With all the negativity in the news and the tension that’s dominating the national political stage, you may feel as if you’re constantly dodging shadows. It’s a challenge to remain positive when our families and communities have become so polarized. I have had to take a step back from the regular news and look for stories that showcase the very best of the human spirit. I believe it’s important to stay informed about what’s happening at home and abroad, so that we are knowledgeable of our world, but we need to balance all that information with stories that touch the heart and lift the spirit.
We are surrounded by compassionate souls who make the world a more positive place to be. I work in a high school and see on a daily basis the dedication of the teachers and staff who go above and beyond to give our students a positive school experience. As a mother of a son with special needs, I have been blessed by teachers, paraprofessionals, and therapists who work countless hours to give my son and his classmates a safe, enriching environment to learn and grow. Our involvement in Special Olympics has surrounded us with heroes- from the athletes to the staff and volunteers- there is an amazing energy that comes from helping each individual reach their full potential.
We don’t have to look far to see evidence of God’s loving presence in our daily lives. My prayer is that people see the light within themselves and in others. We each have a unique role to play in the collective human experience and together we can light our way to a kinder world for our children and future generations.
With Blessings,
Sheryl Brooks
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I was struck by the beauty of the sky at sunset one recent evening and I felt compelled to take a picture. I was immediately taken with the kaleidoscope of images that seemed to emerge from the clouds . I would love to know what you see. For me the sky is like a window to the Divine and the promise of eternal light. The angels that seemed to emerge from the clouds that had gathered in the sky reminded me that in God’s loving presence, we are never alone.
Blessings,
Sheryl Brooks
I have discovered the joy of cardmaking. It is a wonderful respite from the stress of everyday life. I love shopping for craft materials at thrift shops and antique stores. The excitement of the hunt for inexpensive embellishments is almost as fun as creating the cards themselves. We don’t have a large home with a designated room for crafting, so I bring in one of the folding tables from the garage that we take to craft shows and set myself up in our family room with a view the television. I have tote bags filled with all my craft materials and I am ready for a few hours of bliss.
Like writing or photography, cardmaking is a wonderful release that allows you to become lost in the moment. I find the creative process to be therapeutic because it gives a voice to my artistic spirit, which is all to often silenced by the overwhelming pressure of paperwork, deadlines, and bureaucracy. The time and energy I put into the unique design of each card is an exercise in mindfulness.
If you find yourself in downtown Glendale, Arizona Saturday Oct. 22, 2016, look for our booth, SILVERBROOK IMAGES, from 8:00 am to 12:00pm at the Glendale Farmers Market at 58th Drive & Palmaire where you can see these cards and many more in person!
Wishing you blessed weekend!
Sheryl Brooks
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The act of creation allows me to reconnect with a part of my soul that seems to get lost in the stress of everyday life. Whether it’s looking through the lens of the camera, painting a picture with words, or combining materials to create one of a kind greeting cards, there is a joy that comes through the creative process. I love watching an idea take shape and come to life. It’ s especially rewarding being able to share that vision with others.
On Saturday October 22, 2016 my family and I will be at a local farmer’s market where we will be selling our book along with our photography and hand-made greeting cards. Having the opportunity to connect with others in our community is such a blessing.
Look for us at the Glendale Farmer’s Market- Saturday October 22,2016 from 8:00am to 12:00pm in the parking lot of the First United Methodist Church at 58th Drive and Palmaire in Glendale, Arizona. Keep checking back in to see examples of the cards and prints we will be featuring in our booth as well info on future events. We will be signing copies of our book, The Restorative Power of Spirit, as well selling our photography in framed and unframed prints along with inspiration cards and handmade greeting cards!
Our dream is to uplift people’s spirits through our books, pictures, and cards at a price that is accessible to anyone. We look forward to ushering in the holiday season with you!
Blessings to you for the week ahead!
Sincerely,
Sheryl Brooks