Required Courage

"It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are."

e.e. cummings

It is difficult to define our lovely selves when we honestly don't know who we are. When we are able to dismantle what others have projected upon us, true identity begins to unfold. It is when we become aware of our desires that the journey begins to take on greater meaning. Our energies escort us more deliberately forward.

Who we become can trigger great loneliness if it is not in alignment with our inner desires. If we have succeeded for the sake of others or public recognition, a hollow feeling erodes the essence of success. As we continue to look outside of ourselves, we will be falsely led astray.

It takes great courage to decline what does not feed your soul. You must be able to identify with your inner needs to make appropriate choices. What do you want and how can it be obtained? When these answers begin to take form and resonate, have the courage to step forward and begin.

Reoccurrence of Passion

"The real lover is the man who can thrill you

by kissing your forehead or smiling

into your eyes."

Marilyn Monroe 

As we are growing  up, we think that love is about fast cars taking us on fast dates to fast food restaurants. After various relationships in higher education, we might shift into the more adult lane leading to a hot career and hot sex. Love then gets shuffled in the detailed plans for marriage, followed by love being siphoned off by adorable babies. 

As we age, we develop love for flowers, books, and rescued pets. Divorce or death may rob us of our mate or marital relations simply grow stale. We tell ourselves we are just too old for passion and try to make do with voyages into distractions. But in our heart, there is a small piece of love waiting to be kindled in an undefined fire.

When we finally grow our lovely selves with deep appreciation for our inner core, we cease to desperately chase false leads. Opening our newly defined brilliance, we begin to attract souls who will admire this inner glow. A person will offer a smile or the touch of the hand and an inner door opens and we passionately fall into the depths of love. 

 

Oh, There You Are!

"Sometimes when you lose your way,

you find yourself."

Mandy Hale

We are not meant to stay stationary in one specific space ... mentally, physically, or spiritually. Even when we are deeply rooted, life has a way of projecting us, unexpectedly,  forward into the unknown. In spite of floundering in newly found places, it is where we must be to learn, adapt and create anew.

When we accept our displacement, we begin to see the beauty and possibilities surfacing. No matter where we find ourselves, lessons are everywhere like leaves dangling from a tree. We are not always able to pick and choose what we want, so imagination begins to generate new ways to display our skills and authentic visions. 

As we learn to follow the new path stretching before us, our life can become enriched. Like walking through the forest and becoming aware of new fragrances, birds singing, brooks trickling, and gentle breezes stirring our souls. It is within this stillness that one begins to discover the 'self' all over again.

Following the Storm

"No matter how dysfunctional your background, how broke or

broken you are, where you are today, or what anyone else says,

YOU MATTER, and your life matters!"

Germany Kent

When dark clouds are hanging above your head, be patient until you can see the sun peeking through. Just because we cannot actually see the sun, does not mean that it is not there. The same is true about our visions. Although we don't have the money or the space or the knowledge of how to proceed, this does not mean we must stop.

Often times, when we have been pushed beyond what we believe to be our breaking point, things begin to happen. We randomly cross paths with a person who can advance our progress or we find a random space that meets our needs. While we endure harsh winds, remember that they are blowing dark clouds away.

We are like the sun in that we may sink down beyond our expectations, but suddenly find our lovely selves rising again. We must be patient for the parting of the clouds, and then rekindled when the sun begins to shine once again. The important ingredient is persistence. Do not lose faith nor relinquish the dream as brilliance follows the storm.

Looking Out The Window

"Looking out the window, I see you looking in.

You are the sunshine that fills my soul."

Giorge Leedy 

It is challenging to hold the window of the soul open. We may be filled with optimism and drive for discovery, but as we gaze out the window, it may appear that the world is not eagerly awaiting our newly found drive. Perhaps, when we throw the window open, gusts of overwhelming wind just might enter, knocking us flat. We must manage to get up again.

When we are brave enough to glance out into the unknown, we are allowing the Universe time to collect people and places to assist in our manifestation. Not worrying about self-worth, all of our energies can focus on attracting our needed elements. Paying attention is key while we gaze looking for new reality.

With the window open, we ponder, project and patiently await for our parts to come together. We must never settle for this joy as we need to keep moving forward, producing with our collected. It is imperative that we follow through with the blessings we receive to be shared with all of humanity.

Expansion

"I am expanding into my highest potential and becoming

all I am destined to be."

Deepak Chopra

It is said that we have been preparing for quantum leaps and expansiveness throughout our life time. We may hear a calling now and find ourselves awakening to a higher level of self-love, and self-worth. We are surpassing our heart's desire by recognizing our soul's desire to take form.  We are ready to embrace the magic and miracles manifesting around us.

When we step aside, exiting personal deprecation, our vibrations are lifted and our desire for harmony strengthens. Allowing our sense of passion, we experience surprises, delight, and excitement. Entering true creation we become aware of grace, miracles, and the magic that can only thrive with our connection to the Divine. 

At this point in our journey, we begin to accept and understand our personal power, surrounding love, and limitless achievements. There is recognition that throughout your journey there has been expansion and evolvement. Everything we wish ourselves to be for the higher good, we discover we already are. 

Physical Body Housing Spiritual Soul

"The soul is the principle of life, and the body is the instrument 

through which the soul experiences the world.

Bookey

The body and the soul are closely connected and yet two differing components. The body is the instrument through which soul can experience the physical. The body is the vehicle in which the soul can experience sensitivity, emotions, and navigate external environment. The soul is the driving force behind life's experience.

The soul is our essence and our truth. It is how we are connected with the Divine. It has a greater picture of our Divine plan and eclectic wisdom to guide us. We have the choice to listen and follow, while discovering an internal sanctuary. It is where we are accepted unconditionally received.

As we learn to be still within the soul as our sanctuary, we develop an awareness of the ability to realize we are worthy and deserving of gifts and blessings. Utilizing this Divine connection, we can begin to avoid and disconnect from physical episodes that are no longer needed. In our sanctuary, we can hold pure intention and connect with light. 

Darkness Between Parts

"I would have loved to know how it felt, just once, to have

something fall apart and see options instead of endings."

Sarah Dessen

Holidays, such as Mother's Day, can cause cracks in our security. The newly created spaces between our parts can be filled with darkness. No matter how healed one is, wounds can still cause pain. As we begin to experience the shift into discord, fear of what will be forthcoming causes additional separation.

Be honest about unsettling feelings. Either express them out loud or silently journal. Let emotions surface completely rather than choosing to suppress them, as they won't just go away. Stand back and survey what might be triggering unhealthy reactions. Where are they coming from and what action can you take to dissolve them?

Try to remember all of the hills and valleys successfully mastered against all odds. Count strengths cultivated throughout the years. View available options and begin to create a plan to set them in motion. Coin a mantra such as, "I can and I will!" Continue to take steps forward out of darkness until you are running and prepared to fly!

 

Hands Healing Generations

"When words fail, the touch of a hand can convey

more than a thousand sentences."

My Grandmother's Hands

On Mother's Day, some will be thinking of their grandmothers or mothers while others think of their children. And then there are those who recall the gentle touch of a mentor or holding hands with best friends. Hands are filled with love waiting to heal those needing love. Every gesture made by the hands can become a language of its own.

In the palms of our hands energy capable of healing resides. The wrinkles on our hand reflects years of extended kindness. When we shake hands integrity and character can be revealed. The power in our hands create the world around us. Our hands can be a life line to those in absolute distress.

On this Mother's Day, what a gift it would be to stack grandmother hands upon the mothers, and daughters hands upon the mothers with granddaughters hands wiggled in between the stack. How wonderful if this could break barriers, sort out boundaries and engage love into present day living, healing generations.

Empowered Daughter

"Raising a strong daughter means teaching her to embrace her uniqueness,

to love herself fiercely, and to walk her own path with confidence. It's

about empowering her to be the best version of herself."

Kemi Sogunle

After three boys, my daughter was born on Mother's Day and what a gift she has been. I did not have a template of how to raise her like I did for the boys, but I learned along the way. I often think that we learned together as she taught me more than any relative ever did. The experience of total acceptance escorted both of us through numerous periods of discord.

Raising my daughter was loving freely while building trust and providing nurturing time. We held each other accountable and never experienced exclusion.  For years on end our favorite time together was quietly reading books. A silent bonding was laced between us. Then of course there were bouts of instant belly laughing over mundane spontaneous things.

The best gift I offered to her was the ability to believe in herself. I listened and encouraged allowing her to find her way. She explored, breaking generational boundaries and did our family ancestry proud. She teaches, loves hard, counsels others with integrity and extends herself as an exceptionally loving mom. I admire who she has purposely become.

 

The Eyes Have It

"The face is the mirror of the mind, and eyes without

speaking confess the secrets of the heart."

St. Jerome 

Throughout my life, I have observed others. I watch the way they walk, talk, and interact. Being highly sensitive to energy, my understanding of others increases. Primarily, it is the eyes that give the hidden emotions away. There may be an enormous smile on the face, but the eyes just might tell a different story.

Body language such as tightened fists, crossed arms, and leaning in or out during conversation are dead give aways. Facial expression is even greater with tight smiles or pained expressions. But the eyes, oh my. They speak volumes with unspoken words coming from the depth of the soul. Peek through them if you will.

The eyes, it is said, are portals to the soul. Information held within can come gently flowing out or be reflected as steel cold. The eyes are incapable of masquerading raw feelings and even when hooded, do not lie. The eyes can either stop you in your tracks or hold you in a warm embrace. Pay attention, and see what you can see.  

Keep It Simple

"If you will stay close to nature, to its simplicity, to the small

things hardly noticeable, those things can unexpectedly

become the great and immeasurable."

Rainer Maria Rilke

Ask any mother about the first dandelion her child chose for her and just watch her beam. The memories of joy come rushing back and the heart grows full. Ask any father to recall the first time he heard his child say 'dada' and observe how his face changes from stern to pride. Simplicity at its best.

The gift of friendship can be quite simple as well. It doesn't matter in the long run if it is wrapped in satin or vibrant tie-dyed muslin, as it is the simple bond itself that makes the difference. In time, we may no longer see our best friend's scar across the brow or the limp in their step because we simply embrace their essence.

Many things in life are complicated. The excess baggage weighs lofty ideas down. We get lost in the planning, the preparation, and the external wrappings. Too often, we miss the original point entirely. Minimize drama and enjoy the simplicity of just being. Watch experiences shift when we choose the mantra, 'Keep it simple!"

Energy of Love ...

"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly;

what is essential is invisible to the eye."

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Living from the ego is a great deal different from living from the heart. The ego finds fault, compares and criticizes; whereas the heart opens to the beauty seen and unseen. Love, like a liquid covering everything it touches, increases positive vision and leaves no trace. It can be extended through touch, vision, or silent application.

When we fear and resist, we waste our strength and end up falling emotionally and sometimes physically. If we attempt to control that which is not ours, we will experience frustration and defeat. If we look from our heart with love, the picture may not shift, but humble acceptance makes no waves. 

The more we open our hearts to love, the more love we have to share with others. It is not denying reality, but the love extended can heal wounds ... our own and others. The ego has the ability to taint every thing, person, or situation while the heart accepts and reacts with love. Let the energy of love rise within, and greet the world with heartfelt love.

Wait, That's Not Me!

 

"This life of mine does not bear resemblance to me."

Belle Townsend

Life is filled with mishaps and disappointments; however, if we choose to place our thoughts on possibilities while nurturing our soul, we will stay the course. Allowing our ego to drive our dreams, accomplishments, and relationships, we will fall dreadfully short of the mark. The sense of disconnect will grow increasingly stronger.

Presenting as we imagine others want to see us, fills us with a hollowness that erodes our distinctive shine. Hiding behind masks deepens the divide and we fall endlessly into a grieving pit. Eventually desperation overwhelms us, forcing our thoughts to go where they were always meant to be ... Divine connection.

When we stop projecting our baseless fears, and ask for help, life begins to change. Orchestrate support that resonates such as: meditation, nature walks, therapy, or artistic endeavors. Request time with trusted friends and if you do not have any, begin an exploration into creating a healthier environment where the heart can soar.   

 

Raindrops

"Rain has healing power ... it can wash away 

your worries ... and cleanse your soul."

Bobi Dutta

Rain was streaming down from the clouds and somehow, I was drawn outside. It was quite warm for so early in the day and without thinking, stepped off the patio and into the rain. The falling drops drenched my hair and I felt the wetness creeping down my skin. Then I felt an equal cleansing running inside of me.

I began to imagine hearing the flowers, bushes, and grass in the yard giving praise for the nurturing rain. Like a stimulant, the water encourages things to stretch and grow. I felt the excitement of anticipation for what was yet to come. There would be brighter colors, deliberate fragrances, and offered housing to small insects and birds. 

And what of my life? Could I wash off negativity, rinse my eyes for crisp clarity, and reimagine more creative ways for expression? Would I be able to shrug off the inner critic and allow my spirit to flow? It feels as though it is time to branch out and decorate routines with both ebb and flow. This gentle movement of rain has cleansed my soul.

Exhausted Survivors

"Children don't get traumatized because they are hurt.

They get traumatized because they are alone with he hurt."

Gabor Mate

Damaged from childhood trauma, a person closely monitors people around them, and their surroundings. Trust may not come easily and fear is laced in and out of situations. They may listen more closely to what is happening and often times hope they are invisible. All of this in spite of intellectually knowing these habits are no longer necessary.

Survivors tend to take things more personally. Words spoken are usually taken to heart and if there is discord, they may sense they are the cause. They may cling to privacy and be unable to embrace a larger picture of the world. The habit of hiding both emotionally and physically prevents thriving relationships.

Let us keep in mind that we are all travelers in this time and space. Respect those who are in survivor mode by being available to listen when they are open to sharing or to simply be present when asked. This sense of being alone in this world can be debilitating and exhausting ot the soul.

Bleeding Hearts or Old Souls?

"You are the girl that has always seen relationships differently ~

as promises, rather than satisfying and temporary. You've never

been afraid to hand people your heart and happiness."

Marissa Donnelly

Bleedings Hearts are not only a beautiful flower. but also a tender hearted human. At times, they have been categorized as having too much drama, too sensitive and over the top. This would be equal to saying a conservative person was cold-hearted or unsympathetic. Extremes can be found in every thing.

Bleeding hearts never hesitate to give what they have without expecting a favor in return. They are open and inviting while holding a safe space without criticism or judgment. They feel the pain of others as they listen deeply to what is being said, and to what is not being said. It is a given that all things shared are confidential.

There is speculation that bleeding hearts are really old souls trying to adapt to a new culture. Perhaps they recognize the soul existing in all peoples and yearn to be respectful and loving. Following individual pathways offer both troubling and enhanced situations, creating uniqueness in these amazing souls. Bleeding hearts cultivate beauty in our world.

 

Gateway to Storytelling

"A campfire is a gateway to storytelling and sharing memories."

Author Unknown

Spring is here and fire pits will be aglow. Friends gather and stories are told. Conversations can assist in defining intentions. Articulating fears can assist us in moving forward. Compassion from others helps our healing. Communication is an important element for defining who we are and who we yearn to be. 

Throughout the years, we have been sharing our stories with others. Often times, hearing the self express personal tales, new understanding surfaces. Putting our dreams into words not only inspires ourselves, but frequently impacts those who happen to be listening. Quality of inner dialogue is also reflective of criticism and judgment.

Throughout time, stories have been an impetus for shaping history. Whether war or relationships, politics or policies, reporting has been embedded in our memories. Stories passed down through the generations can teach integrity and compassion. When we choose to articulate, we can help create a better world. 

 

Defining Who You Are

"My sincerity is my credentials."

Malcom X

Libraries at one time had card catalogues as pictured above. One did a search for authors or subject matters printed on index cards. Imagine your personal history departmentalized. Which pull out drawer would be empty or overflowing? Would you add cards or throw away ones just taking up space? What subjects have defined you?

At one particular time, you may have been striving for higher education. Were you looking for knowledge or  a degree. No matter how many letters follow your name nor the length of your work history, defines who you are. With compassion and without attachment to outcome, define who you truly are now in the moment.

Can you speculate as to how you would be different today if when young, in addition to education, you were encouraged to take a deep dive within? What if your unique abilities and heart's desires were blended with plans for a future? How would your life experience been different if all card categories had been aligned? It is never too late for authenticity.

 

Spring Forward

"With the coming of spring, I am calm again."

Gustuv Mahler

May has arrived bringing a new excitement for life. Flowers are blooming, grass is greening, and bees are buzzing. Everything is nudging us towards new growth and expansion. Let's re-examine our intentions for moving forward in our lives. Has our life purpose changed or is it continuing to feel like an exciting journey?

Take a walk outside, slowing your pace to notice the new growth surrounding you. Breathe in the fragrance of spring and feel glad to be alive! Be curious as to how you can rekindle passion triggering curiosity and intention. What would bring you joy while benefiting those around you? The tandem of give and receive nurtures our soul.

Take time to examine your own patterns of behavior. Where do you need to slow down and how can you push up through collected  debris in order to soak up the sun? Stand barefooted in the grass imagining a connection with mother earth. When a gentle breeze whisks across your face, remember who you are and all you yearn to be. 

 

Under the Umbrella

"Too many people today know the price of everything

and the value of nothing."

Ann Landers

In college, my sorority volunteered at a nursing home. There was one woman who reached for my hand, so I sat with her for a spell. She reminisced about 'things' she had acquired and how in time they meant so little. She said we needed to choose wisely the things we held under our umbrella.

It seemed odd at the time, but as I grew older, I began to understand that the world was at our fingertips, but did we really need it all? When we choose discriminatorily, each savored item takes on greater meaning than a vast collection of 'stuff'. So the question is, 'what will I hold under my umbrella?

Now, downsizing, there seems to be an incredible amount of things that are easily given away. It would seem the fewer favorite items had greater meaning than hoarded piles of debris. I am determined to hold valuable memories, spiritual aspirations, love for the sisters of my heart and gratitude for nature under my colorful umbrella!

 

Widen the Scope

"Give love to all things, plants, rocks 

and mountains; for the spirit is one"

Meditation with the Hopi

God created all peoples and we are all made out of energy, so what's the problem? We all have choice whether we are deciding on a dessert, friendship or rock gardens. Selection is based upon personal preference, but with respect for others. In the Spirit of all things, isn't there room for all of us?

If indeed, we were all made like snowflakes being one of a kind, isn't it a little adolescent to strive to be all the same? How about you get to be you and I get to be me! I can learn from the perceptions of others, as they will either reinforce what I already believe or push me into additional speculation.  

If the Universe intended us all to become cookie cutter shapes, why the bother making us all unique? Could it all be as simple as learning to love the self so we will not be threatened by others? Wondering if equality is actually accepting the individuality of each other. Each of us yearns to be seen, but how about we widen the scope while viewing others? 

 

In the Now

"Past and future are in the mind only - I am now."

Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj

Change is necessary for us to propel our lovely selves forward. It can definitely be disruptive, but it is two sided as it can also offer fresh calm. If we glance back across time, we can evaluate how we have lived and what consequences appeared. We can be uncomfortable looking forward into the unknown. Then there is this present moment.

This space before us is where we need to focus. Make an inventory to assess what needs to be addressed.  It may  be mental, physical, spiritual or all three combined. Deciding upon the need, explore what action can best propel us forward. Not just a quick fix, but an upgrade to what has been attempted previously.

Be honest with the self. Do not minimize or dismiss thinking personal needs are selfish or unimportant. Invest in this day with as much gusto as one might offer to a friend. Solidifying parts of the self enable us to offer more into our world. We will boost our compassion and creative input, while being a beacon for others. 

 

Annoyed by Imperfection

 

"There are no uninteresting things, only uninterested people."

G.K. Chesterton

In earlier life, I owned a small country gift shop, The Town Crier.  I engaged with diverse artists and the small cottage industry for third generation weavers, basket makers, and candle makers. I haunted festivals seeking original crafters to bring unique gifts to those who frequented my shop.

While unpacking a shipment of baskets, I noticed a mold looking substance on the reeds and began picking it off. I was annoyed by the imperfection, until I finally realized, the one of a kind baskets were made of pussy willows. I was horror stricken that I had been overlooking the true originality of the offering. I was carelessly tearing it apart.

And is this not like life? With closed minds and preconceived ideas, we make false assumptions. Our thoughts are inaccurate causing our actions to devalue the richness waiting right before us. Perhaps, if we simply slowed down, looked more carefully, listened more intently, our lives would be filled with more happiness and joy.

Disruptive

"The only thing in retrograde is your sense of personal accountability.

Make positive behavioral changes and watch your life improve ...

regardless of where the moon or the planets are."

Steve Maraboli

Retrograde means reverting to an earlier or inferior condition. It refers to a motion of a planet reversing its direction against the normal flow of the earth. For many humans, this type of shift impacts personal energy, emotional stability, and physical alignment. Challenges erupt on numerous levels.

Some experience this stage with extreme loss of sleep or just the opposite, hyper activity. For no apparent reason, one may feel an unexplainable emotional heaviness bordering on depression. Experiencing retrograde energy can be frustrating as we have not done anything to trigger such anxiety.

Energy is very subtle, invisible and highly dynamic. If we are able to let this disruptive energy simply flow, and choose not to over react, this time will be less turbulent. Understanding that we have not done anything to provoke this, we can use endurance for this to pass leaving us unscathed. 

Love for the Littles

"People who are younger than I am 

still have valuable wisdom to share."

Tanya Carroll Richardson

Entering this world, I carried a passion for children. It would stay with me as I raised my own four, directed pre-school, directed daycare, and managed a contract working with families within the 'system'. It was for the kids that I sought out solution for those living with lack.

Now as an elder, I continue to have a love for the littles. If we choose to truly listen with an open mind, revelations stream from their innocent minds. His or her observations, memories, and wisdom surpass all time and space. They are untainted by societies restraints and regulations.

Recently there has been an increase in allowing children to visit nursing homes. I do believe these visits spark hope in the lives of the elderly. Maybe the world won't crash and burn, as these youngsters are honest, loving, and inspirational. If we can encourage them to embrace their worth, they will be able to make a significant difference in the future.

 

Splits and Divides

"Where is the good of your stars and trees, your sunrise

and the wind, if they do not enter into our daily lives?"

E. M. Forster

Water is a key element to my living experience, just as the moon and stars are deeply linked within me. Trees are long time friends housing the birds preparing for flight, and the wind carries messages hiding in sight. I cannot imagine moving through time without the accompaniment of nature.

Chained up dogs, hacked down trees and flower gardens left unattended, weigh heavily in my heart. Seeing fast food debris thrown out the window is unacceptable to me. Over spending while discarding useable goods does not assist the greater good. Ignoring the hungry children, the isolated neighbor or an aging elder splits and divides connection.

Healing rises when while driving we notice a flowering bush and we give it thanks for showing itself to us. Glance up to the sky and embrace sunbeams to warm the heart. Catch a glimpse of a bird in flight and be reminded of freedom. Appreciate all that you have.

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Seek Realignment

"The full moon is a time of heightened energy and intensity,

a moment to let go of what no longer serves you and

embrace new beginnings."

Adventure Yogi

There is such beauty to be found in a full moon. Sitting quietly, getting lost in the bright light, one experiences the influx of energy, a stirring difficult to identify. The moon's energy is exceptionally intense and silently impacts our thoughts and actions. There is a vibration, however, that can truly shake things up.

The full moon is a time for restructuring. When we choose to make a ritual of bringing balance back into our lives, we can experience a deep transformation. Light candles, get comfortable, and transcend from chaotic human to spiritual renewal. Enter a deep meditation or create artistic expression or journal. The mind will settle once we set the pace.

The moon is very prevalent in my life, and a full moon routinely catches me off guard. While not paying attention the lunar cycle, high energy coming in disrupts ... well, just about everything. Emotional debris surfaces bombarding me, and I am caught off kilter until I become still, seeking realignment.

Mother Earth's Energy

"Most everything begins and ends with Mother Earth

which is why taking good care of her is so essential."

Sarah Lemire

There is an increased awareness of toxic chemicals being released which damages fertile  ground, waterways, as well as our fruits and vegetables. The growing accumulation of plastic and waste is also a concern.  It can be overwhelming, but there are numerous ways to do our part and make a difference in our daily living.

Whether we plant a garden or choose to purchase produce locally, our digestive system improves with seasonal nutrients. Passing on used clothing and purchasing recycled products contributes as well. It helps to re-use glass containers for storage, vases or craft projects. Downsize personal libraries and donate to the community or schools.

The earth's natural rhythms can be respected as well. Approaching spring, monitor and adjust how much lighting or air conditioning is necessary. While outside, pick up random debris. Stand facing the moon or sun while giving thanks for the beauty surrounding us. With bare feet, stand upon Mother Earth with a grateful heart feeling an energy exchange.