The next several posts will be summaries from my recent meditation series.  By the grace of God, as well as readings from the ages and inspirations of friends, I am meditating again and remembering that mediation changes me.  Meditation changes my world.

I hope a part of these can serve as points of connection for you too, either in identifying with the struggle to be still or celebrating the uncomplicated companionship of God’s loving presence in our lives.  And I preface all with these wise words from a new, old hero of mine. 

“But it must always be remembered that there have been countless souls to whom the words “meditation” and “contemplation” have no meaning at all, and yet these souls have found God.  There are a thousand ways to him.”–Jean-Pierre de Caussade

“When we genuinely believe that inner transformation is God’s work and not ours, we can put to rest our passion to set others straight.”  – Celebration of Discipline by Richard J Foster.

Yep, it’s an inside job.  And I can get there by prayer and meditation if I truly want to make a difference.  In me.  In my responses to the tragedies and sadnesses that are around us.  And step into what God might want me to see, and do, and be in the name of Love.

It’s official… I am my Mother’s daughter.

I opened my billfold* today to discover an ample supply of toothpicks.  Flashback to Mom’s sweet, if not sometimes a bit mangled and torn, stash; always ready for that pesky bit.

I used to be a little disgusted by her hording, and you may be too by my sharing of this discovery in my purse.  But I wonder: are you too finding reminders of your parent’s particular quirks sneaking into your own habits, speech, mannerisms?

Some things float from generation to generation; others – not so much.  Today this glimpse of Mom was a fun reminder that I am my parent’s child.  And today that’s a good thing.

*There is an ongoing discussion in this household as to who has the wallet and who carries the billfold.  Just another example of across-the-creek (or is that “crick”) upbringing.