A Letter From Our Cathedral Rector
“How Can I Give Today?” Dear Brothers and Sisters:
I
n these times, it is helpful to begin the day with the question, “How can I give today?” I suggest 10 ways to be a giver in these days which challenge us to be upbeat, or even to remain on an even keel. And, as we give effectively, we will spread and experience joy. 1.
Give encouragement. Many folks are struggling and adjusting to a new normal, which keeps changing — but they are moving along, trying to do what is right and good. Encouragement helps us all to keep making good decisions and to give and find zest. Especially as the school year opens, let’s be people of encouragement to students, parents, teachers and administrators.
2. Give gratitude. Be grateful to God, to family and friends, and to professionals who are helping us through the pandemic. Find a way to express gratitude — maybe send a hand-written note. 3. Forgive. We are all victims in one way or another. People who have hurt us are usually victims themselves. Holding
on to the hurt or harboring resentment does no one any good. Start forgiving by praying for the one who has hurt you or a loved one. This is a good time to mend fences by expressing care and the desire to see beyond the rift. Forgive yourself. During these days, many people report that their memories of their own mean, foolish and hurtful actions are flooding them with a vengeance. If others have forgiven us, if God and the Church have forgiven us, if we would forgive someone who did to us what we cannot forgive ourselves for — well then — what good reason is there to withhold forgiving ourselves? 4.
5. Give the gift of volunteer time. There are many needs out there for folks to help in one way or another. We know this in our Church, in our neighborhood, in our places of work, in our community. In our bulletin, we regularly are inviting folks to volunteer, to make another person’s life healthier and safer. Seldom do we continued on page 4
If we start every day with the desire and the question “How can I give today?” we will have a spirit of dedication and build on the joy of giving day by day as we gradually work our way through this pandemic and all the fears, issues and problems which have surfaced. 3
