Element of Exposure

 

"Vulnerability is basically uncertainty, risk, and emotional exposure."

Brene Brown

A discussion was unfolding and there was a need to follow each person's reveal. Numerous thoughts were well documented when mentioned, and interest maintained by curiosity. While intently listening, eclectic responses were being held captive inside, hidden. Feelings were triggered, challenging the current belief system.

While holding the tongue, a person can feel either sucked in to the energy or pulled back into the shadows. The voice can be used in either agreement or difference of opinion. The question is how much does one want to reveal or invest? How much exposure is one willing to risk?

Private thoughts, perhaps, are the key. Observe if there is alignment or division and why? The mind needs to be open, not boarded up like an old building. Allow movement of fresh thought to decipher what stays or what is to be removed. Respect what is held true but be willing to shift in understanding through the element of exposure.

Shouldering Burdens

"Worry is an old man with bended head, carrying a load of feathers

which he thinks are lead."

Corrie Ten Boom

Throughout our lives, situations blow up in front of us, leaving piles of debris. We have to choose whether to pick up the pieces and place them on our shoulders or stack them to the side. The choice is ours to make with each action having its own result. Inner emotional conversations can turn negative, misdirecting us and triggering misuse of energy.

When we are focused on guilt and shame, corrective implementation may be overlooked. We carry sadness and regret on our shoulders, lessening forward movement. Distraction from appropriate resolve increases the burden. If we would look at stacked damage, rather than carry it, pieces can be arranged for creative repair.

Puzzling restoration is a forward movement that does not weigh one down. There is still serious damage and heavy emotions, but we shift from 'why' this happened to 'how' can I move forward. Positive perspective is challenging to maintain, but the lesson heals throughout the body, mind, and soul.

As The Body Listens

"Some of us think holding on makes us strong;

but sometimes it is letting go."

Hermann Hesse

Change initiates movement which we can either welcome or resist. Even when we acknowledge the adjustment will benefit us, we can be triggered by fear. We would rather endure disrespect than face what is unknown. Courage is required whether we are moving emotionally, physically or spiritually. 

When we begin to embrace our body as our partner, telling it is strong and deeply appreciated, flow becomes more positive. When we engage with our mind with thoughts of being capable and worthy, clarity enters. If we turn to the Divine asking for a greater presence in our life, guidance grows stronger.

When we finally let go in search of what will rekindle us, hope shines on new possibilities. When we broaden our view, perspectives no longer keep us small. Feeding new information into our awareness, we begin to create the life we long to live. Letting go of the struggle, allows room for healthier scenarios. 

 

Destructive Repetition

"Make peace with your past so it won't destroy your present."

Paulo Coelho

We believe we know ourselves deeply, but based on our highly creative nature, repetition of lessons come in all forms and differing scenarios. The background has changed, the actors are different, and the script has been altered, but the lesson remains the same. When we heal the past within, these specific challenges no longer trigger us.

Unknowingly, memories dictate our behavior. We are trapped in confusion, illusion, and delusion. We tell ourselves narratives based on previous judgments that reduced our original nature. When we dislodge the untruth, our inner respect, value, and awareness prevent engaging in past scenarios.

We cannot always control the thoughts that bubble up in our mind, but we do have choice as to our response. If we engage, we will relive the destruction. If we observe and let go, our inner health will continue to grow. We have control as to how we react, so hold the self accountable. Stop reliving the past and move forward.

 

"Kissing the Dark"

 

"The eclipse is the moon's way of kissing the dark."

Pablo Neruda

There is something about this darkness that releases our reserve and enables the heart to express sorrow. Unfiltered, pain seeps out and knowing we are unseen, tears do stream. Anger can be quietly acknowledged in preparation for this darkness to heal. That which we have avoided, can now form before us.

In this space of darkness, we can rekindle our desire to thrive, not marginally survive. An awareness settles on the reality of us needing to be the one who can shift us from sadness. Vision enhances what we most want for our lovely selves, rather than what others are projecting. There is an end to waiting for someone else to repair.

As we walk through this dark space, choices are made for resolve that best resonates with our purpose. As our emotions subside, the breath of life becomes deeper. Tension is released and peace returns to our perceptions. Energy begins to realign and our cells happily transport hope and joy, ultimately moving us forward.

Connecting ...

Creativity is just connecting things."

Steve Jobs

A few wisps of dream content hang in our mind as we awaken from a deep sleep. We find ourselves intrigued by the content, but by the time we get up, all has been forgotten. While listening to a podcast, an idea surfaces that we find to be quite exciting, but we soon lose track of it. Inspiration falls upon us, but we simply are not paying attention.

When we learn to take our ideas seriously and begin to link them together all kinds of sparks fly! Our thinking is challenged, curiosity heightens, and excitement builds. When we tone down our negative thinking and hype up imagination, things start coming together. Ideas align as we hold our vision quietly in thought.

Whether we are developing a lifetime investment or sketching a spring garden plot, the importance is moving forward, adding magic to the project. As excitement enters our life, we feel more alive, again. Purpose drives us and courage strengthens our sense of capabilities. There is no time like the present to begin connecting the dots.

Division of Personal Power

 

"Showing a lack of self-control is in the same vein granting authority to others."

Criss Jami

Flexibility is important when dealing with others, but not at the cost of self. The stronger our belief system, the less reaction we have to someone else's challenge. If our need to be appreciated is greater than self-respect, too readily our personal power begins to shift. We become less of who we are and more easily manipulated.

When we choose to stand by what we hold dear, those who do not align with us may not be the people we need to have in our presence. There is nothing wrong with disagreement unless it requires self-defacement. There is great value in allowing space for all people, but not if requires us to be smaller.  

When we are content with our personal power, we are free to visit diversity. With honor and respect, we can visit differences with the option of changing our perceptions. Pay attention to physical reaction, as it is newsworthy as well. Remain balanced and appreciate those who understand our passion and remain by our side.  

This Love of Mine ...

"Let us learn to live with kindness, to love everyone,

even when they do not love us."

Pope Francis

The emphasis on Valentine's Day aught not be on candles, boxed chocolates and fancy dinners. It is not singularly about hot romance and steaming sex. The tunnel vision on love desperately needs to be expanded. There is love in every beating heart and each one needs to be nurtured and safe guarded.

Without love, hearts are overtaken by negative emotions. They turn cold and isolated. Behaviors become altered without a healthy beat. When love is allowed to flow, there is more kindness and respect. There is a warm connection with higher regard for peaceful living amongst us all.

Place your hand on your heart and feel its soft presence. Close your eyes and envision love flowing through it. Now turn outwards, allowing this love to float towards others whether you like them or not. Let's extend this love throughout the land, generating a safe space for all humans to abide. It is imperative that we all begin to generate love.

Cloak of Integrity

"Keep your face always toward the sunshine ...

and shadows will fall behind you."

Walt Whitman

Integrity can be similar to a suit of armor. When we align our actions with our heart and clarity of mind, there is integrity. When we engage with life sustaining our moral code, there will continue to be challenges, but the results may be more rewarding. Knowing that we did our best with honesty and truthfulness.

If we remain respectful without spewing blame and anger onto others, we proceed with integrity. As we are led into new directions, there is more clarity when not distracted by past issues. If we are still suffering from emotional pain, allow our lovely selves to rest before continuing on as wholeness is needed strength.

When we face the sun, its brilliance calls together our hearts, minds, and intentions. We tend to stand on firmer ground, open to possibilities to experience life in new ways. In remembering our lessons from the darkness, we move forward towards the light with loving kindness. Choices made with integrity will enhance our experiences.

 

All Men ...

"All men are created equal."

Abraham Lincoln 

All men may be created equal, but the equality on this earth is it distributed fairly? Abraham Lincoln would be appalled to view the regression of mankind.  Would he wonder if all of his work had been in vain? How would he react seeing man still recklessly killing man and forcing them into just another form of slavery?

There was firsthand experience of prejudice growing up in Chicago. Awareness of injustice increased during college. Then the Vietnam War blatantly demonstrated the foolish waste of war. The Civil Rights movement instilled hope in many supporting diversities of body, mind and spirit. Truly, I believed the world would be vastly different by now.

My nightmare shows a dried-up field with empty chairs. Loneliness prevails as there are no more discussions or pleasantries. There are no more individuals, free. The atmosphere is a blanket of heaviness representing submission and repression. Clearly, there are no bells of freedom. just the presence of death. And this was just a dream, right?

 

Compassion, Regulated

"I find the best way to love someone is not to change them, but instead,

help them reveal the greatest version of themselves."

Steve Maraboli

Compassion for others has been prevalent throughout my life. It was never a decision or choice; it was just automatically present. It wasn't about feeling sorry for the person but rather seeing a goodness inside of them that needed nurturing and recognition.  There was my desire for them to see the value of their authentic self.

Accepting a person's right to be where they are, knowing that change will occur only if they are ready, assists in maintaining healthy boundaries. There is wisdom in knowing when to step back. A person, ultimately, follows his or her journey alone. They will find their self-worth with or without me.

Unfortunately, there are other scenarios where my compassion runs too deeply and over extension occurs. My own energy field becomes depleted in my efforts to encourage and support. It is difficult to walk away when his or her potential is not yet recognized, but each in our own way, in our own time.  

 

Who Is Listening ...

"Those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."

George Bernard Shaw

We gain momentum by looking forward. Stepping into what we do not know can be more fulfilling than remaining stuck in what is familiar. We are no longer who we used to be, so adjustments are necessary. If something is faulty, it will not repair on its own. If we open ourselves to diverse application, a new unfolding can occur.

Granted, there is risk in moving too quickly, but life can become stagnant if we do not move at all. The status of the present moment can be enhanced by consideration of something new. Remember who we are! Believe in our abilities, and gently explore new options, reading about diversity, and altering behaviors.

When we express ourselves, notice who is actually listening. It may be time to seek a different audience.  If a curiosity nags at us, where might it lead? Listen to a podcast, attend a gathering, and experience a new rush of energy. Be open minded and use this space in time for positive improvement! 

 

Hope Beckons

"The body heals. The heart mends. The soul remembers how to hope."

Gentle Healing 

Loss is not singular to death but extends into every area of life. It can be a deep seeded extraction, or a simple misplacement. Grieving is not the same either as we are all unique emotionally based upon our life experiences. Both loss and grieving require a process of restoration of the body, mind and spirit.

Inconsistencies are prevalent in healing. We can have good days, only to regress into a pit of darkness. Often, we are blindsided just when we think we have finally recovered. In anger or discouragement, we may lash out at ourselves for being weak. This, of course, is not the cause at all. 

When sorrow creeps in, we must be patient and kind. We cannot help how we feel. Acknowledge the pain but choose a way to move forward. Pause for prayer, meditation, or movement. Our body heals, our heart mends, and the soul is always filled with hope. Trust in the ability to move forward into a peaceful recovery. 

"Kiss the Ground"

                                                     

"Let the beauty we love be what we do. There are hundreds of

ways to kneel and kiss the ground."

Rumi

This is your life or so they say. How much of your life do you love? What portion of your life do you spend doing what you love to do? And how is it that you believe you have no choice in how this life is unfolding? Notice how you are feeling when you read these questions. Chances are quite good that there is an element of discomfort.

You could create a grid illustrating the pattern of your life. You could use colored pencils to denote times of happiness or trauma. Lines could be realigned to demonstrate times you veered off your path. Then you could make note of what lesson was learned and how much you expanded beyond expectation.

And what of your mindset? Do you speak to yourself with loving kindness or harsh criticism? Does any element of hope remain in your heart, or have you given up? Do not settle as there are hundreds of ways to experience life. Reclaim your vision, return to your path and kiss the ground with joy!

 

Tears ...

 

"Tears are words that need to be written."

Paulo Coelho

Change is not easy for anyone, even when it is welcomed. New situations may be exciting, or they can be nerve wracking. Fear of the unknown, absence of the familiar, and doubting can undermine the best of decisions.  We strive to be above our insecurities and repress our anxiety which then of course impacts us physically.

We may be looking at our dearest friend, inquiring what is wrong. Tears stream down this gentle soul's face while they state, "Nothing." Being honest with the self is taking the best road to mental health. Admitting our fears is not a weakness, but often times a strength. With pen in hand, we can give voice to what we hesitate to speak.

As we release what has been harbored, there is fresh space for new thinking. After venting, we may experience enough clarity that we can deem the situation no longer worthy of our time. Retrieving our energy from negative thinking, we can invest in scenarios where new episodes of adventure can be created. 

Elimination

"If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl,  

but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Numerous roadways open before us. Some have a speeding bypass while others might have a singular dirt lane. There will be twists and turns blocking what lies ahead and perhaps a few dead ends. Bridges under repair may alter our travel pace, and closed exits preempt a timely departure. 

As we commute, reflection is given to the past and speculation applied to the future. If we do not focus, however, upon the present, we may find ourselves driving around in circles. Eliminating old road maps, discarding built up debris and simply cleansing our vision assist in forward movement.

Rather than speeding, slow down the pace to notice what surrounds us. If we do not like the view, create a decorative plan. Change will not happen without taking fresh action. To give closure, reclaims our energy which can then be experienced as empowerment. If we want new outcomes, participation in the journey is imperative. 

 

Light Attracting Light

"An awake heart is like a sky that pours light."

Hafiz

When our hearts are open, we can detect unsettled emotions in others. This does not mean we throw on some magical cape and rescue them. We observe, notice, and send loving light their way. Love takes on numerous forms ... mental, physical, and spiritual. Using your imagination, silently cover them.

Each one of us contains goodness inside and we can formulate a tool that will allow us to share with others. We can do so without a person being aware. We do not need recognition for being a conscientious human. If we are responding to a friend, no words are necessary, just a hefty hug or gentle squeeze of the hand.

When we lose our own footing, there are actions we can take before we fall. Although we may not see it, light surrounds us at all times. Even as we walk into darkness, there is a light presence beside us. Light attracts light so be willing to reach out. There is a phrase that assists us ... "Come into my heart oh God. I love you and need you." (Author unknown) 

Bound Wings ...

 

"You are born to fly, and in dreams you remember the soul has wings."

Robert Moss

When we feel ourselves tightly bound by false pretenses and misguided choices, our wings begin to twitch and quiver. They create pressure against that which binds us intending to trigger awareness. Unfortunately, there are times we misunderstand and continue to endure what was never meant to be.

When we neglect to expand our vision or trust the subtle signs around us, our head hangs low in drudgery.  We no longer see beauty, and we trudge farther away from an intended dream. Perhaps we see stopping as failure and any element of change a weakness. Instead of being a visionary, we have become a victim.

No longer able to withstand the confines of being falsely bound, the wings fiercely expand and set us free. As debris falls from our feathers, the elements escort us to higher ground. From our elevated viewpoint, we remember our soul connection and the ability to stay the course of our dreams, never again settling for less.

Participation Required

"The basic for any approach to self-transformation is an ever increasing

awareness of reality and the shedding of illusions."

Erich Fromm

Participating in a small gathering, an aging woman shared how she was coping with our chaotic world. She said she removed her glasses to alter her vision, took out her hearing aids to soften surrounding noise, and gave her mind to the Divine. She reported that she did not pray, chant or meditate. She simply sat in her place and quietly extended love. 

Some are being judged for not taking action against the violence unfolding around us. But not taking action is not a sign of approval.  When we choose to sit and maintain peaceful light for the world, it contributes to forming alignment. Using violence against violence creates nothing but more atrocities. 

Observing the unfolding danger and not investing in false illusions, we can utilize our inner sense of peace and connection to loving kindness with the world. Physically, we may not be able to do anything, but there is power in our thoughts. Transformation requires participation and we must find our way towards peaceful contribution. 

Tempted to Hide

"Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen."

Brene Brown

There are numerous reasons for not wanting to be seen. It can stem from random misfortune that we have no control over or from circumstances we have set into motion. We do not want to experience disdain displayed in the faces of others or tolerate an opinion that is not based in fact. So, it is tempting to hide.

Choosing to remain private is our prerogative, but to hide in shame is more damaging than we deserve. As we listen to our inner critic, false accusations need to be discarded. As we face the truth of any situation, treating ourselves with loving kindness is respectful and healing. 

We have the inner strength and positive mindset to re-enter life. True friends will listen and support us. Look forward, determining changes that can alter the pressure and stress at hand. Movement will escort us out of darkness and back into the light.  All of the decisions being made today will advance us to a thriving tomorrow. 

Moon Beam ...

"The moon is a friend for the lonesome to talk to."

Carl Sandburg

As a young child, I searched for the moon. It was my one constant even when I could not see it in the sky. I knew it was there, up so very high, simply blocked by clouds floating by. There was an energetic exchange that assured me I would be just fine. My breathing would balance, my heart felt full, and fear slowly dripped away.

The full moon is ramped with high energy which can trigger disturbances beyond repair, and yet, it can shift us towards loving care. At times, we will only pay attention when things are so tumultuous, they can no longer be ignored. We are forced into action as the moon shines brightly upon our despair. 

I like to think of the full moon as a portal in the sky. I visualize ascending into this brilliant light, losing physical form.  It is in this energy that peace abounds, and I believe in life hereafter. And when the time comes that I am no longer here, just look up there! I will be a moon beam just waiting to listen and rekindle light.