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 a limited perspectives as I am shifting and changing.

 

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 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. 

Unwise Choice

 "When a single light joins with another,

it grows in its strength."

Marilyn Eagen

The holidays offer social gatherings, creative community events, and people constantly bustling around us, so it is even more important to set aside time for the self. With our intent to meet the needs of others, it is imperative we must keep ourselves nurtured. This means eating properly, maintaining sleep patterns, and sculpting out quiet time in spite of what we are called to do.

Please recognize when emotional strength in particular begins to wane. Then listen to the inner voice before it starts screaming protests. Prioritize daily expectations and when the list is complete, do not add more, take time to rest. Rest can mean a leisurely cup of tea, a quick chapter in a book or hot epsom salt bath to restore and renew.

We can get so caught up in our holiday routines that we do not find time for those closest to us, as we know they will understand our absence. However, this is a very unwise choice. A quick meet and greet will recalibrate our energy levels.  We will feel seen and heard while exchanging love that can only be shared between sisters of the heart.