Surprises

For your consideration…

Surprise and delights…excitement…is our message today. As an example, I was reminded of a weekend last February. I had just got home from 3 weeks abroad. I was babysitting my grandson. It was a Friday and the plan was that when my daughter got home, we would go out to dinner. I was expecting her about 3 or 4:00 pm. It was February in Michigan but it was unseasonably warm and was expected to stay that way through the weekend. At 2:00 pm, Alex called and asked how I would feel about going to Chicago for the weekend. She had found a place to stay that also let us bring our dogs. It wasn’t cheap but the location was fabulous. I think she was a little surprised when I said, “Sure. Sound great.” When she came home, I went home and packed a bag while she packed theirs. Within the hour, she was picking me up and off we went. The above picture is of my grandson. The condo had floor to ceiling windows on two walls. Conner was fascinated with the lights, cars, people, and trains below. The weekend was completely unplanned but great from start to finish. It was a real surprise and one I will not forget.

Yesterday, I asked students who liked surprises. Of course, they all raised their hand. Children love surprises. Somewhere along the way of life some of us lose all of part of the anticipation and excitement of surprises. I remember taking a trip to Florida to surprise my mother. My sister, Lori, said don’t do it. She hates surprises. Which was true but I did it anyway and we had a great time.

Our message today reminds us of the possibilities of surprises. It reminds us of the excitement of a great surprise. And it reminds us to never “hold on so tight” that we do not leave room for surprises.

That is the HOPE. And so it is.

Bit by bit, piece by piece, HOPE by HOPE action steps anyone can take…

-Affirm…“I am loved.”

-Remember…You are the keeper of the light. Wherever you go, there can be no darkness.

-Meditate/pray…ask…”What is my next step for my highest good and the highest good of all?”

-Drink lots of water.

-Get outdoors and take in at least 10 deep breaths.

-Leave room for surprises.

What made me smile yesterday…

-Well I was unhappy to  have my friend, Jody, leave but am HOPEful that she will plan to stay longer next year.

-Before work in the afternoon, I got returns made, my car washed and laundry done.

-A visit to see Alex and Conner.

-A good book.

Love, Blessings, and Gratitude,

Rev. Chris