Click HERE to view Rev. Stacy’s guided meditation during the service.
Rev. Stacy Macris Ros channeled Rosie the Riveter for her Halloween message, “Don’t Let Your Fears Scare the Boo Out of You,” bringing a spirited reminder that WE CAN DO IT! 💪 Whether we’re worried about the future, facing a difficult challenge or questioning our own worth, we can draw on the power of Spirit within to move forward with faith, strength and grace. Can we overcome our fears? YES, WE CAN!!!!
During her message, Rev. Stacy explored three common fears and the spiritual practices that help us move through them.
1) FEAR OF THE FUTURE
When we find ourselves worrying about what the future will bring, returning to the present moment allows us to connect with Divine Presence and recognize the good already available. Practical ways to interrupt negative thinking include stopping complaining; replacing “What if this happens?” spirals with “What if it works out?”; limiting the attention we give to worries; and stopping the habit of “rehearsing disaster.” Breathing, writing down concerns, grounding ourselves through our senses, and connecting with a calming friend can all help us put our focus on: “What is my next best step?”
2) FEAR OF CHALLENGING SITUATIONS
Challenging situations can frighten us when we tie our success to our sense of worth. But what we call failure is simply information—an opportunity to learn, grow or move in a new direction. By acknowledging our feelings and offering compassion to the child within, we can remember that our results do not define us. We remain expressions of Divine Life, regardless of what we accomplish. Meditation, affirmations, visualization and self-awareness help us draw on our inner strength and resilience. And remembering what we have already overcome reminds us that we can face what comes next.
3) FEAR OF NOT BEING LIKED OR LOVED
Our divine nature is rooted in love. When we fear we aren’t lovable, we can begin by treating ourselves with the kindness we would offer a dear friend. Through self-compassion and meditation, we reconnect with the truth that we are expressions of Divine Love, inherently worthy of giving and receiving love. Community and support also help us experience that truth through caring relationships that remind us we belong. Taking a class, volunteering or joining a small group gives us opportunities to build those relationships—and to be supported and offer support in return. As we share kindness and appreciation, we nurture the love and friendship we long to experience.