Inspirational Story of the Month - May, 2008

Answers come to us in many ways. We can be given a Yes, No, or Wait . In her first book, Simply a Woman of Faith, Pat Hastings opens up her life and shares how the God of her understanding answers prayers and gives her the best spiritualyy-aligned answer when she simply talks to Him and is willing to receive His say. From foot-loose yard sale fun to irreconcilable death-related grief and loss, Pat reminds me that God works in my life too as long as I pray or talk to Him and accept His omnipotent lead.

God was ever-present with answers for me all through the 8 months my sister, brother and I saw our mom through death and dying in 2006. The times were not all sad either. At one point, according to my mom's wishes to pre-plan her funeral, we sat with the funeral director and helped her pick out her cremation urn. I silently took a moment to ask God to bring some lightness to this all too fatalistic meeting. Next thing I knew, I turned to the funeral director and asked what was next on my mind and in my heart, "Can we have some of our mom's ashes?" "Sure thing," the funeral director said in a thick Maine, Down East accent. Then he asked me the most astounding question. "How much would you like?" A cup, half a cup - a quarter of a cup...?" I was shocked and then blurted out in front of my mom, sister and the funeral director, "Good Lord, you are reducing my mom to a recipe!" We all stared at each other a moment in silence and then burst out in uproarious laughter! God typically answers my prayers with impeccable timing in the most amazing ways!

I wholeheartedly agree with Pat about how prayer works! When I talk to God He listens - even when an answer is not immediately forthcoming. When I remain receptive to His answers and signs of what next to do, my life unfolds according to the spiritually right-sized plan for me! Thanks for your Simple brand of wisdom Pat. It reaffirms for me what I most need to remember. God always guides me when I remember to ask and let Him!

~ Collette Wiliams

Inspirational Testimony - May, 2008

I was so profoundly touched by your book that I felt the need to write to tell you. I have been in the book business for more than a decade and this is the first time I have ever written a personal response to an author about their book. Your book was one of the most life-changing and reaffirming books I have ever read. As personal as your story was, it spoke to me of my experiences directly. It was certainly the right book at the right time. This past year and a half has been a difficult one for me with stress and severe problems with my health.

Your book was the first spark of light in a long journey. Your book showed me the way. I slowly and carefully worked my way through every chapter, making sure to answer the questions at the back of the chapter as honestly and thoroughly as I possibly could. As I made my way through the last chapter, I felt a little stronger and I little more confidant that there was a change in the horizon for me. The more your shared your story, the more I realized that this too shall pass and that it was not right to deny myself and chance of future happiness by wallowing in the pains of today.

Just as you realized your book came in its own time, I am realizing that I am right where I am supposed to be now. The last year has taught me that I am stronger, not weaker, than I thought I was. Walking on the journey with you, I saw a lot of myself and I hope to be able to take your trials and learn from them.

I know you wrote your book to connect with people in a way that would allow them to share in the joy of God that you have known for so long. You have accomplished your task. I think it is important to get your message out to the world. Words cannot describe the joy, motivation, hope and peace you have given me through your writing. I wish you great success and all the genuine joys the world has to offer.

~ Melissa Chiavaroli

Monthly Inspirational Message From Pat - "Happy Mother's Day"

May has always been a special month for me spiritually. I look forward in expectant faith to the blessings I will receive from God. It's important to expect and believe good things will come our way. I believe it's God's desire to bless us with abundance in all areas of our lives.

For those of you whose mothers are still alive, be grateful and cherish your time together. Let her know that she is loved. You never know if you will have another mother's day together.

It's hard to believe my mother died 40 years ago this year. I still miss her and think about her. Her name was "Honey." Shortly after she died, Bobby Goldsboro wrote the song "Honey." I have heard it many times over the years, especially in times of great need - when I need to feel her presence and that she is with me. I was surprised when I sat to pray a few days ago and feelings of sadness came to the surface. I have a picture of my mom when she was young and felt led to put it in front of me while I prayed. I allowed myself to feel my feelings and then went about my day.

While driving to a dance that evening, I was shocked when the words "Honey I miss you" played on the radio. What was more remarkable was that it wasn't the whole song that was played, but just a quick sound bite. Of course, the tears flowed as I thanked God and my mother for letting me feel her love and presence through the radio.

P.S. There are a couple of spaces left for the "Awaken to the Joy Within" retreat on May 3,2008 at The Five Bridges Inn. Give yourself a Mother's Day gift.