Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 33

1. I am grateful for a day to just be still.
2. I'm grateful for the opportunity to make a hospital visit to a friend.
3. I am grateful for the opportunity to share some of my own experience strength and hope with the person who quote just happened" to be in the hospital, in the next bed to my friend.
4. Still very very grateful for the most amazing Christmas weekend still abuzz about both are candlelighting in the Christmas morning service.
5. Grateful for the ways that spirit flows through me when I let it happen.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 32 - Christmas Day

1. I am grateful for April actually wearing Christmas jammies top church! I had invited folks to wear ugly sweaters or the Christmas PJ's and several did.
2. I was grateful for the couple from, our neighborhood who visited for the first time this morning. They said they have been walking by for the past few months and decided to check us out.
3. I am grateful for a wonderful Christmas Season at URO and I am grateful now to rest for a few days. It has been very busy!
4. I am grateful for the relaxed atmosphere as we explored the idea of its time to BE CHRISTmas.
5. I am grateful for a wonderful time with my family this afternoon. Good food, and sweet energy.

Merry Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my current gratitude practice - maybe till the end of the year. A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 31 - Christmas Eve

URO Had A Full House on Christmas Eve

1. I am grateful for the incredible teamwork of our volunteers and staff. Christmas Eve was a joyous and relatively easy experience.
2. I am grateful ror the luminaries which ringed our property and were such a welcome invitation to all and connected us to our neighborhood where almost every street was lined with light.
3. I am grateful for the most incredible Christmas Eve Candle Lighting service I have experienced in several years. The feeling of love in our was amazing.
4. I am grateful for the many people who helped make our musical program over the top! Wow!!
5. I am grateful for a lovely lunch with friends.
6. I am grateful for the many gifts I received and especially with the pan of lasagne from Shirley which I will take to my family gathering tomorrow.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 30

1. I am grateful to our Outreach Team who allocated funds for Christmas for two of our families.
2. I am grateful for Saundra and the Ford Employees Fund who adopted three families through Unity of Royal Oak.
3. I am grateful for my sister, Dion, who not only let me use her van to deliver gifts today but went with me and helped.
4. I grateful for Carol's willingness to be Christmas Carol as she had done for many years .
5. I am grateful for the families that received our gifts of love made real.  I love being able to put feet and food to our prayers.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 29

1. I am grateful that the small amount of holidays related shopping is finished and I no longer need to wait in long queues or dodge peoples carts.
2. I am grateful; that I was able to listen in on the Christmas Eve music rehearsal this afternoon. The spirit of Christmas is finally stirring within me.
3. I'm grateful that Liz can play the piano for Christmas Eve which allows Kim to lead and direct.
4. I'm grateful that the piano tuning service was able to come out on short notice after the sudden shift to dry winter air took the sound south.
5. I am grateful for ongoing support from our Board of Trustees which makes things run smoothly.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 28

1. I am grateful that today is the Winter Solstice which means the days will begin to lengthen. 
2. I am grateful for memories and photographs of my mother and my awareness of her nearness this first Christmas season since she made her transition.
3. I am grateful that I remembered to buy flash paper for our burning bowl service.
4. I am grateful that the cold symptoms fro earlier in the week are dissipating.
5. I am grateful for a really sound sleep last night. I feel fantastic today!

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 27

1. I am grateful for the twenty people who gathered at URO and went caroling in our neighborhood. It was a good community building event.
2. I am grateful for the six houses where someone came to the door and especially for the little kids who enjoyed our christmas carols
3. I am grateful that the weather was decent with snow but without bitter cold.
4. I am grateful for being able to simply participate without being the organizer.
5. I am grateful for a finding a set of warm gloves in my size on sale!
6. I am grateful for the joy in the room when we came in from singing and had snacks.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 26

1. I am grateful for the wonderful chicken soup I made today with garlic infused chicken broth I bought at Aldi last week. Wonderful garlicky flavor!
2. I am grateful for this cold quiet day. It forced me to slow down and pay attention.
3. I am grateful for a warm conversation over dinner with my neighbor Fred this afternoon. His wife of 54 years passed this past February and he is learning to navigate life in a new way.
4. I am grateful for Norma the neighborhood Christmas Luminaries Chair person in Royal Oak. We will have 50 luminaries surrounding Unity of Royal Oak in Christmas Eve.
5. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn about some of the side TV stations since I dropped cable. I am enjoying the PBS side station @Create a lot among others.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 25

1. I am grateful for this focus on Peace this Fourth Sunday of Advent which led me to the meaning of Shalom which then led me to the awareness that peace is more than the absence of conflict and that peace is a consciousness of deepest connection to Source. Preaching regularly is a powerful personal spiritual practice.
2. I am grateful for the streamlined service opening that grew out of conversations with several people over the past week. I didn't feel like I had to rush the talk.
3. I am grateful for Harvey's singing The Holly and the Ivey today. I love to see people stepping into their gifts and sharing them in community.
4. I am grateful for Sharon and Richard choosing to celebrate his birthday with the entire community by providing lunch from Chicken Shack as well as ice scream and cake. The sense of community, connection and ownership grows each month.
5.  I am grateful for having nothing that I must tend to at the moment allowing time for a nap and some music. Now to dream about Christmas ...

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 24

Cleared Lot & Walkways - Thanks Leone Outdoor Services

1. I am grateful the parking lot and walks were already cleared at Unity of Royal Oak when I went in this morning for our Men's Group Meeting. Before hiring Leone Outdoor Services, the parking lot wouldn't be cleared until Monday (for the medical offices that share our lot) and the walkways and public sidewalks waited until I could find someone to shovel.
2. I am grateful for the six men who turned out on a snowy morning that had been forecast to be icy for our reformed Men's Group. A hearty bunch of guys who made breakfast and then had a heartfelt conversation.
3. I'm grateful for the new coffee maker and everyone liking the coffee. We're a group of coffee snobs in the men's group it seems. 
4. I'm grateful that ,y new snow thrower worked like a champ and had enough battery time to clear the driveway and Porkchop's spot out front too. Porkchop has short hair and is small so he isn't a fan of wading into the snow to do his business.
5. I'm grateful the forecast freezing rain did not materialize and I was able to easily get to the venue for a wedding I was officiating. I prefer a stress free zone.

In the Spirit of Christmas,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 23

1. I am grateful for this electric snow thrower that arrived as promised yesterday. My cardiologist and primary care physician tell me I must not shovel snow. Now I can be fully compliant.
2. I am grateful that I assembled the snow thrower and charged its battery in advance. Sometimes I procrastinate until the last possible moment, not this time.
3. I am grateful for time to think. I am a lucky man and pastor so time to ponder, wander, reflect and contemplate are essential and allowed for me. No more, "Richard - stop day dreaming."
4. I'm grateful that my cousin Jolene and my sister stopped by for a minute. The connection with family has grown more important for me as my generation of our family finds itself to be the elders.
5. I am grateful that I persisted with the clerk at Kmart who told me that if I hadn't received an email or a text then the item I had ordered for in store pickup wasn't ready. I told her that their system had told me the item would be available the prior day. She seemed doubtful but physically went to check and there was my sweater. Saved a trip back to Lake Orion.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 22

1. I am grateful for the variety of activities happening tonight at Unity of Royal Oak. In addition to the usual Attitudinal Healing and Thursday Night Thrive we had Caught In Conversation. Incredible for a small congregation in a 6500 square foot facility!
2. I am grateful for our relationship with Song and Spirit Institute for Peace. Tonight, we hosted the second Caught In Conversation program where 85 people from the Abrahamic traditions (Christians, Jews & Muslims)  gathered around 11 tables to share a simple meal and some conversation about who we are and how our faith has been important to us. Awesome!
3. I am grateful for Imam Steve El Turk from IONA who is a peacemaker and an amazing man!
4. I am grateful for Cindy Jacques who jumps in wherever I ask her too and always delivers more than requested. She makes my life easier.
5. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and learn and grow and be immersed in a community of faith..

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 21

1. I am grateful for the decorations all around Unity of Royal Oak. I like Christmas lights and decorations a lot however, I don't put too much up at home at this time.
2. I am grateful for an amazing full winter moon. Makes me smile and wonder.
3. I am grateful for a few minutes with Hazzan Steve and Brother Al from Song and Spirit stopping by this morning.
4. I am grateful for the energy of our Sanctuary. I love to meditate there.
5. I am grateful for Dave and Dan, brothers who are long time residents of the neighborhood.  My driveway is now fully clear.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 20

1. I am grateful for the ways our Outreach Team supported our partner, "For The Seventh Generation" as they work with families in the the Foster Care system in Michigan. Another way  we can make love real.
2. I am grateful to lead this community called URO. Love is making a way.
3. I am grateful for the rapid response from Greg @ Leone's Outdoor Services today when I made an inquiry about clearing the sidewalks and the lot if it snows on the weekend. Now we have a plan in place.
4. I am grateful to work with other organizations. Thanks Rotary!  
5. I am grateful for the plans Kim Lange shared with me about the music planned for our Christmas Eve Candle Lighting service at 6 pm on December 24..

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 19

1. I am grateful for the still winter morning after the first snow storm of the season. The stillness of a crisp morning makes me smile.
2. I am grateful that I was able to get out of the driveway this morning. I had many errands to run and I wasn't sure I'd get out because I am not supposed to shovel snow per my cardiologist.
3. I am grateful that I was able to order the snow thrower I wanted and it will be delivered.  After traveling all over SE Michigan looking, I found the item on Amazon at the same price.
4. I am grateful for the help of my niece Ashley who came over and cleared a path for Porkchop to do his business and a path for my car from the garage out to the street through where the city plowed.
5. I am grateful for the assistance of a knowledgeable clerk at Restaurant Equippers who helped me assemble the right coffee system for Unity of Royal Oak. Makes my job so easy!

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 18

1. I am grateful for the Unity of Royal Oak Music Makers. Their dedication and talents bring joy to many.
2. I am grateful for Mark & Tatiana sharing the gift of music this morning, beautiful music on a snowy morning.
3. I am grateful for the hearty souls who came out in the snow to celebrate a day themed on Joy.
4. I am grateful for the folks out plowing and salting. Keeping the flow moving.
5. I am grateful for the Love that draws us together in celebration and service.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 17

Porkchop's New Blanket

1. I am grateful for this new blanket for Porkchop's bed in my home office that I bought at Aldi for a really good price. He seems to like it too since his old blanket was worn out and he likes to be covered up and warm.
2. I am grateful to have a plan in place for someone who can pick me up and get me to URO to deliver the Sunday lesson if the roads are too bad fr me to drive. It is important to me that we have service even if only a small number of people attend.  Carol has a Yukon, yeah!
3. I am grateful to have a warm house on this cold night. I am mindful of the many people in our area who are homeless and the many people working to provide shelter.
4. I am grateful to discover a young (he will be 16 on Christmas Eve) musical genius named Ethan Bortnick tonight on PBS. What a blessing he is as he inspires young people to transform the world. Wonderful talent and he reminds me that the best is yet to be so hang on world!
5. I am grateful to have a dishwasher which is running as I finish this blog entry and work on the sermon for tomorrow. For most of my life, I was the dishwasher.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 16

1. I am grateful for my dad teaching me long ago to label wires, in this case to put a twist tie on one. My new twist is to then take a picture with my phone.
2. I am grateful that I am able to notice my rising frustration level and chill before I make a big fuss and embarrass myself. This has not always been the case when talking to telephone or companies.
3. I am grateful for my ability to understand and apply technology. Helps me understand the trade offs.
4. I am grateful to my niece, Alicia and her husband who gave me their old TV stand when they went to a wall mount. It looks good and serves my purpose well.
5. I am grateful to find a way to maintain The Weather channel live as well as several other cable channels without cable. I like saving $100 per month and having access to stations I like in the event that I want to watch them.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 15

2016 Giving Tree

1. I am grateful for the growing traction that Outreach is establishing at URO because making the love that is God real has been a longstanding personal theme. #LoveIsOnTheMove
2. I am grateful for the very generous nature of our congregation as we reach out in love through projects like the Giving Tree which makes me feel happy and proud.
3. I am grateful that the energy that called me to join Unity of Royal Oak as Spiritual Leader is drawing the most amazing people with incredible passion, skills and spiritual gifts into community. Truly the dream I have long held for my life is unfolding in ways that are beyond what I had imagined.
4. I am grateful foe last Sunday's quarterly Town Hall Open Forum and the vision for our physical plant that continues to take shape. The building is not the church however it is a springboard and focal point for our community and the ways we  make Love ral and felt in the communities we are called to serve.
5. I am grateful for the ways that God made a way when I had all but given up on my calling. Grace given and gladly accepted.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 14

The Light of Christmas Shines for You!

1. I am grateful for the people in the neighborhood around our Spiritual Center who stop by to say how nice the decorations look and then inquire about who we are which gives me and opportunity to share my "elevator speech" about Unity of Royal Oak and invite them to attend.
2. I am grateful for Barbara'a suggestions about CPAP's and other Apnea therapies. Keep me from ignoring the issue.
3. I am grateful for the 18 hats that were stuffed in our mail slot when I opened up today. Little fluffs of love for Foster kids.
4. Grateful for good ideas for January theme that came out of my weekly meeting with Kim.
5. Grateful for an open and honest conversation about issues related to building rental. I appreciate it when people bring their concerns

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 13

The McKeeman Family!

The Music Makers of Unity of Royal Oak

1.  I am grateful for the McKeeman family. Tonight they brought an incredible energy of young families from many backgrounds into Unity of Royal Oak. Absolutely amazing!
2. I am grateful for the Music Makers of Unity of Royal Oak who were practicing at the other end of the building. Beautiful music for our Christmas Eve Candlelighting Service.
3. I am grateful that the leaking toilet in the ladies room in Fellowship Hall is repaired. It was not the several issues I thought it might be. Thanks Mac!
4. I am grateful for the growing energy around Unity of Royal Oak and our intention to be a presence for love and peace. For a short time 21 months ago, I wondered if it was just me.
5. I am grateful for completing the process of selecting a new health and dental plan. It takes a load off my mind.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 12

Kruse and Muer on Main St, Rochester

1. I am grateful for a wonderful birthday dinner at Kruse and Muer with my dear friend Cindy. It was good to catch up and to walk along Main St and look at all the Christmas Lights.
2. I am grateful that all of the socks had mates. Sometimes, when I do the laundry, I have single socks left when I am finished. Today, all the socks had mates.
3. I am grateful for being able to sleep late this morning. I accept the gift of time for me.
4. I am grateful to live in the Greater Rochester Area (Rochester + Rochester Hills). There is lots to do and see in any season, small city atmosphere, multiple restaurants adn lots of green space.
5. I am grateful to be me and happy. Who, how and where I am is perfect. Thanks Love!

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 11

Grandma and me in Ventura, CA around 1986

1. I am grateful for my maternal grandma, Esther Ledger. Today would have been her 105th birthday. She had a huge influence on me both genetically and in terms of my personality. She was smart, quirky, stubborn, a terrific cook and story teller, loving, curious and you always knew there was a little more to the story than she was telling. Thanks Grandma!
2. I am grateful for our creative director, Kim Lange, who knows how to suggest something that will stretch me in a way that I can hear. 
3. I am grateful for the sense own ownership that continues to grow at Unity of Royal Oak. Today, Simon and Harvey creatively got the power to the lights on the railing out front, 
4. I am grateful for the sense of centeredness that can emerge from a deep breath and a moment of prayer. This morning, I was feeling upside down with having crammed too many tasks into too short a time just before service. We finally found a moment to pray and in that moment I shifted.
5. I am grateful for this amazing song, The Heart of Christmas by Matthew West. This morning Julie Noe delivered this big time. Selfless love is heart of Christmas. Thanks Julie!

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 10

1. I am grateful for the season of Advent that leads up to Christmas. I consider advent a call to deepen my own spiritual practice in preparation for an authentic experience of Christ on Christmas.
2. I am grateful that my vocation and avocation are the same. For many years I made a living at a job and on the side I was a spiritual teacher. Since 2005 I have been employed as a minister.
3. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve families through officiating funerals and memorial services. My approach to the preparation for a Celebration of Life allows me an opportunity to connect deeply with families and get to know the person we are celebrating.
4. I am grateful to be the Spiritual Leader and Pastor at Unity of Royal Oak. There is nothing better in my book than amazing, beautiful people traveling and serving together.
5. I am grateful for the neighborhood I live in and especially the neighbors who live on either side. I have real neighbors who watch out for each other and lend a hand whether it is cutting back vines or helping me get Porkchop out when he got stuck under the deck. Have kind neighbors makes a huge difference in life.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 9

1. I am grateful for this daily practice of sharing 5 things I am grateful for and why. I appreciate the exploration of the why because it keeps me from resorting to quick answers.
2. I am grateful for the members of our Board of Trustees. Each of them brings gifts and talents that compliment mine and the other members of our board.
3. I am grateful for my Nexus 6 phone. I like the unclutter by bloatware fact that it is pure Google which also gives me quicker updates.
4. I am grateful to have a washer and dryer in my house. Growing up we (means me) often to do the laundry and a laundromat.
5. I am grateful for my friend and spiritual teacher, Martha Creek. She is authentic, to the point, supportive, smart and real.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 8

1. I am grateful for my sister's willingness to drive to my house on a cold rainy night to let Porkchop out to do his business. A late afternoon appointment in Clarkston took much longer than I originally planned and I was scheduled to lead a group discussion at Unity of Royal Oak at 7. Should I go back to URO and start the group ontime or stop at home and let Porkchop out after more than 8 hours without a potty break? Fortunately my sister was willing to let him out, play with feed and generally love on him. 
2.  I am grateful fort the Thursday Night Thrive circle tonight. Safe, supportive and sacred--for all of us.
3. I am grateful for Sandy Hess and her insights and support. It is good to have someone to talk through the tough feelings with and to have the perspective of another person.
4. I am grateful that the time of an automatic death sentence from AIDS has stopped (at least here in the US.) On this World Aids Day, I remember the way too many personal friends that died from the mid 1980's until Doug's death in 1997. So much grief for so long I could hardly cry. 
5. I am grateful that there are alternatives to driving on the expressway. The past few years I have noticed that driving on the freeway at night when it is raining or snowing can bring on a bit of anxiety especially in unfamiliar or dark areas. So, I get off and drive the surface roads. It is good to have options.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 7

I Am Leaf Mowing Man

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

1. I am grateful to get home in time to spend an hour and a ha;f mowing leaves before it got dark. This may be the last leaf mowing day before snow hits.
2. I am grateful there there were enough leftover scalloped potatoes for supper. Scalloped potatoes are comfort food that reminds me of Grandma Ledger.
3. I am grateful for the young lady who walked into Unity of Royal Oak today and asked, "What is this place?" As I shared my 3 minutes elevator speech and gave her some information about our Spiritual Community, she smiled and said she was very interested and would be back to check us out.
4. I am grateful that I did not get married out of high school like so many gay men of my generation did in order to do what was expected. I was engaged and was headed down the path of hiding our in a marriage. Fortunately, I knew who I was and that things would not be fair the the woman I was engaged to marry.
5. I am grateful for the play "Fun Home" that a group of us saw tonight. So many memories were stireed up, so many reminders of the way things were in the not too distant past. Thinking of Rich among others.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 6

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why without repeats.

1. I am grateful that I am able to reflect on who I am and how I show up in the world. I am not always right or wrong. I am in process always. This ability allows me to correct course, to change, to choose and to choose again.
2. I am grateful that I have learned that my feelings won't destroy me. I have gotten through difficult experiences and upsetting events.
3. I am grateful for the tool of Inquiry known as The Work that found me one day during a ministers meeting in the form of a package from a publisher that contained a book titled "A Thousand Names For Joy" by Byron Katie . The Work is simple and deep and has helped me notice and rewrite the story of my life. A process that continues.
4. I am grateful that I have learned that what other people think of me is what they think of me and has little, if anything, to do with who I am. The realization has been liberating from chasing after approval and love.
5. I am grateful that I can imagine things differently than they appear. Over my life I have used the power of imagination to stretch, grow, become, heal and transform my experience of life.
6. U am grateful I can change my mind. I am not stuck in a thought system or beliefs or a story. I am a unique point through which Life is expressing itself.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks as a Way of Living - Day 5

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for Song & Spirit Institute for Peace. I met Brother Al, Hazzan Steve and Mary several years ago at a Good Friday service at Renaissance Unity. I have become friends of the three founders and a member of their Board of Directors. Tonight I was elected as the Board Chair. I love the practical ways that they allow Love to guide the work they do. I am honored to serve with them.
2. I am grateful to acknowledge the rains that have fallen in the Southeastern part of our nation over the past few days. Edwene Gains posted Thank God for the rain today on Facebook. Indeed, I take water for granted at times.
3. I am grateful for words that come to me when people call me and are wondering what to do or think now about a situation or circumstance in their lives. When I am still, ideas flow through me, blessings others and blessing me too.
4. I am grateful to know that there is always something I can do to bring more light into our world. Prayer, meditation, letter writing, phone calls to people in positions of power. These area all steps that lead to change.
5. I am grateful that I can hear the snoring of my dog, Porkchop, as he sleeps next to my desk. He reminds me I am never alone.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks as a Way of Living - Day 5

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for Song & Spirit Institute for Peace. I met Brother Al, Hazzan Steve and Mary several years ago at a Good Friday service at Renaissance Unity. I have become friends of the three founders and a member of their Board of Directors. Tonight I was elected as the Board Chair. I love the practical ways that they allow Love to guide the work they do. I am honored to serve with them.
2. I am grateful to acknowledge the rains that have fallen in the Southeastern part of our nation over the past few days. Edwene Gains posted Thank God for the rain today on Facebook. Indeed, I take water for granted at times.
3. I am grateful for words that come to me when people call me and are wondering what to do or think now about a situation or circumstance in their lives. When I am still, ideas flow through me, blessings others and blessing me too.
4. I am grateful to know that there is always something I can do to bring more light into our world. Prayer, meditation, letter writing, phone calls to people in positions of power. These area all steps that lead to change.
5. I am grateful that I can hear the snoring of my dog, Porkchop, as he sleeps next to my desk. He reminds me I am never alone.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks as a Way of Living - Day 4

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for Courtney Wrubel and her gift of music today. The Andra Day song Rise Up was amazing.
2. I am grateful that I am in the right lace at the right time always. As I walked into RenUnity this afternoon, a dear lady that I know well was learning that her son was found non responsive in his home. 
3. I am grateful to have a message of Hope & Faith to share this morning. Together we are expecting our Good because God is at the very center of us all.
4. I am grateful that I was able to attend the Celebration of Life service for Chris McKee. So many friend that I have not seen since I left Renaissance Unity to assume to leadership at Unity of Royal Oak. So many hugs!
5. I am grateful to have been around since the inception of The Gospel Truth at Church of Today. It was an amazing time in the live of the church and in my life as well. It was so cool to watch many of the members of TGT come together today to bless Chris McKee on his way.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way of Living - Day 3

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for Porkchop - my dog, because he reminds me everyday not to take anything too seriously.
2. I am grateful to Deanna and Colene for selecting me as their wedding officiant. I have known these two for several years and am honored to facilitate their marriage after 23.95 years.
3. I am grateful for my scalloped potato making skills. Growing up my favorite places to be was with either of my grandmothers in their respective kitchens. Tonight, I made cheesy scalloped potatoes with ham and was so aware of my grandmother Ledger as I sliced and chopped.
4. I am grateful for retirement savings. After several; years without saving for retirement, I received my welcome package from the 403(b) plan for Unity Worldwide Ministries - woot!
5. I am grateful to hear about the neighbor who stopped this morning to compliment our volunteers on the way the grounds look at Unity of Royal Oak. One of our goals is to be a good neighbor and it is gratifying to know that the neighbors appreciate the efforts  of our team.

Always in Love,

Ric

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#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 2

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for the team of volunteers who gathered this afternoon to begin decorating Unity of Royal Oak for the HolyDays! The color, shimmer and light of Christmas add to the mystical experience of this time of year.
2. I am grateful for the song "Into The Wild" by LP because it makes me feel like the beginning of an adventure. Each decade of my life has had a predominate "adventure." 
3. I am grateful for the ideas and perspective that Kim Lange brings to preparing celebration services. Since she joined our team as Creative Director earlier this year, the collaboration has been very satisfying.
4. I am grateful for the stillness of early morning. Morning is when I am usually most productive in terms of writing or studying. Ideas flow into form with minimal "thinking."
5. I am grateful that my car is in the garage at night because there is less scraping of windows and an expanded sense of security. People can't tell whether someone is home or not.

Loving this Blessed Life,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

Thanks As A Way Of Living - Day 1 (Happy Thanksgiving)

Thanks as a Way of Living - my gratitude practice till the end of the year (at least). A minimum, of five things each day that I am grateful for and why. Oh, and no repeats.

1. I am grateful for my mom, Deanna Beattie. Although she is gone from this physical dimension, she is with me in my thoughts, attitudes, feelings and in my family members. My mother taught through her example that happiness is not dependent on money. She gave of herself to us kids and to anyone who was around her. Taking people to pick up their Focus Hope food distribution was something she did for years. It was my birthday two days ago, and mom was so with me. Although she had little money she would always buy me a little gift even though I asked her not to for many years. The last few years they were dollar store gifts, but they each carried a mother's priceless love. Thanks for the love and for the raising.
2. I am grateful for the music on the CD Celtic Christmas Vol 2 from Windham Hill.  I have had this CD for twenty years and it is one of the first I play each season. It evokes awesome memories of prior holidays seasons and helps stir up the Spirit of Christmas within me. I am listening as I write this blog entry
3. I am grateful for the steaming cup of Good Earth Sweet & Spicy tea I am enjoying on this November day. I was introduced to Sweet & Spicy tea this past April while vacationing in Big Sur, California with friends Martha Creek and Diane Czerwonka. The three of us went to a spa which was my first time at a spa. What a wonderful, liberating day. Martha and Diane helped me move beyond my story about why I never experienced a spa day.
4. I am grateful for the opportunity yesterday afternoon to deliver the gift of Thanksgiving Dinner to two families that are part of our spiritual community. In ways that I could not have imagined, the gift from Unity of Royal Oak was a blessings to these two families and beyond them. Our overall Thanksgiving Dinner program reached thirteen families this year which has made this pastor very happy.
5. I am grateful that two days ago, on Nov 22, I celebrated 61 years of living. There was a time when I was not so sure I'd make it past 40. My thinking about love and life had gotten very twisted and I had lost myself down the rabbit hole of addiction to cocaine. I am grateful that Spirit found a way for my long abandoned hopes and dreams to come into demonstration beyond my wildest hopes.

Always in Love,

Ric

#LivingThanks

(c) 2016 by Richard L. Beattie, All Rights Reserved

What Do You Expect?

What is your expectation for this day? How about this year or even for the rest of your life? Do you expect that everything is working together  on your behalf and for your favor? Are prosperity and abundance concepts that are money centric? How do you gauge success?

How satisfied are you in your life? Do you enjoy each day, each experience? Are you involved with activities that cause you to smile frequently and that make your heart sing? Are you blessed by wonderful friendships? Are your heart and mind open to Love?


There are no "right" or "wrong" answers. Take a breath and feel the truth of the statement. There are no "right" or "wrong" answers; there are only your answers in this moment.

I ask these questions of myself  because I appreciate questions that don't necessarily have easy answers. I love questions that help me discover and transform me and my world. Perhaps you are asking yourself some of these same things?

Rather than rush my own answers, I am guided to live in these questions for a while. My ponderings will emerge on June 5 in the Sunday lesson at Unity of Royal Oak - #MoreThanAChurch - A Center for Conscious Living

Peace on your journey,
Ric

Goodnight Mamma

At 18:44 this evening, our mother, Deanna Beattie, passed from this life/consciousness/dimension into the next.

I will wrote something for this spot but not tonight.

Listening

Sitting with my mom while listening to the sounds of erratic breathing with long pause's between breaths.

Listening to the hum and cycling of the oxygen concentrator. A television in another room is providing background sounds. Occasionally hearing Porkchop's nails clicking on the floor as he wanders.

Listening to the sound of Ashley making carrot cupcakes in the kitchen.

Listening wondering if Mom's last breath has been breathed.

Then the answer, not yet.

I continue meditation and listening with my heart.

Yes, a Good Friday.

I am thinking now about how much fun I've had with my mom over these 60 plus years. We've played a lot of card and board games and laughed so hard our sides hurt. One of the big lessons mom has taught be example is that having fun doesn't have to be costly. We've done a lot of crazy things  and a whole lot of just everyday stuff.

As I sat with my mom today I noticed that she was having a lot of periods of REM rapid eye movement sleep. I wonder what she's dreaming about now?

Mama's farther away today yet her energy iss still strong. She didn't really rally while I was with her. Or maybe she did just a little bit. It is as though two dimensions are intersecting. Initially she was more here; now she is more there.

I love you Mom. And I'm grateful for you, because I wouldn't have become me without you.

Thoughts

Grateful for a long talk today with my dear friend and teacher Martha Creek. Helpful for me to remain open to the possibility in every moment of this experience of my mother's transition.

Grateful for a call from Jim Lee this afternoon. Jim has been my boss, colleague, mentor and friend over the years.

This afternoon my calendar notified me that my mother would be staying with me from tonight through Monday. Originally the plan was for mom to stay with me so that Dion and Jeremy could enjoy Easter weekend away. It is interesting to me how much can change in one week. Last Thursday, I took mom to see Dr. Barnes so mom could see if she had a cold.

When I got to my sister's house around 5:30 this afternoon my family had already gathered, I love their energy as I came into the house. When I went to see mom, I noticed that she seemed much farther away. She rallied a couple of times when I was with her one-on-one, but my sense is she is pulling away from this dimension. I know it is the right and perfect way of it. After saying a prayer of blessing for her journey, I said I love you. She opened her eyes for a moment and then seemed to drift away. Still present but smaller ...

Musical Moments & More

Mom has always loved music and she has shared a lot of music with  us over the years. I also have an eclectic and far ranging interest in music. I heard this song called "EYE" by the group Brandi Carlisle on SiriusXM Coffee House  a few months ago. One day it came on the radio when I was driving mom to a doctor appointment and she loved it. So I got would play it for he on Youtube and she would sing along. Tonight, I streamed the  song while I was sitting with her and she sang parts of the chorus. "You can dance in a hurricane, but only if you're standing in the eye."

 

Occasionally over the last few months mom would ask me to play some songs for her, often Cat Stevens or Elton John. We would sit ant my house and I'd cast Youtbube to the TV and she would listen and laugh. I shared many groups that she had not heard of like HomeFree -  a favorite of mine who sing country acapella. She likes their version of Ring of Fire

There was a VeggieTales song popular when my three nieces, Ashley, Alicia and Jordan were small called "A Bushel And A Peck" that was a kids version of the musical from Guy's and Dolls. Mom would sing the Doris Day song with the girls adding a few lyrics of her own and they all loved it. This evening while sitting with mom, I started to sing the song and she opened her eye and then sang along.

I am grateful for today's moments and memories with mom and also grateful for the presence of family gathered in conversation and sharing a meal as we hold a space for mom. Many in their turn sitting with mom and sharing love. Love my family.

The First Tough Night

Dion called me early this morning to tell me that mom had a rough night last night. Mom is weaker and last night was her fifth night without dialysis.

On Monday the nurse had told me that because of mom's renal failure that things could probably progress  quickly. The body is unable to deal with the waste products and they build up in the system. What I know is that my mother will pass right on time.

Mom has seemed more at peace than anytime in the last two years. She's also been enjoying eating many of the things that she hasn't been able to eat such as a hot fudge sundae and having a glass of milk with a sandwich. In some ways her appetite has been better than it has been for a while.

My task has been to keep my mind in the moment. Not projecting what I think comes next, being present to what is here and now. I'm grateful for the tools of the work in the way that modality is alive in me.

I'll go out to see mom after work today.