Ancestral Wisdom, New Thought
“In the Western tradition there is a recognized hierarchy of beings, with, of course, the human being on top – the pinnacle of evolution, the darling of
Creation – and the plants at the bottom. But in Native ways of knowing, human people are often referred to as ‘the younger brothers of Creation.’ We say that humans have the least experience with how to live and thus the most to learn – we must look to our teachers among the other species for guidance. Their
wisdom is apparent in the way that they live.” ~~ Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants, Milkweed Editions, 2013, page 9
What a great way to start the New Year by reinforcing our spiritual backbone. If you have been listening over time to the messages of Ernest Holmes, it is familiar to you to hear his wisdom inspiring us to “stay open at the top”. The Centers for Spiritual Living annual theme for 2026 is leaning into this concept throughout the year. In a unique way, we will be dovetailing the core teachings of Ernest Holmes in The Science of Mind with the Indigenous wisdoms of all time throughout January. This month you will hear more gems from the book Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer. In The Science of Mind, we are reminded that a greater good is unfolding all the time for each of us. Indigenous wisdom has always supported this idea by recognizing and honoring the interconnectedness of all.
It is interesting that Rev. Dr. Mary Mitchell has chosen this new historical perspective to teach this quarter. The curriculum, titled Ancient Wisdom and Science of Mind, is just being released from Centers for Spiritual Living. It will be a certificated course that no one has taken before. We are tilling the soil of our minds to see what has been rooted in the past and serves us today with new nutrients of wisdom. We are projecting her class to start in January as soon as we can get access to the material.
There is something so exciting about the infinite possibilities of a New Year. We can set our minds on positive outcomes and encourage one another to stay in the zone of spiritual awakening. Every workshop and class is designed to support our inner growth and wisdom. Take the oath to fill your time with
uplifting connections to your Center so you can build community around you. It is vital for your wellbeing. May this New Year 2026 be blessing upon
blessing. May we greet each other knowing it is so.
Happy New Year with all my heart and love,
Rev. Sue MillerBorn