Don Shaw

2 messages · Permanent link

2024-05-05 The Beauty of Community Johanna van Gelder, Felicia McBarton & Don Shaw In this heartfelt message, Johanna van Gelder, Felicia McBarton, and Don Shaw reflect on what Unity of Walnut Creek experienced during Rev. Kristen's three-month sabbatical, celebrating the depth and resilience of their spiritual community. Johanna reminds us that Unity is far more than Sunday services - it is a living tapestry woven by every person who shows up, whether casually or in deep commitment. Don uses the beautiful metaphor of a community garden that thrives even when the gardener is away, while Felicia shares her personal treasure hunt of discovering growth, healing, and collaboration among the staff. Together, they affirm that this community is healthy, vibrant, and built on mutual love and support.
2023-12-31 Burning Bowl Service Johanna van Gelder & Don Shaw Christopher Brown delivers a heartfelt message on the transformative power of gratitude as we stand at the threshold of a new year. He reminds us that uncherished gifts vanish - that when we fail to appreciate what we already have, we lose sight of the abundance surrounding us. Through personal stories, including his own journey with chronic back pain and a life-changing encounter with a blind man on the street, Christopher Brown illustrates how shifting our focus from complaint to gratitude opens the heart and becomes the creative force that moves mountains. He invites us to feed the wolf of gratitude, fill our grace bank accounts, and remember that cherishing our lives exactly as they are is the foundation for all transformation.