Silent Consent ...

"I shall assume that your silence gives consent."

Plato

When we experience inner turbulance, it is time to determine what is triggering inner fear. What precisely is causing our distress? Not understanding what is about to unfold, we may physically stand still in space or emotionally withdraw completely. Not knowing what will come next under minds our movement forward.

It is best for one to proceed with bravery and curiosity. Understanding the cycle of dying and renewal, we need to be flexible. With kindness, we can be patient and compassionate as we find our way. We give ourselves time to assess what we feel and how we choose to react. Let no one force commitment to what is lacking full disclosure.

We may struggle with using our voice, but silence can be misleading. A person can assume we agree, so it is best to admit we need more time. Whether we are physically or emotionally fearful, allow time to discover a safe and healthy path. Permitting consent through silence can be dangerous to the body, mind, and soul. 

The Voice of the Wind

"And people's voices were not dear to me

But I could understand the voice of the wind."

Anna Akhmatova

Adult voices could be harshly argumentative while the church was filled with threats of hell and damnation. Teachers wanted every student to be exaactly the same and friends just wanted to join the game. In the park, however, the trees were patiently waiting, swaying from side to side while the wind blew the darkness away.

Families had long standing feuds. Neighbors yelled at each other as the children fought. Dogs growled and the cats meowed. Gangs fought, police killed, and soldiers fought war abroad. At the lake, however, the sun gently dropped from the sky while the wind blew small boats back to shore.

Siblings fought and marriages dissolved while the homes were broken by discord. Avenues once detours now opened as expressways and teslas sped to financial ruin. Loved ones died, but pets were rescued to keep the heart aligned. And the wind, of course, began to howl as it no longer could find the way.

 

  

 

Painted Picture ...

"I paint flowers so that they will not die."

Frida Kahlo 

There was a small sign on the green way that said, "If you love flowers, do not pick, let them live." This may be the first year that I do not pick a flower to bring home as I walk through nature. I used to justify my actions as I only selected one, not even close to a bouquet. Now I hold my yearning at bay.

This seems to be an on going lesson for me. Like when  I wander the bakery aisle viewing delicious sweet treats,  I try to enjoy the fragrance without purchasing a single one. This is the same restraint learned with the flowers. This discipline spilled over into relationships as well.  Where I once interjected my wisdom, I simply learned to be present. 

This change in behavior originally seemed like a deprivation, but it actually offered a new reward.  My eyes would capture a present moment and instead of clutching at it, I would    allow the initial beauty to wash over me. With a willingness to let go, an element of peace gathers ... like a painted picture worth a thousand words. 

 

The Shadow Self ...

"Your identity is like your shadow:

not always visible and yet always present."

Fausto Cercignani

Our shadow self aught not be described as our 'darker' side. It is our quieter more reflective area where wisdom resides. It is the part for personal observations and awareness, sometimes shared with trusted friends. Perhaps there is a margin for incubation, our thoughts being like baby seeds, when nurtured, thrive.

Too much of anything whether internal or external can lead to poor use of our energy. It is through choice that we maintain balance. If we experience a sense of being 'off', it is a signal to realign. All of this requires us to be aware of our inner child needs, physical necessities and spiritual blessings.

When time is taken to monitor our self-care, we can use all of our senses while making decisions that best meet our needs ... not the demands or expectations of others. Life is most rewarding when we learn from our shadow self and then carry the lesson out into our world. The shadow is a positive force not to be hidden or ignored.

Initial Seed of Doubt

"Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life."

Pablo Picasso

During challenging times, we accumulate debris developing a sense of heaviness. We grow weary of thinking while attempting to problem solve. Exploring outside opinions often confuses us more rather than offering clarification. Situations become worse as we continue to repress growing unrest.

Our internal struggle will not be resolved until we take deliberate measures to investigate. In private space, questions must be asked, and answered. Peel all of the layers back to gain a deeper insight. Viewing the core releases built up negativity. Discovery of the initial seed of doubt, allows healing to begin. 

Consistent engagement with poetry, painting, music or meditation aligns our energy. When a specific routine of nurturing our inner spirit is created, our individualistic, independent, and empowered persona discovers renewal. It is imperative to hold the self accountable and implement action. Remember, a one minute mantra is better than none.

 

Art of Being Still

 

"In the midst of movement and chaos,

keep stillness inside of you."

Deepak Chopra

When a sense of lack develops, we want to fill the void as fast as we can. We may feel restless with a lapse in routine. Being alone with our personal thoughts may make us uncomfortable. Unfortunately, we have lost the art of being still which distances us from our strong inner core.

It is within stillness that we learn from our thoughts and feelings. It houses awareness of how we are perceiving life. It is a private sanctuary where we can feel safe and vulnerable. It is an area where it is okay to simply be. Releasing impulses to be driven, we return to the state of human being rather than doing. 

When there is total lack of activity or movement, we experience stillness. It is within this quietude that peace can be found. Connection with our higher selves or Divine Spirit, gently guides and refreshes our vision. It is within this space that we are awakened and renewed towards the life we long to live. 

Reconciliation

"Change starts with a simple step, but it requires

collective effort to truly make a difference."

David Baldacci

On the one side, we are confident operating with strengths. On the other side, we question and judge, complicating alignment. A battle exists within and until there can be acceptance on both sides, or we will not experience life as intended. It is imperative for us to learn how to get out of our own way.

Entering a new adventure whether it is a class, relationship or mind set, we believe anything is possible. Momentum increases and our vision soars with glittering speculation. Then the next day unfolds, and we pick everything apart with self-judgment and the belief in limitations. Differing sides must be heard, but reconciled. 

The time arrives when we must hold ourselves accountable and gather all of our parts together for purposeful support. We cannot control life, but personal choice contributes to our well being. Recognize a desire and create a workable plan with numerous small steps. The key is to simply begin acknowledging doubt, while focusing on the will to succeed. 

Prime Partnership

"An undying spirit is the primary source of help

because it is within you."

Fridah Githuku

Our inner spirit is encouraged, when we can engage in conversations without fear of reprimand. Listening to diverse opinions, whether accepted or not, promotes growth. Evolution is created when the differences between men and women are gently brought together for the advancement of all.

When we awaken to our inner spirit, our life takes on new energy, eager to learn and discover. There is no hesitancy to broaden perspectives with others as we believe we all have something to contribute.  Through respectful gatherings, we find opportunities to make a difference in our personal life and in the lives of others.

As we step through fear and assert our voice, strength grows. Others understand us more clearly and we begin to expand our confidence which leads us into a more evolved life. We no longer feel lesser than and welcome the opportunity to visualize and conceptualize. Maintaining a healthy relationship with the self is a prime partnership.

Male Restraints

""...she will no longer look to men or male figures as saviors."

Womanspirit Rising

Many women were taught to respect elders, primarily men. The expectation was for women to keep their mouths closed as well as their brains. Men dominated in the capacity of priests, doctors, lawyers, and were never to be questioned. There was no need for women to be educated, vote, or hold any position except slave in the world of men.

Women were unable to meet the high standards of Mary's virgin birth of Christ. Then there was the example of Eve's defiance causing humanity to be thrown into hell. It is no wonder why the road to liberation for women, (body, mind and spirit), has been relentlessly challenging and costly. 

Women are breaking restraints, although paying dearly. The feminine spirit is calling to be heard and respected, not modified or dismantled. Men are finally hearing the wisdom of women and learning to apply it to the male structure. Now it is time for men and women of all cultures to join together, calling out for freedom and equality. 

 

Passages of Time

"The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time."

James Taylor

For some fellow earth travelers, purpose is about being present for others without judgment. Maybe the search is about discovering the depths of a person's soul. Whether teetering on the highest wrung of the social ladder or sliding into darkness, there are lessons needed to be learned to enable safe passage of time.

When we begin to see the uncharted paths of others, courage slips into our souls. It is in the acceptance of rugged terrain that life can be realistically embraced. There will be steep inclines of challenge as well as rapid declines creating the necessity of flexible momentum. By establishing the awareness of various passages, encouragement propels us forward.

If well versed in pathways, we will be educated in advance. We will know that there are choices of movement to best discern which foot steps are safest. Admittedly, there are elements beyond our control, blowing us off course. But when sure footed, we remain focused on forward movement enjoying the beauty to be found in the passage of time.

Emotional Bridge

"Where flowers bloom, so does hope."

Lady Byrd Johnson

Different circumstances continuously impact the rhythm of life. As things unfold in an orderly manner, there tends to be a steady flow. Doused with joyful situations, there is increased peace and love. Let there be a mishap, however, and our emotions may suck us down into darkness.

For many, today will be filled with bunnies and jelly beans surrounded by loved ones. In reality, many individuals will be alone based upon the shift in family structures. The differences in generations can slowly build a divide or gather with respect. Easter Sunday is supposedly a celebration, but for many it is not.

If we seriously consider the span from Good Friday and horrible death to Easter Sunday and ascension, it smacks of false perceptions for grieving and loss. Somehow the emotional bridge between the days needs to be extended for appropriate processing. Perhaps, if we focus on hope we will be able to take things in stride.

Personal Ascension

"Faith is the strength by which a shattered world

shall emerge into the light."

Helen Keller

Ascension is rising above the world into the heavens. This thought allows us to hope for surviving difficult times. We envision escaping darkness into the light. As Christ arose from the darkness of death into the soft sacred light, we as well long for the same. Whether escaping immediate pain, forthcoming disaster, or death, we long for light.

As we lapse into sleep and dream in beautiful light waves, perhaps these are glimpses of a different reality. With our imagination, we create scenes with tender hearted exchanges evolving into peace. How is it large populations of humans long for peace while projecting violence and death unnecessarily?

I do not believe death and rising into the afterlife is our worldly answer. The solution for peace with abundant survival lies dormant in the minds of misguided people. What is needed is already in the hearts of men, now. We must wake up and rise above this darkness. It is through personal evolution that one will ascend. 

Discard Human Suit

 

"Think of everything you've ever experienced that was painful;

that's the meaning of Good Friday. Think of all the ways that

love ultimately healed your heart; that's the meaning of Easter."

Marianne Williamson

The reference to the death of Jesus as Good Friday has always seemed offensive to me. Was it not a painful day filled with violence and death? How is this classified as being 'good'? In addition to my quandary, who knows if it were actually a Friday! Perhaps we need to prioritize and seek deeper significance.

Death on the cross was chosen brutal action against an innocent. It was men being barbaric based on false information. And I sit here today, wondering how it is that man continues to persecute others based on false perceptions.Why have we not learned and implemented peaceful ways? If God has made all of us in 'his' image, how in the world have we strayed?

Jesus believed in after life, or so I have been taught. So hopefully his spirit immediately left his physical body to return to a soul's existence. He said that we would all do the same. When it is time for me to discard my human suit, I do hope my doubts will be lifted as I gain greater understanding in the horrific actions of my fellow man.

When Someone Loves You

 

"Let someone love you just the way you are ...

as flawed as you might be, as unattractive as you sometimes 

feel, and as unaccomplished as you think you are."

Marc Hack

Feeling the love of one other may be exhilarating at first, but all too soon, our trust issues surface. We begin to wonder what we are not seeing or missing as fear runs thick. Unless we realize what we are doing to our lovely selves, our negative speculations can totally destroy any possibility of a healthy and loving relationship.

When the 'honeymoon' phase dissipates, we may begin to take issue with routines or preferences. The underlying fear that has never gone away once again begins to dismantle the beauty of the relationship. As we begin to withdraw, our perceptions become flawed and distance becomes the great divide. 

Each person brings unique gifts to the table meant to strengthen and secure the union. This will not happen if we cannot allow the self to be vulnerable. When we lovingly accept our self and encourage our partner, love grows. Verbalizing feelings strengthens the bonds meant to be true and offers comfort in being seen.

The Hawk in a Tree

"I just don't think I'm looking for the big moments in life anymore.

It's more the simple ones that make for a beautiful day now."

S.C. Lourie

While sitting on the patio, writing about simplicity, my eyes were drawn to the top branches of a tree. Much to my surprise, a hawk was perched there, seemingly waiting for me.  It dropped down to a lower branch as if he truly wanted to be seen. Quickly, I sent him a silent, and welcoming hello. He was just so beautifully unexpected!

I reached for my camera wanting to capture his presence, but when I looked back up, he was gone. It was then that I was reminded of how this gift of presence was not meant to be anything but simply appreciated. It was a suspended moment in time ushering tenderness into my day.

This gives me reason to walk slowly upon this earth, observing the simple beauty just waiting to be seen. Other senses join in listening to the giggles of a small child blowing bubbles into the wind or the older child struggling to fly his kite with too short a string. Even the tiny rain drops splashing upon my cheek ... beautiful simplicity. 

 

The Quiet Sense of Bravery

"Doing your best when no one sees how hard it is ...

that kind of quiet strength is often

the bravest kind of all."

Mary Anne Radmacher

There are those moments when someone asks us how we are and we readily reply that we are great, in spite of the heavy emotions hidden within our being. We may go on an outing with favored friends feeling safe and supported until we walk back into our inner personal worlds. In some respects, our lives may be wonderful and yet weighted in darkness.

While facing seemingly insurmountable challenges, one carefully assesses the situation, and gathers information with respect for limitations. Remembering our own personal power activates our sense of bravery. We can recall our history of being strong and recapture our ability to look fear right in the eye.

Creating a daily mantra reflecting inner strengths secures a solid baseline. We are prepared with integrity and resilience to apply energies to face whatever unfolds. Each situation is about doing our best, not overextending into depletion. We are brave souls needing to refurbish our energies and hold silent vigil within our being.

 

Embrace the Hues

"We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry,

and we must understand that all the threads of this tapestry

are equal in value no matter what their color."

Maya Angelou

With my passion for quilting, I made a quilt for each of my children after he or she was born. I diligently selected the material being impeccable with matching colors. Years later, when I used quilting as a means to get rid of my accumulated material, colors were never harmonious. And guess which quilts drew more attention! The oddly gathered colors.

I am the same when gathering books or making acquaintances. The more diverse the better. When entertaining, none of the silverware matches (but freshly polished), glasses do not match and no two plates are the same, to say nothing of a collection of uniquely colored napkins. I find joy in contrasts whether it is found in people, places or things.

The world is filled with diversity in languages, peoples, and cultures. There can be intrigue in learning from each other whether personally invested or not. Layers are intended to gently  reflect differences and embrace hues. Complications occur when the eyes are tightly squinting out of fear, blocking the most beautifully diverse view.

 

Lean In or Step Back

"The human mind always makes progress, 

but it is a progress in spirals."

Madame De Stael

The painter never paints just one canvas. A poet has more than one sonnet. The Chef de Cuisine has numerous versions of a recipe. We are subconsciously nudged to do better. Our repetitive behavior continues to circle until we are directed elsewhere. Much to our surprise, however, we will often find ourselves at the beginning again.

There is nothing worse than finalizing a piece of work having done what we think is our best, only to have it returned with a 'do over' printed on top. There are situations where we have mastered the task, but somehow it comes back around as though checking to see if we have indeed learned the lesson.

The swirling learning curve becomes more tolerable when we are paying attention. With awareness, we can catch and realign before spinning out of control. We have the choice to lean in closer to see the finer print or step back for a broader view. It is not about perfection! It is about making progress towards becoming whole.

Full Moon and Rearranging Stars

"Everyone has their own space, their own parade 

and their own world in their head ... "

Tetiana Goodkova

Once again, the moon is full sending out vibrations for release and not resistance. It is a time to make room for discovering new approaches and fresh applications. The full moon has a way of stirring our soul, causing discomfort for regrouping our efforts. Perhaps, it is a rude awakening to what is no longer working and the need for inspiration.

We get stuck with our minds making repetitive decisions resulting in a lack luster lifestyle. We grow discontent and instead of going within, we are drawn outward by distractions. Nothing will change if we do not create and follow up with revitalized action. It is imperative to hold ourselves accountable rather than waiting for magical change.

When we sit quietly and give a name to our emotions, the strings connecting to triggers are noticeable. We cannot always adjust the cause, but we certainly can adapt the affect. Our movement generates new energy that can be channeled into orchestrating new scenarios. It is time, my friend, to soak up the full moon energies and rearrange our stars.

 

Where is your Sacred Space?

"Your sacred space is where you can find yourself again and again."

Joseph Campbell

Each member of the group was given the same question to ponder with the answer to be shared later.  The question was, "Where is your sacred space?" One by one, answers were shared and then a group discussion followed. Most responses referenced get a way retreats or favorite scenic places.

Rather than waiting for a perfect vacation, we can create a sanctuary in our home, out on our porch, or in a neighboring park. Familiarity with any of these places allows for immediate comfort. We can heighten the experience by creating rituals. Music, candles, essential oils and meditations heighten the existence of sacred spaces.

What if we created a sanctuary with our mind's eye?  Holding the inner image with reverence, we could visit it spontaneously and cease feeling vulnerable. We could pull ourselves back from the edge of emotion with a blink of the eye. It is within this created stillness that we could experience a safe haven, greeting the self over and over again.

 

Unearthing Soul

"Wholeness does not mean perfection; it means

embracing brokenness as an integral part of life."

Parker J. Palmer

We come into this world as brilliant souls, screaming at our sudden physical limitations. We are bursting with knowledge, but our unsuspecting bodily needs become paramount. The human experience overwhelms our sensory experiences, and our eternal memories subside. Too easily, we forget who we are.

Our culture has the tendency to highlight our shortcomings while minimizing our strengths. We are expected to fit into preconceived family expectations causing our inner glow to  subside. Eventually, we find ourselves unwrapping exterior layers to once again connect with our soul. 

It is necessary to dislodge family patterns and reclaim what we personally deem as being truth. Space needs to be created to heal and review. As we rebuild, our hearts grow stronger attracting what will help us stretch and grow. At our core, we remember our goodness to be shared with others in making dreams come true.

Brave Little Soldier

"Bravery is the capacity to perform properly 

even when scared half to death." 

Omar N. Bradley  

Life calls us to be brave little soldiers. Dysfunction crushes and humiliates us, but we endure.  Using the rush of adrenaline triggered by fear, we push forward. The scales are not balanced and we find ourselves heavy laden with burdens rarely our own. As life shatters around us, we bury within the dregs of sudden loss and sorrow.

Not wanting pity or invasive intervention, we straighten our cap and hold fast our guns. We don the uniform of success and bully our way to false triumphant victory. Time varies, but eventually we can do it no more. We strip ourselves of erroneous badges, claiming 'brave little soldier' no more.

As a veteran of our own private war, we wander back to where we were pushed or simply strayed. We reclaim our personal space, seeking who we once were. We may feel naked without our guise, but the sense of freedom propels us forward. Loving kindness becomes our shield and weapons are needed no more.

 

Angels in Human Suits

"Living in time and space is one of the

scariest, loneliest, and sometimes most

heartbreaking paths an angel could ever choose."

The Universe

When quite young, angels play with us and hear our giggles and tears. They appear not only when beckoned by prayer, but also in the darkness of night. They calm our souls and we believe every thing will be all right. Time passes and life becomes challenging. We yearn for the presence of angels to help us faee our plight.

Angels loiter in our peripheral space, waiting for us to ask for help or guidance. They may not appear in full angel wings, but their presence becomes noticeable like a haunting memory. Whether the angelic sensation comes through a forgotten melody or the laughter of a child, there is no mistaking their identity. 

We experience segments of loneliness, stress or frustration, but there are also interludes of happiness, pleasure and joy. When we remember that we, too, are angels consistently traveling up and down the spiral, forgiveness and healing flows. We are angels wearing human suits, so let no one strike one or the other.

 

Adventure Begins!

 

"... there are no wrong turns, only unexpected paths."

Mark Nepo

Spring is opening before us, heralding pathways with flowers. Which way shall we turn? Will we return to what is mildly familiar or risk adventure? Simply open the heart and proceed. There will be other travelers needing guidance and together there will be needed support. Through sharing, encouragement for proceeding will be abundant.

Be comfortable with not having all of the answers. There will be boulders on the path waiting to be skirted, mounted or simply rested upon. Do not perceive misdirections as errors as they may be lessons in disguise. Do not be in a hurry as the journey is the prize not the ending.

Lessons from the past may empower us, but it is in the present moment that adventure awaits. Do not hesitate to stroll when beckoned by the sounds of spring. Notice the leisure flight of the creatures with wings. Breathe in the gentle blue of the sky and sway with the wind. My fellow traveler, it is time for adventure to begin!

Documenting Worth

"Self-worth is not subject to external factors;

self-worth is what you think about yourself."

Scarlet Miles

When we are raised to think small, it takes time to build awareness of self-worth and even longer to cultivate direction. It is when we can embrace the truth of our importance, the opinions of others have less impact. Reaching to be who you are not is a waste of who you truly are meant to be.

When we notice how we feel after achievement, motivation gains clarity. If we were sharing our best, authentically invested, and heart centered, our feelings will support our gestures and integrity whether successful or not. External factors may roar, but focusing on personal potential  that aligns with our skill guides us towards our sense of worth.

Whether using a daily journal or a weekly ledger, recording our efforts will maintain our thrust forward. Definition comes from within.  Jotting down small efforts are important not only in the moment, but when assessing the larger picture as well. Emphasis aught not be about proving the self as we already have inner qualities that can make us shine. 

Dreamscapes

 

"... no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams."

Paulo Coelho

Our dreams are a beautiful backdrop to daily living. They demonstrate our emotions whether bitterly angry or blissfully happy. Subtle messages repeat in differing scenarios until we finally recognize the narrative. Flashes of the future may appear or visions of loved ones who now walk in a different world, greet us.

Waking dreams are just as significant. We may drive by a school yard or a playground, catching a glimpse of our children when they were young. Observing two women run into each others arms, makes us realize how much we want a friend. While watching a movie that we are not invested in, we begin to cry uncontrollably with release.

When we do not pay attention to our dreams, it is similar to walking around with an encyclopedia and never looking inside. Dreams are outlandish to catch our attention. Danger might be indicated to give us warning. Premonitions about both birth and death are plentiful. Start investing in personal dreams for guidance in daily living.

Happy Feet!

"Joy reminds me to be where my feet are."

Alex Elle

The directions sound so simple ... align the mind with the feet. Some of our lofty visions, however, are racing far ahead to areas where it is doubtful our footsteps will ever follow. Then past memories cloud our mind paralyzing our stance. The majority of the time, we are unaware of the connection between our thoughts and where the feet may lead.

Desires materialize and if we have a plan reflecting action, the possibility of steady flow increases. When we allow fear to intercept our efforts or entertain too many desires at one time, our feet become confused as to exactly which direction they are meant to go. It is imperative to stay in the moment.

The term, 'Happy Feet' depicts a state of mind where we are filled with happiness and bursting with energy to engage with this state of joy.  If we do not, however, mindfully proceed through action, the ecstatic opportunity dissipates. During this chaotic time in our world, we must grasp spontaneous joy in this given moment and let our feet dance!

 

Ever Ready Presence

"Patience is not passive, on the contrary,

it is concentrated strength."

Bruce Lee

Throughout life, trees have been a symbol of patience and strength. They withstand brutal weather, gently release decorative leafs and bury roots deeply into the ground. This root system feeds neighboring trees that are in need. Science is also documenting how trees communicate with each other.

What patience trees must have to stand so tall throughout the years. They are impacted by altered climates, faulty air, and carelessness of human beings. I believe Sid Silverstein's book, The Giving Tree best describes the life of a tree. Too often we take for granted all of the gifts freely offered by various species of trees.

Trees offer the example of resilience, and calm without clarity.   They offer shade and allow  humans to climb high for higher views. There is great energy exchanged when someone leans against the trunk to read, write, or simply be. Trees are sturdy companions with an ever ready presence. They are a remarkable gift from God. 

Tending to Promises

"It's all a great mystery ...

Look up at the sky and you'll see how everything changes."

Antoine de Sait-Exupery

The bell in the tower started ringing, so I instantly looked up. I could see partial movement and noticed the greenery growing ... actually thriving. I then spotted a large black bird circling overhead with a background of large fluffy clouds gently floating by. And isn't this just like change? The slightest shift and new segments appear.

Spring is advancing, bringing new growth while rekindling our desire to be outside. Our mind shifts to promises made over the winter and wonderment of how to bring them into the present. Shrugging off heavy outerwear, we are eager for the sun to shine, just as tiny buds push up through the earth. They, too, long for the energy beaming from the sun. 

Let us not forget the promises made for longer bike rides, garden explorations, and extended walks in the park. Retrieve an old vase with the intention to fill it with flowers every week as recognition that a new season has arrived. Begin anew, reaching higher levels of self understanding and celebration!

Bamboozled and Hoodwinked!

"Fool me once, shame on you.

Fool me twice, shame on me."

Proverb

April Fool's Day can be a time filled with playful pranks amongst friends. It can also be a day reminding us of all of the times we have been foolish or the recipient of deception. While maintaining an essence of innocence, one can be gullible. In our ability to see the good in people, and the desire to be kind, too often we are led into fraudulence. 

With a willingness to believe in people, we often times allow credit to a person where it is not deserved. We tell ourselves stories portraying people learning lessons and deserving a second chance. We may regard a trickster as having grown older and wiser and surely would not bamboozle again. As on honest human, we may find it difficult to believe anyone could be so disingenuous. 

We are less likely to be hoodwinked if we listen to our gut churning with discomfort or our heart clenching with suspicion. Being careful with the self has nothing to do with disrespect. It is a safeguard of evaluation of what just doesn't seem right. When things simply don't add up, it is time to recalibrate with careful reassessment to avoid being fooled.