Volume 13, Issue 10 | October 2024

Hi!

We all know that giving thanks and showing gratitude are usually the focal point of the November Thanksgiving holiday here in the U.S. But gratitude is meaningful—and powerful—all year long.

Each night I write down at least ten things I am grateful for; it’s amazing how much there is.

With the news about a health concern I learned about early in September, followed by life style, body fuel (food) changes, and inner work, I am especially embracing an attitude of gratitude.

I am grateful for:

• seeing the demonstration of my body’s intelligence and ability to heal
• the support and generosity of people, near and far, in a myriad of ways
• learning my issue was misdiagnosed and is not quite as serious as originally thought
• the vast knowledge of information available about all sorts of healing and natural remedies
• my deepened connection to Spirit
• my commitment to follow The Guidance and take a stand for my own life and health
• the willingness to, and then taking the action of putting one foot in front of the other to follow my beliefs

So that’s what I’m grateful for in my immediate personal world.

So now, is It over yet?

I am grateful the U.S. elections are less than one week away. This presidential election is the most important in my lifetime, and in at least a century. One might even say since the U.S. Constitution was ratified. There is a decision each voter needs to make this election day, a very clear one: keep the United States of America as a democratic republic, imperfect but filled with freedom OR turn this demonstration of the idea that the people are guaranteed individual liberty into a fascist (or totalitarian or some other similarly non-democratic) state. Not agreeing on policies can be remedied—but only if there is still a democracy standing.

Anyone who seeks to take away your constitutional rights, spews hatred and racism, incites violence, etc. is not fit to be the leader of this country. That’s in addition to not upholding the presidential oath of office in the past, being a convicted felon, etc.

So much more can be said, but I’m tired of it all and I’m sure you are too. But, please don’t sit this one out—it could be the last time you have your right to vote.

I am grateful and feel privileged to have been born in the United States. I know it’s not perfect but it’s up to each and every person to participate peacefully in this democracy.

There is only one choice for a sane, ethical, caring, intelligent, experienced, Constitution-affirming leader of the United States. I am very grateful for all of the Republicans out there who are doing the right thing.

Vote as if your life depends on it—because it does!

I know that things in this country are not going to be all hunky dory come November 6, but at least all the campaigning will over. For that, I am grateful.

Blessings,

The song that initially came to mind to share was “This Land is Your Land” written by Woody Guthrie in 1940. After some research and a desire for something more stirring, I chose Irving Berlin’s “God Bless America,” which he wrote in in 1938.

The following video is from the 1943 movie “This Is The Army.” In it, the cultural icon Kate Smith sings the full-length rendition of “God Bless America”—I’d never heard the following opening lyrics: 

While the storm clouds gather

Far across the sea,

Let us swear allegiance

To a land that’s free.

Let us all be grateful

For a land so fair,

As we raise our voices

In a solemn prayer.

Spirituality

A Form of Moral and Spiritual Association

John Dewey (October 20, 1859–June 1, 1952) was an American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer. He was one of the most prominent American scholars in the first half of the twentieth century. The overriding theme of Dewey's works was his profound belief in democracy, be it in politics, education, or communication, and journalism.

Inspiration and Contemplation

Let’s Consider the Process of Democracy a Spiritual Practice

The excerpt below is from an article written by a follower of the Unitarian Universalist tradition.

Democracy isn’t just a system; it’s an ideal that each of us either has faith in or doesn’t.

Viewing the democratic process as a spiritual journey not only elevates its significance for each of us but also for the communities we create together. Practice the process. Practice.

Our mission is to trust in the democratic process, showing that it is the right way; it is the way to the liberation we strive for. A foundational tenet of democracy is inclusivity of all voices. Both liberal religion and secular thought have, too many times, fallen short in this respect. We must amplify more voices, all voices. Because democracy thrives when diverse perspectives collide, like the rough edges of stones until they become smooth.

People—and Other Beings—Making a Difference

Friends Pick Up Trash Left By Visitors Checking Out Foliage in NH

Two local friends in Franconia, NH decided to clean up the mess that was left behind over a recent weekend by massive crowds visiting New Hampshire's White Mountains to catch a glimpse of the changing leaves.

Siobhan Smith and her friend Noah work at Franconia Notch, and seeing all the people come through made them realize that “no one wants to go up there when there's trash everywhere.” They hiked up Artists Bluff picking up the trash that visitors had left on the trail.

Smith said that while the fall can be a beautiful time to visit New Hampshire's White Mountains, it is important for anyone coming up to leave the community how they first found it so the Granite State can remain beautiful.

"I think just having pride in our community and seeing how beautiful it can be without garbage is truly important," she said.

Carry in, carry out. Leave no trace.

October is one of those delightful months that many of us wish we could bottle up and live in forever. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing, it's officially spooky season, and Thanksgiving and the holidays are right around the corner.

“Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting, and autumn a mosaic of them all.”

– Stanley Horowitz

Blessings,

Let Us Not Forget!

Joyce S. Kaye, MSW

928.301.7292

joyce@thecomputerspirit.com

You, Me, and Spirit

I was a devout atheist until 34 years ago when I "came to believe" in a Power greater than myself. Thanks to hearing the novel idea (well, at least it was to me!) that one could choose their own concept of God—and name too (Spirit, The Great Mystery, All That Is, etc.)—and the workings of synchronicity, I embarked on a new way of thinking, a new way of living, a new way of being in the world and with others. It impacted all aspects of my life and relationships.

Since that time of commencing my conscious spiritual journey, I have endeavored to remember The Presence in all that is, all whom I meet, and all that I do—including working with clients in my own business, academia, and the corporate world. I strive to be of service and to nurture the human spirit in all environments.