Avoid the Straight Line

"The shortest distance between two points is often unbearable."

Peter M Senge

As children, we are expected to walk a straight line, even though our nature is to wander. A child yearns to run and play, not watch one foot carefully placed in front of one other. We learn of consequences and our creativity is diffused by the distraction of regulations. Then of course there is the fear of punish

ment. 

By high school we learn to branch out a little and willingly take risks for pranks. The praise of comrades is greater than the parental scorn. Come college, many paths are formed. There is always a risk, but what of the reward?  There is textbook learning, and then the lessons taught by life itself.

Freedom is experienced when coloring outside of the lines. Creativity is heightened when blending colors that do not theoretically mix. To think outside of the box enhances our ability to discover diversity. Find a labyrinth either mental or physical and enjoy the expansion bringing both challenge and joy!

 

Frivolous Play

"Never, ever, confuse listening with agreement."

Diane Musho Hamilton

Sitting at the table, I first believed I had misheard what was said. Then I started following the conversation a bit more closely, and there were statements being made that made my heart cringe. Surely these people were joking! I felt frozen in place, hoping my horror was not written all over my face.

Witnessing my words angerly lining up in my brain, I literally bit my tongue so that I would not speak. Being controversial would not change these crazy beliefs. I chose to maintain eye contact but glanced at others as well. My guide within said, "Choose your battles wisely, and this is not one."

There was a time I would have thought being still would be disrespectful to myself. I had spent too many years being silenced! However, I now realized that I could learn from this conversation without exchange. Eventually, I discreetly excused myself and decompressed at the kids table with frivolous play!

Bestow Joy

 

"I want to thank you for the profound joy

I've had in the thought of you."

Rosie Alison

Emotional pressure from Thanksgiving may have been released but begins to build again today as many thrust themselves into Christmas preparation. Days lay in wait for our choosing as to how to fill them. I choose to dig into recollections of those who are still present or have come and gone, bringing elements of beauty and joy.

My college roommate was an independent, highly driven and successful woman, setting an example for me. A mentor displayed how to live a spiritual life, not hide it behind closed doors. Then a sister of my heart taught me to laugh from the belly discovering levity in any situation. All three have crossed over but continue to be held in my heart. 

Little triggers bring friends from the past into the present. They were bridges supporting my journey forward. Currently, there are the creative souls who inspire me to hone my skill. I am challenged by some, but with patience I try to unravel cause and effect. I am blessed to have these humans in my life as they bestow joy.

 

New Things Begin ...

"Thankfulness is an art ... practice it until your soul

recognizes beauty in everything."

Unknown

Thanksgiving celebrations may shift from year to year based on mobility, opportunity, and connection. Traditional family gatherings may be a past memory, but there are plenty of reasons to create new celebrations. Whether one gathers with neighbors or volunteers at a local mission, it is our focus that sets the mood.

Do we choose to hold thoughts of unhappiness or revitalize snippets of happy moments? When we link small glimmers together, our scenario of gratitude expands. If we use our skills, we can produce small items for sharing with others. It is in the giving that one experiences joy.

The key to celebrating Thanksgiving is seeing beauty no matter how big or small. Do not sit with sadness weighing down the soul. Recall blessings from the past, difficult lessons learned, and the benefits of not giving up. Experience a sense of courage building in preparation for new things to begin.

Truth Becomes Reality

"You never find yourself until you face the truth."

Pearl Bailey

The truth of the matter is we have agreed to do something that is not in alignment with our true self. Maybe we don't want to hurt someone's feelings or fear making someone mad, and so we violate ourselves instead. We convince ourselves that we can make this sacrifice. minimizing the lack of respect for the self.

There is a need to embrace our truth whether we act upon it or not. There needs to be an awareness of what it is, how it feels, and how it alters our movement. How does our inner truth substantiate our presence? When personal truth is known, we may take pause prior to sharing or impacting others.

Especially when we are settled into a particular life pattern, just the thought of change can be overwhelming. If we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and manage to be open to experience, we move truth from being buried to consciousness. With slow entry, we bring our truth into our existence, honoring our body, mind, and soul.

Centered Choices

 "Writing sets things straight, 

giving us a sense of our true priorities."

Julia Cameron

Thanksgiving has yet to arrive, and yet, there are Christmas decorations everywhere. As we face the holidays, numerous triggers activate emotions. There may be a family elder absent this year, an adult child not coming home for the first time or life circumstances keeping us alone. Anxiety begins to stir in various parts of the body.

Writing is a way of using our voice, especially when we do not want others to hear our anger, sorrow or frustration. Words can be splayed across the page without need for editing or censorship. As emotions flow, we may be surprised at the truth being uncovered and displayed. 

When we express ourselves upon the page, it can be saved, discarded or even burned. It is a safe space where we can articulate how something is unfolding and conversely, how we would rather it be. Released negative energy assists us in becoming centered, resulting in healthier choices 

 

 

Open a Window!

 

"The measure of intelligence is the ability to change."

Albert Einstein

Please, open the window and let fresh air come in! The inside heat is not helping with the building anxiety. Without any options to create a healthy scenario, falling to natural instincts can help sustain personal strength. Recognize growing discomfort and actualize the need to address whatever it is that is not going away, either physically or mentally.

When we throw open a window and breathe in the crisp air, a sense of calm begins to penetrate. The tiny impact of change encourages us to shift both our thoughts and actions. Breathe in, expand, and slowly let go of whatever hangs heavily in the heart. Fresh air encourages new thoughts and hope for fresh beginnings.

It is imperative to step through situations that stun us. In making a choice for action, we propel forward by increments. Simple movement encourages us to begin again with hope for corrective improvement. In times where no available solution can be applied, choose a peaceful action in honor of what had gone wrong. Indirect actions help to heal and bring peace back into the world.

Sextortion

"I've hidden memories in boxes inside my head before.

Sometimes it's the only way to deal with things."

Alice Feeney

Recently, I read of a high school boy who took his life. Reportedly, he had wonderful parents, lots of friends, great sense of humor, and excelled at school. The community was stunned as there was no apparent reason for this loss. The police had kept his phone and therein was the explanation for this tragedy.

It is called Sextortion. Someone posed as a 17 year old local girl who thoroughly knew all about him, his family and his friends. She led him to believe and trust their connection. Inappropriate pictures were sent to him and requested him to share as well. He then was blackmailed: pay $500 or be publicly exposed to your community. These professional extortionists shamed this innocent young man. 

The FBI is currently exploring this nationwide problem. Parents have come forward to heighten awareness in spite of their horrific pain. The circumstances of this senseless death will not leave me. I want to honor this family for coming forward so their son had not died in vain.  I have safely placed this information in my private space so I will never forget to pray for these innocent children, the impacted families and all who loved them.

Hoodwinked!

"Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those

be well tried before you give them your confidence."

George Washington

Sifting through perspectives with our eyes open, we frequently see what we want to see. We falsely believe that others have standards just like our own. Then, at personal cost, we learn nothing is necessarily the same. When we find ourselves hoodwinked, the tears will fall as we did not see this coming, at all.

We maintain certain values, speaking our truth which is then followed by honest action. We want to trust those around us, believing they have our best interest in mind. We may feel an instant attraction with a compulsion to share. It may take seconds, days or years before we learn the fatal truth of how we had been deceived.

We cannot change others, and do not want to lose faith in those who associate with us. We can, however, be more careful with disclosing too much too soon. Notice if they are critical of mutual friends or freely share private information belonging to others. How they treat others will be exactly how they treat us.

Unexpected Release

"Each trapped emotion resides in a specific location in the body."

Bradley Nelson

All of us knew she was suffering. Individually, we offered to meet with her, but she drew deeper within. Food was brought with well-intentioned books. Flowers were left on her doorstep, respecting her need for privacy. Talk therapy and journaling were in place. As loving sisters, we held her in our heart.

She asked for us to gather to do yoga and of course we all complied. We spread our mats out and then began our simple routine. As our energy was building, we silently covered her with love, light, and prayers. It wasn't long before she burst into tears. We created a circle around her, offering safe space she desperately needed. 

It is not unusual for a person in the midst of a massage, energy work or meditative practice, to experience a release. The body stores trauma and physical touch, or movement can trigger an emotional reaction. Healing is a process with numerous options leading towards recovery. Utilize what resonates, leading towards personal resolution. 

Beautiful Layers

"Beauty is not in the face;

beauty is a light in the heart."

Unknown 

At a very early age, we are taught that our body suit needs to be covered at all times as though there was something needed to be hidden. Then we begin to think that others can see right through us, so we begin to additional covers. As one grows older, we begin to fear being stripped of our layers and exposed  

No matter how we cover our body, true beauty is found in our authentic essence. There may be appreciation as to how we present, but the depth of our character outweighs external dressings. Instead of focusing on being just one particular way, there is advantage to being comfortably blended into diverse situations.

We are multi-faceted with a broad range of emotions. If we remain aligned with our heart's desire and feed our souls with integrity and compassion, we will shine. With ease, we can sort through our beautiful layers, adding and subtracting for clarity and precision. Raising vibrations, our radiance grows.

 

Honor in Giving

"No person was ever honored for what he received.

Honor has been the reward for what he gave."

Calvin Coolidge

At a very young age, I was introduced to Native American Culture and found myself to be instantly captivated. I watched how everyone seemed to honor all of nature and exhibited the same respect towards each other. Movement was slow until the dancing and drumming took place. Traditional dress and ceremonies resonated in my soul.

In the midst of a tribe, there seemed to be genuine acceptance with diverse opportunities to express oneself.  Young children were encouraged to share and women expressed themselves freely through ritual and artistic craft. Young men were individually encouraged and supported. And the elders, what kind old souls.

In Native American Culture, each member of a tribe found a special skill to be used for the good of each other, nature and spirits. Eyes were to the heavens, not on greedy schemes to pontificate one's ego. It is not surprising that the Spanish Conquistadors taught tribes how to scalp.  Such damage to the original peaceful people and their country. 

 

Gnarly ...

"Gnarly burls and misshapen limbs speak of injuries and obstacles

encountered through time and overcome."

Peter Levine

When a tree is damaged, the wounds heal as they are covered over by new growth. The misshapen limbs reflect these injuries. Upon close inspection, one notices the irregularities in both root and bark formations. Trunk, twigs, and branches all contribute to the unique presence wherever they happen to grow.

Life does not protect us from our wounding. We all carry scars whether upon our skin or heart. Physically, they may heal reasonably fast, but emotionally, restoration may take unlimited or recurring time. Through spiritual beliefs, we eventually view our injuries as lessons that contribute to our uniqueness. 

The image of a tree can be encouraging as it displays a sturdiness, in spite of damages from the human hand or harshness of nature. We can begin to appreciate individualized character and endless beauty. Trees pass through seasons of life, just as we do. It is through this process that we learn to embrace our personal beauty. 

Positive Expectations

 “It is always important to know when something

has reached its end.”

Paulo Coelho

The beautiful leaves are slipping away with the autumn wind spiraling their descent. There have been warmer temperatures extending hope that winter will be delayed. Magical colors have danced in the nighttime sky as we continue to adjust to time changes and darkness falling earlier in the day. There will be a loss when children can no longer be heard at play.

Winter cannot be diverted no matter how hard we try. Things run their course and at some point, reality sinks in. Shifting from one season to another, we move through a process engaging us physically, mentally, and spiritually. 

Hang On!

"You can do amazing things if you have strong faith,

deep desire, and just hang in there."

Norman Vincent Peale

Shuffling through the leaves that have fallen, I wonder of their fate. Does their energy go on to something new or is this simply it? Glancing upwards, two leaves cling to a branch. Now what do they know that the others didn't? Are they brave or are they in denial of their fate? I walk on thinking, "At least they are together."

Even with solid friendships to be trusted with our inner chaos, fears can rush us. How long can we hold out? When is enough, enough? If we are blessed to hear even one small voice that encourages us to hang on, perhaps we can endure the winds of time. When we allow one other to witness our state, we just might become stronger.

And who is this one other that witnesses our peril? It can be our soul mate, priest, or local waiter at the neighboring cafe. Sometimes it is a total stranger we 'accidently' meet that offers insights that fill us with hope. And as we hang in there, perhaps the branch will keep us together and not let us fall, after all.   

Guts and Stardust

"Friend, you are a divine mingle-mangle of guts and stardust.

Frank Capra 

It is too easy to forget who we are when feeling overwhelmed by life. We think to ourselves, 'If I had made other choices, this would not have happened.' But of course, this may not be true. If we had done things differently, the exact same lesson still would have arrived, just presenting differently.

When we maintain a consistent relationship with whomever we deem holy, our strengths will be more readily available. There is not the intense feeling of helplessness when Spirit reminds us of our true nature. We have faced adversity before and it will come again, but each time we can use both our skills and inner spirit to appropriately react.

We can learn to move through life supplied with both wisdom and light. Our physical presence on the earth requires determination but can be accompanied with gentle magic. It is not an either or situation. We are spiritual beings in human suits filled with 'a divine mingle of guts and stardust."

Gold At Both Ends

"Dare to love yourself as if you were a rainbow

with gold at both ends."

Aberjhani

We have choice in viewing our life as an evolution or as a revolution. We can unfold with gentle curiosity or attack with aggravation. Situations can be viewed as a lesson or a threat. We can lovingly embrace our progress or critically judge our actions. The choice is ours to make. 

If we place blame on others, we do not hold ourselves accountable. If we own the problem, our positive response will advance us which is not necessarily true if we are in denial and simply retaliate.  When we listen to our inner self, identify behaviors distracting us, and seek to improve, life moves forward.

When glancing at our past, we need to have compassion for the depth of our struggles without chastising what we did or did not do. Focus on the strengths and lessons learned. Be proud of the resilience that has propelled us forward. Recognize the evolution of life as though we were a rainbow with gold at both ends.

Running Away ...

"Emotional pain cannot kill you, but running from it can."

Vironika Tugaleva 

Distracting ourselves from what is painful may appear as the best choice. We push forward without adjusting to disruption. This may feel like comfort initially, but what we avoid incubates within us. The pain does not subside when repressed. It can fester and become more of a wildfire than its original spark.

When we are faced with the unthinkable or overwhelmed by fears coming true, action can become helpful as long as it is not avoidance. Releasing our pain is part of the healing process. In a positive manner, rather than running away emotionally, we can paint, sing, meditate or simply get out in nature.

Running away is a subtle choice to ignore reality. If we do not feel capable of handling our emotions, we escape through denial. This is not about ruminating or being stuck. This is looking the other way as though it never happened. As we push it down, our emotional makeup impacts our physical well-being, creating illness. 

Wonder ...

"Wonder is the beginning of wisdom."

Socrates

Curiosity is an important tool. It helps us explore things when we find ourselves wondering about people, places or things. Instead of being simply entertained, we can dig a little deeper to understand what is creating our impromptu feelings and thoughts. We can wonder what the connection is between the past experience and now.

When we notice we are feeling slightly off, do we take the time to figure out why? Do we explore what is creating our mood or can we pinpoint the trigger? Can we discern the message our body, mind or spirit is trying to deliver? Whether it is a feeling of fear or joy, what wisdom might unfold if explored?

Information can be retrieved from retreats and trainings but let us not overlook the random pieces of insight sprinkled throughout our day. Each tidbit, seemingly insignificant, can teach us about our lovely selves which heightens personal power. Explore every nook and cranny and be proud of your authenticity!

Soldiers in the Present

 

"We should take this opportunity to re-evaluate how we are treating

our veterans in the present."

Nick Lampson

Soldiers will be honored today, but are basic needs being met? There will be great spending for parades and celebrations, but what about food for his or her families? Monuments will be erected, but where is the funding for appropriate healthcare? Once a soldier, life is altered for the remainder of life.

Veterans stand before us, but we do not see the depth of war upon hearts, minds, and souls. The struggles after serving can be greater than the chaos and devastation experienced in combat. How extent is the support, both mental and physical, when one exits war? The families left behind are rarely prepared for the returning soldier.

When we praise a soldier for bravery, he or she buries deep personal fears and horrific nightmares. Our expectations of a returning soldier to be a superhero adds pressure to perform in ways they are not ready for.  So rather than praise today, grasp the soldier's hand, look into the eyes and tenderly give thanks.

Contract and Expand

 

"For many artists the universe is expanding,

for some it is contracting."

Robert Smithson

When turbulence occurs, we want to hold ourselves accountable. We think if we had acted differently or commented less, the result would have been different. In our personal fear, we attempt to hold ourselves accountable. This offers us a false sense of control giving us hope that we can change circumstances.

When we cave in on ourselves, we become ego driven, our world grows dark, and we lose the sense of connection. Conversely, if we do not singularly own the problem, and look outside of ourselves, there is expansion and connection with others. It is as though we allow light to come in for correction.

If we utilize a spiritual practice, whether we are contracting or expanding, confidence and clarity flows. We do not feel as though we are facing our challenges by ourselves. Embracing the lesson and experiencing personal growth, the process of contraction and expansion propel us forward. 

Warrior Heart

"They gave you chaos, and you turned it into clarity."

Rose Zabelle

Each and every one of us has a warrior heart. It may be cloaked or buried, but it is there and always will be. A warrior heart may be silent or raging as every situation calls for something different. As life unfolds, the warrior heart is present for all peoples and for chosen battles. The simple presence of the warrior heart alters chaos.

To have a warrior heart means that we hold ourselves accountable. We will be strong if chaos prevails, but gentle when life fails. We do not fall asleep when life gets difficult, we stay the course, willing to change and grow. It calls for us to use our persistence when needed or mindfully abstain.

Whether we protect our family or a business or a set of ideals, there are times we are called to action. Our contribution may be extended in silence or visually activated. A warrior's heart has boundaries, and it is best not to cross them. The warrior's heart does not have a sword for protection but look out for their passion and drive.

 

Absorb the Beauty

"If you keep searching for everything beautiful in this world,

you will eventually become it."

Katie Kamara

It takes just as much energy to seek beauty as it does to focus on imperfection. I am not talking about the way we physically present with fancy hair styles, fashion and wealth. The reference is to the beauty of the human soul. Rather than being threatened by differences, what if we entertained new possibilities.

Walking during this fall season, we notice the beauty in each tree, but do we notice the uniqueness in each individual passing by? As we gently place our feet upon Mother Earth. we can look for recognition in others. Perhaps we will see a bounce in someone's step or a light shining from his or her eyes. 

When we absorb the beauty beaming from others, our inner perspectives are uplifted. We are reminded of the goodness in the world, and we not only yearn for it, but we also become part of it. If we hold ourselves accountable for contributing our personal definition of light or goodness out towards other, all will shine. 

 

Reflection in the Window

"The spirit of the individual is determined by his dominating thought habits."

Bruce Lee

The man lingered in front of the store window and passersby speculated about what he was looking. He was not viewing jewelry or clothes. He had caught sight of his reflection in the glass and was stunned at what he saw. He had been on such a hot run chasing after end result, he had lost all sense of who he was in the moment.

We cram our minds by overthinking which can lead us farther away from our truth. Our thought patterns can paralyze us, preventing forward movement. What we whisper to ourselves is not necessarily accurate, so we can be lead astray. Rumi says, "If all you can do is crawl, start crawling." 

It is said that the hardest part is starting. Taking the first step tends to be delayed which is procrastination at its best. No matter what challenge we face, either exciting or dreadful, moving forward generates progress. If we trust that we will find our way and deal with whatever the outcome may be, life provides new growth and prosperity. 

Invitation ...

"Logic will get you from A to B.

Imagination will take you everywhere."
Albert Einstein 

Next to my imaginative meeting with Jesus and George Carlin, I would also invite Albert Einstein. The invitation would be for breakfast in hopes of the conversation running throughout the day. There would be such diversity, but I do believe there would be a subtle alignment. These would be individualistic personalities, and yet, so much the same.

If things went well, I would encourage another meeting, but this time include Hafiz, Frieda Kahlo, and Elizabeth Kubler Ross. Can you imagine the conversations that would unfold? No subjects would be declined, as these great minds could puzzle most anything out. Just think of the subject matter!

Reading this, one may think I am trying to be humorous, but I am sincere. Deep conversations with historical, psychological and scientific accents would unfold, to say nothing of death and resurrection.  The invitation would be extended to you, too, of course. Isn't imagine grand!

 

Imperfections

"Be different so that people can see you clearly amongst the crowds."

Mehmet Murat idan 

As the full moon moves across the sky, we are reminded that life is a process. There is a need to steady the course, floating in and out of shadows. Our patterns can be repetitive including both joy and sorrow. Each experience offers diverse choices for us to choose from while producing differing results.

As we step out of dark shadows, light shines on clarity. We begin to understand that what we once thought were imperfections can actually be highly valued skills. If we dare to stand strong, creatively making application, we will find ourselves making a difference while feeling empowered.

If we embrace ourselves and work towards personal growth, all aspects of life can be impacted. As we continue to expand with inclusion of others, we are no longer traveling alone. We discover like-minded people, establishing a sense of belonging and community.  Let's all be different together! 

 

Element Out of Control

"May the wind carry her spirit gently. May the fire release her soul.

May the water cleanse her. May the earth receive her."

Starhawk

There are four symbolic elements: earth, air, fire and water. The earth represents the ability to be grounded by nature and the sense of safety. The air is about our thoughts and clarity. Fire is about ego and transformation. Water is symbolic of the subconscious flow and healing. All symbols can be experienced individually or in random combinations.

These four elements do not have control over us unless we allow it to happen. When we remember that there is always choice, life can be regulated more to our liking. Each element can bring us a message baring valuable insight assisting with transformation. but aught not have absolute control.

When we allow watery emotions to dominate, they will put out our fires. Conversely, if we allow angry fire to blaze, it will burn us to the ground. Balance is maintained by placing our feet upon the earth and gently walking into the wind. If we feel at risk, discover which element is out of control and adjust accordingly.

Changes Before Us ...

 "Pay attention to what reaches for you in this life and reach back."

Bianca Sparacino

As we navigate through this fall season, there is change on numerous levels. Perceptions are shifting, routines are changing, and the weather range expands to say nothing of the time. We may feel unsettled and question our lovely selves. There may be second guessing and questioning of our own security both emotional and physical.

As we walk through the beautiful leaves or gaze up at the full moon, let us also reach deep within connecting with our true hearts. Alignment is not about regathering that which is fragmented. It is about releasing the outdated and embracing insights. This process is nurturing and good for the soul.

Where are we currently focusing and through which lens are we looking? Are we avoiding change or open to engagement? Our energy can be used to increase our fears or hold open the mind for fresh thoughts. Often, change is right before our eyes waiting to lead us into new beginnings and dreams come true.

Words ...

"Speak your mind even though your voice shakes."

Eleanor Roosevelt

The house was quiet as I sat at the table writing, but then I heard a bird outside chirping away. I found myself wondering if this bird was singing for the simple joy of it or if it were sending a message. And if it were a message, was it being sent deliberately? Was it assuming there was an audience, or did it not care? 

There are times I refrain from speaking out as I do not want to appear as though I am pontificating. On occasion, however, a friend may refer to something I had randomly said and how it helped them face a certain situation unbeknownst to me. Maybe when prompted to share, I need to trust the words will land wherever needed.

Perhaps, the specific words we choose to use are not even all that important. Just as Divine Spirit moves us in and out of scenarios, maybe our words can be translated into information others need to hear. Then again, it may be significant for us to hear our own thoughts expressed out loud. Either way, when prompted, speak.

 

Imagine ...

"But I've come to see that imagination is the soul's translation device."

Valerie Kashouty Sargent

As children growing up, we are laughed at for the imaginative stories we tell or the mysterious images we say we have seen. When we share information that is beyond our age, we may be ignored or discredited. Imagination, however, can enhance the quality of life and through visualization, generate ideals for peaceful living.

Native Americans for example, believe that dreams are not imagination, but a vital form of communication. This is why they have Sweat Lodges, and Vision Quests. In some tribes, children upon waking, join a circle to immediately share and understand nighttime visions. Dreams are deciphered to enhance the living experience.

What some classify as imagination, others find to be guidance and inspiration. Connections of a spiritual nature can be heightened through deciphering dreams rather than dismissing them. It is through the use of imagination that engages scientists, doctors, and artists to create formulas that change the quality of life.