Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Cosmic Amplifier



"This year, instead of making a resolution to change 
yourself, make a resolution to love yourself."
Lori Deschene

Tonight is the Black New Moon offering positive and effective energy for transformation whether physical, emotional, and spiritual. With intention, we can use this powerful lunar energy to propel us forward towards abundance and success. Maintaining an awareness of signs and opportunities with follow up action escorts our intentions.

We have spent enough time agonizing over errors or missed synchronicity. Now it is imperative to love and accept personal magnitude. Our focus can intensify and moon energy can heighten awareness, courage, and purpose. Releasing judgment and embracing a new beginning, we  move forward with strong connection.

There are self-imposed barriers preventing us from a higher sense of being. Unearth these self-deprecating limitations. Address fears and maintain courage to step into new beginnings. Daily practice of holding our hearts open and believing in personal goodness, we will make a positive impression upon the life we choose to live.




 

Monday, December 30, 2024

Sacred Old Soul

 


"Wisdom comes with winters."
Oscar Wilde

Darkness fell, much too early for my liking. The cold wind was blowing gusts of light fluffy snow.  My gaze fell upon a discarded leaf lodged in a snow drift and I felt it's loneliness. And is this not typical winter ... a time to withdraw, slow down, and dislodge that which is stuck.The need to cover ourselves with comfort, perhaps, draws us inside by a warm fire.

Strong winds rattled the windows and I drew my blanket closer around me. Cradling a hot cup in my hands, my thoughts drifted like the falling snow. Disconnected words streamed through my head and to make sense of them, I made entries into my current favorite journal. The lined pieces of paper were crinkled with bits of wisdom dancing across the page.

I laughed thinking of the stacks of diaries I have filled, never intending them to make a difference to anyone but my lovely self. And isn't this like life? Pouring our heart and soul into existence whether it is seen by anyone else or not. I am responsible for my thoughts and how I choose to arrange them, nurturing my sacred old soul.





 



Sunday, December 29, 2024

New Sparks




"These are the changing times, these are the ending
cycles, and the are the times of great chaos."
Peggy Black

Throughout the year, we have been confronted by negative change. We have experienced loss and unfortunate endings, triggering fears which result in loss of footing. Although we do not have control over the events in life, we do have choice of response. It takes a strong resolution to separate the self from streaming negativity and engage in new sparks of imagination.

When we hold the self accountable for our own happiness, motivation, and follow-through, personal  power strengthens our abilities. Where we place our focus determines pathways. If we do not like where we are going, then change efforts. Discontinue investing in experiences that divides us from our heartfelt goals. If something isn't working, search for new resolution.

Just in this moment, gently listen to soft inner thoughts. Hold the sacred space of the mind open and feel the nudge of inspiration,  Be reminded of the need to nurture the self with patience, permission to be, and build excitement for what is yet to come. Jump into the positive flow of goodness and believe that all things are possible.





 

Saturday, December 28, 2024

Feed The Soul

 


"In the process of letting go, you will lose many things
from the past, but will find yourself."
Deepak Chopra

It is not singularly through death that we lose loved ones. They become lost in various stages of diseases never more recognizing who we are. Then there are those who wander away, either deliberately or aimlessly, never returning to our nest. There comes a time to let go, no matter how the loss occurs.

We waste energy faulting our lovely selves for not having done enough or saying too much or being distant for our own safety. We must face the loss of all control and redirect our awareness to just where we aim to go without particular loved ones. It is through the release while facing reality that sorrow can shift into healthier aspirations. 

No one will ever replace our loved one and honoring his or her presence is healthy. But then, we must move on, creating scenarios and relationships that will support who we are and who we want to become. There will be joy as we come to recognize our heart center and begin to thrive as we consciously feed our soul.

Friday, December 27, 2024

Between Breaths



"Between every breath, there is a silence."
Cathy Larson

We breathe automatically, taking breaths without even thinking about it. During critical times, we notice a shortness of breath or even holding our breath. Our breathing is so automatic, we forget about the silence between each inhale and exhale. Perhaps this is only recognized during meditation or prayer. 

When thinking of silence, there are those who cannot tolerate situations where all is quiet. They will go to extremes avoiding emotions and reality. Others are more mindful about silence and have a dedicated practice of being still. They are more intentional about being present based upon a schedule.

Becoming more aware of the tiny space between our breaths, we can create a healthier pace. Noticing the silence, the body can feel a slight reprieve, the mind can pause and our sense of spirit experiences connection. All of this unfolds in a split second, but when practiced it will become an immediate support to the body, mind, and soul.

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Overcome Silence



"Healing out loud because I nearly died in silence."
Threads 

The day after Christmas or Hanukkah can be bittersweet. All of the buildup approaching the holiday has crested and either we have been swept away by joy or left lack luster. What matters most is that we speak and seek our needs.  Acknowledging we have been quiet for too long inner determination stirs. 

The New Year approaches so we must design a new game plan.  Whether it is a physical or non-physical goal matters not. The same dedication can be used when providing ourselves with quality resources.  The key is remembering that we are worthy and need to give voice to what will begin to heal our body, mind and spirit.

As we continue to open doors, fresh air brings energy to what has grown still. When we give ourselves permission to articulate and explore, a new sense of living becomes activated. Break the silence and project a desire to rekindle a life that stimulates, teaches, and reveals a life we are longing to live. 




 

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

The Gift



"What is Christmas? It is the tenderness for the past,
courage for the present, hope for the future."
Agnes M. Pahro

Intentionally, I honor the birth of the Christ Child with reverence and prayer; but admittedly, my religious bond is with an adult Jesus who was ever present. On the other hand, my heart always yearned for Santa. It was never about the gifts, but the magic of the mysterious man who wanted to make children happy. 

And over time, I noticed the impact of both Jesus the Christ and Santa in individual ways.  Although not equivalent to each other, both images were of kind hearted men, embracing all children no matter their origin.  With open hearts, in their own special way, each one convinced me about acceptance and unconditional love.  

We can honor the spirit of both men and women as we move forward into a New Year. Christmas, therefore, can be an active time for healing. We can release old expectations, accept the present, and with courage, step into the future. With a new sense of wholeness, we can be a gift to each other. 

No matter your faith or preferred ritual,  I wish you a very Happy Holiday! 

Tuesday, December 24, 2024

State of Mind



"Christmas is not a date.
It is a state of mind."
Mary Ellen Chase
 
The individuals who gather around our table, help to create the holiday spirit. Comfort food soothes the belly, but it is the presence of others that embellishes the warmth of the home. It matters not if there are numerous guests or just a few. It is the quality of the exchanges that feeds the soul. Even offered silence can be a blessing to allow personal memories to flow.

The location of a holiday meal is far less important than our state of mind. Whether over eating or indulgent drinking is meant to numb feelings, we will not escape. Overcrowding may distract, but not fill our wounded spaces. We will experience both joy and sadness, but where we place our focus determines how we proceed.

We can give ourselves permission to be attentive or quiet. Others love to share stories and by simply being present, our state of mind can maintain the holiday spirit. The best gift of the season is permission to be comfortable with the self. Design what is needed to lift our spirits and let others benefit from it.

Monday, December 23, 2024

Spirit of Love


"Blessed is the season which engages the whole world
in a conspiracy of love."
Hamilton Write Mabie

With all of the glittering lights and golden shimmers, I am adjusting my vision to see everything through the eyes of Christmas Spirit. I am going to believe in the kindness of others and respect his and her traditions while I honor my own. I am prepared to carve out a very special place for myself.

My intention is to overlook, just for now, things that are not aligned and engage in healthy and nurturing scenarios. I want what is best for others, but not at the cost of my personal peace. Extending my light energy, others will be blanketed in honor and respect regardless of the holiday they celebrate.

It is impossible for me to shelter the homeless, feed the starving children and put an end to war. Bur I can love! Love will be sent to my family, neighbors, and those living everywhere. Prayers will be offered to those who are transitioning in any way, shape or form. I want to be the love Spirit has always meant me to be. 



Sunday, December 22, 2024

Recognized Symbol



"Christmas is like candy; it slowly melts in your mouth sweetening
every taste bud, making you wish it could last forever."
Richelle Goodrich

Over the years, holidays, tend to shift. Location is altered, attendance fluctuates, and gifts tend to be altered by both time and space. So many things change, but the candy cane remains a highly recognized symbol. It seems we are never too old to experience the taste of peppermint. 

During these times, some desperately try to recreate childhood joy while others are determined to overcome the drama still wedged in their hearts. When we gather with others, however, highlighted by Christmas Carols, laughter, and good cheer, the innocence of childhood wonder creeps into our hearts.

Let's tickle the toes of children, and listen to the tales of the past. Delight in the decorations and feast upon the food. But never, ever, ignore the pleas of the heart. When it is time to leave, do so. If you must cry, do not be ashamed. When time seems to stand still, find a candy cane to replenish sweetness in the soul.



Saturday, December 21, 2024

Winter Solstice Intentions

 


"Perhaps that was the worst of all. Not having
someone to remember things with."
Rosamunde Pilcher, Winter Solstice

Everything is still with seeds deeply sleeping while darkness seems to hover everywhere. The earth is dormant, allowing us to go within. It is a time for self exploration, dreams and aspirations. Evaluations allow us to pitch what no longer serves, making room and nurturing our inner fertile ground.

In this silence, we are intended to be alone. Our inner voice reaches out to redirect us into our hearts. It is a time for remembering, releasing, and restoring. We are called to be quiet and be still. Within this darkness, we reconnect with our true self, allowing our feelings to be expressed rather than buried deeply within our soul.

This is a sacred time for kindling our spirit and writing scripts reflecting new pathways for our journey. It is a time for preparing prior to the long days of sun returning. Feeling our power, we orchestrate new steps to be taken into the sun with our hearts wide open. Through candles, rituals, song and dance, our hibernation begins.

Friday, December 20, 2024

Just Curious ...



"Love the giver more than the gift."
Brigham Young

Just curious, when you span back across the years of holiday celebrations, do you remember the gifts you received or what food you were served? Hopefully, your memories are warmly wrapped in loving thoughts of the people sharing space. Perhaps you can still hear the laughter from stories stirring the heart.

Just curious, do you remember what you wore to be festive? Was it a brilliantly expensive newly purchased outfit or sweat pants with Christmas socks? Are you nudged into remembering who was not present and whether or not it made you happy or sad? Elements of emotion are like a kaleidoscope twisted and turned.

Just curious, are you ready to fast forward into the New Year? Have you already had enough or do the deepest part of the self crave more? Perhaps you long for miracles to make you feel whole again, releasing the trials and tribulations of this past year. Be gentle with your lovely self, and notice how you are a gift to others. 



 

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Offer Blessings



"Christmas is not as much about opening our presents
as opening our hearts."
Janice Maeditere

During the Christmas Season, it seems as though the hearts and minds of others are widely open. People seem a little kinder to each other and tend to offer the benefit of a doubt. How life would be different if we offered blessings to others ... both known and unknown ... all year long, and not just during the holidays.

We may participate more in groups distributing assistance to those less fortunate. Maybe we listen less to the news and more to Christmas music. Grown children may live far away, so we may find joy in baking cookies or crafting with children in our communities. Our actions, whether seen or unseen, generate a sense of goodwill.

There is delight in becoming a Secret Santa. Let us be a part of the forward movement once called  'paying it forward'. Tip the waitress exceedingly higher than normal;  pay for the coffee or food of someone else; gather hats, mittens, and scarves for shelters; and pray whole heartedly for all peoples suffering everywhere.



Wednesday, December 18, 2024

Creating Bouquets




"Flowers don't worry about how they're going to bloom. They
just open up and turn toward the light and that makes them beautiful."
Jim Carrey

Just like a flower, we have no idea when we are going to bloom. In the beginning, we may feel our feet deeply rooted. Then strong winds might push us down or scorching beams of sun might wilt us. Somehow, we manage to try again, stretching to grow towards our goals. So much relies upon trust and faith.

No matter 'where' we find ourselves today, try to begin again. Maybe do a little weeding of fear or adjusting too high of an expectation. Perhaps we haven't reached enough towards hope and need to begin again with a new sense of renewal. Maybe we need to readjust our giving and lavishly apply it within ourselves.

All things take time to unfold and mysteriously growth spurts occur. We may begin to wonder just how much influence we have over our chosen paths. Today, pause and be grateful for things received, and opportunities arriving. Celebrate the numerous times our personal petals opened creating bouquets generously shared with others.



Tuesday, December 17, 2024

Holding Space


"When we are looking for compassion, we need someone who is deeply rooted,
 is able to bend, and most of all, embraces us for our strengths and struggles."
Brene Brown 

Holding space for someone means that we allow that person to simply be present in whatever challenge they find themselves. We embrace the other without judgment or criticism. There is no need for us to have a perfect answer or offerings of wisdom. It is the atmosphere of safety that we provide and  a matter of opening our hearts with unconditional support. 

With pure acceptance, we offer an arena for spewing all thoughts, emotions, and fears. We allow the person to simply release all that is challenging them without placating or minimizing his or her journey. We simply observe as they grieve, unleash and struggle to find an element of reconciliation. As a calm witness, we do not attempt to evaluate, fix, or change the other person.

Being present for others develops the skill of being still. This ability can be used to create  harmony in our own lives. We can hold a space of safety to release our own pain and sorrow, allowing clarity to surface. Allowing the self to bend and reshape, we move through pain and sorrow in order to recall our own essence of loving kindness. 




Monday, December 16, 2024

Bigger Picture


"The journey into self-love and self-acceptance
must begin with self-examination."
Iyanla Vanzant

Sitting before the tree, I notice that I am staring at one delicate glass bulb. It stirs memories within me and I feel my emotions sliding back into a certain time and place. I am no longer viewing the tree with precious decorations, as my vision has settled just on one. Reluctantly, I extend my awareness to recapture the beauty of the whole.

And is this not just like life? Something unexpectedly pops up and we zero in forgetting all else around us. Negativity, chaos and a sense of victimization permeates even though we have the choice to keep things balanced in perspective. It is not so much what is happening, but our ability to maintain broader vision.

It is easy to fall into automatic pilot, choosing what we know rather than what might be an improved new route. When we utilize the privilege of pause, clarity arises from the larger picture. Learning to understand our complicated selves, rather than singular focus, we are able to embrace the fullness of our existence. 

Sunday, December 15, 2024

Visualizations



"Promise me you will always remember: You're braver than 
you believe, and stronger than you seem and 
smarter than you think."
A.A. Milne

Visualization is a technique that is free, easy to learn, and beneficial for the body, mind, and spirit. It is not based in a particular faith and can be self-taught in our own private space. It is a matter of holding the self present, closing the eyes, and creating images. Envisioning positive scenarios releases preconceived negative expectations.

We can choose an image of a person, place or thing. By adding senses like smell, taste, touch, hearing or sight, a present moment can become enhanced. Holding images of what we desire sends messages to our subconscious mind. Consistently visualizing our goals trains us be more focused and productive.

We have the power to transform ourselves by deliberately holding images in our mind. We have the strength and sensitivity to break out of roles that no longer reflect who we are and gain increased insights. Sit quietly, and bring heightened images to mind. We can use our intuition, compassion and alignment to create healthy transitions.







 

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Participating With Silence



"I think writers, by nature, are more observers
instead of participators."
Ian Hunter 

'Tis the season for parties whether highly jeweled or casually dressed. There is great joy when we indulge in holiday delicacies while sitting at a beautifully arranged table or roasting marshmallows around the open fire. Whether entertained by work, family, or friends, we may feel ourselves turning inward.

We need people in our lives whether kindred spirits or diverse souls. They help us discover our sensitivities and challenge our perceptions. If we choose to actively listen without judgment, we hold space for others to grow as well. Truly, it is not about being right or wrong, but the gift of transitioning thoughts.

Participating in silence, additional information is often shared, altering our viewpoints with deeper compassion. It is not about being right or wrong, but awakening to insights regarding the challenges of all earth travelers.  The importance is not necessarily the obstacle itself, but learning diverse ways as to how others negotiate. 



Friday, December 13, 2024

Burst My Bubble


"Keep away from people who try to belittle your ambitions.
Small people always do that, but the really great make
you feel that you, too, can become great."
Mark Twain

Celebrating the holiday season, I was dressed in festive clothing. My heart was open and filled with brilliant light. In the midst of familiar people, I was openly vulnerable with all whom I encountered. Then I was blind sighted.  Within a deliberate one-sided conversation, there was an attempt to strip me of any sense of self-worth and sacred space.

I was attacked by a tongue lashing which highlighted my age, position in life, and lack of contribution to society, I found myself frozen in place. I simply stood there in shock and disbelief. My pulsing red hot anger momentarily triggered age old feelings of shame and disgrace. The words washed over me from a voice cooing vilifications. 

There was a time I could whittle anyone down with cutting words, slashing them with my tongue; but, that is not who I am today. Standing in place, I silently begged for light to cover me, reflecting all negativity back from where it had come. Go ahead and burst my bubble, but I will disallow anyone to take away my vision of peace on earth!

Thursday, December 12, 2024

Staying Alive


"Whatever happens, stay alive.
Don't die before you are dead."
Virginia Woolf

We can either let life happen to us or we can take charge and create better scenarios. It is easy to detect our discontent, but difficult to resolve if we remain stuck in our thoughts.When we hold our lovely selves accountable, options can be chosen. Perhaps none of them are ideal, but it is the movement forward that counts.

Feelings of stagnation keep us paralyzed in disappointment and fear. When we consider new choices to best meet our own needs, a shift occurs. (Questions to be asked: what do I want; what do I need; and what steps can begin my journey?) Stop thinking of all the reasons why we cannot change and gather plausible alternatives.

Cut out pictures from magazines and make a collage as a visual reminder of benefits from change. The longer corrective images are held in the mind, the greater the chance of attracting vibrant opportunities. There is choice to either die a slow death of boredom, depression, and inactivity or rebirth and renew a life aligned with our dreams come true.

Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Sinking Into The Mind

 


"Advice is like snow. The softer it falls, the longer it
dwells upon and the deeper it sinks into the mind."
Samuel Taylor Coleridge

It is in the shared word that wisdom can be grasped. New ideas can freshly be considered when objectively stated not dependent upon personal feelings or opinions. A simple snippett of encouragement becomes a catalyst for personal growth which in return impacts those around us, hoping for change.

Show me peace and understanding through supportive listening  and gentle actions. Share inspiration for changing exclusive rights to fairness for all. Do not set out to physically change stubborn structures. Begin with investing time with a chosen community action. Seek and attract others with similar aspirations.

Divine sends wisdom consistently, if we would just listen. A wisp of vision floats in thoughts, just waiting for expansion and application. With awareness, inspiration can wildly stretch into beauty and precision. Thus comes passion with the willingness to muster courage to make an affirmative difference. 





Tuesday, December 10, 2024

Dried Stalks In Desolate Fields



"I shut my eyes in order to see."
Paul Gauguin

When it becomes so cold, loneliness can easily wrap around us. We may turn to nature only to find random dried stalks in desolate fields. The wind abrasively ravishes the face and shoulders hunch up reaching our ears. The physicality of shutting down sends messages to the thinking processes as well.

Withdrawing certainly is not the answer. There is no value in hiding in a dark corner waiting for light to come in. There is the need of engaging the body, mind, and spirit. There are numerous ways of doing this such as: sketching and painting, singing and dancing, stillness and meditation or retreating into a journal.

Throughout the day, gently hold the eyelids still extending the purposeful blink. In this gentle movement, wisps of peace send messages to our nervous system. In this brief pause of darkness, vibrant dream like images surface to nurture the lonely soul. It is connection that we seek and there is no one better than the self.





 

Monday, December 9, 2024

Weirdos


"I like weird people, the black sheep, the odd ducks, the ones 
who don't quite fit in the places everyone else seems to belong."
The Fallen Poet

Let the mind relax and wander back into the past, allowing people who impacted you surface. Were these influencers common and ordinary or did he or she seem uniquely present? Did the exchange sting the heart or calm the soul? For what reason do they stand out in memory, overshadowing others?

The energy transmitted by a person  can be more alluring than what they wear or with whom  they are grouped. It might not even be specific words themselves, but the underlying content grasping attention. It is interesting to pinpoint just what it was that kept them significantly captured in memory.

There are individualists who don't care about what they wear as they are comfortable in their own skin. Free spirits don't choose their words carefully as wisdom is flowing from within. Eccentrics are not trying to win friends, as the desire is to simply be present. Intersting that these weirdos remain present in memory throughout time.

Sunday, December 8, 2024

Smorgasbord


"Life is like a giant smorgasbord of more delicious alternatives that you can ever
hope to taste. So you have to reject somethings you want in order to get
other things you want more."
Ray Dalio

'Tis the season to find ourselves sitting in the midst of unknown people or sandwiched in small rooms where loud voices congregate. Our attention strays from conversation and our eyes are attracted to someone who is standing out for no apparent reason. Is it a certain presence that attracts us or bits of unusual conversation? 

Gatherings are like a smorgasbord with a colorful assortment. We can pick and choose what we want to ingest and acknowledge what does not digest very well at all.  We are more likely to expand ourselves if we sample in small portions, going back for more even when the line thins. When we sample, there is an opportunity to grow.

Now is a perfect time to visit small shops to wander as entrepreneurs tend to be unique individuals. Become aware of small groups popping up for connection. Perhaps we need a little spice in our lives whether it is sprinkled on our palate or entertained by our brain. Dare to be different in thought, word, and deed. 

 

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Where The Path May Lead



"Do not go where the path may lead,
go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."
Ralph Waldo Emerson

Be brave my friend, bundle up and step off the beaten path. Become a trail blazer, noticing all that surrounds you and the significance it offers. As you walk, release all of the 'should's' lingering in your head. Without any sense of restraint, open your heart and eliminate the parts of life that have been chaotically existing, not gently thriving.

Slightly shake your head to dismantle all that no longer needs to be sitting upon a throne. Conjure up what brings you joy. Allow your mind's eye to navigate towards people, places, or things that will support desires. When is the last time you wandered off the path to discover life's hidden secrets?

Forging a new journey allows for new evaluations of the life you are living. Stepping into the unknown rekindles the fire within while your actions stimulate the interest of others. Breaking away from stagnant expectations, you begin to feel alive once again. Leaving conformity behind enables peace of the spirit to reign. 

 

Friday, December 6, 2024

Compact or Curious


Know all the theories, master all the techniques,
but as you touch a human soul, be just another human soul."
Carl Jung

If we label ourselves in a particular way, there is an automatic division. If we are single minded, projecting ourselves as standing under only one umbrella, there is a separation. If we sincerely want to experience life as an authentic human being, there must be an opening where one can come and go.

The statement that there is not one snowflake that is identical, increases belief that we are all unique with intent and purpose. So why would we spend years molding ourselves into others when we could be investing in our very own persona? Holding ourselves open, we study all aspects, but build upon that which applies.

We have human tendencies, but we are unique individuals. The opportunity to learn from each other is present, so all the more reason to let our individual characteristics shine. Who do we seek out ... people who are tightly compact or those who radiate with curiosity about themselves and all others? 

 

Thursday, December 5, 2024

Light In The Corridor

 


"Confront the dark parts of yourself, and work to banish
them with illumination and forgiveness."
August Wilson

Once again in darkness, I held the flashlight in my hand to wander down the corridor. I was not frightened, but curious as to what was lurking yet again in the creases of my mind. What exactly was I projecting in order to avoid the reality of how things truly were. Unfotunately, the more steps I took, the hallway simply continued to unfold into darkness.

Rather than prolonging this search, I decided upon an alternate approach. I grabbed my pen and journal, lighted a candle, and slipped into meditation. I allowed my self to sit and be patient, as I knew all would unfold. In repeated stillness, images began to surface like startled birds leaving a nest. 

Snow was falling and darkness hovered as I reminded myself of the importance of aligning the body, mind and soul. Without healing all parts of the self, I would never enjoy the comfort of truly being me. I welcomed Divine sacred light to gently flow through me, chasing my shadows far away.  

Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Ultimate Philosopher


"Cats are the ultimate philosophers, teaching us the art 
of living in the present moment."
Karen Brademeyer

Escaping from the maddening crowd, I wandered downstairs. I needed just a pause from the conversations, both great and small. I sat down in an easy chair, reflecting upon how much energy it takes to be both the inner self and the outward persona while engaging with random people gathered for a holiday.

I felt something jump into my lap, and there sat a cat. It basically stared me down with eyes so deeply astute that I had the sense it knew more about me than I did. Silently, I engaged with this purring spirit, admitting my challenge of being authentic and yet respectful to those visiting around me. 

As the cat gently purred, I reflected upon all of the versions of myself I had been trying to project. I realized that it truly didn't matter who I was, as the reflection others needed from me was for his or her comfort. I knew it was okay for others to have a misperception. I won't be understood by others with limited perspectives as I am shifting and changing.





 

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Gentle Lion Roars




"I am impelled, not to squeak like a grateful and apologetic mouse,
but to roar like a lion out of pride in my profession."
John Steinbeck

If we grew up as a free thinker, there is a learned format of speaking out. At an early age, it is not about winning or judging as much as it is about hearing the self think out loud. When we are focused on expanding our thoughts, there is no room for wanting to be superior to anyone else. The process is for learning to understand that which seemed so confusing.

This can carry over into our profession which assists others in understanding our motivation. When we set high, our goal includes fair trade and equal liberation. We experience freedom in speaking out rather than the oppression of being silent. The equations seem to be based in the observation of behaviors that conflicted with rhetoric.

When hyper vigilante with listening skills, it is easy to notice inconsistencies in the posturing of others. Truth tellers tend to be consistent, whereas, those placating us stumble endlessly over ill fitting lies. Roaring like a lion often comes with a price, but self respect is of the highest value. Admit when there has been an error, but seeking truth like a gentle lion often leads us to roar!



 

Monday, December 2, 2024

Monday Morning Choices



"You don't have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great!."
Zig Ziglar

Sunday is the most stressful day of the week, as we realize time has run out. What we anticipated doing either was totally overshadowed or fallen short of expectation. Sunday night we face a new week filled with work related routines and pre-organized structures. It is challenging to gather energy once again to face the trials and tribulations presenting before us.

When we remember that we do have choice, even though it may be minimal, we need to hold ourselves accountable..Everything on our plate was either selected by us or we agreed to it. This is where alignment comes in as balance is necessary. The ability to use our voice is also an ingredient in this mix. Our  boundaries are set for a reason.

Rather than viewing our decision to decline as a negative response, think of it as offering someone else the opportunity to begin. When we excuse ourselves from an obligation, a new space is created. When we overcome the temptation to immediately fill it up, our balance can be restored. Pause and explore how a new choice can escort us towards a great opportunity.