Embraced Offer

"Although she had never been a beauty, she'd finally learned to see what was beautiful about her, and she tried to look at other people with the same forgiving eye, and this had made a vast difference in how she embraced what life offered."

William Kent Krueger

The saying, "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" might be old but still rings true. When we engage deeply with a person, physical aspects tend to fall away, and we become appreciative of inner non-physical qualities. Limiting beauty to superficial appearances lacks depth and limits perceptions. 

When our physical looks become the gauge for successful living, life can become shallow, and lonely. Conversely, when we appreciate the tone of someone's voice, the bird flying in nature, the giggling of a child, our lives become enhanced, allowing us to feel a deeper connection with beauty in our world.

When we become less critical of those around us, self-criticism lessens. Gratitude gains momentum and definition of beauty swells. We admire small pieces within the design rather than gaping at a lifeless portrait. Allowing new awareness of beauty to flow through us, appreciation kindles the soul.

 

Bounce Back

 

"Forgive yourself, this is a school."

Archeology for the Women's Soul

As children, we fell on the playground but jumped back up to try again. We were not always accepted by the cool kids, nor did we consistently excel scholastically. Experiences were different. Sometimes we may have been filled with lofty thoughts swinging on a swing or harshly hitting dirt at the bottom of the slide.

Life continues to be a school, teaching us lessons on different levels. Some of the teachers excel in communicating while others may have zero connection with students. In the process of learning, we may have to endure timeouts or skip a grade. Learning experiences abound if we pay attention and seek the wisdom.

Whatever level we find ourselves, there is a necessity in nurturing our dreams, desires, and expectations. Replenishing our thoughts impacts our drive. Clarity fuels our visions. Errors, miscalculations, and regression are unavoidable, but it is our bounce back ability that impacts our progression in this school.

Healer, Heal Thyself

 

"May all the healers of the earth find their own healing."

Starhawk

Everyone around us is a healer, either through challenge or kindness. The same is true for a teacher, one does not require a teaching certificate to enlighten the life of one other. Even with healers deliberately working to better the mental or physical health of a person, it is the energy that passes through them that makes the impact.

As we gather wisdom and healing energy, the outcome depends upon how we absorb and apply what we learn. Every individual is in need of improvement, both healer and teacher.  Moving forward requires new knowledge which in result changes us. Change does not occur if we do not shift. Staying the same is stagnant.

A therapist is not free from personal issues, a healer is not free from ailments, and a teacher does not have all of the answers. We all have options as to what means we will use for growing and healing. By activating choice, we begin the passage to greater understanding which is a goal for life. 

Be Still and Listen ...

 

"The quieter you become, the more you are able to hear."

Rumi

Sitting quietly at the table, I cleared my mind of thought and filled it with gentle white light. I remained still, allowing my mind to be like a curious child. I did not want to be tainted by the past nor fascinated by an imaginary future. I yearned to simply be present while listening for the Divine plan to be whispered from my soul.

With the passing of winter, blackened snow had been shoveled away and the new year sorted through options of what might be at bay. Alas, spring has come with high winds blowing old layers away. New growth is pushing up offering an array of options to answer the question of how does my garden grow.

Without pen or paper, my mind is quiet and gentle images float through this inner light of mine. There finally has been enough healing that my sense of self has become sturdy without needing personal acceptance or approval. In this stillness, I feel the best of everything gently sliding my way.

Multi-Sensory Perceptions

 

"We are evolving from five-sensory humans into multisensory humans ...

The perceptions of the multi-sensory human extend beyond physical

reality to the larger dynamical system of which our physical reality is a part."

Gary Zukav

Through unique experiences, we are beginning to be aware of differing ways to receive information beyond physical means. We can think of this as receiving knowings that resonate within us. Our old limitations may trigger criticism and judgment. Deep trust in  this process eliminates unnecessary layers for understanding.

There is nothing required other than being open and paying attention. This is not something new occurring, we are simply expanding our awareness. Information comes to us and asks us to relate in different ways without filters. It asks us to use more clarity and less need for confirmation. There is no immediate need to agree or disagree, but to be open.

There is more presence in the multi-sensory process. Our ability to participate with this develops over time. We find ourselves knowing something without documentation which can be challenging. Understanding gently propels us forward engaging with other spirits or realms. Similar to meditation, we embrace life without veils.

Childlike ...

 

"The most mature human beings are also childlike."

Abraham Maslow

With maturity comes an acceptance of who we are. We are less likely to project a false image or keep ourselves small. Childlike ways allow us to be comfortable in our own skin. We may experience things more deeply but take them less seriously. Laughter truly is the best medicine for the soul.

Engaging with grandchildren lifts our spirits, but not all of us have access to them or they too have grown old. There are numerous choices, however: blowing bubbles, walking barefoot through the grass or mindlessly coloring. Getting ice cream recalibrates numerous parts of our body, mind, and soul.

In day to day living, there are opportunities to interact with children, either in our neighborhood or outlying areas. We can volunteer our time or donate toys or clothes to area charities. We can give ourselves permission to be giving like that of a child ... freely without expected payback. 

Release and Restore

 

"A walk in nature walks the soul back home."

Mary Davis

A heaviness falls upon me without definition. I cannot quite place what is wrong, but something is off and the more I try to ignore it, the more it grows. Clueless, I head outside into the sun and upon my favorite path. I walk knowing the way so all of my attention can be squandered on the lovely nature surrounding me.

Almost instantly, my body relaxes. My senses are distracted in the most delightful ways. The physical movement is beneficial, but the gentle lifting of my spirit is the gift. I am distracted by bird songs and the vibrant colors of the flowers. As the sun falls upon my face, I cry, knowing I am safe again.

There are times I never puzzle out what was bothering me, but the relief is so great that I am once again aligned. With each step returning me home, I realize I am better prepared to face whatever is waiting. I know my soul will guide me no matter where my path leads into my unknown journey.

Unlocked

  

"In every burden lies the seed of growth and transformation."

Sara Cook

Whether physical, mental or spiritual, we internally carry burdens. We repress what we are not yet ready to face, ignore what is right before us, and cause harm to our stability. Very few situations can be remedied on the spot so there is need for a healthy way to assess. What is actually disturbing personal peace?

Once the detriment is identified, an evaluation reflects if it is something that simply needs to be adjusted or unleashed. Often, the disturbance is a lesson in simply experiencing how one feels, not requiring action. The issue may be about embracing what has happened and then the need to unlock.

Not everything can be repaired, especially if it is stored from the past. When we hoard our emotions, they will begin to impact us on all levels ... physical, mental, spiritual. Accepting we cannot resolve issue, there is a calling to return to the path of wholeness. Through growth and transformation, we experience healing and move forward. 

Savoring Spaces

"You learn to say goodbye to places, to keep them in your heart and go on."

Ursula K. Le Guin

Unexpectedly, we come upon a place where heightened responses occur. Our reaction may be of joy or great sorrow. Either way, body, mind, and spirit react in a hyper way. If we are traveling, the particular area will remain logged in our memory where we can return instantly. If we are in our imagination, the same elements remain true.

We may have been overly invested in discovering a safe space, but once it is logged into our mind, we can effortlessly return. We can furnish it with comfort and build an arsenal of memories. It becomes a sacred place where one easily enters and finally feels at home. It becomes a housing unit for special aspects of our existence. 

As an example, there is a rock formation bordering a lake that has been occasionally visited but frequented consistently in memory. It is without fancy decorations, somewhat isolated, and the sole sound of lapping water. In the closing of the eyes, one is fully present and refreshed even though it's been years since I've been.

Flexible Adjustments

"No" is a complete sentence."

Annie Lamott

As we continue to advance our skill in adjusting boundaries, our energy is disbursed in a more efficient way. Our awareness grows about where we are most vulnerable and how to regulate exposure to situations that drain us. Boundaries are needed physically, emotionally, intellectually, and with time allotment.

As we grow more comfortable with our fluctuation between accepting and declining, we remain more evenly keeled. Detrimental patterns become apparent and can be better diffused. As we monitor our lovely selves, we learn about our personal preferences and our approach to life improves.

Responding with 'no' is equal to saying 'yes'. Neither is right nor wrong as they are both reflective of choice. The emphasis is on our preference not upon response. To be effective, we need to be aligned with our nature, so checking in is a vital action for our stabilization in the physical, emotional, intellectual and time allotment. 

 

Wrong Audience

"Being safe is about being seen and heard and allowed to be 

who you are and to speak your truth."

Rachel Naomi Remen

Choose to speak from the heart revealing personal truth without fear of being misunderstood. If our thoughts are ignored or minimized, it does not mean they are not of value. It generally means that we are sharing ourselves with a disinterested person. If time cannot be invested in understanding us, then we are speaking to the wrong audience.

When a listener fails to respond or minimizes what we have just shared, it does not mean that we have lacked clarity or our thoughts are invalid. Perhaps we need to explore the reality of our value to this person. If we are not prioritized, it is doubtful he or she will hold safe space for us.

Communication usually is not the problem. It is about the listener's ability to quietly be present. They do not need to have answers, as ultimately, we are just wanting to vent and release. Right or wrong, we have the right to speak truth as we know it. As we listen to ourselves speak, we gain insight as well. 

 

And then there were four ...

 

"Words are not enough to express the unconditional love 

that exists between a mother and a daughter."

Caitlin Houston

Delivering my fourth child, I was anticipating another son. Instead, I gave birth to my daughter, and it was Mother's Day! Throughout the years, the boys educated, cherished and protected her. She is a gift that keeps on giving. No matter her age, mindset or location, our bond expands, contracts, and strengthens. 

Today, her birthday, awakens old memories of laughter, tears, and adventure. Far from a prissy little girl, she was authentic, fun loving, and thrived through learning. Life was not always easy for her, but enhanced skills propelled her forward. She maintained deep friendships, strong religious beliefs, and love for nature.

Currently, she is a psychology professor at a university, therapist in private practice, published writer and engaging speaker. She is a devoted wife and amazing mother.  Her compassion and kindhearted applications are readily apparent in her children. Through her unconditional love, she changed my life forever. And I am just so proud! 

Honoring the Second One

 

"I may not see my son every day, but every day I think of him."

Allison Banfield

The three boys arrived first and then a girl born on Mother's Day. My second son has a birthday today, and so I'd like to honor him. Out of the four children, he was the most challenging. Hyper energy of his required constant monitoring, and by doing so, I created a very strong bond with him.

His childhood defiance and determination contributed to his exceptional success in the adult world. Yes, there remains some scarring reflective from his early years, but his huge heart remains hidden beneath his stern assessments and forceful humor. I have deeply loved this child through thick and thin and admire the human being he has chosen to become.

When a mother is so invested in a child, it is quite difficult when life moves him farther and farther away. It is challenging to trust the world with him, and stressful waiting for him to have the loving family he deserves. I celebrate my son's life every day as he challenged me to be who I am today.

Altering Agendas

 

"The truth is outside of all fixed patterns."

Bruce Lee

Perhaps we come into this world with a lightly sketched outline. We might have particular lessons to be achieved resulting in an enhanced version of ourselves. As we experience life and develop personal patterns, we have the tendency to follow exclusive lifestyles that become limiting and mediocre. 

When we learn to trust our inner guidance and allow curiosity to expand awareness, we may veer off well planned mapping. The journey can become more exciting and less rigid. We may encounter situations that do not seem monumental but will later serve us well. Like a coloring book, there are images waiting to be colored, even outside of the lines.

Established patterns assist us in remaining focused, but how much more exciting if we carefully embellish the unknown. Stepping outside of the lines, refreshing perspectives renew our commitment to our goals and dreams. Our original agenda was loosely created allowing us to have freedom of choice, so why not use it? 

Chasing Butterflies

"If you spend your time chasing butterflies, they will fly away.

But if you spend your time building a garden then the

butterflies will come to you." 

The Conscious Observer

Research assists us in documenting our future agendas, but equal time is needed in cultivating our present moments. All we have is the here and now, so investing in the present moment is pivotal to our progress. There is an obligation to create with what is right before us, using what is readily available.

Rather than chasing what we want, we can utilize intuition and our simple revelations of knowing. When a well-planned outline is before us, but everything inside of us is screaming caution, attention needs to be given to these senses.  Whether a business plan or a creative project, situations are unique and must be adjusted accordingly.

Dreams and goals help us to navigate forward, but we need to begin now with what we have before us. Leaving ourselves open we experience unexpected breakthroughs and observe natural unfolding. Listen to the advice of others, but follow the innocent longing of the heart with expectations of achieving desires. 

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

 

Appalling ...

 

"Similarly, the impulse to keep to yourself what you have learned 

is not only shameful, it is destructive."

Annie Dillard

While scrolling through articles in hopes of discovering stimulating insights, I came across what I would call appalling suggestions. For new engagements, the author was encouraging people to keep to themselves, hide preferences, and to adapt a character for the situation. It actually said to protect yourself, so others do not know where to attack you.

Perhaps if you were in a threatening situation, there would be a need for this behavior, but if you are engaging with new people by choice, why be misleading? Being boastful is not welcomed, but sharing what you have learned and reflecting where your interests lay is helpful. Healthy, not deceptive conversations lead towards progress.

At some point inconsistencies will be noticed. When lying, it is nearly impossible to retain precise information originally shared. It is necessary at times to be evasive or vague about private matters, but that is different from deliberately projecting a false image. It is very discouraging to invest in a relationship only to learn it was built on falsehoods. 

Remain True

"Be bold enough to use your voice, brave enough to listen

to your heart, and strong enough to live the life you've always wanted."

My Positive Outlooks

Life is not easy and although dotted with beautiful unveilings, there are deep valleys and numerous hills to be climbed. In spite of confusion, one needs to continue moving forward looking for the light. Eventually, we will feel radiance upon our face and in our heart beckoning us forward to return to our unknown and perhaps unseen path. 

When we recall past accomplishments, we may forget the courage and bravery that had been required. Easily, we may remember the celebration, forgetting the angst we endured. Our strength is deepened as we use our voice and listen for clarity. If our perceptions become flexible, learning will expediate progress.

Moving forward is required whether or not our goal is established. We need to trust that we will find our way. Learning to remain mindful even in insecurity, an element of peace comes with surrender. We will never know all of the answers and change will consistently interrupt our agendas, but it will always be vital to remain true to who we are. 

 

Shapes and Forms of Divinity

 

"Across cultures and traditions, spiritual practices are used to tap into higher realms

of consciousness, allowing us to access guidance, insight, and a sense of connection

that goes far beyond everyday awareness."

Soul Seekers Path

At a young age. I became ecumenical. I was baptized Lutheran, attended a Roman Catholic school and lived in a Jewish neighborhood. In the city itself, I was exposed to discrepancies between people claiming to worship the one true God while everyone else would be going to hell. This led me to deep dives into religious exploration.

In future years, I would find myself in larger cities at bookstores seeking resources and would find them listed under Occult. As my age increased, so did my exposure to diverse humans with treasured stories. For me, it was never about right or wrong, but curiosity into the unknown possibilities. 

If we expose ourselves to spiritual realms that have been referenced throughout history, our minds expand ... not in acceptance or denial, but in knowledge. Through curiosity and search, we learn of diverse ways of experiencing life. Our connection with all peoples deepens and Divinity prevails in many shapes and forms.

Competence

 

"Change provides us with experiences that we convert to personal power."

Byllye Avery

We all have potential to become a more enhanced human. If we stop looking outside of ourselves, and inventory personal abilities, we will advance. To be clear, this is not about having power over others but empowering the self. The goal is not to be a duplicate of someone else but developing unique competence. 

When we discontinue efforts to meet someone else's agenda and use energy to strengthen who we are, a sense of freedom occurs. As we become fully ourselves, we attract others who can deeply connect with us. Flexibility becomes a dance with others rather than being oppressed and manipulated.

Everyone desires to be loved and accepted, but it should not come at the price of minimizing the spirit. Within each of us awaits a potential to be fluent with our skills. Unique applications to life not only improve us but assist others as well. We will feel worthy when we trust our inner spirit without needing validation from others.

Configurations

"We often think healing will return us to who we were before.

But healing doesn't go backwards. It introduces you to someone new."

Samantha King

Common sense tells us that something needs to be altered if we expect change. If we go back to what the situation was, error will repeat itself. When we are wounded, there is a tendency to want to return to the time prior to the experience. When we begin to heal, however, change becomes part of our progress.

Not only are we called to make changes physically, but there is also a need to shift how we think about things.  So, we adjust our wording from negative to positive. In addition, through meditation or spiritual visualization, we cover our lovely selves with light which connects us with the Divine.

In time, we can begin to realign. While examining parts of ourselves, we can shift their importance, both minimizing and maximizing. Understanding the lessons in our wounding, and believing that goodness awaits, we begin to reconfigure who we are.  With confidence, and open heartedness, we are propelled forward into new ways of being.

 

Flying Solo

 

"A mind that is stretched by new experience can never go back to its old dimensions."

Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.

Flying solo can be both intimidating, and exhilarating. Any time we are removed from our comfort zone, choices fall upon us that may be uncomfortable. There is safety in staying where we are known, but when we experience additional personal growth, there is a need to move forward and often times, alone.

Flying solo is not limited to a physical experience as much of the work is processed mentally and spiritually. If we want to know who we are or more of what we can be, it stands to reason that one must step away from the familiar. Taking flight, the blustering wind moves what we no longer need, and the elevation allows new views to be considered.

Flying solo is a matter of accountability. We must accept responsibility for our journey and be willing to experience new landscapes. If delays are being triggered by turbulent energy, we can recalibrate.  The most vibrant element is choice. We are in control and if we are not satisfied, then discover new flight patterns. 

 

Illumination

 

"Don't worry if you're making waves just by being yourself.

The moon does it all the time."

Scott Stabile

The full moon in May is called the Flower Moon which celebrates the return of flowers in the spring. As with every full moon, we inventory all that is ending to make space for our new beginnings. We become defeated if we plant new seeds in ill-prepared ground. It is time to weed out what is not taking root and plant our intentions into fertile ground.

In the power of the full moon, there is energy to sort out what is not resonating within us. It is time to let go of ideas that have grown stagnant. Fresh ideas and new adventures are moving towards us as the month unfolds, so preparation needs to be made. Change unfolds in creative thoughts, not in old stagnant thinking.  

Change is an ongoing process. Although it can be like a bolt of lightning, it often takes its time needing to be nurtured. The Flower Moon is a time for weeding out heaviness to enhance our chances of moving forward in carefully placed steps. A full moon shines on our progress, illuminating what works and what does not.