR OWN BROKENNESS
TO SHARE IN THE BROKENNESS OF OTHERS;
IN ACKNOWLEDGING THEIR OWN NEEDS FOR HEALING
TO BECOME FOR OTHERS, WOUNDED HEALERS;
IN EXPERIENCING THE DEPTHS OF YOUR LOVE,
TO BE WITNESSES OF THAT LOVE FOR THOSE WHO
DO NOT GET IT OR FIND IT HARD TO ACCEPT.
HELP ALL PASTORAL WORKERS
TO KNOW DAILY
THEIR DEPENDENCY ON YOU,
AND TO EXPERIENCE
THE RICH BLESSINGS
OF A CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY OF HEALERS,
A COMMUNITY OF FAITH AND LOVE,
WHO SUPPORT ONE ANOTHER IN MINISTRY,
AND WHO ARE A SIGN OF HOPE
OF YOUR PRESENCE AMONG THEM.