One Lesson at a Time: A Year of Living Thoughtfully

Sorting through what we have learned in life is like sorting through household clutter: Some lessons we keep, some we share, and the rest we are challenged to throw out or recycle to fit today’s needs. Junietta Baker McCall, an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ with a love for writing, shares life lessons, philosophical ponderings, and stories with clinical and pastoral theories and practices sprinkled here and there in a series of journal entries chronicling a year of thoughtful living. Her entries are written using the format of four seasonal periods and arbitrary dates, starting with spring. Those interested in duplicating her format will find that the process can bring renewed vigor to their lives. The author draws on her personal and professional experiences, as well as inspiration from other writers, to consider subjects both mundane and sublime, from battling a cold to the rejuvenating nature of spring and building good karma. Reflect on your life and make sense of your place in the world with the thought-provoking insights in this journal of life lessons.

Junietta Baker McCall, D. Min., is the previous director of pastoral psychotherapy and counseling education at Beverly Hospital, Beverly, Massachusetts, and also served as director of pastoral services at New Hampshire Hospital in Concord. She is an ordained minister of the United Church of Christ and has served as an adjunct faculty member in pastoral counseling at Andover Newton Theological Seminary and as associate pastor of South Congregational Church in Concord. She is retired and lives in Concord, New Hampshire.