There are many stories which we hear over and over, and we understand that they are told for reasons beyond the mere transmission of facts. There is a Truth within the story, and in New Thought, our interpretation of the Christmas Story is focused on the birth of the awareness of the DIvine Presence within each one of us.

We celebrate the third week of Advent with wisdom from Susan Smith, Licensed Unity Teacher.

This week's Advent talk is presented by our Spiritual Education students as part of our New Voices series. Birke Earl discusses Peace, Kathy Koneckny guides the meditation, and Larry Bearden discusses the inner guidance which is always unique to each one of us. Susan Smith, LUT, facilitates.

Licensed Unity Teacher Susan Smith begins our celebration of Advent with observations of Faith, Hope, and Faith-Based Hope through the story of a missing family member, TK the Dog.

It's Thanksgiving; time to refocus on the very generous gifts of gratitude and appreciation.

For those who are willing, the practice of tithing can be a very helpful practice. There's no requirement in Unity to tithe; we do teach that it is a powerful practice. Unity/Peace, Tucson is a tithing center, founded by tithers, and primarily supported by tithers. If tithing a full 10% seems too scary, start with something smaller and grow your practice. Thank you for listening- we know it's a challenge, because we've all been there!

It is not uncommon to worry and complain about lack in our lives even as we block our own good, and do not allow Good to express fully. We need to learn to allow ourselves to receive.

As we relax into "enough-ness" we begin to understand that it is okay to share. We can safely help others without fearing harm to ourselves. And... it can be a challenge to navigate generosity when so much of the world is sending us the message that we must have all the latest "stuff".

Part of our ability to thrive and live the abundant life involves learning to manage fear. Much of our fear has its source in the fear of death. Yet- we are told that Life is eternal. In Truth, the sacred portion of us will never, and can never, die. The human body and everything of "this world" will be left behind at some point. It's important for us to live fully as well as to do and to say what we need to do and say before that time. VIsit www.theconversationproject.org for important resources.

When we couple our thinking and feeling natures, we bring together Imagination and Faith, which give shape and form to our beliefs. Be mindful of what it is you believe; our faculties (12 Powers) are neutral and will support the use we choose. Do you believe life is a wonderful adventure or a drudge merely to be survived? The faculty of Faith will support you either way.