Embracing Dark Clouds ...

"Look up at the sky. There is a light, a beauty up there

that no shadow can touch."

J.R.R. Tolkien 

Sitting out on the balcony, the cold air was not helping to warm my soul. I felt a heaviness and a darkness that I was hoping the winds would blow away. I experienced a tremendous sense of loneliness that just would not go away. Then I glanced up to the sky, sighting a dark cloud. Quickly, I noticed light consuming it.

I had forgotten that I am never alone, not really. Healing energy swarms around me, just waiting for me to ask for help. No matter how dark or how heavy my cloud, it can be pierced by light energy, releasing the droplets of darkness. I can choose to remain suspended in the glory of relief or turn my thoughts back to negativity.

I believe when I constantly look down at my feet, I become distracted trying to avoid potholes. When I lightheartedly gaze up to the sky, I open myself for inspiration and creativity. Watching the white clouds embrace the dark ones, I also notice the sun beaming light down upon me.

 

Penetrating Words

"Tell my every terrible thing you ever did,

and let me love you anyway."

Edgar Allan Poe 

Jumping from the page, the words pierced my heart. Continuing on. more words flooded my awareness with harsh reality. The words were innocently written and not directed to me, but each and every syllable resonated. These penetrating words were more insightful than any psychic could ever be.

And that is the importance of writing, allowing words to flow while releasing our internal expressions. Then if shared with others, once again the verses can be delivered with the strength of spirit.  Words written can take on a life of their own, shifting in meaning, portrayal and implication.

Exchanging buried words can strengthen relationships and advance understanding in both the writer and the reader. This is true whether we know the author or not. Connection is made through the articulation of the words themselves, triggering a broader assessment of meaning in our individual lives.

 

Where Is The Child?

"The most potent muse of all is our own inner child."

Stephen Nachmanovich

On this beautiful fall day, I was driving down a tree lined street admiring the remaining colorful leaves. I noticed an old fashioned rope swing with a wooden plank seat, hanging from a branch with a bed of gathered leaves below. Instantly, a small quiet voice within asked me, 'where is the child?' 

The question was like an echo within me. Where was my playfulness? When did I last laugh from my belly? Where was I when last mesmerized by giggling and nonsense? Without childlike curiosity, I had recently lost my innocence for life. Magic had faded and I no longer felt connected and bonded through the mysteries of life.

It is with a child's heart that we write poetry, abstractly sketch and paint, and play music that lifts our soul. Upon removing blinders, we can once again see joy in all things and enjoy a true sense of freedom and play. Grasp a few moments of having simple fun, laughing and not caring about anything. Find the inner child longing to play.

Slither In The Grass

"Observe your thoughts, don't believe them."

Eckhart Tolle

When snakes cannot shed their skin, they get sick and die with no one ever seeing the new pattern they were about to display. There definitely is a lesson in this portrayal. Life is nothing but change and we are beckoned to adjust accordingly. It is healthy for us to constantly adjust our body, mind, and soul in order to reach fulfillment. 

We are called to release the past, forgive the present, and lessen the focus on the future. In the present moment, we begin to sense alternatives in our assessments which facilitate forward movement. When we choose not to adapt, we begin to slither, cautiously creating our personal venom capable of killing ourselves or others.

Slithering away from those who do not herald the shedding of outgrown skin, (best known as snake charmers), we begin to create our new pattern relinquishing fears. We face the truth that we must create anew or suffocate in our own delusions. The kundalini energy coiled in a snake, resides in us as well, waiting for us to take action!

Falling ...

"You may have a fresh start any moment you choose,

for this thing that we call 'failure' is not in the

falling down, but in the staying down."

Mary Pickford

Surge forward my friend, for you have fallen before and thankfully did not stay down. Life is swaddled in choice, if we but seek it. It doesn't matter who witnesses our graceful decline or who tells of how we have been spurned. What matters is how we stoke our inner fire to try again with deliberation and curiosity. 

If we can maintain hope, we will not be as apt to fall into negative or destructive patterns. Rebuilding inner strength is worthy of our energy, not falling prey to the judgment or ridicule of others. It is our life and we must hold the self accountable by application of the highest intention.

If we find ourselves struggling, turn to personal ritual, and write profusely until the heart bleeds no more. Remember that life is not to be lived alone. Reach out to the Divine for insights, asking for spirits to light the way. Find strength in seeking help from trusted others. Embrace vision backed by diverse effort and decline the skepticism of others 

 

Magic In The Maze

"Anytime you're in a maze, there's multiple

ways to get to the end."

Martellus Bennett

Our lives are similar to mazes with unexpected twists and turns. We may think we are correctly moving forward, only to find our lovely selves at a dead end. Often, we need to turn around and begin again, and then again. Faith is required as we persevere, not really knowing exactly where we are going.

As we move forward, it is helpful to pay attention to things we pass. They may initially appear to be insignificant, but in recall, they might be pivotal. It helps to keep an open mind with excitement for discovery. Override any tendency to slip into fear as it is an illusion. Broaden focus to embrace the entire experience, not just footfalls. 

When traveling through a maze, we mistakenly forget to look up for lofty vision or details in the starlit sky. We may become so focused on our feet, placing one in front of the other, that the magic of a journey is lost. Discovery along the way may impact us more deeply than the happiness at the end.

 

Images In The Dark

"Like a photographer of the invisible, I have spent my life

trying to develop images in the dark room of my heart."

Mark Nepo

Sit in your heart center without any outside distractions. Breathe easily and try your best to relax. Begin to notice the sensations pulsing in your body.  Go slowly, bringing awareness to each hidden part. Patiently wait for your body to reveal what is being trapped inside. An image might surface or a gently whispered insight shared.

You are the light that travels within to explore the darkness. The goal is to face what is disguised as a physical ailment and resolve that which disrupts. Exactly what is it that is causing mental fatigue? Loosen the tightly knit threads to acknowledge that which bothers the soul.

When the heart feels heavy, do not just bear it. Do not just put on a brave face and muddle through. There is a lesson needing to be learned and the longer you ignore it, the greater it shall grow. Discover what is lodged in your heart and decide what needs to go. Be the light to cast out the shadows of restraint and fear.

Empowered By Fire

"One must never let the fire go out in one's soul,

but keep it burning."

Vincent van Gogh

There is something nurturing about gathering around a campfire. We can be sitting side by side with trusted friends, and our eyes can become magnetized by the flames. As we are physically warmed by the burning fire, our cold thoughts are easily replaced by nurturing reveries. Watching the burning coals, we can feel inspiration and healing.

Gathered together, wrapped in blankets, a sense of security prevails. We may surprise ourselves as we unexpectedly speak out sharing a private dream or embedded sorrow. A campfire can be just as empowering as a personal ritual. It is a safe space to once again choose a higher path or a deeper plunge.

Watching the smoke curl up into the sky, we can experience a sense of release. We can feel ourselves letting go of uncertainty that we may be harboring. We can readjust our goals and dreams. Our hearts are warmed just as much as our feet which are prepared to move forward once again into the unknown darkness.

 

Conflicted Perceptions

"The quality of our lives depends not on whether or not we have conflicts,

but on how we respond to them."

Thomas Crum

Life challenges have groomed me to sit in patience when facing conflict. Listening to others rather than preparing my responses is imperative. If I can understand 'where' the person is coming from, understanding his or her point of view can be seen from a different angle. For me, it is not about agreeing or disagreeing, but on understanding diverse perceptions.

Currently, I have been extremely caught off guard by angry conversations amongst friends. Questioning the defiance laced in loud voices, there seems to be an element of winning or losing. If we don't understand, I believe, we will not reach resolution no matter how high our voices are raised.

Conversations with others, I hear myself offering encouraging words. Meantime, my inner child is screaming with fear, frightened that quality of life will go awry. These are difficult times, and we must join together, not tear each other apart. I believe in peace and know we all must work together to advance towards the life we were meant to have.

Do Something!

"Do something today that your higher self will love; change something 

in yourself today that your future self will thank you for."

Vadim Kotelnikov 

Growing up, Sundays were a day to escape the weight of life. Families would go to church to connect with the Divine and then gather around a table for a kindhearted meal. It was a day for restoration, a reprieve from worries and fear. In this time and space, perhaps we need a week filled with Sundays!

Our mind chatter permeates our interaction with those around us. It is fed by the news and  growing uncertainty. If we choose to slip into a space of silence, we are able to connect with the Divine, In the presence of what we deem as holy, we can rebalance and calm our mind, rebuilding confidence and adjusting perspectives.

Rather than being misled by mindless chatter, we listen inside to reestablish our ability to hold light, generate kindness, and be the love we seek. We are powerful beings and by banding together in peace, we can pave the way towards stability. With each step, choose positive action. Make the choice to be the difference we are longing to see.

 

Being The Best

"We must learn to reawaken and keep ourselves awake,

not by mechanical aid, but by infinite expectation of the dawn."

Henry David Thoreau

In the spring, I feel myself tight and constricted, testing how best to protect my inner dreams and aspirations. Slowly my sense of safety allows my leaves to uncurl. Pushing outward my beauty unfolds. Summer allows deep growth in spite of harsh heat to the soul. And now it is fall. I love the coloration, but saddened by the faltering breaths. Winter will be a time of rest.

The phases of nature can run parallel to self-discovery and spiritual growth. No matter the season, as humans, we are called to be deep rooted while stretching to reach full potential. This process is not error free and it is impossible to dodge the subterfuge of others. It is in the recall of remembering our choice and fueling our soul.

We shift in acceleration, allowing time to rest and restore; but, we must never remain stiff and slow. We are here to experience and to live fully no matter how change bombards us. If we don't know who we are, explore with heightened adventure. If there is a sense of who we are meant to be, then by all means,  endeavor to be the best we can be.

 

Outside of Me

"Your visions will become clear only when you can look

into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who 

looks inside, awakes."

Carl Jung

I pick up my journal, and grab a pen, as I settle into my comfortable chair. This is a safe space for me as there is no judgment, so no need to edit. Just beginning, my words may be stilted, but as I go, there is nothing but free flow. Uncensored pain escapes from me and fears spread across the page ... finally outside of me.

Psychologically, it is vitally important to unpack emotional layers that interrupt our sense of wellness. When not addressed, these carelessly stacked feelings begin to blanket our physical health. Sorrow and pain when stacked together become the weight of our world. When there is no where to turn, no one to listen, a pen and journal become healing tools.

Writing helps us to become centered, once again. Hidden thoughts escape onto the page and we become wiser. With greater understanding of the stacked layers, we find the energy to begin removing them. Physically, we begin to feel stronger and emotionally lighter. Hope returns with the will to move forward. 

”

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Sunday, Embrace The Sun

"Hatred will never be the path to healing or to peace."

Unknown

This is Sunday, a perfect time to absorb light, whether outdoors or inside. Stand facing the sun welcoming it into the body or sit in meditation expanding personal radiance. Clear away old fears and minimize what is weighing the heart down. Create visualizations of how we want our world to be.

We need to stop allowing fear to override our peace of mind. When personal radiance exposes what we have hidden, we can move through our darkness. When walls within ourselves are lowered, we are more apt to decrease the division we see in the world. We are called to be strong and believe in our desires for peace.

Over the years, we have been faced with challenges, but somehow mustered the strength to move through them, healing and becoming stronger. Although we may feel disillusioned with current discord, reach out to kindred spirits enjoying the safety of the bond. Leaving no one behind, embrace the sun.

 

Sense of Self

 

"Do not give away your capacity to set the arc of your hope and heart."

Mitch Davidowitz

Get outside and walk towards the sun. Feel the multi-colored leaves crunch beneath your feet. Breathe in the fragrance of fall and feel your inner being glow. Ask your lovely self what you need right now in this moment and how you can obtain it. With longer vision, see what you are wanting to obtain.

You cannot help how you feel, and your emotions need to be recognized. The key is not to be overwhelmed which happens when you do not accept how you feel in the moment. It is healthy to acknowledge you are angry or disillusioned, but what action will you take to move beyond how you feel.

Be aware of the stories you are telling your vulnerable self. Ego has a way of clouding reality and you can find thoughts sliding farther astray. Remind yourself of who you are and how you want to live, as then strength begins to return. In this moment, experience the true sense of yourself and let it beam.

Adjustment Required

"To exist is to change, to change is to mature,

to mature is to go on creating oneself endlessly."

Henri Bergson

There are endless writings about change being an opportunity for growth. This is true especially when the change is unexpected and viewed as unacceptable. We may know change is uncontrollable, but it may take us awhile to remember our reaction is the most important factor.

As soon as we determine our best way forward, our energy helps us to adapt. With clarity, we begin to adjust our perceptions and recalibrate our journey to recovery. Whether we are faced with death, bankruptcy, or personal collapse, moving forward depends upon our willingness to embrace change with positive reframe.

Within our limitations, we can lavishly create new scenarios. What may seem dim in the moment can become an enhanced goal moving us forward once again. Each time we become a newer version of our self, our light grows stronger. And this is exactly what our darkness needs, healing light.

Dense Fog

"Clarity comes from knowing what you want and

from moving in the direction of it."

Sue Krebs

Heavy fog has settled down upon some of us. We feel a dense weight and it is difficult to see. We may find ourselves aimlessly wandering around not being able to see either in front or behind. Our brains may be so clogged that we cannot even lift our heads to look up to the sky for floating inspiration.

Regardless of our motivation, without clarity, we will lose our way. We will endlessly wander about, postponing any sense of calm. It is only when we can rekindle our inner power that we can begin to move through the fog. In recapturing our values and dedication to what we believe, once again we become a force.

We must remember that in spite of the fog, the sun is high above continuing to shine. In holding our image of light, clarity grows stronger. In remembering that we are in this life time to play a peaceful role, we can begin again moving forward. Choose how to live in each moment of the day as with clarity, peace is restored.

Light At The End Of The Tunnel

"Learn from yesterday, live for today, and hope for tomorrow."

Albert Einstein 

Pressure accumulated as we geared up for election day. Chaos stirred any sense of rest, bombarding voters with hateful speech and often times flat out lies. Momentum forced friends to face each other, controlling judgment and criticism. Some family members voted in secret, hiding preferences from peers and mates.

The race is over, but the fallout leaves many in unrest. It seems incredibly impossible that in our own country, fellow humans fear what will now happen. We can move out of this darkness with hope in our hearts, holding ourselves accountable and doing our part. Each individual must use his or her voice and take positive action towards peace.

As we seek passage through this tunnel of time, our eyes need to be kept focused upon humankind. It is imperative to see kinship in the faces of others, not threats. Joining together in spite of differences, we can secure a safer tomorrow. No longer think about winning or losing, but rather moving forward together, best that we can.

Connection As An Exchange

"Communication is merely an exchange of information, but

connection is an exchange of our humanity."

Sean Stephenson

We may have a huge vocabulary, but words are just words unless spoken from the heart. We might speak numerous languages, but nothing touches the soul like an authentic love language. It is a misunderstanding to think if we raise our voice, we will increase communication. In fact, connection is strengthened by gently speaking soul to soul.

We have our own opinions to be shared calmly, while understanding that listeners may or may not agree. Our words are meant to be a reflection of the self and not an ultimatum to others. We exchange ideas with open minds willing to learn or simply disagree without punishment or judgment.

We can think of ourselves as trees thriving on this earth. Our leaves and shapes may be different, but our branches seek the light. Side by side, we can generate an atmosphere without judgment or penalty for who we choose to be. We can offer shade and shelter creating a forrest of kind humanity. 

When Women Stand Up!

"Each time a woman stands up for herself, without

knowing it possibly, without claiming it, she

stands up for all women."

Maya Angelou

When you speak your truth, you are teaching others how to speak theirs. And as we feel empowered by the use of our voice, we make a difference not only in our own lives, but in the lives of those who are present. When we speak out rather than being silent, other women hear us as well as the next generation rising around us.

When we align ourselves with inner guidance, experience and communication, momentum is gained. We become propelled forward. Using connections, we become educated through the diversity of others. Through the use of visualization, prayer, and communication with nature, our authenticity becomes more apparent filling us with confidence and drive.

As individual women, asserting our intelligence and life experience, balance begins to be restored. While we join with other women, integrity, diversity and empowerment escort us towards freedom, justice, and peace. When women help women, amazing things happen. Stand up and be heard. Use your voice and stand out! 

 

Power In The Feminine Voice

"Women will starve in silence until

new stories are created which confer

on them the power of naming themselves."

Sarah Gilbert/Susan Gubar

Think of how many times you held your lovely self back from voicing an opinion. Perhaps you checked yourself so no one would be offended or you wouldn't be scorned. There are times you are striving to be the perfect daughter, mate or friend, and therefore stifle your thoughts because what do you know, anyway?

The damage is not about trying to be perfect at all cost, but silencing our truth. There may be an underlying fear that what we think may be entirely wrong. When you are wanting to be loved, respected and valued, do you play things small? Why risk being ridiculed or simply wrong when silence can mask your fears?

Silence is not always a safe space as it can breed self-loathing and disconnection. Stifling our truths and aspirations can lead to physical, emotional and spiritual dysfunction. Speak up as you will learn through the experience. Share your story and encourage others to do the same. You will gather kindred spirits and be loved for who you truly are.

 

Creating Safe Space

"We can't be brave in the big world without at least one

small safe space to work through our fears and falls."

Brene Brown

The best present ever does not come in a special box, wrapped in fancy paper with a frilly bow. The most valuable gift is the safe space created between friends. It is an area where truths can be told, extreme emotions released, and no judgment exists. The event itself will not be brought up again, unless self initiated. 

In the safe space between friends, each person is embraced, valued, and supported. There is room to eliminate doubt, criticism and misconceptions. There may be a need to scream as loudly as we can or we may be held in stillness wrapped in compassion and tenderheartedness. Permission is lavished for the ability to stand tall, being just as we are. 

For each other, we become a light in the darkness, a whisper in the chaos, and an unbreakable connection. Masks can be discarded, and together walking forward confidence and hope are built for brighter days. One does not hide in a safe space, he or she rests and restores. The unbreakable bond is a treasure that no one can take awaqy.

Join With Friends

"A friend is someone who knows all about you

and still loves you."

Elbert Hubbard

A new month is opening before us and it will be laced with activities, gatherings, and holidays. We adjust to both time change, and climate change. It is imperative that we completely let go of any residue and strengthen our foundation. It is time to join with friends to be reminded of who we are and how we want to be.

Being with friends can hold us more accountable and reflect our best qualities. We are reminded of what is important and how to adjust our boundaries. Friends stabilize us and offer a safe space to bare our soul. They offer the opportunity to realistically realign our thinking as we review our upcoming changes.

Gathering with friends prior to the the forthcoming seasonal changes, we are able to praise our them and verbalize just how important their presence means to us. We can offer them reflections of their own best qualities and support them while they, too, move forward. Friendship is a two way connection needing updating, refurbishing and praise.