Speaking Our Truth

 

"The life meant for you will not require you to abandon yourself to keep it."

Wise Woman Warrior 

There may be parts of the self that need some nurturing or adjustment. If someone however is adamant about altering our values or presence in the world, exploring motivation is beneficial. We have numerous parts to our self as differing situations may require specific aspects from within the whole.

We may be a leader in one season or a follower in another, but our inner essence deserves to be the same. No matter what the task before us that our personality is adjusting to, aught not require our inner spirit to be diminished.  We can reach for the high note or lower our tone but never silence the essence within.

There comes a point in life when we quit changing masks. Spiritual presence aligns with the  physical adjusting only the boundaries. There is great comfort in being able to be basically the same person in every situation. Some may receive a little higher or lower tone, but the voice is consistently speaking our truth. 

Being Alone In Darkness

"Even the darkest night will end, and the sun will rise."

Victor Hugo 

For some of us, we have always been in the dark and not always by personal choice. We may have had options, but nothing effective enough to allow the light to come in. If life is truly hard, sometimes it seems as though remaining in the dark where we know the pitfalls are more appealing than learning and embracing bright lights.

The first time we slide down the chute into darkness, one isn't aware if we'll ever get out. With repetition, we can be aware there is an exit but become paralyzed in fear. There can be a moment when we glance upwards and catch a glimpse of a light that seems to resonate within us. Hope is kindled and we begin to navigate towards the light above.

Often times, the people who have lingered alone in the darkness can become the brightest shining light. Having experienced extreme blackness, they are drawn towards the uplifting resonance of illumination. One quick glimpse of radiance is enough to lure the dark soul out of the shadows. All the more reason to keep out light shining.  

Hanging On ...

"Some of us think holding on makes us strong but sometimes it is letting go."   Herman Hesse 

There are so many options to life, it is quite exciting when one appears when we least expect it. We may have been yearning for a change but may become overwhelmed when it appears. We may be worried about having the strength to reveal our plans to others or question our ability to stand before other's criticism.

We have the unfortunate tendency to hang on to what we know rather than risking adventure. We may desire to hang on to what we have until a perfect scenario arrives all wrapped up in a perfect package. The truth is we do not have to jump ship all at once. We can release the need to rush and let things unfold.

The Universe really is quite good at providing us with gifts, even though many of them go unnoticed. When aware, we slowly gather tidbits that when gathered together begin to form a reasonable plan. There is no rush, no race, but rather a well-paced gait towards a door that slowly opens. 

Open ...

"Your assumptions are your windows on the world. Scrub them off every once

in a while, or the light won't come in."

Alan Alda 

Life might be perfect with every thought in place. We may have security that allows us to enjoy every day. What if, however, we open ourselves just one more time for exploration? Scan over the past and notice if there are any lofty aspirations that we backed away from. Maybe we deserve one more go around with the dance of creativity.

We may have left a dream behind out of fear of failure or the timing may have been off. We could have questioned our skills or listened too closely to nay-sayers. Perhaps we pushed it into our future not realizing that the future is right here. Whatever comes up ... a person, skill or experience, consider revisiting possibilities.

We fear disappointment, but regret bares its own heaviness. If we open ourselves in today's world, our perception and drive may be different from years ago. We have faced challenges and adapted to scenarios around us. Now it may be time to open to an element of risk to experience a dream come true!

Proceed With Change

 

"Things do not change. We change."

Henry David Thoreau 

To proceed in life, we are asked to be flexible and adjust accordingly. Our perspectives may not be in accordance with what is open to us. In learning experiences, we are asked to adapt what we have been taught. All of this is reasonable, but if we feel that our values are being lowered, we truly need to step back with new assessments.

If a situation pops up in the middle of our life, it is there for a reason. We waste our energy by being defensive, so stand back to figure out what is to be learned. In any learning experience, it is best to enter with a clear mind, open to diverse lessons. Sometimes, we really do not realize the full impact of a situation until later.

When faced with a challenge, whether personal, social or professional, if it feels uncomfortable like it will require a change in our integrity, there needs to be a pause. Lessons change us, isn't that the point? But never will we better ourselves if we are asked to be lesser than who we have struggled to become.

Response to Encounter

 

"Things do not change. We change."

Henry David Thoreau

What do we want to call that inner dark spot of ourselves? Do we say spirit, soul, heart, divine, ego ... the list could go on. But this tight spot within monitors all of the energy extending from us, coming into us, or simply being still. It is this source within that determines change. Change is a reaction we choose in response to all that is around un.

We may choose change based on self-doubt, fear, or creative passion. Reactions are determined not by what we encounter, but how we respond to the encounter. The presentation can be of a positive nature or an impulsive negative nudge, but neither will be activated unless we individually choose.

If we do not choose, then life might be happening to us. Doing nothing is a response and our life itself is an animation not reality. Perhaps a good point to start is to ask our lovely selves why we are not choosing? What we have drawn to us may be totally unstimulating or defeating. Perhaps it is time to change the channel ... look for new scenarios, now. 

"Many Lives, Many Masters," Dr. Brian Weiss

 

"The Universe will place strangers in your life to take you to higher places."

Minions World

Dr. Brian Weiss's book, "Many Lives, Many Masters" is a remarkable resource for exploring accounts of past life regression. In the 1980's, I became familiar with him after deep dives with authors like Dr. Raymond Moody, Dr. Elizabeth Kubler Ross, and Helen Wamback. One may wonder how depressing this subject might be, but actually, it is quite liberating!

The focus does not have to be on documentation, although important, but about content. These authors continuously broadened my concept about death and dying. I found this subject to be enlightening, assuring me that there is much more to life than being made in the USA.  All previously preached brain washing simply faded away.

With broadened understanding, strangers became intriguing rather than circumspect. In time, I would realize that strangers were frequently spiritual relations from repeated lifetimes together. Everyone we meet has a message, not always positive, but nevertheless, information linking all of life together upon higher ground.

Continuously Moving

"Thousands have lived without love, not one without water."

W. H. Auden

Born in Chicago, I grew up by Lake Michigan, having access to water year around. Although I did learn to ice skate on it, its presence was one of a comforting rhythm, a cleansing affect, and connection with nature. Rushing to shore, water presented the strength to repeatedly rise and fall in spite of a current.

With its resilience, water sustains life and can adapt to any container imaginable. It represents clarity and welcomes deeper depths of exploration. Water connects with all things reflecting unity. It symbolizes ability to be both strong and calm. Offering serenity and balance, a sense of refresh and renew lifts the spirit.

Spiritually, water is highly significant to me. It symbolizes emotions, purity and cleansing. It is a constant in cultural and religious traditions. It reflects the power to continuously move forward in spite of any current trying to impede progress. It was always available to me ... no fee or membership, available in all seasons, and present in all stages of my unfolding.

Response to Life

"Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it."

Lou Holtz

Even when we are carefully prepared, we can be caught off guard by people, places, or things. The amount of stress that occurs depends upon our reaction. Our attitude impacts the decisions we make. If we believe that life is happening to us, we may feel attacked; whereas, if we think that life is offering another lesson, we may feel curious.

Whether we believe we are a victim or a student of life, stress can still impact us. When it is not appropriately addressed, the case scenario can spiral out of control between making poor choices or no decisions at all. The first step is pivotal to the process. It is best if we can choose to stay in the moment and maintain positive thinking.

First, we can explore our options.  We can create a plan to move us towards the best option. Then we can detail what tools we may need whether it is physical instruments or carefully gathered information. Then we can address and resolve the issue. In the meantime, releasing the stress through meditation, workouts, or therapy increases our success.

 

Near Death Experiences

 

"What happens when we die? That is probably the most

often asked and perplexing question."

Raymond A. Moody, Jr.

In the early 1980's I read a book by Raymond A. Moody entitled "Life Ater Life."  It deeply broadened my viewpoint about death and dying. With documentation, Dr. Moody shared numerous incidents of near-death experiences (NDE) which professionals early on deemed as mental illness. 

Near Death Experiences occur when a person has a medical emergency such as a heart attack and is medically declared dead. The doctor has a medical report he shares with family or others in the room with the deceased. Unknown to them, the 'deceased' is having an out of body experience.

When the 'deceased' returns to his or her body, they report accurately everything said and who was present during the time they were declared dead. While they had been out of the body, they were in a silent communication with a 'light being' and others. Curious? "Life After Life" or "The Light Beyond" by Dr. Moody are excellent resources.

When the Fire is Out

 

"When there is a big disappointment, we don't know if that's the end

of the story. It may be the beginning of a great adventure."

Pema Chodron

Once a spark or wrongful fuel ignites flames burning in the heart, both good and challenging memories go up in smoke. Tolerating the heat, we dig through the rubble. Smoldering sorrows begin to leave scars that will never really heal. We may question what will be left in the remaining ashes.

There is no greater healer than time. Like the passing of seasons, our emotional makeup shifts alternating between forward and backward movements. One moment we may be thinking we are doing exceptionally well but then traces of smoke floating in the air trigger our memories to when we seemingly lost it all.

Our repressed thoughts eventually surface, and we choose whether they are an accelerant for additional pain or a fresh step towards inner peace. Determining the lesson, which was to be learned, accepting responsibility for the part we played, we willingly move forward. Refreshed, our senses are eager to find happiness again, relieved as the fire is finally out.

Image of Friendship

"A friend is someone who knows all about you and still loves you."

Elbert Hubbard

Two women sat on a bench, barely speaking. They were spending time together in loving silence. They had been friends for so long, it seemed thoughts were shared without any need for conversations. An animated child would skip by, and the two women watched the little tike and then with pure joy, exchanged smiles and laughter.

As times change, men are experiencing deeper relationships, and the experience of bonding sets a significant example for others. When time is taken to experience one other, whether male or female or a mix, blessings and lessons are bountiful. Books can be best friends, but there is nothing like a hug from a favorite human!

The image of friendship being like a sheltering tree speaks volumes. It sees us through seasons of life, endures troubling weather, and although colorful, parts are eventually shed. Tree roots are very deep and persistently share with neighboring trees. When we look back over our life, we may see a forest of friendships.

                      

Messages of Inspiration

 

“Just because you cannot hear an answer doesn’t mean one isn’t coming.”

Messages are sent to us on a regular basis. Often we are not paying attention or we are projecting that a response will look a certain way. This must be annoying to Spirit. Perhaps we are hoping to win the lottery, meet a mystery lover, or experience a physical bodily change. In reality, these rarely happen as change nudges us internally.

A random thought pops up in our head and if we take the time to speculate what it pertains to, we might just start an adventure. While reading a book, the subject matter triggers ideas about a project. We may be in a coffee shop and overhear a conversation that reawakens an old dream. Whatever the instance, the importance is to follow through with action.

If the suggestion is too grand for now, break it down into a progressing plan. Use imagination to facilitate an exciting end result. If we are clueless, sit in silence and Spirit can send expanded illustrations or encouragement or out of the box ideas to enable us to proceed. The keys are paying attention and follow through.

Peace or Silence

 

“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself.”  Rumi

Keeping peace does not mean swallowing your truth or avoiding conflict. What we repress begins to show up in physical discomfort … clenched jaw, pounding headache, anxiety and so on. This is not peace; it is a form of silence stifling our true self. Tension flows over into healthy relationships creating further discord. We then discover that we are disappearing.

From an early age, we believe that silence is respectful and in certain situations it can be. But we can address conflict in an honorable way using our voice. Phrases such as I feel or I believe is a reflection of the self. We are not preaching, simply reflecting our thoughts. We can use a neutral voice sharing our perspective and avoid a challenging atmosphere.

Peace is maintained by continuously being in touch with our own presence. Do we even know what we believe or are we allowing others to dictate how we feel? It is best to listen to others' opinions without judgement. Peace is fueled by updating perspectives and releasing what we have outgrown. When we are at peace with ourselves, we can thrive in our silence.

Color of Nature

 

“Nature always wears the color of Spirit.” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Recently, I was blessed to be taken on a surprise getaway. The first part of the trip, I drove in solitude thinking of all the years I had traveled this road. I greeted the tall and sturdy trees lining both sides of the interstate knowing they had faced fires, ice, and general neglect. They greeted me like Spirit’s private angels.

The second part, Spirit sang to me through the waves of the ocean. Mesmerized by the consistent motion of the water and cleansing sounds, I was lulled into a deep peace. I could feel my body unfold as I embraced the waves as though each one were an old friend, rushing to hug and love me.

The last part, I was hugged by the sun. Sand crusted on my feet while salt water dried on my lips. My eyes teared watching my loved ones play. So many years I have loved these humans, knowing our life times had crossed before. Generations bonding together creating the best colors of nature … spiritual peace and love.

Layers

 “Faith means living with uncertainty, feeling your way through life, letting your heart guide your life like a lantern in the park.”  Dan Millman  

It does not matter how good of a person we are, troubling challenges happen. To be a part of the human experience includes the ability to navigate hardship. If we make bad choices, we will have a negative experience. If we react with kind heartedness, the challenge is the same, but the result may not lead us into victimhood.

Allowing fear to distract us from having faith in our skills and abilities cripples our endeavors. If we backslide into memories of past mishaps, our inner energies will not be used for moving forward. Life is a process meant to be a collection of lessons learned through trial and error. Maintaining awareness of our patterns of behavior assists in positive progression. 

When we maintain a spiritual connection in both good and challenging times, communication flows with inspiration for problem solving. Healing may come in stages but each one will be forming a healthy layer to support us. Trust that spirit will lead us out of darkness, lighting the way to a healthy and productive life beyond current distractions.

Belonging In Nature

"Nature is a mirror, inspiring us, teaching us, and deepening our 

sense of belonging in the world."

Madisyn Taylor

We are naturally drawn to nature whether we see a tiny bird perched in a tree or a sly fox scampering across the road. Unfortunately, we utilize the delight found in nature on neighborhood walks or on the weekend get-a-way. But nature is always present, waiting for us to notice the depth, beauty and peace awaiting us.

Nature can be experienced in the rush of white-water rafting or meditating outside in a garden. There is magic in the stars and moon and brilliant wonder in illuminating sunshine or the grace of the setting sun. There is inspiration in the unfolding of the budded flower or the ripening of the fruit hanging from its vine.

There is inspiration waiting throughout nature. Birds protect and feed their babies in a nest and mama bears settle their cubs in a disclosed cave. Hummingbirds illustrate patience and control while caterpillars shed to unfold into the flight of the butterfly. And humans, they exchange tenderness caring for all aspects of nature discovering deep connection.

 

Strength in Vulnerability

 

          “We often think that vulnerability is a kind of weakness, but there’s a kind of              vulnerability that is actually strength and presence.” Ram Dass

If we are fear based we consistently maintain watch for things going wrong or people taking advantage of us. We may hide and project what we believe others to want or need from us. If we believe in ourselves and ability to navigate in life, we can choose to hold ourselves open to the gifts of others and to experiences enriching our lives.

Being open does not mean to be stupidly open, but ability to be flexible with our boundaries. The more we embrace the unknown we not only learn, we open to deeper meanings. Rather than being stuck in automatic pilot, there is room to slow down for new landscapes and developing perceptions.

Being vulnerable means we do not know all of the answers and remain brave enough to discover what we do know might not be completely accurate. Holding ourselves open, we can grow stronger in our own sense of self and determine how to release and gain higher knowledge to truly become who we have always been meant to be.

Keys Open Doors

 

"Don't give up. Normally it is the last key on the right which opens the door."

Paulo Coelho

Even when our hands hold the keys to all of the doors we need to open, locks can get jammed or changed. We may feel as though we obtain all of the power needed to be attained for successful living, and yet chances are good we are wrong. There are scenarios where our future shifts just because we lost one key element.

Digging through the junk drawer, we may come across a key ring that has numerous keys. Some look familiar but we cannot remember exactly what they open. The same is true of our thoughts lodged in our memories. Once they may have seemed vital, but now we cannot recall their significance. 

We may have found numerous keys throughout our life. with some opening to opportunity while others opened to grief and sorrow. Then unexpectedly, a key turns a lock to the unexpected and goodness comes flooding in. The importance of having keys is finding what they unlock and how to unlock it!

FULL BUCK Moon

"The Full Buck Moon symbolizes growth and gaining inner strength

to overcome difficult obstacles."

Amber Mitchell

Human beings can be resilient. In times of emergency, people have been known to do remarkable things that they would never seem to do in day-to-day life. Certain individuals may lead a lack-luster life until they discover their passion which triggers exceptional exerted energy. 

The full Buck Moon symbolizes growth and gaining inner strength to overcome obstacles and achieving difficult goals. It is a time to remember our personal power and vitality. Challenges are not meant to stop us, but to inspire us to pursue solutions resulting in a higher sense of accomplishments.

This may be a good time to sit with our inner selves and evaluate our interests and productivity. We can inventory what clutter needs to be cleared so that new inspiration can come through. When we explore our true nature, we are reminded that we are capable of doing so much more than just living a mediocre life. 

Found Gifts

 

"In the tapestry of life, we're all connected. Each one of us is a gift to those around 

us helping each other be who we are, weaving a perfect picture together."

Anita Moorjani

Growing up in Chicago, diversity was a given. Various churches, dwellings, food options and languages. It was quite obvious that people were different. No one really dressed the same and there were a very broad range of interests. This is not to say there weren't slurs, inappropriate actions and imaginary divides.

Walking down a city street, it was very unlikely to see someone you knew. Perhaps this was where I developed the habit of looking into people's faces. Curious of the variety of people, wondering where they came from and where they were going flooded my mind. Besides, it was always good be aware of those around you.

I believe life is like a tapestry of varied colored threads. At the heart of the matter, I sense there are strong connections between all strangers, just waiting to be discovered. If we would seek similarities or remarkable artistic and skillful differences, our lives would be filled with amazing gifts found in each other.

• 
  

Not Quite the Same ...

"In reality, we are still children. We want to find a playmate

for our thoughts and feelings."

Wilheim Stekel 

There is such freedom in childhood activities and less stress interacting with friends. It is not like a club where you have to complete an entry form and pay for access. Whether you shoot a few hoops or cool off on the swing, there a very few formalities.

When we change locations or retire, some of our associates may not make the shift with us. As we engage with new interests we meet more like-minded people. No dress codes and previous employment may not necessarily be an asset. 

Just sitting on the porch with a cool night's breeze, our mind wanders back to the squeals of laughter, running through the spray of a hose, or a simple game of hide and seek. Somehow joining the YMCA just isn't quite the same.  

Meeting of the Minds

"The most important person you meet in life is your highest self."

Matshona Dhliwayo 

During a Reiki training, my Reiki Master Morris asked if we knew the definition of a guru. Several responded with flowing description. Then he shared his definition ... gee, you, are you. There was no mistake in that he never held one person above another. He believed we each had something to learn as well as share.

There is great comfort in exchanging knowledge with others, but they are not to be worshipped. An enlightened human never pontificates himself or herself. They teach and share with the intention of assisting us reach stronger connections with our higher selves. With the recognition of our higher self, we will be propelled forward. 

There are those I hold in the highest esteem and feel humbled by his or her presence. But this is not to diminish myself. I may not have their gifts, but I do have my own. It is the blending together where the meeting of the minds elevates individual contribution impacting the life of all peoples in united peace and goodwill.

Breaking Regulation

"Whatever you are not changing you are choosing."

Laurie Buchanan 

We are born with guard rails on our crib, fences in the yard, and boundaries implanted in our baby minds. We are raised with rules, family patterns and structures to keep us safe. In time, we accept the limitations of being boxed in. We actually become uncomfortable if we do not establish railings on either side.

One day the confines finally feel just too tight and the urge to break out demands attention. Where do we begin our expansion? Do we defy authority, break a dress code, run away emotionally or kick down that which binds us? There is a feeling of being just too small and our energy surges.

Exiting whatever tunnel there may have been, we find an opening at the end leading to expansion. As our heart is set free, our mind is flooded with artistic expression, and our souls are lifted into a lofty surge. We may ponder "who am I".  And isn't that just the point ... realization that we are so much more and exciting choices need to be made.

 

Going Solo

"It is easy to stand with the crowd.

It takes courage to stand alone."

Mahatma Gandhi

We become exhausted while trying to hold the world up alone. Extending our emotional or financial resources without collaboration, the inevitable happens ... we run dry. If we are continuously over giving, perhaps it is time to review our motives. Do we not believe we can gain what we need by simply being ourselves?

In the spiritual sense, we may be overdoing our generosity subconsciously hoping to be revered or to save another soul. The best way, perhaps, to help others is by simply being ourselves in the presence of their challenge. People will only learn and change when they are ready to do so, regardless of our overextending.

If we disengage from the maddening crowds that no longer inspire, we can better ourselves by going solo. Whether it is a change in relationship or profession, a designated weekend retreat will heal and restore. One must find the courage to stand alone in sacred space to reinvest in the personal journey of the sacred soul. 

 

Circles ...

"The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are."

C S Lewis

Being present in a circle, there is comfort in movement around the area with no one behind or in front. Individuals each have a turn to express themselves. The circle can band together closer or expand to accommodate change.  There is beauty in the sharing of knowledge for reaching joint conclusions.

There are sewing circles, knitting or crocheting circles, prayer circles and dream circles, to mention just a few. Drum Circles allow each person to participate, and each beat tends to eventually blend into a compatible rhythm within the circle. The same might hold true for a council meeting sharing ideas to form one consensus. 

Working in a circle takes pressure off one person determining the outcome. Each person has the chance to express his or her knowledge which then can be combined with the wisdom of others. No one is sitting behind and no one is placed in front. It seems to be the optimum shape for all voices to be heard with combined outcome. 

Right Where You Are ...

 

"Do your little bit of good where you are; it those little bits of good put together 

that will overwhelm the world."

Desmond Tutu

It is important to look upon ourselves with compassion. As human beings, life is about trial and error or light verses darkness. As we fuel ourselves with good thoughts and deeds, we will be less likely to stumble when we are faced with challenge. We become empowered by learning the lesson whether we are right or wrong. 

When we align our actions with integrity and remain motivated by spiritual intentions, our conversations and behaviors reveal our identity. Living how we want to be with an open heart is not easy, but the rewards heal the body, mind and soul. Our positive contributions impact the lives of many who we may never know.

We can endeavor to not be distracted by the chaos in our world. We can hold positive thoughts and creative expectations when we are faced with diversity in thought, word, and deed. As we lavish love on others, it is imperative to bathe ourselves in it as well. We all equal perhaps in ways that are never apparent. 

 

Repetition in the Mind

"You suffer more from the story you repeat in your mind

than from the event itself. Let it go and become free."

Buddhism

Numerous times, negative events happen. Conversations might be over shared, or criticisms unintentionally overheard. Maybe we replied with anger, acted out or repressed the experience. Almost immediately, we begin to ruminate. Round and round our thoughts circle, replaying how we might have reacted in other ways.

Depending upon severity, our anger or hurt feelings may grow deeper. We may fall back through the past recalling similar situations. Spiraling, the initial event can be blown completely out of proportion. This creates not only mental fatigue, but also triggers tension within our body.

It is unfortunate that we talk to ourselves in manners that we would never speak to others. To initiate relief, we can choose to go to a favorite peaceful place or meditate to calm our spirit. Release can be found through journaling or other creative endeavors. The goal is to respect the self by counterbalancing negative emotions and becoming free.

 

Creating New Stages in Life

"What is necessary to change a person is to change his awareness of himself."

Abraham Maslow

It is challenging to change oneself if one does not know himself. As we move through stages of our lives, our interests and desires might shift. Dreams will not materialize if we do not acknowledge or invest our time and creativity into action. When a new opportunity presents itself, it is best to take advantage and explore.

We may be bored with our lovely selves and no longer have ways of highlighting our interests. This can lead to depression or abusive behaviors. With new eyes, look into the community to discover classes, groups, and volunteering to polish our skills.

We may feel silly if we express an interest in one of the arts. We may tell ourselves that our lack of skill may embarrass us. What if we try and succeed? What if the gain is meeting a new friend? There is significant chance that exposing ourselves to something new, our sense of worth will increase. Nothing to lose, and lots to gain! 

 

Offensive Remarks

"When someone drops an inappropriate comment, your body's internal alarm

system goes off instantly. You might find your heart races, your face flushes, and

every fiber of your being wants to either flee or fight back immediately."

psyche

If you choose to remain silent when someone has offended you, you are disrespecting yourself. There are numerous ways to face this situation with dignity remaining intact. The best way to put a stop to the abusive or insensitive conversation is to turn to them and ask, "What makes you ask such a thing?" Motivation becomes clear.

In other scenarios, the speaker may not be aware of their insensitivity. Jefferson Fisher suggests these responses: 1. How do you feel when you say that? 2. I'm surprised you would say that out loud! and 3. Did you mean for that to sound so _____? The attention returns to the speaker and holds them accountable.

We can stay calm and ask for clarification. We can state that we do not discuss this issue and change the subject and turn away. It is probably wise not to try to educate the person at this time. It may lead to further disrespectful involvement. "What other people say about me is none of my business." (Erma Bombeck)