Unity of Greenville Podcast: Recent Episodes
Unity of Greenville
Unity of Greenville is an inter-denominational church based on the practical teachings of Jesus Christ - often referred to as Positive, Practical Spirituality.
Our main focus is to be a light where we are and articulate a positive vision for the world. We are created in the image and likeness of God, here to live life, and live it more abundantly. Everything we do is based upon the commandment of love which is expressed as two wonderful ideas:
- To love God with your whole heart, mind, soul, and strength
- To love others as you love yourself
Visit us at: www.unitychurchofgreenville.org
The 2000s connected the world. But did we find what we were looking for?
This Sunday, we continue Unity Through the Decades.
We’ll explore:
The innovations that connected us – smartphones, social media, the cloudThe science that proved what Unity has taught for generations – neuroplasticity, mirror neuronsThe books that changed the conversation – The Power of Now, The Secret, The Four AgreementsThe movies that reminded us of the sacred – Avatar, The Lord of the Rings, Peaceful WarriorThe question: “Who am I when the screen goes dark?” Awakening in an Interconnected WorldDownload
The 1990s were a decade of questions.
The Berlin Wall fell. The Cold War ended. The old enemies disappeared. And suddenly – we had nothing to believe in.
So we started looking everywhere – the music, movies and the internet! And the blinking cursor just waited. But what were we suppose to write?
This Sunday, we continue Unity Through the Decades with Week Five: The Blinking Cursor. We’ll explore:
What if God was one of us? Joan Osborne was singing/asking and we wanted to knowThe search for meaning – angels, aliens – was the truth “out there?”The internet – the great disrupter that changed everythingAnd the question: “What do I actually believe and how do I live it?” The Blinking CursorDownload
The 1980s gave us a lot. MTV. The personal computer. Big hair. And a question we’re still trying to answer: “What can I become?”
But here’s the thing about the 1980s – behind all that ambition and success, there was a deeper story. A story about fear and division, but also a story about a generation that learned to dream big and then had to figure out what it all meant.
This Sunday, we continue Unity Through the Decades with Week Four: From Success to Significance.
We’ll explore:
What happens when success becomes identity?Why were we so afraid of strangers, Satanists, and each other?What did the Jesus People Movement teach us about the Christ within?And the big one: How does my success bless the whole? The 1980sDownload
By 1970, the dream of the 1960s had soured. The assassinations. The war that wouldn’t end. The counterculture that had turned into addiction and disillusionment. The revolution hadn’t come. And so the question became: “Now what?”
We’ll explore the decade that turned inward – not as an escape, but as a profound spiritual realization. The 1970s taught us that changing governments and institutions wasn’t enough. Lasting change required transforming consciousness.
Whether you remember the 1970s or only know them from movies and music, there’s a place for you in this conversation. Because the questions the 1970s asked are still our questions today.
1970sDownload
The 1960s gave us a lot. Bob Dylan. The Beatles. Woodstock. The moon landing. And also – a question we’re still trying to answer:
“Is this all there is?”The 1950s gave us stability. The 1960s gave us the courage to ask if stability was enough.
This Sunday, we continue Unity Through the Decades with Week Two: Breaking Open the Self.
We’ll ask:
What were they really looking for?Why did music become scripture?How did Eastern spirituality and the Human Potential Movement change everything?And the big one: Is God found inside – or through collective action? July 5Download
The 1950s called. They want their rabbit ears back! lol
This Sunday, we begin our six-week series Unity Through the Decades where we will be traveling back in time – not for nostalgia, but for revelation!
The 1950s gave us the television – and with it, a shared script. Leave It to Beaver. Father Knows Best. The perfect lawn. The perfect family. The perfect smile. But underneath the black-and-white surface, something was stirring.
We’re going to explore:
The music that shook the hips and the parents, the movies that mirrored our dreams and our fears, the Unity teachings that remind us: There is only Presence, and it’s always broadcasting, even when we’ve forgotten how to tune in, Unity’s own history, both the light and the shadow, the progress and the unfinished work. Whether you remember the 1950s or only know them from movies, there’s a place for you in this conversation. Because the 1950s aren’t just back then. They’re still alive in the scripts we follow, the fears we hide, and the parts of ourselves we’re still learning to sing.
I don’t know about you, but sometimes the noise just gets to be too much.The deadlines. The news. The inner critic that never seems to take a break. And somewhere in all that screaming, I can lose the quiet part of myself.But this week, I was looking back on the years I homeschooled two of our boys. And I remembered one voice that was part of our daily routine. Every afternoon we would gather at the television for a lesson with a quiet, steady presence that taught us something far bigger than any textbook.He never raised his voice. He turned smudges into beauty. He looked at a mess and said, “I can work with this.” That’s a different way to live! Not louder. Not faster. Just – differently. This Sunday, I want to share what I found.It won’t be what you expect. You won’t need to be an artist or have your life together. Just bring yourself. Bring your noise. Bring your mistakes.We’ll sit together, learn something simple, and leave a little lighter than we came.Don’t Scream, Just PaintDownload
A Unity Goes to the Cinema message featuring the powerful and inspiring exploration of the film War Horse viewed through a Unity and metaphysical lens.
Together we’ll discover timeless lessons about loyalty, resilience, compassion, and the invisible bonds that connect all life. Through the remarkable journey of a horse caught in the turmoil of war, we’ll explore deeper truths about humanity’s evolution, the cost of conflict, and the healing power of love that transcends all boundaries.
Filled with meaningful insights, inspiring quotes, and practical spiritual applications, this message will invite you to see both yourself and the world with greater wisdom, hope, and compassion.
War Horse – The Soul That Cannot Be BrokenDownload
Why do certain patterns, relationships, struggles, or lessons keep appearing in our lives? What if the challenges you’ve faced are not random setbacks, but clues pointing toward your deeper purpose and spiritual growth? In this lesson, we uncover the major themes of your life, not just the wounds or struggles, but the healing, wisdom, and transformation trying to emerge through them. Blending modern psychology, spirituality, metaphysics, and practical reflection tools, this message will help you recognize recurring patterns, discover hidden meaning in your experiences, and see your life story through a more empowered and compassionate lens.
You may never look at your journey the same way again.
Discover the Themes of Your LifeDownload
What if Spirit is speaking to you all the time through conversations, coincidences, dreams, frustrations, songs, nature, relationships, and even life’s interruptions!?
This Sunday we are going to go on an inspirational exploration into how to receive a spiritual message from anything. Together we’ll discover how ordinary moments can become sacred teachers, how recurring patterns may reveal deeper truths, and how greater awareness can transform the way you see your life.
As always, we’ll use a little humor, offer a little insight and practical tools, and share some metaphysical wisdom to help you listen beneath appearances and awaken to the guidance already surrounding you.
How to Receive Spiritual MessagesDownload
Unity Principle Five: The Law of Action
Knowing and understanding the laws of life—also called truth—is not enough. A person must live the truth that he or she knows.
Action and service is the way we demonstrate our beliefs.
Through thoughts, words and actions, we live in the truth we know. Knowledge of these spiritual principles is not enough. We live and demonstrate them through our actions.
“It’s the action, not the fruit of the action, that’s important. You have to do the right thing. It may not be in your power, may not be in your time, that there will be any fruit. But that doesn’t mean you stop doing the right thing. You may never know what results come from your actions. But if you do nothing, there will be no result.”
~Mahatma Gandhi
Rev Karen Patrick explores Unity Principle Four, focusing on prayer and meditation as transformative practices that connect us with divine consciousness. Embracing these tools helps us understand our true selves and radiate authenticity into the world.
She discusses how these practices enhance our awareness of our divine connection, moving us beyond surface thinking to align with the infinite presence within. Through insights and experiences, we’ll learn how they deepen spiritual awareness and empower us to live with greater clarity, peace, and purpose. We will explore how to understand prayer and meditation beyond abstract ideas, helping us integrate them into daily life. You’ll gain methods to quiet the mind, open the heart, and embrace the present as a chance to connect with divine wisdom.
Human beings create their experiences through thinking. Everything in the physical realm begins with thoughts. We create life experiences through thinking, feelings, beliefs, and attitudes. The energy we resonate sends a signal that makes our experiences. The law of mind action (Law of attraction) is the idea that thoughts are the blueprint for reality in the physical world. Positive and negative thoughts are produced after their kind. Heaven and Hell are states of mind, not literal places in the afterlife.
We are co-creators with God, creating reality through thoughts. We are not victims. We are the creators of our experiences and want to accept responsibility (not blame). When we take responsibility for our experiences, we are empowered to consciously create what we truly need.
“But principles do not change; humans make their heaven or hell, just as they did two thousand or two million years ago”
Charles Fillmore“If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn’t sit for a month.”
Theodore Roosevelt“You are one thing only. You are a Divine Being. An all-powerful Creator. You are a Deity in jeans and a t-shirt, and within you dwells the infinite wisdom of the ages and the sacred creative force of All that is, will be and ever was.”
~Anthon St. Maarten“You cannot fool God (Principle), so don’t make a fool of yourself! You will harvest what you plant.”
Galatians 6:7
The 2nd principle of Unity reveals the nature of the human being and who we really are from a spiritual perspective. We are made in the image of God and have the spark of Divinity within. We are inherently good.
Our first nature is love, but our secondary nature is ego. How we choose to express it is up to each one of us. Often, our programming causes us to react from our ego rather than our spirit. Living from your divine self stems from having a spiritual awakening. As you embody the Christ self, you become a healing force in the world. There are only two kinds of people in the world: those waking up and those continuing to slumber in unconsciousness.
“Christ in you the hope of glory.”
Colossians 1:27“As the body is moved by mind, so the mind is moved by ideas; and right here in the mind we find the secret of the universe. This is where Jesus differed from ordinary men: He knew He was the Son of God; He knew the power of spiritual ideas to do mighty works: “The Father abiding in me is doing the work.”
Charles Fillmore
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent.The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good.The Formative Power of Thought.The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence).The Law of Demonstration. For the month of January, we explore the 5 basic Unity principles and we begin with the foundation: Oneness
This time of year evokes many feelings; some feelings are wonderful and filled with joy and hope. It may also be a time of mourning for others because of loss and disappointment. We need to honor people wherever they are in their current situation. All of us have had our ups and downs throughout our lives. It is part of being human. One thing we know for sure is that the situation will change, and so will we!
At the same time, if you can, you are invited to make peace with the past, accept the present moment as it shows up, and get ready for what is to come. The Christ child was born during war, strife, and misunderstanding. The Christ in you is reborn through you every minute of every day. What you look at and focus on becomes your reality. We don’t deny that there is much uncertainty in the world. Who knows what’s coming next?
What do our principles teach us? God’s got this, and we are going to be okay. Let’s look at the lights and the decorations on the Christmas tree. It symbolizes the beautiful expression of a person that shines with joy from within. You are the Christmas tree that has been planted right where you are to shine the light that you have. During this Holiday season, take some time to remember what the greater truth is and what you choose to believe.
“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I come with good tidings of great joy”
Luke 2:10“Christmas magic is silent. You don’t hear it— you feel it. You know it. You believe it”.
Kevin Alan Milne
Love is essential because it builds us up and feeds our souls. Without love, the world would be a cold, dark place. Sometimes, we have to give first to prime the pump. The message of Jesus is to heal the brokenhearted and to open the eyes of the spiritually blind. Christmas time is about giving and receiving. Even though we may give a material gift, we do it from love, not guilt. We understand that giving is a blessing and a privilege.
On Sunday, we will continue discussing the mission of the Christ. We will answer the question about what Jesus meant when he spoke about the concept of salvation in the Bible. We will talk about how we can create the beloved community of heaven on earth. The practical message of the gospel is that we can have a happy and prosperous life here in this world, where it is needed!
We appreciate your generosity and how you show it and are grateful for those who can give a special offering to Unity during the Christmas season. Because of your thoughtfulness, the transformative message of Unity is shared with the world.
Join us as we light the advent candle for Love.
“Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another”
1 John 4:11“Love is what the universe is made of”
Anonymous“A baby is born with a need to be loved, and never outgrows it”
Frank A. Clark
Why are peacemakers so important? It is because they express the true nature of divinity in the highest sense. Peace is created inside our being through quiet contemplation. As we calm our minds and enter the realm of infinite, divine creativity, we develop a more peaceful state of being.
There is a point of inner stillness at the center of your being. It is the meeting place of divinity and humanity. Through the spiritual practice of allowing worrisome thoughts to become less and less, a calming spirit of peace grows more and more.
It takes courage to speak your truth when the fashionable thing to do is poke fun at peacekeepers. Without peacemakers keeping the high watch, the world would descend into chaos. This Sunday, we will discuss Jesus’ mission and how we can better understand the light of peace.
“A bad habit is like a flat tire; if you don’t change it, you will never go anywhere.”
inspirationboost.com“We can complain because rose bushes have thorns or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses.”
Abraham Lincoln“We all know that light travels faster than sound. That’s why certain people appear bright until you hear them speak.”
Albert Einstein
As we begin the journey of advent together, we will move from darkness to light. We will discover the keys of faith, peace, love, and joy along the path. These are the fruits of living an abundant life. Our demonstration of a positive spiritual practice set us up for a rewarding experience.
In this lesson, we will light the candle of faith. This will signify our belief and trust in a positive good. Faith is what will lead us forward on this journey with steadfastness and consistency. Faith is more about the journey and less about where we are going. Faith is invisible to the eyes and is more substantive than the food you ate for lunch.
Some of the questions that will be answered in this lesson are: what is the art of worship? Why is silence essential to our well-being? What does quantum science have to do with faith? How do I keep going when I don’t feel it?
“Faith is the strength by which a shattered world shall emerge into the light”
Helen Keller“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies”
Mother Theresa
Have you ever taken a gratitude day? A day so full of appreciation that your cup literally overflows. Gratitude is another word for love and will put you in touch with your good. It is a way we can demonstrate how we really feel inside. We can project our feelings and thoughts to others around us. We turn off the fearful words, pictures and actions of disconnectedness and we focus totally on the all loving goodness of the universe.
Thanksgiving is a sacred holiday that invites us to send love and gratitude to the world around us. It is time to let go of the past and to embrace the present moment. Together we create a future that is worthy of us. We get to play in the fields of potential and possibility. What good thing is coming next? It may be easier to keep talking about the negatives, but it’s way more fun to envision the positive realities that want to manifest in our everyday lives!
“Want to make your blessings count – count your blessings.”
Johnson Oatman Jr
What is Attitude: a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person’s behavior. Your constant and consistent frame of mind. If I could take a picture of your mind what kind offrames would be revealed?
In this world we sometimes forget that life was meant to be a blessing. God is for us and not against us! We all need an attitude adjustment from time to time in order to see life for the gift that it really is.
“True forgiveness is when you can say, ‘Thank you for that experience.”
Oprah Winfrey“Wear gratitude like a cloak, and it will feed every corner of your life.”
Rumi
Communion: The sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, this exchange can be on a mental, emotional or spiritual level. Communion is a moment of grace and inner reflection.
The ancient ritual of drinking wine and eating bread can be a beautiful way to remember our divine connection. By feeding on the words of life and drinking in the teachings of truth we discover more freedom and understanding.
We also gain clarity about our spiritual identity when we communicate with the Divine in the stillness of our being. Our inner listening is best when the mind is quiet. We shift our thoughts toward peace and the voice of divinity speaks.
Unity of Greenville, is a haven of peace, for you!
“Do this in remembrance of me.”
Luke 22:19“Love is the religion, and the universe is the book.”
Rumi
From time to time, it is essential to clarify our mission and purpose and remind each other what our calling is and if we are on track to fulfill it. The mission and purpose of Unity of Greenville is to be “A haven of peace where everyone is loved and empowered through positive and practical spirituality.” We want to remain true to our mission to reach our destination or destiny.
What does it mean to be a “haven of peace?” What is included in the mission? What do we care about? What are we passionate about? What do we want to accomplish? What are the steps?
These are some of the questions we will be asking ourselves this Sunday. We want to inspire you to live your best life and be aware of Unity’s collective vision along with your hopes, visions, and dreams. “He who wishes to secure the good of others has already secured his own.” ~ Confucius
“Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so he may run who reads it. For still, the vision awaits its appointed time; it is moving forward, and it will not lie. If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come and not delay.
~ Habakkuk 2:2-3“My mission is to create a world where we can live in harmony with nature.”
~Jane Goodall“I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back”
~ Maya Angelou
Autumn is here; the leaves change to gold, red, yellow, and orange. Nature puts on a show of color and splendor. The nights are growing cold, and the days are warm. We live in a beautiful paradise! Life is lovely, for sure.
Wait a minute! This is also Halloween—the time of werewolves, monsters, and other creepy things that go bump in the night. Be fair warned; things could get spooky for you this Sunday. We wonder if you dare to come and face your shadow of fears. It may feel like a lot is going on in the world that brings up fear for you. That is understandable. But we’ve got some good news. Don’t worry too much about the ghosts and goblins; they can’t hurt you! Give them a sweet treat, and you’ll watch them run far away.
Affirmations
I choose love over fear today.My fearful thinking is not real.Fear is simply a story I tell myself in my mind.I let go of the story and the feelings attached to it.Today, I am writing a new story where fear has no place.When I am fully present, my fear goes away.The future no longer frightens me.
Wouldn’t it be great if there was a simple way to deal with a challenge in your life? Relationships, family matters, stressful situations, and money shortfalls are common challenges you may be dealing with.
We are all connected to the spiritual forces of the universe, and we can connect with the Divine Source whenever we need or want to. Unfortunately, we live in a world that has accepted a negative bias. We try to deal with life strictly on the physical level. This is only one aspect of life and what it looks like in outward appearance. By answering the challenge through an energetic and spiritual awareness, I can get to the root of the matter. Unless we uncover the root, we will stay in the challenge and continue to generate it!
“You can decree a thing; it will happen to you, and the light will shine in all your ways.”
~Job 22:28“In that still moment, after self had failed, there came a glorious vision of God’s power, and, lo, my prayer was answered in that hour.”
~Lowell Fillmore
What does it mean to love yourself?
If we love ourselves, are we being selfish?
Can I be happy if I don’t love myself?
The ego persona is a fictional character created through beliefs, attitudes and reactions. The persona is like the moon and reflects the light of the sun/Spirit.
Loving self means to love all of yourself. Some aspects are easier to love than others. To be whole, we have to love all of the so-called good and bad parts, the whole self! This is the way to heal.
I am surrounded by people who love me and who I love.
I am worthy of being loved.
I attract people who can help me heal through love.
The love I have for myself and others is beyond words.
I am open to receive and give love.
Part 4 Of Our Prosperity Series!
We continue our series on prosperity this week with some questions. Is money the root of all evil? Is it wrong to have wealth? Is money good or bad? How can we manifest money when we need it? How can gratitude change our emotional state? We want to clarify some of these ideas and bring them into the light of understanding.
Science tells us that everything can be reduced to a few primal elements, and that even if the entire universe was destroyed, it could be built up again from a single cell. In like manner, you can expand or rebuild your wealth and abundance from a single right attitude which you persistently hold to. There is something about joyous persistence that can produce results in your life.
Sarah Sparks, author of, “144 Wealth Codes: To Unlock the Abundance Within” (sarahsparks.love) joins us in the discussion.
“Wealth is not his that has it, but his that enjoys it.”
Benjamin Franklin“Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can.”
John Wesley “The blessing of God makes a person rich, and adds no sorrow with it.”
Proverbs 10:22
All of us have dreams that we want to see come into manifestation. We have worthy and attainable goals yet feel less than capable of reaching them. Did you know that science is beginning to hint at the reality of a realm where anything can and does happen? They tell us of a field of unlimited possibilities outside our usualthinking patterns.
The power to manifest belongs to all of us, and we do it daily. Wouldn’t it be great to become conscious about what we manifest? Once you understand this law of manifestation, you will want to work with it, see it bless you, and not hold you back.
My life is in harmony with my Divine Source.
I am co-creating life with Divinity.
I am aware of the creative power within me.
I now understand that I am responsible.
“Now faith is the assurance (evidence) of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it, the people of old received their commendation. By faith, we understand that the universe was created by the word of God so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible”
Hebrews 11:1-3“The atoms or elementary particles themselves are not real; they form a world of potentialities or possibilities rather than one of things or facts”
Werner Heisenberg
This is week two of our discussion on prosperity. Last week, we talked about blessing everyone and everything in your life. We want to look for and experience the blessings that are already there. We also discovered that our words are full of powerful energy. We have heard back from various people about how they are now paying closer attention to what they say. In this way, they can stop complaining before they start. You are invited to continue this simple practice and enjoy the benefits! Bless it all!
In this lesson, we focus on Intention and what ‘intending something to happen’ means. Unfortunately, most of our intentions can boost the ego for a temporary fix and not give us the desired outcome. We will discuss how intentions come from our spirit, not our brain. The brain is interested in doing rather than being. Do you know the difference?
“Prosperity is a way of living and thinking, and not just money or things. Poverty is a way of living and thinking, and not just a lack of money or things.”
Eric Butterworth“As you become the power of intention, you’ll see your dreams being fulfilled almost magically, and you’ll see yourself creating huge ripples in the energy fields of others by your presence and nothing more. Until you transcend the ego, you can do nothing but add to the insanity of the world.“
Wayne Dyer“Give freely and become more wealthy; be stingy and lose everything. The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will be refreshed.”
Proverbs 11:24-25
Prosperity is not only a way of living and thinking not only about money, but for your physical, mental, and spiritual wellbeing. A successful flourishing or thriving condition. Awareness that God’s good is everywhere, all the time.
Universal Intelligence has designed the world to be abundant so that all creatures can have what they need. Bananas grow in bunches as do grapes. Apple trees will grow and blossom almost anywhere they are planted. Most people with gardens will have an excess of vegetables to share. Nature is giving us a bounty of abundance to nourish and to feed us!
We are all supported by this Divine Source that wants us to be happy and always have more than enough.
“Words of truth, or affirmations, do not become true because you affirm them. You affirm them because they are true. You synchronize your consciousness with the reality of the truth.”
Eric Butterworth“Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow [seed] nor reap [the harvest] nor gather [the crops] into barns, and yet our Divine Source keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they are?”
Matthew 6:26“When I chased after money, I never had enough. When I got my life on purpose and focused on giving of myself and everything that arrived into my life, then I was prosperous.”
Wayne Dyer
“There is just one more agreement, it’s the one that allows the other three to become deeply ingrained habits.” This agreement that we are to make with ourselves says, “always do your best.” Doing your best does not mean perfection, or mastery. It is simply the idea of doing your best in whatever circumstances you find yourself in.
Whatever happens, I choose to do my best. Not what someone else says is best, for me. It is what I believe is best. There is no judgment with these agreements. It is actually a self-evaluation, a review of how it’s going. Where should I direct my powerful focus in the world, right now? Doing your best means that you are fully embracing life. You are focused in the now and are using your gifts, talents and abilities for the highest good possible.
My best is not your best, and your best is not someone else’s best. Let’s agree together to always do our personal best!
Whatever you are capable of doing, do with all your might because there’s no work, thought, knowledge, or wisdom in the grave, which is where you are headed.
Eccl 9:10“You are what you believe in. You become that which you believe you can become”
–Bhagavad Gita“When we’re growing up there are all sorts of people telling us what to do when really what we need is space to work out who to be.”
Elliot Page
The third agreement reminds us that almost everything we tell ourselves is an assumption. Humans have a great imagination, and there are so many ideas and stories that we can imagine. We listen to the voices in our head, and we start imagining what other people are doing, what they’re thinking, what they’re saying about us, and we make up stories. We fabricate a whole storyline that may or may not be true, but we buy it, telling ourselves that it is true.
One assumption leads to another; we jump to conclusions and take our story very personally. Then, we blame other people and usually start gossiping to try to justify our assumptions. Of course, by gossiping, a distorted message becomes even more distorted. We will be better off if we take this agreement to heart and practice it.
Enjoy this fun closing music by Blake Sims!
You can’t calm the storms of life when you let them bother you. What you can do is to remain calm and let the storm pass, as it will. Let calmness become a power in your life. Not overreacting or taking things too personally keeps your mind clear and your heart at peace, ultimately putting you in the driver’s seat.
Whenever someone says something negative about you, it’s really about them. It comes from their seat of judgment and belongs to them. Nothing is personal until you make it so.
“Blessed [morally courageous and spiritually alive with life-joy in God’s goodness] are you when people insult you and persecute you and falsely say all kinds of bad things against you because of [your association with] Me/Truth. Be glad and exceedingly joyful, for your reward in spirit is great.
Matthew 5:11-12“Give your stress wings and let it fly away.”
Terri Guillemets“One of the greatest regrets in life is being what others would want you to be, rather than being yourself.”
Shannon Alder“Gentleness is strength under control. It is the ability to stay calm, no matter what happens.”
Elizabeth George
Being impeccable with your words takes practice and time—it’s an ongoing journey! By practicing awareness, you can focus on thoughts and words that represent how you want to feel and communicate with others.
This lesson is based on the Toltec beliefs as shared by Don Miguel Ruiz. Toltec philosophy provides four agreements that help people make positive choices in what they think, say, and do.
In the book The Four Agreements, Don Miguel Ruiz shares his belief that many children are trained with a system of punishment and reward, which he calls domestication. We are told, “You’re a good boy” or “You’re a good girl” when we do what Mom and Dad want us to do. When we don’t, we are a “bad girl” or a “bad boy.”
People develop the desire to avoid punishment and crave external rewards. So, we continue independently to work toward what we perceive is correct, based on the views of our parents, religion, culture, friends, the media, teachers, society, and more.
These four agreements we make with ourselves can take us beyond our programming into greater degrees of freedom and success.
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it and indulge in it will eat its fruit and bear the consequences of their words.”
Proverbs 18:21“Handle them carefully, for words have more power than atom bombs.”
Pearl Strachan Hurd
A growth edge is an area of life you are working on improving. We all have them. Most of us don’t like to look at them. We don’t enjoy being uncomfortable and being out of our comfort zone. We are afraid of losing control. Could discomfort be a clue that we are moving in the right direction rather than a reason to revert to old behaviors? Whatever areas you have the most trouble with are the issues with the most benefit. Choosing only to do the easy stuff keeps you from pushing your boundaries and limitations.
Life will remain unchanged without a change in perspective, and we’ll be stuck in the same cycle of challenges. We need to see these challenges as opportunities for growth. We need to learn to tackle the hard things, as they are the stepping stones to our personal growth. These challenges are not obstacles but containers of potential. We need to dig deep to unearth the gold within!
“The whole Universe is on your side. Life is forever biased on the side of healing, on the side of overcoming, on the side of success. When you center yourself in the Universal flow, you synchronize with this divine bias for good.”
Eric Butterworth“All the power of the universe is with you. Feel it, know it, and then act as though it were true.”
Ernest Holmes“Don’t be lazy; watch the ants and discover great wisdom.”
Job 12:7
Respect is one of the most vital and unifying aspects of human relationships. When we value each other, we can all rise and do well. Wise people nurture understanding, consideration, kindness, and honor. This is a sign of positive citizenship.
Respect is not merely an obligation but also a way to affirm one another’s dignity and worth despite differences in opinion, status, or background. We are all a part of the human family. Without respect for each other, we will lose touch with our humanity.
As American citizens, we can be a beacon to the rest of the world by showing forth our highest ideals. Phillip James Bailey once said, “Respect is what we owe; love is what we give.”
“Whenever you feel like criticizing anyone…just remember that everyone in this world hasn’t had the advantages you’ve had.”
F Scott Fitzgerald“First of all, then, I urge that prayers for yourself and others and thanksgivings be made on behalf of all people, kings, and those in positions of authority.” This practice can help us foster a sense of connection and compassion, leading to a peaceful and quiet life in harmony with divinity.
1st Timothy 2:1-3 Amplified Bible
Revs Karen Patrick and James King discuss how the Ho’oponopono prayer facilitates total forgiveness. These four lines can guide you through a process of introspection, forgiveness, and release. As part of this process, you use the mantra, “I’m sorry, Please forgive me, Thank you, I love you,” to acknowledge and take responsibility for any negative thoughts, actions, or emotions that may have contributed to conflict or disharmony. You are empowered to be an active participant in the healing process.Forgiveness is a choice; we can all heal by giving and receiving it. Nothing can change until we do.
“It’s one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself to forgive. Forgive everybody.”
Maya Angelou
Uplifting, enlightening and hilarious with a voice that can burn the house down, Amy is singer, songwriter and storyteller like none other. She plays the piano with her own swingy rhythmic bounce, injecting shades of jazz, rock, hip hop, and poetry, all with a theatrical flair. Deeply soulful, she sings of self-love, open-mindedness, and the holiness of everything.
“Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”
ConfuciusEnvision a life brimming with inspiration, where we can fully unleash our creativity. It’s a life of joy where we can romp in the boundless fields of our imagination. Even in the face of life’s challenges, we can soften the hard edges and pave a more enjoyable path. We can learn to find joy in the simplest of things, even in these uncertain times.
O! for a muse of fire, that would ascend the brightest heaven of invention.”
William ShakespeareHave you ever pondered on the source of your own creativity? The answer, my friend, lies in having a muse! But what exactly is a muse? According to the dictionary, it’s ‘a person or personified force who is the source of inspiration for a creative artist.’ You might think, ‘I’m not an artist, so this doesn’t apply to me.’ But the truth is, your life is a work of art, and you are your play’s director, producer, and main character.
“Observe people who are good at their work— skilled workers are always in demand and admired; they don’t take a backseat to anyone.”
Proverbs 22:29Step into a realm of effortless creativity. We’ll be sharing some valuable insights on how to discover your muse and appreciate the entertainment value of your everyday experiences. Your life is already a living, breathing piece of artwork. So, why not revel in it? This lesson is for anyone who wants to play for a living!
Have you ever wondered what happens when we let go of control and allow life to unfold naturally? When we stop resisting, we no longer create an opponent or any of the blocks to the flow state. We can be our true and natural selves. Surrender leads to detachment, and then detachment leads to a flow state. That’s when synchronicity manifests abundantly.
“When we give ourselves the chance to let go of all our tension, the body’s natural capacity to heal itself can begin to work.”
– Tich Nhat Hanh “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.”
-Lao Tzu
Rev Karen Patrick explores how forgiveness heals and provides us with a simple four-step method to practice so that we can experience the peace that forgiveness brings.
“To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
Lewis B. Smedes
Why should you want what you’ve got? What if you don’t like it? Am I stuck with it?
Here is a key: it’s all a unique gift exclusively for you. Life, in its essence, is a gift. It has bestowed upon you your distinct talents and abilities. Your mind, body, oxygen, and even sunshine are all gifts. Did you create any of these marvelous things? No. The most vital aspects of your life are all given to you free of charge. Your duty is to cherish them and enjoy what you have freely received. By appreciating what you have, you pave the way for more of what you desire!
Ram Dass said, “Be here now,” and that is the only requirement for a happy and fulfilling life. Whatever comes tomorrow is linked to what is going on now. The Creator has given us everything we need to thrive and prosper. So, let’s get on the gratitude train and see where it can take us!
And I said to my body, softly, “I want to be your friend. It took a long breath and replied, “I’ve been waiting my whole life for this.”
Nayyirah Waheed “Be here now.”
Ram Daas “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough to keep you busy.
Matthew 6:34
It’s Mother’s Day, and we want to celebrate all Mothers in our Unity community. Around 1870, Julia Ward Howe called for a “Mother’s Day for Peace” dedicated to celebrating peace and eradicating war. As expressed in her “Mother’s Day Proclamation” from 1870, Howe felt that mothers should gather to prevent the cruelty of war and the waste of life since mothers of mankind alone bear and know the cost. This was one of the little-known ideas that sparked the beginning of Mother’s Day.
In this lesson, we share about the importance of the Mother energy that enfolds us all. No one person can hold all of the qualities that are needed to care for the whole of creation. It is a collective experience, a shared responsibility that we all are all a part of. The nurturing must come from each one of us.
“The Jerusalem that is above brings freedom and is the Mother of us all”
Galatians 4:26 “Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all”
Proverbs 31:28-31
We live in an interconnected universe. Physicists have shown that the observer and the observed interact and that energy and matter interchange.
Albert Einstein believed that we live in a friendly, supportive, interactive universe. Everything changes, but nothing ever really dies.
Jesus presented a very clear image of this loving and responsive universe for us to consider.
There was a time when we thought only certain things or specific people were holy. Our Unity understanding reveals that everything is holy now.
“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye…. we shall be changed.”
1 Cor 15:52You are God’s child; God’s love surrounds you and cares for you; God’s Life is yours. In the light of the Great Reality I see you perfect, free from the delusion of sin, sickness, death. I see you whole with God’s Wholeness; I rejoice to speak this word for you; it is the Father that speaks in me. The word of God is powerful to bless.”
Nona Brooks
Intercession Or Interference?
Interference is when we get in the way of another person’s growth process. Especially when not invited. To butt in and try to control others or their circumstances is manipulation. Have you ever tried to help someone and ended up making it worse?
How do we help others to make positive changes in their lives? Are we interfering with their free will if we do?
Spiritual Intercession is acting on behalf of another person from an inner level.
We are lightworkers here to make a difference and have a positive effect. The very definition of a light worker is to bring the light. Most people want to change but may be unable to because they’re stuck in distraction and self-sabotage.
When you understand your purpose, you become an agent of change and transformation; it affects the whole world.
“Non nobis solum nati sumus. (Not for ourselves alone are we born.)” ~Marcus Tullius Cicero
“The purpose of life is not just to be happy. It is to be useful, honorable, compassionate, and have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.”
Ralph Waldo EmersonJesus breathed on his disciples and said Receive the Holy Spirit, The Holy Spirit represents your divine potential.
AFFIRM:
Be infusedwith the energy of joy and excitement
I affirm a greater enlightened awareness.
I affirm your divine value and worth.
I envision you living your true calling. (seeing them smiling)
I affirm the higher power within you is rising and filling you with the energy of purpose and intention.
I see the release of any blocks to your many gifts and talents.
Through affirmative prayer:
We open the metaphorical blind eyes, deaf ears, and unlock the doors that hold them in limitation.Another way to do the prayer is for yourself and include others in the prayer. We are all one. As you pray for yourself you are also praying for others. You cannot reach inside a person and pull out their negative core beliefs. These blocks can only be removed at the inward spiritual level. Attitudes, feelings, hurts & wounds, rejections, fears, self-loathing, hatred are all energies that can be positively affected by interceding through affirmative prayer.
Remember, we cannot make decisions for others! We can positively influence them. Are you a spiritual influencer?
It is good to remember that the Earth is our home, and we were meant to be caretakers of this awesome planet together.
Rev. Karen Patrick shares her experience of Mother Goose’s teachings through the lens of the creation story found in Genesis 1:26.
In Egypt, an ancient visual concept of the cosmos was envisioned as these enormous wings attached to the disk of the Sun. The wings represent Love and truth, the balance of the opposites. Charles Fillmore was attracted to the symbol of the Egyptian wings, and he adapted them to the Unity movement.
This life will never be without occasional storms. You want to build a shelter within yourself so that when a storm comes, you are safe. All birds know how to find shelter during a rainstorm. But the eagle avoids the storm by flying into a high place above the clouds.
Eagles can soar up to around 10,000 feet high. Using their wings to reach the proper height may take effort and power, but afterward, they can soar with little effort. You and I have these wings within ourselves, and we want to learn how to use them.
“No bird soars too high if he soars with his own wings.”
William Blake“But the woman was given the two wings of the great eagle so that she might fly from the serpent (ego mind) into the wilderness (open spaces), to the place where she is to be nourished (spiritually fed).”
Revelation 12:14
Have you heard, the end is near? For thousands of years prophets and seers have been predicting the end of the world. In truth there have been many endings and lots of new beginnings too. The concept of the world is made up of a system of beliefs, thoughts and attitudes and it is constantly changing. The prophets of old have also predicted a time on earth that all of nature and all of humanity will come together in peace and harmony.
Each time there is change in the world, there is a bit of chaos. We are transitioning between two ages right now in the world. We are moving to an age of grace and beauty.
“And they will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not lift up the sword against nation, And never again will they learn war.”
Isaiah 2:4“The peace that we desire and need in the world is that which ‘passes understanding.’ It cannot come by treaties or agreements, or by wars and boundary lines. Peace can only come when people become receptive to it and become peacemakers in the process of expressing it from within.”
Eric Butterworth
Saying to them, “Go to the village ahead of you, and at once you will find a donkey tied there, with her colt by her. Untie them and bring them to me.”
Let’s explore the rich history and powerful symbolism of Palm Sunday’s narrative in the Christian scriptures. Jesus’ ride on a donkey reveals valuable lessons for the spiritual journey, and the wisdom of the donkey is the character needed to enter the Kingdom—the field of limitless potential and endless possibility.
Don’t miss this exciting lesson by Rev Karen Patrick!
We are powerful co-creators when we use our intent and focus. To be able to concentrate on one thing at a time is a valuable skill.
We learn this process over time and there is no need to rush it or to become anxious about meditation. It is a gradual release from obsessive worry and fear.
It is letting go of the negative persona and forgiving (untying of the mind) rather than holding onto judgment, anger and fear.
Some people try to deal with meditation the way they dealt with things in the past. It is not a task to be conquered but a mindfulness lifestyle to be embraced and enjoyed.
“O Lord, you have searched me [thoroughly] and have known me. You know when I sit down and when I rise up [my entire life, everything I do]; You understand my thoughts from afar. You understand my path and know me even in my sleep. And You are intimately acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue [still unspoken], Behold, Lord, You know it all. You have encircled me from the back and the front.And [You have] placed Your divine hand upon me.Such [infinite] knowledge is amazing to me; and it feelsIt is too high, as if I cannot reach it.”
Psalm 139“But when you pray, go into your most private room, close the door and pray to your Father who is in secret, and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”
Matthew 6:6-7
Meditation is how we become more aware of the Sacred (God) Energy we are. By sensing the Sacred Energy, you are pulled within. Meditation is not a blanking out of the mind – it is paying attention to whatever arises and allowing it to move on without attaching to it. The word Prayer in Aramaic means “To set your mind like a trap and wait patiently for the thoughts of God to arise.”
A quiet mind is a useful mind. If your mind is full of the pictures, patterns, and predicaments of the past, you will be limited to an old paradigm. We must clear the pictures, release the programs, and change our situation.
“A good picture is equivalent to a good deed”
Vincent Van Gogh“You shall not make for yourself a carved image (pictures) or any likeness of anything in heaven above, in the earth beneath, or the water under the earth. You shall not bow down to them or serve them”
Exodus 20:4-5
In the beginning, Divinity breathed into humanity the sacred breath. Without this breath, we cannot live on the earth. It is one of the four elements that make up this world of form, fire, water, earth and air. The air you breathe is sacred and can be used deliberately.
Most people never really think about their breath until they have a problem with it, and then it becomes the main focus of their attention. What does it feel like to breathe consciously? Does your breath control how you feel? How does breath work enhance our meditation?
“When you own your breath, nobody can steal your peace.”
Unknown“Take a deep breath and let it all go.”
Oprah“Breathing in, I calm my body. Breathing out, I smile. Dwelling in the present moment, I know this is a wonderful moment.”
Thich Nhat Hanh
Last week we began discussing the power of strength and how to clear painful energy. We continue this important topic in order to ground it within ourselves. Being present with your emotional pain is the fastest and most direct way to deal with it. We want to unify and integrate all negative energy so that it can be used as fuel to accomplish good for our lives.
Instead of being controlled by emotional pain we can acknowledge it and discern the message it has for us. Yes, it takes time and patience to practice being with it, but what else is more important than healing your pain?
“When unity was attained of old, heaven became clear by attaining unity,earth became steady by attaining unity, spirit was quickened by attaining unity,valley streams quickened by attaining unity, all beings were born filled by attaining unity;and by attaining unity lords acted rightly for the sake of the world.”
Tao Te Ching“Those who know me as their own divine Self break through the belief that they are the body and are not reborn as separate creatures. Such a one, Arjuna, is united with me. Delivered from selfish attachment, fear, and anger, filled with me, surrendering themselves to me, purified in the fire of my being, many have reached the state of unity with me.” (4:9-10)
Bhagavad Gita
During the annual season of Lent, many people have observed prayer, and releasing of their bad habits since the first century. The idea is to give up something or release it to the Divine and do it consistently for forty days. These 40 days (plus six Sundays) begin on Ash Wednesday and end on Easter Sunday. The season of Lent begins on February 14th and ends on March 28th, in 2024.
Is there something you would like to see change in your life? Are you in denial that change is even possible? There is a reason why change feels so hard. It’s all inside of you. Are you ready to deal with thoughts and feelings that have become like an invisible pain barrier that keeps you from advancing forward?
Once you understand what holds the pain wall in place you can begin to dismantle it! It’s time to let go of the pain and stand in your true nature of strength and empowerment.
“The secret of change is to focus all of your energy, not onfighting the old, but on building the new.”
Socrates“Those established in Self-realization control their senses instead of letting their senses control them.”
Bhagavad Gita“Be willing to be uncomfortable. Be comfortable being uncomfortable.”
Peter McWilliams
There are many things that we want and need in our lives. The first and most important of all is to find and engage in the practice of love. When you see people floundering, they have not yet committed to a life of love. When you find love, you discover purpose and connection. It is a complete package. Love works from a higher order and is naturally harmonious. Without love, we are not in harmony and alignment with the world.
Each of us has gifts that we have been given to develop and use. In this lesson, we discuss how to flow with the power of order and engage our spiritual gifts. Once you understand that life is love and service, then your gift will activate so you can fulfill your highest purpose.
“Every living thing and every situation is in divine order! Believe and have faith that everything is where it is at and should be! Everything happens for our highest good!”
Angie Karan“Let the world unfold without always attempting to figure it all out. Let relationships just be, since everything is going to stretch out in Divine order. Don’t try so hard to make something work – simply allow. Don’t always toil at trying to understand your mate, your children, your parents, your boss, or anyone else because the Tao is working at all times.”
Wayne Dyer
There is an organizing power in the Universe that knows how to put it all together so that life works for our benefit. We have a choice everyday to work with what is happening or to resist it. Your choice. Each one of us possesses this power of order inside our being. We can access it whenever we need it. If life is out of balance then it can get hard. It may be a sign that we are ignoring
We quickly re-capped last weeks discussion on the power of will and then opened it up for your questions! “Nothing shall be impossible to you.” Jesus “Will opens the door to success, both brilliant and happy.” Louis Pasteur
Why do some resolutions fail? Why does change feel so hard sometimes? How can I strengthen my force of will? We all have areas in our lives that we want to change. It is a common need to desire a happy and fulfilling life. We all have specific needs as human beings that are natural to us all. The Creator has already provided everything in abundance, the things needed for a good life. Our task is to appropriate them! “Having
The Trickster has many names and is talked about in every culture in some way, shape, or form. You may wonder why we are talking about this. The truth is, we all have a bit of the Trickster operating inside of our minds. It is an aspect of the mind that keeps you tripping over your feet and then laughs at you for falling. What is the trickster? The shadow side stays hidden and then shows up in our lives
The use of Will involves positively affirming what you want and desire. It is the idea of a choice made from an internal conviction. The use of Will is necessary in all aspects of our lives. In a wedding ceremony, we promise to love and cherish each other. This is all based upon the act of will. What gives Will its power? What is behind the words, I will? Understanding how this inner force works reveals why we do what we do. Where does the power of Will
CEO and President of Unity Worldwide Ministries, Rev Shad Groverland, shares his story.
It may be time to review, reinvent, reformulate, and rename. Things tend to become what you name them and how you think about them. When you redefine something in the positive, you take away the sting of the emotional pain. Many people carry around burdens from the past that make enjoying life difficult. If we change the story, we change the narrative. Even though we cannot change what happened to us, we can see it through new eyes. We want to be
Sometimes in life, we get thrown a curveball or two, and we might wonder what celestial rule we might have broken. These occasions test our will and try our minds. How can we deal with unexpected challenges that come up? Is it because we are bad people? No, the universe is guiding you every step, and something good is on the way. Over the years, you may have gotten some insight about yourself. You are more resilient than you know, and some answers may appear in ways you were not expecting. Whatever
Understanding is the ability to know, perceive, and apprehend. Thomas is the disciple that symbolizes understanding. He represents the ability to see beyond appearances into reality. To have understanding means to get at the core of something. The corresponding color is gold, and the location of this power is the front of the brain. We need to develop this ability of understanding and awakening to bring peace and harmony to the world. “Call me, and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable
Each year we like to discuss the ideas of spirituality as it pertains to our country. We are a nation of laws that govern us to keep us safe. The early founders believed in the idea of natural law and that the spirit of nature could teach us how to live in peace with each other. This was the basis of the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. In this discussion, we explore the concept of independence and discover how freedom works. What does it mean
When we can stay centered in a state of grace and receptivity, life will bring us everything we need; and yet there are times when we are called upon to ask for what we want. We will grow and become more confident by demonstrating our belief and positive trust. In this lesson, we share some steps to the manifestation process and the potential blocks that can keep us from our good. As our connection point, we use a purple-colored box
In this Sunday lesson, we honor our Fathers and all that they mean to us. Dads come in all shapes and sizes with differing personalities, gifts, and talents. Our Fathers were shaped by culture, genetics, and expectations. Being a Father is not always easy. There is no handbook, just lots of opinions about who we think they should be. This Sunday we want to say thank you, Dad. We continue our discussion about imagination and how we can use it in all our relationships. What kind of relationship can
Using imagination, we can contemplate and consider what it would be like to feel totally loved. Imagine yourself taking a shower or bath in love’s awareness. These images connect us with feelings that lead to the reality and experience of love. To really be loved you have to be able to imagine the possibility of it, which is what opens the door to it. We often imagine ourselves without love and create feelings of loneliness and separation that generate that same experience in the
“Imagination is the eye of the soul.”
Joseph JoubertAccording to the dictionary, imagination is ‘The faculty or action of forming new ideas, or images, or concepts of external objects not present to the senses.’ and ‘The ability of the mind to be creative or resourceful.’
Every romance novel was created through the imagination of the mind of the author. Writers are always creating something that was not there before, something that cannot be touched and seen, and so it makes sense that imagination is important in this process. It allows you to feel empathy and compassion. Romance is created through the use of the imagination. It is a feeling of excitement and mystery associated with love. How can we know the Divine? How can we connect at a deeper level?
“I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”
Albert Einstein“If you fall in love with the imagination, you understand that it is a free spirit. It will go anywhere, and it can do anything.”
Alice Walker
What is the law of mind action? It is an idea that is also called the law of attraction. The concept behind this principle is that what we resonate with, we create for our lives. How we think and feel about life and our world affects how we experience it. This is a universal law that works exactly the same for every person. It reflects back to us what we keep putting out on a regular basis.
This law is as reliable as the law of gravity.
Law-of-Mind-Action-NotesDownload
“Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.”
~ Proverbs 31:31
All that I am, or ever hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.
~Abraham Lincoln
There is no role in life that is more essential than that of motherhood.
~Elder M. Russell Ballard
Mother’s love is peace and It need not be acquired, it need not be deserved.
~ Erich Fromm
If love is as sweet as a flower, then my mother is that sweet flower of love.
~Stevie Wonder
Charles Fillmore identified strength as one of the innate powers that human beings possess and Samson was a good example of this inner power in the physical sense. The story of Samson is similar to the personal journey of every one of us. In this lesson, we mine the nuggets of truth of this well known story and discover why long hair is spiritually very wise!
Do you have times when being thankful is the last thing on your mind? However the simple act of being grateful is an antidote to stress and resentment in our lives. Together we will explore simple methods to go beyond a gratitude list toward cultivating a consciousness of gratitude and recognize the ease and flow in our life. Rev. Karen Patrick leads us on this gratitude practice.
There is something truly calming and peaceful about being in nature and appreciating its beauty. It is hard to look at a blooming new flower, growing fruit on a tree, or birds in their nest and not see the divinity that is there. It is so comforting to recall all of the ways that the creation provides for us.
From the smallest detail of an oak leaf, to the countless stars in the sky, all of nature was created to reveal a higher love and care for us all. Nature declares the Glory and wisdom of our Creator. When we align with nature we align with our true selves and we see that we are born of nature, we are perfectly whole and completely natural.
“What is the good of your stars and trees, your sunrise and the wind, if they do not enter into our daily lives?”
E.M. ForsterThe heavens are telling the glory of God; they are a marvelous display of divine craftsmanship. Day and night they keep on telling the story of divinity. Without a sound or word, silent in the skies, their message reaches out to all the world.
Psalm 19
We opened it up for your questions and here is what was asked:
How do we not focus on that “one negative thing” within a lot of positive things? Are there any techniques that you use or can suggest on how to stop trying to fix people? Of all the speakers, authors, workshops…who inspires you?Discuss fear.There has been a lot of focus on identifying narcissists and how to extricate them from your life in the last 5 years. One of the predominant thoughts is that narcissists never change. How do we see the Devine being in “narcissists”?How can we better handle our fear about our country? Using UCG’s Mission Statement as your own personal mission statement:“I am a haven of peace where everyone is loved and empowered through my practice of positive and practical spirituality in order that I may help heal the illusion of separation.”
The word resurrection means to stand up right again. The seed of resurrection has been planted in every one of us. Just like the spring flowers rise again after a long winters nap, so also does humanity awaken from it’s slumbering.
The life of Jesus is reflective of the journey of humankind. Even in death, Jesus taught us that life goes on and never ends.
Charles Fillmore taught us that the Bible is the story of humanity’s journey.
The Hebrew Bible is the story of the up and down journey of human beings, rising and falling, loving and forgiving, remembering and forgetting.
This epic journey has been long over thousands of years, maybe longer. What is the end game? What is the point? What is the plan? This Palm Sunday lesson explores these questions.
Do you ever find yourself asking, “I’m doing everything I know to do so why am I experiencing this”?
Jesus rode triumphantly into the city of Jerusalem and there was a great celebration but shortly thereafter, he would go through an experience that would push him to do the hardest work of his life – he would have to deal with making a choice about whether or not to face his own destiny. It was his dark night of the soul, or Gethsemane Experience, and there is much in his experience that can help us get through ours!
“Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.”
– Joshua J. Marine
Did you know that everyone has been endowed with gifts, talents, and abilities? We all have something to contribute to the world around us. We have been given a “charisma”, which is the Greek word for a special grace. It is your and my responsibility to uncover and align with that special grace within.
We believe the world would be a more harmonious place if everyone was sharing their true individual gifts. In this enlightening discussion we learn how to express our charisma!
Getting To The Root of The Bigger Issues
This is part two of our series about transformation. We take a look at the bigger issues we face and how we can deal with them. Giving away your personal power robs you of mental and emotional strength. Maintaining control in your life requires that you make a conscious choice to take back your power. Before you can create positive change, you need to recognize the ways in which you give your power away.
Are you ready to deal with your Goliath?
Focus On Faith And Release The Fear!
The season of Lent lasts for 40 days and ends on Easter Sunday. March is always a powerful month of transformation and change.
There is extra energy available to let what has been hidden within be revealed outwardly. The energy that is created inspires us to live our best life. The trees begin to bud and the flowers start to bloom. It is a sign to all of us that rebirth is possible.
Are you holding on to anything that would keep you stuck? Are you willing to practice a new habit for the next month and let your life transform? Over the years we have watched the lives of many people learn, grow and evolve. It is exciting to watch!
This is your opportunity and we want to share some tools with you to make sure you succeed.
“I have learned over the years that when one’s mind is made up, this diminishes fear; knowing what must be done does away with fear.”
Rosa Parks“I learned this, at least, by my experiment: that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.”
Henry David Thoreau
This weeks video has a lot of skipping in it due to a stream issue- we recommend listening to the audio version which does not skip!
What is your value and what are you worth? Do you believe that you are worthy? Do you believe that you are lacking in some way? Many people today do not know their natural innate value and therefore everything they do and say is influenced by a poor self image. In this lesson we will prove to you, beyond a shadow of a doubt, your true worth! That is a bold statement but it is absolutely true!
This is the last lesson in our series on making room for love.
What did Jesus mean by turning the other cheek? Should we allow others to walk on us? How do we deal with the troublemakers around us? In this discussion we will go deeper into what is meant by non-resistance and acceptance.
We will discuss a better way to facilitate hate, fear and confusion. Higher love will show us what to do and how to present true compassion and courage.
This is part 2 in our series Making Room For Love.
When we love others and feel loved in return, we are uplifted, inspired and happy. But when the love we desire is denied, when we feel betrayed, rejected, disappointed or even bored, our mood may plummet toward sadness and depression or escalate into anger and rage.
In this lesson we begin a discussion about healthy and loving relationships and how we can increase our awareness of one another in a positive way. Let’s make room for love!
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent. (Omnipotent)The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good. (Omnipresent)The Formative Power of Thought. (Mind Action or Manifestation)The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence). (Prayer)The Law of Demonstration. (Action) For the month of January, we look at the 5 basic Unity principles; OOMPA is a fun way to remember them!
Action and service are the ways that we demonstrate our beliefs. This is our connection to community and the sacredness of all of life! Through our thoughts, words and actions, we live in the Truth that we know. Knowledge of these spiritual principles alone is not enough. We must walk them out in our every day lives. Our discussion this Sunday will open you up to the opportunity to uncover your gifts and talents and how you might be of service to others!
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent. (Omnipotent)The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good. (Omnipresent)The Formative Power of Thought. (Mind Action or Manifestation)The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence). (Prayer)The Law of Demonstration. (Action) For the month of January, we look at the 5 basic Unity principles; OOMPA is a fun way to remember them!
Prayer is creative thinking that heightens the awareness of the God power within me. Affirmative prayer statements bring us wisdom, healing, and prosperity. Prayer is not just a list of wants and wishes, it is the connection of the individual mind with the higher mind so that we pray from faith and trust.
Charles Fillmore said it like this:
“An affirmation is a positive and orderly statement of Truth…By affirmation we claim and appropriate that which is ours”
WORD VITAMINS are Nutrient filled words. Words contain energy and life force!”
Want more love in your life? “Love is permeating my mind and heart. I am soaking in my awareness of beauty and love.”
NEED A MIRACLE?“Steady streams of grace are now bringing miracles into my life.”
READY FOR MORE FRIENDS? “I am now ready for a friend that I can give and receive kindness, love and respect.”
NEED PEACE OF MIND? “My mind is a habitation of peaceful thoughts and easy feelings.”
FAMILY?“I envision my family blessed with peace and grace. I surround them in love, light and divine awareness.”
bE MORE PRESENT?“I live in the now moment and I am always present.”
FOR OTHERS?I envision a steady stream of awakening energy filling the cup of this thirsty soul.
LESS JUDGEMENT?“I treat everyone with respect and kindness. My words are warm and friendly.”
FEASTING?“Life is wonderful and I enjoy eating delicious food for my body & soul. I always eat what I need and it is always enough.”
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY
The Dynamic Laws of Prayer by Catherine PonderHow To Pray Without Talking To God by Linda Martella-WhitsettThe Universe Is Calling by Eric ButterworthHandbook of Positive Prayer by Patricia Hasbrouck
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent.The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good.The Formative Power of Thought.The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence).The Law of Demonstration. For the month of January, we look at the 5 basic Unity principles; OOMPA is a fun way to remember them!
This week, the 3rd principle of Unity reveals the power of our thoughts. Human beings create their lives through the activity of their thinking. Everything in the physical world has its beginning in the realm of thoughts. Life is an expression of the idea, “what we think about we bring about.” What you believe at the deepest level will show up in your life in some way, shape or form. The energy we resonate sends a signal into the universe and connects us with what we need and desire.
Thoughts are the blueprint for reality in the physical worldPositive or negative thoughts produce after their kind.Jesus said, “Ask and you shall receive.” “Principlesdo not change; humanity makes his or her own heaven or hell, just as they did two thousand or two million years ago”
Charles Fillmore“You are one thing only. You are a Divine Being. An all-powerful Creator. You are a Deity in jeans and a t-shirt, and within you dwells the infinite wisdom of the ages and the sacred creative force of All that is, will be and ever was.”
Anthon St. Maarten“If you could kick the person in the pants responsible for most of your trouble, you wouldn’t sit for a month.”
Theodore Rooselvelt“Once you make a decision, the universe conspires to make it happen”
Ralph Waldo EmersonRESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY
The Five Principles by Ellen Debenport
The Biology of Belief by Bruce Lipton
Becoming Supernatural by Joe Dispenza, MD
The Power of Intention by Wayne Dyer, PhD
Breaking The Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create A New One by Joe Dispenza, MD
Atom-Smashing Power of Mind by Charles Fillmore
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent.The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good.The Formative Power of Thought.The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence).The Law of Demonstration. For the month of January, we look at the 5 basic Unity principles; OOMPA is a fun way to remember them!
This week, the 2nd principle of Unity reveals the truth of our divine identity. In knowing this we can rise above the pettiness and confusion of isolationism and separation. We celebrate the rich diversity of all people!
RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY
The Five Principles by Ellen Debenport
There is only One Presence and One Power. God the Good, Omnipotent.The Divinity of humankind. Our true nature is good.The Formative Power of Thought.The Practice of the Presence through Prayer and Meditation. (affirmations, prayer and the silence).The Law of Demonstration. For the month of January, we look at the 5 basic Unity principles and a bit of the history of our Unity movement. OOMPA is a fun way to remember them!
This week, we highlight the history of Unity and talk about Principle #1, the first O, Oneness.
“Why are we so obsessed with Jesus the man and neglect the teachings of Christ that teach about the God within?”
Ralph Waldo EmersonRESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY
The Story of Unity by James Dillet Freeman
The Five Principles by Ellen Debenport
Joy to the world! The birth of Christ Consciousness is once again happening in our midst.
A woman will experience 9 months of changes in the emotional and physical body, until finally she is ready to give birth. Have you noticed how many changes take place in, and on, your spiritual journey to higher consciousness?!
We have walked through the progression of hope, faith, peace, and love. It is time to embrace the fullness of joy. We discuss divine timing, release and giving birth to a new experience.
“The root of all difficulties is a lack of the sense of the Presence of God.”
Emmet FoxResources For Further Study
The Trip To Bethlehem by Hypatia Hasbrouck
Divine love is the mystery of life and is beyond explanation and transcends the physical. This love is so vast that we may spend a lifetime trying to understand it. Everyone is seeking it in some way, shape or form.
You exist to channel love. That is your primary purpose. Even if you try to hide from it – love will find you! No mater how you mess up in life – love is always there in the background waiting to reveal itself to you.
Peace can start with just one person and then it can spread around. It always comes back to the sender bringing blessings with it. That is why people that choose to follow peace are blessed to receive it back in many different ways.
Peace is an aspect of our innate nature of goodness. You are a good person and you have the potential for greatness. Join us this Sunday as we discuss the value of peace in a chaotic world.
Resources For Further Study
The Trip To Bethlehem by Hypatia Hasbrouck
Cofounder Charles Fillmore spoke of Unity and Advent in a January 24, 1923, radio broadcast called “Christ Mind, the Second Coming of Christ.” He shared his thoughts on his understanding that “Christ is an idea in divine mind,” and highlighted the universality of the Christ, the divine essence that dwells in every human being. Fillmore said people with preconceived, human notions of the “second coming” are bound to be disillusioned. “They are simply looking in the wrong place to discover
Communion: The sharing or exchanging of intimate thoughts and feelings, this exchange can be on a mental, emotional or spiritual level. Communion is a moment of grace and inner reflection. The ancient ritual of drinking wine and eating bread can be a beautiful way to remember our divine connection. By feeding on the words of life and drinking in the teachings of truth we discover more freedom and understanding. We can also gain clarity about our true identity. Our blood
No matter what name you might give to a rose, its essence would not change just because you called it something different. Humans, in an effort to describe the deeper essence of all life, created the word “God” to represent the Creator and sustainer of all living beings. In this lesson, we share a deeper truth about all of the names of divinity and how we can use them to have greater experiences in life. In the Bible alone there
Why Halloween? Each year we celebrate a holiday that many people don’t even really understand! In this lesson, Rev James discusses a few spooky and relevant facts to get at the “meaning” of Halloween. Is it spiritual? Why all the candy? Why do people dress in costumes and wear masks that hide their true identity? Is there something nefarious going on? We explore the dark and the light side of Halloween together! Special Musical Guest Blake Sims
This is the last lesson in the series on prosperity, for now. We have shared a variety of tools to help you strengthen your positive beliefs as well as changing the faulty beliefs. In this lesson, we focus on our true spiritual identity and the power we posses to create and make positive change. “You are not a human being, you are a God being, and all of the powers of the universe are within you.” John Randolph Price “Life
Did you know that you can have emotional addictions?? (Yep, it’s true!) Once we make a commitment to shift our beliefs we can move away from those things that are no longer serving us! In this lesson, we focus on understanding the emotional spectrum and forming effective affirmations to aid us in consciously creating the life we wish to live. “It’s important to know that the creative process is at work in you all the time…” Eric Butterworth, Spiritual Economics “We
“By your thinking, you are either adding to your good or you are taking away from it.” – Eric Butterworth Do you have hidden subconscious beliefs that keep you from experiencing your best life? Most of us grew up with faulty thinking about wealth, health, and a variety of beliefs that lead to frustration and instability. In this talk, we focus on the “gremlins” that haunt us and keep us stuck in unhealthy thinking. We will help you identify these faulty beliefs and exchange them for
“The word ‘prosper’ means to flourish, succeed, thrive, to experience favorable results. You are prosperous to the degree that you are experiencing peace, health and plenty in your world.” ~Catherine Ponder In a 4 week series, James & Leah discuss the “Nuts and Bolts of Abundant, Prosperous Living.” This series touches on aspects of: Divine identity, forgiveness, beliefs, vibration, gratitude and giving. You will gain the knowledge, the tools and the know-how to master your mind, which means mastering your vibration, to empower yourself
Collective Grief Many of us have found ourselves feeling out of sorts lately and we find ourselves asking “what is going on?” and perhaps we are hearing that same question being asked of us by others! We have, collectively, gone through an event that has left grief in its wake, even though we may not recognize it as such. Life doesn’t look the same and we are waiting for things to return to “normal”. Rev Leah shares some ways in
Rev David Torres joins us for an inspirational talk on prosperity, entitled “The Secrets Of A Gracious Receiver”. Gain positive insights about the power of gratitude! #1 – Gratitude #2 – Self Worth #3 – Forgiveness #4 – Let Go Of Judgment #5 – Say “Yes, Thank You!” #6 – Tithing
Removing The Blocks of Shame and Guilt We’ve talked about what prayer is, the purpose of prayer, and how to pray affirmatively. Today’s talk addresses two issues that can clog up our prayers: toxic shame and unforgiveness. Quotes From Talk “If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours. He will put some things behind, will pass an invisible
Using Prayer To Deal With Difficult People Don’t waste yourself in rejection, nor bark against the bad, but chant the beauty of the good.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson Do you have people in your life that create constant drama and conflict? Do you dread the holidays because of strained relationships? Some people push our buttons – they have a tendency to make our lives difficult and seem to always say the wrong thing at the wrong time. It may seem easiest
Affirmative Prayer, Part 4 We believe that Prayer is the activity of connecting with the creative process of the universe. In this lesson you will discover how prayer renews the sense of your divine connection and can lead you to this creative process that begins inside you. Through affirmative prayer we make invisible visible. The creative process takes us from the spiritual to the physical, from heaven to earth, but it is first an inner state of being. Affirmative prayer is the highest form of creative thought and includes
Affirmative Prayer Pt 3 “Prosperity begins with a state of mind.” Anonymous “Prosperity in the form of wealth works exactly the same as everything else. You will see it coming into your life when you are unattached to needing it.” Wayne Dyer “Prosperity is a way of living and thinking, and not just money or things. Poverty is a way of living and thinking, and not just a lack of money or things.” Eric Butterworth Abundance is a universal principle
Affirmative Prayer, Part 2 “Which of you, if your child asks for bread, will give a stone? Or if they asks for a fish, will give them a snake? If you, then, though you are human, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your spiritual Father give good gifts to those who ask him! Matthew 7:9-11 What is the most benevolent and evolutionary thing that needs to happen in your life right now? How
Affirmative Prayer You do not have a problem except the one that is in your own mind, and you put it there! Myrtle Fillmore Along with my spiritual practices of meditation, affirmative prayer, and visioning, what catalyzes my sense of aliveness is putting those practices into action by being of service to others. Michael Beckwith Through the art of affirmative prayer the limitless resources of the Spirit are at my command. The power of the Infinite is at my disposal. Ernest Holmes What
Asking questions is the first way to begin change. ~ Kubra Sait The mind that opens to a new idea never returns to its original size ~ Albert Einstein All knowledge is connected to all other knowledge, the fun is making the connections. ~ Arthur Aufderheide Do you have questions? We are here to facilitate whatever you want to talk about in the time allowed. During our celebration hour questions can be asked from those present in the room and those listening online. You can
“I am now in the Presence of pure Being and immersed in the Holy Spirit of life, love and wisdom.” Charles Fillmore The present moment is the only thing that there is. It is a center-point between what we call the past and the future. Whatever is happening, is only happening in the present moment. The things that were experienced in the past can only exist right now in the mind. Whatever takes place in the future is created from
What if I told you that your belief about God is linked to the belief about yourself. People have asked, “how can God be unconditional love if there is pain and suffering in the world? In naming the qualities that describe the nature of God, it is important to realize that we cannot truly define God in the ultimate sense. We can never know all there is to know about divinity; God is always greater than our current perceptions. There