MINISTER'S MESSAGE
Manifest plainness,
Embrace simplicity,
Reduce selfishness,
Have few desires.
Taoism. Tao Te Ching 19
Beloved Ones:
Because of the unusually hot weather here in Boise, I have been worried about my tomato plants (you all know how much I LOVE tomatoes!). So I have been watering them with my special “sprinkler hose”. You know, the one with tiny holes that allow small jets of water to spray in lots of directions.
This morning as I watched a few lethargic drips or two emerging from the blocked hose, I realized that this was a simple reminder that if I don’t stay focused, my life could become just like that hose. I can identify with that long piece of rubber....stretched thin...pulled taut...punctured with holes and blocked, so that I am no good for anything or anyone.
I wonder, if like me right now, you might also be feeling pressured to get involved with too many things so our physical, emotional and even our spiritual energies are expended in so many different directions. And we are left with nothing to give but pathetic little drops of ourselves.
I have noticed that recently the slow down of the Pandemic has encouraged us (compelled might be a better word!) to “get out there and start living again.” And yes, we should begin to reassess our lives and re-introduce activities in our living. But surely not at the cost of losing our peace and balance!
This heat wave is reminding me to slow down, focus on what is important, what is lasting, what is mine “really” to do. Often I get so busy, so preoccupied with the small things, the non-essential, unimportant things that I am mentally and physically drained before I can get to the important, spiritual activities that are the foundation of my life. When that happens, I am left exhausted and wondering why nothing ever seems to get done. Maybe you can identify with me.
I believe the Pandemic, and now this heat wave, are calling us to simplify our lives. To stop, take inventory and ask ourselves, “What expectations can I release; what do I want vs what do I need; what will bring me the most joy; what is really important here?”
Taoism teaches that “Simplicity, which has no name, is free of desires.” I once read that “wealth consists not in the abundance of our possessions, but in the fewness of our wants.” The same can also be said of Happiness, I believe.
This heat wave isn’t going to last forever. So why not take this opportunity to slow down, simplify to eliminate the unjoyful, unsatisfying and re-dedicate your life.
I look forward to seeing you this Sunday at the CSL Boise or on FaceBook Live!
Peace and Blessings!
Rev. Jackie Holland
Community Spiritual Leader/Senior Minister
