Celebrating Change

"I have come to believe over and over again that what is most

important to me must be spoken, made verbal and shared,

even at the risk of having it bruised or misunderstood."

Audre Lorde

Today, I am once again celebrating my life. I have not always felt that it was worth celebrating, but that is no longer the case. Over the years through trial and error, sisters of my heart, and deep dives inward, I have finally discovered personal power and the ability to make my own unique mark by using my voice.

In 2011, sweet sister of my heart, Becky Aud-Jennison, encouraged me to create a blog. She opened an account for me and Virginia's Voice was established. I have shared insights  for 13 years without missing one day. It has been an opportunity to be present for others while they discover their pathway back into the light.

I thrive on diversity whether agreeing or disagreeing. I love the challenge to think for myself and choose what most aligns with me. I have learned to truly like myself and be able to open my heart to all peoples with sincere compassion. Human existence is challenging, but when balanced with spiritual understanding, lessons stimulating change, abound.

Disentanglement

 

"In the end, that's all disentanglement is: trusting God and 

taking the next step in the right direction." 

Jinger Duggar Vuolo

Like a gnarly tree, my core gets severely tangled choking the life out of me. Knotted by sudden twists and turns, the constant squeezing creates my sudden need to become numb. So branch by branch, I begin to untwine the invisible boughs and twigs that bind me. I trace them back to their origin and see how my choices have stunted me.

I have new shoes and they are going to follow an authentic path opening before me. Leaving the voices of well meaning others behind me, I carry only trust and awareness for all that I will hear and experience through my own being. It will be my inner light that leads through darkness and my energy that will resonate with the right way to go.

Discarding stunted growth from my trunk I feel empowered. My intention is to grow my light inviting intuition and glimpses of possibility. My dreams will offer possibilities with subtle messages for only me to behold. I am going to overlook this fear of depending upon myself and simply unfold into who I am meant to be. 

Empowered by Light

"Nothing binds you except your own thoughts; 

nothing limits you except your fear;

and nothing controls you except your beliefs."

Marianne Williamson

Deep within us, there is a light that is directly related to our spiritual origin. Just as the body needs to be fed and cared for, so does our light. When left unattended, it loses its luster and flickers dim. When we are consciously aware of our light, strengthening it and projecting it, it grows in strength and durability.

This light is a beacon to fellow travelers, to be felt and recognized in the midst of strangers. It is emanated from us to everything that surrounds us. It is also a tether to invisible divinity waiting to guide and support us. The light is an antenna to silently communicate with loved ones, nature, divinity and other worldly entities. 

Light can also be considered an energy. It has a subtle presence and can spread beyond boundaries. It is most widely spread by touch as in hugging and shaking hands, as well as through eye contact. When our light energy is thriving within, it penetrates outside of us and draws others near. Connecting with inner light empowers. 

 

Spiritual Intelligence

"I am guided by the same intelligence and inspired by the same

imagination that scatters the moonbeams across the waves and

holds the forces of nature in its grasp."

Ernest Holmes

Once we realize there is no division between us and the Divine, acceptance of spiritual intelligence flows. As we open our minds to thinking outside of the box, messages come from dreams, nature, synchronicities, and once hidden knowledge. We are children of God who have inherited open, honest and often times magical communication.

As we help others through donations, volunteering, or anonymous actions, we are doing the work of God. When a person continuously pops up into our thoughts, it is a message to reach out with love. If we dream of our future self, perhaps it is time to start grooming ourselves and building bridges to get there. 

We must be aware of intuition and prophecy as gifts. Developing a spiritual rapport with the Divine heightens our abilities and understandings. Poets, artists, philosophers, and inventors reflect endless stories of how Divine Spirit intervened. Right now, ask a question, and the answer will come if we remain open to the magical possibility of spiritual connection. 

Prophecy

"You are today where your thoughts have brought you;

you will be tomorrow where your thoughts take you.

James Lane Allen

We are now able to reach beyond limitations that have been holding us small. No longer do we need a man to be an intermediate between ourselves and the Divine or medical solutions or career paths. We now have the desire to step through others expectations and use tools of intuition and prophecy, to create an authentic course.

Exceptional people have been driven by a seed of vision through tumultuous times, overcoming obstacles. As we monitor our dreams, we receive snippets of possibilities almost as a tease to our future. When we embrace future positive images, they will light our way to where our path begins to unfold.

If we foolishly focus on the criticism of others, and accept ill treatment, we will not prosper. However, if we hold tightly to a future image of our self, like attracts like. Remaining focused, personal prophecy prevails. If we choose negative  limitations, they will taint our future.. If we trust in the goodness radiating at our core, we will thrive.

 

Intuition

"The intuitive mind is a sacred gift and the rational mind

is a faithful servant. We have created a society 

that honors the servant and has forgotten the gift."

Albert Einstein 

Whether driven by crisis or a simply a curious mind, there is an inner knowing that surfaces and provides additional insight. Information automatically available could be considered as Divine intervention or Spiritual guidance. Most of us would agree that spontaneous knowledge is our personal intuition.

Life is mysterious and deeper understanding can be found in less rational thinking. When we respect our intuition, we can learn personalized information that when respected, advances us successfully forward. Text book information may provide technical solutions but  intuition offers livable answers.

Each of us can access our intuition. Minimize chatter in the brain, giving way to a silent space for guidance.  Pay attention to dreams, gut instincts, and synchronicities. Stretch beyond textbook knowledge, discovering unexplainable intelligence. Insights provide new knowledge to approach all aspects of living. It really is that easy!

Losing Control

"Yet these concerns are just part of an operating system.

They are programmed into the software of the ego with its

total fixation on keeping everything under control."

Deepak Chopra 

We cannot totally avoid chaos, but we can learn a different way to access and adapt to it. When crisis presents itself, our instinct is to hang on at all costs. Ego's evaluation is based in fear rather than open speculation. Change is an unwelcome visitor, but when we push through ego's fear, we begin to see new possibilities.

Fear is an ever present response whether we are falling into the depths of hell or ascending into heavenly bliss. The key of course is to step through the darkness into the light. Let the winds blow right through as they will uncover new options, speculations, and creative approaches to facilitate healthy growth. 

Maintaining the belief that all things happen to better us, we can align events in our life with both our inner and outer expectations. When we base choices on the needs of our internal and external worlds, experiences work in tandem. We will experience life as becoming more stable and secure. There is strength in letting go of ego and validating our true self.

 

Hot Air

"There is freedom waiting for you, on the breezes of the sky."

Erin Hanson

Imagine 'hot air' blown your way captured into a large balloon. Secured in the basket, fire is ignited and off you go. As you right yourself, the body feels the jolt of uprighting, followed by the uplift of freedom. As you look down, loud voices fade and chaos appears to be shrinking. You are able to breathe and settle into this unregulated space.

The intention is not to escape life, but to gain new perspectives. When you view situations from alternating angles, you may cease approaching conflict with a trial and error expectation. In the stillness of the breeze, you can shush the ego, and truly listen to the whisperings of the soul.

When you are elevated, things that once plagued you, may simply decrease in both volume and intensity. Options once highlighted have fizzled out and can be blown away. You can readily view the past and embrace the future. From this higher view, what is truly important begins to catch your eye and wishes begin to come true. 

Center Stage

"Lots and lots of things scare me 

but you just get on with it."

Dame Judith Dench 

Think of your life as being a stage where you play numerous roles switching back and forth between characters. Perhaps your strongest self stands in the forefront, center stage, while your weakest self loiters toward the back of the stage. Notice if you are using an authentic voice or if you are reciting a well written script.

On our personal stage are we simply performing memorized words or are we articulating themes we honestly care about? Have we outgrown the characters we play stuck in automatic pilot? Are you waiting for the curtain to fall or can you possibly be strong enough to just walk off the stage?

It is when we remember that we are the director, creator, and actor that we can begin to write a new script. Do you even know your heart's desire? Become aware of which characters you play, need to be eliminated. Darken the lights, ignore the audience, and begin to speak your truth. In no time, you will find your lovely self dancing across the stage!

 

Full Moon Cycle

"Your heart understands what your mind can't grasp."

Judith Corvin Blackburn

Another Full Moon rattling our emotions and shifting security. Out of nowhere, it seems, we are thrown off base and find our lovely selves confused. Disruption and discord prevail and all of our well intended plans are cast aside. What we think becomes secondary to what we are feeling as our cages get rattled.

The intention of the moon is to shine light into our darkness. It is once again exposing our hidden fears and stagnant stances. The Moon desires us to wake up and shine brightly, attracting the goodness we deserve. In spite of its dark side, the Moon buoyantly floats across the sky, preparing for a new cycle.

Under the moon, we are all equal looking up at the stars who seem to be promising good things forthcoming. The Full Moon is ending a cycle and preparing to move through yet another. And this is true for us. Everything unsettled surfaces and we have the opportunity to come out of the darkness and shine in the light. 

 

Breathe Through the Heart

"Theater doesn't need to look like you to be about you.

At an incredibly complicated time in this country

theater is celebrating and exploring the human heart."

George C. Wolfe

In the theater, just like in life, there are numerous seats to choose from. We question whether we want to be in the middle of the row, on the end by aisle or sky high in the balcony. We may judge a performance by categorizing it by stating 'it just wasn't like me at all'. Was the orchestra too loud or the lighting not just right? Maybe the theme was lack luster.

The next time we hear ourselves dismissing a person, place or thing as simply not suiting us, we really need to pause and think once again. We are all connected and although we do not have to condone all behaviors or habits, we will do better if we stand in the orchestra pit and open the inner self to the vibes.

There are numerous castings for plots, opportunities, and options. During an intermission, hopefully we can begin to sense an underlying theme. When we see a final act, hopefully we will be able to see through our fear and embrace new insight. As the curtain comes down, we can choose to begin again, this time breathing through the heart.

 

Successful Pace

"Be careful not to let the noise of your mind

overpower the whispers of your soul."

Cory Muscara

We can succeed at anything if we set our minds to it as we are very powerful beings. It is when we get distracted by either too much stimulus or too little application that we fall short. When we race ahead of our own pace we get overwhelmed an remain mediocre in all things. When we run off at every opportunity the lack of discipline stunts our growth.

Success whether professional or personal, requires an investment of our time. We can spread ourselves just so far, so precision of choice is paramount. We must have the strength to say no to family, friends and co-workers in proportion to our timetable to succeed. In addition, we must be aware of how anger or other excess emotion can interrupt our efforts.

Create a flexible outline that is plausible. If we finish a particular task, enjoy some free space temporarily, and then return to pending schedule. If we fall short of our estimated time table, remember that it is inevitable for some things to demand more attention. Flexibility is key as long as our commitment remains prioritized.

 

Peachy!

"The positive thinker sees the invisible, feels 

the intangible, and achieves the impossible."

Winston Churchill

The opportunity to break down old beliefs is clearly here! No longer do we  passively allow our selves to be spoon fed outdated or falsified rhetoric. In a mirror, we catch a glimpse of a confident and unlimited human on the cusp of greatness. It is in the now that we pick up the reins and drive our intentions to a bold and thriving reality.

The challenges that present before us reflect lessons that are needed to create a greater sense of purposeful living. We are connected to everyone and we do not have to view diverse peoples as right or wrong. As we cease to be threatened by others, we increase our ability to listen to our inner voice and create accordingly.

In stillness, we glance around to what we have created. Are our surroundings orderly and reflect our true spirit? Do we have scattered collections of trivial meaning or does our space harbor treasures of the heart? If we take back our power, choosing options that align with our spirit, life becomes peachy! 

 

Disconnect

"We are inherently social beings, and our mental health 

depends on strong and meaningful connections."

Lost Connections

Disconnection can lead to isolation and mental health issues. As we evolve, however, we are called to deliberately adjust relationships to make room for higher learning or deep dives into new perspectives. Although sad, it is true we may outgrow certain situations and it is no one's fault. It's about moving forward.

When we no longer comfortably identify with friends or co-workers, there is no reason to find fault or make excuses for lacking interest.  If we no longer feel a link, let it be a healthy sign to move into new circles for additional experiences.  Creating new bonds can be frightening, but we need to step through our fears.

When invested in new endeavors, we can experience fresh challenges accompanied by additional energy. We may discover parts to our lovely selves waiting to expand and excel. As new formations arise, we will feel like we are actually living again, not just existing in a mediocre scenario. It may be time to move forward into new beginnings.

 

****INC Friendship Relationships

"In the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies,

but the silence of our friends."

Martin Luther King Jr

 

Discord and Dilemma

Most of us don't like silence because

it forces us to confront ourselves."

Dan Pedersen 

Reality is difficult to face and accepting truth is challenging as well. We will go to great lengths to lose focus and distort the truth. This of course extends the inevitable and creates harm.  Denial and avoidance postpones accountability and we will seek numerous forms of escape 

Reluctant to embrace things as they are, we may become over indulgent in shopping, exercising, drinking or working. We keep surroundings loud and heighten social exchanges. Getting lost in other people's dilemmas occupies our thoughts. In our minds. we keep running to avoid the real world.

We may find ourselves unsettled without knowing what is triggering the unrest. Reality and truth begin to align when we take pause and simply breathe. It is in this space of stillness that we can face dilemma, hold ourselves accountable and determine a safe plan. Silence becomes a healthy and powerful tool to heal the body, mind, and soul.

 

Lurking By Your SIde

"When you're a young child, you pick a totem animal, 

and you just identify with it to the point of wishing 

you were that animal."

Diane Lane

Early in my adult life, I learned that a bear was my animal totem. As a young mother, I definitely was a 'mama bear' roaring at anyone who attempted to mess with my cubs. In time, the hawk became my ever present messenger and I longed for the freedom of flight.

A totem holds special significance to those who pay attention. It can carry a physical, mental or spiritual message. It can be a warning sign or confirmation that good things are on the rise. The important piece is recognizing the repetitive appearance and being open to revelation.

Individual totems spontaneously appear such as a fox (sly) along the side of the road or a coyote (trickster) crossing your path. Maybe it is a guardian angel or a simple fragrance of a loved one who has passed or a particular song. Please be encouraged to uncover a totem that surely lurks by your side. 

 

Symbols

 

"This flag which we honor and under which we serve is

the emblem of our unity, our power, our thoughts

and purpose as a nation."

Woodrow Wilson

There are numerous flags when you stop to think about it. The gut sends out a red flag when something is instinctually wrong. A construction worker waves an orange flag to slow us down. Then there is the black flag to signal the end of a car race. Then, of course, there are flags symbolizing different countries. And don't forget the rainbow flag!

Symbols reflect meaning and inspiration. They will have original or antique images to bring attention to core beliefs or historic emphasis. Imagine what your personal flag might look like. What fabrics would you use and what distinction would you give to your personal power, sense of unity and intended purpose?

When displaying your flag, where would you hang it and would you take it down at dusk or in from the rain? Do you think there would be merit in updating the flag as time passes? How do you suppose your ancestors would feel about this flag of yours? Will it reflect how it makes you feel or what it inspires? Come on, it's Flag Day, so give your flag a whirl!

Moments of Bliss or Hours of Pleasure

 

"Happiness is always there. You just have to choose

to see it. There's no point dwelling in the dark and

ignoring the light of the stars."

Carrie Hope Fletcher

Positive thinking can change negative instances into curious speculation and adventure. When we know ourselves well enough, we can immediately turn to support that will lift our spirits. There are numerous categories for shifting our focus. We can treat ourselves to a favorite snack or dive into a source to stimulate change and wisdom.

We must not stop believing in change that can elevate our body, mind, and spirit. Caught in the darkness of disappointing thoughts, remember that we can throw open a window to let light shine in. Ask, who or what can stimulate motivation to carry us forward in spite of what is presenting before us.

We need to remain focused on what nurtures us. There is no reason to just sit back waiting for happiness to appear. Identifying what we want places us in a position to go after it. Invest in things that we care about and let go of things that no longer resonate. Happiness appears on numerous levels ranging from moments of bliss to hours of pleasure.

On Top Of The World

"Climb it so you can see the world, 

not so the world can see you!"

David McCullough, Jr.

Being on top of the world might be a short lived experience, so it is important to enjoy each step along the way. Notice the beauty hidden along the edges and peer into the crevices for deeper understanding.  Aspiring to reach the top of the world, we will experience the slide backwards, so learn from the darkness in the shadows. 

Climbers often discuss if the challenge upwards is the most fulfilling or if  the arrival on the top is superior. It has been written that the existence on the top of the world can be extremely lonely, and dangerous.  Perhaps if we did not stand upon the world doing a victory lap while looking down upon others, it could be an entirely different journey.

What if we linked arms with others and shared diverse wisdom and insight on the way up? And how would it be if we took turns being the scout? Imagine back sliding, but feeling the strong grip of those with you. Upon reaching the top, everyone would experience joy and celebration. A strong sense of togetherness as they stood on top of the world!

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Differences Between Us

"We are all made different to learn from each other."

Jayanta K Nanda

I find it to be ironic that we spend incredible amounts of time trying to copy others. We may dress like someone or live in a certain neighborhood to hopefully create acceptance.  Even when we are transported into the strived for element, how odd that we continue to downplay our uniqueness so that we will secure the status of fitting in. 

Discrimination based upon looks, ethnicity, or chosen paths strives for superiority and division. Embracing other cultures, professions or evolved concepts broaden our experience leading to acceptance and understanding. If we nurtured each other, stopped hiding parts of ourselves, and celebrated life together, would the world not change?

When we are able to see beyond the masks and become tenderhearted will we not experience a sense of freedom? We will never fully accept others until we learn to accept ourselves, faults and all. We are all human beings with remarkable differences intended for the pleasure of all. When we can view each other freely, spirits will finally soar.

The Space Between

"I am feeling a spaciousness inside me, 

like outer space or the ocean."

Michael Brooks

Part of us may be focused upon the physical like career and action, while the other part may be based more on spiritual and creative aspects. Then there is the space in between these two parts where we can just be. It is similar to the area between two railroad tracks. It exists no matter which way the trains are running. 

This inner space can be decorated with personal preference, but the glory is in the ability to simply be present without any attachment. It can be compared to an out of body experience that is limitless without physical restraints or emotional attachments. This state of being offers a suspension from harsh realities.

When we experience being present without any expectations other than silencing the mind and ego, we can be transported into a realm where we can experience a sense of peace allowing everything to fall away. It is an opportunity to separate the self from things that no longer matter. It is beyond time and space, simply being still with our soul.

 

Random Parts Coming Together

"Everything is happening for us, not to us."

Byron Katie

Step out of the role of victim and hold the self accountable for whatever part you played. Knowing that the only person you can change is the self, efforts need to focus on how you can adjust thoughts, behaviors, or relationships. Even when things are out of your control, there remains a small element that you can choose to adjust.

When you are confronted by difficult or challenging events, you must listen to understand what life is trying to teach you. Observe the entire scenario rather than narrowing it down. See how the random parts can come together. The mantra becomes, "what am I to learn?" If you fail to shift perspectives, challenges will repeated until you finally see the point.

Hold your mind open to determine what pattern is being shown to you. Is this a familiar happening repeated throughout your life? Patterns continue to cycle in and out until you finally catch on. If you don't change, the elements of the event will continue to reoccur. With tender loving care, allow life to show you what you need. 

 

Mind Reader

"No one is born a mind reader. 

Make efforts. Explain."

Jen Cillian-Nemeth

Confusion muddles with the mind. Not understanding, we begin to project numerous scenarios and none of them may be accurate. If we do not understand, ask questions and truly listen to what is shared. What we hear may not be aligned with our experience, but we must begin by opening both the heart and the mind to other's perceptions.

It is helpful if we are told what exactly is wrong. We might ask what we did or said to find equal footing. It is imperative to have the ability to stand in the shoes of others to determine what is at the heart of the conflict. If we remain silent, irritation builds and we end up further away from each other.

When we fail to articulate what is in our heart, we have no right to be angry at others for not understanding.  We must express what is at the heart of the matter or else all is going to fail. Listen closely and ask for other examples until we can grasp what needs correction. We all need to be heard whether or not others agree.

 

Smile Inside

"A smile is a curve that sets everything straight."

Phyllis Diller 

A smile is swiped right off of our face when we cast judgment. Dark shadows form a veil between the self and others. When we remember to smile, there is a silent message of accepting the present moment. Rather than rejecting what is before us, we can choose to grin deep within which assists in maintaining our balance.

The act of inner smiling calms and restores a sense of equilibrium.  The smile deeply within does not necessarily show upon the face. Let it broaden into a radiant beam inside. When this happens, our brain secretes chemicals increasing our sense of good will. We experience a connection with the Divine  honoring the presence of all peoples.

An inner smile may not shift the perils that face us, but the warm connection of the inner smile is empowering. Scribble the word smile in the palm of the hand. Throughout the day, let it be a reminder that the joy we create inside of ourselves, takes the edge off uncomfortable situations. It is not about agreeing or condoning. It is about smiling inside.

 

 

Facing Fire

"The difference between a good life and a bad life is

how well you walk through the fire."

C.G. Jung

It is inevitable that we will face brutal times whether it be a loss, trauma, pressure or ailment. The reality of the heat will not be ignored. Temps will flare until we acknowledge the presence of what waits uncontrollably before us. As we bravely face truth, we unfortunately may experience a great deal of fear.

If we can begin when a sense of balance and a calming of the mind, pitfalls can be minimized.  When we fail to face reality, things can unnecessarily spiral out of control. In choosing avoidance or denial, coals will burn hotter. If we believe the Universe will magically intervene, flames grow stronger. Positive action must be taken as soon as possible.

Use personal power to seek a professional for guidance whether it is a therapist, lawyer or doctor. If feelings of helplessness overwhelm, reach out for help without any sense of shame. Gather courage, knowing that in time, healthy balance will return. Begin to pick up the shattered pieces and reframe life believing, this too shall pass.

 

Without Anticipation

 

"We must remember how to honor and respect life with each 

breath, step, word, and thought. What you bless blesses you

in return. This is the power of reciprocity."

Sandra Ingerman

Thoughtful friends are a blessing in our lives. The ones who always seem to know just what we need or have the willingness to share. Whether it is a snippet of a poem or a tomato from the garden, the unexpected gesture nourishes our hearts. Often, such gestures are made without any anticipation for a return gift which enhances the thoughtfulness.

There are times when we are hiding our discomfort and a friend coincidentally shares a piece of inspiration which pinpoints our mood. Emotion may well up and therefore, we may not be able to say anything. It is never too late, however, at another time to say, "Thanks for your kind words the other day. They were just what I needed."

Life has shown me, repeatedly, to not give with the expectation of return. If we keep our responses or gestures lovingly simple, there is a freedom of happiness just in sharing. Actions may never be acknowledged by the recipient, but make no mistake ...  blessings will flow back into our lives when we least expect it. Humbly embrace unexpected arrivals.

Beautiful Discovery

"The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that

they can grow separately without growing apart."

Elisabeth Foley 

Competition within a relationship can be healthy as long as you are encouraging each other. The emphasis is not on the winning, but upon the journey together. When there is trust, we do not experience anxiety as our moving parts go in different directions. When we are able to expand and contract, the relationship thrives.

There is truth that we can outgrow some friends and situations, as we are hopefully forever changing. Contrarily, when we use the depths of communication, our transitions do not damage the bonds. When we can speak honestly, transitions and rebirthing can be a thread that strengthens our relationship.

When others are no longer aligned with our journey, it doesn't necessarily mean departure. As long as there is respect for each other and an atmosphere of support, things can continue to move forward. Distance can become a factor, but if we nurture each other, there is no need for a premature ending based upon distance. Reunions can be glorious!

 

Master The Spiral

"The human mind always makes progress,

but it is a progress in spirals."

Madame de Stael

When we spiral upwards, joy fills every cell of our being creating a sense of heavenly bliss. Filled with curiosity, we eagerly move forward as our light brightens the way. Inevitably, the opposite comes true. We eventually find ourselves sliding downwards in darkness and fear. This is the on going movement within our cycles.

The upward spiral heals and encourages us. We feel powerful with enthusiasm to take on the world. This, however, may be fleeting as we find ourselves challenged or maybe even threatened as we backslide. The importance of course is to continue moving, not ever becoming stuck and never giving up.

If we remain alert when we are in the spiral, action can drive us forward. Without wasting time wandering in the darkness, we can remember this is simply part of the process offering the opportunity to change. As we learn to shift maintaining a positive attitude, we can benefit from both the ups and the downs. A learning process, indeed.