St James Presbyterian Church English Language Congregation

We encourage our people to express their faith in God, in the Community

To Think About - with a little humour

ASAP
Ever wondered about the abbreviation of ASAP? Generally we think in terms of even more hurry and stress in our lives. If we think of this abbreviation in a different manner, we may begin to find a new way to deal with those rough days along the way

• There's work to do, deadlines to meet, you've got no time to spare, but as you hurry and scurry … always say a prayer (ASAP)
• In the midst of family chaos, 'quality time' is rare. Do your best; let God do the rest … always say a prayer (ASAP)
• It may seem like your worries are more than you can bear. Slow down and take a breather … always say a prayer (ASAP)
• God knows how stressful life can be and wants to ease our cares. He'll respond to all your needs … always say a prayer (ASAP)
• Today I'm saying a little prayer that God will send a smile to you and send you special blessings through everything you have to do. Pass this on ASAP!
  Poem by by Lisa Engelhardt
  Text © Abbey Press, St. Meinrad, IN. 47577

Ten Commandments for Reducing Stress

1. Thou shalt NOT be perfect, nor even try to be.
2. Thou shalt NOT try to be all things to all people.
3. Thou shalt leave things undone that ought to be done.
4. Thou shalt NOT spread thyself too thin.
5. Thou shalt learn to say "NO".
6. Thou shalt schedule time for thyself, and thy supportive network.
7. Thou shalt switch off, and do nothing regularly.
8. Thou shalt be boring, untidy, inelegant and unattractive at times.
9. Thou shalt NOT even feel guilty.
10. Especially, thou shalt NOT be thine own worst enemy, but be thy best friend.

Hope
Hope looks for the good in people instead of the worst in them.
Hope opens doors where despair closes them.
Hope discovers what can be done instead of grumbling about what can't be done.
Hope draws its power from a deep trust in God and the basic goodness of mankind.
Hope 'lights a candle' instead of 'cursing the darkness'.
Hope regards problems, small or large as opportunities.
Hope cherishes no illusions, nor does it yield to cynicism.