Feeling Still in the Swirl

December Greetings! As we dive headfirst into the festive chaos that this time of the year brings—final projects, class parties, gift exchanges, and cherished family moments—it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Yet, amidst the whirlwind, there's an invitation to pause, take a deep breath, and rediscover the peace that resides at the center of it all.

The Essence of December: Finding Stillness Amidst the Bustle

In the midst of the holiday fervor, it's crucial to recognize that the tranquility we seek is not a distant destination; it's already present within us. December serves as a reminder that we don't need to wait for a perfect moment; we can create it ourselves by taking a moment to be present and grounded.

Youth and Family Focus: Exploring the Concept of Wholeness

This month, our journey in Youth and Family is centered around the theme of Wholeness. We invite you to reflect on your unique definition of wholeness and contemplate what it truly takes to feel complete in your own skin.

Ernest Holmes once beautifully expressed, "The spark which burns at the center of our own soul is caught from the living and eternal flame of Spirit." This poignant statement resonates deeply, emphasizing that our inner light is connected to something eternal and profound.

A Pause for Reflection: Defining Wholeness in Your Life

Take a moment to ponder: What does wholeness mean to you? Is it a sense of inner peace, fulfillment in your relationships, or alignment with your purpose? As we navigate the holiday rush, understanding and nurturing our personal sense of wholeness can be a guiding light.

Practical Steps: Cultivating Wholeness Amidst December's Demands

1. Mindful Moments:

   • Incorporate brief moments of mindfulness into your day. Whether it's a short breathing exercise or a moment of quiet reflection, these pauses can bring you back to the present.

2. Prioritize Your Well-being:

   • Amidst the hustle, prioritize self-care. Schedule time for activities that rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.

3. Connect with Loved Ones:

   • The holiday season is an excellent time for family and friends. Foster connections that bring joy and warmth to your heart.

4. Gratitude Practices:

   • Cultivate gratitude by reflecting on the positive aspects of your life. A gratitude journal or a daily acknowledgment can shift your focus toward the abundance that surrounds you.

Closing Thoughts: A December Journey Towards Wholeness

As we navigate the December whirlwind, let's remember that amidst the festivities and obligations, our journey towards wholeness is a personal and ongoing exploration. Like Ernest Holmes' flame of Spirit, our inner spark is always aglow, waiting to illuminate the path to a more fulfilled and grounded life.

This December, may you find moments of stillness, embrace the warmth of connection, and define your own sense of wholeness amidst the holiday magic.

Wishing you a season filled with peace, joy, and self-discovery. Happy December!

December 20 we welcome all ages to come to our celebration of Solstice at 7pm

December 24 we will not have a Youth and Family Program but children are welcomed and encouraged to attend service with the adults in the sanctuary.

December 24 Candle lighting Services at 6 and 8pm

December 31 Youth and Family excitement coming 

Pie Day

 Annual Pie Day is coming this week! On November 19 come join us for community and Pie.  I am told there will be many to choose from. Store bought, homemade, hand pies.....you name it and I am here for it. 

I don't know about you but dessert is a very important topic in my household. Anywhere from "do we get to eat some tonight?" to what is the absolute best version. My little one doesn't love chocolate ( not sure if we are really aligned on that one...) and my big one can't keep her hands out of the sweets. My spouse loves Apple pie and ice cream and my favorite...Rhubarb hands down. 

On the calendar there is a picture of giant piece of pie so all know the excitement coming up. It's gotten me to think though- does pie have any greater importance? Is there a lesson to be learned from eating pie? 

I remember when I was a little girl my grandmother taught me how to make my favorite pie. We'd chop the rhubarb and clean it. She showed me how to make the crust. Shed send me to corner store to purchase the correct cheese. All of this was done in two languages as German was what she could remember when it came to cooking and English was all I had ever been formerly taught. 

We managed though. And those memories are so strong. We worked hard together to make those pies. We communicated and created something delicious. And when I eat a piece I remember her and her dedication to teach me her ways. They are sweet memories. She could have made them without me and much faster I am sure- but there was something in it for her too.

I wonder what my children will remember when they are older. Will something as simple as pie eating conjure memories? Maybe the smell of the redwoods we often walk in or perhaps the feel of ocean spray. We never can know which things will imprint on children. We do know that they are wonderful alive beings who capture and learn so much more than we will ever know. 

I do hope to see you all this weekend. I will be posting to introduce myself in weeks coming and you will start seeing regular posts. I will focus on our Youth and Family Program, child rearing and what New Thought teaching has to offer, and hopefully we can begin a dialogue as we journey together though one of life greatest gifts and challenges- Parenting!

Have a peaceful Day!

Jennifer

Hey Awesome Parents!

Guess what? We've rolled out the red carpet and are setting the stage for your kiddos to have a blast while you get your spiritual groove on! Yes, you heard it right; we've got Sunday mornings sorted with a VIP (Very Important Parent-and-kid) experience. 

Four Fabulously Fun-tastic Options:

1️⃣ Artistic Alley in the Sanctuary: Who said services can't be a color fest? Your mini Picassos can unleash their creativity with coloring sheets, all while soaking in the sanctuary vibes with you!

2️⃣ Tot Haven, AKA The Nursery: Got a cute munchkin aged 4 or under? The Nursery is like a mini-resort where you and your little ones can chill. Or leave them in the capable hands of our nursery attendants, who specialize in cooing and peekaboo.

3️⃣ Social Hall Cinema: Picture this—a large TV monitor where your kids can hang out and share some giggles and games while you keep an ear on the service. It's like Netflix, but with bonus spiritual enlightenment!

4️⃣ The No-Shush Room: No need to 'Shhh!' your kids in this room. Feel free to enjoy the service via live stream while your kids provide the soundtrack wit

h their adorable babbling. 

If you're as stoked about connecting as I am (and let's face it, why wouldn't you be?), drop an email to our Coordinator Jennifer Caldwell! Whether you've got questions or you're keen to join our league of extraordinary parent volunteers, She'd love to hear from you.

jennifer.caldwell@cslsr.org

Our Teens Creating

 Our upcoming art fundraiser will feature our teen art!!!

Teen Camp Art Show is Just Around the Corner!

Have you seen the fabulous art our teens have made to help fundraise for Teen Camp this Winter? Here is a sneak preview!

Keep an eye out for our teens' art in the Social Hall this September. All art sale proceeds go toward funding our teens attending Winter Teen Camp in Oregon. 

Thank You to Our Youth Volunteers!

 

Each third Thursday of the month our Youth and Family volunteers come together for professional development and community in service of the Center's Youth. This past Thursday we threw a lovely celebration for our Youth and Family volunteers, with food, break out groups to brainstorm about our programs, and beautiful friendship.

If you feel called to join us in the fun, reach out to Jennifer at youth@cslsr.org! Or drop in on our monthly 3rd Thursday meeting at the Center to learn more about the program and how you can get plugged in. 

CSLSR Softball Team Welcomes You

Come out on Monday nights and root for the Center’s softball team.

Location: Northwest Community Park, 2880 West Steele Lane, Santa Rosa. Park in the lot you first see. Our playing field is the only one bordering the access road, which you can also park on. (There are two other fields to the west.)

Here is a schedule of the games:

Mon. 7/31 at 8:50 pm – Team CSL vs. All About That Base

Mon. 8/7 at 7:40 pm – Team CSL vs. Community Action Sluggers

Mon. 8/14 at 7:40 pm – Team CSL vs. The Foldy Holds

Playoffs will be announced if we make it!