Journal of Sacred Work

Today's meditation was contributed by Cathy Self, Senior Vice-President for the Baptist Healing Trust.

     One year ago Erie Chapman, the author and founder of this Journal, offered a new challenge for readers. He suggested that the Journal be a place to share personal progress in "living Love, not fear." Of all the potential resolutions we might attempt to achieve, this one resolution, said Erie, is "worth a lifetime of effort. The resolution to 'Live Love, not fear,' is a complete and pervasive lifestyle that requires moment by moment presence…. Part of the practice of presence involves reflecting on our lives, so why not try this journal as a diary of your loving care?" That offer is made again today.

     I recently had the gift and privilege of staying with our two-year granddaughter as her parents welcomed her new baby brother into the world. To see life anew through the eyes of a two year-old is a gift that is beyond measure. What struck me most were the unexpected moments, seemingly out of the clear blue, surrounded by little arms and wet lips and a whispered "I love you Nana." Love offered and freely given – unbidden, unexpected, and deeply accepting – in spite of my inability to play hide-and-seek "one more time" or the need for a stern reminder to not jump off the couch. Unconditional love. What a gift. And how desperately needed in this world!

   
  Steve Tisch, one of the produces for the acclaimed film "Forrest Gump" said in his acceptance of an Academy Award for the film, "Forrest Gump is not about political views or conservative values. Forrest Gump is about humanity, it's about respect, tolerance, and unconditional love." What would this world be like if we could all be like Forrest? Does living Love ask us to give love unconditionally?

     So here we are, one year later, and it is Day 1 again. Perhaps it is still early in the morning of your Day 1, or maybe the evening sky has filled with stars over your head. Whether for just a moment or for hours, what has been your awareness today of Love in your life? How have you lived Love or felt Love extended to you?