Portrayed As Evil

"There's a little witch in all of us."

Alice Hoffman

The image of a witch is finally shifting back to a woman capable of working magic with the intention of healing. Educated in the benefits of herbs and tinctures, these mislabeled geniuses extended loving kindness and compassion towards all who sought help, healing or intuitive guidance.

How tragic these women were portrayed as evil and ungodly. Tormented, brutally treated, and thrown into fires at the hands of threatened men. Needing to live in seclusion and hiding talents given by the Divine, they continued to assist others suffering in pain. Sadly ironic, our culture is now looking back and duplicating natural ways of healing.

Every woman in existence is capable of working magic whether it is for their children, friends, animals or gardens. Given impromptu situations, mothers from all generations rise to the occasion of healing the inflicted. Whether extending potions, huge hugs or healing energies, the natural response of a witch is kindness not cruelty. 

 

Beyond The Facade

"Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened

the figure of a free people. A nation does not have 

to be cruel to be tough."

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Anticipating the celebration of halloween, I am reminded of of how adults are immediately drawn into child's play. Perhaps they have made special treats or surprise youngsters as they approach the door. Adults and children laugh together creating the sense of equal kindness. Uniqueness is praised and barriers easily dissipate.

These little ones hiding behind masks think they are unrecognizable, but adults see through the mask, recognizing perhaps their eyes. And isn't this true, that when we take the time to gaze beyond the facade, eyes into the soul stare right back at us? Taking our time to see into the heart of others generates compassion.

It is beneficial to look into the mirror, taking inventory of the image we are projecting. Is it a creative version of the self, freeing restrictions and welcoming life or is our mask stunted and out grown? Choosing to be an active participant in human kindness breeds peace in the seat of the soul.

Give Me A Boost!

"When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached,

don't adjust the goals adjust the action steps."

Confucius

Every once in awhile, all of us could use a boost, but we become hesitant to ask. Perhaps, we do not like to admit that we are needing help. Maybe we have a strong need to be private, but ultimately realize we can not do this alone. There comes a time when we need to revamp our plans and adjust our thinking.

With courage we can move forward. We can repeat mantras to support our vision and be resilient in our adaptation. Tuning down opinions of others can assist in streamlining our focus. Eliminating resources that no longer support us forward, we create room for new input for creative thinking to propel us forward. 

Discernment is often times needed, but opening our goals with others can bring in new direction and adjustment. Sorting through conversations and resources, we can regroup and design a new approach. When we are open and flexible while asking for help, progression increases and we draw closer to achievement. 
 

Meditation Improves Memory Loss

 

"Through regular meditation practice, you can improve 

your attention span and memory, among other cognitive abilities."

Virginia Rehabilitation and Wellness Studies

As we age, the slightest change in memory recall can push us into a spin fueled by fears of dementia. Maybe it is becoming more difficult to focus or resistance to change routines which ultimately hampers natural flow. Rather than investing in pharmaceuticals, apply personal power to create a meditation practice.

When we are challenged, clear thinking is reduced to scattered responses. Lacking in sleep, suffering from loss, and uncertain futures, all contribute to memory loss. Creating a simple but consistent meditation practice strengthens focus and enables the ability to retain more memory while working on a task.

Insight Timer for example is an appropriate free app that offers numerous guides, adjustable time settings, and diverse scenarios. Meditation will be like anything else ... the more you practice, the better it will work. With a beginner's mind, stay open and flexible. Confidence will increase and with patience, results will be readily noticed.

Heart Connection

"When we really connect to that place of wisdom and strength

and understanding, everything becomes easier."

Arianna Huffington

Using a heart centered approach towards all parts of life, creates healthier experiences and deeper understandings. When we live by our moral code, choices to do the right thing wins over being uncomfortable. Learning consistently helps us to be more open and flexible. Knowing who we are in our heart center, we move forward unapologetically. 

When we have a greater sense of self, the pathways leading to the unknown can become an adventure rather than a threat. Believing that we are capable of facing whatever life brings, eases our steps moving forward. We are content in spite of not knowing all of the answers. We are comfortable being wrong and open to correction.

Over the years, we grow out of touch with who we truly are at the core. We may have given so much of ourselves away, there may be fragmentation rather than healthy persona. We out grow favorite pass times, and no longer appreciate habitual patterns. As we yearn for new life experiences, it is imperative to align all matters with the heart.

 

Apple of My Eye

"You are the apple of my eye.

Forever you will stay in my heart."

Stevie Wonder

There is such beauty to be found while viewing an apple tree. There are apple blossoms, multi-colored skins, and the heaviness of the branches bearing this fruit. There are multiple kinds of apples, some being sweet while others are tart. Particular apples are good for eating while others are perfect for baking or apple butter. 

It is easy to liken friends to the existence of apples. Each one has its own essence and strengths with multi-colored skins. Our friends weigh heavy in our heart and meet individual needs in relationship. Whether collectively or selectively, friends contribute to our life in a variety of ways.

In this fall season, my heart is overwhelmed by joy. I am blessed with a brilliant spectrum of color, a variety of fragrances, and an abundance of outdoor activities. The connection with nature is especially strong, calling me outside for walks and talks. Breathing in energies, my creative juices flow into all parts of my life. 

 

My Oldest Friends

"I think books are like people, in the sense

that they'll turn up in your life

when you most need them."

Emma Thompson

Libraries have always been a place of comfort for me. I could browse for hours, getting lost in both time and subject matter. The same holds true of used bookstores. I could wander indefinitely. Browsing, I come across old favorites of mine, and it is so similar to the experience of running into an old friend.

My favorite authors are as diverse as my confidantes. I am selective and particular as I intrust my absolute attention into their writings. I become a silent observer as I fall into the story line totally enthralled. If there isn't an instant rapport, however, I easily select a different read as there are so many waiting to be explored.

Reading a book can be both encouraging and healing. When we are careful in our selection of subject matter, we can discover new methods of thinking, being, and doing. Wisdom seeps through the author's words if we but pay attention. With the turning of each page, comfort and renewal reaches out to our souls.

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Leaves Dancing Down

"I hope I can be the autumn leaf, who looked at the sky

and lived. And when it was time to leave, gracefully

it knew life was a gift."

Dodinsky

In the fall, when I glance at various trees, color delights my eyes. If I take the time to look at individual leaves, I am amazed at the differing hues and shapes. By their individual markings, I am reminded of the wind and rain they have endured. As they fall from the branches, some simply float while others dance their way down.

This seems so symbolic to me, but then I heavily identify with trees and their leaves.  I have known the joy of sunshine and the elevation of higher views. I know what it is like to be out on a limb, hanging on in spite of unexpected changes. And now experiencing the space of free falling, trying to maintain grace as I dance my way down.

I have yet to permanently hit the ground as I am being tumbled here and there. I have not lost all of my color yet and my diversity continues to shine. As I watch leaves being raked up into a pile, I remember that I, too, will be bundled with kindred spirits grateful to be returning to our original home. 

Power Over ...

"Women's liberation is the liberation of the feminine in the man,

and the masculine in the woman."

Corita Kent

In making a difference, one needs to be able to work with both his or her masculine and feminine energy. A masculine driven world is now being impacted by feminine energy. This does not mean that patriarchy needs to be replaced by matriarchy. Blending both aspects empowers individuals to work in harmony. 

Each one of us houses both masculine and feminine energy. When we are able to fluctuate between these male and female attributes, alignment increases our ability to participate effectively. We can be strong or gentle based upon any given situation. It is detrimental to be stuck in one side, but liberating when we flow in and out of both.

No one needs to have 'power over' any individual. Owning our abilities to be both assertive and creative, enhances self-worth. There is no benefit in restricting either men or women. Each human being has the capability of being powerful no matter the gender. Authentic gifts impact the world more than sexual identity. 

 

Quiet Assessment

"In any given moment we have two options:

to step forward into growth or step back into safety."

Abraham Maslow 

We can live simply, but still be deliberate in our choices. As we read, observe others, and listen to conversations, helpful insights are gathered. We become more aware of our personal preferences and areas needing improvement or enhancement. By doing so, we create a greater sense of connection with ourselves and the world around us.

When allowed, the beauty of nature wraps around us. We may feel comforted or guided as though Mother Earth is holding us in loving care. As we move our body through the solitude of natural creation, the silence triggers our imagination. Our perspective can be softened, allowing for new insights to improve the depth of involvement. 

Acknowledging the value of our life, we begin to hold ourselves more accountable. We become aware of how our presence impacts others whether in a positive or negative manner. Our inner voice speaks a little louder and we become an aligned presence aware of emotions, reactions, and fears.   

 

Diverse Life Contributions

"I am such a complex person, I have so many different 

layers of my personality to choose from. I am 

super sensitive and I am super strong." 

Lykke Li

Our culture seems to be finally changing from one singular label for each person to recognizing various identifications. Personally, I have great admiration for those who are multi-sided. We create stress when trying to limit ourselves to being just one thing, when we have the potential of being many things.

The more diversified we become, life seems to be more fulfilling. When we reach into our depths, liberation and connection abound. What satisfies us in one stage of life may become suffocating in one other. Professionally, our contribution may be one thing, but our joy may come from other side lines.

Younger generations seem to be skipping around in differing jobs, rather than staying in one place for a long haul. I see this as a good thing, speculating they are exploring different aspects of the self. It is good to step outside of a projected image as we then become much more interesting and versatile in life contributions.  

 

Facing Sunflowers

"Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see the shadows.

It's what the sunflowers do."

Helen Keller

Sunflowers are just one radiant presence in nature. I never particularly appreciated them until my youngest son grew a field full of these flowers as he loved the seeds. He did not tell me he had done this until he brought me to the field as a surprise. It was filled with brilliant yellow colors and I was overwhelmed and brought to tears.

Since the trip to my son's field, sunflowers evoke a deep sense of connection within me. Taking in their radiance expands my acceptance of all things. Somehow they are like an equalizer, reminding me that I am consistently surrounded by beauty that I have yet to see. As they sway in a field, a sense of everlasting happiness swells inside of me.

I can hardly wait to bring sunflowers home to snuggle into a vase. Glancing up to see them stirs my heart. I notice them in greater detail, developing an appreciation for the petals and the tight seeds in the center. And is this not symbolic of life ... slowing down to appreciate the uniqueness of everything around us?

Uncharted Passageways!

"Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable."

Mary Oliver

One of the best mantras I have ever heard is "this or something better" which can be used at the end of a prayer, intention, or expectation. We can be narrow minded, missing what is right before us. Rigidity in thinking, eliminates interpretations floating in front of us. The universe or the Divine utilizes creative expression and we too often miss it.

Immediate manifestation is rarely before us. With our limited view, we may not see far enough ahead to realize what we ask for is not what we need. Trust is required as jumping ahead with uncertainty may lead us farther away from our goal. Opening the mind with our desires rooted, faith for results abides.

We have the ability to be creative and think outside of the box, so why do we not utilize this feature? By expanding dream lines without knowing exactly how to orchestrate results, can attract that which we need. We don't need to have all of the answers. Open the thought process and let lofty thoughts escort us into uncharted passageways! 

 

Wise Old Owl ...

"You are your own teacher. Investigate yourself

to find the truth ... inside, not outside."

Ajahn Chah 

If an owl were asking you, "Who, who, who..." how would you reply? Think of the description you might offer gazing into the owl's penetrating eyes. Then imagine what your response might be if it were God asking you to explain who you truly are and how you are using your gifts in this place and time.

It is necessary to peel back damaged layers of the self and rediscover the beauty inside. Remember what you love to do and how you best relate. Hold yourself responsible for designing your current life so that you will experience the joy in thriving. It no longer matters what others say or what you have done, as you are beginning, again, today.  

If you choose to ignore the challenges before you, they will simply keep reappearing until they are addressed. Each time a lesson appears, you have the opportunity to expand and heighten life's experience. You are the teacher so you can have more! Know thyself and listen for the roar!

Hanging In The Sky

"The moon was reigning all over the world, glowing its

full splendor to all those willing to look up."

Irina Serban

A full moon in the sky tonight and if aware, we can feel the change in the energy surrounding us. As the lunar cycle hits the full moon stage, there is a tendency for disruptions. It is like we are drawn to unfinished business just prior to the next new phase. And of course, the new moon offers space for creating new beginnings.

The brilliance of the full moon helps us to see more clearly. It is a perfect time to reflect upon what we have accomplished and what has been left undone. During this stage of the moon, we can feel as though our energies are ramped up higher than normal. This is why we must seek clarity and choose our actions carefully.

As we gaze up into the night's sky with our eyes taking in this full moon, think of how many others are doing just the same. There is one moon hanging in the sky, welcoming all peoples to share in its radiance. Pull in this positive energy, feeling empowered and linked to all peoples, each and every one. 

Unfiltered Feelings

"It is not the answer that enlightens, but the question."

Eugene Ionesco

With trusted friends, there is comfort in just being present with each other. Our guard is let down and our inner thoughts can freely flow. We are able to release what is bothering us or express disjointed emotions weighing us down. Sometimes just articulating brings us closer to understanding what is beneath dis-ease.

Together, we don't always desire an evaluation, but rather, just the space to be heard. Unfiltered feelings can be released making room for repair.  There is comfort in hearing our friend feed back to us what we just shared. This provides comfort as we feel understood which provides a layer to our healing process.

The friend who is listening need not worry about having experienced answers. The listener simply rephrases what was just shared without criticism or judgment. The arising questions become the new stimulant. Sisters of the heart take turns listening, while walking on the pathways to deeper understanding. 

 

Bend, Don't Break

"I bend so I don't break."

Yoga Nut

In the world today, we are bombarded by opinions and resources, many of which are diverse to our personal viewpoint. It is important to not shut ourselves off from information, but to be selective of exposure. We will live a balanced life when we are flexible rather than using avoidance or isolation as a resolve.

The key is to sit and listen to what is being said. Relax the mind and let the words flow. Whatever is being shared does not have to impact our own life. Sift through the information, choosing what is beneficial and release the rest. If we are especially triggered, we may want to explore the origin of  reaction.

We may be faced with plans gone awry based on trauma whether physical, emotional or spiritual. When we can readjust our thinking and be open to improvement or change, we are less likely to break. We may need to pull back or zero in to discover pertinent actions. Determine what is needed and how best to achieve it.

 

Show Your Soul!

"One of the most calming and powerful actions 

you can do to intervene in a stormy world is

to stand up and show your soul!"

Clarissa Pinkola Estes

We waste our energy struggling to right the world on our own. Fear triggers a sense of overwhelm, and we forget the power residing within us. Right in this moment, what can we do to generate positive energy? Can we create a sense of calm that can be brought out into the world around us?

Open the windows and hear the birds singing songs to remind us there is order in the midst of confusion. When running water from the faucet, let it spill over our hands, reminding us of oceans and waterfalls. Play gentle music as it is a language to our soul, calming, restoring, and healing our woes.

When the soul is fed through nurturing actions, our energy is heightened and our presence is felt by those surrounding us. As we generate goodness, it leaks through our physical body and touches everything surrounding us. As we stand with kindness streaming from our eyes, heart, and soul, we give hope to others, making a difference after all!

Messages In Silence

"Prayer is talking to the Universe.

Meditation is listening to it."

Tao and Zen

It is often difficult to put our thoughts into words. Taking time is necessary to filter through our mindless inner chatter and uncover our core emotions. Honesty in search of unbiased clarity can unearth questions without answers. Then we turn to the Divine or the Universe asking for direction.

Unfortunately, we do not listen for the answers when they do not immediately appear. We may miss incoming wisdom if we are wanting resolution to be equated to our already formed opinion. Our perception of response may be too limited, disallowing answers to take shape of diverse people, places and things.

Rather than be short sighted, we must gather information that can be applied to not only the present moment, but also to extended time. As we step back, perhaps then we can see the bigger picture, giving reason to layers of application that now seem irrelevant. It is when we sit quietly and pay attention to various messengers that we can prosper.

 

Visionary Bubble

 

"When you look for the bad, expecting it, you will get it.

When you know you will find the good ...

you will get that!'

Eleanor H. Porter, Pollyanna

As a child, my longing to be seen as good created a visionary bubble within me where I held others at their spiritual level. I tuned out their human faults, and kept my eyes on their light inside, no matter how great or small. Yes, I would get disillusioned when faults became apparent, but I longed to love them even more.

One could say my vision was impaired by viewing others at a spiritual level, but throughout life I continued to do so. I loved, and I loved hard, determined that others would feel connection as deep as my need for belonging. I would not judge, believing they would find their way to higher ground.

Humans are now challenging my sense of sanctity. I am pulling my energy inside. No longer do I wish to hear harsh judgments nor view world-weariness. Inwardly, in my visionary bubble I can hold light for others without physical exchange.  It is my belief that 'old souls' and visiting angels will persevere and stay the course while others slowly awaken. 

Angels Guiding Advice

"When we open our hearts, angels appear in the form of guiding

voices, helping us to find our way in the darkness of life."

Paulo Coelho

Overwhelmed by chaos in thought, words, and deeds, I find it necessary to step back in silence awaiting the guidance of angels. Just as storms race across the south creating death and havoc, the same can be said of penetrating public words. Collective energy is swirling, making it next to impossible to stand upon safe ground.

My heart hurts as words are speared into the sanctity of others. Where is the integrity, and respect intentioned to all peoples? When did freedom of speech turn into thrusts of violence and hatred? Blatant dysfunctional patterns of behavior are being displayed rather than the much needed acts of kindness.

I am stepping back from those who are relentless in causing division rather than embracing deeper connection. My arms are weary of holding space for those who deliberately choose to defile it. I will sit back, waiting for the angels to whisper to me of peace, promising me that this fear will subside. 

No Longer Sure Footed

"The truth is that our finest moments are most likely to occur

when we are feeling deeply uncomfortable, unhappy or unfulfilled."

M. Scott Peck

Life becomes an adventure when we recognize symbolic signs as they magically appear. Whether it is a word that consistently pops up or a recurring action, when we take heed, our curiosity kicks in. When guided off charted ground, we feel uncomfortable and vulnerable, but these are not reasons to stop.

Following our inner compass, we are lead to take reasonable risks, and sink deeply into wisdom, allowing doubt and speculation. Although we may not be sure footed, we wander rough terrain developing a true sense of who we are and whom we want to be. We form meaningful language for new communication.

Discovery is rarely a smooth paved road. There are rocks and boulders and perhaps a bit of swimming up stream. It may be tiresome and disorienting, but aligning with intuition, moving forward reaps rewards. Our outward journey is mirrored internally, developing a heightened sense of who we truly are meant to be. 

 

Feeling Shadows

"Never let negative thoughts over power you,

because they lead to nothing. Embrace positive thinking,

as it is the key that can take you to the heights of success."

Life Changing Quotes

Lift your eyes up towards the sun and notice the birds soaring in the sky. They fly into high winds, adjusting their wings as they go.  We must do the same. Every thing we are facing requires adaptation. Just as we watch the sun set while trusting it will rise again in the morn, we must believe in the successful elevation of self.

Darkness hovers everywhere, but as we nurture our internal light, illumination out shines the darkness. We can feel shadows pushing against us, but this is no reason to forget we have choices to positively impact outcome. When we hold ourselves accountable, we no longer suffer in the role of victim.

Life 'happens' to trigger our strengths and utilize lessons learned. We are not doomed, unless we simply give in to overwhelm. Revisit options and imagine various scenarios as to how we want our life to be. Don't wait for immaculate intervention. Follow the sun beams, watch the light slip into darkness, and then feel the joy as it rises in the morn.
 

Existence and Co-Existence

 

"By living intentionally and with consideration for all life,

you and I can make a better world."

Christine Easwaran

The gospels refer to the word agape which calls for a profound respect for other's values, transcendence of self-interest, and extending kindness in surrounding spaces. It is about being secure enough in your own existence that you can enjoy the belief systems of all peoples without judgment.

We have invested time in enhancing our personal lives, and there is a need to appreciate the diverse journeys taken by others. We are not all here for cookie cutter lives. Each of us has a unique ability to bring into existence, and in co-existence with others. When we can honor both ourselves as well as others, we deepen our human experience and that of others.

If we can hold space for others and silently observe, the realization of how we all struggle to untangle our driving emotional forces becomes apparent. There is a vast amount of information that remains hidden in all of us and life is a process of discovery. So let's provide kindness to all people, as they are very much like us.

Fostering Hope

"Hope is like the sun, which, as we journey

toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us."

Samuel Smiles

In spite of our circumstances, we do better if we have something to look forward to. It can be anything from a silent hour on our porch to a lengthy stay at a favorite destination. Slowing down to notice a new growth on our plant or the frantic activities of a squirrel in the yard, generates a sense of peace.

Life is laced with hope.  Hope that we will make a difference, maintain health, or embrace love. When hope is kept alive, we are able to endure the heaviness of our day. No matter what we face, endurance is strengthened by believing positive shifts will be made. We all need something to aspire towards. 

A friend shared with me her routine of standing at the sink and allowing warm water to wash over her hands. She welcomes this cleansing and enjoys the sensation of each falling drop. It is symbolic for her, imagining that new beginnings foster hope. Without hope, we begin to wither away.

Lesson In Discomfort

 

"Create with the heart; build with the mind."

Criss Jami

When powerful winds blow against us, we can either stand still while being broken or be flexible while bending. When we race full force ahead, nuances suggesting alternate courses can be overlooked. If our thinking is rigid with concrete expectations, we may miss out on directives from the Divine.

Transitioning is a process and unless our minds are open, we may become stagnant. There needs to be a balance between push and patience. Don't stop, but don't rush. By being open to possibilities, energy continues to resurface propelling us into new territories. Creating this rhythm lessens resistance and fosters clarity.

By being neutral when inventorying the self, there is less judgment. If something is uncomfortable, then explore why that is and learn to understand it. Often, we gain more through our discomfort as it leads to new insights and passageways. Place less energy in the outcome and more into what is a learning experience right before us.

Breaking Silence

"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

A sense of empowerment is experienced when we speak up using our voice. It doesn't matter if we are uncertain or open ended, it is healthy to share our feelings, opinions, and observations with selected friends. We speak our truth as we know it in the moment, open to shifts in our understanding or strengthening what we believe.

Often when words are shared out loud, we hear ourselves in differing ways. We may be surprised by what we have said or realize we no longer feel that particular way. Shared words can reduce our fears and lift our awareness.  In so doing, we may be nudged to further our beliefs by adding new resources.

Whether physically, mentally or spiritually researching, new space needs to be created in order to make additions. This is the act of transitioning. With clarity, we become aware of what no longer supports us. Then we begin a search for new additions to shape our character. These will be met with clarity created by fresh leeways. 

Utilizing Power

"You are not what you've done.

You are what you keep doing."

Jack Butcher

Recently at a reunion, I listened to the personal achievements of those attending. Who interested me the most were individuals that broke from conformity, and applied personal strengths to reach fulfillment. Stepping down from family or peer pressure, they dared to be led into the unknown for purposeful discovery. 

Some achievements etched into life were similar, but the happiest attendees were those who had empowered themselves by using creative measures based upon skill. Often times, this meant switching jobs and veering off into the unknown. In hindsight, they could see how each move had been a layer in preparation for reward.

At one time, the most desired outcome was monetary gain which of course everyone desires. But at what cost? Do you sell your soul? Entrepreneurs share that fulfillment comes from introducing unique ways to uplift others balanced by supplements to maintain a healthy and supportive lifestyle. Productive achievements is a gain in itself.

Through The Heart ...

"The world exists as we perceive it.

It's not what you see, it's how you see it."

Kevin C. Harmony

 There was an article I read a year or so ago, talking about contact with others. It suggested small greetings or holding a door open, or assisting in a situation to generate kindness. I decided to take it to a higher level and customize my exchanges to truly make a difference, especially when I was not feeling comfortable in our world.

Wherever I went, I would say to the clerk, "Thank you for working today!" I watched faces and noticed how caught off guard they were resulting in a shift of emotions. I felt I had made a difference and I felt kinder for it. In certain situations where time allowed, brief exchanges expanded into fun conversations brightening my day.

When our hearts are heavy and vision distorted,  look outside of ourselves through the heart. Reaching out to others without expectations, lifts our moods and allows for feelings of connection. Disregarding the heaviness of life, we can extend our light to others and fortunately, it reflects back onto us. 

Creating Ritual

"Rituals are not fixed ... they are constructed and

reconstructed over time, to fit people's needs."

Gleb Tsipursky

In the spontaneous spirit of women's spirituality, ritual is born. With respect to all that is holy, we craft practices that bring cleansing, comfort, and connection. Whether gazing into a candle's flame or following nature's path, communication lifts our souls and strengthens our sense of hope and freedom.

Creating a ritual involves setting an intention whether it be for peace, healing or discovery. There is a welcome extended to the Divine or spiritual guide establishing a space where we feel safe. Music of any tone can be added as well as dance. There is freedom in creating components that feel holy to ourselves.s

Establishing a private space to pray, worship or seek wisdom, provides us with a sense of belonging and available connection. Determining a special time using various tools or choosing quiet moments in still scenarios, helps to establish  a practice with a ritual nurturing our human form as well as our soul.

 

Hoarding Trauma

"Any refusal to recognize reality for any reason whatever,

has disastrous consequences."

Ayn Rand 

The experience of trauma gets in the way of being able to talk about distressed feelings. Our rational brain is unable to convince our emotional brain that it is safe to move forward. We may be able to comfortably share the action as it happened to us, but incapable to put the internal experience into words.

No matter how much insight and understanding we receive professionally or through spiritual practices, articulating what is buried deep inside remains festering. There is a tendency to relive devastating assaults without separating them from the present moment. There does not seem to be a past or future, just the unbearable present.

After shock, we may find ourselves moving down the brick road, incapable of observing or appreciating life as it unfolds. The bricks beneath our feet move unsteadily, and any sense of sure footedness dissolves. When we finally reach our breaking point, there is relief and a desire to begin again, leaving sorrow behind.