3 minute read
Spiritual soup
By Brian J. Lowney
For many South Coast residents, the start of the new year means an opportunity to head south and enjoy bright sunshine, warmer temperatures, and perhaps a few rounds of golf.
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Folks, however, who can’t enjoy a few weeks or months in the tropics, can dispel the winter doldrums and enjoy life to its fullest even when temperatures plummet and there’s a foot of snow on the ground or the pavement is covered with a sheet of ice.
Pastor Ken MacMillan of St. Paul United Methodist Church, New Bedford, shares that both winter and the COVID-19 pandemic offers people of all ages an opportunity to “slow down and be reminded to enjoy and appreciate life each day.” He adds that once these conditions improve and return to a degree of normalcy, people should not resort to a hectic life but rather should be more mindful of caring for each other and enjoying life’s simple blessings.
Pastor Ken MacMillan
“I just try to enjoy nature as much as I can,” the minister begins. “I take walks and quick drives in the car and roll down the window and enjoy some fresh air.”
Adding that his goal is not to be “cooped up,” the pastor adds he keeps his sanity by frequently taking on new projects in his busy house, helping his wife and their champion Salukis, and assisting his two sons with their school work. The pastor also oversees two active urban churches and their ministries and operates a successful web design company.
“It’s important to get outside and enjoy most aspects of life but still avoid personal contacts,” he continues. “You simply can’t shut yourself off from the world.”
Pastor MacMillan emphasizes the importance of individuals to “remain healthy, eat healthily, and stay motivated,” no matter the season.
“Self-care is very important,” he continues, adding that people should take the time to prepare healthy snacks and meals and enjoy their food. Pastor MacMillan emphasizes that this practice should continue not only continue throughout these trying times and winter months but also throughout the year.
“It’s kind of hard to bring others up if you don’t do it yourself,” he says, noting that during the winter months, when many people become discouraged, depressed, and isolated because of weather and climatic conditions, it’s crucial to forge ahead with daily living, stay vibrant, and keep learning new things every day.
“Always try to stay active,” the pastor observes.”This pandemic and the winter months are not forever things. Bring positivity into your and other people’s lives and make each and every day the best one possible.”
For those individuals who have Internet access or television, the pastor suggests viewing church services and listening to sermons in a preferred denomination, and reaching out on the telephone to speak to those who need a lift in spirits.
“A few minutes of your time will brighten people’s lives,” he says. “Stop and take some time and be a good, honest, and genuine friend to them.”
According to the pastor, it’s important for people of all ages and seasons – especially during the winter doldrums – to entertain their minds.
“Read as much as possible,” he shares, adding that while books, magazines, and periodicals also stimulate interest, winter is also a good time to learn a new hobby such as knitting, painting, or playing Scrabble.
“There are so many things you can do,” Pastor Ken says, adding that he also enjoys preparing nutritious meals for his family and trying new recipes. “I have been cooking like a crazy chef,” he quips, sharing that the Internet and watching cooking shows on TV are both great ways to broaden your culinary horizons and sharpen cooking skills.
“This is a good time to serve the people of God every day in every way,” he concludes.
