"BOO"!

"Be the light that helps others see it is what gives life its deepest significance."

Roy T. Bennett

Perhaps our first encounter with darkness is in the birth canal. Then for years afterwards, we do not have the vocabulary nor the knowledge to understand the shifting of light into darkness. For years. we are told not to be afraid of the dark. Yet, unexpectedly, someone jumps out of the darkness and screams, "BOO"! 

The first implication of power may come from the childhood song, "This Little Light of Mine." For some, it became a personal chant during questionable times. Then we graduate to the teachings of the light of Christ. We learned to entertain thoughts of hope while passing through numerous shades of darkness.

Consciousness of shifting from fearing darkness to exploring it, surfaces. We realize although fearsome, there is much to be learned. With each encounter, we learn to be a little less fearful and more anticipatory of its presence. We are all capable of wearing masks and deceptive clothing, and continue to startle when someone yells, "BOO"!

Step Aside

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

it's who is going to stop me."

Ayn Rand 

Eavesdropping on the two very young women in the next booth, I was impressed by their brainstorming on how they intended to succeed. Plans for education, job selection, and financial investments were appropriately listed on their maps for the future. I was tempted to tell them, however, that armor on the outside was not enough.

Our armory on the inside contains patience, determination, resistance, and calm. There are numerous tools that when applied, we come closer to our goals.  Integrity and trusting gut feelings, blend together just waiting inside. Being open to the unexpected, ditching conformity, and taking mishaps in stride, we are propelled forward.

Perhaps the developed ability to let go when needed allows us to maintain motion, trusting good things await just around the bend. Being aligned with our souls creates needed strength. There is no room for superficial pride when we are filled with humility, kindness, and courage. Let those in opposition, step aside.

Just Stop

"Wellness is the complete integration of body, mind, and spirit ...

the realization that everything we do, think, feel, and believe

affect our state of well-being."

Greg Anderson

A day to myself, what shall I do? In order to secure this private space, I had to rearrange family obligations, reschedule friends' expectations, and release self-imposed timelines. I forced a path through personal resistance and gave myself permission to allow a nurturing day to gently unfold.

It is curious as to why it is so difficult to carve out time for us, when we perform back flips and cartwheels for the needs of others. What does it cost to cuddle under a quilt, swaddled in an old sweats with a book and favorite hot mug of tea? It is not about money, but about choices we are willing to make.

We are resilient when it comes to being accountable to others, but what about to us? If we do not regenerate the self, our energetic response lessens. If we carve out time to nurture the self, we will be a better version of who we are intended to be. Just stop catering to others at the cost of your lovely self. 

Closing Circles

 

"It is always important to know when something had reached its end.

Closing circles, shutting doors, finishing chapters, it doesn't matter

what we call it, what matters is to leave the in the past 

those moments in life that are over."

Paulo Coelho 

It is uncomfortable when we begin to realize that something has run its course. Whether in a circle of friends, at work, or within the realm of family. We may know change is needed, buy we restrict ourselves by thinking perhaps we are being mean or selfish or quite simply wrong about our perceptions.

When we do not take action based upon our inner conflict, situations will increase in the negative. At times, it may feel as though we are pushed until we finally snap. This may lead to being pulled out of our innate nature and acting out of character. This alone is the incentive to follow through with peaceful and positive action.

If we acknowledge our inner feelings with compassion, it increases our chances for personal growth and new discovery. When we remember that we are forever changing, and needing new scenarios, it becomes easier to move forward. When we honor our inner observations, our actions will remain aligned with compassion and integrity.

Loneliness Falling to the Side

"Loneliness does not come from having no people around you,

but from being unable to communicate the things that seem important to you."

Carl Jung

Observing body language and listening to what is and what is not being said can be quite revealing. One couple has engaged with others in a lively conversation, except every time the woman starts to speak, the man shouts right over her. Across the room, a woman stops to chat with a friend while her significant other sighs deeply in annoyance.

And then there is the life of the party, laughing, flirting and sashaying around the room. If one looks closely enough, however, the dark loneliness lingering in her eyes is difficult to miss.  Her clothes may be flashy and jewelry beyond compare, but one can easily sense her depths of despair. 

Loneliness is the result of not exploring ways to nurture and meet our own needs. Time spent by our lovely selves is imperative to identifying what we want and how we feel. If we cultivate our personal discoveries and articulate them, we will thrive! When we have the courage to be seen and heard, loneliness falls to the side.

 

Tendencies and Traces

"We may not live in the past, but the past lives in us."

Samuel Pisar

If we have timelines of our ancestors, exploring their history may have significant information that can have baring on our present. Take a moment and consider personal tendencies. Where do such inclinations come from? Perhaps we were taught certain ways by our elders, but what if they are latent memories from other lives? 

Deja vu is described as recognizing something, even though you have never seen it before or experiencing something for the first time but recalling every detail that unfolds. While at a gathering, a stranger is encountered who immediately interacts with you as if a longtime friend. It is a situation where everything resonates without any basis for doing so.

As science continues to explore cells, the possibility of carrying traits from our mothers, ancestors or other realities exists.  Dreams can be very much the same, revealing aspects from the past or even the future. Start paying attention to what does not appear to make sense on the surface, and you may be surprised by what is revealed. 

 

Churning Waters

                                    "You can't see your reflection in churning waters.                                                                             Water must be still to see your reflection."                                                 Karen Hanrtze Susman

We tend to spend an absorbent amount of time adjusting and adapting when it would be more beneficial if we administered positive action. In order to decipher what is best for us, we must grow still and listen to what messages we hear. Our intimate wisdom can lead us more directly than documented resources.

Applying regulated formulas may work for a period of time, but if they are not personally aligned, the extent of correction will not last nor bring peace. We can experience heartfelt change if we stop enduring and pushing.  Being still to experience inner guidance can propel us forward in alignment with our body, mind, and soul.

When we are in discord, the waters are choppy and distort our perceptions. We need to believe in ourselves and discover what resonates within us. Then other resources can complement the plan. We have choice ... remain in a speed boat or slip into a canoe for calmer review. 

Forever Bound!

"Those who love deeply never grow old, 

they may die of old age,

but they die young."

Benjamin Franklin

At the end of time spent with a treasured friend, I commented on not wanting to attend large gatherings anymore. I continued, mentioning my new glasses and having an appointment with an ophthalmologist. I noticed tears in her beautiful blue eyes, and I wondered why. This dear soul is very compassionate, and yet ...

As my day unfolded, I found myself flashing back to this sister of my heart who is considerably younger. I replayed the conversation and listened through her ears, deciphering what she may have heard. Perhaps with compassion, she was realizing that I am aging and she was attempting to embrace what is inevitable.

As my life moves forward, I never think of my lovely self as being old. I am aware of my body aging, but my mind is as inquisitive as ever. There is no time to be morbid about death, especially when I believe this human suit will fade away, while my spirit will return to eternity. So sweet sister of mine, have no fear for we are forever bound!

 

Impacting Perspectives

"Do not go where the path may lead;

go instead where there is no path and leave a trail."

Ralph Waldo Emerson

My library card was a passport into strange and differing worlds. I would zip right past display tables with celebrated authors and head for the shelves. There seemed to be diverse books just waiting for me to discover. Subject matter was never mainstream and not particularly of interest to others.

Authentic minds behind the pen names, intrigued me. It was not as though I believed everything I read but enjoyed toying with the possibilities of truth. Funny now to remember slinking into occult sections in bookstores to discover wordsmiths exploring dreams, death and dying, and past lives. (New Age had not yet been coined.)

Subject matter is not so much about whether or not I believe it, but rather how the possibility impacts my perspectives. I long to stretch and grow through diverse reading. If I desire to criticize something, I want to be standing on a solid baseline. We are blessed with amazing minds, and until God tells me not to use it, I'm going to read, think, and scribble!

Darkness Fades

"You may not control all the events that happen to you,

but you can decide not to be reduced by them."

Maya Angelou

As the journey of life progresses, one finds themselves in the need to realign time, memories, and perceptions. We can glimpse into the past, recalling roads not taken, but our focus needs to be concentrated on what is yet to come. Gathering information from the past becomes blended with life experience and present day unfolding.

When time shifts there may be open spaces once filled with busy-ness. Openings occur to listen to birds singing, display our inner creativity, and choose to be in the presence of those who are very dear. When we have a clear sense of who we truly are, outside static reduces and life becomes more meaningful.

When we hold ourselves accountable for the choices we make, a sense of control unfolds. Not power over others, but strength to activate intentions. There are both physical and mental limitations but assisted by spiritual concepts we enter into perceptions of peaceful existence. Once we set our minds on the positive, darkness fades. 

 

"Time Is An Illusion"

"As an external power, we fully accept God but deny

the permeating presence within us."

Chris Griscom

"Time Is An Illusion" was written in 1986 by author Chris Griscom. She was a spiritual healer and taught energetic techniques. She encouraged readers to unblock personal paths preventing connection with our higher selves. She believed that all humans sustained an inner light connecting us to the Divine. 

If we were made in God's image, surely having an inner light is a direct link to higher beings. As communication is strengthened, we are able to explore other dimensions. Acknowledging God's presence, we are empowered to step out of restricted teachings. As we work deeper with light, we are able to identify and heal trauma.

When we accept that there is no separation between the Divine and our soul, outdated concepts dissipate. Through energy work, one can experience past lives and other dimensions. The concept of time being an illusion allows us to explore numerous scenarios of the past, present and future. 

 

 

Beyond Grief ...

"Grief is not a storm to wait out or a road to walk through."

Jones U Stephanie

Grief can be an everlasting sorrow with an unbearable sense of loss. It can be a thief in a rare moment of pleasure. When attempting to heal and move forward, we may even feel selfish. If our emotions begin to balance, we may feel shame for forgetting. To make matters worse, the intended help from others may fall short of our expectations.

The experience of living on this earth is unique to all. Each one of us loves, worships and expresses in authentic manners. We do not conform to uniformly dressing, eating or sleeping. Our choice in creative expression differs and reading is diverse. So why in the world do we expect ourselves to process emotions the same?

We may expect a timeline for healing which can cause pressure and anxiety. We can absorb wisdom from resources, but only a portion will be beneficial. We must travel at our own pace, consistently moving forward tending to our heart. Making healthy choices propel us forward towards a life the Divine wishes for us to live.

 

Configuring Issues

"When good befalls you be thankful,

and when harm befalls you ... be patient."

Hazrat Ali

It is said that how we experience early life subtly colors adult emotional landscapes. If we felt safe surrounded by kindness, our expectations might have been much the same. If we were raised in a dysfunctional home, we may have distorted trust issues. Either way, life is not fair, and our journey will be anything but smooth.

At a very young age, we are encouraged to join groups, participate in gatherings and create best friends. How different emotional growth would be if we were encouraged to be our own best friend. Imagine being praised for both character and skill, developing a strong sense of self. We would believe we could conquer the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Life throws curve balls and destinations can be dead end. The will to configure issues and venture into creative applications with perseverance, determines how well we address the mystery of life. With patience, we will see our way through. With a thankful heart, we will embrace the sacredness of others.

 

No Escape ...

"The fear and pain I feel daily about what is to come in this country,

and what is actually already here, makes me feel isolated and separate."

Anne Lamott

Not being politically inclined, I distance myself from social media reflecting the chaos in our world today. However, it has grown so outrageous, ignoring current situations is impossible. No longer is today about being a Republican or a Democrat. It is about being a human being.

As a degreed energy worker, sending positive vibrations out into the world allows me a sense of participation towards peace. I kindly engage with strangers and offer assistance whenever I can. I believe that both honor and respect are particles of love that needs to be available to every human being without any sense of criticism and judgment.

I cannot concentrate on reading. Focus on my journaling is dissipating. I decide to escape into a random movie with the gentle spirit of Harrison Ford. Crossing Over, however, is not about death and dying like I expected. The 2009 film portrays issues with immigration, prejudice, violence and ICE. There is no escaping ... my fear is real.

 

Selective Realities

"I'm just selective about the reality I accept."

Bill Watterson

Where we place our focus feeds our mind, body and soul. And it is not as though we can quickly change channels resulting in an immediate fix. Once we see, hear, or perceive information, it is immediately registered within us and often times buried, but still pulsing. Healing or reconditioning is a process.

As a baby, my son preferred carrots. I spooned this vegetable exclusively until I noticed his skin had an orange tinge ... what we eat impacts the body. I had an unpleasant experience with a dentist when in elementary school and throughout adulthood experienced panic approaching dental work ... repressed emotions can be impactful for years.

How we view and experience life is our reality, but not necessarily actuality. Our understanding is based upon our experiences, not specifically on proven fact. Even when we are proven wrong, we can be resistant. Life is experiential forever evolving. It is imperative to healing that we be flexible in perception and aware of changes in our reality.

Choosing Silence ...

 

"Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom."

Francis Bacon

There is a great need for us to express ourselves so that we may be heard and seen. As sensitive human beings, we are also aware if someone is actually listening to us or not. The level of his or her tone is an indicator of how seriously we are being regarded. If we choose to persist, we may be pulled out of our calm and into a rage.

We only have just so much energy, and it is imperative to know where we want to use it. With arguing, we lose sight of the point of a conversation, and it becomes about winning or being right. Perhaps our energy is best used in being silent or walking away. It may take courage, but integrity will remain intact. 

When we withdraw and enter silence, often times a deeper sense of understanding occurs. It is not about agreeing or disagreeing but perceiving a fresh perspective. In silence we can center ourselves and sort out priorities. In our hearts, we will know that we have not given up, but simply choosing to remain aligned with our higher self.

 

Touched Forever

"There is within each one of us a potential 

for goodness beyond our imagining."

Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Reading Elizabeth Kubler-Ross blows the windows of the mind wide open. Whether it is about how one perceives a current life or recall of other existences, she challenges the reader to step out of spoon-fed restrictions. She spent years interacting with children facing death and learning from their untainted minds.

Elizabeth Kubler-Ross sought the good in others and studied the connection between actions and consequences. She welcomed the light in children and helped each one of them to expand their body, mind, and soul. Gaining perspective from her work, personal views across the world became altered and elevated.

Investing her time in listening to the dreams of the young, enabled her to expand her own concepts about life and death. Focusing on the goodness within each of us, her work impacted the restricted concepts of loss and death. With great sorrow and numerous pauses in reading her work, she touched my life forever.

 

Relationships

"The most important ingredient we put into any relationship

is not what we say or what we do, but what we are."

Stephen Covey

Once the false derivative to stay small fades, we can discover deep roots leading down to our soul.  Through inner expeditions, we learn what is truth about our nature, intentions and limitations. To honor and respect our sense of self, we can then best create enhanced relationships with others.

If we desire to experience relationships fully there is a need to be open and free flowing. We must listen to ourselves, continuously updating thoughts and actions. There is comfort in knowing who we are and who we can yet become. Living is a process, and we must stay true to ourselves and choose our fellow travelers carefully. 

We must listen, evaluate, and translate actions and conversations when building relationships.  Although interests may be diverse, if our character and morals align, much can be shared. It is as though a feast can be made by what each brings to the table. Gather numerous chairs around, for it is through friendships that life abounds.

 

Message in the Woods

"True strength is not in having the last word ...

it is knowing when no word is needed."

Jon Burnham

There is an on-going argument in my head as I walk along this quiet path. I have conflict regarding when to hold my tongue or to speak my truth. I don't want to upset anyone, nor do I want to disturb my own peace of mind. Withdrawing into the shelter of nature, I wander hoping to uncover truth.

One side of me truly believes that what I think or hold to be true does not matter and needs not to be shared. Then immediately I feel confined and reduced in importance. Isn't this what freedom of speech is all about? Isn't this individual life I lead have a right to be fully explored and reflected?

Slowly placing one foot in front of the other, embracing the silence of the woods, I begin to hear birds and the rustling of small creatures. They are making themselves known and are not detracting from my peace. And this is my answer ... life is meant to be blended with others, each playing their own part. 

 

 

Exampling Honor

"If you think you can't, you're right."

Carol Bartz

We are determined to be selective. Social media stirs anxiety and fear, so we alter the amount of time we spend scrolling. Restricting subject matter through selected podcasts can still be unsettling. We even become careful in conversations, now skirting issues that would conflict or offend.

Unfortunately, peaceful living does not occur by total withdrawal. There is a need to hold ourselves accountable. Whether right or wrong, educated or uneducated, each of us has the right to our feelings and expectations. It is imperative to use our voice which sends our energy out into the world.

The key, perhaps, is to share positive perspectives benefiting human rights and safety in diversity. Together, we must find a way to co-exist. Such a basic concept and yet so very far from reality. Do not hide. Take peaceful steps forward exampling honor for all peoples, not just kindred spirits.

Those Eyes

"We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked,

and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved,

 and uncared for it the greatest poverty."

Mother Teresa

A homeless man sits on the city sidewalk, waiting for coins to drop into his cup. He is not begging for money, but his disheveled appearance makes his condition perfectly clear. His skin is covered with filth, but those eyes. There is something entirely engaging when one takes the time to intentionally gaze into those eyes. 

There were those who look straight ahead but keep an eye on him using peripheral vision as though he would attack at any moment. Others land a full gaze on him and then quickly jerk their head away. Then come the kind ones who acknowledge his presence with a smile or by politely placing money in his cup with respect. 

The circumstances that cast him to this space are unknown. Family or friends may not even know where he is or care. No one has any idea as to when he was last hugged or told that he made a difference. It costs absolutely nothing to look into his face and offer a tender smile. And those eyes ... what has he seen and endured.

Disruptions Enhance

"What we no longer know what to do,

we have come to our real work and

when we no longer know which way to go,

we have begun our real journey."

Wendell Berry

Life is not always timely or necessarily to our liking. Perhaps we had preferred things to unfold in a different stage of our life or when living at a different location. If we are not being our best self, meaning not having an awareness from a higher level, our energies might shift to negative emotions and resistance.

When there are enough years behind us to survey, we can see how an unexpected diversion stressing us out, led to a different perspective or a new approach to an old routine. Somewhere along the line, we began to view change as bad, and our emotions immediately started supporting that concept. 

In viewing flowers in nature, we see how beauty slowly unfolds. Each flower takes its time pushing upwards, forming a tight bud, and gently opening. Individually, they stretch to follow the sun and bravely weathers storms. We are expected to do the same. In truth, change may be disruptive, but it can enhance us on numerous levels.

 

Offer Silence

"Nothing is more important than empathy for another

human being's suffering. We have to feel for one 

and other if we're going to survive."

Audrey Hepburn

During a crisis, we worry too much about having the appropriate responses or means of support. The most helpful element is being present, allowing the person to know that they are not alone. We may not understand the situation completely or cannot relate to the given circumstances, but we can simply share our presence. 

Rather than conjuring up things to say, we can focus on stillness no matter how long it stretches. In silence, the other person can just 'be' with the circumstance and feel safe until resolution occurs. The best decision is his or her decision while we are simply the sounding board. 

There are random options as to how we can display our support and caring. Choose to invest and not avoid. Determine the best way we can assist and follow through. The basic need is being both seen and heard, and we are perfectly capable of doing that. Offer silence, as what we might choose to do quite possibly is not what they need to hear or do. 

 

Time Snatchers

"A purpose driven woman knows how to distinguish her assignment,

from that which is not hers."

Gift Gugu Mona

Throughout the day, time snatchers interrupt our intentions. Our well-planned day consistently shifts causing a change in time allotment.  If we run late or our presence is requested elsewhere, the element of time is disturbed. There are just so many hours in the day. Unfortunately, reserved time for the self is the hardest hit.

Grab some post it notes. On each piece of paper, leisurely jot down individual intentions such as read one chapter in a favorite book, sit outside for 15 minutes, connect with a friend, yoga stretches, or a quick gesture for the neighbor. Now place each one on the refrigerator where they can be seen. Remove only when completed.

We are successful and organized but devalue snippets of intention to ease us through our day. We may think of them, and just as quickly dismiss them. If we have them posted, we are more likely to include them throughout our busy day.  The quality of our actions will improve when we overrule the time snatchers.

Visualizing Dreams

"When you move toward a dream, it moves toward you."

The Universe 

Dreaming is not exclusive to the young of heart. It is not just for magical childhood imagination. It is for young and old alike. For instance, it is easy to recall Martin Luther King, Jr's quotes, "I have a dream ... " and later "I still have a dream." In spite of violence and disrespect of the highest degree, he never lost sight of his dream.

Granted, some dreams may be superficial, but we gain joyful pleasure in thinking about them. Our life flows when we have things to look forward to regardless of being unrealistic or a true possibility. Our minds can be such a jumble, anyway, so why not throw in some lofty thoughts intended for amusement.

Decades ago, Norman Vincent Peale wrote a book entitled, "The Power of Positive Thinking". His work reflected positive outcomes when people held specific dream scenarios, visiting them throughout the day while taking action within the visualization. Participants improved mentally, physically, and spiritually. Why not give it a try! 

 

Trial and Error

"Everyone needs some help learning who they already are.

That's the root of genuine education and the task of real culture."

Michael Meade

Throughout life, we encounter people who offer us insight into our motivations or actions. Comments can trigger our sense of self whether in a positive or negative way. They may come out of nowhere ... overheard conversation, passage in a book, or introspection. Whether or not we choose to listen is key to advancement.

We walk our path alone but continuously interact with others which challenges and reenforces. We require private time for personal growth, but outsiders are often our teachers. It is through this alternating pattern of private and community that we rediscover who we are and what is meant to be.

If we do not appreciate ourselves, then it is time for deep dives of exploration. There is no purpose in remaining stagnant, so reach out for stimulation. There can be a cycle of acquiring new insights, applying them, and presenting a new sense of self. The process is about trial and error and we do not achieve it alone.

 

Heart Centered

"There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up."

John Holmes

Children get angry with each other and may even become physical, but they seem to work things out and not hold grudges. They might not be easily influenced yet not set in their ways. They tend to have a fluidity about them that offers consideration, cooperation and peaceful ways. They tend to be heart centered. 

As adults, there are numerous opportunities to assist with family, neighbors and strangers. It is a matter of paying attention and risking involvement. We have choice as to whether to be closed for safety or open for connection. If we risk offering from our heart, the result uplifts all who are involved. 

As simple as a gentle smile while passing a stranger on the street can reset our mood. To tell a worker that his or her service is appreciated offers much needed recognition. No matter how a person presents, they have a heart that can be uplifted by sincere positive attention. The amazing thing is how it soothes the heart. 

 

Roots in Diversity

"In childhood, we press our nose to the pane, looking out. In memories of

childhood, we press our nose to the pane, looking in."

Robert Breault 

Recently, I attended a meeting exploring cultures. As I listened to others share experiences with other cultures through travel, I fell back into thoughts of my childhood. I was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, exposed to diversity in both religion and ethnicity. I was not an outsider looking in as differing ways were a part of city living.

My neighborhood included Jewish, Greek, Chinese, Irish, German, Polish and Hungarian families. Current appreciation for diverse food choices probably stems from earlier meals shared with neighbors. Attending a college prep academy, I was newly blessed with African American and Native American friends. College opened even more opportunities.

Although I lived in an apartment building until college, childhood memories are filled with playing outdoors ... bike riding, roller skating, sledding, hide and seek, hopscotch. I was never afraid while walking city blocks, riding city busses, or traveling on the subway. I believe all of this contributed to my cultural acceptance and respect. 

 

Peaceful Connection

"The soul, light as a feather, fluid as water, innocent as a child,

responds to every movement of grace like a floating balloon."

Jean-Pierre de Caussade

Life has requested us to be strong to face unexpected situations. It may have taken years to develop a certain level of strength allowing us to move forward safely. However, there is a need to counterbalance the brave soldier mode. It is mentally and physically harmful to remain rigid in high gear.

It is helpful to recapture savored mindsets experienced in childhood. There was a tendency to stay present in the moment, not dwelling on any essence of a future. Play, like swinging, initiated a sense of freedom and daydreaming encouraged peaceful connection. We were comfortable in stillness, not fearful, anxious and apprehensive. 

As strong adults, we can choose to create a childlike frame of mind to rest and restore. A safe space allows us to just 'be' without stress or expectation. To experience a sense of suspension, we can feel healed, peaceful, and connected with a tender scenario. This time of calm is greatly needed before we once again push to move on.