Impact of Snow

"Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, but just

look what they can do when they stick together."

Vesta Kelly

The snow is beautiful as it falls, delicately dancing to the ground. As it layers, it gives the earth a pristine blanket, covering all that has become dead in the winter. Within so many, both children and adult, there stirs and excitement of anticipated play. There are snowmen and forts to be made! Grab the sled and we're on our way!

Then there are others who turn to the joy of baking cookies, hot chocolate preparation, and locating the marshmallows. Tea bags are neatly arranged, coffee's brewing, and mugs are scattered across the counter.  Plenty of heavy blankets are unearthed to keep everyone warm, and if there is a fireplace, let's all gather around.

Then questions begin to stir in our hearts. Does our neighbor have enough food? Will the pipes freeze? Is the power going to stay on? Are there enough shelters open for the homeless? And what of the stray animals? For distraction, we turn on the news and there is Minneapolis ... humans trying to stick together. 

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Illusion

"Peace comes from within. Do not seek it without."

Siddhartha Gautama

My New Year's Intention to move forward in each moment continues. There is more energy when one isn't collapsing into the past or venturing too far into the future. When I stop puzzling over things I have no control, there is less confusion, and clarity calms my soul. Both power and peace are returning to me.

A stairwell lined with bricks presented itself with a very steep incline. I was thankful for a guiderail, but the projection into the unknown felt overwhelming. Then I remembered my promise to myself and began the climb, one step at a time. Grief and sorrow lingered on some steps, but joy and laughter were there as well.

Admittedly, the past has caused some slabs to be damaged prompting careful advancement, but indeed, they create an interesting climb. I endeavor to stay true to myself, open to learning, and engaging in peaceful movement. My reactions and projections no longer determine life's moments. Life is an illusion, and I am determined to simply shine.

Without Permission

"Nobody can hurt me without my permission."

Mahatma Gandhi

When we are open to all of our feelings without judgment, they can be addressed and released before they become an emotional upheaval. If we are aware of our inner thoughts, it is easier to monitor and redirect our moods. Listening closely, we can pause and ask if what we are thinking is true or is fear having its way.

Whether we are facing disapproval or rejection, awareness assists in maintaining alignment. If we have stumbled or been less than what is desired, there may be change in our outwardly behaviors. But deep inside, we remain powerful. We have inner strength to recognize needed improvement without devaluing our entire being.

Rather than thinking of failure, reframe with words like mistakes and lessons. It is also necessary to recognize when someone else is falsely projecting misinformation. When we experience pain, reevaluate the situation, explore personal motivation, and decipher truth especially in matters of the heart.

Fire in the Belly

"Love doesn't mean silence or weakness. It means

choosing not to lose yourself while the world is loud."

Gevee Boudreau 

Without the distractions of the holidays, the chaos in our world may seem more intrusive. As we attempt to regroup and balance our routines, stillness may be more challenging to find. We may find it helpful to snatch moments of reprieve throughout the day rather than trying to quarantine our lovely selves for an hour or more.

At the first awareness of angst in the belly or the beginnings of a headache, respect these signals from the body. Step aside and take deep breaths exhaling slowly. Rubbing the base of the skull with shoulder movement can help as well. Check inside to overhear thoughts mindlessly rumbling causing us discomfort.

There are times we get too accustomed to our mind chatter and disregard the damage it does. There may be something we repressed a short while ago that needs to be unearthed and nurtured. All of these are ways we can remain connected to ourselves and not get washed away by undocumented emotion. 

 

Forever Bonds ...

"There is nothing I would not do for those who are really my friends.

I have no notion of loving people by halves; it is not my nature."

Jane Austen 

This flame is in honor of those who have been so very dear to me throughout hardship and celebrations. They are the ones who remained true to his or her own path without trying to meet my needs or expectations. I am grateful to have learned through their example of being true to themselves and not out of false allegiance to me.

I may lead for a while. but I have no need for followers. Walk next to me and share what is seen based upon personal perceptions. Expand with personal experiences and let me know what it is that has been learned. Yes, reflect back to me who I am, but more importantly, show me who you are.

This celebration is to honor forever bonds. It is to recognize deep appreciation for the safe space consistently offered to me. The integrity of our connection has been inspirational and life altering. I can only hope that our light will forever shine together helping others not only find his or her way but exceed all expectations. 

 

Articulate with Clarity

"When you give yourself permission to communicate what matters to you

in every situation you will have peace despite rejection or disapproval."

Shannon L. Alder

As we travel through life, barriers will block the way. They are not always meant to create a dead end, but a pause to reevaluate and rest. It is in our silence that new information can present itself. Positioned in a different viewpoint on our path, we may be open to seeing things differently.

It is inevitable that we veer off our path, but there is a lesson in everything. It is important that we do not lug our errors around tainting new possibilities. There is an art to forgiveness which sets us free and returns our power back to us. If there has been judgment or rejection, it must be witnessed and then released.

If emotional needs are not being met or partnerships no longer assisting, there needs to be an exploration of how we are delivering ourselves. If we are articulating with clarity, but no one is paying attention, then perhaps our audience needs to be changed. We have choice and can blame no one but our lovely selves if we are not being heard.

 

Master of Life

 

"You are the master of your life.

Take your power back."

Healing Energy 

It is a small price to pay when we acquiesce to someone we love with intention to make them happy.  If this becomes a habit, however, there will be a price to be paid.  If our loving kindness is not returned in a reciprocal way, we will end up depleted. Acknowledging our right to speak our truth, whether accepted or not, is part of holding ourselves accountable.

We need to be heard, whether right or wrong, as a matter of respect. Those who listen will have a better understanding of who we are which activates a higher level of communication. This is not about having power 'over' someone, but rather about maintaining our right to how we feel, think and contribute.

In relationships, we endeavor to maintain harmony. At work, we strive to be a part of the team. Our intention to be a peaceful component does not include becoming a mere shadow of the self. It is important to be exposed to diversity as a part of healing and growth, but never at the expense of self.

Betrayal

 

"Stop living in defense mode and start letting life

meet you where you are."

Source Messages

Energy invested in projecting an image of whom we are not, is wasted. Any energy that is not supporting who we are in this moment is poorly invested. There is no need to be brash in stand-off actions nor harshly declare our positions. We can enhance ourselves by listening to others with an open mind.

Just because we hear something supported by those we hold in high regard, does not mean it should overtake personal belief. Examine the information and quietly decide if it remains true for us. This doesn't make the other person wrong, but based on our own personal experiences, it may not be right for us.

As we attract experiences and information based on our belief system, there is importance for maintaining clarity. We can tell ourselves, with the information we have right now, this is what we hold to be true. By all means, there are situations where it may be best to say nothing, but never betray what is important to us. 

Puzzle Pieces

"We are the puzzle pieces who seldom fit with other puzzle pieces."

Sasha Cagen

Life is a puzzle, when at times, pieces simply slide together or other sequences when nothing seems to fit! It can be frustrating when we cannot find the exact piece we are looking for. And even when at long last the puzzle appears to be complete, someone can accidently bump into our table, and the puzzle falls back into pieces.

We can attempt to group pieces by color or shape or imprinted design, but the true grouping tends to require deliberate focus. An element of acceptance is needed as not all attempts are successful. One needs to know when to continue to persevere or when to walk away prior to throwing the entire puzzle away.

Not only is it challenging to hold all of our pieces in place, but in courageous times, we may try to link our pieces with other puzzles, hoping to form one big picture. If feeling restrained, we may even want to make an addition to what is already formed. Then we may be tempted to buy a new one or just place them high on a shelf. 

Becoming Conscious ...

"People will do anything, no matter how absurd, in order to avoid

facing their own souls. One does not become enlightened by imagining

figures of light, but by making the dark conscious."

Carl Jung

It is unfortunate that we choose to hide, rather than reach out. Instead of giving fresh air to that which has spoiled, we tend to bury it deeper. It is when we open our door to pain that healing can begin. We cannot always avoid darkness, but if we look carefully, there is always a way to let light in.

When a human being is in crisis, they need to express themselves to someone, whether it be their beloved pet, therapist, or best friend. If we remember that we all hold darkness within us, loving kindness can flow between two souls. It is in the deception of being unworthy that we believe our darkness must be hidden.

If we have been abandoned or betrayed, we may be extremely independent, hiding ourselves. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, hope and receptivity brings light to our healing. When we choose to face our own darkness, the inner flame grows stronger. We realize we are worthy and do not have to face the darkness alone.

Making Headway

 

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of wisdom."

Aristotle

On the one hand, we may find fault with everyone but ourselves. On the other hand, we may singularly blame ourselves for every wrongdoing in life. Our existence is best experienced with curiosity, rather than becoming lost in comfort or pain. When we recognize fear as an indicator of change, we will advance in a more balanced way.

We want to understand and change for a perfect outcome, but first we must recognize what is going on inside of ourselves. What is prompting this situation ... relationship history, perceived imperfection, limited beliefs. Evaluation is necessary prior to taking any action as it is not about personal crucifixion but befriending the self.

When our methods of facing challenge, whether avoidance or repression, are pre-empted by a gentle understanding of who we are, acceptance facilitates an appropriate means of forward movement. With loving kindness, we can escort ourselves forward with clarity and precision that is otherwise overlooked. 

Disclosure

 

"Letting others be wrong about you or a situation while keeping your peace

and focus is the most misunderstood power move you will ever make."

Morgan R. Olivier  

Never ignore or neglect the disturbance of inner peace. At first sign of disruption, try to determine what is provoking us. The cause may be obvious or hidden. Depending on the severity of the situation, we may want to seek professional help or the trusted heart of a friend. Release the pressure and then invest energy into peaceful resolve.

When change becomes obvious to others, our boundaries will be challenged by curious minds. We are never obligated to explain ourselves and a true friend will be present but not push. It is our story, and we choose how much to reveal and to whom. The only person deserving full disclosure is the self.

Aligned with truth, move forward quietly. Embrace the lesson at hand and seek both clarity and healing. When we love ourselves, integrity is maintained and moving forward becomes a new journey. Just as we feel distance or loss as the sun sets, there is knowledge that it will shine brightly once again. 

Not Choosing ...

"If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading."

Lao Tzu

Change is not always invited and unfortunately challenges us to face decayed thinking, prior to experiencing a sense of adventure. It does not have regard for our personal timetable and imposes its own cadence. Developing an attitude of trusting the path that is unfolding, we gain a gentle increase in confidence.

The change that occurs is often not of our choosing, creating a sense of loss and overwhelming vulnerability.  When we choose to stay the course, growth unfolds. Decluttered, we are reminded of what is important to us and new ways of using our energy to develop a new way of existing.

As we learn to set a balanced pace, we begin to notice opportunities and how they can be incorporated into our lives. With calm and creativity, change stirs growth preparing forward movement into a better existence. If we do not like the life we are living, go within and reconnect with inner guidance and new perspectives.

 

Just As We Are ...

"When the eyes say one thing, and the tongue another, a practiced man

relies on the language of the first." Ralph Waldo Emerson 

A non-verbal child watches and observes in order to determine safety in surroundings and understand how to navigate based on the sense of a projected mood. In childhood, many become emotional barometers in order to determine how to ensure safety. Decisions in behavior were based on perceptions.

These children, learning how to adapt to environment, learned to hide personal feelings for fear of reprimand. They learned how to wear masks just as pivotal people in their immediate surroundings did. It is called learned behavior. The masks indicate hidden feelings of not being enough or worthy, or valuable.

As adults, masks continue to be worn while desperately seeking healthy connection with others. Safety is a high priority where one imagines stepping out from hiding to simply 'be'. Unfortunately, we can never thoroughly embrace another human until we learn to embrace ourselves, just as we are ... imperfect.

 

Vibes!

"The energy of the mind is the essence of life."

Aristotle 

Instead of thinking about our energy in terms of negative or positive emotions, let's redefine it as personal power. Our energy can indicate change, intuition, awareness and direction. At any time, we can choose to be still and recalibrate our energy field. When we feel disharmony, we can make choices to return to balance, both internally and externally.

When our energy is flowing, we experience bliss, whereas, when it is repressed, there can be fear. In either situation, an immediate reaction is not the best choice. Be still inside, assessing what is triggering our sense of being. Determine if it is our surrounding or internal landscape, rather than impulsive overreacting. 

Our bodies are made of energy, so it makes sense to understand how to manipulate it. When out of balance, quietly restore it by seeking light whether from a candle, the sun or moon. Develop a connection with a spiritual energy source and we can readily return to harmony. When we establish our sense of energy, life blends striving for a peaceful vibration.

Stepping Out

"My wish for you is that you continue to be with and how you are."

Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou encourages us to align our inner spirit with outer persona. She asks us to step out from behind our projected images and to remove our masks. Instead of hiding our quirks, we are invited to show them to the world with pride. Rather than settling, we are encouraged to explore more and add creative layers to who we have already become.

Reserve private time to visualize how we could expand and deepen our human experience here on earth. Then stretch the imagination to uncover ways to facilitate a way to manifest this desired growth. Hold the vision in the mind's eye and visit it frequently. Allow excitement to gather and push us forward.

Be patient in each moment, remembering that life is a process. It is a journey with twists and turns. Veering off into unmarked terrain can offer us peace and tranquility, before moving forward again. Continue to add description to the image we keep nurturing in our mind. Remember, what we perceive, we can receive.  

 

Vision Inside or Outside?

 

"Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart.

Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside awakes."

Carl Jung

When we experience stillness within, we have learned to quiet the monkey brain and place ego across the room on a chair. We have increased our ability to accept who we are, how we act, and be accountable. We can watch our old patterns float across our mind's eye and make the choice to change.

Where has being a victim taken us other than avoidance and repression? Has there been any satisfying advancement in being small? The effort we put into holding space for those we love, does it match the investment we make in ourselves? If we are not setting boundaries for others to respect, how will they know how to treat us?

Peace begins within. It is time to weed our emotional gardens, giving space for new seeds of self-respect and personal enhancement. In stillness, we rediscover our true essence which sets the stage for creative rebirth. Just lifting our awareness to our true nature triggers a new sense of power. Awaken as you look inside and begin again.

Not Foolish Fantasy!

"Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will

bring back, a new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country."

Anais Nin

As we sleep, our dreams can be mysteriously filled with deep meaning. Seldom do we grasp the nuance of guidance, prediction, inspiration or resolution. There are no boundaries between gender, age, nationality, or location. Throughout ancient cultures, dreams have been recorded as containing pivotal information.

Whether or not we are aware of it, we learn in cycles which ought not be a surprise. Growth in nature unfolds throughout seasons, just as our health and emotional balance impact the quality of our dreams. The energy of lunar cycles also adjusts our dreams. The sequence tends to be balance of learning, digesting, pondering and application.

Dream symbols are unique to each one of us with some common denominators. Interpretation, however, is influenced by our own perceptions. Curiously expect insight, invest in understanding, and decide how to apply. Dreams are a natural resource for all of us, and too often neglected as foolish fantasy.

Circular Pathways

"Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards."

Soren Kierkegaard 

While taking a stroll down memory lane, I began to notice the frequency of my travels revisiting circular pathways. The scenery was different, acquaintances were not the same, and situations varied; and yet, there was a repetitive theme. Slowly, I began to discover that everything was triggered by impaired decisions.

Unpacking cultural mind-shrink, I could now see that I rarely recognized the choices before me, and even if I did, fear would prevent me from choosing. Gradually, I would begin to explore options, but quickly recanted them, pressured by others. It would take years before I grasped that caring for others is worthy, but not at the expense of self.

I began the journey into my past once again, but this time I shined my inner light. I looked through new eyes of accountability, releasing self-imposed restraints. I was flooded with new appreciation for myself and clarity of how I could proceed. With each new step, inner peace abounds. I finally get to be me! 

Take It Back!

"Only when we are no longer afraid do we begin to live."

Dorothy Thompson 

Without answers or declared destinations, step forward with ego tucked in your back pocket. Movement creates space for hope, letting some fresh air in. We have choice to be paralyzed by fear or activated by movement. We have grown so mundane that life is simply happening to us, rather than being an adventure.

Stop being sedate and take back what is important to you. Not obligations, but a mindset of wonderment that is open to new revelation. Opportunity surrounds us, but we are heavy laden by darkness which clouds are vision. There is more to life than just existing, so stop settling for lesser than.

Rather than trying to explain ourselves to others, lets believe in our own goodness. Whisper into our own heart that we are worthy, lovable, and kind.  Find joy in rediscovering things that stimulate and bring joy. Allow the eyes to fall upon small bits of beauty in our world and be dedicated to returning to our true nature. 

 

Adventure in Darkness

"Going into the unknown is invariably frightening,

but we learn what is significantly new only through adventures."

M. Scott Peck

Our mindset colors our perspective. We can project a year of trial and trouble or a year of magical fantasy, and the Universe is happy to oblige. What we invest is what we get, so how can we be honestly surprised? Not only do our thoughts attract live events, but they also attract people who are ready to play the assigned role.

We may ask ourselves, 'Why would I create such a thing?" Once we accept accountability, however, we can feel our power shift. We can explore the reasons we chose to overinvest or resist. We can link our fears with our actions and begin to create new thought patterns. If we, indeed, wrote the play, then we surely can adjust the script.

Resist thoughts of discouragement for repeating insecurities dressed in new disguises. Open the mind to quietly observing new opportunities surrounding us. As we move forward into the unknown, your energy increases and your light shines brightly. Do not be afraid, be open to adventure and discovery!

 

Gentle Being

              "We have a tendency to think in terms of doing and not in terms of being."                          Thich Nhat Hanh

This day may be the first you have had to yourself since the holidays began. By now, family has gone home, friends no longer linger, and your space begs to be restored. You are probably tired of eating big meals and digesting leftovers. Let me give you permission to slip into comfy clothes and do nothing for a while.

Sometimes this simple act cannot be accomplished unless you seek private space ... wherever that may be. A place without noise except perhaps for the sound of the wind. You can find connection by looking up to the sun or watching the moon float by.  There may be relief for you while gazing at the stars and feeling recognized.

When you are at peace with your lovely self, you are the very best person to be with. In stillness, the sense of self can be accepted, supported, and loved unconditionally. This creates a sense of peace that balances emotions and adjusts direction. Allow the self to gently 'be' as life gently unfolds.

 

Permission for Silence

"With no expectations anything can become."

Steven Farmer

It is entirely too easy to lose sight of the self. We can get distracted by the smallest things or be interrupted by the greatest of things. Our kind heartedness places everyone else up front while we willingly lag behind. There is nothing wrong with sacrifice, unless it takes a toll. We can tend to minimize our lack of personal care causing consequences. 

Lack of nurturing escorts sadness, loneliness, and often depression. We choose not to tell anyone, but maybe secretly hope our best friend will notice. Too often, we have shut ourselves down so repeatedly, we may not even have a sense of who we truly are. In our shuffle to serve, we have lost ourselves.

It is within silence that we can rediscover who we are. We can adjust our agenda to meet our own needs so that we can reestablish a healthy momentum. Seriously, do we really know who we are or are we just playing a role? Please take some time and open your heart to a life that respects your skills with a meaningful sense of purpose. 

The Wolf Supermoon

 

"Go slowly, my lovely moon, go slowly."

Khaled Hosseini

The Wolf Supermoon is brighter than normal and is positioned a little higher in the sky. It honors the intuition and cunning of the wolf and recalls its haunting howls. The energy of this moon increases our energy. Astrology, the moon is in Cancer bringing deep emotional waves of intensity.

Moon vibrations have been known to stir things up. As our energy increases, it is an ideal time to use our creativity for fresh ideas, inspirations, and pursuits. This is a perfect time to once again remind ourselves of our newly made New Year's Intentions.  As we gaze up at the moon, the pace is clearly set with gentle movement across the sky.

Rather than rushing forward into 2026, let us follow the pace of the moon. It does not rush; it glides across the sky. It travels alone just as we are often times called to do. It gently encourages us to go within to integrate our emotional and spiritual insights. Once aligned, we open our heart and tread lightly into our newly created purpose.

How Can You Know ...

"How can you know what you're capable of 

if you don't embrace the unknown?"

Esmeralda Santiago

Life is like a colorful paintbox needing to be used. There are numerous colors in the box waiting to be blended and splattered. There isn't just one way to create nor is there just one brush. We, as multi-sided humans, need to nourish all parts of ourselves to experience the life that was intended.

A friend introduced herself as a retired therapist. I laughed out loud at this narrow boring description. Afterall, she was a teacher, artist, writer, and in-depth spiritual leader. There is praise for modesty, but there must also be respect for what we have contributed to our personal life as well as to others.

Look into your paintbox. How many colors are you using? When did you last change the water? How many brushes are you using? If bored, you must hold yourself accountable. What have you secretly wanted to do ... dancing, singing, writing, travel. You have access to your inner spirit, and now is the time to splash some paint around!

Time to Fly!

"When you walk to the edge of the light you have taken that first

step into the darkness of the unknown, you must believe one of two 

things will happen: There will be something solid for you  

to stand upon, or you will be taught to fly."

Patrick Overton

Let's set aside the strict and restrictive resolutions carefully scripted for the New Year. In the place of serious rules, let's list a series of possibilities that are open to both expansion and diversion. Allow them to be from differing categories that will encompass all aspects of personal self.

Examples: 1. Explore Nature (visit state parks, bird watching class, ritual for sunset, discover new walking trails). 2. Deepen Conversations (listen to pod casts; take a class with same interest people; exchange with strangers). 3. Share Skills (teach grandkids, neighbors, or co-workers). 4. Learn to Align Outer Identity with Inner Yearnings.

Develop intentions to step outside of the comfort zone being open to what may appear or attract your attention. Be brave to wear the heart open offering kindness and compassion. Talk less and listen more. Intentions can flow together leading to inspiration that will impact a full New Year of honest living.