Message from our Minister
December 2011
Message from our Minister
The Next Adventure!
Our decision to move to Mississippi actually evolved over the last year. First and foremost, I must still work and I have no desire to leave my current job. Randy, however, has retired and has been planning to do so for some time. When we owned our lake house we both realized we wanted to live full time in a more rural setting. With this realization our planning began. First we sold our lake house. Then we updated our Houston home, made some needed repairs, and then put it up for sale. Luckily it sold in only a couple of months.
In the meantime we began looking for potential properties outside of Houston, but within commuting distance. We looked in Tomball, Needville, and Angleton to name a few. While there were and are many interesting possibilities, the prospect of an hour commute in both directions was always discouraging.
Also during this same time, we began to think more about our families and that it would be nice to be closer to some of them. With the death of Randy’s brother this past summer, the pull to Mississippi finally took over. Randy wants to be nearer his large family and they want us both to move to Mississippi. Their love and acceptance have truly been overwhelming. As I’ve watched my own parents decline, the need for family has become more and more apparent and I will be a little closer to my own family as well. Consequently, I asked for a transfer. It is likely to happen but definitely has not been confirmed. If and when it comes through, we could now move immediately.
So I hope you understand why I am leaving. I love you all and will miss you, but other “calls” are beckoning!
Namaste! Rev. John Pepper
November 2011
Balance – One Key to a Healthy Life
Now I obviously don’t really know whether or not there is some mystical force guiding and directing me, but sometimes I’m almost certain there is. Please don’t worry, but I’ve allowed myself to be overly worried about work, home, and ministry. This stress manifested today in a physical ailment which is easily treated. My spiritual practice this morning, as with all mornings, was to read my Daily Word and here is most of what it said.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Balance
Illness can be my first indication that I am out of balance. Beyond tending to my physical body with rest and recuperation, it is important for me to also look at my spiritual well-being.
If I feel sensitive, overwhelmed or disconnected from Source, I will feel the effect in mind, body and spirit. To find my center, I focus on the inflow and outflow of my breath. I become present with my True Nature and step aside from the noise of both the outer world and my own scattered thoughts. I become still and tune in to God and the Universe.
As I find balance, I am able to use my energy more wisely. I cultivate a loving heart. At one with the serenity and wisdom within me, I am in balance--mind, body and spirit.
Was the universe speaking to me? Yes it was! Now I have to listen and do something about it – and I will.
We are all responsible for maintaining our balance. When you notice yourself getting out of balance, I strongly recommend you do something about it. Take a break. Acknowledge it and let go where you can. Go see a doctor if necessary. Reach out to others for help. Get some rest and proper nutrition. Take care of yourself. If you don’t, no one will!
Namaste! Rev. John Pepper