Daily 5 - Year 3, Day 153

Today's Daily 5:

1. thankful for the realization that the really bad days are far fewer than they were even a year ago
2. thankful for new and unexpected opportunities to share bits and pieces of my story
3. the grilled chicken pita that I looked forward to all week
4. a good partner to work with this afternoon
5. the deep relief of arriving home to my own space, quiet and bedroom, after a very long week

Friday Reflections, January 20, 2012

Today's Friday Reflection is once again written by Henri Nouwen, and is one well worth pondering.

Being Safe Places for Others

When we are free from the need to judge or condemn, we can become safe places for people to meet in vulnerability and take down the walls that separate them. Being deeply rooted in the love of God, we cannot help but invite people to love one another. When people realise that we have no hidden agendas or unspoken intentions, that we are not trying to gain any profit for ourselves, and that our only desire is for peace and reconciliation, they may find the inner freedom and courage to leave their guns at the door and enter into conversation with their enemies.

Many times this happens even without our planning. Our ministry of reconciliation most often takes place when we ourselves are least aware of it. Our simple, nonjudgmental presence does it.

Daily 5 - Year 3, Day 152

Today's Daily 5:

1. a pretty crescent moon
2. an extra hour of sleep this morning
3. twitter conversations
4. spotting a guy riding a unicycle to the university in this crazy -35C weather we've been having
5. watching steam rise in the sunlight off the river
6. finishing class early
7. friends who generously feed me most Thursdays before church
8. the moment when a child communicates trust by coming and inviting you to take them into your arms or lap
9. various lines from the day that are still making me laugh
10. a few helpful hints on one of the nursing skills from a friend

Some Video Love

I came across the following videos on the weekend, and knew that I had to share all of them here.

They are animations of bookshelves and a book shop that are incredibly creative and well-done!  I hope someday my bookshelves come alive like these!

Daily 5 - Year 3, Day 151

Today's Daily 5:

1. moments of laughter
2. successfully navigating even some challenging group dynamics
3. a healthy supper that I didn't have to cook
4. getting the chance to be with the house church leaders
5. a kiss goodnight from my favorite little guy when his parents dropped me off