MARCH 2024

Dear Kind and Gentle People,

Oh My Soul! Here at “The Mill” the trees have been tapped, bluebird scouts are out and about, the hens have resumed offering their “Henny Penny’s,” and calves, lambs and kids are arriving. How marvelous to experience the turning of the great wheel with the heralding signs of Spring.

Two weeks ago, on Ash Wednesday it was frightfully frigid with horrid winds. Amidst prayerful preparation for “Ash and Dash” from the back of my trusty 2005 Scion XB, known as “The Crack 2 Mobile,” the wind accepted the carefully prepared ashes as a personal offering. Yup, “Gone with the Wind.” In the ghastly cold of the morning a huge laugh of glee came from the depths of my being. What a fabulous reminder that our shortcomings can be forgiven in an instant and that the dust we came from returns gloriously back to the earth. Providence was kind with a generous amount of ashes still available for the day. Everything worked out perfectly.

We are responsible for the care of our soul and there is a plethora of tools in our toolbox to use as we travel our Lenten pilgrim journey. Let me share several tools that have helped my Spirit to be a bit more mindful and open. Use your creativity and please adapt the following for your most benevolent outcome.

When arising to greet the day and at its completion, my gong is sounded and a silent prayer of thanksgiving offered. Having a set time to read scripture and actively pray in my trusty prayer chair is truly a blessing. Also to simply sit, breathe and listen each day helps one to be “in-tune” so to speak with what seeks to be unveiled. In the middle of the night, it is wonderful to open the window and howl at the moon. I double-dutch dare you to do this as it is simply exhilarating. The practicing gratitude for our vast abundance and blessings before feasting, shopping or traveling is practically a magic formula for success. Obviously, chanting, singing, drumming and creating music are a must!

As we travel our pilgrim journey for the remaining of our season of Lent, might you be aware of how the Universe is speaking and guiding you. How your soul is being purified and the tasks you are being quietly guided to execute. Perhaps you will experience a literal “Gone with the Wind” moment followed by pure joy. I pray you will!

Happy Spring and a Blessed Easter!

As Always,

Gobs of Blessings and Heaps of Happiness,

Your Chaplain,

Petah

Rev. Dr. Peter Stickney

Photo Credits:

Newfield Kids – Spring 2024 Photo by Tayte Dame

Newfield Community Church – Lent Photo by Peter Stickney