Friday, May 31, 2019

Acknowledging Goodness




"You do not become good by trying to be good, but
by finding the goodness that is already within you 
and allowing that goodness to emerge."
Eckhart Tolle

Earlier thoughts may have encouraged us to duplicate the generosity of others without differentiating the differing degrees of what we have to offer.  We may admire monetary donations, but we may not be in that particular financial situation.  We might respect the retired volunteer helping in varying fields, but we may not have available time to offer.

Instead of looking at what others provide, perhaps through self discovery, we can define what we do have to offer.  There may be things we love to do that others despise like mowing the lawn or tinkering with a flat tire.  These can be our gifts to others when we see their need.

The Divine plan is self-discovery of our personal strengths.  The common response to something we excel: "What this?  Anyone can do that!"  What we do well, however, we assume everyone else can too.  Each one of us has an ingredient to add to the whole creating goodness.

Thursday, May 30, 2019

Where We Place Our Feet


"The woman who follows the crowd will usually go further
than the crowd.  The woman who walks alone is likely to
find herself in places no one has ever been before."
Albert Einstein

We are not meant to live life in isolation, but we are called to have independent time to acknowledge what part of life is important to us.  We follow the crowd at some point to experience the ability to choose what truly resonates within us.  At some point, we stray from the crowd to better define our own sense of self.

To maintain a circle of friends is important whether gathering four times a year or four times per month.  If our group tends to be carbon copies of each other, we will not learn challenging new insights.  If our group is eclectic with a common core, we will be exposed to differing opinions and beliefs to stretch our mind, heart, and soul.

A strong foundation of self allows us to travel unexplored areas.  We can expose the self to differences without becoming those differences.  Interactions expand us, but we require our alone time to choose and digest who we want to be and what sincerely represents our inner self.  There is the occasion to return to the maddening crowd to experience and evaluate how far we have transitioned towards our unique self.

Wednesday, May 29, 2019

Change Created by Gift of Self




"Each of us is born with a specific genius that was bestowed upon us so
we can do our part to make this world a better place."
Madyison Taylor

My dear friend, if you would just look within without judgment and recognize the wonder of all you are capable of doing. It is not a matter of containing world changing formulas. The reality is we do withhold contributions to the world of our own blessed talent. We, too, can make the world a better place.

When we have listened to our inner guidance and woven our gifts into a creative expression reflecting who we truly are, we then turn our vision to the outer world. With patience we survey a land of opportunity and we adjust our focus to discover options that would be aligned with our creative input.

The word creative is not limited to foo-foo flowery decorations. Creativity can be found in all areas ... science, math, artistic equations ... with a matter of you balancing what you envision with what already is. We begin to enhance the world by giving the gift of self knowledge and applied vision.


Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Expression for Integrated Lesson



"It took me quite a long time to develop a voice,
and now that I have it, I am not going to be silent."
Madeleine Albright


As I listen to the cardinal sing a song, my spirit is calmed. The melody of the bird is fluent and heartfelt.  The same is true for human voices even though they may be using a foreign language, they can fill us with emotion.

To use a voice is not not limited to harsh, belligerent or offensive language.  A voice can be whispered or screamed according to the element of emotion wanting to be expressed.  Either way, as an individual we choose the words and tone we want to utilize.

A a youngster my voice was suffocated, so it was challenging to project even the smallest phrase.  I would immediately withdraw thinking I would be silenced.  Time carries us into challenges and without exchange of expression, the lesson will never be integrated.  The outcome of being right or wrong matters not.  The importance is in speaking inner truth out into the world. 


Monday, May 27, 2019

Search for Direction






"I was smart enough to go through any door that opened."
Joan Rivers


Balance is the key to projects, relationships, and careers. Easily, we become to narrowly focused which strips unique input from our input. In a hurry, we do not pause for ingenuity. In time, we will find our search to be strict without original compassion.

On the other end of the spectrum, we can slow down expecting opportunity to come knocking at our door. We may disregard a brilliant episode as we have fallen asleep or waiting for perfection.

Balance is created when we are attracted and invest a portion to see if it resonates with us. If we are drawn, we continue. If we do not feel an attraction, we politely withdraw. Keep one foot in the center of compassion and let the other foot randomly search for direction. When are feet can comfortably align, our energies carry us successfully forward!


Sunday, May 26, 2019

Place Fear Upon a Chair, Right Next to Ego




"I have learned over the years that when one's mind
is made up, this diminishes fear;  knowing what 
must be done does away with fear."
Rosa Parks

The time spent between indecision and decision allows plenty of room for fear to flourish.  Once we can focus all of our energy on the best calculated plan, fear subsides.  Fear may begin as a small twinge of concern, but if allowed, fear can grow into a barricade keeping us from acting upon excellent options.  Unfortunately, we can grow accustomed to this underlying feeling of fear rather than eliminating it.  

Fear is similar to ego, as they both continue to gain ground without our awareness.  They can become like unruly children until we give them time out in a chair. On the surface, this might sound silly, but deliberately separating the self from fear or ego, transpires into positive attitude.

Distraction can be the element to ruin a perfect plan.  When we do not keep our eye upon the ball, we open the playing field to numerous possibilities rather than the one we were most hoping for.  It is important to acknowledge the presence of fear and then be driven forward in spite of it.  

Saturday, May 25, 2019

Add An Ingredient





"We need to reshape our own perception of how 
we view ourselves.  We have to step up as women
and take the lead."
Beyonce    

To use our voice, we need not be worrying about whether or not we are right or wrong.  It is important to share what we think to honor our lovely selves.  If we experience correction, then we learn, but we might be surprised when our input is valued as an important contribution.

There are political figures making laws and sometimes the very law they are making, they have no first hand experience, no sound resource, and no business making judgment.  In social services, there was a woman working as a lobbyist until she realized what was needed was not being presented.  She returned to being a social worker where she knew she could make a difference.

Whether it is at home or at a job or a circle of friends, we need to hold ourselves accountable when our inner voice is begging us to speak out.  To use our voice does not mean to be disrespectful, belligerent or rebellious.  We are simply adding an ingredient that will contribute to the whole.


Friday, May 24, 2019

Seek Permission or Bust Boundaries







"The question isn't who is going to let me;
it's who is going to stop me."
Ayn Rand

The act of remaining silent is not an indication of acquiescing.  Holding our tongue may be a way of avoiding a scolding, demotion, or rejection.  There are times protecting our deepest particles of self is far more important than expressing them.

Labels like defiant can damage the self-image of the person simply trying to express a differing opinion.  Belligerent can falsely describe a person defending his or her self.  Rebellious reflects an action against the norm but it also can be the built up anger and frustration of years of unreported violence and abuse.

"Where there is a will, there is a way!"  Imagination can be  key to adapting to many situations that may have otherwise buried our spirit.  Avoiding confrontation saves energy for the independent individual to creatively use skill to the fullest.  One who carves his or her own way envisions numerous scenarios and is flexible in altering courses rather than seeking permission or busting boundaries.

Thursday, May 23, 2019

Beyond Earthly Awareness





"The eyes of the future are looking back at us and
 they are praying for us to see beyond our own time.  
They are kneeling with hands clasped that we might act 
with restraint, that we might leave room for 
 the life that is destined to come."
Terry Tempest Williams


During the last several months, life has been ending for numerous friends.  It is not difficult for me to release loved ones as I do not wish for them to prolong their suffering.   I believe they are now in a lovely space with unlimited wisdom and joy.  

On the other hand, I am here trying to adjust to the loss of connection.  Imagination leads me to believe my departed friends are busily being guided to other realms of after life and learning from their earthly choices.

When my inner self turns my eyes to other realms that follow this life, I am curious to see how my lessons fit into the overall picture of my existence.    I look forward to giving thanks to unknown angels for hovering over me in earth times of strife.   I am keenly interested in meeting relations who have passed before me.  It will be heavenly to release my physical body and joyfully become one with all there is beyond my earthly awareness.

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

Rising From A Quiet Place




"Today I rise,
I rise from the quiet place within me,
knowing the youth to my core,
letting go of what was,
stepping into my now,
blessing the lessons, the gifts, the path
that has fought me to this moment.
With an open heart, I rise."
Mary Adams



When we are in the thick of things, events, mile markers, and gain tend to be our rulers for accomplishments.  Our goals drive us with determination to reach a particular level of success, to make our mark in the world.

As time passes we pause to take inventory of our life.  We have moved forward enough, there is room to turn around and observe our path traveled so far.  Have we had courage?  Have we wandered towards distractions?  With kindness towards our lovely selves and others, have we made amends?

Gracefully aging, one does not focus solely on past career.  Our awareness spreads into areas where we hopefully assisted others less fortunate than ourselves; memories of our friends; and special celebrations with family.   The spirit at our inner core finally moves forward with the sense of our place within the whole world.




Tuesday, May 21, 2019

Lifting, In Increments




"I learned compassion from being discriminated against. Everything 
bad that's ever happened to me has taught me compassion."
Ellen DeGeneres

Discrimination was experienced early in my life. I was the only non-catholic attending a Roman Catholic Elementary School. I was growing up in a predominantly Jewish neighborhood and I was not of the Jewish faith. I attended a private college prep academy with wealthy people who lived in distant neighborhoods. I learned quickly, that minorities attract uneducated judgments which can personally trigger either hatred or compassion.

My father was a very prejudiced man and as a rebellious child I of course stood for whoever he judged. I was forever digging to find background material which could help explain the actions of the criticized. In stating his case, I would continuously search for mitigating circumstances so he could view others as human beings. I did not succeed, as he would only shake his head in disapproval; but I experienced two sides to every story.

My career threw me into dysfunctional homes and as I was able to understand the origin of decay, I began lifting ... in increments ... the down trodden. The word prejudice grows out of numerous situations of being misunderstood, judged, and disrespected; as not being seen for any value; and primarily categorized based on ignorance and lack of understanding. Compassion is not a simple emotion. From our experiences, we either kindle hatred or allow compassion to become a life style.

Monday, May 20, 2019

Tell Tale Information






"I need to listen well so that I hear what is not said."
Thuli Madonsela

Role modeling myself after my father who was a detective in Chicago. I wanted to please him so I would observe and gather information in case he might ask me. If a man or woman came to the house in his absence, he would ask me numerous questions: How tall, what they were wearing, color of hair, jewelry or glasses, friendly or suspicious, and how did they leave? I positively loved being able to respond to my father with detailed reports.  

So I searched even deeper in the presence of others ... listening to what was not being said. My observations stretched into taking note of the surroundings: Was someone else waiting, what kind of car they drove, or if they seemed anxious or 'casing' our neighborhood.

These skills allowed me to be a very annoying parent. I could discern what was not being said,read body language and be all the wiser when stories didn't line up. Years later these same skills were blessings while working in social services. Point being, do not be calculating a response instead of being present to notice tell tale information surrounding the situation.

Sunday, May 19, 2019

No Need for Magic



"We do not need magic to change the world,
we carry all the power we need inside of ourselves already:  
we have the power to imagine better."
J.K. Rowling

If we perpetually carry in our mind's eye the visual of being impaired, then yes, indeed, we very well may lead a life of impairment.  Our body, mind and spirit listen carefully to everything we say .... even the ridiculous things we mutter under our breath.

Our perception is the measuring stick, so there is plenty of room for inaccuracy.  Although mindless, in college we played a game to discover an aspect of someone that they were unaware.  For me, I never knew I was bow legged until my college mates pointed this out to me.  It was from that point that I became self-conscious about my legs.

If a beautiful person feels defected or ugly, he or she will live life never experiencing personal beauty.  If a person is overly convinced of personal beauty, they are unlikely to discover less superficial aspects of personality.  The best formula is to use the power within to create the best version of our selves as we discover our gifts and talents.   One doesn't need magic to be kind or to be a light in the world.

Saturday, May 18, 2019

Authenticity not Perfectionism




"The challenge is not be perfect ...
it's to be whole."
Jane Fonda


The Japanese culture have a practice of filling a crack of a broken piece of pottery with a lacquer mixture containing powdered gold.  It is believed the golden repair adds depth and beauty to the repaired piece.  The imperfection tends to add to the piece, not distract.

Navajo weavers were known to deliberately create an imperfection in a rug which they called a 'spirit line' or a 'spiritual pathway'.  This would allow a part of the weaver to escape or be released from the artist.  Perfection of pattern was never the goal.

As human beings, we are incapable of living life perfectly.  Where did the idea of perfection originate ... surely it was man himself.  Jesus the Christ and many masters welcomed children, beggars, and strangers just as they were.  Never was anyone turned away because they lacked perfection. It is important for us to shift our goals to wholeness, being truly authentic rather than perfect.


Friday, May 17, 2019

Time Excavates Half Truths and False Beliefs





"Owning our story can be hard, but not nearly as
difficult as spending our lives running from it."
Brene Brown

From an early age we hear the command, "Stop Running!" We eventually learn to slow our lovely selves down physically, but mentally our mind may run wild for years to come.

Our mind needs a personal Fit Bit to track the emotional steps towards mental fatigue or debilitating stress. Our inner subject matter bounces around like fleas hopping from one source to another, so we do not have time to lift up that which we repress.

Life will find a way to slow us down, and the slower pace offers creative pause to dig in to what has built up behind us. Excavating unearths half truths and false beliefs which have blocked our true beauty and worth. It is time to embrace our individual story and walk peacefully through the remainder of our lives.


Thursday, May 16, 2019

Miracles During Incubation





"Doubt is a killer.  You just have to know
who you are and what you stand for."
Jennifer Lopez

A brilliant idea pops into our head and we are filled with the prospect of creating with originality  and abilities of uniqueness.  Our body fills with excitement  stretching the prospect invention into greater depths of planning and the images grow more spectacular!

Then noticed is a niggle of fear expressed by our inner critic.  Perhaps it is generated by a scoff or a muffled laugh, but the fear comes through loudly and clearly.  This is when we begin to turn creative incentive and personal value down low.  Doubt becomes a heavy blanket spreading over our glimpse of invention, snuffing out even the smallest glint of light.

We receive  splashes of adventure or invention, and yes, I do believe they are wondrous opportunities sent from above.  When we believe the opportunity was individually meant for us, and we slow down for incubation, the project takes on life.  When we fill our mind with trust and faith,  the support is drawn to us and fear is thrust to the rear.  The biggest obstacle to over come is our own fear ... bravely, step through it!

Wednesday, May 15, 2019

Nay Sayers and Moving Along





"Take criticism seriously, but not personally. I
there is truth or merit in the criticism, try to learn from it.  
Otherwise, let it roll right off you."
Hillary Clinton


We receive insight when we remain open to conversations whether religious, political or socially orientated. When a discussion begins and we feel our eyes roll to the back of our heads, we need to regroup.  Instead of listening so closely, it might be interesting to simply observe facial expression, tone level, or other remarkable reactions.  

While we listen to the passion of others, we do not have to agree or disagree, but we can have an appreciation for the unique style of expression. The reverse, of course, would be someone criticizing our contribution to a conversation. It is healthy to step back and consider the content of what was said.  

Can we be accountable or have we been misunderstood? Have we been speaking through a narrow scope of our own making? Are the listeners not on the same level .... whether the subject is cooking, exercise, or political freedom?
The best response to nay sayers is to thank them for sharing their perspective and then move along.

Tuesday, May 14, 2019

The Gentle Giant Within





"When we recognize our warrior self, we can
exhibit strength without sacrificing tenderness."
Madyson Taylor

We are one physical body, but we have a multitude of layers inside of us reflecting creativity, gentleness, strength, and the ability to align our lovely selves with whatever  challenges us.   While facing this world of challenge, we will progress steadily if we can blend with all aspects of the self.

We can regard our person as peaceful, gentle and kind, but that is not to say that we cannot use our Warrior Spirit during difficult times.  This is not about a physical stance, but a calling upon our accumulation of strengths to stand our ground.  It is not about fighting or conquering, but it is about standing up for what we believe by using our voice, the written word, art, and wisdom that fills our inner being.

A Warrior Spirit looks within to shore up all parts of our selves.  It is not about turning to the world with anger, violence or domination.  It is about turning in to remind the self of our value, what we respect, and how we want to honor our actions in the world. The Warrior Spirit reminds us that we are not alone, that we are mighty, and prepared to use our inner power to stand tall.

Monday, May 13, 2019

Kierkegaard .... Don't Hate the Hater





"There is a form of envy of which I frequently
have seen examples, in which an individual
tries to obtain something by bullying."
Soren Kierkegaard
Brain Pickings

Soren Kierkegaard would keenly observe the presence of a bully or hater while interacting with people.  Whether he was mocked in a group or approached by a hater, he chose to react with kindness as he believed the person was attempting to obtain something.

If someone boldly laughed directly at Kierkegaard, he would single the person out with recognition and respect.   He knew the person felt threatened choosing to be disrespectful to gain negative attention.  Kierkegaard treated them cordially asking them questions one might ask a friend.  He did not take the name calling personally.

Instead of reacting out of fear, Soren Kierkegaard displayed the opposite emotion.  He would remain confident in himself and congenially address the source.  This is not suggesting we enter a den of thieves! Individuals who are seeking attention through negative behavior, however, might easily shift into alignment once publicly recognized.  Basically, don't hate the hater, as rarely does his behavior have anything to do with you.

Sunday, May 12, 2019

We Have All Done Our Best





"But behind all your stories is always your
Mother's story, because hers is where you begin."
Mitch Albom

Today, tears will be shed ... in happiness, in loss, and in recalled memories.  Motherhood requires determination to keep moving forward and making decisions even when outcomes are unclear.  We can be overwhelmed by the tasks like maintaining a clean house or the complexity of the child''s brain. We may falter if we compare our parenting style to that of our own mother.

Although patience and firmness provide guidelines for the children, a mother must also be flexible as life churns from one circumstance to one other.  Simple courage is required to face every day situations with the option of flexibility.  Decisions are further complicated by the different ages between children or the varying personalities in the home.   

To be the mom, even though that is a joyful role to play, can be exhausting without support, self-value, and compassion for the self as well as the family.    At times it is a thankless job, but the bond with a child is difficult to sever.   As an adult, our story began in our mother's lap, so respect and honor can be offered without shame or judgment.  True or false, we all believe we have done our best.



Saturday, May 11, 2019

Daughter ... Compassion, Wisdom, and Insight




"I did not give you the gift of life,
life gave me the gift of you."
Your Tango

My three boys celebrated the birth of their sister, born on Mother's Day.  That is where my bond began with this amazing female spirit ... we have continued to grow day by day.  Truly, she has been a gift, teaching me the tandem of loving and letting go.

Highly educated and exceptional personality, my daughter embraces the world and diversity.  Her mind, heart, and soul are open extending compassion to those in need.  We have built a bond together  and with each passing year, we continue to build a bridge to keep us connected.

It is a joy to watch her excel in her field, but most importantly to observe her growing as a mother.  She has surpassed all of my expectations and I receive nothing but pleasure while watching her two  little sprouts unfold and grow.  Balancing the life of professional, wife, and mother, my daughter remains close in my heart.  Compassion, wisdom and insight are my birthday blessings sent to my child.

Friday, May 10, 2019

The Essence of My Second Son



The three boys were men ... "and though they would always be at
the center of her life, she was no longer at the center of theirs."
Cathleen Schine 

My children were encouraged to be free and independent.  They were taught to respect others and to respect themselves as well.  There were three boys and one girl, and each one required unique input so they could  become who they needed to be.

The four children were independent of each other and yet a strong bond protected them as family.  My second son undoubtedly was the most difficult to raise.  He was always brimming with energy, observing others, and marching down his own untrodden path, but I knew he loved me. He engaged with numerous people, but very few were welcomed into his private arena.

This challenging son is now a man, successful in marriage, raising a family, and career.  He has his own shades of darkness which he addresses in his own way.  I am forever proud of him, deeply love him, and miss him.  I was successful in teaching independence, not knowing how deeply the absence would  now be felt within.  Birthday blessings to my second son ... you are always in my heart.


Thursday, May 9, 2019

Dreading Mother's Day



"God knows that a mother needs fortitude and courage and tolerance
and flexibility and patience and firmness and nearly every other brave
aspect of the human soul."
Phyllis McGinely

Inspirational quotes are everywhere for Mother's Day, but very few address the scars, loss, and heartache experienced by some mothers.  Situations created by a miscarriage, childhood illness, divorce or dysfunctional families are not recognized in the lofty celebration.  

We carry with us the imprint of our own mother whether it is positive or negative.  Our experience shades our own ability to parent.  With unavailable ways to honor the mother who has lost a child, many women dread Mother's day.  The childless, the abandoned, and the elder may not be as jubilant as society promotes this seemingly sacred day.

It helps if we set healthy boundaries for ourselves.  If the family gather rips a wound wide open, then perhaps he or she should not attend.  Promote self-value by recalling purposeful times throughout life which did  highlight a challenging life.  During the holiday, gather with kindred spirits who will lift us up and remind us how to thrive.  If we have been lost in the pace of society and children cannot return home, in memory revisit times that were loving and kind.

(Thoughts promoted by Bethany Webster, THE MOTHER'S WOUND)



  • Wednesday, May 8, 2019

    Down to our Bones





    "Staying silent is like a slow growing cancer to the soul and a 
    trait of a true coward.  There is nothing intelligent about not standing up 
    for yourself.  You may not win every battle. However, everyone will at least know 
    what you stood for ... YOU."
    Shannon L. Alder

    If we are listening to someone knowledgable, and we begin to feel inner movement of disagreement,  the appropriate response would be to listen a little longer with an open mind.  When we have given respect to this person, we can present our belief asking how it might blend with the presenter.  We can agree or disagree with the response.

    Not every conversation is meant for a rebuttal.  Sometimes it is strengthening our own belief system or recognizing the other person is on a different path or having a reaction dissimilar to our own.  The time to speak out is when we feel our passion rising to the surface.  We have an obligation to present our own truths whether right or wrong.  It is not okay to hide our truths but we need to use discernment when and when not to share.

    We all have truths and it is important to be flexible as we stretch and grow.  Knowledge is learned through discussions with others and often disagreement can lift our level of perception.  Opposition will either strengthen our own beliefs or gently move us towards enlightenment.  It is acceptable for someone not to understand us, but it is not acceptable for us to hide what is important down to our bones.



    Tuesday, May 7, 2019

    Live As Intended

     


    "She grew tired of shielding her body,
    For societal expectation and propriety,
    Double standards and sobriety,
    Ideologies of prudent cries,
    And boys who make her tell them lies."
    Jacqueline Simon Gunn
    It seems we are born with an inner encrypted intention and the ability to develop necessary abilities to bring these intentions into the physical world in spite of our gender. Our inner sense expands over time creating a higher awareness of what we have come to contribute.

    We might not be consciously mindful of our materializing gifts and talents, but if we remain true to our spirit and trust the Divine our plan will flourish. Our path can become impeded by well intentioned family or friends, but when we remain true to our call we can impact this world.

    The proportion of our gift does not matter nor is it a concern if we are ever elevated by society. We strive to hone in on our gifts and to see expansive ways to create and enhance the life we live as we were intended.

    Monday, May 6, 2019

    Silent Support Towards Strength and Integrity

     ,



    "One of the tasks of true friendship is to listen compassionately and creatively 
    to the hidden silences.  Often secrets are not revealed in words, they lie concealed
    in the silence between the words or in the depth of what is unsayable between two people."
    John O'Donohue

    When  two gather in silence, there is nothing quite as comforting. The privilege to be who we are in that moment with a trusted friend is a gift.  Masks slide away, body language rests, and the heart can relax boundaries.  There is a sense of permission to be our authentic self.

    Deep within this joined silence is a sacred place where hidden fears, mistakes, and disappointments can be safely released without a sound being made.  The exceptional respect between the two friends allows the heavy soul to be unveiled and be received with silent compassion and understanding.

    We can exchange a simple glance and volumes can unfold.  The language between honored friends is spoken silently with deep understanding.  More can be revealed than if words were used to express the complexities of our transitioning lives.  This sacred friendship allows us to be truly seen ... wounds, scars, and the movement forward displaying strength, value and integrity.  



    Sunday, May 5, 2019

    Psychological Outlet Readily Available




    "So long as you write what you wish to write, that is all that matters;
    and whether it matters for ages or only for hours, nobody can say."
    Virginia Woolf


    Writing is important just for the sake of writing.  It is a tool for allowing the mind to drizzle repressed emotions out onto the page.  It is a safe place to leave our anger or bitterness.  Our personal writings do not need to be grammatically correct nor do they need appropriate punctuation.  The long standing black and white composition book works just as well as a fancy journal.

    Too often, an individual hampers a unique flow of thoughts by simply worrying about how the words sound or what others will think of what is being said.  This consideration has importance when professionally writing, but when we are expressing ourselves for personal recording, we have freedom of slang, fragments, and open ended sentences.

    There is great pleasure in revisiting an old journal to rediscover our words, but and to see the little sketches or quotes that mirror our then space in time.  It is interesting to see how much we have expanded or transitioned from a controlled way of thinking to a broader sense of the world.  Our writings reflect the multiple sides of the self and our dedication to overcoming challenges presented before us.

    Saturday, May 4, 2019

    Push Forward to Broaden




    "Like all explorers, we are drawn to discover what's out there
    without knowing yet if we have the courage to face it."
    Pema Chodron

    We all seek answers to questions of numerous topics .... ancestors, science, or the existence of the Divine.  Many of our thoughts remain hidden out of fear of judgment, but if we do not persevere in spite of our concerns, our processing will become stunted and cease to unfold.

    As we pursue answers, our minds need to be open to information that may not be congruent with our own.  The goal of learning is not being affirmed of what we already know; but, to learn information without our filters on.  We do not seek wisdom to make us right or wrong, but knowledge to make us stretch and grow.

    Early years as a seeker, we may be hampered by concerns of what other friends or family may think.  We may also embrace new knowledge, but fear we might be wrong.  If we push forward and broaden our resources, we eventually will feel what is right for us within our heart.  Information will resonate and bring our vibration closer to the Divine.
      

    Friday, May 3, 2019

    Message Left Behind




    "Our own life has to be our message."
    Thich Nhat Hanh

    We strive to reach our goals even though they may be altered.  We use our creativity to express what we sense to be true in the world.  Then there are the dreams for justice and peace or for a healthy family or spiritual connection.  Our goals, creativity, and dreams compile the message we leave in the end.

    Our message is not so much of what we say but how are actions portrayed us as a human being.  We may have opened a peek into our persona if we were creative or lived our dreams.    The message left behind however, is a combination of our entire existence.

    So this triggers thoughts of emotions I have displayed and actions I have taken while realizing these are just pieces of my life.  Then there are the many roles I played ... wife, mother, counselor, energy worker and presenter ... but these do not reflect me entirely either.  I find my lovely self sifting through all of these components, wondering when all is said and done, what my message shall be.