new chances

Cultivate gratitude each day this month.
Day 18: Grateful for New Chances

• Scripture: Mark 12:31 –– I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth; do you not perceive it?
• Meditation: Holy Love is always at work in our lives, opening new paths and opportunities. What is happening in your life that startles and surprises you? What is going on that confounds and confuses you, yet feels as if something is changing, moving, and possibly creating instances for growth?
• Spiritual Practice: Reflect on an opportunity you might be hesitant about. Pray for courage to embrace it and thank God for the possibilities it brings. Tell one person about this chance you’re taking to explore the new opportunity in your life, so that you have an ally who checks in and helps you consider it.

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SONGS:

• Opportunities by Annie: https://youtu.be/gvijXBsRZGY?si=77b4B9yqa43oQZqE
• Chances by Evan Craft: https://youtu.be/kIbAg4g5_IY?si=ttCp7qCiUa1aFyDQ

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For A New Beginning | John O’Donohue

In out-of-the-way places of the heart,
Where your thoughts never think to wander,
This beginning has been quietly forming,
Waiting until you were ready to emerge.

For a long time it has watched your desire,
Feeling the emptiness growing inside you,
Noticing how you willed yourself on,
Still unable to leave what you had outgrown.

It watched you play with the seduction of safety
And the gray promises that sameness whispered,
Heard the waves of turmoil rise and relent,
Wondered would you always live like this.

Then the delight, when your courage kindled,
And out you stepped onto new ground,
Your eyes young again with energy and dream,
A path of plenitude opening before you.

Though your destination is not yet clear
You can trust the promise of this opening;
Unfurl yourself into the grace of beginning
That is at one with your life’s desire.

Awaken your spirit to adventure;
Hold nothing back, learn to find ease in risk;
Soon you will be home in a new rhythm,
For your soul senses the world that awaits you