But what? Why do we hold back? The apostle, Paul, admits to a similar problem: "I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate." (Rom.7:15, NRSV) Whether we want to quit smoking, find more fulfilling work, release weight, develop more peaceful relationships, learn a new skill, let go of anxiety, forgive a long-ago hurt, or heal any other condition in our lives, "how" is rarely the problem.
As I considered my own response, I realized that fear of failure was my main stumbling block. How many times have I approached this situation before and failed? How many quick-fixes and "miracle" cures have I explored? How many dollars have I spent on external fixes? Transformation requires vulnerability. It requires trust.
Claiming our good requires faith (as in willingness to believe). We must believe that we can actually achieve our good. Being willing to head down the path of transformation requires us to forgive our past mistakes, change our thinking, and move forward. We must be willing to make sure that our steps are actually heading in the direction of the good we wish to claim. We must be willing to commit to the process of change. Change can be a VERY frightening prospect! Is it really what we want?
At some point, we must bring our thoughts and actions into alignment. Either we want to change, and are willing to do the work required, or we don't. You have free will. No one is forcing you to make changes. Be willing to be honest with yourself. Do you want to be healed? If not, that is okay. Forgive yourself for even thinking you "ought" to change. Accept yourself and love yourself unconditionally! Your really, truly are already enough. Really, truly. If others continue to suggest that you "ought" to change, smile at them sincerely and genuinely thank them for loving you enough so much. Allow yourself to walk the path that best reflects your honest choice. You are not a victim. You have free will. It is your choice and yours alone.
If you do wish to transform some segment of your life, acknowledge whatever the stumbling block is, and devote yourself to doing the work necessary to walk over, under, around or through that stumbling block. If you choose the path of transformation, there are many tools available to assist you. But they will not do the work for you. The carpenter's hammer and nails do not jump out of the toolbox of their own accord and build the house. The carpenter must learn how to use those tools and actually do the work. Learn to use the tools available to you, and get a really huge toolbox! You already know the first tool I'm going to suggest is willingness. If the path seems too difficult, too frightening, too rocky, affirm: "Nevertheless, I am willing..."
Affirmations are a terrific tool. Here's one to get you started. Write it down. Carry it with you. Make copies and post them where you will see them. Speak it to yourself and aloud when it is appropriate:
"Forgetting the things that are behind, I realize I AM strong, positive, powerful, wise,
loving, fearless free Spirit." (Charles Fillmore, Keep a True Lent, p. 142)
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COME JOIN US FOR MOVIE NIGHT!
Friday, August 17th
6:00 - 8:00 PM
Unity Church of Peace, in the sanctuary
The featured movie is "Happy," a documentary film that takes viewers on a journey from the swamps of Louisiana to the slums of Kolkata in search of what really makes people happy. Click here for more information.
Popcorn and water will be provided for a small donation.
Event organizers: Community Outreach Committee
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NEW SPIRITUAL EDUCATION & ENRICHMENT CLASSES STARTING
Rev. Nita will facilitate both of the following classes, which are required for those who may be considering credentialing as Unity leaders. For credit, perfect attendance, homework, and $36.00 registration fee is required. If you are not interested in taking classes for credit, you are welcome come and participate as you wish. There is no charge for SEE classes at Unity Church of Peace- a love offering will be blessed at each class session.
Bible Interpretation: Acts through Revelation
Wednesdays, 10:30am - 12:30pm or 6:30 - 8:30pm
Aug. 15th through Sept. 12th
Have you wondered what we mean when we say Unity looks at the Bible metaphysically? Learn some of the basic vocabulary of the Bible, and begin learning how to uncover the hidden meaning behind the stories.
Discover the Power Within You
Saturdays, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Aug. 18th through Sept. 15th
This classic book by renowned Unity minister and author, Eric Butterworth, is one of the best introductions to New Thought metaphysics available. Whether you are new to Unity or have been around the metaphysical block a time or two, you're assured new insights that will help you learn to live and use the power of your Divinity.
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COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECT
The collection of backpacks and school supplies by the Community Outreach Committee for Youth On Their Own is still taking place. We have received an amazing amount of donations. Thank you! Still needed are 3-Ring Binders with pockets inside, 2" size, 2-pocket folders, Erasers and Small Pencil Sharpeners. We will be accepting donations through August 19th at the church. You can also make a donation through the organization's website .
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Child care and Sunday School is always available for kids
Our Sunday School teachers look forward to sharing Unity principles with your children aged 4-12. If you've got questions, please speak to our YOU teachers: Cindy Cawthorne, LUT, Barbara Richman, LUT, Judyth Willis, and Sunni Adams. Our nursery is available for the very young ones, as well.
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DID YOU KNOW...
Audio of our Sunday lessons is available online at our website?You may click here to listen. There's also always a button along the left side of these emails that will take you right to our "Listen" page. You may also listen and subscribe to our channel at Sermon.net And- if you have a mobile device, you can download the Sermon.net app from your App Store and subscribe to our podcasts. When you do, you'll be notified when new audio is available. We also generally have a few CDs available at church for those who may prefer to listen in their cars or elsewhere. New lessons are usually posted every couple of weeks.
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A FEW CLOSING WORDS
If you are willing to do the work of transformation, there are so very many tools available to help. Affirmations, denials, meditation, prayer, classes, books, journaling, and gratitude practice are a few that will be useful. A good place to begin is to find one practice that feels do-able, and commit to do it. Perhaps five minutes of meditation each day, or listing 10 blessings in your life each day. Wherever you are, start there! If you've got questions, please just reply to this email. It'll come directly to me, and I'll be very happy to hear from you.
Namaskar,
Rev. Nita
UPCOMING SUNDAY LESSONS:
(Based on H. Emilie Cady's basic Unity text, Lessons in Truth)
08/12: Chemicalization, Personality and Individuality, Oh My!
08/19: Spiritual Understanding
08/26: The Secret Place of the Most High
09/02: Finding the Secret Place
09/09: Spiritual Gifts
09/16: Unity of the Spirit
