Nurture, Not Neglect

"Almost everything will work again, if you unplug 

it for a few minutes, including you."

Anne Lamont

If our car starts sputtering, we give it more gas. When our plants begin to wilt, we lovingly add water. When batteries run low, they are recharged. Common sense tells us that in order for things to work, they need to be tended to and if we desire a higher expectation, nurturing does the trick.

So why is it on a personal level, we procrastinate when it comes to self-care. We put off daily maintenance and reschedule appointments that would give us a boost. We falsely tell our lovely selves that some activities are too extravagant but will go overboard in spending to lift the spirits of others.

When we believe we are unworthy, consider that science proves that we perform better if we rest and restore. If we honestly desire to help others, then we must first help ourselves. Life is chaotic and time to feed the soul needs to be scheduled. The more we respect ourselves, the healthier, happier, and productive we become.

  

 

Presence Without A Name

"Presence doesn't make a grand entrance. 

It doesn't need the spotlight.

It doesn't always come with answers or certainty."

Gabby Jimenez

Darkness can be quite powerful. Fear can ramp up and spread like a wildfire or take on a frightful voice of criticism and judgment. Instead of mentally running, we need to discover the bits of silence waiting for our attention. There is a presence in our inner being offering a safe place to simply be.

When we are still, the presence becomes stronger, and our fears can be reduced to a manageable level.  A sense of calmness spreads across our body, mind and soul. We are no longer feeling alone or isolated. This presence does not have an agenda. It simply is holding space for us to feel safe and not be alone. 

Presence is not a specialized event. It is always available to us, just waiting to be noticed. If we quiet the mind, and reduce our fight or flight impulses, this is a natural safe space for us to return.  It is here where we can experience an array of emotions and still be respected and honored. This presence needs not a name.

 

Becoming Like Water ...

"When the world is on fire, be water."

Ullie Kaye

The fire began to singe my emotional stability. I applied a calming solution, but the burn continued to fester. I stepped back from all that burned, but smoke seemed to trail beside me. Vision was impaired and I began to feel not as sure footed. It was time to reach out to emergency services, also known as my trusted friend.

Together we sat listening to the water lap against the shore. We watched the sun drop, hoping it was symbolic for the fading of flames. There is wealth found in the silence shared between sisters of the heart. It can be defined as a safe space where all can be revealed without one word. 

Watching the gentle waves, we were reminded of calm motion and inner peace. Mesmerized by the flow, our sense of purpose returned. Water can take on numerous forms and utilized in diverse ways. So is true of positive emotions and spiritual insights. Message gently received ... go gently forward and quietly recede. 

 

Essence of Autumn

"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."

Albert Camus

Nothing can minimize the joy found in the presence of spring blossoms. After a long winter, the burst of color lifts the spirits with a promise of what is yet to come. Autumn leaves, however, have different coloring, and they hold us in the present moment, lingering. It is a time for reflection of what has already passed.

With evenings coming earlier and a chill filling the air, we can become more pensive. Life seems to settle in a little more closely and we have the tendency to wrap our emotions tightly around us. We can become reclusive which has its merits, but nurturing the body, mind, and soul needs to continue for balance.

To maintain alignment, adjust routines. Instead of eliminating outdoor time, bundle up and go for walks. In the absence of friendly gatherings, spend more time with a journal or other forms of artistic expression. Leaves are falling all around us. Glance down and discover a lonely leaf just waiting for us to carry it home!

 

Overlooked Asset

"The question isn't who is going to let me;

it's who is going to stop me."

Ayn Rand

We are living in a chaotic time, and our sense of control may be challenging us. We may not want to air our fears with others, especially when they are illusive and difficult to identify. We may question our own belief system which can cause unlevel ground. No longer sure footed, we may stumble and lose our way.

Let me remind you dear one, there is an asset that is being overlooked ... you. It really isn't about how much power you have, but how you are going to use the power at hand. What can you do right now, in this very moment to ease your tension? Being silent has its benefits, but not when it is doing irreparable damage to your spirit.

The pull to remain small is just that ... a pull. It does not have power over you unless you allow it. Define what you need in this moment and seek clarity about what can be done to obtain it. Nothing happens unless you begin. Do not wait for a time where all of the answers arrive as that time never really comes.

Elevating Vibrations

"Singing is the highest form of expressing oneself."

Kurt Vonnegut 

Science continues to verify the benefits of listening to music and singing which have been practiced since ancient history. Whether playing an instrument or chanting, the vibrations and expressions are said to be healing. Any instrument, whether guitar, piano or drum, generates the release of pent-up feelings. Singing does the same.

Whether singing with an opera or jamming with a favorite artist, our spirits are lifted. We feel better about ourselves, and our brain relaxes. Singing and dancing around the kitchen can be the very best of medicines. The musical experience, no matter what level, can ground us and release built up tension.

In a search of increasing spiritual practices, both music and chanting enhance meditative sessions. Combining breath intake with simple sounds, one can experience energy pulsing through the body and aligning with the soul. Hearts become free floating and repressed emotions escape allowing the sense of connection with the Divine.

 

Be A Light

"Be your own light.

Let your light be big.

Light grows when we share it."

Lessons from Harper Moyski

There is a small flicker of light inside all of us. The silence of the flame comforts us when we feel alone or afraid. As we learn how to navigate through darkness, our light expands and grows stronger exposing our needed course. At every opportunity, we can choose to turn inward to embrace our personal glow.

The vibrancy of our light is not only important to our expansion, but also an element of comfort to others. As we shine, they too can feel our warmth and may experience increased radiance of their own. If we share light together, frequencies increase and can impact the world around us. 

During the chaos of our time, we may experience a sense of helplessness. We may want to make a difference in the lives of those who suffer but have not yet found a resonating mode of assistance. We can choose to not only be a light for ourselves, but for others as well.  Kindle the inner flame, extending it out into the world. It will make a difference.

 

 

Season for Change

"As the days drift slowly into autumn, 

may we learn the art of letting go."

Spirit of a Hippie

Fall is my most favorite time of the year. I am intrigued by leaves changing colors, temperatures dropping and everything pumpkin and apple. There is nothing like an evening campfire whether mesmerized alone or reminiscing with trusted neighbors and friends. It is a peaceful time for me, clothed in flannel, boots and jeans. 

The atmosphere of autumn impacts my inner routines as well. I am drawn to lighting candles, for no reason at all. Settled in my favorite chair, wrapped in my old quilt, my hand moves with ease sharing thoughts across my journal's page. Perhaps it is the simmering pace of this season, that stimulates careful introspection. 

Just as the leaves turn colors and slowly fall from the trees, my thoughts take on the grace of gently letting go. As the leaves seemingly swirl and dance to the ground, I am encouraged to release that which matters no more. No need for anger or judgment, just a simple release chanting, "thank you, but no more". 

 

Weathering Storms

"Fleeting emotions are just one example of the things that happen

within us and part of our history but are not part of our identity."

Mark Rego

The storm came roaring out of nowhere. Drops of rain felt like pellets against my face. Quickly, I opened my umbrella and continued to brave the storm. An unexpected gust of wind then scattered my layers of protection. It was as though I now stood naked in the midst of a violent storm.

This storm of course is metaphorical, but nevertheless, penetrating. Is it of my choosing that I am witnessing an emotional storm?  Am I strategizing problems that are not mine? Perhaps, if I believe I can manipulate turbulence, I will have a sense of control. Private assessment needs to determine if my reactions are aligned with my soul.

It is important for me not to play out an outdated role. I must recognize glitches in a repetitive performance, rewriting a script that reflects current strengths and goals. Without judgment of others, I can claim what I need regardless of the status quo. Who I am today is a far cry from who I have been and who is yet to come.

 

Seeking Clarity ...

" All we need is the clarity to recognize the wholeness that is us."

Rod Stryker

Confusion may plague us when we are longing for clarity. We may sit in silence begging or praying for clear vision of what is before us. It doesn't matter if we are seeking coherence in the world or in our private domain. Either way, we must hold ourselves open with a quiet mind in order to learn what will bring us closer to our truth.

Although we may be seeking clarity in the midst of confusion or in search for better definition of life purpose, the message we receive may have content outside of our realm of current thinking. The unexpected download of information may crush our confidence and destabilize our current perception of existence.

Clarity is an aspect of life that may be unsettling, but at our core, we are strong and capable of unraveling any messages unveiled. Although incoming information may be startling, it is intended to broaden our perceptions and strengthen our core. Clarity is not necessarily the answer, but rather a new road map to understanding.

 

Bravery

"Bravery is the capacity to perform properly even when scared to death."

Omar N. Bradley

The ability to be brave is readily applied to those who face opposition physically even when his or her life is threatened. Those who face emotional threats are not that easily recognizable. If questioned, they may not even relate to the word brave., as they might be investing all of their energy into mentally running away.  

A person can stand before us in the midst of crisis appearing to be exceptionally brave, but in reality, their mind might be frozen in place. Similar to being in shock, fear holds us suspended disallowing reality to fully sink in. This form of avoidance gives us time to gather our strength while we hold danger at bay.

When repeatedly faced with dysfunction, a pattern of not dealing with reality can take form. While appearing to be amazingly brave on the outside, a person may be running away to some form of refuge on the inside. Dissociation or addictions may ease the discomfort of not feeling very brave, no matter how strong the appearance.

Equal, but Different ...

"We are all equal in the fact that we are all different."

C JoyBell C 

There is a difference between trying to fit in and wanting to be accepted. Fitting in requires us to change parts of the self, placing emphasis on other people's agendas. Wanting to be accepted is a desire to be both seen and heard. There ought to be an eagerness for all those involved to join in just as they are.

Whether walking through a department store or a nature preserve, we do not see repetitive singular designs with only one color. There is a variety of shades and hues. Much can be said about human beings. Body shapes, vocal pitches, and authentic characteristics are experienced in assorted varieties. How boring if they were all the same.

When expectations are sidelined and replaced by curiosity and openness, individuals experience freedom to be all they have dreamed of being. When both sides of our own persona, the light and the dark, are blended, a sense of harmony permeates our presence. Let's strive to create a greater sense of peace through harmony ... accepting one and all.

 

Kindling the Fire

"The mind is not a vessel to be filled,

but a fire to be kindled."

Plutarch

A burning desire needs to be gently fed by choosing diverse pieces of insight with intention. It is not about throwing unrelated thoughts into the flame but allowing a draft to circulate seemingly unrelated perspectives. The kindling will burn only for so long, but the coals hopefully will ignite us with energy needed to continue.

As the fire burns, there are times we scoot closer for heated stimulation, Sparks fly and ideas are endless.  We avoid the possibility of straying too far from the flames where ideas grow cold. We may even invite trusted others to gather around to share our visions with fresh projections of how to proceed.

A brilliantly hot fire can be mesmerizing. We can stare at it for hours lost in the burning flames. As darkness falls, and yes, it will, the fire can grow stronger. If we are deliberate with our choices as to how to feed it, it will continue in its intensity.  Just how long the fire will burn depends upon how we tend to it.   

 

 

Out of the Nest

"To be fully alive, fully human, and completely awake

is to be continually thrown out of the nest."

Pema Chodron

When does the awareness of being too cramped or painfully small set in? How long does it take to become brave enough to admit that we need to leave our comfort zone? If we peer outside of our safe space, fear wants to come flooding in. At some point, we remember that we are perfectly capable of making choices for heightened expansion.

Life is like a nest in that we are held as breakable eggs, incubating until we are ready to break out of our shell. We then discover a new life from a higher view. Time passes while curiosity and speculation nudge us to take flight from our once safe space, spreading our wings to claim freedom as the wind lifts us higher.

We need to believe in our lovely self in spite of past challenges. When security begins to fumble, it is time to stretch and grow. Bundled with faith and inquisitiveness, reach out towards new beginnings. Take flight from the nest even though it can be frightening, as the rewards outweigh the fright.

 

Engaging with Dreams

"Sometimes, even the strangest dreams have logical explanations."

Dr. Drerup

Whether we remember them or not, everyone dreams when they sleep. As we are not trained to remember them, like some cultures, we usually forget dreams by the time we wake up. We may have a very vague memory of our dream, or parts of it may resurface later in the day.  Dream scenarios can range from magical to horrific. 

When we study our dreams, creating a personal dictionary deepens our understanding. What an object represents to us, may have a totally different representation to someone else. The significance of a person, place, or object may be discovered in the symbolism, not in the face value. 

It is important to remember where we are in the dream. Are we in a public or private place and what are we doing? What emotions are we experiencing? It is curious to notice our age in the dream and who we are with. All of these answers contribute to understanding the message intended in our dream.  

 

Diverse Authors

"When you read a book, you hold another's mind in your hand."

James Burke

In third grade, I received my first library card. and I have been a card carrier ever since. Fiction was a long-standing escape from childhood and then later it provided me with endless diversity. College cultivated my non-fictional authors who nurtured my passion for understanding both myself and others. 

Eclectic authors captivated me, and soon I would create my very own library. Delving into my own writing practice, I needed resources at my fingertips. Books became dear friends and teachers who I could spend hours with. Subjects were endlessly reshaping and cultivating my body, mind, and spirit. 

While the local library meets my fictional needs, I tend to purchase non-fictional resources. This allows highlighting, writing in the margins, and freely revisiting savored phrases. Books become gurus readily at my fingertips. I am definitely a reflection of what I read, and this is why I entertain a multitude of diverse authors. 

Ordinary Beauty

"Anyone can love a rose, but it takes a lot to love a leaf.

It's ordinary to love the beautiful, but it's beautiful 

to love the ordinary."

MJ Korvan

It is unfortunate that we may believe we are lesser than based on not having a sense of perfection in our life. Too often, we notice and perhaps resent the fine eye of a friend who excels in artistic display. There is importance in reminding the self that "beauty is in the eye of the beholder".

Although we may have absolute respect for artists, creditability for our personal preferences needs to be respected. Finding intrigue in the ordinary excites the soul. Wonderment attracts us to what is normally unnoticed. When we allow life to slowly unfold, it is the little fragments that can enlighten us.

We can experience love viewing the morning mist or evening setting sun. Gazing into the face of a child or elder can instill deep levels of connection. The fragrance from freshly washed sheets or pumpkin muffins baking contribute to a beautiful day. Loving the ordinary in our days offers us a sense of stability and safety which inspires beauty.

 

Choosing to Hold Silence

"How can we support a person and love them

even if we do not accept their view of life."

Syed Sharukh

There was a shift in her behavior and even the tone of her voice was abrasive. I remember immediately wondering what was triggering her. Then she spoke down to me, seemingly with intention to belittle me.  I calmly responded in a respectful way. I was pleased that I had not absorbed her anger and gently accepted the present moment.

Later, as I stood in the darkness looking out across time and space, I could feel little shards of hurt jabbing at my heart. I reminded myself that others could not change who I was unless I allowed them to do so. I reminded myself that life was not always easily unfolding, even in the presence of friends.

My spiritual mindset was filled with reminders to be accepting and to hold silence instead of defensively lashing out in return. And yet, I could not remember what to do with my tears and pain. I turned to my journal and spewed words across the page. Once completed, I knew tomorrow would be another day providing time to begin again.

 

Let the Self Unfold

"May the joy of simple things color the canvas of your soul."

Nancy Womeldorff Calkins

As a child, drawing on the sidewalk with colored chalk was exciting while playing hide and seek was the ultimate. As an adult, we can fill empty spaces with the same element of entertainment. Afterall, we are referring to creative expression and discovery. Anything worth enjoying is worth the hunt.

Browse in a used bookstore and discover a topic never before explored. Visit a thrift store and choose a vase to be filled with lingering garden flowers. Then drop by the craft store and rediscover an old passion such as drawing, coloring, knitting, or jigsaw puzzles. Open to possibilities that will rekindle the spirit. 

There are a variety of simple pleasures waiting for us to discover. Watch a cooking show and make a treat to be shared with friends or neighbors. Dig out an old notebook and jot down things that once intrigued and renew the pursuit. And let us not forget the simplicity of nature. Fall is the perfect time to just let the self unfold.

 

No Exit

"True navigation begins in the human heart. It's the most important map of all."

Elizabeth Kapu'uwallani 

There is importance in maintaining a road map even when you have the tendency to veer off the designated highways. Avenues in our lives lead us to specific points of interest that sometimes bring us to dead ends. And then of course there are instances when we discover that we are innocently traveling on a fast lane to nowhere.

Our internal maps generally integrate, but when there is a spontaneous combustion of energetic ideas, it is impossible to predict where we are truly going. With the newly kindled fire, expanded vision and deeper understanding can overwhelm. We are called to eliminate old means of comprehension by replacing them with open minded exploration.

Currently, spiritual construction workers have given me free access to lanes of exceptional positive thinking. Evolved highwaymen are motioning me forward with a free pass to be escorted into higher concepts of peaceful living. I am this multi-purpose vehicle traveling at non-descriptive speed with no intention of exiting any time soon. 

Recognizing Patterns

"Identifying the pattern is awareness,

choosing not to repeat the cycle is growth."

Unify

Life is a process filled with numerous patterns that seemingly try to break us but ultimately strengthen our core. The same lesson continues to return until we master it and then often just one more time to make sure. It may even surprise us, dressed in different attire, but the same task to be taken by hand.

An old challenge recently returned to me, and I almost laughed out loud. Seriously, we're going to do this again. I proceeded carefully, knowing where not to tread. Then I became aware that in spite of knowing the amended steps, emotions were still prevalent creating chaos in my head. 

I had avoided negative actions but neglected to heal emotions. I still felt the sting from when things went wrong. Determined to end this cycle, I gently sat with myself embracing forgiveness with appreciation for who I am. Never do I want to stop learning and I know I'll always be emotional, but I promise to do the best that I can.

 

Flow Without Limitations

"Creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and consideration

for boundaries, can lead you to the path of personal happiness."

Nancy B. Urbach

Determine areas in your life where you are not able to flow between your inner and outer self. What people are you most uncomfortable with and where are you most capable of relaxing into your authentic self? Answering these questions will bolster your energy and assist you in reaching new goals without limitations.

You must be aware of your inner desires and your outer obstacles. When you give careful consideration as to how you can align diverse characteristics, life begins to flow. Sustaining the ability to weave in and out of expectations with fluid transitions, possibilities of reaching your carefully envisioned goals heightens.

As you are challenged, there is an opportunity to reevaluate plans to move forward. When you are open to altering original plans, a higher elevation of procedure can appear. Enjoying every step of progression creates personal happiness in each day. Taking frequent pauses to assess respect for the self and others raises levels of cooperation.

 

Walking Away ...

"If you are brave enough to say goodbye 

life will reward you

with a new hello."

Paulo Coelho

Walking away can be challenging, especially when we are not yet ready to part. Even when we feel completion, facing a new beginning may not yet be the way we want to go. Whether it is a completion of a season or a relationship, resistance to change can be overpowering. It becomes imperative to not look back.

When we shift our thoughts to positive thinking, our belly stops churning and our head ceases to pound. If we no longer face the future with dread, but with an adventurous spirit, numerous possibilities unfold. It is best if we open ourselves without definitive expectations. 

Life is surely a cycle of change with which we have very little control. And even if choices are not ideal, we still have a certain level of control. This is not the first ending and beginning, and it will not be the last. Believe in the goodness that awaits, as we will not only survive but thrive.

 

Chance or Intentional

"The spiritual energy of the full moon provides a unique opportunity for

connection, introspection, and growth. Embrace this time to express

gratitude, engage in self-reflection, and release negative emotions."

Author Unknown

Just as the pull of the moon impacts waves in the ocean, it stirs our vibrations as well. It is as though our energies are being churned, creating havoc demanding our undivided attention. It calls to us for clarity and positive action. Upon release, we create room for new beginnings and deeper meanings.

What is it that we still cling to, in spite of numerous hints that it is never going to align? Are we ignoring what the universe continuously presents before us as a dead-end?  Rather than investing our energy into avoidance and denial, we can more aptly apply it with courage to move forward into what is the unknown.

Perhaps it is the fullness of the moon that amplifies our vision. It is a productive time to replace our fears and hesitancies with curiosity and speculation. Push forward starting anew with a sense of adventure. Be open to possibilities and pay attention to synchronicities. Do things simply happen by chance or are they quite intentional?

Investigating Dreams

"Sleep is the best meditation."

Dalai Lama

Messages are available to you throughout the day if you are aware of your surroundings. Information appears to you in your dreams just as readily. When you create a personal dream dictionary, nighttime presents drama, laughter, and sometimes fear. If attention is given to the symbolism of people, places and things, your understanding expands.

For instance, if your dream takes place in a house, each room has significant meaning. If you are outdoors, every animal symbolizes something. The people in your dream hold particular meaning as well. The action you are taking in the dream has particular meaning as well. The definitions you have, may not be the same for others.

If you happen to remember fragments of your dream, jot them down even if they do not make any sense. The more you recall your nighttime escapades, definitions come quite naturally. Dream recall is like anything else ... the more you investigate, the more you will learn.

 

Solitary Time

"The deeper the wound, the more private the pain."

Isabel Allende

When disruption arrives, there is nothing like a trusted friend. We know our conversation will be safe without judgement. They will assist in sorting through the challenge even if by silently listening. There are, however, moments where we need to hold our own space and digest what has happened.

When chaos hits, we are never really prepared. We can feel broadsided and totally incapable of mulling through the debris. The support of others is vitally important but so is solitary time to discern what is truly in our heart. Once we have a sense of knowing our own heart, we can then proceed forward with assistance.

When well-meaning people have gathered around us, we may feel claustrophobic and over-whelmed. We must choose to use our voice and ask for private space. Just removing the self for a few minutes can allow our body, mind, and spirit to adjust to the ramping energies. We can avoid some elements of overload by simply paying attention to what we need.

 

Not Just One Thing

"Let your heart guide you ... it whispers so listen closely."

Walt Disney

As we learn that Divine Spirit desires to interact with us, an openness to messages increases our chances to learn and expand. God wants us to increase our experiences whether we use angels, prayer, nature or meditation. The method we incorporate into our life is less important than the actual guidance.

When we become aware of the symbols surrounding us, communication strengthens. Whether it is a red cardinal suddenly singing on your windowsill or a favorite song spontaneously streaming, make the connection. Thank the bird for presenting itself and thank those guiding us for sending the lyrical message.  

If we consider the possibility of spirit constantly hovering around us, we no longer feel as alone. When we accept the positive energy surrounding us, confidence and personal power expand. We are not just one thing. We are part of an eternal spiritual community experiencing human form. It is time to recognize all that you are!

Reclaiming the Self

"A good friend allows you a safe space to share your deepest

thoughts and needs ... without worry of being judged."

Jennifer Youngs

Where is your safe space and how often do you visit it?  Do you create a sanctuary in your home with music and candles, or do you use visualization or meditation?  How much time do you dedicate to this needed privacy? Do you minimize the importance of having a time out or do you respect your needs?

The intention to 'carry' your load alone is unhealthy. You need an outlet to release pent up fears or repressed experiences. When you use designated quiet time to release heavy energy, you improve the quality of emotional, physical and spiritual living. When space for contemplation is provided, a sense of control returns.

Take time to evaluate the perceptions you hold in your mind. Think through them and then allow yourself time for further exploration. Whether choosing a trusted friend, a therapist, or a favorite meditative state, you will reclaim a stronger sense of who you long to be. With a new sense of hope, you will move forward with greater confidence.

 

In the Clouds

“Clouds come floating into my life, no longer to carry rain or usher storm,

but to add color to my sunset sky.”

Rabindranath Tagore

Looking up into the sky has been a treasured habit of mine. I gaze up to appreciate the massive artistic pallet where the Universe has used a delicate brush with gentle strokes. With ease, the clouds shift in formation, pleasing the eye. Then there are times troublesome dark clouds rumble across the sky, seemingly a foreboding of things yet to come.

Patterns continuously form shapes like animals, angels, or objects meant only for my eyes. I can ask a question and then patiently wait for an answer to appear in the sky. I am amazed by the example of how clouds can be severely congested, break apart and then regroup yet again. And is this not just like life?

I wonder if the birds would agree with me that there is great comfort in the freedom of floating in the clouds. And I am curious if these canopies of white fluff feel joy as they enter into sun filled horizons.  Maybe the clouds are a transport for peace being sent out into the world or even portals waiting for entry. 

 

Inner Brilliance Waiting

"We have to find the part of us that doesn't know what to say ...

and that's the part that will speak ... "
David Whyte

We become distracted by placing time and energy into projects that either never come to completion or never tend to take on meaning for further development. Perhaps redundancy stifles our creative spirit. Giving excessive time to what we have preconceived may take away from the brilliance waiting to be exposed.

Bursts of inspiration rarely come when we are overthinking. We may be under stimulated by things we already know. Often, it is in the stillness of the unknown that creativity speaks. Our insights need space to grow with a dash of fresh air. There is a way of unpacking the mind so creativity can breathe.

Our drive to make something better may be a distraction. Maybe we just need to let certain things be and accept a state of completion. If our mind is jammed with creative thought, our progress may be impeded. There is an inner brilliance within just waiting to be expressed, if we just give it birth to be born.