Gospel of Mark 1.11, upon Jesus arising from the waters of baptism -
And a voice came from the skies, "You are my dearly loved son; with you, I am well-pleased."
* * *
I arose to greet the ageless dawn bowed in awe to the waning moon I welcomed the coming sun soon to spread its traces of light over its beloved world
With the day, I lived fully alive without regret anchoring me to the past or anticipation leaving me forgetful of the beauty of the present
I looked at all things and seeing my face in each I could only say, "Thank you! Thank you!"
In the evening, I bowed again to the quiet night surrendering willingly my breath and all I had done Then, closing the eyes, I said, "Goodnight, My Friend,"
and
Love pulled me gently back into Its arms, whispering, "Well Done, Well Done."
*Brian K. Wilcox, "Well Done, Well Done," September 18, 2004
* * *
In bringing joy to another, we bring joy to God. This is one, not two, for we are one web of Life.
And we are blessed if another affirms us - this brings joy. We never outgrow the blessing of being affirmed for who we are or what we do. We express our oneness and love for each other by complementing and affirming.
We find joy, also, when we turn within and, like Jesus, sense an affirmation not of this world. When we know this internal validation, we wish others to feel it; we want to share it, to let others know their beauty and worth, that what they do brings meaning to this world.
Recall when someone affirmed you or something you did, bringing you a renewed sense of purpose, joy, or encouragement. Close your eyes, picture the person, and audibly or inaudibly say, "Thank you."
*Use of photography is allowed accompanied by credit given to Brian K. Wilcox and title and place of photographs.
*Brian's book, An Ache for Union: Poems on Oneness with God through Love, can be ordered through major online booksellers or the publisher AuthorHouse.
