From the Chaplaincy

The Time For Thinkers Has Come

This year’s theme, serves as a powerful and timely reminder. It encourages people to be conscious of their thoughts, to begin each day with the right mindset, and to let that guide their actions.

Dawn is a particularly reflective time—the stars fading, the sky painted in soft pinks and oranges, the air fresh and crisp. A photo captured on the banks of the Murray River after a peaceful morning walk perfectly encapsulates this moment of mindfulness. It brings to mind a line from Harriet Beecher Stowe’s hymn: “Still, still with Thee when purple morning breaketh… Dawns the sweet consciousness, I am with Thee.” That phrase—sweet consciousness—is worth exploring.

A happy place for reflection might be by a pond, listening to the gentle trickle of water. But what makes it special isn’t just the setting—it’s the quality of thought, the state of consciousness. It is the awareness of being in the presence of divine goodness.

But how does one reach this state of mind? How does one silence the constant noise of a busy life, let go of past regrets, and quiet unhelpful thoughts? Many enlightened thinkers have written about this, and one particularly grounding quote comes from Mary Baker Eddy: “The depth, breadth, height, might, majesty, and glory of infinite Love fill all space. That is enough!” What an expansive thought—the idea of an infinite presence of loveliness, washing over everything, all-pervading and all-encompassing.

There is no place where divine presence is not. Letting this awareness take hold brings a sense of being wrapped in unwavering, abundant Love. This is what brings stillness—Still, still with Thee. It is the moment when every other thought fades, leaving only peace. This is right thinking, setting the foundation for the rest of the day. It is the soil in which feelings and actions are rooted.

Right feeling is an intuition and deep conviction that all is good. Jesus Christ taught that divine listening leads to the inspiration needed in every situation. Love, a synonym for God, is ever-present and evident for those who are tuned in. Whatever is focused on determines the experience.

A striking example of right feeling is Beethoven, who continued composing despite his deafness. When he conducted Ode to Joy, he was unaware of the standing ovation until he turned to face the audience. He didn’t just hear the music—he felt it.

Right thinking leads to right feeling, which in turn results in right acting. By being conscious of thoughts, choosing to focus on Love, and letting that awareness shape emotions, the course of action becomes clear. This is the essence of “Right thinking, right feeling, right acting.”