Element of Exposure

 

"Vulnerability is basically uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure."

Brene Brown

A discussion was unfolding and there was a need to follow each person's reveal. Numerous thoughts were well documented when mentioned, and interest maintained by curiosity. While intently listening, eclectic responses were being held captive inside, hidden. Feelings were triggered, challenging the current belief system.

While holding the tongue, a person can feel either sucked in to the energy or pulled back into the shadows. The voice can be used in either agreement or difference of opinion. The question is how much does one want to reveal or invest? How much exposure is one willing to risk?

Private thoughts, perhaps, are the key. Observe if there is alignment or division and why? The mind needs to be open, not boarded up like an old building. Allow movement of fresh thought to decipher what stays or what is to be removed. Respect what is held true but be willing to shift in understanding through the element of exposure.

Shouldering Burdens

"Worry is an old man with bended head, carrying a load of feathers

which he thinks are lead."

Corrie Ten Boom

Throughout our lives, situations blow up in front of us, leaving piles of debris. We have to choose whether to pick up the pieces and place them on our shoulders or stack them to the side. The choice is ours to make with each action having its own result. Inner emotional conversations can turn negative, misdirecting us and triggering misuse of energy.

When we are focused on guilt and shame, corrective implementation may be overlooked. We carry sadness and regret on our shoulders, lessening forward movement. Distraction from appropriate resolve increases the burden. If we would look at stacked damage, rather than carry it, pieces can be arranged for creative repair.

Puzzling restoration is a forward movement that does not weigh one down. There is still serious damage and heavy emotions, but we shift from 'why' this happened to 'how' can I move forward. Positive perspective is challenging to maintain, but the lesson heals throughout the body, mind, and soul.

As The Body Listens

"Some of us think holding on makes us strong;

but sometimes it is letting go."

Hermann Hesse

Change initiates movement which we can either welcome or resist. Even when we acknowledge the adjustment will benefit us, we can be triggered by fear. We would rather endure disrespect than face what is unknown. Courage is required whether we are moving emotionally, physically or spiritually. 

When we begin to embrace our body as our partner, telling it is strong and deeply appreciated, flow becomes more positive. When we engage with our mind with thoughts of being capable and worthy, clarity enters. If we turn to the Divine asking for a greater presence in our life, guidance grows stronger.

When we finally let go in search of what will rekindle us, hope shines on new possibilities. When we broaden our view, perspectives no longer keep us small. Feeding new information into our awareness, we begin to create the life we long to live. Letting go of the struggle, allows room for healthier scenarios. 

 

Destructive Repetition

"Make peace with your past so it won't destroy your present."

Paulo Coelho

We believe we know ourselves deeply, but based on our highly creative nature, repetition of lessons come in all forms and differing scenarios. The background has changed, the actors are different, and the script has been altered, but the lesson remains the same. When we heal the past within, these specific challenges no longer trigger us.

Unknowingly, memories dictate our behavior. We are trapped in confusion, illusion, and delusion. We tell ourselves narratives based on previous judgments that reduced our original nature. When we dislodge the untruth, our inner respect, value, and awareness prevent engaging in past scenarios.

We cannot always control the thoughts that bubble up in our mind, but we do have choice as to our response. If we engage, we will relive the destruction. If we observe and let go, our inner health will continue to grow. We have control as to how we react, so hold the self accountable. Stop reliving the past and move forward.

 

"Kissing the Dark"

 

"The eclipse is the moon's way of kissing the dark."

Pablo Neruda

There is something about this darkness that releases our reserve and enables the heart to express sorrow. Unfiltered, pain seeps out and knowing we are unseen, tears do stream. Anger can be quietly acknowledged in preparation for this darkness to heal. That which we have avoided, can now form before us.

In this space of darkness, we can rekindle our desire to thrive, not marginally survive. An awareness settles on the reality of us needing to be the one who can shift us from sadness. Vision enhances what we most want for our lovely selves, rather than what others are projecting. There is an end to waiting for someone else to repair.

As we walk through this dark space, choices are made for resolve that best resonates with our purpose. As our emotions subside, the breath of life becomes deeper. Tension is released and peace returns to our perceptions. Energy begins to realign and our cells happily transport hope and joy, ultimately moving us forward.

Connecting ...

Creativity is just connecting things."

Steve Jobs

A few wisps of dream content hang in our mind as we awaken from a deep sleep. We find ourselves intrigued by the content, but by the time we get up, all has been forgotten. While listening to a podcast, an idea surfaces that we find to be quite exciting, but we soon lose track of it. Inspiration falls upon us, but we simply are not paying attention.

When we learn to take our ideas seriously and begin to link them together all kinds of sparks fly! Our thinking is challenged, curiosity heightens, and excitement builds. When we tone down our negative thinking and hype up imagination, things start coming together. Ideas align as we hold our vision quietly in thought.

Whether we are developing a lifetime investment or sketching a spring garden plot, the importance is moving forward, adding magic to the project. As excitement enters our life, we feel more alive, again. Purpose drives us and courage strengthens our sense of capabilities. There is no time like the present to begin connecting the dots.

Division of Personal Power

 

"Showing a lack of self-control is in the same vein granting authority to others."

Criss Jami

Flexibility is important when dealing with others, but not at the cost of self. The stronger our belief system, the less reaction we have to someone else's challenge. If our need to be appreciated is greater than self-respect, too readily our personal power begins to shift. We become less of who we are and more easily manipulated.

When we choose to stand by what we hold dear, those who do not align with us may not be the people we need to have in our presence. There is nothing wrong with disagreement unless it requires self-defacement. There is great value in allowing space for all people, but not if requires us to be smaller.  

When we are content with our personal power, we are free to visit diversity. With honor and respect, we can visit differences with the option of changing our perceptions. Pay attention to physical reaction, as it is newsworthy as well. Remain balanced and appreciate those who understand our passion and remain by our side.  

This Love of Mine ...

"Let us learn to live with kindness, to love everyone,

even when they do not love us."

Pope Francis

The emphasis on Valentine's Day aught not be on candles, boxed chocolates and fancy dinners. It is not singularly about hot romance and steaming sex. The tunnel vision on love desperately needs to be expanded. There is love in every beating heart and each one needs to be nurtured and safe guarded.

Without love, hearts are overtaken by negative emotions. They turn cold and isolated. Behaviors become altered without a healthy beat. When love is allowed to flow, there is more kindness and respect. There is a warm connection with higher regard for peaceful living amongst us all.

Place your hand on your heart and feel its soft presence. Close your eyes and envision love flowing through it. Now turn outwards, allowing this love to float towards others whether you like them or not. Let's extend this love throughout the land, generating a safe space for all humans to abide. It is imperative that we all begin to generate love.

Cloak of Integrity

"Keep your face always toward the sunshine ...

and shadows will fall behind you."

Walt Whitman

Integrity can be similar to a suit of armor. When we align our actions with our heart and clarity of mind, there is integrity. When we engage with life sustaining our moral code, there will continue to be challenges, but the results may be more rewarding. Knowing that we did our best with honesty and truthfulness.

If we remain respectful without spewing blame and anger onto others, we proceed with integrity. As we are led into new directions, there is more clarity when not distracted by past issues. If we are still suffering from emotional pain, allow our lovely selves to rest before continuing on as wholeness is needed strength.

When we face the sun, its brilliance calls together our hearts, minds, and intentions. We tend to stand on firmer ground, open to possibilities to experience life in new ways. In remembering our lessons from the darkness, we move forward towards the light with loving kindness. Choices made with integrity will enhance our experiences.

 

All Men ...

"All men are created equal."

Abraham Lincoln 

All men may be created equal, but the equality on this earth is it distributed fairly? Abraham Lincoln would be appalled to view the regression of mankind.  Would he wonder if all of his work had been in vain? How would he react seeing man still recklessly killing man and forcing them into just another form of slavery?

There was firsthand experience of prejudice growing up in Chicago. Awareness of injustice increased during college. Then the Vietnam War blatantly demonstrated the foolish waste of war. The Civil Rights movement instilled hope in many supporting diversities of body, mind and spirit. Truly, I believed the world would be vastly different by now.

My nightmare shows a dried-up field with empty chairs. Loneliness prevails as there are no more discussions or pleasantries. There are no more individuals, free. The atmosphere is a blanket of heaviness representing submission and repression. Clearly, there are no bells of freedom. just the presence of death. And this was just a dream, right?

 

Compassion, Regulated

"I find the best way to love someone is not to change them, but instead,

help them reveal the greatest version of themselves."

Steve Maraboli

Compassion for others has been prevalent throughout my life. It was never a decision or choice; it was just automatically present. It wasn't about feeling sorry for the person but rather seeing a goodness inside of them that needed nurturing and recognition.  There was my desire for them to see the value of their authentic self.

Accepting a person's right to be where they are, knowing that change will occur only if they are ready, assists in maintaining healthy boundaries. There is wisdom in knowing when to step back. A person, ultimately, follows his or her journey alone. They will find their self-worth with or without me.

Unfortunately, there are other scenarios where my compassion runs too deeply and over extension occurs. My own energy field becomes depleted in my efforts to encourage and support. It is difficult to walk away when his or her potential is not yet recognized, but each in our own way, in our own time.  

 

Who Is Listening ...

"Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."

George Bernard Shaw

We gain momentum by looking forward. Stepping into what we do not know can be more fulfilling than remaining stuck in what is familiar. We are no longer who we used to be, so adjustments are necessary. If something is faulty, it will not repair on its own. If we open ourselves to diverse application, a new unfolding can occur.

Granted, there is risk in moving too quickly, but life can become stagnant if we do not move at all. The status of the present moment can be enhanced by consideration of something new. Remember who we are! Believe in our abilities, and gently explore new options, reading about diversity, and altering behaviors.

When we express ourselves, notice who is actually listening. It may be time to seek a different audience.  If a curiosity nags at us, where might it lead? Listen to a podcast, attend a gathering, and experience a new rush of energy. Be open minded and use this space in time for positive improvement! 

 

Hope Beckons

"The body heals. The heart mends. The soul remembers how to hope."

Gentle Healing 

Loss is not singular to death but extends into every area of life. It can be a deep seeded extraction, or a simple misplacement. Grieving is not the same either as we are all unique emotionally based upon our life experiences. Both loss and grieving require a process of restoration of the body, mind and spirit.

Inconsistencies are prevalent in healing. We can have good days, only to regress into a pit of darkness. Often, we are blindsided just when we think we have finally recovered. In anger or discouragement, we may lash out at ourselves for being weak. This, of course, is not the cause at all. 

When sorrow creeps in, we must be patient and kind. We cannot help how we feel. Acknowledge the pain but choose a way to move forward. Pause for prayer, meditation, or movement. Our body heals, our heart mends, and the soul is always filled with hope. Trust in the ability to move forward into a peaceful recovery. 

"Kiss the Ground"

                                                     

"Let the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of

ways to kneel and kiss the ground."

Rumi

This is your life or so they say. How much of your life do you love? What portion of your life do you spend doing what you love to do? And how is it that you believe you have no choice in how this life is unfolding? Notice how you are feeling when you read these questions. Chances are quite good that there is an element of discomfort.

You could create a grid illustrating the pattern of your life. You could use colored pencils to denote times of happiness or trauma. Lines could be realigned to demonstrate times you veered off your path. Then you could make note of what lesson was learned and how much you expanded beyond expectation.

And what of your mindset? Do you speak to yourself with loving kindness or harsh criticism? Does any element of hope remain in your heart, or have you given up? Do not settle as there are hundreds of ways to experience life. Reclaim your vision, return to your path and kiss the ground with joy!

 

Tears ...

 

"Tears are words that need to be written."

Paulo Coelho

Change is not easy for anyone, even when it is welcomed. New situations may be exciting, or they can be nerve wracking. Fear of the unknown, absence of the familiar, and doubting can undermine the best of decisions.  We strive to be above our insecurities and repress our anxiety which then of course impacts us physically.

We may be looking at our dearest friend, inquiring what is wrong. Tears stream down this gentle soul's face while they state, "Nothing." Being honest with the self is taking the best road to mental health. Admitting our fears is not a weakness, but often times a strength. With pen in hand, we can give voice to what we hesitate to speak.

As we release what has been harbored, there is fresh space for new thinking. After venting, we may experience enough clarity that we can deem the situation no longer worthy of our time. Retrieving our energy from negative thinking, we can invest in scenarios where new episodes of adventure can be created. 

Elimination

"If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl,  

but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Numerous roadways open before us. Some have a speeding bypass while others might have a singular dirt lane. There will be twists and turns blocking what lies ahead and perhaps a few dead ends. Bridges under repair may alter our travel pace, and closed exits preempt a timely departure. 

As we commute, reflection is given to the past and speculation applied to the future. If we do not focus, however, upon the present, we may find ourselves driving around in circles. Eliminating old road maps, discarding built up debris and simply cleansing our vision assist in forward movement.

Rather than speeding, slow down the pace to notice what surrounds us. If we do not like the view, create a decorative plan. Change will not happen without taking fresh action. To give closure, reclaims our energy which can then be experienced as empowerment. If we want new outcomes, participation in the journey is imperative. 

 

Light Attracting Light

"An awake heart is like a sky that pours light."

Hafiz

When our hearts are open, we can detect unsettled emotions in others. This does not mean we throw on some magical cape and rescue them. We observe, notice, and send loving light their way. Love takes on numerous forms ... mental, physical, and spiritual. Using your imagination, silently cover them.

Each one of us contains goodness inside and we can formulate a tool that will allow us to share with others. We can do so without a person being aware. We do not need recognition for being a conscientious human. If we are responding to a friend, no words are necessary, just a hefty hug or gentle squeeze of the hand.

When we lose our own footing, there are actions we can take before we fall. Although we may not see it, light surrounds us at all times. Even as we walk into darkness, there is a light presence beside us. Light attracts light so be willing to reach out. There is a phrase that assists us ... "Come into my heart oh God. I love you and need you." (Author unknown) 

Bound Wings ...

 

"You are born to fly, and in dreams you remember the soul has wings."

Robert Moss

When we feel ourselves tightly bound by false pretenses and misguided choices, our wings begin to twitch and quiver. They create pressure against that which binds us intending to trigger awareness. Unfortunately, there are times we misunderstand and continue to endure what was never meant to be.

When we neglect to expand our vision or trust the subtle signs around us, our head hangs low in drudgery.  We no longer see beauty, and we trudge farther away from an intended dream. Perhaps we see stopping as failure and any element of change a weakness. Instead of being a visionary, we have become a victim.

No longer able to withstand the confines of being falsely bound, the wings fiercely expand and set us free. As debris falls from our feathers, the elements escort us to higher ground. From our elevated viewpoint, we remember our soul connection and the ability to stay the course of our dreams, never again settling for less.

Participation Required

"The basic for any approach to self-transformation is an ever increasing

awareness of reality and the shedding of illusions."

Erich Fromm

Participating in a small gathering, an aging woman shared how she was coping with our chaotic world. She said she removed her glasses to alter her vision, took out her hearing aids to soften surrounding noise, and gave her mind to the Divine. She reported that she did not pray, chant or meditate. She simply sat in her place and quietly extended love. 

Some are being judged for not taking action against the violence unfolding around us. But not taking action is not a sign of approval.  When we choose to sit and maintain peaceful light for the world, it contributes to forming alignment. Using violence against violence creates nothing but more atrocities. 

Observing the unfolding danger and not investing in false illusions, we can utilize our inner sense of peace and connection to loving kindness with the world. Physically, we may not be able to do anything, but there is power in our thoughts. Transformation requires participation and we must find our way towards peaceful contribution. 

Tempted to Hide

"Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen."

Brene Brown

There are numerous reasons for not wanting to be seen. It can stem from random misfortune that we have no control over or from circumstances we have set into motion. We do not want to experience disdain displayed in the faces of others or tolerate an opinion that is not based in fact. So, it is tempting to hide.

Choosing to remain private is our prerogative, but to hide in shame is more damaging than we deserve. As we listen to our inner critic, false accusations need to be discarded. As we face the truth of any situation, treating ourselves with loving kindness is respectful and healing. 

We have the inner strength and positive mindset to re-enter life. True friends will listen and support us. Look forward, determining changes that can alter the pressure and stress at hand. Movement will escort us out of darkness and back into the light.  All of the decisions being made today will advance us to a thriving tomorrow. 

Moon Beam ...

"The moon is a friend for the lonesome to talk to."

Carl Sandburg

As a young child, I searched for the moon. It was my one constant even when I could not see it in the sky. I knew it was there, up so very high, simply blocked by clouds floating by. There was an energetic exchange that assured me I would be just fine. My breathing would balance, my heart felt full, and fear slowly dripped away.

The full moon is ramped with high energy which can trigger disturbances beyond repair, and yet, it can shift us towards loving care. At times, we will only pay attention when things are so tumultuous, they can no longer be ignored. We are forced into action as the moon shines brightly upon our despair. 

I like to think of the full moon as a portal in the sky. I visualize ascending into this brilliant light, losing physical form.  It is in this energy that peace abounds, and I believe in life hereafter. And when the time comes that I am no longer here, just look up there! I will be a moon beam just waiting to listen and rekindle light.

 

The Bridge Ahead ...

 

"Some people around you will not understand your journey. They don't 

need to; it's not for them." Paulo Coelho

There are moments where we pause and wonder about our life. Many questions surface about what we have left undone or never ventured forward to explore. Discontent can be felt at any stage of life, and it has nothing to do with success or failure. There is that snippet of unrest that suddenly appears.

Disregard who we were in the past and who we dreamed of becoming. Sit still and inventory who we are right now in this moment. Do we even know? This is not about judgement, but about self-discovery. We need to ask ourselves what we are missing. In solitude, we can recognize this inner longing.

We meet the needs of others, cheer the loudest for our friends, and offer safe space for those in need. Then we ignore personal aspirations. With new vision, there is a bridge waiting up ahead. Will we cross it into new segments of our lives? Will longing be explored? What parts of our lovely selves await our arrival!

Choosing Wisely

"Relationships don't always make sense. Especially from the outside."

Sarah Dessen

Browsing through the library, the shelves are filled with books offering various subject matters. The printed paper may differ as well as the format and font. As an avid reader, one becomes accustomed to the variances. One book may have nothing to do with the other, but deep appreciation may be felt for all.

Relationships are like that. Opposites may attract and some may be as light as a paper bulletin, and others may be heavy in volume. Conversations can bind the deep union though some are quite limited.  Some friends are put on hold, checked out for a weekend, or maintained long overdue. 

Leather bound books were once rare but now can easily be found online. The same can said about formal relationships which are now also explored online. Whether brief acquaintances, friendly encounters or intimate bonds, we get to choose and we must choose wisely ... so many books and so little time!

Distraction

 

"Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body."

Joseph Addison

When is the last time you read something on your favorite subject? Time passes and new information is added which may be quite stimulating. You may find yourself reinvested in topics that have become stagnant. We may also be surprised to discover that our opinions on the subject may have shifted.

We are living in a period of great change addled by heightened activities. The more we try to stop dwelling on things we cannot change, the more obsessive we can become. Getting lost in a book is a perfect way to distract yourself. It entertains the brain while allowing your nervous system a well-deserved rest.

During this frigid weather, we may have less exposure to others. We can begin to feel captive, shut off or isolated. Maybe it is time to explore plans for an imaginary vacation. Research scenarios where there is sunshine and entertainment. Rearrange a room, decluttering as you go. Then end the day with a very favorite book!

Slither No More ...

 

"Just as a snake sheds its skin, we must shed our past over and over again."

Gautama Buddha

The nine-year cycle of the snake is ending and shedding our skin can at first be painful but eventually exhilarating. With unnecessary baggage cleansed away, there is overwhelming freedom found in freshly surfaced energy. No longer obsessed with situations not aligning, we turn to new scenarios that will enhance our earthly experience.

One reconnects with the soul and the desire to balance energies. We turn inward, as we silence our surroundings and embrace the divine within. As we welcome bright healing light into our being, centered inner strength confirms our forward movement. We experience the 'knowing' that we are not advancing alone.

Moving forward, needs are to be aligned with our honest intentions and newly formed boundaries. Respecting our new surge of power, clarity must be maintained, resisting fear that distorts reality. We are entering a new nine-year cycle of the horse, so no more slithering! We must place each foot carefully as our pace is going to increase!

Without Force

"You never have to force anything that's truly meant to be."

Book of Prosperity

Writing at my table, candle lighted, and soft music, I gazed out of my window. It was freezing outside with extremely high winds, and yet, there was the smallest bird sitting in the bush. I couldn't help but wonder about the life of this tiny creature. Were his feet cold, could he find unfrozen water, and did he feel isolated and alone?

What would it be like to face such harsh winds with wings so tiny and frail? Could it be known which branches would be iced over or was there a built-in trust that guided the way? How far could such a little one be from home and for how long? And what was home ... a nest, a box, or a pile of leaves? Was there food?

The small creature turned and looked at me. I wondered if it thought I was caged inside and never escaped out into nature. Was it afraid of me? In the end, my heart prevailed, believing that he was a fellow spirit just showing up to say 'hello'.  Its presence was a simple reminder of our inner connection and how peaceful things are meant to be.

 

Impact of Snow

"Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, but just

look what they can do when they stick together."

Vesta Kelly

The snow is beautiful as it falls, delicately dancing to the ground. As it layers, it gives the earth a pristine blanket, covering all that has become dead in the winter. Within so many, both children and adult, there stirs and excitement of anticipated play. There are snowmen and forts to be made! Grab the sled and we're on our way!

Then there are others who turn to the joy of baking cookies, hot chocolate preparation, and locating the marshmallows. Tea bags are neatly arranged, coffee's brewing, and mugs are scattered across the counter.  Plenty of heavy blankets are unearthed to keep everyone warm, and if there is a fireplace, let's all gather around.

Then questions begin to stir in our hearts. Does our neighbor have enough food? Will the pipes freeze? Is the power going to stay on? Are there enough shelters open for the homeless? And what of the stray animals? For distraction, we turn on the news and there is Minneapolis ... humans trying to stick together. 

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Illusion

"Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without."

Siddhartha Gautama

My New Year's Intention to move forward in each moment continues. There is more energy when one isn't collapsing into the past or venturing too far into the future. When I stop puzzling over things I have no control, there is less confusion, and clarity calms my soul. Both power and peace are returning to me.

A stairwell lined with bricks presented itself with a very steep incline. I was thankful for a guiderail, but the projection into the unknown felt overwhelming. Then I remembered my promise to myself and began the climb, one step at a time. Grief and sorrow lingered on some steps, but joy and laughter were there as well.

Admittedly, the past has caused some slabs to be damaged prompting careful advancement, but indeed, they create an interesting climb. I endeavor to stay true to myself, open to learning, and engaging in peaceful movement. My reactions and projections no longer determine life's moments. Life is an illusion, and I am determined to simply shine.

Without Permission

"Nobody can hurt me without my permission."

Mahatma Gandhi

When we are open to all of our feelings without judgment, they can be addressed and released before they become an emotional upheaval. If we are aware of our inner thoughts, it is easier to monitor and redirect our moods. Listening closely, we can pause and ask if what we are thinking is true or is fear having its way.

Whether we are facing disapproval or rejection, awareness assists in maintaining alignment. If we have stumbled or been less than what is desired, there may be change in our outwardly behaviors. But deep inside, we remain powerful. We have inner strength to recognize needed improvement without devaluing our entire being.

Rather than thinking of failure, reframe with words like mistakes and lessons. It is also necessary to recognize when someone else is falsely projecting misinformation. When we experience pain, reevaluate the situation, explore personal motivation, and decipher truth especially in matters of the heart.

Fire in the Belly

"Love doesn't mean silence or weakness. It means

choosing not to lose yourself while the world is loud."

Gevee Boudreau 

Without the distractions of the holidays, the chaos in our world may seem more intrusive. As we attempt to regroup and balance our routines, stillness may be more challenging to find. We may find it helpful to snatch moments of reprieve throughout the day rather than trying to quarantine our lovely selves for an hour or more.

At the first awareness of angst in the belly or the beginnings of a headache, respect these signals from the body. Step aside and take deep breaths exhaling slowly. Rubbing the base of the skull with shoulder movement can help as well. Check inside to overhear thoughts mindlessly rumbling causing us discomfort.

There are times we get too accustomed to our mind chatter and disregard the damage it does. There may be something we repressed a short while ago that needs to be unearthed and nurtured. All of these are ways we can remain connected to ourselves and not get washed away by undocumented emotion.