God is nearer to us than our own spirit.

— Julian of Norwich

Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

Today is the first day in two weeks that I have been able to walk without a cane. Yes, I fell victim to “over-zumba-ing” and my knee let me know that I am “of an age!”

As a result, I have been forced into a more sedate life style and been given the unexpected “gift” of Presence – albeit in a somewhat unwelcomed wrapping. And, like most unexpected gifts, when opened, they present a new perspective. For, while I still have access to distractions via the chirping, beeping and ringing that constantly sings from my cellphone, many of the day's distractions have been annexed from the reading chair that has been my home during this time of confinement. And so, I have been made perfectly aware that the Presence of Spirit remains with me always – it is infinite and all-encompassing, even as I just sit. Perhaps that is what we are all supposed to do. Sit with Spirit even when moving. Hmmm …

It is, thankfully, impossible to not be in this Presence. It is simply our lack of awareness, punctuated by life's daily distractions, that causes us to believe otherwise. Our monkey mind would love us to continue to be concerned about our future or remain stuck in our past. But, trust me on this, knee-pain is the antidote to the monkey mind! I wish I were a better student and did not have to learn this lesson in such a painful way!

And yet, in these moments of quiet solitude, banished to the confines of my comfy chair, I can feel the blanket of grace wrapped around me and I know and feel that Presence. Always there. I trust that the Spirit of that Sacred Energy is flowing through all of us and we are often so restless that we miss it and mistake it for the busyness to which we are addicted.

So perhaps this wounded knee was really a much bigger gift than I realized; a time to slow down, make space for grace and reflection. And yes, when I do get back to zumba, I will be balanced in more ways than one!

Grace – fully yours,
Reverend Deborah

Monthly Affirmation: I remain with Presence in each moment of the day.

For help developing a meaningful spiritual practice or celebrating special life events, we can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com or 215 260 1611.