Authentic Gratitude | 10 Ways for Gratitude to Meet Us Right Where We Are

2023 was a year filled with its share of challenges and surprises. I've titled our last teaching of the year: “Spiritual Reset,” drawing inspiration from some of my past writings and experiences, and I am sharing this teaching on my Podcast. In this teaching, I invite you to join me in reflecting on the significant moments of 2023 and how they've shaped us. Let's set intentions for personal growth and transformation as we gently step into 2024, embracing the incredible power of choice. It's a chance for us to nurture our spiritual well-being as we close out the year. Wishing you a Happy New Year.    I'll see you in 2024. For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/ For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com *Podcast Channels*  To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]  #podcast #spiritualitymatters #exvangelcial #exchristian #spiritualnotreligious #spiritual #spirituality #revkarla #leavingchurch #theology #religioustrauma #leavingchristianity #deconstructingfaith #religiouspatriarchy

Rev Karla's new podcast titled: "A Practical Spirituality: Finding Holy in Your Everyday," helps those seeking a deeper connection to their spirituality beyond the confines of traditional religious institutions. Rev Karla begins by sharing her personal experiences and insights on leaving the church and beginning a path of practical spirituality.   She reflects on the challenges and joys of transitioning from a life deeply intertwined with the church to rediscovering the sacred in everyday moments. She shares how she found profound moments of connection, peace, and meaning in the seemingly ordinary, from sipping a latte on a park bench to exploring the mysteries of the divine.   Practical spirituality can enrich your life, nurture inner growth, and empower you to make a positive impact on the world. Embrace your unique spiritual journey, question, explore, and find the holy in your everyday experiences.   You can read the blog version of this episode, listen on all streaming platforms, or watch the uncut version on our YouTube channel Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla. Please don't forget to like and subscribe!   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]    #podcast #spiritualitymatters #exvangelcial #exchristian #spiritualnotreligious #spiritual #spirituality #revkarla #leavingchurch #theology #religioustrauma #leavingchristianity #deconstructingfaith #religiouspatriarchy

In this episode, Rev Karla discuss the intricate layers of grief. Grief isn't a one-size-fits-all process; it's a lifelong journey that impacts us all at some point. It's not just about losing a loved one; it can be triggered by various life events, from relationship endings to significant societal shifts. Rev Karla challenges the traditional "five stages of grief" model, highlighting that it's not as linear as we once thought. Instead, think of grief as a winding path, often unpredictable and non-linear.   Throughout the episode, Rev Karla offers practical advice on how to cope with grief, while stressing the importance of acknowledging and honoring grief through meaningful rituals and altars that allow us to remember our lost loved ones. She also discusses how grief can be transformed into action, personal growth, or advocacy, sharing real-life examples of this transformation. This podcast encourages us to embrace our grief with compassion and seek support when needed understanding that grief is part of our human experience.   You can read the Blog version of this episode, listen on all streaming platforms, or watch the uncut version on our YouTube channel Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla. Please don't forget to like and subscribe!   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]    #podcast #spiritualitymatters #exvangelcial #exchristian #spiritualnotreligious #spiritual #spirituality #revkarla #leavingchurch #theology #religioustrauma #leavingchristianity #deconstructingfaith #religiouspatriarchy #grief

In this special podcast episode we are sharing a Sunday teaching from Rev Karla exploring the sacredness of the holiday season. December holds a multitude of holy days, not just for Christians, but for all of humanity. As we enter this busy season, it's crucial to prioritize self-care and pause to find the sacredness in the small moments.   Sundays with Rev Karla is a weekly teaching program. Each Sunday we release a new teaching video, alongside journaling worksheets to help expand on the materials. Teaching themes change weekly and everything is delivered directly to your email. You can learn more HERE.   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected] 

Spirituality Matters is a podcast hosted by Rev Karla that explores the intersection of spirituality and humanity. In this episode, titled "Authentic Gratitude | 10 Ways for Gratitude to Meet Us Right Where We Are," she addresses how gratitude has been misused in various contexts, and how many of us have been indoctrinated to see gratitude as a sort of punishment. Rev Karla discusses the harmful effects of coerced gratitude and encourages personal agency and authenticity. She draws inspiration from the teachings of the Apostle Paul, suggesting that gratitude can be a source of peace and connection with the divine.   This podcast episode is a safe space for healing from religious and familial trauma caused by forced gratitude. Rev Karla offers ten simple ways to incorporate gratitude, emphasizing that it's about finding comfort and healing amid life's challenges. Embrace the power of gratitude, as it was never meant to be a weapon used against you.   You can read the Blog version of this episode, listen on all streaming platforms, or watch the uncut version on our YouTube channel Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla. Please don't forget to like and subscribe!   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected] 

In this special Q&A podcast episode, Rev Karla answers these questions from her audience:   As a Gay Christian, it is both a relief and confusing because it’s all I’ve ever know. Do you think Jesus will ever return? And what about a new Earth? Can you do a series about interacting with others post-deconstruction? Like when to discuss and when not to, how to respect their journey without trying to correct them, how to meet them where they are? Would you be willing to discuss your thoughts on the afterlife? What are your thoughts on heaven?   You can read the Blog version of this episode, listen on all streaming platforms, or watch the uncut version on our YouTube channel Spirituality Matters with Rev Karla. Please don't forget to like and subscribe!   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]    #podcast #spiritualitymatters #exvangelcial #exchristian #spiritualnotreligious #spiritual #spirituality #revkarla #leavingchurch #theology #religioustrauma #leavingchristianity #deconstructingfaith #religiouspatriarchy

In this podcast episode titled, "Whose Land Do You Stand Upon? Eight Ways to Blend Your Sacred Activism with Your Spirituality and Help Deconstruct Toxic Ideologies," Rev Karla begins by reflecting on the false narratives and indoctrination prevalent during her upbringing in the 1960s, particularly regarding the Thanksgiving story and the mistreatment of Native Americans.   Rev Karla emphasizes the importance of deconstructing ingrained beliefs and recognizing the interconnectedness of spirituality and activism. She highlights the significance of November as Native American Heritage Month and the need to honor and understand the historical injustices suffered by Native Americans.   Throughout the episode, she shares insights on how to blend sacred activism with spirituality, encouraging mindful action, the study of contemplative practices, engaging in dialogues with those connected to Native American heritage, and exploring the inner work required for personal growth, healing, and meaningful activism.   You can listen to this podcast on all streaming platforms, watch the uncut version on YouTube, or read more from Rev Karla about this in this week's https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]    #podcast #spiritualitymatters #exvangelcial #exchristian #spiritualnotreligious #spiritual #spirituality #revkarla #leavingchurch #theology #religioustrauma #leavingchristianity #deconstructingfaith #religiouspatriarchy #nativeamericanhistorymonth 

In this special podcast episode, enjoy a segment of Sundays with Rev Karla exploring the theme of "Honoring What Was" as we approach the holiday season. Rev Karla discusses All Saints Day, All Souls Day, and what it means to dread the holidays because of grief and sorrow and how you can set boundaries for yourself. She discusses how traditional religious practices often discourage genuine expressions of grief, pushing individuals to prioritize salvation and celebration over acknowledging their pain. Rev Karla shares personal stories and common responses to grieving individuals, highlighting the need for more compassionate and supportive approaches.   She encourages listeners to recognize the importance of holding space for their grief during challenging times, without judgment or pressure to move on quickly. Rev Karla also suggests finding sources of comfort and support, referencing the book "Three Dog Night" as an exploration of rebuilding life after loss.   Sundays with Rev Karla is a weekly teaching program. Each week we release a new teaching video, alongside journaling worksheets to help expand on the materials. Teaching themes change weekly and everything is delivered directly to your email. Click here to learn more about this program designed to offer spiritual connection, inspiration, and help you reconnect with Sundays.   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected] 

In our latest Q&A series, Rev Karla answers your questions:   1. "Can you please talk about when people use an event like the wildfires and smoke to claim the scary apocalypse stuff and how do you finally free yourself from that?" 2. "How do you free yourself from the concept of hell?" 3. "In year four of deconstruction and doing much better, is it weird to still desire to be a part of a faith church community? Any ideas on moving forward?" 4. "Do you think most religious people feel guilty at all?" 5. “What would you suggest someone do if they are deconstructing? Not fully sure where they will land yet still have to do Christian things for appearance, like pray in public or give devotionals?”   You can read this Part #8 Q&A series in this week's Blog post, listen on all streaming platforms, or watch the uncut version on Rev Karla's YouTube Channel Spirituality Matters.

In this episode of "Spirituality Matters," Rev Karla addresses the often-unspoken issue of women perpetuating patriarchy and the internalized misogyny that comes with it. Drawing from her personal experiences and observations, she sheds light on how women, at times, unknowingly uphold societal norms that suppress them. From confrontations on social media to real-life interactions, she highlights the importance of recognizing these patterns and the power of breaking free. For anyone who has felt the weight of societal expectations or has been silenced by another, this episode serves as a benchmark, urging women to stand together, challenge the status quo, and celebrate their authentic selves.   You can read "You Disgust Me" | Seven Ways Women Disparage Other Women and Seven Ways to Respond to Their Internalized Misogyny in this week's Blog post and watch the uncut version of this episode on YouTube.   For a list of full resources for this episode visit us online:  Rev Karla's Podcast → https://revkarla.com/podcast/   For more information and support along your spiritual journey visit our links below ↓  IG → https://www.instagram.com/revkarla/ TT → https://www.tiktok.com/@revkarla FB → https://www.facebook.com/reverendkarla/ Buy Rev Karla a Tea → https://www.buymeacoffee.com/revkarla   Shop Rev Karla’s Online Store: shop.revkarla.com   *Podcast Channels*  Apple → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-matters-with-rev-karla/id1532612816 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6YCTW5kdJW0BIaKwTAp5jO Google → https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL3NwaXJpdHVhbGl0eW1hdHRlcnMvZmVlZC54bWw   To submit questions for Rev Karla’s Podcast email us → [email protected]