“The great thing, if one can, is to stop regarding all the unpleasant things as interruptions of one's 'own', or 'real' life. The truth is of course that what one calls the interruptions are precisely one's real life—the life God is sending day by day.”

—C.S. LEWIS
Clive Staples Lewis (Nov. 29, 1898 – Nov. 22, 1963) was a British writer, literary scholar, and theologian. He held academic positions in English literature at both Oxford and Cambridge.

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”

—THEODORE ROOSEVELT, (1858-1919)
delivered the speech entitled “Citizenship in a Republic” at the Sorbonne in Paris on April 23, 1910. The speech is popularly known as “The Man in the Arena.” His statements at the Sorbonne were part of a larger trip to Europe that also included visits to Vienna, Budapest, and Oslo. On May 5, 1910, he gave his Nobel Prize speech.

Quote displayed in the squad room at the SPPD Ron Ryan, Jr. Eastern District.

“A vision without a task is but a dream;

a task without a vision is but drudgery; 

a vision and a task is the hope of the world.”

—FROM A SUSSEX CHURCH,
England, ca. 1730

“Insight without action is a wasted miracle.”

—EARNIE LARSEN

INVOCATION

Dear gracious God,

Thank You for this day you have given us and especially for this occasion that brings us together as we celebrate the accomplishments of these academy graduates here tonight.

Thank you for the energy and commitment that it took for them to complete this task, which, I’m sure, sometimes seemed impossible.

Thank You for their family members and friends who provided the support and encouragement these graduates needed to finish their training.

Thank You for and bless their trainers, advisers, and everyone else who helped them through the rigorous demands of this academy.

Finally, Lord, I pray that You will bless this time tonight with Your presence, knowing that what we say and do here will not only be pleasing to You but also a blessing to each one in attendance.

In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

BENEDICTION

Dear God,

Again, I thank You for this occasion to celebrate the graduation of these officers and for all of the people in their lives who made it possible.  We know that law enforcement is a demanding calling requiring the highest level of professional preparation.  We believe that the training that they’ve taken has been comprehensive and challenging and will strengthen their commitment to “justly serve our community, with courage, honor, and respect, to create peace and public safety for all.”

Thank You for Your presence with us tonight, as well as Your help all along the way.  We pray Your protection over each officer—on each tour—on each call that they respond to.  We pray for all those currently involved in law enforcement that You will continue to guide, shield, encourage, and protect them as they uphold Your peace.

Thank you for blessing the families of each law enforcement professional, their devotion and sacrifice does not go unnoticed by You.

Please continue to be with our city leaders and our department as they serve our community.    

In your mighty name, we pray. Amen.

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
SPPD 2024-2 ACADEMY GRADUATION CEREMONY
by Chaplain Patrick Judd on September 5th, 2024,
at 1900 hours at Harding High School.

Part 1 of 3

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” —Theodore Roosevelt

I’ve struggled with it most of my life. Typically, I blame it on having a twin brother who is five inches taller with much broader shoulders. But if I was being truly honest, more likely, it is simply a character flaw hidden somewhere deep in my heart.

I’ve lived most of my life comparing myself to others. At first, it was school and sports. But as I got older, I began comparing other metrics: job title, income level, house size, and worldly successes.

I have discovered there is an infinite number of categories upon which we can compare ourselves and an almost infinite number of people to compare ourselves to. And with how flooded we are by social media, it’s easier than ever to constantly find someone “better” to compare ourselves to, which only serves to make us feel bad about ourselves.

Once we begin down that road, we never find an end.

* * *

Part 2 of 3

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” —Theodore Roosevelt

The tendency to compare ourselves to others is as human as any other emotion. Certainly, I’m not alone in my experience. But it is a decision that only steals joy from our lives. And it is a habit with numerous shortcomings:

• Comparisons are always unfair. We typically compare the worst we know of ourselves to the best we presume about others.
  
  

• Comparisons, by definition, require metrics. But only a fool believes every good thing can be counted (or measured).
  
  

• Comparisons rob us of precious time. We each get 86,400 seconds each day. And using even one to compare yourself or your accomplishments to another is one second too many.
  
  

• You are too unique to compare fairly. Your gifts and talents and successes and contributions and value are entirely unique to you and your purpose in this world. They can never be properly compared to anyone else.
  
  

• You have nothing to gain, but much to lose. For example: your pride, your dignity, your drive, and your passion.
  
  

• There is no end to the possible number of comparisons. The habit can never be overcome by attaining success. There will also be something—or someone—else to focus on.
  
  

• Comparison puts focus on the wrong person. You can control one life—yours. But when we constantly compare ourselves to others, we waste precious energy focusing on other peoples’ lives rather than our own.
  
  

• Comparisons often result in resentment. Resentment towards others and towards ourselves.
  
  

• Comparisons deprive us of joy. They add no value, meaning, or fulfillment to our lives. They only distract from it.

Indeed, the negative effects of comparisons are wide and far-reaching. Likely, you have experienced (or are experiencing) many of them first-hand in your life as well.

How then, might we break free from this habit of comparison?

* * *

Part 3 of 3

“Comparison is the thief of joy.” —Theodore Roosevelt

Tips on How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
.
How do you stop constantly comparing yourself to others? Here are some useful tips that have worked really well:

• Be aware of its ill effects. Take notice of the harmful effects comparing yourself to others has on your life. Intentionally remove it from the inside-out to free yourself from the damage this mindset has had on you.
  
  

• See your own successes. Whether you are a writer, musician, doctor, landscaper, mother, or student, you have a unique perspective backed by unique experiences and unique gifts. You have the capacity to love, serve, and contribute. You have everything you need to accomplish good in your little section of the world. With that opportunity squarely in front of you, become intimately aware of your past successes. And find motivation in them to pursue more.
  
  

• Desire the greater things in life. Some of the greatest treasures in this world are hidden from sight: love, humility, empathy, selflessness, generosity. Among these higher pursuits, there is no measurement. Desire them above everything else and remove yourself entirely from society’s definition of success.
  
  

• Compete less and appreciate more. There may be times when competition is appropriate, but life is not one of them. We have all been thrown together at this exact moment on this exact planet. And the sooner we stop competing against others to “win,” the faster we can start working together to figure it out. The first and most important step in overcoming the habit of competition is to routinely appreciate and compliment the contribution of others.
  
  

• Practice gratitude. Gratitude always forces us to recognize the good things we already have in our world.
  
  

• Remind yourself nobody is perfect. While focusing on the negatives is rarely as helpful as focusing on the positives, there is important space to be found remembering that nobody is perfect and nobody is living a painless life. Triumph requires an obstacle to be overcome. And everybody is suffering through their own, whether you are close enough to know it or not.
  
  

• Take a walk. Next time you find yourself comparing yourself to others, get up and change your surroundings. Go for a walk—even if only to the other side of the room. Allow the change in your surroundings to prompt change in your thinking.
  
  

• Find inspiration without comparison. Comparing our lives with others is foolish. But finding inspiration and learning from others is entirely wise. Work hard to learn the difference. Humbly ask questions of the people you admire or read biographies as inspiration. But if comparison is a consistent tendency in your life, notice which attitudes prompt positive change and which result in negative influence.
  
  

• Compare with yourself. We ought to strive to be the best possible versions of ourselves—not only for our own selves but for the benefit and contribution we can offer to others. Work hard to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Commit to growing a little bit each day. And learn to celebrate the little advancements you are making without comparing them to others.

With so many negative effects inherent in comparison, it is a shame we ever take part in it. But the struggle is real for most of us. Fortunately, it does not need to be. And the freedom found in comparing less is entirely worth the effort.

Stop comparing yourself to everyone else’s highlight reels.

—JOSHUA BECKER
Blogger at BecomingMinimalist.com; Author of Things that Matter

“We and God have business
with each other;
and in opening ourselves,
our deepest destiny is fulfilled.”

—WILLIAM JAMES,
(January 11, 1842 - August 26, 1910)
was an American philosopher and psychologist,
and the first educator to offer a psychology course in the U.S. at Harvard.
James is considered a leading thinker of the late 19th century,
one of the most influential philosophers of the United States, and the
"Father of American psychology".

“This is no time for
ease and comfort.
It is time to
dare and endure.”

—WINSTON CHURCHILL,
(‘The Roaring Lion’ — Nov. 30, 1874 - Jan. 24, 1965) a British statesman, soldier, and writer; twice Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, first during WW II 1940-1945, and again from 1951-1955.

“The best place to succeed is where you are with what you have.”

—CHARLES SCHWAB,
Charles Michael Schwab (February 18, 1862 – September 18, 1939) was an American steel magnate. Under his leadership, Bethlehem Steel became the second-largest steel maker in the United States, and one of the most influential heavy manufacturers in the world.

“Your work is to discover your work and then with all your heart to give yourself to it.”

—BUDDHA

INVOCATION

Our Heavenly Father, we gather in humble gratitude for the grace you've bestowed upon this exceptional group of men and women and their loyal K9 partners, enabling them to fulfill the rigorous requirements for graduation into the noble ranks of law enforcement.

As they embark on this journey, we fervently pray for your divine protection to envelop these handlers and their steadfast companions. Aware of the inherent dangers and risks they face in their line of duty, we beseech you to shield them from harm's way and fortify their resolve to confront every challenge that may cross their path.

Grant them, O Lord, the wisdom and discernment to navigate the complexities of their mission to safeguard the communities where we live and labor. May your guiding hand lead them through each patrol, each investigation, and each encounter, instilling in them the confidence to uphold justice with compassion and integrity.

In the midst of their daily trials, grant them strength to endure, courage to persevere, and resilience to overcome adversity. Above all, bless them with moments of tranquility and solace when they return home, surrounded by the warmth of their loved ones, replenishing their spirits for the tasks that lie ahead.

And when their tour of duty concludes, may they be reunited with their families, their hearts brimming with gratitude for your unwavering protection and guidance throughout their service. 

In HIS name we pray.
Amen.

BENEDICTION

The Lord bless you and protect you;
The Lord make his face to shine upon you,
and be gracious to you;
The Lord lift up his countenance upon you
and give you peace.

And let us say AMEN.

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
2024 SPPD Canine Academy Graduation Ceremony
by Chaplain Joe Carbajal on Thursday, May 23rd, 2024
at the Timothy J. Jones Canine Training Facility at 1400 hours.

INVOCATION

Heavenly Father, we ascribe greatness to you! You are the Rock, your work is perfect, for all Your ways are just. You are the God of faithfulness and without injustice; righteous and upright are You! Holy Father, you are the defender of the weak, and you are the avenger of the orphan, the widow, and the foreigner. You define love and justice in your Holy Word, as you have revealed Yourself to us. Father, we thank you for the city of Saint Paul and for the servants whom you have appointed for her. Bless them in their labors that they may seek to honor you and glorify your name.

Our Lord God, we come before you today, asking for your guidance and blessing as we remember those who have lost their lives while serving and protecting others. We thank you for their service and we thank you for the protection that you provided to our city through them. Our loving Father, be with the families that they have left behind. Be their comfort and joy, even as they remember the pain and grief of loss. Father, we pray that you will be with the men and women of the Saint Paul Police; protect those who protect us. Bring them safely back home each day and night to their families. Strengthen their marriages and protect their children. Grant them true rest for their souls. In Christ’s name, Amen.

BENEDICTION

Father in heaven, we came together  before you today to honor our brothers and sisters  who gave their lives protecting our families, our homes, and our communities. Help us remember their sacrifice. Help us remember, support, and pray for their loved ones. Most of all, help each of us remember, to honor their loss by serving with honor, humility, and professionalism. We ask you to watch over and protect our officers as they protect the streets of Saint Paul and to watch over their families.

Mat the LORD bless you, and keep you; May the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; May the LORD lift up His face to you, and give you peace.  And let us say Amen!

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
2024 SPPD POLICE MEMORIAL
by Chaplain's Frank Liu & Rabbi Mayer Rubinfeld
on May 15th, 2024
at Mears Park at 1200 hours.

Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate—we can not consecrate—we can not hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

—ABRAHAM LINCOLN,

November 19, 1863

Ramadan, in Islam, is the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. Because the Muslim calendar year is shorter than the Gregorian calendar year, Ramadan begins 10–12 days earlier each year, allowing it to fall in every season throughout a 33-year cycle.

Islamic tradition states that it was during Ramadan, on the “Night of Power” (Laylat al-Qadr)—commemorated on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan, usually the 27th night—that God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad the Qurʾān, Islam’s holy book, “as a guidance for the people.” For Muslims, Ramadan is a period of introspection, communal prayer (ṣalāt) in the mosque, and reading of the Qurʾān. God forgives the past sins of those who observe the holy month with fasting, prayer, and faithful intention.

—BRITANICA 

In this moment of immeasurable loss in Burnsville of two fellow officers and a paramedic… on behalf of your chaplains who serve with you and for you… our hearts are heavy with the weight of loss and of our shared grief.

The tragedy of the recent shooting and murder of the two officers and paramedic in Burnsville has hit all of us hard locally and our entire nation as well.

During this time of many emotions, let us lean on each other for support along with the many names… we call our Divine Creator.

May we all honor those who have been murdered by continuing to serve with compassion and courage.

Please remember… you are not alone!

Along with your Employee Assistance Team and your Chaplain Corps, please reach out… you are not alone.

I invite you to bow your head as we pray…

Heavenly Creator God,

Please comfort all those who are mourning the loss of all those fallen or injured in this recent shooting in Burnsville.

Lord, please bless and protect all our officers, first responders as they continue to answer the call to protect and serve our community.

Grant them and their families strength to endure the many challenges they face in the line of duty or support.

Holy God may their selfless dedication continue to inspire our entire community and nation to acts of selfless and dedicated service for the good of all.

Amen.

—SPPD Chaplain, Deacon Rip Riordan

Two natures beat within my breast.
The one is foul, the one is blessed.
The one I love, the one I hate.
The one I feed will dominate.

—ANONYMOUS

“For you were once darkness,
but now you are light in the Lord.
Walk as children of the light.” 

—ST. PAUL'S LETTER TO THE EPHESIANS
(Chapter 5, Verse 8)

For he that will love life,
and see good days,
let him refrain
his tongue from evil,
and his lips that
they speak no guile:
Let him turn away from
evil and do good;
Let him seek
peace and pursue it.

—1 PETER 3:10-11

The most celebrated genius in human history didn't just revolutionize physics but taught many valuable lessons about living a better life.

RULE #1:
Expend your efforts on the things that matter.

RULE #2:
Do things you love, even if you’re terrible at them.

RULE #3:
Have a puzzle mindset. Pieces (problems)
will fit somewhere in the puzzle.

RULE #4:
Think deeply, both long and hard,
about things that truly fascinate you.

RULE #5:
Don’t let politics fill you with
either rage or despair.

RULE #6:
Blind obedience to authority is one
of the greatest enemies of the truth.

RULE #7:
Science, truth, and education
are for everyone, not just
the privileged few.

—ALBERT EINSTEIN, 1879-1955 

1.
Is it the TRUTH?

2.
Is it FAIR to all concerned?

3.
Will it build GOODWILL and
BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?

4.
Will it be BENEFICIAL
to all concerned?

—HERBERT J. TAYLOR, (Rotarian 1932),
The Four-Way Test is the cornerstone
of all action for a Rotarian of the things thought,
said, or done. Rotary is a global network of
1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders,
and problem-solvers who see a world
where people unite and take action to create
lasting change—across the globe, in our
communities, and in ourselves.  

Yom Kippur—the Day of Atonement—is considered the most important holiday in the Jewish faith. Falling in the month of Tishrei (September or October in the Gregorian calendar), it marks the culmination of the 10 Days of Awe, a period of introspection and repentance that follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. According to tradition, it is on Yom Kippur that God decides each person’s fate, so Jews are encouraged to make amends and ask forgiveness for sins committed during the past year. The holiday is observed with a 25-hour fast and a special religious service. Yom Kippur and Rosh Hashanah are known as Judaism’s “High Holy Days.” Yom Kippur 2023 begins on the evening of Sunday, September 24 and ends on the evening of Monday, September 25.

—HISTORY.com

As we live our lives, we find ourselves confronted with a brute fact about how little we can know about our futures—just when it is most important to us that we do know. For many big life choices, we only learn what we need to know after we've done it, and we change ourselves in the process of doing it. I'll argue that, in the end, the best response to this situation is to choose based on whether we want to discover who we'll become.

—L.A. PAUL,
Professor of philosophy and cognitive science,
offering a new lens for thinking about important life choices:  
(Source: Transformative Experience)

When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume, among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. That, to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That, whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles, and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness.

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and, accordingly, all experience has shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed.

But, when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world… 

…And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.

—Excerpted from
THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE,
July 4, 1776

Invocation    

Good and gracious God thank you for this day and the opportunity to gather once again to honor those officers that have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of others.
John 15:13 states, “Greater love has no one than this to lay down one's life for another.” Thank you for their example of what it means to love another.
We also honor today the families and friends of these brave officers. Thank you for their care and support.
Creator God we ask that you continue to bless those that have died. Keep them close to your heart.
Continue to bless and watch over their families. Heal the pain and longing they have for their loved ones.
And continue to bless all the members of the St. Paul Police Department—officers, civilian employees, volunteers, and all who support them.
Give us the strength and guidance to serve and assist the citizens of St. Paul with respect and honor. Guide us as we seek to know and do your will.  Help us to remember we are all in your care both now and forever.
We offer these prayers with confidence that you will hear us since in Luke 11 you have told us, “Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and the door shall be opened to you.” Amen.

Benediction 

So now Higher Power, our celebration has ended, thank you for this time of remembrance. As we go our separate ways watch over us and keep us safe.
Please God be it your will that we are all able to gather once again next year.
And as we leave:

May the raindrops fall lightly upon us
May the soft winds freshen our spirits
May the sunshine brighten our hearts
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon us
And may God enfold us in the mantle of His love.

Amen.

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
2023 SPPD POLICE MEMORIAL 
by Chaplain Tom Dzik on May 17th, 2023
at Mears Park

Invocation    

We come together O god to give You thanks for these officers as they move forward in their duty and career. We ask for Your blessing on their lives and their families. Give them wisdom as they face challenges. Help them to be alert in every situation. Give them Your grace. We continue to pray for our city, our leaders, and our department as we give “Trusted Service with Respect.” Amen.

Benediction 

Our God we pray for this ceremony and these new officers as they begin their service to St. Paul.  We are thankful for their sacrifice, dedication, and courage as they start their new calling. We ask you to be with each one here and their families in this endeavor. Continue to be with our city, our leaders, and our department as we serve our community. For Your Name sake, Amen.

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
SPPD 2023 ACADEMY GRADUATION CEREMONY 
by Roger Koskinen on April 6th, 2023
at Harding High School

I think that I shall never see

A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest

Against the earth's sweet flowing breast;

A tree that looks at God all day,

And lifts her leafy arms to pray;

A tree that may in summer wear 

A nest of robins in her hair;

Upon whose bosom snow has lain;

Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me,

But only God can make a tree.

—SERGEANT JOYCE KILMER
was born on December 6, 1886, in New Brunswick, New Jersey.
He was killed while fighting in World War I in 1918. 

Part 1 of 4

Mental health experts reveal how to cope with different types of stress, from ambient anxiety to money troubles—Coping with different types of stress.

Feeling stressed from time to time is normal, whether it’s from a bad workday or watching the news about the coronavirus pandemic. But when the anxiousness and pressure build or stick around for days or weeks, stress can negatively impact your health. The American Psychological Association (APA) identifies three categories of stress: Acute—the kind from a one-time event like a big move or a death in the family; acute episodic, which occurs when you face a dreaded situation on a semi-regular basis; and chronic stress from persistent issues like difficult finances, serious trauma, or a bad work environment. Managing your stress first requires that you identify the source: Mental health experts recommend looking at these potential stressors so that you can make a plan for coping.

Type of stress: Ambient anxiety

Ambient anxiety is a type of stress that can be potentially chronic, and it is enhanced during current events and world unrest. It can strike anytime you turn on the news or hear about someone else’s ill-fortune. Ambient anxiety is not empathy, but rather, a stress-laden, intense reaction to bad news. This can range from a nearby robbery, for example—coupled with the fear that it will happen to you or to a loved one.

We all suffer from ambient anxiety from time to time and we have different thresholds for what affects us and how. Psychotherapist, Fran Walfish says her tips for managing ambient anxiety include lots of self-care, plus limiting your daily intake of news. “It also helps to avoid negative people. When trying to keep a positive attitude, you must avoid people who thrive on negativity,” she adds. Try these simple ways to make managing stress much easier.

Part 2 of 4

Type of stress: Work

According to the World Health Organization, work-related stress causes ill health, reduced productivity, and poor motivation. It also increases on-the-job accidents. “A study in Preventive Medicine, indicated that prolonged exposure to work-related stress is linked to an increased likelihood of specific cancers, including lung, colon, rectal, stomach, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” adds Dr. Walfish. Ways to combat work-related stress include physical activity. Commit to exercising, at least 30 minutes a day. This can be a brisk walk during your lunch hour, or as part of your commute home. It also helps to turn off the gossip machine. Avoid buying into or adding to negative feelings at work by discussing the situation with co-workers. Instead, discuss your feelings, calmly and assertively, with your boss. Don’t miss the signs you are headed for a nervous breakdown.

Type of stress: Parenting

Stress and parenting go together, in fact, the APA even has an index for it. This can range from worrying about your baby not hitting their milestones to concern your college grad finding a job. Parental stress can be all-pervasive, eliminating your ability to enjoy your own life.

You’re never going to stop worrying about your kids completely, but one way to reduce the impact of parental stress is through healthy habits. “The best way to deal with parental stress, and all types of stress, is to follow a holistic lifestyle. Healing your stress occurs from inside,” says Aditi G Jha, MD, a practicing family physician. Dr. Jha recommends exercise, meditation, and eating healthy food. “Sleep is an essential, non-negotiable aspect to stress reduction. A proper night’s sleep is a must, for the body to replenish energy, and function optimally. When the body is happy, the mind is certainly happy,” she adds.

Part 3 of 4

Type of stress: Urban living

The travails of city life are associated with a greater, overall lifetime risk for mood disorders and anxiety, according to a study done published in the journal Nature. The researchers found the sounds, smells, and experience of urban living impacts the amygdala and cingulate cortex—two areas of the brain that regulate emotion and stress. Moving to quieter surroundings is one way to cope, but a more practical solution may be taking a much-needed vacation, daily, through meditation.

“Practices that train us to tune into these expressions of stress, such as mindfulness meditation, offer a way to effectively manage stress,” says Jason Thomas, an educational psychologist, and meditation teacher. “This training gives us a greater capacity to be compassionately aware of our thoughts, emotions, body sensations, and behaviors as they are happening. With this compassionate awareness, we give ourselves an opportunity to step out of the stress cycle and regain a sense of emotional balance.” Starting a journal to can vastly improve your mental health.

Type of stress: Childhood trauma

Childhood trauma-related stress can include sexual abuse, natural disasters, war, and automobile crashes. It can result in lifelong consequences, including an inability to regulate emotion, difficulty focusing, memory problems, and chronic stress. Attempting to manage the stress of childhood trauma, ideally, begins in childhood. However, many adults find themselves still grappling with unresolved issues dating back years, or decades. Working with a therapist can help you identify the underlying cause of your stress, plus provide tools for building resilience. 

And therapies (including relaxation therapy, psychoanalysis, and cognitive-behavioral therapy) can help analyze the causes of stress, and address possible lifestyle changes to attack the stress at its origin.”

Part 4 of 4

Type of stress: Money troubles

If you can’t make the mortgage, save a penny for retirement, or come up with cash to feed your kids, extreme stress is bound to occur. This type of stress can be chronic, resulting in depression, feelings of helplessness, and even heart disease or cancer. Money-related stress is not easy to fix but does respond to positive lifestyle changes. If unemployment is the issue, working with a non-profit employment counselor is a solid, first step. If you have some money in the bank but are living above your means, it can help to analyze your spending habits versus your income, and working with a financial planner, to make adjustments. Be aware of these telltale signs you’re more stressed than you realized.

Type of stress: Life changes

Clearly, huge events such as the death of a spouse, personal injury or illness, and divorce, can trigger stress. But even seemingly minor events, such as moving or getting a traffic ticket can exacerbate stress levels. The American Institute of Stress lists these and other life events as contributors to stress, and they can all add up to a significant impact on your anxiety levels.

While it’s true that dealing with all types of stress is part of life, recognizing just how stressed out you are, and why, can be a good first step in coping. You may not be able to change your stress-causing reality, but dealing with it is within your grasp. Having solid relationships can help. Making sure to cultivate and maintain friendships can greatly help reduce stress, by supplying a sympathetic platform for talking it out.

Engaging in fun activities is also important. Do what you enjoy, whether it’s a day trip, museum excursion, book club discussion, or concert. Just make sure to find activities that get you out of the house, and keep the Netflix binges to a minimum. Outdoor events give you a reason to look your best and focus on something other than the stressor at hand.

—COREY WHELAN
(Medically reviewed by Ashley Matskevich, MD) 

I arise today

Through the strength of heaven;

Light of the sun,

Splendor of fire,

Speed of lightning,

Swiftness of the wind,

Depth of the sea,

Stability of the earth,

Firmness of the rock.

I arise today

Through God's strength to pilot me;

God's might to uphold me,

God's wisdom to guide me,

God's eye to look before me,

God's ear to hear me,

God's word to speak for me,

God's hand to guard me,

God's way to lie before me,

God's shield to protect me,

God's hosts to save me

Afar and anear,

Alone or in a multitude.

Christ shield me today

Against wounding;

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,

Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,

Christ on my right, Christ on my left,

Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,

Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,

Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,

Christ in the eye that sees me,

Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today

Through the mighty strength

Of the Lord of creation.

—attributed to SAINT PATRICK of Ireland, 460 AD 

Whether we like it or not, endings are a part of life. They are woven into the fabric of life itself, both when it goes well, and also when it doesn’t. On the good side of life, for us to ever get to a new level, a new tomorrow, or the next step, something has to end. Life has seasons, stages, and phases.  For there to be anything new, old things always have to end, and we have to let go of them. Infancy gives rise to toddlerhood, and must be forever shunned in order to get to the independence that allows a child to thrive. Later, childhood itself must be given up for people to become the adults that they were designed to be.

Getting to the next level always requires ending something, leaving it behind, and moving on. Growth itself demands that we move on. Without the ability to end things, people stay stuck, never becoming who they are meant to be, never accomplishing all that their talents and abilities should afford them.

—DR. HENRY CLOUD
from his bestselling book Necessary Endings

And all thy children shall be taught of the LORD; and great shall be the peace of thy children.

In righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee.

Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.

Behold, I have created the smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy.

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD.

—The Prophet Isaiah 54:13-17

Invocation    

Let us Pray

Most Holy one we ask that you be with us during this time of celebration. Bless our gathering.

We are grateful for these new officers you have sent to serve the city of St. Paul and all those who come to visit it. Thank you for guiding them to step forward to begin a life of service for others.

Thank you for all those individuals who guided, mentored and encouraged these officers. They have been supportive of their journey.

Thank you for sending a new chief, Axel Henry, to lead this department. He is a St. Paul guy, that has this city close to his heart.

In addition to our gratitude, we ask you to guide and watch over these new officers as they become servants to others. Help them to perform their duties with firmness, understanding, empathy and compassion.

We ask that all those who supported them up to this point continue to be there for them throughout their careers. Be with them during their times of joy but be with them especially during the difficult times they will experience.

We ask that you watch over our new chief. Give him the wisdom to lead wisely, help him become the Servant of the servants.

Good and gracious God we offer those prayers in your name.

Amen

Benediction 

Creator God our time together has ended. Thank you again for being with us. As we go our separate ways continue to watch over us and bless us.  Be with the entire St. Paul Police Family. As the holiday season begins, we pray it be a blessed and joyous one. We leave now knowing we are all in your care, both now and forever.

Amen

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the
SPPD 2022 ACADEMY GRADUATION CEREMONY 
by Chaplain Tom Dzik on December 1st, 2022
at St. Thomas University

Beside seven days, Kwanzaa has seven principles and seven symbols. Each of the seven principles are celebrated for one day.

THE PRINCIPLES ARE:

- 1 -
Unity

- 2 -
Self-Determination

- 3 -
Collective Work and Responsibility

- 4 -
Cooperative Economics

- 5 -
Purpose

- 6 -
Creativity

- 7 -
Faith 

THE SEVEN SYMBOLS ARE:

- 1 -
Fruits for our good works

- 2 -
A mat for the foundation of
traditions we stand on

- 3 -
Seven candles: three red,
three green, and one black,
each representing a
Kwanzaa principle

- 4 -
A candle holder that
represents Africa

- 5 -
A single cup to drink
from for unity

- 6 -
Ears of corn for each
child in the family

- 7 -
Gifts to reward others

Part 1 of 2

1. TAKE THE LONG VIEW.

Discouragement generally occurs when our expectations (what we think should happen) don’t align with reality (what actually happens).  In many cases our expectations are unrealistic, and this often has to do with how long we think things should happen.  If we take a longer view, and relax our expectations a little, it can really help to decrease discouragement.  The reality is that most things that are worthwhile take a lot of effort and time to come to fruition.  So be patient!

2. REMEMBER, THER IS NO SUCH THING AS FAILURE. THERE IS ONLY EDUCATION.

When we feel like we have failed at something, discouragement often follows.  However, failure doesn’t really exist, except for the meaning that we give it.  If we don’t get the result that we want, when we want it, we just need to take new action.  We can choose, instead of thinking of failure as bad, to think of failure as education, and therefore good.  When we view it this way we realize that failure isn’t something that is bad, or something to be avoided. It is simply feedback. It is simply education. When we think this way we ease discouragement.

3. STAY TRUE TO OUR VISION. SEE IT AGAIN IN OUR MIND.

If we are feeling discouraged, think about our vision.  Think about what we want to create in our life. See it clearly.  Feel what it would feel like if the image came into reality.  What would this mean for us?  How would we feel.  Once we see it, and feel it, we will also feel empowered and our discouragement will dissipate.

4. DON'T LET OUR EGO GET IN THE WAY OF OUR DEVELOPMENT.

Our ego is often the primary cause of our feelings of disappointment and discouragement.  It doesn’t have to be this way.  We can control our ego.  When we do this, we are on the path of development. When we are internally strong enough to handle constructive criticism, and feedback, we receive the rewards of growth.  Growth leads to happiness.  When we are growing we feel good, and we aren’t discouraged.

5. STOP COMPARING OURSELF TO OTHERS. WE'RE ON A UNIQUE PATH.

A sure fire, 100% guaranteed way to get discouraged is to focus on other people in a comparative way.  Here is why: we generally see their victories, successes, and strengths. We see what they have and what we don’t. We see why they are better than us. When we do this we get discouraged and we feel sorry for ourselves. We don’t as easily see their struggles, their fears, their setbacks, and their failures.  So don’t do it.  It isn’t empowering. Don’t compare. We are on a unique path.  It is great to be inspired by another, but if by hearing another’s story, we feel that we are lesser, then we need to just focus on our own path.

6. DETACH FROM REWARDS, FOCUS ON OUR ACTIONS AND GIVING OUR BEST WORK.

If our sole motivation for doing something is the reward that we might get from the action, then we are setting ourselves up for discouragement.  Action should be its own reward.  When it is, we are forever free.  Freedom is at the heart of happiness.  When we don’t need someone else’s praise for doing something, when we don’t need a “carrot” for performing our work, then we are truly free to just focus on our work and make it great.  When we create great work we are happy.

Part 2 of 2

7. CHANGE OUR 'RULES" FOR BEING HAPPY.

What rule do we have to be happy? What has to happen for us to feel successful? Is it in our control? If it isn’t then we might be setting ourselves up for failure. By rules I mean the set of circumstances that must be present for us to feel accomplished. For example if I have a rule that says something has to happen to feel successful, what if I don’t ever reach it? Or even worse, does it mean that I never get to feel successful until I reach it? That is a sad way to live. We have to create rules that serve us. We have to live by rules that are within our control. Here are some of my rules: I am successful when I grow and improve. I am successful when I give my very best.

8. CONSIDER WHO WE ARE SPENDING TIME WITH.

The people who we spend the most time with might be a major contributing factor to feeling discouragement. This can be a very hard one, especially if those people are family and loved ones. We have a tendency to become who we most frequently associate with, and if we spend all our time with people who are constantly negative, and feeling sorry for themselves, we can be influenced to see life through a similar lens. So what can we do? We can’t simply cut loved ones out of our lives. So what we should do is simply expand our social network. Join a peer group that is positive. Start to surround ourselves with positive people as a balance. Over time we will start to take on their mindset and this will help with any feelings of discouragement we may have.

9. GET OUTSIDE, MOVE AND BREATHE.

Fresh air and sunshine can have an amazing effect on our feelings. Sometimes when we are feeling down, all that we need to do is simply to go outside and breathe. Movement and exercise is also a fantastic way to feel better. Positive emotions can be generated by motion. So if we start to feel down, take some deep breathes, go outside, feel the fresh air, let the sun hit our face, go for a hike, a walk, a bike ride, a swim, a run, whatever. We will feel better if we do this.

10. TALK TO OUR MENTOR.

Our mentor can be a great source of wisdom when we are feeling down. So when discouragement rears its ugly head, go have a coffee with our mentor. They will be able to give us wisdom based on experience. In many cases they will also give us tough love and help us to snap out of it if we are feeling sorry for ourselves. They will also help us to make a specific plan of action to work our way out of discouragement.

11. DO A MIND MAP.

A mind map is a simple and empowering exercise that can help trigger our creativity and also pull us out of discouragement. Take a blank piece of paper or a whiteboard. In the middle write out what it is that we want (our goal). Then map our ideas that will get us there. Use arrows originating from our goal and pointing to the various actions that we could take.  Break those actions down into sub actions.  Spend a good hour of so on this activity. Once we are done we will have a great plan of action. Then get to work. Work will break the chains of discouragement better than anything.

12. GO FIND SOMEONE WHO WE CAN HELP.

This is a great way to alleviate discouragement. Go find someone who needs help, and then help them. It is really that simple. When we serve others, when we go out of our way to help other people in need, we feel better. It is impossible to be discouraged when we are giving all our efforts on behalf of another. Discouragement is a really a self-driven symptom.  We are focusing on ourselves.  That is why we feel bad. Something isn’t right in “our” life. However, when we stop thinking about ourselves, and when we direct our attention to another, we feel better.

—RYAN CLEMENTS 

“Be great in small ways.

Writing 100 words today doesn’t seem worthwhile when you see people publishing bestsellers.

Exercising for 10 minutes doesn’t seem valuable when you see world records posted on Instagram.

But winning the next 10 minutes is its own form of greatness.

People are so busy wishing for more time and better resources that they fail to make the most of the time and resources they have. Be great in small ways and you may be surprised by what you've achieved within a year or two.”

—JAMES CLEAR
Author of the #1 worldwide bestseller, Atomic Habits

According to one definition: Depression is stuffed anger. If this is true, and it almost certainly is, then the key to breaking out of the funk is to process your anger and ‘unstuff’ it. This might be as easy as journaling your feelings, problem solving and talking it through with a trusted friend or spiritual director. Or it may be more involved with seeking professional help from a reputable licensed therapist or counselor. But either way, the realization that anger and resentment must be dealt with and resolved in the present, is the hope for peace and happiness in the future.

—M. PATRICK LAWRENCE

“Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.”

—Saint Paul's letter to the Ephesians 4:26 

“You’re going to find yourself in a job that has challenges that you might not have encountered prior to entering the career. Seek out a mentor, and find somebody who can help you along the way and can work through some of those things with you. And don’t let other people tell you what you can’t do. Put in for special assignments and have the confidence and the self-worth to know that you are capable of doing things that you may not think that you are.”

—Deputy Police Chief Shannon Trump
of the Noblesville, Indiana Police

“Don’t underestimate yourself and don’t hold back. Go for your goals and set your sights on moving up in your career. Even if that means sparking change in an agency in order to get that promotion.”

—Kym Craven, Executive Director
of the National Association of Women
Law Enforcement Executives

“Life is never made unbearable by circumstances,
but only by lack of meaning and purpose.”

—VICTOR FRANKL

“Don’t worry about anything; instead,
pray about everything.
Tell God what you need,
and thank him for all he has done.”

—St. Paul’s letter to the Philippians 4:6

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

Two things can spoil unity on our team—gossip and criticism. To avoid these divisive things, we must realize that we’re all in the same boat. We’re like a group of people in a life-boat after the steamer has sunk. If we’re going to be saved, we’ve got to pull together. It’s a matter of life or death for us. Gossip and criticism are sure ways of disrupting any team or group. We’re all here to try to be healthy and to help each other to be healthy and successful. And neither gossip nor criticism helps anyone to be healthy and mature. Am I often guilty of gossip or criticism?

MEDITATION FOR THE WEEK

We should try to be grateful for all the blessings which we have received and which we do not deserve. Gratitude to God for all his blessings will make us humble. Remember that we could do little by ourselves, and now we must rely largely on God’s grace in helping ourselves and others. People do not care much for those who are smug and self-satisfied, or those who gossip and criticize. But people are impressed by true humility. So we should try to walk humbly at all times. Gratitude to God and true humility are what makes us effective.

PRAYER FOR THE WEEK

I pray that I may walk humbly with God. I pray that I may rely on His grace to carry me through.

In happy moments,
PRAISE GOD.

In difficult moments,
SEEK GOD.

In quiet moments,
WORSHIP GOD.

In painful moments,
TRUST GOD.

Every moment,
THANK GOD.

—RICK WARREN

Invocation    

Let us Pray

Good and gracious God, we gather tonight to honor and thank a group of men and women retiring from the ranks of the St. Paul Police Department. Each of them have been a gift to many during their careers. These men and women have spent endless hours serving the citizens of St. Paul. As they remove the mantle of servant, may they be proud of the many people they helped over the years. May they take satisfaction in a job well done.

As they move to a new phase of their lives, help them remember all the good things that happened during their tour of duty. Help them remember the many successes they had and the little things that helped make this career so rewarding. Help them remember the camaraderie they shared with their fellow officers.

Lord God, we also want to thank the families of these men and women and all who have supported them. Their help and encouragement  accompanied them through some tough times and made those times a bit more bearable.

We pray for all the hands and hearts that brought this food to our table tonight and we ask that you bless it.

Finally, we pray for the Ukrainian people.

We offer all these prayers in your name. Amen

Benediction 

Giver of Gifts our celebration has now ended.  As these retirees venture forth may their lives be filled with joy and adventure. Continue to bless, guide, support and watch over in a special way the entire St. Paul Police Family. As we go our separate ways continue to watch over and bless all of us. Help all of us be of service to our fellow travelers on this earth. We pray you will always keep us in the palm of your hand. Amen

—Invocation and Benediction offered at the SPPD Retirement Dinner
by Chaplain Tom Dzik on May 3, 2022

A PSALM OF DAVID

The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof,
the world and all who dwell therein.
For He has founded it upon the seas
and established it upon the waters.
Who may ascend the hill of the LORD?
Who may stand in His holy place?
He who has clean hands and a pure heart,
who does not lift up his soul to an idol
or swear deceitfully.
He will receive blessing from the LORD
and vindication from the God of his salvation.
Such is the generation of those who seek Him,
who seek Your face, O God of Jacob.
Selah

Lift up your heads, O gates!
Be lifted up, O ancient doors,
that the King of Glory may enter!
Who is this King of Glory?
The LORD strong and mighty,
the LORD mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, O gates!
Be lifted up, O ancient doors,
that the King of Glory may enter!
Who is He, this King of Glory?
The LORD of Hosts—
He is the King of Glory.
Selah

—PSALM 24:1-10

“A POLICE DOG'S PRAYER"

Oh Almighty God,
whose great power and eternal
wisdom embraces the universe,
watch over my handler while I sleep.

Protect my handler from harm
while I am unable to do so.

I pray, help keep our streets and homes
safe while my handler and I rest.

I ask for your loving care because
my handler’s duty is dangerous.

Grant my handler your unending strength
and courage in our daily assignments.

Dear God,
protect my brave handler,
grant your almighty protection,
unite my handler safely with the family
after the tour of duty has ended.

And keep my handlers pockets full of treats.

Amen.

—AUTHOR UNKOWN
Invocational prayer offered by SPPD Chaplain LauraRose Paradis
on February 7, 2022 at 0730 hours at the SPPD K9 kennels

Our Lord we pray for this ceremony and these officers as they begin their service to St. Paul.  We are thankful for their sacrifice, dedication and courage as they start their new calling.  We ask You to be with each one here and their families in this endeavor.  Continue to be with our city, our leaders, and our department as we serve with trust and respect for Your glory. 

We’ve come together to Lord to give you thanks.  For these officers as they move forward in their duty and career.  We pray for their families. We ask for Your blessing on their lives. Give them wisdom as they face challenges.  Help them to be alert in every situation.  Give them Your Grace.  We pray You will continue to be with our city, our leaders, and our department as we move forward. We pray for You to be with us all.

—Invocational prayer offered by SPPD Chaplain Roger Koskinen
on February 24, 2022, at Harding High School

I have been through the depths of poverty and sickness.  When people ask me what has kept me going through the troubles that come to all of us, I always reply, “I stood yesterday.  I can stand today.  And I will not permit myself to think about what might happen tomorrow.”

I have known want and struggle and anxiety and despair.  I have always had to work beyond the limit of my strength.  As I look back upon my life, I see it as a battlefield strewn with the wrecks of dead dreams and broken hopes and shattered illusions—a battle in which I always fought with the odds tremendously against me, and which has left me scarred and bruised and maimed and old before my time.

Yet I have no pity for myself; no tears to shed over the past and gone shadows; no envy for the women who have been spared all I have gone through.  For I have lived.  They only existed.  I have drunk the cup of life down to its very dregs.  They have only sipped the bubbles on top of it.  I know things they will never know.  I see things to which they are blind.  It is only the women whose eyes have been washed clear with tears who get the broad vision that makes them little sisters to all the world.

I have learned in the great University of Hard Knocks a philosophy that no woman who has had an easy life ever acquires.

I have learned to live each day as it comes and not to borrow trouble by dreading the morrow.  It is the dark menace of the picture that makes cowards of us.  I put that dread from me because experience has taught me that when the time comes that I so fear, the strength and wisdom to meet it will be given me.  Little annoyances no longer have the power to affect me.  After you have seen your whole edifice of happiness topple and crash in ruins about you, it never matters to you again that a servant forgets to put doilies under the finger bowls, or the cook spills the soup.

I have learned not to expect too much of people, and so I can still get happiness out of the friend who isn't quite true to me or the acquaintance who gossips.  Above all, I have acquired a sense of humor, because there were so many things over which I had either to cry or laugh.  And when a woman can joke over her troubles instead of having hysterics, nothing can ever hurt her much again.  I do not regret the hardships I have known, because through them I have touched life at every point I have lived.  And it was worth the price I had to pay.

—DOROTHEA DIX 1802-1887
An early nursing pioneer, Dorothea Lynde Dix was a noted humanitarian,
social reformer, educator, author and crusader.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given:
and the government shall be upon his shoulder:
and his name shall be called 

WONDERFUL,

COUNSELLOR,

THE MIGHTY GOD,

THE EVERLASTING FATHER,

THE PRINCE OF PEACE.

—THE PROPHET ISAIAH 9:6 (586 BCE)

“The proper response, as Hanukkah teaches, is not to curse the darkness but to light a candle.” 

—RABBI IRVING GREENBERG
 

“A candle is a small thing. But one candle can light another. And see how its own light increases, as a candle gives its flame to the other. You are such a light.” 

—MOSHE DAVIS

“Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness.” 

—ANNE FRANK

“There is a crack in everything. That’s how the light gets in.” 

—LEONARD COHEN

“The darkness of the whole world cannot swallow the glowing of a candle”

—ROBERT ALTINGER

“A little more fun, a little more love, a little more light every night. That's the joy of Hanukkah.” 

—UNKNOWN

"Blessed is the match consumed in kindling flame.” 

—CHARLES REZNIKOFF
 

"The miracle, of course, was not that the oil for the sacred light—in a little cruse—lasted as long as they say; but that the courage of the Maccabees lasted to this day: let that nourish my flickering spirit." 

—CHARLES REZNIKOFF

Does gratitude really change our attitude?

Gratitude will change your attitude. As gratitude becomes a habit, it will become your predominant state of being. The more you radiate positive energy, the more you will attract positive experiences in your life. It really is as simple as that.

What are the benefits of being grateful?

There’s evidence of a long line of health-related benefits from being grateful. They include fewer physical symptoms, more time spent exercising, less physical pain, more sleep and increased sleep quality, lowered blood pressure, decreased feelings of depression, and an overall boost to vitality and energy.

What is gratitude and why is it so important?

Gratitude is important because it helps us see a world that is much bigger than ourselves. When we have gratitude, we can help each other grow personally or in business. We can help those less fortunate because we see and appreciate how much we already have.

What is the true meaning of gratitude?

Gratitude is recognizing the bonus value for favorable things or positive life experiences for which we did not actively work towards or ask for. A dictionary definition would be ‘gifts outweighing exchange’.

20 WAYS TO SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE

1. YOUR PRIORITIES:
focus on what’s important

2. YOUR FINANCES:
stay organized

3. YOUR EVENINGS:
keep a routine

4. YOUR MORNINGS:
wake up a little earlier

5. YOUR MEALS:
prepare in advance

6. YOUR HOME:
declutter your stuff

7. YOUR CLOTHES:
streamline your wardrobe

8. SAY NO & OWN IT:
say no more often

9. YOUR PAPER CLUTTER:
set up a simple filing system

10. RE-SET YOUR HOME REGULARLY:
do quick clean-ups

11. YOUR FREE TIME:
be less busy

12. YOUR HEALTH & FITNESS:
cut down on stress

13. YOUR MIND:
avoid distractions

14. YOUR RELATIONSHIPS:
nurture healthy relationships

15. YOUR SELF-CARE:
are you a priority to yourself?

16. PRIORITIZE HAPPINESS:
keep it fun and light

17. YOUR CHORES & HOUSEWORK:
get systems in place

18. YOUR DAILY ROUTINE:
create good daily habits

19. YOUR CLUTTER: ask yourself:
is this truly useful?

20. DITCH THE THINGS THAT BRING YOU DOWN:
learn to let go