Bending

 

"The little reed, bending to the force of the wind, soon stood upright again

when the storm had passed over." 

Aesop 

If we feel secure, we are willing to be flexible. When we feel our body yelling to be careful, there is a need to be hesitant. Life is meant to be laced with curiosity in order to stretch and grow. Flexibility assists in being in balance with others. Rigidity tends to lead us into isolation or false reality.

When we hold a particular belief, it should be strong enough to entertain opposite opinions. Exploration frequently reenforces what we believe. It is out of respect that we live side by side with opposing views. This does not mean, however, that force or oppression is to be tolerated. 

As life experience deepens our understanding, we change. Some people accept this while others will become critical. It is important to be aware when change is transitional or not beneficial. As we continue to stretch and grow, updating our belief system helps endure high winds that temporarily cause us to bend.

Sunrise and Sunset ...

 

"May every sunrise hold more promise and every sunset hold more peace."

Umair Siddiqui

Courageously, the sun pushes itself above the horizon for all to see. The piercing radiance easily captivates attention. It sets the example of moving forward without knowing what the day will bring. Later, the sun falls into the horizon with peaceful grace and awe-inspiring beauty bringing closure to the day.

It is easy to forget about the long passage the sun travels throughout the day. Frequently, it is confronted with inclement weather passing above and below. Still, it carries on. The sun may require bravery to stay the course and trust it will arrive at its destination with perfect timing and flow.

It makes one wonder what it would take for humans to duplicate this steadiness of pace. Could we masterfully collect bravery and courage while trusting in our progress sight unseen? Maybe chaos would be minimized and anxiety diminished. Trust and consistency may be the answer to radiant peace. 

Released

 

               "And when we bring what is within us out into the world, miracles happen."                      Henry David Thoreau 

Within each one of us resides wisdom. We may not have magnificent brain function, but not all revelations come from superior intelligence. Inside of each one of us, we have seeds of insight waiting to be cultivated. There are numerous ways for ideas to enter our subconscious, and it is our decision to share that furthers dreams.

When random thoughts are shared with others, we have no idea how they will grow either inside our realm or outside on a different horizon. Like a gardener cultivates all seeds, not just one, all thoughts need our attention. Just as flowers form a bouquet, gathered ideas can shape a new reality.

It is important to carry our ideas into a broader arena. Whether we are verbalizing, writing or creating art, tiny glimpses can become extraordinary contributions. In this way, we honor not only ourselves, but the higher source of giving. Placing gestures outside of ourselves, enhances our sense of connection. 

Hope

           

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

Desmond Tutu

Preparation for safety and stability does not remove us from the path of darkness. It may ease our passage, but hope helps us withstand challenges. Like a guiding light, hope distracts us from falling deeper into night shades. It is like a bit of fresh air washing over us and lifting our heavy thoughts.

At a young age, we learn of hope and it is carried with us into our adult years. It touches our emotions and gently sweeps anxiety away. There are times hope becomes our only lifeline. If we do not recognize our guidance nor actively pursue correction, we sink to the bowels of despair. Thankfully, hope is there.

Hope is a reprieve or an abundant boost available to all peoples. It may take on different disguises, but it is available to all. As an unrestricted bright light, it offers warmth to an isolated cold environment or a boost in Divine connection. It is an instant connection with non-descript energy carrying us on our way. 

 

Overridden by Desire

"You are creating your world with your intentions."

Gary Zukav

When you exchange with others, do you ask questions sincerely? Are you curious about them and patiently await their answer? Do you hold yourself open to them and attempt to understand what they say? Is there a desire to contribute in hopes of forming a connection? If not, why are you even with them?

Where we place our attention impacts our thoughts, words, and deeds. This is why it is important to be honest about where we go and who we share time with. Sometimes we are called simply to be present, but other times we are needing to be heard. When we realize we are not being 'seen' or heard, it is time to shift.

There comes a time when the comfort of being with those you know is overridden by the desire for expansion. We want to be stimulated and heighten our awareness. If your current friends cannot share this sense of adventure, then perhaps it is time to seek out new acquaintances.

 

Belly Laughs

 

"A good laugh is sunshine in the soul."

Max Eastman

The sunshine in one's soul can be stimulated by belly laughs. The kind of laughter that falls down to the feet and bounces back up, through the soul, and exits the top of the head. This laughter is beyond giggling or snickering. It is guffawing with abandonment. It is temporarily releasing every negative or dark thought loitering in the mind.

As the head tips back, heavy laughter is being projected upward and into the sun. There is a warmth flooding the face and a heartfelt connection that is surely bliss. Perhaps this is similar to an out of body experience. We forget everything ... worry, sadness, loss, and illness of the body, mind and spirit.

On April Fool's Day numerous pranks and jokes escalate. Laughter abounds and even the most juvenile action triggers laughter. This happiness doesn't last long, but this sense of gaiety can be easily found when we glance up towards the sun. If we let the bright light fall upon us and open our hearts, laughter is restored. 

 

Disclosure

"The impulse to over explain often comes from a history of not feeling truly heard."

Dr. Sara Kuburie

If we were to write an essay on a topic familiar to us, words might be difficult to find. Conversely, when writing with passion, we may discover an endless trail of phrases. Our mind is filled with thoughts needing expression. Not only is there a desire to share, but the comfort of being understood is present as well. 

As we download our stored information to a person, eye contact, body language and verbal responses create the level of sharing. If we sense we are not being supported, effort is made to explain in differing ways. In the midst, there comes a time where being understood is more important than the actual subject at hand.

It is one thing for someone's ears not being open, but when the heart is closed, emotions flood our thinking. We may even turn on ourselves questioning if we are right or wrong, aligned or weird. The resulting emotions may become stockpiled in our memory, impeding future disclosures. 

 

Upside

"Some people become so fixed in their ways that they 

adopt the belief that all change is bad."

Nedra Glover Tawwab

Adjusting the time of a meeting can be incidental. Changing the location of the meeting can be inconvenient. Learning the leader cancelled and you are the stand-in can be overwhelming. Change can be annoying, but with flexibility, it can be handled without too much stress.

Change can also be exhilarating, like receiving a raise or manifesting a lifelong dream. Maybe a new haircut or exceptional weight loss can be exciting as well. Discovering a unique shop or new friend can be stimulating. Life is good when change is uplifting. Going with the flow seems easy. 

There are numerous ways change can bring our world crashing down ... death, divorce, discrimination, or demotion. Response, an attitude, contributes to the depth of despair. Pushing through dismay, and imagining something good emerging from the ashes, life will return to the upside of change.

 

Mystical

"A kind gesture can reach a wound that only compassion can heal."

Steve Maraboli

In the grocery store, my heart was heavy and filled with sadness. Then there was this toddler sitting in the cart next to mine and he was screaming his head off. Tears rolled down his beet red face, and eyes were scrunched shut. Suddenly he opened them and looked at me, reaching out towards me.

His chubby little hand grasped my extended finger and he hung on tightly. I thought I was helping him until I felt the warmth only love can provide. There was kind light flowing through me, pushing away my darkness. His eyes were intense and I willingly fell into his compassionate stare.

Reaching into my purse, I pulled out a small vial of bubbles. I opened it and blew a few into the now pristine air. He laughed and I smiled, so I offered another round.  I looked at his mom, who was choosing oranges, and asked if her son could have these bubbles. "Of course," she said, clueless of our mystical exchange.

 

 

Location

"If you do not know where you are going, every road will get you nowhere."

Henry A. Kissinger

The day stretches before us waiting to be played. What will we do with it? Do we tell ourselves that we have plenty of time or not enough time? There may be maps before us as we try to configure if we want the expressway, frontage road or back routes. Perhaps too much time is being wasted in thought.

We need to just step on the path, trusting in life unfolding. At this slower pace we can see potholes and navigate detours. The importance is in beginning not knowing every detail of the trip. Be aware of surroundings and engage with others while observing what actually has value and insight.

The question is where are you? Maybe it is time to dislodge from travel plans developed for others and create a personal agenda. Gather thoughts of what you want and move from baby steps to passageways to destination. There is joy in beginning so do not remain stuck. Listen for wisdom truly does surround you.

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.

Last Day ...

 "Live until you die."

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross

Death is going to happen no matter our age or prevention we seek. Unless we are engaging in suicide, the timeliness of our departure is not in our hands. It matters not if we are religious or spiritual or embrace a diverse belief system, death is inevitable. This fear of death, where did it originate and by whom?

A Native American saying, "It is a good day to die," reflects that each day should be lived to its fullest, goals have been addressed, and there is an appreciation for all people, places, and things. If we have been unproductive and wasted our day, where does the blame lie? If we hold ourselves accountable, the outcome is of our own doing. 

How would our routines shift if we embraced each day as perhaps our last? Would we be checking bank accounts or inventorying material possessions? Would we not want to exchange deep feelings with family, friends, and mentors? Are we certain injustices are forgiven, and poor judgment resolved? Just how well aught our day end?

Hope

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

Desmond Tutu

Preparation for safety and stability does not remove us from the path of darkness. It may ease our passage, but hope helps us withstand challenges. Like a guiding light, hope distracts us from falling deeper into night shades. It is like a bit of fresh air washing over us and lifting our heavy thoughts.

At a young age, we learn of hope and it is carried with us into our adult years. It touches our emotions and gently sweeps anxiety away. There are times hope becomes our only lifeline. If we do not recognize our guidance nor actively pursue correction, we sink to the bowels of despair. Thankfully, hope is there.

Hope is a reprieve or an abundant boost available to all peoples. It may take on different disguises, but it is available to all. As an unrestricted bright light, it offers warmth to an isolated cold environment or a boost in Divine connection. It is an instant connection with non-descript energy carrying us on our way. 

 

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!