Requirements

"We accept the love we think we deserve."

Stephen Chbosky

We hold ourselves accountable offering assistance with loving kindness. We do not monitor what is reciprocated as that is not why we give. If boundaries are not respected, we offer forgiveness. Excuses are then made for others. Then we become aware that we have given so much with nothing in return, that we are depleted.

The inner voice whispers, "what are you doing?" but we choose to ignore it. Then life presents mirrors, but we believe they are distortions and surely not us. Joy is dissipating and tears are shedding. We use voice, but our words are not responded to which minimizes our sense of self.

There is a false belief about being lovable when we are a certain way, when we are lovable just as we happen to be. Yes, we can all stand improvement, but a complete makeover to meet someone else's needs is despicable. If we love ourselves first, additional affection contributes to wholeness. Respect personal value and others will follow.

Disrobing ...

"The more of me I be, 

The clearer I can see."

Rachel Andrews

Remove caps and gowns from educational achievements and set aside special titles from professional and personal roles. Place drapes over all mirrors and position photos face down. Unfasten clothing that projects a certain image and remove the self from all fanfare. Stripped to the core, there is only authenticity. 

Our true identity aught not be defined by things outside of ourselves. Investments are best made when they are utilized for building our core. Defining our inner strengths, purpose and desires, assists in choices bringing clarity into the human experience. Embracing wisdom, one is ready to initiate a difference in the world.

When energy is no longer scattered by seeking acceptance, personal drive and expectations attract opportunities to further the goal. The inner spirit thrives with clarity and impact stimulates others. With an uncluttered body, mind, and spirit, life remains challenging, but we face it with originality producing both fulfillment and joy.

 

Backslide

"The ability to let that which does not matter truly slide."

Chuck Palahniuk

Carefully, I place my feet upon each step and keep my gaze to all that is above ... seen and unseen. I hold trust in my heart when the spiral bends and I can no longer have the vision I desire. Slowly, I move upwards, dedicated to the climb. Awareness remains, however, that at any given moment there may be a backslide.

Entering darkness is familiar to me and the hardest part is realizing, once again, an old pattern has tripped me up. I hold myself accountable, and there is where the darkness is ... self-criticism and personal judgment. Then there are the lapses in the dark filled with images of being the victim and being burned by the fire. 

Eventually, I remember that this is yet another attempt to break my pattern. There is no right nor wrong, just the lesson at hand. When clarity produces greater insight, I am able to move upward on the spiral again. Negativity slides away making room for this new wisdom to lead me upwards, back on my way.

Introspection

"If my life is going to mean anything, I have to live it myself."

Rick Riordan

If we are a spark of Divine Light and reflect individual uniqueness, why do we try so hard to be like everyone else? Even when we enjoy living the dream of one other, what happens to the vision given specifically to us? We may resemble each other physically, and share interests, but we are uniquely born drenched in diversity.

When we gather with others, there is a collective energy that can deepen our experiences. We are open to receiving guidance. As a whole, we can pool these messages under one title, but the application needs to be individual. The reward is moving forward together, but in our own authentic way.

Foreshadowing of a miracle may be a flash of terror to someone else. Our perceptions are based on our own experiences. Our learning advances when information is shared, but ultimately, personal introspection is key. We expand our understanding by joining together, but personal growth depends upon personalized application. 

 

Unaware

"Only I can change my life. No one can do it for me."

Carol Burnett

We have a loose plan for the next day. It is not rigid and it does have flexibility, but intentions have been set. When we get up the next morning, there is a sensation stirring in our belly that makes us question our plans. Intuitively, we feel there a need to change our plans, and simply stay at home.

There is no fear or sense of threat. It feels like we are being guided to remain still. We settle in with a positive reframe and enjoy the day as it unfolds. There is no emergency at home, and not one drop in guest. We cannot help but wonder what we have missed. Did we avoid an accident, or had we been needed to hold our energy in place?

Divine Spirit has a grand view and a deep plan for which we are unaware.  It is important to have trust that we are always exactly where we need to be. We can resist as we have free will but imagine how fluent and flowing our lessons will be if we truly listen and comply. Sit with a cup of tea and ponder just how willing we are to change.

 

Consequences

"The content of your character is your choice. Day by day, 

what you choose, what you think, and what you do is who you become."

Heraclitus 

When our mind is filled with darkness, it is hard to remember we can choose other thoughts. We can alter subject matters, and the mental picture changes. Our line of thinking is governed by our subconscious and conscious ideas. We are also impacted by our surroundings such as the environment we create.

Right now, our actions are reflecting who we are. Every day we are faced with decisions that impact our character whether they are observed or unnoticed. If we heighten our goals and enhance our skills, our presence attracts situations where we can be authentically present. We will evolve into how we want to be seen.

Life is not easy and making the choice to change we require energy, will power, and a loving image of ourselves. When we feed our desires, and nurture our soul, a true sense of self thrives. If we do not like how we present, then use personal control to utilize change. We have choice to be exactly how we yearn to be. 

Hidden Scar ...

 

"A scar is what happens when the word is made flesh."

Leonard Cohen 

People tend to hide their scars with extended antlers to detect incoming harm. We forget that to be human, there are lessons, and every person experiences wounds. It is unfortunate when we cling to the 'me against them' attitude rather than pooling group experiences. Accumulated information could heighten healing awareness.

We are better prepared when we see situations through the eyes of healing, not a stance of defense. If we keep ourselves limited with the intention of control, numerous experiences that increase forgiveness, and insight are overlooked. Trust is earned, but not everyone is out to get us!

The scars we hide can hinder us. Our stories are not meant for everyone's ears, but there needs to be a balance. We are all wounded in one way or another which impacts our presence. Our perceptions are colored by personal experience, and we can learn from each other. Differences can be linked rather than used for division.

 

Spring Equinox, Finally

 

"There's so much spring in the air ... there's so much lazy sweetness in your heart."

F. Scott Fitzgerald 

All that has been pent up throughout the winter, can now be released. Fresh energy can circulate restoring a sense of joy. It is as though Spring calls into the hearts of humans to wander outside and begin to dream! We can feel hope and joy flood our hearts and we are filled with anticipation for goodness.

For some there will be a passion for gardening while for others it will be a lust for wandering. The vital ingredient is to be outside breathing in fresh air and connecting with the season of spring. We are newly energized with a sense of freedom in our thoughts, words, and deeds.

We can imagine ourselves as a house, throwing open windows, eliminating built up trash, and stimulating new arrangements. This is our new chance for change, and we must choose to take action. Get outside and dream or be still noticing flowing ideas. When we trust enough to open our hearts, a new season begins.

Appreciation Not Expectation

 

"My thoughts come and go. My emotions rise and fall."

Meditate and Love 

When we release our efforts to control and simply choose to be present, there is a relaxed space to dwell. In this stillness without judgment, opinions are not required. When we balance our six senses rather than mainlining thoughts, there is input that soothes the soul. There comes a peace where we can just be.

Staying in the moment allows us to appreciate what is right before us. We experience gratitude for what we have rather than longing for what is not ours. Emotions will continue to rise, and fear will try hard for our attention, but if we stay the course forward movement increases the life experience.

Our simple focus allows us to continue into the unknown trusting that joy and fulfillment will return after sorrow. Courage is needed to progress but most importantly paying attention is necessary. Catch the wandering critic before it invades. Acknowledge negativity but then let it go. Gravitate towards the good, knowing that it will unfold.

Without Knowing ...

 

"None of us knows what might happen even the next minute,

yet still we go forward. Because we trust."

Paulo Coelho 

We trust that the tight tulip bulb will open with lovely pastels, and that the sun will rise and the moon will shine. So why do we not have the same element of trust in our lovely selves? Rather than making a decision, trusting in our judgment, we will avoid a situation. Not trusting in surrounding opportunities, we keep our selves small.

There is a calm prior to every storm meant to be enjoyed. Too often we spend this time pulling on galoshes, finding the umbrella, and preparing for disaster. We live in fear rather than unfolding with the natural flow. Not trusting, we push, pull, and manipulate. We race rather than trusting all will unfold.

Releasing the obsession to control, we can stand present in the moment, using our awareness to appreciate the good waiting to be discovered. We can step off the beaten path, choose diverse ways to create, while trusting our inner inspirations. There is a need to complete our lessons, trusting they enhance our life experience. 

Eruption as a Segment

"It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see."

Henry David Thoreau

Misery leads to suffering, but we have the ability to choose between a moment of reflection or an overwhelming status of pain. When we realize the presence of hurt, an expansive inventory can rebalance the emotions and define intended resolution.

There is danger in allowing a small disruption to flow into all aspects of life limiting our thoughts of containment. This eruption is a segment of life, not the total essence of our life. Capsulize the situation, using the remainder of our energy to seek a path of removal or healing.

Narrow focus extends our sense of victimhood. Feeling less empowered, we are trapped. When we broaden our view, new possibilities become apparent. Yes, a situation maybe horrible, but it is not meant to limit the human experience. Step beyond the immediate emotion using new eyes.  

 

Sacred Space

"Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again."

Joseph Campbell

In my very early years, I regularly attended mass in a Roman Catholic Church even though I was Lutheran. It is where I fell in love with stained glass, candles, and intimate connections with the Divine. The atmosphere during the sacredness of ritual, captivated my heart and reassured my frightened soul.

Since that time, I have visited numerous churches, temples, and Godly gatherings. There is joy in finding Divine Spirit throughout diverse practices ... one God many people. My faith is established in my heart not my mind. Lessons are available beyond my limited perceptions and lackadaisical practices.

As I inventory my private space, there are stained glass lamps, numerous candles, rows of books, and calming music ... all attachments established in early religious experiences. My sacred space, however, is not located in just one place. It is in my heart, behind my eyelids, or in the midst of trees where I can discover myself again and again.

 

Participating Equals

"The two kinds of people on earth are the people who lift and the people who lean."

Ella Wheeler Wilcox

There are those who brightly shine their light, attracting others and offering safe space. These are the ones who frequently get their hearts hurt, but they learn to move on with the heart remaining open. Then there are those who live in the dark, cloistered with personal pain with leaning on others their only interaction.

Those shining light, expect goodness banding together, and hoping for life to be in harmony with others. Those hiding in the darkness, want to be like those in the light, but cannot run the risk of another disappointing outcome. They will lean in, but only just so far. Their rigid behavior regulates the projected negative outcome.

Both sides, the light and the dark, have opportunity to change. There are those who may tire of doing all of the lifting and enter darkness while others may grow curious enough to allow a beam of light to enter, perpetuating growth. Balance tends to be the key with respect for both participating equals.  

Increased Awareness

"The best meditation is a gentle awareness."

Maxime Lagace 

Anchored in the present moment, simply close your eyes to experience calm and peace. Ignore any distraction and hold a vision of light or the eyes of a grandchild or an ocean view in the mind's eye. Allow all senses to contribute to this moment. Increase these glimpses throughout the day nurturing the self.

Meditation does not have to be an hour-long practice with special music and props. One does not have to be in a temple or class or secured time to bring the benefits of meditation into our day. Remembering to grasp random moments enhances our daily experience without cost, scheduling or complication.

The challenge is to quiet the mind. As long as we hold chaos in our thoughts, we experience turmoil rather than tranquility. The choice is ours with nothing standing in our way. No matter our circumstances, our energy increases with gentle awareness. This then vibrates into whomever and whatever surrounds us generating a sense of calm.

 

If Wisdom Were A Bird ...

"See for yourself what brings contentment, clarity and peace."

Gautama Buddha

A single nugget of wisdom drops into our mind, and our body responds with resonance. We awaken to possibility and excitement. Then our mind begins to swirl and doubt introduces itself. The brilliance becomes tarnished and our energy becomes diverted. Eventually, there is no room for the survival of original thought.

Our mind fills with such chaotic chatter, especially when we prematurely share the wisdom with others. We may find ourselves overwhelmed by these outside opinions which lead us even farther from original intentions. We neglect to listen to our own heart to recapture the initial moment.

We are regularly flooded with inspiration from various resources. All of our senses are impacted, but too often we simply are not paying attention. Brilliance is snuffed out prior to its time to shine. If wisdom were a bird, it would sit upon our head waiting for the monkey mind to eliminate the criticisms and allow dreams, visions, and gifts to flow.  

The Womb ...

"Wonder begins in the womb of a woman."

Lailah Gifty Akita

There are those who remember being in the womb, and of course they may not readily share that with you. Can you imagine how warm and safe that space may have felt? Is it that experience that we repeatedly seek in human form? Perhaps this is where the heart began its curious speculation of divine purpose in forthcoming life.

It is no wonder why babies scream their heads off when they are strangely propelled into bright light, cold air, and strange surroundings. As soon as possible, they are wrapped in a cotton blanket providing an element of comfort. And is that what we spend our lives seeking ... a blanket providing a sense of safety? 

When we are faced with trauma and chaos, do we not fold into fetal positions? Is there some built in memory of the perceived safety in the womb? In spite of the glory in physical form, overwhelm drives us inward seeking security. Coiled in a blanket do we mentally crave space where we did not breathe air? Makes one wonder ...

Public, Private, and Secret

"Everyone has three lives: a public life, a private life, and a secret life."

Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Our public life is where we project a certain image of ourselves. It may include a particular place in the community or workplace.  A private life is where we entertain the self with choices not seen by all outside sources. The secret life is the mental existence we experience in the mind without appropriate documentation.

This mental existence influences both the private and the public exposure. It projects thoughts either imagined or true. Through impaired thinking, we limit our human experience, stunt our creativity and minimize potential. Obviously, it is a major importance that the relationship with the secret life is observed, stimulated and updated.

When we are aware of activities of the mind, like stress, misconceived projections, and outdated judgments, there is a need to be still and utilize clarity. Time for relaxation releases pent up feelings and allows space for curiosity and realignment. With a healthy mindset, we can find richer quality in our private and public life.

Storehouse of Wisdom

"The unconscious mind is a storehouse of wisdom that can be drawn upon for creativity. Dreams and reveries have long been associated with creative breakthroughs."

Joan Borysenko 

Small nuggets of creativity are strewn throughout our day. Deciding what to wear, how to travel to a destination, or how we can arrange food for a meal are smidgens of what we have available. Creativity is also used in solving problems, configuring tasks and orchestrating routines. 

Our unconscious is filled with wisdom just waiting to be recognized and applied. Too frequently, it is our own judgement that prevents our ability from tapping inside our accumulated storage. We must get out of our own way to experience the flow of knowledge and learn to apply it in authentic ways.

Information received during physical, mental or spiritual exercises too frequently is labeled as imagination. Whatever we decide to call it means far less than how we intend to use it. The insights are intended to better our human experience. Cue up all of the senses and open the self to the possibility of receiving amazing wisdom! 

 

Receiving Spiritual Messages

"Our spirit whispers are the best guides. And they are found in very

personal, quiet moments when we are doing nothing."

Jeanne McElvaney

Countless cultures believe in spirit guides and numerous religions believe in angels. Either way, we can learn from history how ancestors have influenced decision making. We can receive messages from unexplainable sources, whether labeled as totems or inner voices of the Divine. 

We can experience guidance in the midst of prayer, meditation or a walk in nature. Constant elements tend to be silence and listening. Whether we are asking a question or simply open to input, space needs to be held open to ward off distractions. Letting go of the need for instant response, the remainder of the day may be the fertile ground for response.

Answers are not always whispered. Often times, people innocently around us may act out what information we seek. Insight may appear while reading a book or overheard in a public place. Intentions may gain clarity in the lyrics of a song. Open the heart, the mind, and spirit to the possibility of communication and be surprised at what appears.

When the Fog Lifts

"The fog of illusion, the fog of confusion is hanging all over the world."

Van Morrison

We are called to stand strong and weather the storm as a fog hangs heavily over our perspectives, visions and dreams. There is unrest in not having clear cut visuals that could determine our forward movement. Unearthing resources may not be actually receiving information with truth-based reporting.

We may feel trapped in a fog, lacking clarity with pockets of fear. Not having a sense of the future triggers unrest and overwhelm. It is difficult to take precautions and stimulate a plan when it is uncertain what is actually unfolding. All of this leaves us feeling vulnerable and deeply frightened.

Until the fog lifts, go inside to explore who we were yesterday, and who we want to be in the future, but most importantly who we are today. Notice how we are tending to our personal needs and how we are fueling our inner spirit. Generate a little writing to link random thoughts together. The fog will lift and you will be ready.

 

Heartfelt Identity

"The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil,

but by those who watch them without doing anything."

Albert Einstein

Currently, I am noticing individuals coming forward, stepping through personal fear and using his or her voice. There seems to be an increase in momentum instead of a stagnant stance of apathy. Rather than hearing what people are against, the conversation is leaning towards what people are for. 

I am experiencing this personally as well. Unplugging from that which displeases me, I am choosing to be present and aware. I am noticing aspects of myself in need of correction and elements of relationships that need adjustment. My tendency is to withdraw or resort to what is familiar, and this clearly is no longer the way.

Clarity, I believe, is the key. With an open mind, reality needs to be explored with open eyes. What is triggering me needs to be explored which will update perceptions and truth. Until actions are aligned with heartfelt identity, there will be discord. Investment in myself deserves to be shared inwardly as well as on the outer plains.  

Updated Version

"I made my own assessment of my life and I began

to live it. That was freedom."

Fernando Flores

We support our loved ones, wanting them to live full lives, but what about our own? When was the last time we deliberately sat down and inventoried our needs and how we meet them. What of desires and dreams? Have we given up by investing all of our resources into others, allowing ourselves to decline?

As we age, our attention gets diverted into various responsibilities, and unfortunately, our name ends up last on the list. And of course, by the time we reach the bottom, there is no creative energy left. Where did we stray off course and how can we direct ourselves back into a productive routine enhancing our life? 

When we think of ourselves in the given moment, do we have an updated version and how does it compare to earlier expectations? Name who is in your way ... more than likely it is no one other than us. Get out of the way and rekindle a creative fire and follow through. Begin small but consistently feeding the fire until we begin to roar!

Obstacles

"The obstacles of your past can become the gateways

that lead to new beginnings."

Ralph Blum

On a certain day, we may be feeling confident and truly happy, but the Universe seems to have an alternate plan. It creates a new obstacle. As our emotions cascade from joy to perhaps fear, a new approach is required. Time is wasted if we get stuck in the 'why' of things. It is beneficial if we place focus on what the lesson might be. 

As we evaluate the gnarled mess before us, we can begin to dismantle outer pieces. Hopefully this will reveal what is knotted inside. Often, this calls upon us to heighten our skills and change priorities. In time, an awareness surfaces that connects the intention of the lesson with new possibilities.

Obstacles are not meant to stop us dead in our tracks. They are simply hurdles with rewards waiting on the other side. They are not meant to deaden us, but to shake us into broader experiences that will deepen our life. No matter how challenging, push forward at a chosen pace and persevere. A new beginning awaits.  

Faulty Connection

"People leave traces of themselves where they feel most

comfortable, most worthwhile."

Haruki Murakami 

Relationships can be quite diverse, each adding to segments of our life. We may have professional associations, social connections and emotional bonds. Although these may differ, each one contributes to our sense of identity. We may be teaching or learning, hopefully with a sense of honesty and leaving a sense of self.

Monitoring a relationship as it deepens, one notices if there is a sense of curiosity drawing our attention or small flares of caution. Do we feel our boundaries need to be raised and our opinions altered or are walls lowered as we feel seen and appreciated? If there is room for expansion and growth, the importance of the connection increases.

There are connections that last a lifetime, and some that are simply outgrown. If we no longer feel respected or heard, if we can no longer simply be ourselves, and the quality of the attachment diminishes, perhaps, it is time to let go. Find an honorable way to lessen our presence without placing blame or judgement. 

Realm of Privacy

 

"There is a sacred realm of privacy for every man and woman

where he makes his choices and decisions ... a realm of his own

essential rights and liberties."

Geoffrey Fisher

A sacred realm of privacy can be physical, mental or spiritual with the importance being on how much we use it. There is comfort in sharing with friends and enormous relief confiding with a professional, but truth is often revealed best in our own safe space. The honest conversation here is not geared towards pleasing others.

Spending time in our sacred realm, raw emotion can be spewed without harming anyone. Anger can be allowed as it strikes no one. Stating the need for departure can be stated without fearing retaliation. Much of what is acknowledged in our safe space, needs not to be acted upon.

Ridding ourselves of personal pain in privacy allows forward movement or not. There may be healing just in the act of private disclosure. or acknowledgement that no longer is there a certainty to life. Create a sacred realm where we can just 'be' without masks, expectations, or commitment. Privacy in a safe space reawakens authenticity. 

Table for Two ...

 

"Much unhappiness has come into the world because of

bewilderment and things left unsaid."

Fyodor Dostoevsky

The couple sat at a romantic table with flowers and candles. They seemed to be hiding behind their menus. They ordered their fancy dinners speaking animatedly with the waiter. When he walked away, all of the warmth at the table disappeared. For the duration of the meal, no words were exchanged.

Companionship opens the doorway to communication, and a partner is for exchanging ideas. Even friends are meant for sharing. Some grow comfortable with silence, living inside his or her own imaginary scenarios while others feel isolated or insignificant. Taking the risk to expose our current thought process is imperative.

Why do people invest in relationships that do not nurture? Do they really want to live what is left of their life invisible? When we use our voice, personal understanding can be revealed to the self and to others. Our words paint a picture of who we are and if they are not welcomed, perhaps we need to change tables and sit in a different chair!

Glimmers of Light

"Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness."

Desmond Tutu

Walking in the neighborhood, I passed homes with light shining outward into the darkness.  The windows held radiant beams that stirred emotions within me. The projected glow somehow warmed my heart. Even though I was on the outside, there was comfort in knowing that there was light throughout the world.

There are numerous ways light touches us. Whether a lighthouse or a firefly, a campfire or a candle, the sacredness of light can help us feel reverent or safe. Some are drawn by the moon or the sun as a focal point for calm. And what of the stars glittering up in the sky? If we slowed down, the glimmer would catch our eye.

We house a light inside of ourselves that expands and contracts. It may not be seen by others, but they indeed can sense it. We can be a beacon for those who are feeling lost or seeking a safe harbor. Our warm glow can offer comfort and calm. Light a candle today and celebrate the light that dwells within. 

"When You Know, You Know"

"When you know, you know."

Common Phrase 

"When you know, you know" is often associated with issues of the heart. It is beyond a verbal calculation, as it is more of a gut reaction. This knowing is a feeling rather than based on facts in all categories of life. Whether a business deal, participation in a group, or choices in purchasing, we experience a sense that nudges us to pay attention.

There are times when we are eager to engage, but something just doesn't feel right. Things just don't seem to stack up. It is at this point we have choice to either blindly plough forward or pause to reassess. It is understandable to want to put our best foot forward, but we must make certain the ground before us is stable.

Truth has a way of presenting itself, but we have a tendency to minimize rather than face facts. If we trust our inner voice a sense of power assists us to deal with reality. If down to the bone our body screams 'go' then by all means go! But if unease stirs, trust the inner knowledge to pause and examine. 

 

Quickened Pace

"May the spirit of the Fire Horse encourage you to move forward

with confidence and enthusiasm."

Depor 

By this time, hopefully we have shed our skin and no longer crawl on our bellies like the Year of the Snake. We are now into the Year of the Horse and the pace has quickened. We are more aware of increased energy, and our intentions shift away from our ego and into the collective awareness. 

With newly created optimism, we view our world through eyes of kindness and charitable connection. With gathered courage, we pursue our goals and enter into challenges. We call upon our courage and with bravery, we move forward into our dreams. This is not about winning a race but perfecting our gallop to stay the course.

Rather than clutching an ego-based existence, we are more aware of the collective spirit. We are in the presence of greatness created by joined efforts. With confidence, we continuously move forward into a higher sense of experience. Our sense of futile loneliness dissipates as we choose to increase healing space for one and all.

 

Make It Short

"Every thought you tend becomes part of your soul's song."

Daily Shaman

The person who pays attention to our opinions the most is our self. Uncensored, we absorb any random thought without considering if it is true or false. We give zero consideration to whether or not the information is accurate or false, based on truth or fiction, or totally worthless.

What we think shapes who we become so we strive to be affirmative. What about the constant subconscious streaming in the background? If our thinking shapes our soul's song, are the verses resonating or detonating? We can take deep dives into resources, making application to new behaviors, but are there still damaging random thoughts?

At first, it may seem silly but create a phrase to silently embrace. Make it short such as I am strong, I am capable, I make a difference. Mentally whisper or shout this special phrase constantly throughout the day. Develop this into a tender mantra and be amazed at how it lifts your spirits and changes perceptions.