Short Spiritual Practices - Day 4

Focusing Thought:
Going to bed can be a sweet relief!  We all need our rest, and sometimes the days are simply too full.  But before you drift off into dreamland, do you ever intentionally reflect quietly on your day and who you were within it?

The Practice:
Amid your nighttime rituals - brushing teeth, washing up, pyjamas, hair, maybe removing makeup or taking medicine - interrupt your sequence for a moment and have a look in the mirror.
Don't examine the imperfections, your skin,  or your wrinkles or crooked teeth.  
Just silently look into your own eyes for a minute. 
Breathe slowly - relax - and take a moment to be honest.
Ask yourself what one thing you said or did today that offered a bit of hope, or joy, or love to another human being?
As it comes to your mind, smile at yourself in the mirror in the awareness that you were a blessing to another person today.  It was good that you did this.
If you honestly can't think of a thing that you said or did to ease another's burden, then whisper a short prayer for the grace, the courage, and the opportunity to do so tomorrow.  And give thanks that God WILL provide that moment.
And when it comes tomorrow, remember that this is an answer to your prayer.
As you finish looking at yourself in the mirror, promise to make a date with yourself tomorrow night at bedtime again.  And each night, reflect on the single word of kindness or encouragement that you have offered to another.
Remember, we make the world the better place when intentionally live in a way that blesses each other.

Peace,
Rev. Gail