Rev. Sheila P. Spencer is a woman of many talents. She is an author, poet, teacher, traveler and preacher. A strong advocate of gratitude and its power to transform lives, Spencer wants to share her message with the world. Her new book, “Gratitude Journal: Recharging Spirit, Reviving Body and Renewing Soul,” pledges to be a helpful guide for anyone looking to cultivate an attitude of thankfulness.
Spencer’s journey to publishing her book began with a nudge. She felt a strong yearning to share her message of gratefulness and appreciation with the world. Spencer knew she had to answer her calling.
“My journey into ministry was not a single moment of saying ‘Yes,’ but rather a series of affirmations that prepared me for this calling,” Spencer said. “Growing up in Los Angeles, my initial ‘Yes’ was to the call of education. Subsequently, I answered the call to work in the Women’s Ministry and Education in Indianapolis.”
Spencer expressed that her path led her to the Christian Theological Seminary, where she earned her Master of Divinity, becoming ordained in 2019 at Light of The World Christian Church.
“The Ordination was a special moment because my father preached my ordination. A full circle moment,” Spencer said. “Answering my calling as a teacher instilled in me invaluable lessons of empathy, preparation and care, empowering me to confidently embrace subsequent calls in writing, ministry and beyond.”
This led Spencer to pen her new book “Gratitude Journal,” which is filled with practical guidance and steps to help readers develop a daily gratitude exercise.
“This ‘Gratitude Journal’ emerged from a deliberate season of rest and reflection. As I focused on intentional self-care this year, I pondered the practices that sustained me – ones that nurtured my spirit, body and mind, recognizing their interconnectedness,” Spencer said. “In a society that often neglects pauses for self-care, I firmly believe that it’s not a privilege but our right. I no longer wear exhaustion as a badge of honor; it doesn’t serve me.”
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Readers are encouraged to use the journal prompts to reflect on their blessings and express their thankfulness. By doing so, they can begin to experience the many benefits of gratitude, which include improved mental and physical health, stronger relationships, and a greater sense of peace and happiness.
Spencer said the “Gratitude Journal” is recommended for ages ten and above.
In addition to her book, Spencer is also a popular motivational speaker and workshop director. She has spoken at conferences, churches and other organizations globally. She is passionate about sharing her message of gratitude and helping others to experience the transformative power of thankfulness.
Further, one reader believes that the “Gratitude Journal” is “a great prescription to become more aware of self-care and put self-care into practice.”
Another reader, Monica Wearren, thanked the “Gratitude Journal,” calling it a “gift.”
“This journal is a gift … it is the creativity of a poet, the guidance of a spiritual director and the heart of a friend on a journey her own,” Wearren said.
Spencer hopes readers gain a sense of holistic well-being while cultivating an empowered, grateful and mindful approach to life.
“The journal empowers mindful living with its toolkit of practices, affirmations and exercises, enabling intentional living and resilience-building,” Spencer said.
If you are looking for ways to cultivate an attitude of gratitude in your life, then Spencer’s “Gratitude Journal: Recharging Spirit, Reviving Body and Renewing Soul” is a great place to start.
“The ‘Gratitude Journal’ acts as a sanctuary, fostering holistic growth and inviting readers to embrace gratitude as a way of being rather than just a feeling,” Spencer said.
Lastly, if you are interested in learning more about Spencer or her book, please visit her website at sheilapspencer.com. To purchase “Gratitude Journal: Recharging Spirit, Reviving Body and Renewing Soul,’ click here.
Contact multimedia staff writer Noral Parham III at 317-762-7846. Follow him on Twitter @3Noral. For more news courtesy of the Indianapolis Recorder, click here.
