Contagious Light

"On this day and on all days, may you kindle

the light within so you will shine brightly

for all of us to be seen."

Virginia Carlson

There is need to invest in ourselves, just as we invest in others. If there is a wish to make a difference in our own life and in the lives of others, we must unearth our light within. When we stoke our fire, feeding the flames of passion and courage, enlightenment is apparent to those who surround us.

When we tend to our soul,  the outcome helps us to be pillars of light for others. It is not about being perfect or extensively knowledgable. It is about standing strong as a lighthouse for others to find their way. If we are strongly present for the self, it becomes easier to be a light bearer for others.

When we groom our inner strengths, we extend light for others to find themselves and create new avenues for revitalization. Each human holds himself or herself accountable, but shining light from others nudges us along our way. If we hide in our darkness, our progress will be lengthy. If we extend our light, we find our way together.

 

Glorious Face

 

Tear off the mask, your face is glorious!"

Rumi

At times, we are saddled with pain, but we are not meant to be stuck in it. Misfortune presents itself so that we can discover and explore our strengths. It is our inner war and we are called to cease fine ... not give in to it. When we stop projecting who we think we aught to be, and fully embrace our beautiful inner spirit, life changes.

Delving into newly discovered information and encouraging pilgrimages inward, we are called to action.  Application of what aligns with our soul enhances our beauty which then shines outward. Our rekindled enthusiasm draws others to us, validating our unique skills and attributes. 

Read the book, study the material, and put it into practice. Give the self permission to exceed someone else's limited belief of us. As one moves forward, energy builds and our true nature is exposed. If not appreciated, we must find new acquaintances by altering our community of friends. Shine, for you truly are glorious!

Just Stop!

"Dwelling on the negative simply contributes to its power."

Shirley MacLaine

It is time to close our ears and adjust our eyes upon the beauty of the world. Joyfully discover what is right in our world. Investing our energy into positive resolutions creates progress. We already know what is wrong, so focus on what positive actions can generate change.

If we are distracted by political malfunction, then engage with positive action not negative slurring. If we are concerned by the decline of our community, then join forces with others investing time into solutions. If energy is ramping up without significant outlets, take action and volunteer.

Instead of feeding ourselves with fear, determine what attracts us or brings us peace of mind. Get out of the house, stop listening to argumentative reporting or discover a new area in life to explore or support. Stop being a victim and return awareness to being a positively determined human being. 

Actions, Not Words

                                            "Let your actions speak louder than words."                                                                       Author Unknown

At Drum Circle, I position myself across from the swings so that I can watch people of all ages mesmerize themselves in nature with the swaying movement.. Today I noticed one swing was intentionally knotted up above the bar. Obviously a prank that deprived both young and old of a Sunday afternoon delight.

The afternoon of drumming was soothing my soul. Then I was unexpectedly distracted by a college age couple walking toward the swings. As the young lady settled upon one, her companion noticed the entangled swing and instantly scampered up the pole and across the beam to untangle the chains. I stopped drumming, approached and thanked him.

These are the folks who need to be recognized for their selfless acts of kindness. They reach out to assist others without desire for recognition or pay. These are the examples to remind humanity that we are surrounded by loving human beings. Please, when a gentle gesture suddenly appears, give thanks and praise. 

                                    

Sense of Belonging

"The greatest thing in the world is to know how to belong to oneself."

Michel De Montaigne

When we listen to our favorite sounds, whether the ocean or birds in nature, do we ask ourselves questions? If not, it is a missed opportunity. We can learn more about ourselves and heal hidden wounds. Do we flinch when we hear angry words or experience fear in certain circumstances? What emotion is lingering below?

We are surrounded by voices offering opinions or mindlessly chattering. Do we realize how these words are being gathered within our memory bank? Aught we be more selective in our listening? If our body does not discern between fact and fiction, what false leads are being programed?

In conversations, do we listen to what words we choose and do we  ask deliberate questions with genuine interest? If we desire a more meaningful life, perhaps we can begin with forming a more loving relationship with the self. By seeking clarity in our thoughts and words, we will gain a greater sense of belonging to ourselves.

Creataive Existence

"The goal of life is to make your heartbeat match the beat

of the universe, to match your nature with Nature."

Joseph Campbell

Daily, we can choose to see the beauty in life. We can marvel at the new studies of the ocean and how sea creatures communicate. We can learn of the connection between trees as they feed each other through the root systems. Documentation of animals deemed to be enemies actually assist one and other in crisis.

These inner connections are minor to the remarkable vibrancies meant to stimulate mankind. Individually created, we return to earth to once again advance our souls. We bring past history, sparks of innovation, and awareness of  joined spirituality. It is without intention to destroy humankind nor mother nature.

If we are made by the same Godly source, sharing goals of creative existence, how is it we become so filled with fear and hatred? Surely we do not return to earth with vengeance and clenched fists. Turn inward, please. Connect with all that is so that we can peacefully walk upon this earth as the children God intended us to be.

Equal Spirits

"I am certain that I have been here as I am now, a thousand 

times before, and I hope to return a thousand times."

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Ancient cultures respected balance between man and nature, while placing the Divine in thoughts, words, and prayers. Rituals brought spirits and elders peacefully together and lived God centered. Individuals were not driven by greed and lust for power. Life was more simplistic and far less excessive in ways of living.

We returned to correct errors and establish a better existence. We must remember to fill our hearts with love so that our behaviors honor the Divine. Through meditation, prayer, and visualization, we reconnect with our spiritual essence, recalling our immortal connections. This alignment allows us to bring balance into our world.

We have returned to thrive in creative peaceful ways. We did not come back to hate, rape and destroy. In our inner being, we truly know that no one is better than anyone else. We are equal spirits needing to help each other heal and become aligned with nature. We must transform our love into a bond of brothers and sisters.

The Return of Souls

 

"We come back with the same souls, but in different relationships."

Helen Wambach

There is a theory that we never return alone. We journey back into human form with those we have 'traveled' with before. We may change gender, and alter relationships. Geographical locations may change as well as the culture we choose. The prior union of souls and life lessons are entwined.

Diverse cultures maintain the belief of existence prior to birth and and existence after death. The Divine oversees our pilgrimages back to life as souls dressed in human form. With rekindled determination, we open ourselves to new growth and deeper understanding. Appreciation for mother earth and all inhabitants is paramount.

We are called to increase our compassion for ourselves and for others. It is intended that we lift helping hands and work together. Deepening our understanding of life purpose and the steps required, we can patiently bridge differences. Consistent communication with the spirit world best supports us through our earthly travels.

Unexplored Layers

"Like dust brushed from an old painting, as we

journey beneath the surface layers of life,

another landscape is revealed."

Atalina Wright

Children tell us amazing tales that we immediately categorize as fantasies even when they feel hauntingly familiar. We encounter strangers who instantly connect with us on a high  level of vibration. While exploring foreign lands or traveling to parts unknown, we suddenly recognize areas where we have never traveled before.

There are deeper levels of the mind, just waiting to be explored. They are filled with insights and past records linking numerous existences that would reveal our never ending story. Through psychotherapy or hypnosis revelations can unfold. Dreams reveal to us reflections and connections hidden from daily living.

Energy triggers intuition which allows us to trust in what is unseen or unknown. It is a means of guiding us if we would slow down, noticing the correlation in life sequences. Where do our preferences come from or our fears that seem to not have any bearing on current life? There are endless layers waiting to be explored.

 

Beyond Limits

"The only way to define your limits is by going beyond them."

Arthur C. Clarke

There are three layers in need of exploration when seeking healing. We can identify them as the subconscious, conscious, and superconscious mind or use the frame work of the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Understanding the three levels, will facilitate movement beyond boundaries. 

When a person turns inward to understand the complexity of the mind, barriers will be removed and the self expands. As explanations unfold as to why we act or react to situations, warmth of empowerment occurs. Roadblocks are to challenge us to become stronger, and not meant to prohibit progress.

With loving kindness towards the self, our parts begin to flourish. We are not just one thing! We are a beautiful collage with each layer needing nurturing and encouragement. With intention to each portion, healing takes place. Our energy grows stronger and we become a force. Limits are meant to be lowered. 

Unlock the Door

"The hardest thing to open is a closed mind."

Ahmed Kathrada

In the darkest of times, we bolt the doors of our mind and brace ourselves for the unseen psychological forces. Instinct tells us to hold fast to what we know which then triggers rigid behaviors. As we shut down emotionally, energy is used for survival, rather than preparing  for rehabilitative change.

What if we threw open the windows of our mind? How would it feel for fresh thoughts and possibilities to float into consciousness? What if we prayed for guidance and actually became still long enough to perceive it? As light filters in, we may begin to see ourselves as the Divine intended.

Our mind is impacted by numerous teachers speaking in different languages. Our vision contracts and expands to allow new variances of creativity. With a slight shift in nuance, we may hear a different interpretation. It is time to open the doors of the mind, allowing light to show us a new way.

Discord Reduced

"Evolution and all hopes for a better world rest in the

fearlessness and open-hearted vision of people who embrace life."

John Lennon

Growing into the self is a process that requires dedication and patience. When steps are taken to remove stress and foster vision, our increased awareness of all things being connected expands. Establishing a sense of love minimizes our fear and enables inner healing to unfold.

Operating from a base of welcomed healing, our intentions take on a higher level of dedication. Even the way we communicate with others becomes more thoughtful. Our eyes begin to see a bigger picture which assists in making increased acts of kindness. Discord is reduced from this higher standpoint. 

Recognizing that we are all connected generates respect and honor. It does not mean that we can impose our concepts upon others, but to gently share and lead by example. There is an allowance for others to develop his or her own belief system. We learn to accept that we all need space to cultivate without harm to each other.

See the Reward!

"Feelings are the whispers of the soul,

guiding us through life's journey."

Samuel Brooks

Transformation occurs when we accept responsibility for our spiritual health as first and foremost. The energy transmitted through spiritual realms increases our own energy field. With this increased energy, we regain power to heal our lovely selves and move forward in helping to heal our world.

The impact of nature is important to our body, mind, and soul. Our exposure is not to be limited to a once per year vacation. Choosing healthy foods that nature has prepared also increases the energy in our body. A healthy body with peace in our mind is pivotal to the spiritual communication and connection.

Controlling both mind and body accelerates our progress. We become an open vessel for incoming guidance. This moves us not only forward, but deeper. We must, however, pay attention and be patient with our progress. Developing guidance on the journey does not alleviate challenge, but helps us to see the reward.

Reservation in Spiritual Realm

"Everything in the universe is connected;

the challenge is to realize this connection."

Oliver Hayes

Too frequently, our spiritual self gets buried by commitments to our family, friends, and work. Even our society designates only one day per week for spiritual connection. Over the years, we have been reclaiming personal connection with the Divine. No longer do wait for a middle man to deliver our despair or thanksgiving.

We must find a private space not only in our environment, but in our spiritual realms. Requesting  assistance from angels, spirit guides and the Divine, we will discover pathways to a deeper meaning of our existence and connection. It is in this space we find peace, healing, and deeper perspectives.

As we accept responsibility for significant contributions to our life purpose, there is a need to feed our souls. We can choose from numerous mentors and spiritual practices. Which specific resource is chosen is less important than your dedication. The importance to take an active role in blending spiritual practice with every day living.

 

Don't Shoot The Messenger!

"Wisdom is looking back at your life and realizing that

every single person, place, and idea was part of the perfected

experience you needed to build your dream. Not one was a mistake."

John Federick Demartini

Little Soul and the Sun is a child's story written by Neale Donald Walsch, and loved by numerous adults. The theme suggests that when we return to earth to take on human form, additional spirits accompany us. They often times are the triggers for extremely difficult lessons and viewed as villains.

If this is the case, we definitely need to forgive those who hurt, harm, or challenge us. It is when we shift focus from blame to holding the self accountable, our spirit advances towards the reasons for coming back to earth. This is not to say that one lovingly embraces the adversary, but simply don't condemn them.

When we browse back through our journal, our understanding broadens as pieces begin to fall into place. The things we jotted down through hatred, anger, and fear, may very well have been the catalyst towards completion of a lesson. We do not come back alone. We are lovingly accompanied by messengers playing extremely difficult roles.

Shedding Confinement

"I look upon death to be as necessary to our constitutions

as sleep. We shall rise refreshed in the morning."

Benjamin Franklin 

Just as the earth embraces the deceased or the ashes are gently placed inside of the urn, the spirit certainly is captive no more. Shedding the confinement of body, mind, and soul, once again the spirit takes flight, free to return to the truest sense of home. With freedom our hearts soar, recalling the endless existence for all.

Once again, discussion with our spirit guides prevail and all becomes clear. With loving kindness, failure and success are explored with determination to understand. Alignment gathers multiple life times to make sense of our ever growing saga. Those who left human form prior to us come forward, both friend and foe.

The cycle of birth, and death is better understood from this higher vantage point. Silent communication speaks clearly and the depths of oneness prevails. Abundant energy takes forms of light which shines everywhere. This is our true home with the Divine and together love prevails. 

Riddled with Complexity ...

"I'm a great believer in the hereafter, in karma, in reincarnation.

It does make sense. I believe that God is not not just a

law-giver, but a creative artist."

Norman Mailer

Imagine sitting with spiritual guides prior to entering a human form on earth. Discussions could include intentions of life purpose, and who you might want to accompany you. But  other conversations might explore where you might want to live. And what about gender and how long you would be willing to live?

Perhaps knowing there is life after death, it is easier to make decisions, willing to pass or fail for personal growth or development of humanity. Certainly risks are considered with no control over accidents or failure of others to do his or her expected part. Does one have a preference to psychological makeup or does that just unfold with experience?

God surely is the supreme Creator, but you also have expansive creative abilities that may have grown dormant over your life span. Perhaps you have forgotten powers that you brought with you. Maybe the allotment of energy you chose brought is not enough for unexpected tasks at hand. Life is riddled with complexity.

At Any Given Moment ...

"At any given moment, your circumstances can change.You may not be where you want to be right now. You may not even be doing what you prefer to do." Amaka Imani Nkosazana

Careers may dissolve after long years of investment. Relationships supporting our best interest may dissipate. Belief systems from childhood may evaporate. How we choose to react will have direct bearing on forward movement.

Change is lavished in all areas of life, prodding us towards new discovery.  Opportunities to expand and develop may harshly arrive changing our direction.One thrives when the mind opens to receive new concepts, pathways, and destinations.

There are benefits from a pause, looking beyond fear while exploring possibilities. When forced to begin again, gain clarity aligned with the heart's desire. Be dedicated to using positive energy to find the best scenario, generating a higher purpose and dream come true.

Breed Integrity

 

"The ability to observe without evaluation 

is the highest form of intelligence."

Jiddu Krishnamurti 

When a sacred space is created within ourselves, we have a place to breed integrity. We can push back against outside interference, allowing our lovely selves a place to heal and feel safe. It is a center where we can be in communion with the Divine. Decision making is not allowed here nor is aimless thinking. There is nothing but peace.

In the world outside of ourselves, it is impossible to meet all of the needs of our loved ones. In our life purpose, it may take years to accumulate what we need. Our impact on the outer world might have very little impression. So while making decisions that we can control, what better source than our inner self.

While in the center of our being, we can feel empowered by the sense of connection. Filled with love, we can turn outwards with less judgment and criticism. We can use our awareness to understand, not approve. When we feel whole, we are less likely to be pulled off course.  There is no need to evaluate while projecting positive energy.

Getting High On Life

"The boomers' biggest impact will be on eliminating the term

retirement and inventing a new stage of life ...

the new career arc." 

Rosabeth Moss Kanter

If you were privileged to meet folks who were once labeled 'hippies', you will know how very gifted many of them were. There came a time, however, where beards were shaved and bras were once again adorned. They acquiesced to social expectations to advance provisions for families they would liberally raise.

There was so much talent to be found within the 'groupies' whether wood workers, weavers, gardeners, song writers or poets. Many of these gifts were put on hold while expanding into professional lives. Now that they have reached retirement, they are returning to what they love which is creative artful expression.

Hippies were tender hearted and peaceful individuals and they have not lost these qualities. Settling into the later years of life, they are once again teaching their trade, sharing passions, and communicating peace with peoples, places, and things. They did not grow old to die, man. They aged to get 'high on life".

Impact With Love

"A life is not important except in the impact

it has on other lives."

Jackie Robinson

It is not how we have been treated that shapes our lives.  It is how we use what has been given to us whether joy or sorrow. Anything can be a catalyst for human growth. If blessed with an exceptional mom, celebrate that. If a mother was absent from life, use the experience of loss to bring kindness to one other.

Not being blessed with a loving mother, I became determined to become one. I have four remarkable children, the youngest was born on Mother's Day. After the three boys, she was certainly a surprise and a gift that keeps on giving. I was far from perfect, but I surely tried to do my very best.

My professional career was dedicated to welfare of children. I was able to take my wound and use it as a positive. So whatever is being experienced today, shift it into affirmative action or dedication to future kindness to others. If you were lavished with love, then share by example. Let us all bring the element of love into our wounded world.

Savor the Day

"Mother's Day can be hard on those grieving their mothers 

and those without a mother."

Pulse

Tomorrow, Mother's Day, can be quite festive whether celebrating our own mother or the role of being the mother. It can be challenging if we cannot be physically present with our mother or if our children are absent. Then there are those who never knew their mother and continue to experience this as a grave loss.

There are numerous women who may have stepped into our lives as a teacher or a mentor making a world of difference. They noticed something within us and helped us to embrace our gifts. So the value may come from the relationship itself, not in the label of mother. The importance is in recognizing our worth and sharing it with others.

So let us remember that tomorrow can be an emotional day for various reasons. Reach out to others who will be alone. A quick exchange of words can be significantly up lifting.  Drop off a baked good or share a brief walk. Whether stranger, best friend or relative, a simple acknowledgment can help savor the day.

Truth Be Known

"The trouble with the world is not that people know too little;

it's that they know so many things that just aren't so."

Mark Twain

Our world is increasing its pace, and information bombards us whether it is supportive or destructive. We cannot possibly absorb uncensored input with sufficient accuracy. Original facts easily become misconstrued as they filter through individual perceptions. Then there is more conflict in what is good for one person, may be detrimental to one other.

Discord cannot be avoided, but how we deal with it is a matter of choice. If we are unknowledgeable about a topic, find appropriate resources so that conversations can be extended for clarity. If we are well versed and happen to disagree, we have the right to speak our truth with gentle firmness.

There are times we assume something when we have only heard bits and pieces. Based upon our own insecurities, the emphasis may shift resulting in inaccurate interpretations. We need to ask ourselves whether or not something is true. We have the option to change our perspectives or reinforce what we hold as truth.

 

Thoughts ...

"With our thoughts we make the world."

Gautama Buddha

If we look for the empty spaces in our lives, we will find them. They may widen each time they are explored. With enough attention, we may even fall into the space that has grown into a hole. But in this darkness, we finally notice our light that shines. Just a small flicker will encourage us to change the way we process thoughts.

If we consider our blessings, our hearts become full. With positive anticipation, abundance begins to flow. When we stop equating fullness with monetary gain, the world expands bringing a rush of joy. As we open our lovely selves rather than contracting, connections will expand and heighten.

If we examine our core belief, do we appreciate personal goodness or dwell on past errors? When we choose to reconnect with inner divinity, transition will rapidly begin. Switching perceptions about our value triggers an attraction to a more fulfilling life. Regaining a sense of power, we can create a better world for ourselves.

A Singular Flower

"You were given this life because you are strong enough to live it."

Ain Eineziz

A singular flower appears to be vibrantly colored while standing strong. It reaches up as though it not only knows its destination, but sustains unyielding confidence. We admire the bloom, forgetting how hard it pushed up through the earth, sustained storms, and resisted chemicals. Endless energy seems to nurture the stalk.

Perhaps it is the sun that the lovely gem strives towards, investing less time in the chaos of loitering bees. Even though it does not have eyes, it surely has an awareness of other growing seeds. Graciously, it may accept that there is no control over the weather and absolutely no need to be combative with others.

What freedom nature has without the need of knowing everything! There is  a simple goal to thrive into its best self. As its leaves begin to fall, surely the flower has an inner sense that all has been done well. The sun continues to shine upon the wilting petals, loving and waiting to welcome all of the flowers home.  

The Art of Snapping!

"Every question was like the snapping of a little

thread about my heart."

Dorothy Wordsworth

So tenderhearted, we worry about other people who reside in other countries or communities or circle of friends. If we have children or grandchildren or elders in our lives, we get concerned over things that are out of our control. We try to be patient, understanding, loving and turn to prayer. And then we snap!

Perhaps we hide the sting from others, burying it deep inside while telling ourselves that we need to be above our building anger or fear. We don't let it seep out and it takes its toll within us. Distortions in our mind lead to disruptions in our bodies, and the connection with the Divine snaps while we questionably scream, 'why'! 

It is when we break, allowing an outpour, that we can begin again. Perhaps nothing is resolved, but the misplaced energy of fright can now be used for renew. Recognize the time to start over and be careful not to use the same pieces when putting things back together. If need be, pause until a sense of self is regained. Then proceed.

Activating Opportunities to Love

"I use all situations as opportunities to prove

and celebrate the power of love."

Alan Cohen

When we are young, we tell ourselves that one day we will have all of the answers. We pursue education, mentorship and mastery. However, it is while we age that truth is revealed. We learn about life through living and surviving both ecstasy and chaos. It depends upon how much we invest and open to what is before us.

Throughout the day, we are offered endless opportunities to make a difference. It doesn't matter whether we respond with thought or deed. The importance is paying attention to what we have to offer and actually activating it. Each of us will have our own way, but when we reach out, our kindness gathers and collectively grows

There is so much love buried in the heart, but too often, it is dormant. When we begin to give it away, our heart awakens. We feel connected and love manifests. Send this love to the squirrel in the yard, give praise to the tree, and gently bend upon the knee. Beam your inner light so brightly that all things come together and heal.

 

 

To Thine Own Self ...

"Moving forward is one of the most important decisions

we can make in life, because it allows us to grow, learn

new lessons, have more energy, enjoying more peace, and

overcome our adversities."

Dr. Peter Nieman

As we color our life, perspectives change and situations shift. We become open to new relationships to stimulate our growth. This is not to say we no longer cherish that which was, but that we are ready to expand. We may be surprised by our longing to explore, finding new discoveries to enhance the life we are living.

One need is to be aware of the right to move beyond current situations without judgment or criticism. The divided emotions we may feel are a part of the growth experience. Moving on does not mean that current friends, teachers or mentors mean less nor does it mean they will no longer be treasured.

We may question our motivations as we travel farther and further. This, however, does not mean that we have acted in error. The process of removing blockages results in a flow of forward movement. Be honest with the self.  Contemplate, and trust what unfolds. Listen to what is unsaid and recognize hidden passages.

 

Ducks in a Row

"It is not enough to know thyself.

You must also be thyself."

Karen Whitten

At first glance, the ducks were in a row, until one veered off. How long would it be before the other ducks discovered this departure? Would they approve or ignore or wait for the wayward duck to return? How often did this happen and what caused it ... the wind or an undercurrent? Does the duck paddle harder or choose to just float?

From time to time, we all need to break rank even if just for a moment. Time is needed to be solitary to hear our own desire and the guidance from the Divine. Veering off course can encourage us to pay better attention, rather than navigating on automatic pilot. Are our intentions pure or generated out of obligation?

No matter our current age, the small voice within will always whisper, "Who am I, really?" In time we come to realize it is far more important how we treat the self and others rather than a long list of accomplishments. There is peace in life when we can be the same person no matter who we are with or where we go. 

Witness the Heart

"When someone else's gaze is upon you, they see

your outside, but only you can show them your inside."

Debbie Ford

When we mindfully create a safe space for others, they can reveal their heart's desire. It is as though a light is turned on within them. The tone of conversation grows more animated with words creatively crafted. There is a shift in energy as though a door has opened, allowing fresh air to come in.

Once viewed as dull, a person comes alive when they can unleash personal passion. The fire within is fueled through expression and words can become lofty, yet heated. Just observing, it is as though a tight bud is unfolding with sweet fragrance and vibrant color. Our attention lavishly waters the roots.

Instead of projecting assumptions, we can open to simple listening, as discovery is at hand.  With new eyes, we can see deeply carved layers inside of a person we once did not understand. It is not about aligning with a person's perspective, but the ability to witness the heart of one other human.