Absence of Courage

"Discouragement is not the absence of adequacy,

but the absence of courage."

Neal A. Maxwell

When faced with a challenge, it is easy to become discouraged.  If we are not mastering the lesson, fear may move in evicting our confidence.  When our emotions are splattered across our minds, we have little focus and are likely to fault ourselves with inadequacy.

When we are extremely critical of our lovely selves, we tend to accept the absence of solution is based upon our personal lack of ability.  Lists of faults or imperfections may flow from our pen disallowing creative ideas from taking shape.

If we can take pause, filling our lungs with deep breaths and our minds with stillness, we are able to explore fresh possibilities.  Options may create a greater sense of possibilities than the original idea.  All we need is courage to see the situation working in an affirmative way.

Nothing But Love

"If in loving, I become the naked woman on the horse,

I will ride that horse with my head held high." 

 C. JoyBell C.   

I have removed my mask and shed my cloak.  My feet are bare, with a golden halo as my crown.  I grasp the extended hand, to love, share, and expand.  My eyes no longer behold the fear of harm, as I am protected by strong arms, wisdom and laughter.  

A trust worthy companion by my side, we explore the rising sun and follow the birds in flight.  We no longer face strangers and worry less about our plight, as we believe in the goal finally in our sight.  As the sun falls from the sky, we nestle in warm covers reflecting upon the life unexpectedly wedged between our dark nights.

Through the window of our souls, we gaze at the moon and whisper to the stars.  The falling stardust sprinkles mystery and visions, leaving plenty of room for mischievous games.  I have found there is no shame in becoming that naked lady on the horse with nothing but love to my name.

  

Listen and Learn

"If you want to be understood, listen."

Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu

Crows were screeching, as I wandered down the solitary path.  I glanced over to a neighboring  tree and the top branches were filled with the cawing crows.  I did not  welcome them on my silent commune with nature; but it is so like life, trying to remain peaceful in the midst of chaos.

Soon, I spotted a hawk gently gliding in the sky.  In spite of having some sense of direction, the hawk (symbol of forthcoming message) peacefully went with the flow of the wind.  The bird was content to just be, flying the cloud filled blue sky.

I realized my preference to the hawk rather than the crows.  The crows were all talking at once without listening to each other.  I wanted freedom to fly, to be self-contained, and not draw attention to my self.  I wanted to hear any message, in hopes the new wisdom would help me understand life's purpose.  I really wanted to just listen and learn.

Sudden Knowing

"We sometimes have a flash of understanding that amounts to the insight of genius,

and yet it slowly withers, even in our hands ... like a flower.  The form remains, but

the colors and the fragrance are gone."  

Robert Musil

In the midst of a walk in nature, a thought takes form expanding our senses and deepening our awareness; but within a flash, it is gone.  Deep in meditation, we encounter an unknown realm that resonates within us; but quickly disappears.  During a dream, a solution to an on going problem surfaces; but only rests on the tip of our tongue when we awaken.

It is deeply confusing to have our senses stimulated wide awake, but not retain the reason.  What is the purpose to have a flash of understanding if it does not linger at least for awhile?  Isn't like receiving a box of candy without the candy or an ice cream cone without any ice cream?

Like a crystal, we are multi-sided.  In every instant we are absorbing information with varying combinations of our senses.  All insights find a home within us, waiting for the perfect time to appear when our mind is least expecting it.  Even if we do not remember every curious aspect, the wisdom  flows through the filters enhancing the mind.


  

Hoarding Books

"To know a man's library is,

in some measure,

to know a man's mind."

Geraldine Brooks

When visiting a friend's house, it is an honor to be allowed to browse through his or her books.  The collections reflect a lot about personal interest.  The expansive topics demonstrate how broad the mind has traveled.   It is amusing to identify similar tastes and surprising to discover differences.

One of my dearest friends, Sharron, shared how she had downsized her book shelves.  She generously gifted certain books to particular friends, distributed diverse books to the local library and gave numerous others to the used book store.  I admired her generosity, but shuddered at the thought of releasing any of my own.

My books are close friends, pockets of escape, and endless resources.  Each book has been underlined, highlighted, and notes written in the margins.  I randomly refer to my books for moral support, inspiration, and companionship.  Real or imaginary, characters have been invited into my home and willingly they came.  I can't imagine parting with a single one.

Down the Drain

"Conquer the angry one by not getting angry;

conquer the wicked by goodness;

conquer the stingy by generosity,

and the liar by speaking the truth."

Gautama Buddha

When a person is triggered by anger, his or her energy can easily engage with our own.  We can prevent this by simply standing in our own awareness.  The angry person may be entitled, but we are not under any obligation to join forces.  It is not our experience and we have choice as to how we respond.

An acquaintance  may take advantage of our good heart, but this is on them.  We choose how to react ... with forgiveness or revenge.  The lesson may be for us to remain in our own goodness, while seeking out other kindred spirits upholding similar values.

We all lie, especially to ourselves.  If we tell a falsehood enough, we will soon believe it to be true.  How wonderful if we could at the end of the day take a shower washing away all negativity.  We could watch darkness swirl around and disappear down the drain.

Simplicity, Goodness and Truth

"There is no greatness where there is not

simplicity, goodness, and truth."

Leo Tolstoy

A beloved friend shares an encounter as she bubbles with enthusiasm and overflows with excitement. This sister of my heart highlights the actions of others ... simplicity, goodness truth,  ... and lessens her own contribution.

The greatness of a story evolves around integrity, compassion and courage.   If the tale is created around a braggart hero, ego interrupts the natural flow of unfolding.  It downplays the goodness of others and falsely elevates the bravado of one.

It is important for each individual to shine, but there is more light when we gather with others and illuminate the world together.  When each person contributes value or worth the frequency of energy becomes stronger and vibrations attract more helpful souls. Together we are drawn forward.

Little Bit of Goodness

"Do your little bit of goodness where you are;

it's those little bits of good put together that

overwhelm the world."

Desmond Tutu

 When I look at people, I see inner goodness and tend to focus upon it.  We are all born with this spark of light and we either build upon it or not.  I am often drawn to those who have hidden their light.  I instinctively know it is there, but it has been buried beneath chosen debris.  Exchanging conversations in depth,  the hardness cracks and shards of warm light begin to peek out.  I catch a glimpse of the goodness within.

Individuals soften when they experience inner goodness again.  They are reminded of moments of compassion, courage, and hope.  Unfortunately, life has treated them with extreme harshness and in defense, he or she hides goodness by wearing a false bravado.  The bravado may succeed in warning off bad things, but it stifles the light as well.  It is even more unfortunate when life becomes so brutal it generates total withdrawal in fear. Without protection from life itself, one hovers in a dark and stagnant existence.

It is a spiritual challenge for me to face a fellow human being and discover a thread of conversation leading back to when the heart was open. To reflect my inner light to an individual, emotions will stir and hopefully trigger the desire to realign emotional reality.  First comes the smile, then a genuine laugh, and then a nugget of an earlier personality.  As sincere appreciation for this child of God, I attempt to hold the heart open long enough to allow original identity and yearnings to surface.  A reflection of our inner goodness uplifts us all.

Built in Resources

"At the end of the day it's about how much you can bear,

how much you can endure.  Being together, we harm

nobody; being apart, we extinguish ourselves."

Tabitha Suzuma

In the midst of crisis, we have a tendency to withdraw embarrassed, intimidated or filled with fear.  The more we isolate our lovely selves, the deeper we fall into darkness.  The power of life can crush us.  

When we are not at our best, we feel caged or trapped in our despair.  It takes great effort to imagine a solution.  When we are not aligned emotionally,  resolution escapes us.

If we have a support system in place, we will work our way through chaos.  The resources can be a mentor or a circle of friends or a daily mindful regime.  Both a personal practice and  spiritual guidance directs us back into life rather than pushing us into separation, loneliness, and devastation.  

Dreams and Passions Awaken in the Spring

"The deep roots never doubt spring will come." 

Marty Rubin

Dreams have deep roots in our unconscious.   In sleep, night time landscapes show us what we repress during the day.  What we avoid when we are awake, presents itself once again hoping it will be recognized for the message it contains.

Personal passions have a deep root system as well.  No matter how busy or removed we are from creative longings, we must keep them well nurtured.  Perhaps we do not have the time to invest full throttle in a passion, but we can keep it breathing by visiting mini resources,  keeping our imaginations crisp and believable.

An element of time eventually appears as our spring.  The ground is rich and our roots begin to push up into our daily conscious.  We begin to be uplifted by new fragrances or colors to expand what we create.  We pull out the self-imposed barriers or weeds preventing our growth.  Ah spring! Deep down we have been yearning to blossom into spring.  

Vision and Perception

"Seeing the obvious is often harder

than seeing the hidden."

Mehmet Murat ildan

When we walk through our memories, we notice snippets of information, previously overlooked.  As we sink into past scenarios, bodily sensations can alert us with striking emotion which was originally felt as numbness. 

Think of riding on a carousel. As we gently move with fantasy music, do we notice the excitement in our body or admire the artistic hand painted work or feel inspired by being present in the moment ... no, we are usually focused on the blur of people just so we can wave ... missing the simple joy of the moment.

We overhear ourselves telling stories about loving to swim when the thought of wearing a bathing suit is revolting.  The word no is reverberating in our mind as we shake our head yes.  To avoid what is right before us, we lavish avoidance to assist denial in diluting the truth before us. 

Set Free Inner Light

"You have the nicest window, you know?

None of the others can even compete.

It's not flashy like the others, or bleary ...

your window gives of this nice, quiet light."

Banana Yoshimoto

Open the window of your soul and allow radiant light to  shine through.  Let others be drawn to the vibrant color and mesmerized by the rhythm.  Hide not even one note from your cadence, as people are waiting to march to a different drummer.

Hidden frequencies begin to stir as they tune into the elevated happiness of kindred souls.  The sharpness of the sudden reflection attracts the eyes while the heart adjusts its beat to the new sound.  Feet gather, forming circles in unison swaying first to the left and then the right.

When we set free our inner light, the world takes on a freshness with sparkling beauty.  We may join a sun beam or become a shooting star; flicker as a candle light or roar as the fire's flame.   The best of the best, however,  is to let others see through our windows embracing who we truly are.

The Wounded Soul

"she is clothed with strength and dignity

and laughs without fear of the future."

Proverbs 31.25

Mentors have impacted my life many times over, and teachers have intervened when I wast lost in chaos.  These gracious spirits faced struggles in their own lives which enabled them to recognize the need for discretionary intervention. 

I remember gentle words spoken to me with kindness and stern support.  The words slithered into my heart rekindling a spark of hope.  The interest invested into me gave me courage to keep moving forward.  I did not dare to think beyond the muddle of present day.

Wherever we are in life, we need to be treated with dignity and respect.  When we are graciously gathered into any equation, with laughter breaking stress and fear, we advance together. Simple recognition such as loving eye contact strengthens and dignifies.   

The Old Cycle

"...there are times when it takes much more strength

to know when to let go and then do it."

Ann Landers

Early spring flowers seem to know when to push up through the ground, as do the buds of flowering trees.  In the autumn,  colored leaves begin to fall as if on schedule.  During the human journey, the time for letting go and rebirth do not seem to be as easy.

In life we may have the awareness of brokenness, but not accompanying strength to mend it.  The act of holding pieces together may drain every ounce of energy with none remaining for repair.   When knowledge indicates it is time to let go, it is indeed difficult to relax the fingers allowing the pieces to fall landing with a hollow clatter.

Change asks us to expand our energy, thoughts, and deeds.  It suggests a slice of hope for better things to come.  During this transition, trust for new birth can be most challenging, as decay still clings to our hands.  The act of  following through is the most vital.  Without stepping forward, the old cycle simply begins again.

When Angels Sing

 "Confront the dark parts of yourself, and work to banish them with illumination and forgiveness.  Your willingness to wrestle with your demons will cause your angels to sing."  August Wilson


Darkness can occur as quickly as a violent storm.  Winds blow away layers of protection, exposing raw emotion we may have not known we had.  Thunder can shake our very bones as cold tears streak down our face.

We grow disoriented and wander deeper into the eye of the storm.  Perhaps we hold our breath, waiting for the lightning to illuminate a path to safety.  Debris is all around us and we wonder if we shall ever have the strength to venture forward.

The darkness of the storm passes as quickly as it blew in.  We extradite our demons and speculate what damage has occurred.  We pick splinters out of our flesh as we offer forgiveness for ourselves and others as we wait for the angels to sing.

Curtain Drops Away

"I feel like a curtain has dropped away

and I'm seeing people for who they really are,

different and sharp and unknowable."

Lauren Oliver

We spend our life time trying to define our true self .  We dive to the depths of our  interior turning every aspect upside down and sideways in hopes of discovering truth.  We arrange our story, switching characters, and creating new outcomes.  Do we ever fit all of the pieces together?

We engage in relationships to learn lessons and receive  messages, but how well do we know these messengers?  To what level do we extend gracious unfolding to others?  Do we invite them in to rest, reflect, and discover what makes them shine?

They, too, are wounded, suffering and evolve, but do we see their transition or do we hold mini snap shots of their contribution.  When we allow the curtain to fall to the side, we can extend appreciation and gratitude for all of the unseen.

Chipping from a Wall

"When people don't express themselves,

they die one piece at a time."

Laurie Halse Anderson

When we are silenced, we die a little bit at a time.  As we are squelched by others,  we are minimized.  When we do not feel respected or valued, we hide our existence in the world.

No one enjoys a 'know it all' or a loud mouth, but each of us has the right to speak our truth ... even if we mumble it under our breath.  Our self-imposed silence will send us screaming madly into the night.  

The thoughts streaming through our head need to be prioritized and then released.  Our deepest repressed words can be splattered against a canvass or a music score.  We must not let our lovely selves die piece by piece like chipping from a wall.  

Messy or Disgruntled

"Highly sensitive people are too often perceived as weaklings or damaged goods.  

To feel intensely is not a symptom of weakness, 

it is the trademark of the truly alive and compassionate."  

Anthon St. Maarten

There is an abundance of acceptance and encouragement from my friends, but the world continues to frighten and threaten me with change beyond my control.  My heart is more vulnerable than ever as it has finally broken open while my feet remain firmly on the ground preparing to embrace what I feel.   

My tears of disappointment are not a sign of weakness.  They are an outpouring of deep compassion for all the souls sleeping in ignorance.  There is a burden of sadness for those who are trying so hard to let their light shine in this darkness.

To use our voice  shouting out loud or through the written word  we become authentic and alive.  We may feel messy or disgruntled, but being present with our emotions can encourage others. I am not ashamed to weep as I boldly stand with my light until the dark passes.  

The Best Me

"The privilege of a lifetime

is to become who you truly are."

C.G. Jung

With floating flowers, soft music, and numerous candles, the body relaxes while sitting in a tub of hot water.  The mind relaxes while being in nature with a slight breeze, warm sunshine, and delicate fragrances.  When aligned and balanced through visualization, prayer or meditation, the spirit enhances all things into one. 

When we are in alignment, we can readily explore what challenges are preventing us from moving forward.  We can determine fear and where it originated.  Clarity helps us to reframe in positive ways in order to transition.

We are wanting to be true to our authentic selves, to be comfortable in our own skin, and to bring forward our gifts and talents into the world.  We want to be able to face God/Goddess in the end sharing, "I was the best me!"

Invest My Time

"We have to dare to be ourselves,

however frightening or strange

that self may prove to be."

May Sarton

As I wandered the aisles, art work caught my eye.  Immediate reactions came in the forms of honor, respect, and amazement.  There were a few pieces I revered just for the sake of art while others stimulated a desire for my own creative process.

As the afternoon passed by, I began to realize how my eyes floated over once admired work.  I was surprised past objects of interest no longer held my attention.  I was being drawn to unfamiliar designs and colors.

I know my lovely self very well and monitor my heart regularly, so this shift was a surprise for me.  When had I changed?  Then it occurred to me to not place energy in who I used to be, but to invest my time into the unfolding of who I now want to be.

Activate The Call

"As we learn about the ancient Goddess religion and cultures,

we get to re-evaluate the information that has come to us through

patriarchal sources.  We start to wake up to the fact that everything

that was written about us is without us."

Tabby Biddle

FIND YOUR VOICE:  A WOMAN'S CALL TO ACTION

Christianity minimized the role of the feminine, as patriarchs attempted to keep women in their place.  Like the dandelion, feminine energy surfaces through the smallest of spaces.  When we are willing to accept our personal power, the feminine energy flows with compassion, empathy, forgiveness, and strength.

We gather knowledge through the discovery of self and it turns to wisdom as it is applied peacefully to life.  There is no room for judgement as the deep yearning for connection embraces all.  We prosper together not in competition, but through support and encouragement.

Our voices must be used to create our own stories.  We need to speak up and claim what is ours and reject the critical projections of others.  Vitally important, we continue to carry our light into our darkness to align our strengths and eliminate thoughts, words, and deeds inaccurately lodged in memory.  Allow the feminine self to activate the call in others.

Continue Forward

"You are magnificent beyond measure,

perfect in your imperfections,

and wonderfully made." 

Abiola Abrams

Abiola Abrams states, "You are magnificent beyond measure, perfect in your imperfections, and wonderfully made."  Imagine how core values would be shaped if a child heard this encouragement every morning.  As the child falls asleep, the last words heard are of praise and forgiveness deepening the sense of worth.

In defining our  purpose, we spend years in search, ignoring the yearnings of our heart.  We think some day the inner voices will be followed.  The scope of purpose narrows as we finally turn inward to the heart of the matter.

We must whisper to our inner child,  "You are amazing.  Keep imagining!"  It is only when we align our inner worlds with our outside living that we begin to soar.  As we recognize our sacred center, we are able to accept our short comings and continue forward with our strengths.

Harsh Dark Footsteps

"Her heart was pure, and also kind,

And I ... should not have acted blind."

Will Advise

Powerful women find themselves under the feet of unappreciative men.  These powerful women assume the fault of the unhealthy relationship  and endeavor to fix the unappreciative men.  In spite of  power, women assume a weakness when they cannot successfully make another person happy.  

Powerful women falsely believe they are supreme in wearing masks to hide disappointment, disrespect, or loneliness; while not realizing the deficient partner simply doesn't care.  They will pay the price of depression, exhausting themselves for the sake of others.

The feminine spirit is exceptionally powerful.  Boundaries are necessary to protect the creative pulse.  To look inside in search of gifts, talents, and strengths  women can discern the path best followed.  The path is her own, not over trodden by the harsh dark footsteps of others.

Visualize Safe Haven

(Beloved Hannah, Nashville, TN)

                                                                When I was small - I sought a home,
                                                                   A place to go and rest my bones.
                                                                                  Will Advise 

Everyone needs a sanctuary whether it is illusionary or physical.  For some, the ocean's waves are lulling while others escape into the setting sun.  Silence is sought whether in a forest or a secret garden.  The importance is found in utilizing sacred space.

In the midst of the chaos, we must create a safe place protected from harsh energies, critical assault, and the sadness of life.  There needs to be a small pocket of protection where we can rest our weary hearts, even for a moment.

If our safe haven is a physical space, it is helpful to strengthen the ability to imagine being there. Through visualization, we can step into our favorite place, absorb strength to carry on,  and experience the connection with what we hold dear.

Escorted into Spring

"...winter will be forced to relent, once again, 

to the new beginnings of soft greens, 

longer light, and the sweet air of spring." 

Madeleine M. Kunin

Winter is the sound of crackling logs in the fireplace; the physical comfort of a favorite chair and warm blanket; both a book and a journal; accompanied by a cup of  hot beverage.  As the cold winter winds blow through the trees, the warmth of our heart is contained in reverie.

Winter is an isolating time whether physically or just mentally.  We tend to limit our social engagements and increase time spent in memory.  It is a time to carry our light into the darkness, accepting what we cannot change and preparing to create whatever we can.

Light increases with the forthcoming of spring.  As buds form on branches and sprouts push up from the earth, a sense of new beginnings create the stirring of unidentified hope.  Anticipation gently spreads through our thoughts and we feel new energy escort us into spring.

Hard Heartedness of Winter

"The heart can get really cold

if all you've known is winter."

Benjamin Alire Saenz

When we are closed in on ourselves, we miss the arcing flame kindled by a kindred spirit.  Frozen by existing wounds, rarely is the spirit willing to be vulnerable yet, once again.  With great courage, we can exit the cold winds of winter.  

Tender passion felt in the spring  melts the hardness in the heart and the flow washes barriers and invalid stories away.  Rinsing encourages baby sprouts to push through from the darkness, into the light.  The fragrance of hope lingers in the air.

As each day moves us closer to the sun, shed the winter coverings and unlock the gated heart. Discover discarded tools and polish them until they brightly shine.  Stand in the warmth of new beginnings, leaving the frost bites of winter behind.

Clarity of Vision

"People are seen through the stained 

glass window of our imagination."

Erik Pevernagle

We hide our selves from others, but we still want to be seen.  A certain level of recognition lifts our spirits, but too much attention is uncomfortable.  A soothing balance is experienced with kindred spirits, calming atmospheres and uplifting experiences.

We view others with preconceived ideas or generalities, missing the personal spark they have to offer. It is when we truly listen to the message being spoken and open our hearts with nonjudgment that we become aware of individual essence.

Remove fear from exchanges and be amazed at the value shining out from others. Still the mind to be open in the present moment and discover a newness in each situation.  We expand and deepen our relationships with compassionate eye contact, not by gazing through rose colored glasses.

Artistic Follow Through

"Some people have a hidden richness waiting to be discovered. They don't advertise it, but it's there for those willing to scratch beneath the surface."   John Mark Green

Beneath the surface simmers an interest we hide from others. It may be as simple as coloring with crayons, markers and colored pencils or strenuous as hot yoga. We may not disclose to others our private investment in flute lessons or enrolling in a photography class. Whether it is residue from childhood wishes or sudden insightful desires, we owe it to ourselves to follow through.

Artistic pause accelerates growth in other areas. As we dip our thoughts into colorful fancies, we interrupt mundane thinking and insert new perspectives. Our soul is uplifted by creative expression which impacts our attitudes and life styles. 

Creative moments awaken us to beauty.   Shadows and hues impact our moods.  Listen to the changing cadence in music and feel the body respond in positive rhythm. As we welcome various forms of beauty into our routines, the hours turn into strokes of genius.

Intent and Outcome

"In the serenity and quiet of this lovely place, touch the depths of truth, feel the hem of Heaven. And when you leave, don't forget why you came."  Osksana Rus 

A silent retreat or the presence of a mentor bring our emotions into alignment with our desires. We release stress by the simple act of attendance.  We are washed anew by the essence which surrounds us.  Clarity pushes through our fears and illusions,  creating new found joy.

When we open our hearts and minds to discover the deeper meaning of life, our eyes see through new lenses, our ears discern new communication and our bodies become healthier. Calm and peace flow freely as we view each other as kindred spirits.

If we allow time to recognize authentic gifts and talents, we find less reason to judge. Personal worthiness breeds security and respect for each other. Whether a retreat or an experience with a mentor, new understanding escorts us home. As we return to the busyness of daily routines, it is important to remember our initial  intent and insightful outcome.

Create A Sacred Connection

 "The gods were on the point of giving up when Brahma said, 'I know where we will hide man's divinity. We will  hide it inside him. He will search the whole world over but never look inside and find what is already within."
Kate Atkinson 

To be very still in the silence of the present moment, a voice will gently surface to secure a sacred connection. For some, the communication may be a simple sense of knowing or sensing the presence of Divine Nature. Words may travel on a light breeze or a swift unearthly sound.

Individuals discover a unique joining with the spiritual world as they devote time to meditation or prayer. When there is stillness to replace the sounds of chaotic life in the physical.  When not distracted, our focus awakens and expands into other realms.

The pause we create within, calms our soul and realigns our energy. We feel better prepared to embrace living with authentic input and skill. Stress and anxiety will lessen as we hold higher value of our true essence.  We move through life feeling truly united with the SacredDivine.

Depth of Space Within

"In every sound, the hidden silence sleeps."

Dejan Stojanovic

If there is the absence of mystery in your life, you are traveling too fast through life.  Life is not meant to be a blur, as incredible detail has been assigned to every object holding space.  The setting sun can inspire passion,  while in the midst of a stream, a boulder extends ancient grace.  The twinkle of a lone star may unmask a hidden fear while the song of the bird sparks an old love.

When zipping down the highway, we might be focused on a chore or project, not even aware of steering the car.  The automatic gesture of slamming on the brakes brings our consciousness back to the present, but we regress back to where we had been.

Life is meant to be lived which means to breathe in the inspiration of all things.  Receive the message streaming unconsciously or feel the nudge from the hand idly holding the pen.  Be still as inanimate objects take on movement of their own.   Allow spirit to broaden awareness of the depth of space within .