Riding the Curve of the Spiral

The whole universe is based on rhythms. Everything happens in circles, in spirals.

John Hartford

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"The whole universe is based on rhythms.

Everything happens in circles, in spirals."

John Hartford

Life is a dance, sometimes a jitterbug, foxtrot or waltz.  We get swirled around, moving in one direction until we are reeled back into an other.  This can happen so quickly, we may lose sight of what direction we need to go.  Going back and forth, covering the same ground, repeating the same steps, can be disheartening and tiring.

Life presents us with lessons, and we strive to master them.  Often times we are seemingly successful only to experience the same challenge repeatedly.  It never looks the same, but eventually the return to particular feelings cues us to what is unfolding, yet once again. 

We are creatures of habit, returning to what is comfortable even if it is not the best choice.  Change feels uncomfortable, and we are not always wired to persevere and move forward.  Instead, we find our selves running in circles, spiraling up and then down.

The more we resist, the stronger the persistence. If we accept the challenge, facing it head on, we will find ourselves once again on the other side of the challenge.  We will be stronger to have endured and learned.

The key is to learn to embrace the moment.  To take in whatever it is that surrounds us.  Search for the significance of what is happening.  When we ask, "Why me," we are trapped in the victim mode.  When we understand what lesson stands before us, we move into action or solution, gaining momentum and personal power.  Each curve of the spiral blends lesson, beauty and grace.

The whole universe is based on rhythms. Everything happens in circles, in spirals.

John Hartford

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/spirals.html#X2cVgkv67PTwoA2K.99

The whole universe is based on rhythms. Everything happens in circles, in spirals.

John Hartford

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/spirals.html#X2cVgkv67PTwoA2K.99

The whole universe is based on rhythms. Everything happens in circles, in spirals.

John Hartford

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/spirals.html#X2cVgkv67PTwoA2K.99

The whole universe is based on rhythms. Everything happens in circles, in spirals.

John Hartford

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/spirals.html#X2cVgkv67PTwoA2K.99

Wear Our Lovely Selves Well!

 

 

"No matter how plain a woman may be,

if truth and honesty

are written across her face,

she will be beautiful."

 

Eleanor Roosevelt

 

 



It is not unusual to come across a poem or a writing encouraging us to see the beauty in another person as a reflection of our very selves.  People are mirrors to us, we are told.   When we notice a quality in some one else, we can ask if we need to strengthen that in ourselves or do we have it in place?  There are times we are witness to someone acting 'ugly' or being insensitive, and we are urged to look within and see if we, too, act in this way.  Sometimes we realize the poor behavior of someone else is just showing us how we never want to be. 

 

While traveling, I noticed a woman who walked with grace.  She carried herself with confidence and appeared to be prepared for anything coming onto her path.  As I reviewed my life, I was reminded how courage came to me when needed; when bravery appeared as required; and how well I had defended myself.  Although my expectations had shifted over  the years, it was important to embrace the sense of  'job well done'.

 

Sadly, we often times do not give our selves credit that is due.  It is important to reflect on the good we have accomplished with a humble spirit and thankful heart.  There is no need to compare our lives to the lives of others.  Value the accomplishments that have been made by being true to our authentic selves.  Our beauty shines as we  learn to 'wear' our lovely selves well!

 

 

 

 



"Little Children Have Big Ears"

 

Amelia Jane Murray

 

 

It is no wonder children love to be read to and eagerly await their skill to read.  Their desire is illustrated when they sit with a book in their lap, a pointed finger sliding over words, except they are making up the entire story.  My point ... we all have imagination whether it is mathematics, scientific discoveries, or writer extraordinaire.  Our child's imagination resides within. 

 

As children we see delight in both physical and imaginary things. We sense the tension in troubled situations as well as any existing happiness.  "Little pictures have big ears," is a saying to remind us that no matter what children are doing, they are listening to whatever is being said around them.

 

The information children hear very well may not be understood, but they can detect the intensity of anger or fear.  In turn, they demonstrate these feelings while coloring (art therapy), acting out, (play therapy) or withdrawing (dissociation). 

 

If our imagination is nurtured as a child, we can hone that skill, preparing it to be used in some authentic way in our adult life.  When our imagination is squelched as a child, we may repress it and condition ourselves to ignore it.  It is amazing that our imagination can return in full force at any point in time.

 

Whether we realize it or not, when we are reading, our imagination brings the words to life.  Our minds paint pictures with the writer's words.  And the writer's words?  They, too, of course come from experiences or day dream places.  They too have had 'big ears' overhearing conversations.

 

Our imagination allow us to see between the veils, to discover magic on the page, and fanciful adventures in our dreams.  If, as adults, we are willing to test our imagination, take a pencil and blank piece of paper.  Either sketch, jot down phrases or begin writing.  The experience is like any other ... the more we do it, the better we get!

 

 

Being Strange

 

 

 

(Beach Stones, Lake Huron)

 

"It's ok.

Writers should be strange."

CafePress.com

 

 

As each beach stone or sea shell is never identical, why does our culture put so much emphasis on trying to make us compete to be the same?  If the creator, universe, goddess creates us to be individual and authentic, why would we not be focused on our own uniqueness?  Instead of hiding our special gifts, we would be placing more energy into them to be fine tuned.

 

Our culture allows artists, writers, and entrepreneurs to be 'out of the box', but there seems to be a more defined code for a CEO, teacher, doctor, or minister.  There are multiple scenarios where doctors, for example, leave their prestigious hospital to enter a foreign country to help the poor in a ramble of a shack as a make do surgery suite.  There is an entire organization of such doctors, but apparently our culture chooses not to highlight these gestures.  Also, numerous teachers spend the summer volunteering at children's camps, church retreats, and community services.  Where is the praise for these worthy actions? 

 

One would suspect that the professionals offering their services to the lesser few are not doing it for the attention.  The teachers are placing their energy where they feel called to help others.  These are attitudes, if we all practiced them, that could shift our world and the world of others.    The emphasis of those who serve is on giving, not receiving recognition. 

 

Perhaps if we would all walk to the beat of our own drum, and venture fully into our personal oddity, without concern of judgement, our world would shift into a better place.  Encouragement leads to confidence, and confidence leads to self-esteem.  If we focused more on instilling strength to be authentic rather than wasting energy on following misguided paths, we could all be happier people.  We would be with each other rather than against.

 

The Thief

 

"A woman who can control her fear

is both a powerful asset

and a worthy opponent."

 

Sarah Elizabeth Pharis

 

 

Fear is a thief!  Fear drains us of physical energy as well as creative expression. It can control us so thoroughly, we may as well be locked in a cage.  It has the power to rob us of rational thinking.  The impact of fear, can keep us in the dark even though we can still see an eye of beckoning light.

 

Fear is an illusion to be recognized so we can step through it into the light or real world.  Fear says, "What if you fail?"  Healthy thinking says, "What will I learn?"  If we cower in darkness we will fail to experience the wonders of the world. 

 

Although fear can be a true warning in dangerous situations, it can also be a block to our passion and dreams.  Fear keeps us thinking small and handicaps our ability to move forward.  The trap of fear can hold us in depression which is painful and exhausting. 

 

There is a risk of stepping through fear, but by taking the risk, we usually end up more powerful.  It is empowering to face our reality, and navigate through challenges.  It may not be easy, but it certainly is better than the pain of living in fear.  Don't let fear be a thief, taking from us calm, peace, and connection.

 



 



Sunshine ...

 

 

"The sun is gone,

but I have a light."

Kurt Cobain

 

 

My daughter's visit has come and gone, way too quickly.  We were successful in introducing her dog, Hannah to my dog Bella.  Thankfully they were very receptive to each other and having two dogs in my home did not turn into a nightmare! 

 

The weather was exceptionally nice which allowed us to sit out on the deck and watch the two dogs romp around.  We had wonderful long walks at the park and a special excursion to visit two of my grandchildren.  Bubbles, soft ball, jump rope and plenty to eat.  Out of no where, an aged purple balloon floated into their yard and my granddaughter quickly grasped the string.  My grandson was in awe exclaiming it was certainly a miracle! 

 

It is heart lifting to experience the observations of young children.  They find such delight in the simple and uncomplicated things.  Time spent with my daughter is still like this.  We can just 'be' together, perfectly content to be outside.  We swapped books as usual and shared news about friends and family. 

 

When I have family in my home, I feel like a flower reaching up to the sunshine, filling myself with energy clear down to my roots.  My family is my sunshine, but in their absence, I bask in the Divine Light that I have come to know.



 

The Degree of Self-Acceptance



"I always thought that people told you that you're beautiful--that this was a title that was bestowed upon you...I think that it's time to take this power into our own hands and to say, "You know what? I'm beautiful. I just am. And that's my light. I'm just a beautiful woman." — Margaret Cho

It can be very awkward when someone pays us a compliment, especially if we do not recognize the particular element within us.  Women tend to be more serious in accepting kindness when it is about personal qualities or abilities, rather than physical appearances.  This certainly reflects the conflict most women have in reference to body image.

To make it less personal, let's look at birds.  The male cardinals are beautiful and almost boastful.  Blue jays are pretty and pretty noisy.  Morning Doves are simple and sleek where eagles are majestic and hawks seem to always be in a flow.  Even small brown sparrows reflect childlike play.  My point of course, is that everything that is created has its own beauty.  And beauty is displayed in a variety of ways.

People who take the time to capture a glimpse of our beauty need to be responded to with grace.  How we define the word beautiful may be entirely different to what some one else has in mind.  The degree of self- acceptance is reflected in how graciously we respond.

It's Hard To Tell

"People change and forget

to tell each other."

Lillian Hellman

1907 - 1984

American Playwright and Writer

When we return to our family of origin, we frequently fall back into our original role.  Even though it may be an unwelcome role, it tends to be more comfortable to play it, than to try to project our change.  Often when we meet old friends for a gathering, we slip into a script that was created early on.  We may discuss what is 'new' and yet never mention the growing passion in our hearts. 

Our friends who have become our family along the way, perhaps are close enough to detect our changes and may even encourage us to share.  It can be frightening to express our transitions, and yet liberating once explained. 

As we change, our point of reference gets altered as well.  We may shift our focus exposing us to new friends with similar interests.  As these relationships deepen, we have less time for others who had kept us company for so long.

Life is bittersweet.  While experiencing joy, we are sometimes called to release an old part of our selves to make room for complete fulfillment.  In order to gain, we are called to experience loss.  It is important to understand there is no right or wrong, no need for a drama or fictional saga.  It is a matter of releasing and embracing.

One does wonder why we forget to share our transformations.  Do we fear judgement or speculate we will be misunderstood?  Are we dishonoring our selves by not presenting an integration of what has been learned?  Is it a matter of hiding our selves or just being content?  We are all so different, it is hard to tell.

Shake It Up!

"Don't ask what the world needs.  Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it.  Because what the world needs is people who have come alive."   Howard Thurman


Agendas, goals, and intentions are important to help shape our lives, but it is vitally important those very things also make us feel happy in addition to feeling secure.  If we are not following our own dreams, we reach success or maybe even failure wondering why we pursued something that left us feeling empty. 

We have a tendency to be guided by others who wish for us to succeed, and out of great respect we listen to the offered advice.  When the advice sounds alluring, but does not resonate with our personal goals, it is best to trust the inner guidance over the solicited.

We find ourselves in situations saying, "Yes.  I could do that," but is our heart really in it.  Any event we try to accomplish can be challenging and having a passion for the work builds an extra fire.  If an authentic desire is lacking, the back up system for that extra push may be absent. 

We begin each day with a a clean slate.  Sure there are things we must do, but we don't have to always do them in exactly the same way.  Shake it up a little bit!  Add some variety even if it is just traveling a different route or switching around daily routines. 

Look up at the sky and notice the clouds.  Never do we see the vary same formation.  Clouds float in the sky day after day making creative form.  We can do the same.  Oh, and the days there are no clouds floating in the sky?  They have taken a play day! 

"You Gotta' Wanna'!"

www.gratefulness.org

More and more evidence indicates that lack of love not only leads to loneliness, despair, and resentment, but also contributes to the deterioration of physical health.

Eknath Easwaran

Loneliness can lead to destructive behavior or a withdrawal into ourselves, both distancing us from the input we truly need.  This sense of being alone can occur in the midst of a large family or in a hollow existence.  If we have the strength to rectify the situation, we frequently look outside of ourselves to fill the empty space.  In truth, the first step needs to be into our self, connecting to what would bring joy into our lives. 

Passion is not just about love making.  Passion is the fire in the belly, the catalyst projecting us farther into the realms of being alive which attracts kindred spirits.  Instead of using our energy to seek out people, we can use that energy to discover small bits of kindling to light our fire.  When the flames soar up into the sky, they will attract others to gather near us. 

When we are feeling unloved or unworthy, we close into our selves which inevitably begins to impact our health.  Poor eating habits, no exercise, no stimulating conversations, tend to take a toll on our health.  On the other hand, when we pull ourselves out of the victim role and set upon a journey to discover our hearts desires, we empower our body with more strength and energy.  We open up rather than shut down.

The effect of disrespect for our selves trickles down into our soul.  We experience anxiety, loss of sleep, lack of drive and a lethargic view towards life.  We may find it difficult to reach inside to unearth what would truly bring us joy.  It takes effort and determination as nothing comes easily.  Once, however, we are on that road to discovery, life seems a little bit more hopeful.  No one can do this for us.  What is that saying, "You gotta' wanna!"

Traits of Success

It has always seemed strange to me ... the things we admire in men, kindness and generosity, openness, honesty, understanding and feeling, are the concomitants of failure in our system.  And those traits we detest, sharpness, greed, acquisitiveness, meanness, egotism and self-interest are the traits of success.  And while men admire the quality of the first they love the produce of the second.  John Steinbeck

Success is portrayed as a very difficult climb up a ladder, knocking others down on the way up.  The business world is highly competitive and 'dog eat dog'.  Winners are driven and admired by many.  This attitude never sat well with me.  I much preferred to think of accomplishment as moving not up a ladder, but riding in a train.  At some points of our life, we are in the caboose while other times we may be the engineer of the train.  The bulk of life is spent passing back and forth between the cars, learning with everyone on our own level.  Competition is replaced by respect for diversity and encouragement for each other.  Everyone riding the train enjoys the ride rather than one person sitting on the top looking down upon others.

This morning I caught a glimpse of an article about Phil Mickelson written by Jay Busbee.  I have watched Phil Mickelson both on and off the links.  Anyone can easily see that he is a family man and loves children.  I watched him with a tournament early in his career.  If he made his last putt, he would wear a green jacket, but if he missed, he would lose the championship.  The putt barely made it in and Mr. Mickelson would later credit his grandfather (who had just passesd after years of supporting Phil in the game) for nudging the ball into the hole.  In another championship there was a playoff that would involve extra holes.  Phil walked over to the crowd and asked a young boy if he and his father would like to have front row seats to a professional sports event that night, as he, now, would not be able to attend.  He gives things away to the crowd randomly, and whether in success or defeat, he greets others with a goofy but endearing smile.

In Jay Busbee's article, he says that 'we want those we admire to be laser-focused and monomaniacol.'  He mentions Woods, Jordan, Bryant  have 'raging egos, disconnected reality' and have been publically knocked from their and up on a pedestal.  These examples are in comparison to Phil Mickelson who jokes, smiles, displays compassion ... signs of weakness.    The above mentioned men have fallen off pedestals while Phil has never placed himself up on one. 

Moral of story?  We are our own composers of the life we lead.  We get to choose how we navigate and the atmosphere best supporting us.   We all face challenge and we individually decide whether to climb the ladder or ride the train.

The Ache Deep Inside

“For the first time, she did want more. She did not know what she wanted, knew that it was dangerous and that she should rest content with what she had, but she knew an emptiness deep inside her, which began to ache.”

Iain Pears, The Dream of Scipio

We do not always realize the ache deep inside of ourselves, until we have finally addressed it.  Then, we ask ourselves, "Why didn't I do that earlier?"  Months ago, I was confronted by the question of what i truly wanted or needed just for my lovely self.  Humph!  I was incapable of answering.  How in the world could my needs and desires be met if they remained unidentified.

It wasn't very long before I put a name on a desire ... I wanted a dog.  For several months I sought out available animals at various shelters and rescues.  Nine times, the connection failed.  Each time, my inner child was once again disappointed to not have her needs met.  I could be the adult saying, "We are waiting for the right one.  This one was not the one, so we have to be patient."  These well intentioned words meant nothing to the weeping child deep within.

Those aware of my newly identified longing, encouraged me to relax and trust that I would be provided with the exact pet to meet my needs.  On one level, I knew these words to be true.  On another level, my heart just kept breaking open. 

A Red bone Hound entered my life in a synchronistic way, three weeks ago.  I have named her Bella and she is a perfect five year old sweetheart.  She is my constant companion and I am so thankful I was able to wait long enough for her to appear.  I love her dearly, and I slowly realize the strange ache within me has disappeared.  My loneliness has been replaced with joy. 

Perhaps being a Cancer/Moon Child, and characteristically are known as caretakers plays a big part in my need for this beautiful soul permanently situated in my life.  She is a responsibility, but it is a responsibility I love.  Caring for her, meeting her needs, and walking her has bonded us in a way that allows me to feel whole.  I talk to her all of the time and love touching her.

The surprise of course is the gift she truly is to me.  I am certain she has rescued me more than I rescued her.

Joy in Witnessing

"He understood that in walking to atone for the mistakes he had made, it was also his journey to accept the strangeness of others.  As a passerby, he was in a place where everything, not only the land, was open.  People would feel free to talk, and he was free to listen.  To carry a little of them as he went.  He had neglected so many things that he owed this small piece of generosity to the past."

THE UNLIKELY PILGRIMAGE OF HAROLD FRY

Rachel Joyce

We miss so many opportunities to experience life in different situations by choosing not to extend conversations with strangers.  Whether it is on a park trail or an aisle in the grocery store, total strangers become openly vulnerable with the slightest of gestures.

While walking the other day, I passed a woman wearing a scalloped artistic khaki jacket.  I liked it by sight, but did not comment until I had already passed her.  I quickly turned and said, "Nice jacket!"  The woman stopped and stepped back towards me.  "It is so old," she said.  Then she continued on to say that when her mother passed, she came across this very jacket with her mother's name on the label.  She said she could not help but feel her mother was prompting her to buy it.  "I still feel close to mom whenever I wear it and I can't throw it away," the woman shared.  I encouraged her to continue to wear it as it looked great, and then continued on my way.

Although incidental, this conversation brought me into the presence of a stranger who willingly shared a story.  It is a story I will remember and share with others.  It is not life changing, but it is life enhancing.  Had I not taken the time to comment out loud, I would have entirely missed this exchange. 

Often times, it is the little things bringing tenderness to our lives.  I believe I appreciate a day filled with little bursts of insight rather than one big 'ah ha' moment once per month.  Little bits of sweetness can brighten our day and make others happy by allowing them to share a small piece of their world.  There can be joy in witnessing the lives of others, if we would just take the time.

Entering through the Door

There are so many diverse pathways, leading to the road of discovery.  The same lesson or message can be delivered in varying languages, actions, or visions, but still may not unfold into personal understanding.  No matter how carefully we listen, sometimes the importance simply does not resonate.  Then one day we pick up a book or meet a stranger and hear exactly the same intentions being displayed.  BAM!  We throw open the door and discover what we had been seeking.

There are many teachers and a variety of lessons.  There are many ways for us to learn.  So it is important we continue to approach what we seek until there is an alignment.  Teachers can only do so much.  They can explain to the best of their ability and still we may not personally connect.

What pathway works for one person, may be totally foreign to another.  We must find our own way and open our own door to understanding.  Even when we may think we are ready to learn, time some times is not ours and our lessons are delayed. 

It is important to remain consistent and flexible, to listen and see beyond, and to be patient and gentle with ourselves as well as others.  It is only when we enter the doorway by ourselves that we truly understand our lengthy travels.

Gifts from Spirit

“Absence is to love what wind is to fire; it extinguishes the small, it inflames the great.”

Roger de Bussy Rabutin

We have all heard the adages of the waxing and waning of friendships, how some friends stay while others go.  There are some we feel a special kinship to who dance in and out of our lives over the years.  Others may be present only briefly, but impact us beyond compare.

Friendships are treasures and they need loving care even if there are miles between.  A thread of connection whether emotional or physical tethers the friends together.  When life divides us from those we regard as kin, and we never actually see them again, a piece of what was shared can remain vitally present in our hearts.

There is much joy to be found with the bonds of relationship.  Experiencing the serious, bursting with laughter or being in stillness all contribute to our sense of understanding each other.  Joy comes when we are physically reunited with long lost friends or upon meeting a new kindred spirit.

Relationships contain many aspects:  healthy boundaries; support and encouragement; silence; laughter; diversity; and unconditional acceptance.    We may find similarities in each other, but we are not clones.  We are unique individuals offering our gifts to each other.  Blended together, we can be rekindled, but in separation we remain very much our own person.

We find parts of our selves whether weak or strong, reflected in our friends.  The reflection encourages us to be more like it or makes us aware of the need to tone it down.  We can celebrate particular aspects of our friends while slowly realizing we, too, have those parts as well.  Each friend contains a spirit within holding a message for us.  In trust, we can learn major lessons or in fear, disappear.

Ones Who Know ...

“I am more than my scars.”

Andrew Davidson, The Gargoyle

Observing body language, studying faces, and noting details that make a person unique, are all favorite pass times of mine.  I have been a people watcher for as long as I can remember.  "What are you staring at kid?" taught me to be a bit more discreet at an early age.  I learned to sit with an open book in my lap as it was an excellent prop.  Then I graduated to journals where I really could record my observations.  I did not create this habit of studying others in order to replicate behavior, but rather to understand the actions of others.

It didn't take very long to recognize there are those who walk through life for the benefit of others.  They believe their appearance will be noticed by everyone.  The majority of people, however, were more distracted by the business around them, as though the last thought was about themselves.  Early on, they had learned to be smaller or invisible trying not to attract the attention of anyone.  Then there were those I most admired.  They were never alike in appearance which made the search more challenging.  They could be of any gender, shape, or nationality.  They gently were noticed for their radiating presence.  Just glancing at one of them gave the sense of kindness, openness, and compassion.  They appeared to be content with who they were and reflected their light out into the world.  It was not their intention to be seen, but rather to distribute a silent essence wherever they walked and to whomever they spoke.

These particular people were more than their scars.  They were not fear based nor trapped in a destructive emotional cycle that wore them down.  It was not confidence they displayed, but more like acceptance, trusting themselves to navigate from the light within.  I think of these people as 'the ones who know' ... we are all the same and worthy.

Beauty In My Soul



“To the people who love you, you are beautiful already. This is not because they’re blind to your shortcomings but because they so clearly see your soul. Your shortcomings then dim by comparison. The people who care about you are willing to let you be imperfect and beautiful, too."

Victoria Moran, LIT FROM WITHIN: TENDING YOUR SOUL FOR LIFELONG BEAUTY

In one fleeting moment, I feel the beauty within me.  It is just for a passing moment, but I experience a radiance from within shinning out towards all around me.  It is an instant of feeling connection with the Divine.  Realizing I am simply one flower in the field of several, I experience my uniqueness and allow myself to feel worthy. 

Imperfections fade when standing in the power of enlightenment.  Fear falls away and the glad tidings of being truly 'you' vibrate through the heart.  Standing tall, stretching to be fully present in a brief but glorious moment, life is worth living. 

The experiential vision passes, but the warm glow remains.  It is good to be me in this time and space.  The lapse in time has reassured me that bliss exists and simply waits for me.  For now, I can accept the beauty in my soul.

Rocker Has Come Undone

"I feel so attached to this old one, it's just so nostalgic!

But it would be special if the new one was from my momma!"

(Shared sentiments with my daughter)

Several years ago, I was still working and spending a lot of time traveling on the road.  I was not in a relationship, loved my job, and spent very little time nurturing myself.  As I was zipping along an old highway, I passed a country store with wicker furniture displayed outside.  As I drove by, I noticed a rocking chair and told myself, "You can stop on your way back." 

Amazing even my self, my car made a big old  u-turn and drove back to the shop.  I was well pleased.  I got out of the car and sat in the rocker, loving it immediately.  I paid the owner his requested fee and gently placed the new especially treated wicker rocker into my car. 

Like I said, that was years ago.  The rocker yearly sat on my covered porch while I spent endless hours reading by myself, with my daughter, and also with my granddaughter.  It was accompanied by a wooden porch swing gifted to me by a very long time dear friend. 

Over the years the rocking chair became a symbol of the hours shared together, so when it came time for me to move, my daughter quickly laid claim to it.  More years passed as she used it on her covered back patio, investing even more reading time.  Then it came time for her to move, but the chair easily found its new home on another lovely covered patio. 

As in all things, time wears down our exteriors.  In spite of preservation attempts, the rocker has come undone.  It is obvious that it needs replacement, but my daughter remains attached to this rocking friend of many years.  We will search for a new one perhaps for her birthday, keeping it a family tradition.  Sometimes, it is just plain hard to let things go! 

Hearts Stitched Together

When you're different, sometimes you don't see the millions of people who accept you for what you are. All you notice is the person who doesn't.”
Jodi Picoult, Change of Heart


There are so many angels in my life.  I laugh upon thinking this as the image of the angel from the movie MICHAEL with John Travolta comes to mind ... smoking, drinking, and disheveled!  My angels are diverse as well, none looking light a feathery delight!

My angels come in all sizes and personalities, but each one seems to intuitively know exactly when I need them.  I may receive a text, e-mail, or even a meet and greet just when I need it the most.  Some of them give the very best hugs.  The unspoken hugs that assure you that life will go one, no matter what you face in the moment.  Then there are the small communications spoken with the eyes.  The fleeting moment where two people are silently on the same page and understanding is exchanged in a lingering glance. 

When I send love, light, and energy to my angels, it is because I know how challenged some of them are.  Some are facing life opportunities or losses which I cannot even begin to imagine.  Others are contributing to the community in major ways in addition to managing a family home.  No matter what, they always have time for others, but at the expense of themselves.

Angels need to care for themselves.  They do better with self-nurturing and connections with their soul.  It is important for them to keep their own hopes and dreams rekindled and not to get lost in helping others.  All of these angels are unique in their own way ~ dancers, writers, teachers or students, leaders, and volunteers. 

My friends, the angels, are uniquely their own spirit.  They are original and creative, open to challenge and change.  When standing side by side, one might even wonder how they all are connected as they are so diverse.  They truly are their authentic selves, even though the unseen thread of unconditional love has stitched their hearts together.

The Intention of Wandering

"I may have wandered away, too far,

And I may not be, within reach.

I've wandered, yes, and I'm far from home,

But I'm safe on Destiny's Beach.'

ABSTRACT MUSINGS

Destiny's Beach

Judith LaHaie

Leaving the safety of one's home or comfort zone can be very challenging.  Even if we feel unsafe in our home, it is still difficult to leave no matter what age we happen to be.  Until we depart, however, whether physically or emotionally or even spiritually, we will put off arriving at our intended destination.  We become aware of our need to exit, travel, and arrive when we become aware of the yearning deep within.  We can ignore or squelch or repress this calling, but even when we think it has gone away, it is simply being patient and waiting for us to pay attention once again.

It is not easy to leave people, places or things, but unless we shed what is familiar, there is no room for the new.  Whether we acknowledge the inner voice or ignore it, experiences continue to extend and strengthen our desires or whims.  We all travel differently.  Some claim they have known since early childhood that they would one day do this or that, and indeed they have.  Others have searched aimlessly for purpose only to find it when they stop looking. 

When we remain sheltered from other ways of life, from different routines, and diversity of thoughts, we have nothing to test our truth against.  We know only our belief and it remains unchallenged; therefore, we fail to experience a sense of growth and deeper understanding.

This wandering is not to rearrange what we believe, nor is it the intention to cause you to disbelieve.  When we expose ourselves what we hold dear either grows stronger with the test of time or we expand our understanding.  As we travel roadways, we learn more about compassion, acceptance and how very much we are all the same.  Wandering is about awakening each of us to each other.  Not necessarily to band together, but to lead us to honoring and respecting the ways of others. 

We may become distracted, but we are never really lost as we journey.  We are not running away from anything, but running towards our passion and purpose.  And once we feel as though we have 'arrived', it is not the end of the trail.  When our travel resonates with our yearnings and our desires begin to align, our work is just beginning.

The Colors We Wear

"Character contributes to beauty.

It fortifies a woman as her youth fades. A

mode of conduct, a standard of courage,

discipline, fortitude and integrity can do a

great deal to make a woman beautiful."

Jacqueline Bisset

1946

English Actress

Life is like water colors.  If one uses too many at one time, the colors appear to be muddy and dark.  If we do not use enough color, there is too much transparency.  An artist develops a sense of balance between his or her strokes of the brush, just as individuals, learn to blend color in each day.

As children, the artist within uses bright bold colors.  There are no restrictions for them even when the teacher reprimands to color within the lines or ponies are not purple!  It isn't until we are older that we pay more attention to what color is appropriate for which occasion.  Heels and hats to church, never pants.  No wearing of white after labor day or prior to Easter.  Black is reserved for the severity of death and mourning.  Such restrictions we allow to be placed upon us.  No wonder there was great laughter when a woman's poem was published about 'when I grow old, I shall wear purple!"

Artists learn the appropriateness of balancing color, just as we learn to distribute color into our lives.  We have individual choices as to what colors appeal to us more than others.  And colors vibrate different energies as well.  When I was a child, I was told never to paint a bathroom lavendar as it caused constipation.  Now, that has to be a classic! 

Before my daughter could make choices for dressing herself, I was amused to grow aware of how I dressed her in the exact color I happened to be wearing that day.  Not to be matching at all.  It was a projection of how I translated my moods into colors and then passed them on to her.  Become aware of how the colors we choose reflect how we feel as it can be fun and interesting.

As the years pass, our experience with color deepens and becomes richer.  Our daring with colors reflects how we have learned to embrace life ... distracting, hiding, or celebrating.  Eventually we realize our true radiance comes from within and not from what we wear.  Our radiance is an overall blending of the colors from suffering, challenge, and the courage to move forward.  Bravery and wisdom are the colors the elderly wear and they wear them well.

Twist the Roles

"My sister was rescued from a ditch.  Her bus crashed while crossing over a bridge in Cameroon, Africa. She was going there to help teach and ended up being pulled from death by a kind stranger who happened to be traveling behind the bus.  I will never forget how quickly she went from being there as a helper to desperately needing the help of others." 

FIND YOUR WAY HOME
by the Women of Magdalene
with Becca Stevens

There is a rhythm to life of giving and taking, of offering and receiving, and of gain and loss.  There is an unseen grid to life loosely overseeing the balance and projecting love.  These things I do believe.

It is of interest to me when I come across a true story of someone who believes they are going to assist a person in need, but in the end they are the person who gathers the most.  It is in our giving or intention of sharing that often times twists the roles between the helper and the one to be assisted.  It is in the giving that we often unexpectedly receive.

So it is not only with our intention, but with opening our hearts to be vulnerable, to recognize an opportunity to provide a need to someone with no strings attached.  It is noticing a person whether wealthy or poor who finds themselves unable to meet there immediate need.  We often react without even thinking about what we can do and sometimes even endanger ourselves.  There seems to be a recognition of human being to human being. 

Just recently I read a story about a women who was very unsettled in her life, so she decided to go a foreign country to 'save' the suffering from a small town.  She felt enthusiasm for her new calling of being a person of 'rescue'.  And of course, the people of the impoverished town, taught her an appreciation for basic life without attachments to material things and status.  She made one trip back to her home to settle her business affairs, quit her job, and lease her apartment.  She donated the majority of her belongings and permanently returned to the small foreign town that provided her with acceptance, peace, calm, and connection with Divine Spirit she had always desired.

The concept of being a verb rather than a noun appeals to me.  If we are living life as a noun, we are stationary and waiting for life to happen to us, for God to come into our lives.  If we practice being a verb, Divine Spirit can move us into situations offering experiences to deepen our existence and the existence of others.  We must open ourselves by being aware of the needs of others and provide what we can, as we never know when we may need a reaching hand.

Gardeners of Life

"A plant is a weed only within a certain context;

one person's weed is another person's wildflower."

Madisyn Taylor

Messengers from The Wilderness

Weeds



We are the gardeners of our life.  We need to have vigilance while weeding our plot in life so the weeds do not choke out our dreams.  We have to enrichen our personal growing space with exposure to inspiration and fertilization through sifting through ancient wisdom. 

While all of this is good and true, we must also be mindful what we consider weeds very well may be someone else's favorite blossom.  What is our discard is another person's treasure.  So we are really respecting and honoring our personal choice as well as the choices of others. 

No garden is ever the same which encourages us to be wildly creative with color, design, and originality.  Even if our intention is to copy, the end result is always marked in some slight way by our unique print.  As gardeners, we must be careful where we plant our seeds.  We cannot toss them into the darkness or out of the realm of rain drops.  There must be sunshine and even the tears help in our growth.  We must withstand the storms and tolerate the hail, believing that we will eventually blossom into radiant life.

The Art of Arrival

"It is the art of arrival.  Of being in one, only one, place at one time. Of absorbing it with all of your senses.  Its beauty, its ugliness, its singularity.  Of allowing oneself to be overwhelmed, fearlessly.  The art of being where you are."   A WELL-TEMPERED HEART by Jan-Phillip Sendker

It sounds so easy, but it truly can be a challenge to remain in one moment.  It takes discipline and yet a way of letting go.  To be a pipe with wind blowing thoughts through the mind without getting stuck.  To not reference the past to have meaning in the present.  To not stray into the future robbing the self of the individual moment.  As Eckhart Tolle would say, TO BE HERE NOW.

When we think of our lovely self, right here, right now, there is no room for criticism, regret, or hesitation.  There is almost a bliss that is found in the slightest of moments.  Here I am!  Right here in this space of time with no where to go, no where to be ... to just be.  One can feel the stress sliding away and loving warm light spreads through the soul.  We can bask in this moment of acceptance and feel joy.

Happiness can be as simple as that ... experiencing the moment.  Just imagine how different our attitudes could be if we created the art of using all of our senses at one time.  We could be instantly uplifted and nurtured without expense or reservation.  Release memory and ignore anticipation to fully experience each moment of the present.  This is where we are meant to be.  Just breathe!

Sunshine in Our Soul

"All the music I write is a search for myself."

Bruce Hornsby

Although we are not always cognizant of it, all stages of life are a search for our true self.  We have little seeds growing within us needing to be stimulated by additional nurturing.  Ideas once cultivated stretch and grow.  We are our own gardener, plucking weeds from our rich soil.  In haste we may pull an entire pod of dreams right out, casting it as though it were a weed.  With hindsight, we realize that we had discarded the potential for a magical moment.

Some years, we may grow one agenda of ideas while in other years, we may nurture something entirely different.  We rotate the soil learning through draught and flood.  In time we gather enough experience to guide us with balance for a bumper crop.

No matter what stage of life we happen to be experiencing, there is always something new to discover.  We come across an age old held desire or a new sprout of inspiration.  As seasoned gardeners, we can plant what we know will produce happiness or as young whipper-snappers we can have the courage to experience anew. 

We are responsible for what we cultivate in our lives.  Where we place our focus, passion, and desire is where we will discover our results.  If we are unhappy with our crop, then we need to plant something new.

A gardener is creative, and attentive, with plenty of follow through.  Do not let weeds choke out inner dreams that need space to grow with protection.  Allow plenty of sunshine in our soul!

Fill in the Blanks

Somehow, in our modern civilization, we have acquired the idea that the mind is working best when it runs at top speed. Yet a racing mind lacks time even to finish a thought, let alone to check on its quality. When we slow down the mind, we work better at everything we do. Not only is the quality of our work better, we are actually able to get more done. A calm, smooth-running flow of thought saves a lot of wear and tear on the nervous system, which means we have more vitality and resilience in the face of stress.

The Thought for the Day is today's entry from Eknath Easwaran's

It is truly amazing that Americans have learned a great deal from its culture, and yet, some of what we have embraced tends to harm us more than help.  As Americans, we have learned to decrease the time required to complete certain tasks.  We have made major improvements in lessening travel time.  Unfortunately, the extra time acquired has been refilled with even more work.  Statistics show that Americans spend even more time working than before modern conveniences.

Time management teaches us to slate required tasks of the day onto our agenda for each day of the week.  It does occur that some days need extended time to accomplish our work as well as allowing the last of it
to slide over to the next day ... but not to be brought home.  On the other hand, when we do attain accomplishments during a day, we are told not to fill in the extra time with even more work.  We are told that when we utilize and unexpected break in time, we return more mentally prepared to finish the remainder of the day.

Experts also suggest we leave spaces in our agenda, no matter how brief, to step away from our work just to stretch giving both our body and mind a break.  These small interruptions are not for business calls or things added to the agenda.  They are small oppoprtunities to just 'be' so that we can be refreshed when returning to our work.

We are creatures of habit doing this 'fill-in the blanks' throughout our day no matter if we are an apprentice, at the peak of our career or retired.  We have been programed 'to keep profitably busy'.  The truth is we will remain more alert and task oriented when we do take small intermissions.  Small diversions increase our awareness and heighten our alertness.  Consider the options for improvement ... they are endless!

Sky Still Blue

Virginia, next time you feel really hurt, really angry, or really, really upset, and you're sure that even I have been violated, shaken, and humbled, quick, check and see if the sky is any less blue, the sun any less radiant, the birds have stopped singing, or the flowers have lost their scent. I'll wager you'll find that life has gone on much as before. Too consumed by the powers of now and the inevitabilities of love, understanding, and eternal life to have even missed a beat. Oh-wee-oh, The Universe Worrying takes us down a long deep path of darkness, using our energy for thoughts of strife.    As negative energy pounds through our nerves, other physical symptoms occur.  None of this will change the course or direction of chaos.  It simply fills us with fear leaving us feeling totally vulnerable. The amazing thing, is when we take positive action and address what we truly have access  to, while doing our best to move forward.  When we turn our thoughts to positive intentions, and seek the potential for good, our body experiences an easier toll.   Even when we know we cannot control what is done or what will be done, the common factor is life still moves forward.  The sun shines and the sky is blue no matter how chaotic life appears.  It is when we can embrace the now and take positive action that we will be more capable of maintaining some sense of balance.

Unowned Anger



"When I was talking to a teenager today, I asked, 'What makes you  most angry with grown ups?'  Without hesitation she answered, 'I hate it when my parents say, Don't talk back!'  I hate it when they yell at me before I can tell my side of the story.  I think I should have a chance to explain things, even when I am wrong."  

Women and Stress

Jean Lush with Pam Vredevelt


All of us would probably readily agree about feeling angry when we are disallowed to share our perception.  Whether it is a parent, a superior or a boss, it feels very uncomfortable to be squelched.  When we take on some one else' anger, we begin to personalize the exchange rather than realizing we are the recipient of anger which is not ours.  Feeling attacked, we try to respond in anger.

This works both ways so it is important to listen to another person's opinion whether we agree or disagree.  It is a way of honoring a person or showing respect.  We are not really responsible to respond at all.  Ekhart Tolle would say we could simply reply, "ahh ... " and we would have it all covered.

Often times, just letting the other person vent without interruption leads them to a complete circle where they can become aware of the inappropriateness of their rant.  They can then apologize and even share what is truly at the core.

A very successful tactic in resolving issues is asking a person lower in rank or lesser of age what they think of a situation.  The gap between is often filled by creative 'out of the box' thinking.  Responses may be more original or authentic than our tried and true diplomacy.

Everyone wants to be heard, as well as understood. Even when results end in disagreement, it does the spirit good to know that we have at least been heard.  We all have one mouth, and two ears ....
interesting

Blowing Smoke

"It's a fact that it is much more

comfortable to be in the position of the

person who has been offended than to be

the unfortunate cause of it."

Barbara Walters

Human growth and development offer us many occasions to learn about hurting others and being hurt.  It is a sad reflection in a way, that we would prefer to be the person hurt rather than the one doing the damage.  We rationalize why we got our feelings hurt.  We make excuses to soften the blow. Forgiveness for others seems so much more available, than when we need to forgive ourselves.

We tend to be harder on ourselves, and I wonder why that is.  Our ego raging with our inner critic pollutes our self-esteem.  Not only once, but over and over we tread upon the sore pots left unhealed. We do not expend the same amount of compassion towards our selves than we do towards others.

It is also unfortunate that we harbor our errors long after the event.  Other people have moved forward with grace, as we continue to flog ourselves.  Not only do we focus on our error, but we collapse into every other error in the history of our life.  So a mistake snowballs into personal failure.

Meantime, we are spreading negative energy not only through our own body, but into areas we visit.  Our vibrations can harshly impact anyone around us, allowing the dark cloud to spread.  If we remain stuck in our emotional attack, not only our emotions, but our bodies too begin to feel heavy and sluggish.

This all ties in to staying in the moment.  Try to acknowledge what error was made, and then move on using energy to forgive the self and others involved.  We gracefully move into clear fresh air rather than polluting. We do not linger where the ego and the critic  attack.  Learn, clear the air, and move on projecting positive energy where all of us can breathe fresh air.

Entering the River

"For the raindrop,

joy is in entering the river."

Sufi Prophet Ghalib

In his book, THE BOOK OF AWAKENING, Mark Nepo references how as children we feel a connection with all things, but as we continue to develop we begin to distinguish ourselves from our family, friends, and teachers.  Yet, we then do everything to fit in with our peers and once again make efforts to carve out our individuality.  For many years of our life, we carry one world inside and participate in yet another on the outside.  Eventually, we learn to integrate our inner spirit with our outer personality and yearn to become one with Divine Spirit.

The joy we experience during our lives is often times temporary and can be quite fleeting.  It can be said pleasure in manifesting things or events can never be everlasting.  The joy we create in our heart through sincere relationship with the Divine, can last an eternity.  

Mark Nepo shares, "In those moments of Oneness, we, as drops of spirit, join the larger river of spirit."  When we can readily embrace our connection with God and all things, we feel gathered, but also an important piece to the whole.  Completeness requires all of us to return to our center, to our Divine within who is the same Spirit throughout the world.  It is when we all join together in Oneness (not sameness), we create together the whole.  Individual raindrops entering the river.