"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. 

 

Forever Bonds ...

"There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends.

I have no notion of loving people by halves; it is not my nature."

Jane Austen 

This flame is in honor of those who have been so very dear to me throughout hardship and celebrations. They are the ones who remained true to his or her own path without trying to meet my needs or expectations. I am grateful to have learned through their example of being true to themselves and not out of false allegiance to me.

I may lead for a while. but I have no need for followers. Walk next to me and share what is seen based upon personal perceptions. Expand with personal experiences and let me know what it is that has been learned. Yes, reflect back to me who I am, but more importantly, show me who you are.

This celebration is to honor forever bonds. It is to recognize deep appreciation for the safe space consistently offered to me. The integrity of our connection has been inspirational and life altering. I can only hope that our light will forever shine together helping others not only find his or her way but exceed all expectations. 

 

Articulate with Clarity

"When you give yourself permission to communicate what matters to you

in every situation you will have peace despite rejection or disapproval."

Shannon L. Alder

As we travel through life, barriers will block the way. They are not always meant to create a dead end, but a pause to reevaluate and rest. It is in our silence that new information can present itself. Positioned in a different viewpoint on our path, we may be open to seeing things differently.

It is inevitable that we veer off our path, but there is a lesson in everything. It is important that we do not lug our errors around tainting new possibilities. There is an art to forgiveness which sets us free and returns our power back to us. If there has been judgment or rejection, it must be witnessed and then released.

If emotional needs are not being met or partnerships no longer assisting, there needs to be an exploration of how we are delivering ourselves. If we are articulating with clarity, but no one is paying attention, then perhaps our audience needs to be changed. We have choice and can blame no one but our lovely selves if we are not being heard.

 

Master of Life

 

"You are the master of your life.

Take your power back."

Healing Energy 

It is a small price to pay when we acquiesce to someone we love with intention to make them happy.  If this becomes a habit, however, there will be a price to be paid.  If our loving kindness is not returned in a reciprocal way, we will end up depleted. Acknowledging our right to speak our truth, whether accepted or not, is part of holding ourselves accountable.

We need to be heard, whether right or wrong, as a matter of respect. Those who listen will have a better understanding of who we are which activates a higher level of communication. This is not about having power 'over' someone, but rather about maintaining our right to how we feel, think and contribute.

In relationships, we endeavor to maintain harmony. At work, we strive to be a part of the team. Our intention to be a peaceful component does not include becoming a mere shadow of the self. It is important to be exposed to diversity as a part of healing and growth, but never at the expense of self.

Betrayal

 

"Stop living in defense mode and start letting life

meet you where you are."

Source Messages

Energy invested in projecting an image of whom we are not, is wasted. Any energy that is not supporting who we are in this moment is poorly invested. There is no need to be brash in stand-off actions nor harshly declare our positions. We can enhance ourselves by listening to others with an open mind.

Just because we hear something supported by those we hold in high regard, does not mean it should overtake personal belief. Examine the information and quietly decide if it remains true for us. This doesn't make the other person wrong, but based on our own personal experiences, it may not be right for us.

As we attract experiences and information based on our belief system, there is importance for maintaining clarity. We can tell ourselves, with the information we have right now, this is what we hold to be true. By all means, there are situations where it may be best to say nothing, but never betray what is important to us. 

Puzzle Pieces

"We are the puzzle pieces who seldom fit with other puzzle pieces."

Sasha Cagen

Life is a puzzle, when at times, pieces simply slide together or other sequences when nothing seems to fit! It can be frustrating when we cannot find the exact piece we are looking for. And even when at long last the puzzle appears to be complete, someone can accidently bump into our table, and the puzzle falls back into pieces.

We can attempt to group pieces by color or shape or imprinted design, but the true grouping tends to require deliberate focus. An element of acceptance is needed as not all attempts are successful. One needs to know when to continue to persevere or when to walk away prior to throwing the entire puzzle away.

Not only is it challenging to hold all of our pieces in place, but in courageous times, we may try to link our pieces with other puzzles, hoping to form one big picture. If feeling restrained, we may even want to make an addition to what is already formed. Then we may be tempted to buy a new one or just place them high on a shelf. 

Becoming Conscious ...

"People will do anything, no matter how absurd, in order to avoid

facing their own souls. One does not become enlightened by imagining

figures of light, but by making the dark conscious."

Carl Jung

It is unfortunate that we choose to hide, rather than reach out. Instead of giving fresh air to that which has spoiled, we tend to bury it deeper. It is when we open our door to pain that healing can begin. We cannot always avoid darkness, but if we look carefully, there is always a way to let light in.

When a human being is in crisis, they need to express themselves to someone, whether it be their beloved pet, therapist, or best friend. If we remember that we all hold darkness within us, loving kindness can flow between two souls. It is in the deception of being unworthy that we believe our darkness must be hidden.

If we have been abandoned or betrayed, we may be extremely independent, hiding ourselves. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, hope and receptivity brings light to our healing. When we choose to face our own darkness, the inner flame grows stronger. We realize we are worthy and do not have to face the darkness alone.

Making Headway

 

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of wisdom."

Aristotle

On the one hand, we may find fault with everyone but ourselves. On the other hand, we may singularly blame ourselves for every wrongdoing in life. Our existence is best experienced with curiosity, rather than becoming lost in comfort or pain. When we recognize fear as an indicator of change, we will advance in a more balanced way.

We want to understand and change for a perfect outcome, but first we must recognize what is going on inside of ourselves. What is prompting this situation ... relationship history, perceived imperfection, limited beliefs. Evaluation is necessary prior to taking any action as it is not about personal crucifixion but befriending the self.

When our methods of facing challenge, whether avoidance or repression, are pre-empted by a gentle understanding of who we are, acceptance facilitates an appropriate means of forward movement. With loving kindness, we can escort ourselves forward with clarity and precision that is otherwise overlooked. 

Disclosure

 

"Letting others be wrong about you or a situation while keeping your peace

and focus is the most misunderstood power move you will ever make."

Morgan R. Olivier  

Never ignore or neglect the disturbance of inner peace. At first sign of disruption, try to determine what is provoking us. The cause may be obvious or hidden. Depending on the severity of the situation, we may want to seek professional help or the trusted heart of a friend. Release the pressure and then invest energy into peaceful resolve.

When change becomes obvious to others, our boundaries will be challenged by curious minds. We are never obligated to explain ourselves and a true friend will be present but not push. It is our story, and we choose how much to reveal and to whom. The only person deserving full disclosure is the self.

Aligned with truth, move forward quietly. Embrace the lesson at hand and seek both clarity and healing. When we love ourselves, integrity is maintained and moving forward becomes a new journey. Just as we feel distance or loss as the sun sets, there is knowledge that it will shine brightly once again. 

Not Choosing ...

"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading."

Lao Tzu

Change is not always invited and unfortunately challenges us to face decayed thinking, prior to experiencing a sense of adventure. It does not have regard for our personal timetable and imposes its own cadence. Developing an attitude of trusting the path that is unfolding, we gain a gentle increase in confidence.

The change that occurs is often not of our choosing, creating a sense of loss and overwhelming vulnerability.  When we choose to stay the course, growth unfolds. Decluttered, we are reminded of what is important to us and new ways of using our energy to develop a new way of existing.

As we learn to set a balanced pace, we begin to notice opportunities and how they can be incorporated into our lives. With calm and creativity, change stirs growth preparing forward movement into a better existence. If we do not like the life we are living, go within and reconnect with inner guidance and new perspectives.

 

Just As We Are ...

"When the eyes say one thing, and the tongue another, a practiced man

relies on the language of the first." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

A non-verbal child watches and observes in order to determine safety in surroundings and understand how to navigate based on the sense of a projected mood. In childhood, many become emotional barometers in order to determine how to ensure safety. Decisions in behavior were based on perceptions.

These children, learning how to adapt to environment, learned to hide personal feelings for fear of reprimand. They learned how to wear masks just as pivotal people in their immediate surroundings did. It is called learned behavior. The masks indicate hidden feelings of not being enough or worthy, or valuable.

As adults, masks continue to be worn while desperately seeking healthy connection with others. Safety is a high priority where one imagines stepping out from hiding to simply 'be'. Unfortunately, we can never thoroughly embrace another human until we learn to embrace ourselves, just as we are ... imperfect.

 

Vibes!

"The energy of the mind is the essence of life."

Aristotle 

Instead of thinking about our energy in terms of negative or positive emotions, let's redefine it as personal power. Our energy can indicate change, intuition, awareness and direction. At any time, we can choose to be still and recalibrate our energy field. When we feel disharmony, we can make choices to return to balance, both internally and externally.

When our energy is flowing, we experience bliss, whereas, when it is repressed, there can be fear. In either situation, an immediate reaction is not the best choice. Be still inside, assessing what is triggering our sense of being. Determine if it is our surrounding or internal landscape, rather than impulsive overreacting. 

Our bodies are made of energy, so it makes sense to understand how to manipulate it. When out of balance, quietly restore it by seeking light whether from a candle, the sun or moon. Develop a connection with a spiritual energy source and we can readily return to harmony. When we establish our sense of energy, life blends striving for a peaceful vibration.

Stepping Out

"My wish for you is that you continue to be with and how you are."

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou encourages us to align our inner spirit with outer persona. She asks us to step out from behind our projected images and to remove our masks. Instead of hiding our quirks, we are invited to show them to the world with pride. Rather than settling, we are encouraged to explore more and add creative layers to who we have already become.

Reserve private time to visualize how we could expand and deepen our human experience here on earth. Then stretch the imagination to uncover ways to facilitate a way to manifest this desired growth. Hold the vision in the mind's eye and visit it frequently. Allow excitement to gather and push us forward.

Be patient in each moment, remembering that life is a process. It is a journey with twists and turns. Veering off into unmarked terrain can offer us peace and tranquility, before moving forward again. Continue to add description to the image we keep nurturing in our mind. Remember, what we perceive, we can receive.  

 

Vision Inside or Outside?

 

"Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart.

Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside awakes."

Carl Jung

When we experience stillness within, we have learned to quiet the monkey brain and place ego across the room on a chair. We have increased our ability to accept who we are, how we act, and be accountable. We can watch our old patterns float across our mind's eye and make the choice to change.

Where has being a victim taken us other than avoidance and repression? Has there been any satisfying advancement in being small? The effort we put into holding space for those we love, does it match the investment we make in ourselves? If we are not setting boundaries for others to respect, how will they know how to treat us?

Peace begins within. It is time to weed our emotional gardens, giving space for new seeds of self-respect and personal enhancement. In stillness, we rediscover our true essence which sets the stage for creative rebirth. Just lifting our awareness to our true nature triggers a new sense of power. Awaken as you look inside and begin again.