Thoughts and musings from a writer, editor, photographer, activist, and musician in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. I believe that faith and social action are intertwined in efforts to positively motivate change in the society around us. We need to be actively involved in our communities to try to effect this change locally and globally. I also love the local Arts scene. Warning: alternative perspectives and strong opinions ahead. Intimidated yet? Good - read on.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Picnic Fun
Yesterday was our congregational picnic. We enjoyed a beautiful day outside in fellowship. Although the service was shortened dramatically, I actually found it far more meaningful to experience it outside than indoors. Being right in the midst of G-d's creation made everything so real. G-d doesn't live in a building, not exclusively. Sometimes a less formal environment can be more accessible to people who typically are not all that interested in organized religion.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Friendship Bag
We have a program called Secret Sisters at our congregation. The women fill out information cards, and then we put the cards together and do a draw. The person whose card we pull is our "Secret Sister" for a pre-determined length of time. We hold this person up in prayer, send encouraging notes, and occasionally a small gift -- all anonymously, until the cycle is over and we reveal ourselves.
For my birthday (which is today), my Secret Sister left a gift bagin the Sanctuary, with a card, and two small gifts. One is a desk ornament (a very cute metal dog) and the other is a "Friendship Bag." It's a bag full of different things, with an explanation on the outside. The items are symbolic representations of different aspects of friendship, using tangible items. Here is the list:
---
This Friendship Bag contains a few reminders of friendship.
Lifesavers - to remind you of the many times others may need your help and you need theirs.
Cottom Ball - for the rough roads ahead; seek the cushioned support of your family and friends.
Rubber Band - a reminder to stay flexible.
Sweet and Sour Candy - to help you appreciate the differences in others.
Candy Kiss - to reminder you that we all need hugs and kisses.
Happy Face - smiling not only increases your face value, it is contangious.
Candle - to remind you to share your light with others.
Band Aid - for healing hurt feelings; yours or someone else's.
Recipe Card - to share a favourite receipe with a friend as a symbol of caring.
Eraser - to remind you that every day you can start over with a clean slate.
---
I think friendship bags could be made with a variety of different items, personalized for the occasion or recipient. I'm definitely going to hold on to mine.
For my birthday (which is today), my Secret Sister left a gift bagin the Sanctuary, with a card, and two small gifts. One is a desk ornament (a very cute metal dog) and the other is a "Friendship Bag." It's a bag full of different things, with an explanation on the outside. The items are symbolic representations of different aspects of friendship, using tangible items. Here is the list:
---
This Friendship Bag contains a few reminders of friendship.
Lifesavers - to remind you of the many times others may need your help and you need theirs.
Cottom Ball - for the rough roads ahead; seek the cushioned support of your family and friends.
Rubber Band - a reminder to stay flexible.
Sweet and Sour Candy - to help you appreciate the differences in others.
Candy Kiss - to reminder you that we all need hugs and kisses.
Happy Face - smiling not only increases your face value, it is contangious.
Candle - to remind you to share your light with others.
Band Aid - for healing hurt feelings; yours or someone else's.
Recipe Card - to share a favourite receipe with a friend as a symbol of caring.
Eraser - to remind you that every day you can start over with a clean slate.
---
I think friendship bags could be made with a variety of different items, personalized for the occasion or recipient. I'm definitely going to hold on to mine.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)