Uncharted Passageways!

"Keep some room in your heart for the unimaginable."

Mary Oliver

One of the best mantras I have ever heard is "this or something better" which can be used at the end of a prayer, intention, or expectation. We can be narrow minded, missing what is right before us. Rigidity in thinking, eliminates interpretations floating in front of us. The universe or the Divine utilizes creative expression and we too often miss it.

Immediate manifestation is rarely before us. With our limited view, we may not see far enough ahead to realize what we ask for is not what we need. Trust is required as jumping ahead with uncertainty may lead us farther away from our goal. Opening the mind with our desires rooted, faith for results abides.

We have the ability to be creative and think outside of the box, so why do we not utilize this feature? By expanding dream lines without knowing exactly how to orchestrate results, can attract that which we need. We don't need to have all of the answers. Open the thought process and let lofty thoughts escort us into uncharted passageways! 

 

Window Shopping in Life

 

 

"I don't want to end up simply having visited this world."

Mary Oliver

The word 'visit' sounds temporary, occurring upon the surface, not exploring in depth.  Even if it is an extended stay, unless we utilize all of our senses, we will have missed the authenticity waiting to be explored. It would be as though we were merely window shopping, missing the valuables situated within.

If we are reading a book, do we skip chapters or allow the knowledge to unfold?  If we are painting, do we sprawl color across a canvas and be done or do we complete it with highlights and shadows?  If we are at the beach, do we remain on the sand or do we wet our feet along the shore?

Specifically in this earthly experience, we have choices.  Do we want to stay simply on the surface unattached or stuck in the mire of regret and sorrow?  Do we take time to smell the fragrances and taste the beauty?  Do we listen to the whispers in nature and experience a deep sense of connection?  Life becomes alive with depth when we dance with others and share our stories. 

 

Beauty Triggers Connection

"Maybe the desire to make something beautiful 

is the piece of God that is inside each of us."

Mary Oliver

We limit our gifts to the world by believing we must be an established artist or published author or member of an orchestra prior to creative contribution.   This of course is a false perception.

The gardener dedicated to flowers, unknowingly produces benefits to others who happen to pass by.  The woman with a baby in a stroller attracts innocent emotion from those on the street.  The recognized impulse to reach out to assist one other also increases beauty in our world.

There is a spark within each of us reflecting our connection with Divine Spirit.  It is when we choose to take action with these prompts that we contribute to the creative spirit in the midst of all living things.  As we give the self permission to honor the natural gifts within, we honor the piece of God waiting for us to begin .

Just A Little Bit Wiser

 

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do

with your one wild and precious life?"

Mary Oliver

There was a time when there were multiple opportunities to talk to fellow human beings.  Maybe sharing a seat on the bus or train, sharing a table in a crowded cafe or waiting in a long line preparing to board a cruise ship or plane.

Unexpected conversations unfolded during these brief encounters and some how the shared stories impacted our hearts indefinitely.  There is documentation that it is easier to unveil our most difficult experiences to total strangers.  Perhaps it is that we know we will not be held accountable nor will we ever see this person again.

These brief interludes were like reading CLIFF NOTES referencing a very long history.  One was able to voice simple highlights skipping across years or unearth a dark secret never revealed.  These shared times would enhance both lives, making each one just a little bit wiser..

Acceptance and Safety

"It was what I was born for ...

to look, to listen, to lose myself

inside this soft world ...

to instruct myself

over and over ..."

Mary Oliver

The world seems to be climaxing through its obsession with greed, fear, power, materialism, and recognition without permanently feeling acceptance and safety.  Competition hopefully with be replaced by love and respect for each human being living on this earth.  We are all messengers to each other and if our extended information is of hate, fear, and disrespect, that is exactly what we will receive in return.  If we are consciously loving and kind to all peoples, the energy of loving kindness returns to us.  

We can be open and willing to speak our truth which aligns our energy, and brings peace and calm to our living experience.  Each of us hear our truth in our own way, perhaps, not always liking it, but learning from it.  When we release our addictions to beauty, wealth, and some level of fame, we become more aware of the beauty residing within all of us.  

Our focus turns to highlighting our authentic selves and the talents we can offer to the world.  Air brushing, cosmetic surgery, and dwelling in castles no longer hold charm.  Concentration is on using our skills to the best ability we can and if that brings us to high places we do not forget those still struggling.  We extend helping hands to everyone to share in life's experience rather than distancing ourselves and repressing others.

These ideas reside in our minds, but regrettably our noisy and competitive world drowns out our messages. It is difficult to remain on course, but indeed, it is what we are here to do.  We must remind ourselves constantly ... to look, to listen, and to lose ourselves inside the softer parts of life.  When we remember to love and respect our lovely selves, we will feel accepted and safe.