Reflection

Today, on the last day of the year, emotions are mixed. There is gratefulness for all the blessings of the last year, sadness/happiness for days gone by, anticipation of what is to come, etc. Change is in the air. Resolutions are made (or not) and life goes on.

As you count your blessings and cheer in the New Year, whether in company or not, take a moment for yourself and be good to yourself (for example: say something nice to yourself, praise yourself). There is only one you and you are special. Happy New Year.

Moment Of Peace

Once everyone has gone to bed, the house is quiet. Peaceful. And all is well. Take a deep breath and enjoy that moment, enjoy the peace, enjoy it's wholeness.

Tomorrow is another day...

Alternatives

Persevere when one way doesn't work. There are always alternative approaches, new perspectives, and different paths to take. When you feel you are in a dead end street, look closer, turn around a bit, look up, do something different. You will find that the path does, after all, continue.  :)

Feeling Alive

Do you feel alive, truly alive? You do feel alive when you are completely in the moment, when the present moment is all that matters.

If you don't feel alive, step out of your comfort zone. That will zoom you back into the now from wherever you are.

Be You

"By being yourself, you put something beautiful into the world that wasn't there before." by Edwin Elliot

You are a beautiful, unique person. Your uniqueness makes this world a better place when you are you, when you share your gifts, when you shine your light. Be you, now and always.  :)

Simplify

Simplify your life. The more stuff you have, the more you need to take care of and think of. Consider letting go of things that are weighing you down. Take a look in the basement, garage, closets, anywhere you 'hide' things and give yourself permission to cut your emotional tie to all these objects you are holding on to. You will feel a lot lighter when it's done.

Count Your Successes

Count your successes at the end of the day. No matter what your day bore, there are always positive things you have accomplished. Many of us have the tendency to rehash issues, unresolved situations, things you could have done better. Why not focus on what you did do, did accomplish, did well?

Everything counts, even something as simple as making yourself a cup of tea (where you are taking a minute to be good to yourself, to breathe and relax!). Count your successes, pay attention to all the good you do, to all the good in your life.  :)

Thank You*

During this holiday season I am deeply thankful for family and friends, for all the special moments shared, for the laughs and the tears, the hikes and the kayaking, the hugs and the love. Thank you to all of you who have made my life complete. Because of you I am who I am today, and I am deeply grateful. Love and light to everyone who has touched my life. You are forever a part of me. :)

Friends

Having a same gender support/friend group is a true blessing in anyone's life. Knowing that someone is there to have your back when the going gets tough, as well as to simply have an easy, fun time is priceless. Cherish the time you get to spend with them, nurture your friendship(s), and know you are blessed.

Honor Your Time

There are some days when there are too many things you could do. Even if they are fun things to do, too many are too many. There is a point after which the fun is gone and you are stressed. Be mindful of that tipping point and let go of what is too much. Enjoy what you do end up doing doubly, because you honored your time and thus honored yourself. :)

Trust

"The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them." by Ernest Hemingway

Give the benefit of the doubt. If you let fear/caution rule you before you even begin a human interaction, there is no where to go and you become your own prisoner. So not only will you learn if the person is trustworthy, but more importantly, you are opening your world to life as a whole.

YOU

Confidence shines through you when you feel it. Believing yourself trumps everything else. When you believe yourself (not just IN yourself!), everything else will fall in line. When you are you, you are the best you can be. And there is no better place.

Knowledge

Do we come into this world with or without knowledge? If we are a spark of God/made in the likeness of God, then isn't knowledge already a part of us when we enter this world?

When you listen to your gut, aren't you listening to your divine essence? Are there times where you just know something without having learned it? Food for thought...

Don't Give Up

"Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is to try one more time." by Thomas Edison

Isn't that the beauty of life? You CAN always try one more time. Maybe in a different way, in a different form, but there are always alternatives, new ways of doing things, innovative ways of giving it one more shot.

Instead of giving up, put your imagination to work, change your perspective, and come up with a new altered plan. And then go for it.

To Succeed

In order to succeed in anything you need to fully commit to your goals and believe in yourself. Hesitation, procrastination, and wavering will confuse and thus slow down your process and progress.

When you find yourself stalling, reassess your situation. Ask yourself:  Are you committed? Do you believe in what you are doing and in yourself? What fears are steering you off course? Your answers will help you gain clarity and get back on track.

Life As A Pilgrimage

A pilgrimage is defined as a journey, especially a long one, made to some sacred place as an act of religious devotion. An additional definition (by dictionary.com) is 'any long journey, especially one undertake as a quest or for a votive purpose, as to pay homage'.

If you think on it, life in a way is a pilgrimage or even made of multiple pilgrimages. Whether you are devoting yourself to your kids, or committing to a career or focusing on your personal journey, or writing daily insights, etc, you have a purpose you are committing and devoting yourself to. So what are you devoted to? :)

Let It Be

There are days where you may not be quite sure as to why certain things have happened in your day. On those days remember that there is a purpose that simply eludes you and that is okay. This is where faith and trust in God (a higher power, whatever that may be for you) and in yourself come in.

Instead of agonizing on how to figure out things, use the time to let them be and trust. Make peace within yourself. Not everything can be rationalized and all is well as it is. Accept what is without judgement and allow life to evolve.

Compassion

Feeling compassion for yourself is the only way to develop true compassion for others.

Subtle Dance

Not all people feel comfortable talking issues through. So how do you resolve challenges?

The most important thing is to be clear where you stand, what works for you and what doesn't. Then it is not about enforcing your method, nor is it about succumbing to the other person's approach. It is about entering into a subtle dance where you find a third way that is acceptable to both.

Whole

Friendships come and go. It is not always clear what moves and shakes human interactions. While we can philosophize and talk about how we are mirrors for each other and how we need each other, when an end draws near, the parting is seldom peaceful.

However, instead of getting lost in the sensations and emotions, which will guarantee a painful break, the one thing that will help you part peacefully or maybe even make amends, is to go inward and ask yourself:

Why are you in this friendship?
What makes you hold on to it?
What are you afraid to loose?
Then ask:
Are you being true to yourself,
are you honoring yourself,
are you being all that you can be?
Are you reliving/recreating a lesson to be learned?
Where are your boundaries and your limits (you need to take care of you first and foremost)?
What serves you in this relationship and what doesn't?

It helps to take an overall look, not just focus on the current tangled, emotional state. Look at the whole friendship history. Answering these questions will give you clarity and peace in the end. You will know where you stand, how you can support yourself and how to proceed. In any relationship, you can only be the best you are and by being your best you are giving others the opportunity to shine their light too. Whether they choose to shine their light with you or not is not up to you, but you will find that you can be whole with AND without their light.

The Big Picture

When you are working on resolving something in your life and you feel like you are spinning your wheels, take a step back out of the situation. Then look at it in the context of your life and how it fits into the big picture, into YOUR big picture.

This shift in perspective will help you make a more grounded, less emotional decision, take a more grounded approach, one that is true to who you are and where you want to be.

Join The Flow Of Life

The one thing you can count on is that life moves on. Whether you choose to live in the past, present, or future, time moves forward and life goes on. Though the pull to the past and the future can be very powerful and all consuming, notice how you truly only feel alive when you are in the present moment.

In the present you combine all your senses, the whole of your physical being with your emotions and your mind to form something tangible, something that can fulfill your whole being and morph as it needs to, morph with you as life moves on. Join the flow of life.

Perfect

You are perfect just the way you are. Perfect in your imperfection. Perfect in your light.

See the good and the bad in yourself. Find your pillar of strength in this self knowledge. Draw from this strength. As you do you are feeding trust back into yourself, which turns into inner strength, which you can draw from again, thus creating a positive self sustaining growth cycle.

Shifting Tension

When you are around someone who is irritated or angry, instead of joining in the irritation/anger and making it personal, ask him/her how he/she is doing/feeling or how his/her day is going. You'll be surprised how, more often than not, it diffuses the tension. You are giving the other person a "safe" way to release some pent up personal emotion and thus the interaction becomes more positive again.

F.L.Y.

F.L.Y. stands for 'First Love Yourself'.

If you want to learn how to fly you need to do just that!  :)

Fun Loving Energy

The fun loving energy of youth is intoxicatingly good. The great thing is that this fun loving energy is not just for the young. There is a well of it in all of us, no matter what the age. As you get older you might use it less or even forget that it is there, but all it needs is to be uncovered and tapped into again.

A great way to feel it again is to simply be around younger people. For example, if you have teenagers, it is as simple as volunteering to drive them to where they want to go. They often naturally exude this type of energy. Then, when you feel it, locate it within you and reach back in whenever you feel like it. :)

Canvas

"The world is but a canvas for our imagination." by Henry David Thoreau

This is so true! Your imagination creates your reality which is realized in the world. Make the most of your canvas with your thoughts. What do you want your canvas to look like?

Remove Unsettledness

When you are removed from your center, you feel unsettled/uneasy/restless/anxious/not you. How can you get back to your center? The best way is to get grounded. This means do something physical like taking conscious breaths, going for a walk/hike/bike ride, walk barefoot in the grass, etc. It will bring you back to your root, to your being, and will provide you with a renewed perspective and positive attitude.

Loneliness

"You cannot be lonely if you like the person you're alone with." by Wayne Dyer

When you are at peace with yourself, who you are, you don't need anything or anyone else to make you whole. Loneliness is a self-perceived lack within oneself.

Next time you feel lonely ask yourself what you are missing. You know you have the answer when you feel whole again, when you don't feel lonely anymore. Being alone can be a wonderful thing, a very fulfilling state of being without loneliness.

Brain Washing Yourself

Do you give yourself pep talks about how good your life is? When you have to convince yourself that you are happy it is a sure sign that, despite all the good things/people that surround you, you are not.

This is very hard to admit to oneself. It is a type of brain washing you do to yourself which leads to denial of your essence and thus the disassociation from who you are.

The good news is that once you see what you are doing, you can change it, if you choose to do so. Awareness is always the first step toward change. How you talk to yourself tells you a lot about how in tune you are with yourself.

The Core

"If you can't explain it simply, you don't understand it well enough." by Albert Einstein

I love this quote! Simplicity and clarity is the way to teach/explain anything. It shows that you know the core of the subject, the one thing that matters. Everything else can fall away because it is not important.

This is the same when it comes to you. When you know your core all pieces fall into place and you gain clarity.

The Voice Within

"If you hear a voice within you say 'you can't paint', then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced." by Vincent Van Gogh

Everyone has that little voice of doubt and nay-saying within themselves. If it is what you want to do though, just do it. That voice is fear based and grows larger the more you believe in it. So the best way to dissolve it is, indeed, to simply do it!

Helping Hand

No matter who you are, there are always people out there who genuinely care about you, who will make it a point to lend you a helping hand when you need it. 

Two things that have to come from you are:

1. you need to ask for that helping hand when you need it (let others in - you are not alone)

2. accept the helping hand when it is offered (it is okay to be vulnerable - everyone has been there).

Love Or Lack Of Bravery

Do you do what you do because you love it or because you aren't brave? This is something you might want to ask yourself once in a while. If you love what you do you are in the right place. If it is lack of courage that keeps you from doing what you love then it might be worth your time to dig deep and find your courage and assess what it is you do want to do.

Happy Thanksgiving*

Happy Thanksgiving

Today is a day to remember everything we are thankful for. It reminds me to, that this should not be limited to one day a year, but something to do every day of the year.

What about committing, for onr year, to express your thanks once a day in one form or another? It is as simple as telling yourself once a day "I am thankful for...". What do you think?

Say How You Feel

Always have the courage to say how you are feeling. Mastering to verbalize your feelings entails getting to the source of you, to the source of the emotions within you. If you feel like blaming others for what you feel you are on the wrong path and whatever you say then will hurt you and others, while simply stating how YOU feel, without expectations and finger pointing can be constructive and more conducive to resolution and healing.

Pain

When you are in physical pain you realize how much you take life for granted when all is well! It is easy to get impatient and to take pills to make it all go away. What do you do though when that doesn't help either or isn't available?

Pain is your body's way of talking to you when something isn't in balance. Work on listening to your pain. Pain awakens lots of fears. Face your fears and feel into your pain. Mentally/emotionally fighting your pain does increase your pain level.

Note: this is not intended to be any kind of medical advice or substitute for medical assistance.

Sparkle

Today I was refurbishing and older crystal chandelier. As I fixed links, added crystals and cleaned the crystals, slowly but surely it went from this ratty looking thing to a classy sparkling beauty. The transformation was stunning.

A little bit of care and attention can make all the difference in the world. Neglect over longer periods of time can really do a number not only on objects but also on people. However the essence always remains and can be brought back to full shine with a little love and care.

So give a little love and care to someone (maybe even yourself!) today and bring back that sparkle. You'll find it shining brighter than you thought possible.

Give Space And Time

Everyone learns in their own space and time, which makes sense given that we are all individuals. If we can learn to give that space and time to others and to ourselves, then the world be a better place. Expectations surrounding when and how things need to happen cause strain and strife that are unnecessary.

Giving Time

New ideas and suggestions can take others aback. When this happens, it means that whatever you said is triggering something in them that makes them unsure and/or uncomfortable.

Once you know that they heard what you said, give them space to think it through on their on and let go of it.  You have done your part and whether they agree with it or not is out of your hands at that point. Revisit the topic again when the other person is ready to do so.

This approach can be quite productive when you are not pressed for time.

Teenage Transformations

Reunions are such sweet gatherings, especially when your oldest comes back from college for the first time after several months. The changes you see are amazing. The amount of growing kids go through during their first months is astounding and so rewarding to see.

While relationships with teenagers become strained, because they are striving and longing to become independent, they become closer again once they have gotten a taste of 'real life' away from home, making them appreciate home again, which in turn makes all the 'hard times' worth a while.  :)

Giving Space & Support

As a youth, when you go through troubled times, things seem huge. The emotions are all new and it can feel very overwhelming. Social pressure is high and the thought of not fitting in is absolutely frightening. 

Though it is not easy to watch as a parent, you also have to give them space to find their own way. Be supportive as much as you can and as much as they let you, and be aware that it is their lesson to learn. Take it easy on giving advice. I believe it is best given when asked for. Otherwise just love them unconditionally and let them know the door open for them should they need you. Knowing that you support them always helps.

Your Path

When you are searching for your path you might be surprised to find that you knew all along where it was - you were just afraid of it, not quite ready to step into those shoes.

How do you know you are on your path? When all the pieces fit and you feel good to your bones about what you are doing.

Though it still might be a bit scary, more than anything it is exciting and invigorating when you embrace who you are and where you are going. No matter what the outcome is you are on your way.

Clear The Slate

Most of the time our days are shaped by what we imagine them to be in advance, reliving the same patterns over and over again. And most of the time we do this unconsciously. We have a tendency to anticipate outcomes based on past experiences which in turns makes us relive those experiences over and over again in various forms.

Today, put your intentions into at least clearing the slate and opening up to new experiences. While you are the creator of your reality, make sure, if you are not used to creating consciously. to become aware and change your pattern. Clearing your slate is one step toward change.

Tools

You are an individual. Though we are all one, we still have personal preferences, process things differently and have maybe even opposing points of view. All this is what adds spice to life and makes this world more colorful.

When it comes to self-help, there are many, many tools out there for you to choose, This doesn't mean that they are all for you. Find the ones that works for you, the ones that will be most beneficial to your personal growth. Be open in the process too to tools that you wouldn't usually veer towards. Just because it is unknown, doesn't mean that it isn't for you. It might just be the magic wand you were looking for.  :)

Give It A Shot

Is there something in your life that you have been meaning to do, but for whatever reason haven't?Why not make today that day that you grab the bull by the horns and just do it? Even if just for today?

Put aside whatever reasons you have and take the plunge today. If it is a long term project, even one time is more than none. And who knows, you might be inspired to add another day and then maybe even another. Give it a shot, one way or another. There is no better time than the present and you'll be glad you did.  :)

Frustration

Frustration occurs when you feel out of control. So when you feel frustrated, take a deep breath and ask yourself: "What can I do to change/alter/influence the situation?". The answer is not always obvious and sometimes there is nothing you can do, but even just realizing that you can choose to let it go and leave it, instead of stewing over it, is better than being stuck in the frustration.

If there is something you can do, do it. And if not, let it go. Both are actions and both will make you feel better and dissolve the frustration.

Happy Thoughts Exercise

When you feel negative thoughts crowding your head and you are tired of it, try the following exercise:

Get a piece of paper and something to write on. Write "HAPPY THOUGHTS" on top of the page. While you go about your day think of things that make you happy, things that make you smile. Start looking around you and see if there is anything that makes you smile. Then write it down. Focus on the next happy memory, thought, feeling, etc. Then write it down again. Continue doing this. Your whole mood and demeanor will shift. Guaranteed!

The great thing too is that once you record these "things" you can always go back to them. Collect them and go back to them when you need a boost.  :)

Snow Fall*

"The first fall of snow is not only an event, it is a magical event. You go to bed in one kind of a world and wake up in another quite different, and if this is not enchantment then where is it to be found?" by J.B. Priestley

Today we had our first snowfall of the season and it always does feel magical to me. Seeing the snowflakes come down quietly, softly, transforming the landscape with its blanket of white gives you a sense of peace and quiet. It feel pure and untouched.

Though it is always tied to cold temperatures, enjoy the peace that comes with it.  Feel the magic in the air! :)

Change Of Dreams

As you keep pealing off your onion layers to get to your core, you might find along the way that your dreams and aspirations change, sometimes dramatically. First of all, be reassured that this is normal. Second, embrace your new destination. It is not only okay, but the path to you/your core.

Switch Things Around

Sometimes it is fun to switch things around. For example, making breakfast food for dinner. Shaking up routines spices up your life. Try it!

Music

"Without music, life would be a mistake." by Friedrich Nietzsche

Music can sway the soul. Music is resonance. When you find the one you resonate with you find energy that can amplify you, soothe you, heal you, re-center you, energize you. It is something you can identify with. Music can lift your spirits and it can transcend you into a different space & time.

A life without music is hard to imagine. Thus enjoy it! Treat yourself to music today (if you don't already do it on a regular basis!). :)

Flexibility

"In three words I can sum up everything I have learned about life: It goes on." by Robert Frost

In a way that is the one strange and amazing thing about life. No matter what, it does go on. It has to. That is just the way it is. If any one of us was indispensable that would mean that life couldn't go on without that person. That, however, is not the nature of things. Nature does go on and adjusts.

And maybe, that is just the miracle of life: Flexibility and constant change. 

Apache Blessing

Today I would like to share with you an Apache Blessing. I love how it blends nature with human nature. Enjoy!

"May the sun bring you new energy by day,
May the moon softly restore you by night,
May the rain wash away your worries,
May the breeze blow new strength into your being,
May you walk gently through the world and know it's beauty all the days of your life."

Things We Love

"The things that we love tell us what we are." by Thomas Aquinas

What a wonderful, thought inspiring quote! What do you love? Take inventory and see what it says about you. Have fun!

Embrace Your Dream

When you know what your passion is, what is it truly that is standing between you and your dream? Usually they are fears and excuses, that are keeping you from your dream. When you really look closely they are imagined barriers. When you live your dream, anything is possible.

If you are lucky enough to know what your passion/dream is, pursue it. Follow your heart and take the leap.

Moonlight

Everyone has sat out at one point or another and lifted their face to sun, soaking up the rays, the warmth, the pure energy. Have you ever done the same with the moon?

Get cozy sometime watching a moon rise (full moon or close to it if possible) and see what you feel. It is a wonderful experience. Moonlight is soothing, calming, nurturing, and healing. Soak it up and infuse your being with this loving energy. :)

Stretching

Stretching is a wonderful thing. It doesn't just do your muscles, ligaments and joints (in short your whole body) a world of good, but it can also take care of aches and pains that creep up on you as you get older. Make it a part of your daily routine. You'll be glad you did.  :)

Empty Nest

Once your little birds are out of the nest it is time for you to fly too. It is wise to spend some time pondering where you want to fly to before the time comes and even start flexing those wings some, before the nest is empty. It will help everyone transition more smoothly.

Serious Plans

"Mix a little foolishness with your serious plans. It is lovely to be silly at the right moment." by Horace

A little reminder to keep laughter in sight when life gets too serious. It balances beautifully!

Looks

"I have never known a really chic woman whose appearance was not, in large part, an outward reflection of her inner self." by Mainbocher

Never underestimate what inner beauty can do for your outer beauty! With society putting so much emphasis on outer looks, it is easy to loose focus of what really matters and what is most important. "Fixing the outside look" becomes an obsession. Isn't it odd that when you start focusing on the exterior though, the interior suffers, which in turn affects your exterior negatively?

Even when it comes to looks, looking inward is a great way to help your exterior light shine bright.

Happy Halloween!

Be safe and have fun tonight! Happy Halloweeeeeen to everyone! :)

The Choice

When it comes to your life, it is only you who can choose which path to walk on. You can ask for reassurance, advice, and support, but the choice is yours.

Just Because...

Today, do something nice for someone, just because. There doesn't need to be a special reason to surprise someone with a gift of any kind. Be spontaneous and follow your gut, whatever comes to mind. What you give always comes back to you multiplied.

Stay Centered

If you are an empath and sense other people's emotions, it is important to stay in your own center and to trust, first and foremost, your emotions/senses. Interactions with other people are not only played out in words. Body language and intuition play a big role too, usually even a bigger one than the verbal aspect, which is only the front.

When you stay in your center you will gain a clearer understanding of the full picture.

To Grow Or Not To Grow...

What if we are not here on earth to grow our soul? What if we are perfect as we are and here to let our perfect light shine? How would that change your everyday reality?

According to Neale Donald Walsh (author of "Conversations with God") this is exactly what we are here to do. It sure takes off a lot of pressure and lets you have a heart centered approach to life. What do you think?

Tools

Every person's path is different from another. Though there may be similarities, each is unique. There is no 'one size fits all'. Instead of following in other people's footsteps, it makes more sense to accumulate tools that help you on your path (which can definitely include other people's experiences and wisdom) and use those tools as needed for you. With your tools you can customize your personal path and make it work for you.

Your Path

All of us know what path our souls want to take. If you believe you don't know, odds are that you are choosing not to see it because it causes you fear. Seeing your path entails looking fear straight in the eye, which means looking at everything you don't like about yourself within yourself. There is no way around it.

When you choose to look, you will see what needs to be done. It may take time to gather the courage to do what you know you need to do, but looking/acknowledging is the first step.

Perfection Quote

"Have no fear of perfection - you will never reach it." by Salvador Dali

This quote makes me smile. Whenever you are under a lot of pressure, whether self induced or not, remember this quote. All you can do is the best you can and that is all you need to focus on. :)

Finality

Is anything ever truly final? As humans we like to label things, set ultimatums and absolutes, but how real are they? If you believe in life after death, even death isn't final. Based on quantum physics, what we perceive as being solid isn't solid. Everything is energy. It continually changes form over time.

So instead of something being final, isn't change the more constant of the two?

Eliminate Fear

"Fear comes from uncertainty; we can eliminate the fear within us when we know ourselves better." by Bruce Lee

Here is yet another reason why it is important to know yourself and why you are choosing the path of self-discovery. Eliminating fear within will lead to inner balance and peace. :)

Awake

"To be awake is everything." by Gustave Meyrink

When you succumb to routine, it is like you are going through life asleep. Awake and live, right here right now. :)

Step

Any step, no matter how small, in the right direction is a success!

Motherhood

This is for all you moms!!!

"Motherhood is a great honor and privilege, yet it is also synonymous with servanthood. Every day women are called upon to selflessly meet the needs of their families. Whether they are awake at night nursing a baby, spending their time and money on less-than-grateful teenagers, or preparing meals, moms continuously put others before themselves." by Charles Stanley

I think every mom can relate to this in one way or another. As you give to all members of the family make sure you give to yourself too. You are equally important!

Happiness Defined

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn or consumed. Happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace, and gratitude." by Denis Waitley

I love this definition of happiness and thus wanted to share it with you.  Enjoy!

Set Intentions

Setting your intentions for the day can turn your whole day around for the better. Make sure to let the outcome be what it may. What is important is for you to enjoy the process.  :)

Expectations

"Expectation is the root of all heartache." by William Shakespeare

When your expectations aren't met you invariably are disappointed, sad, angry, upset, etc.  Does that mean that you shouldn't have expectations? Not at all. As long as expectations are mutual, things can be worked out. Expectations that are mute and produced in you by your standards are the ones that can cause heartache. They are unfulfilled personal needs that you want others to fill for you.

Every Moment

"Every moment is a fresh beginning." by T.S. Eliot

Isn't this a refreshing perspective? It opens up possibilities at all times. You can change things if you like. It is up to you to seize the moment.

Kindness

"Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see." by Mark Twain

Kindness indeed is a universal language, one that everyone understand, one that warms your heart when accepted. Today give and accept kindness. Be the teacher and pupil of this universal language. :)

Make A Wish

Take a few minutes and see if you can answer this: If you could ask for one wish from the angels for yourself, what would it be?

Formulate it in one short sentence and keep it to only one wish. Then do send it to the angels. See what happens.  :)

Opinions

"We cling to our own point of view, as though everything depended on it. Yet our opinions have no permanence; like autumn and winter, they gradually pass away." by Chuang Tzu

Wise words! Think of how you have changed over time and how your opinions change as your perspective and experiences change. Next time you get stuck on "being right" think of these words and ask yourself: Is it really worth it?

Magic

"Magic is believing in yourself, if you can do that. antyhing can happen." by Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe

This is so true. You are limitless if only you believe in yourself!

Shoot For The Stars

"If you shoot for the stars and hit the moon, it's OK. But you've got to shoot for something. A lot of people don't even shoot." by Confucious

Have a goal. Though it may change, you are moving into directed action, which is necessary for anything to manifest.

Experience Duality

"Experience life in all possible ways -- good-bad, bitter-sweet, dark-light, summer-winter. Experience all the dualities. Don't be afraid of experience, because the more experience you have, the more mature you become." by Osho

Dualities are facets of each other and complete each other. To truly grow you need to experience both sides. There is no light without dark.

Evoke Change

A great way to evoke change in your life is to start deep cleaning your house. Your home is, in a way, your physical representation. When you start the deep cleaning process you take a closer look and clear "cob webs" that have been around for a while, making room for new energy to come in, for change to happen.

Approach this process with a positive attitude. You will then attract positive energy.  :)

Refresh Your Connection

As I was sitting here blogging, my internet connection kept turning on and off frequently. I need to keep refreshing the connection.  That is exactly how it sometimes is with your connection to yourself...some days you are connected and everything is running smoothly, while other days you need to continually "refresh your connection".

On those days, when things aren't running as smoothly, persevere and patiently reconnect. It will make the bond to yourself stronger.

Unique?

Though your experience of a challenging situation may be unique, the basic lesson isn't. No matter how much you may feel that your situation is unique, it is not. The details of the manifestation might be, but the bottom line of it all is more common than you might think.

You have a choice to be isolated or to reach out to others. If you choose to open up, others will open to you too. Even if they don't right away, you are brave in opening up and are strengthening yourself by not hiding.

You are not alone in this world. We are all here to further ourselves and each other. We are, indeed, all one.

Treat Yourself

Do you have something precious that you are saving for a special occasion, like a beautiful set of dishes, a valuable necklace, etc? How long have you had it? How often have you used it? When will you use it?

Give yourself the okay to take these beautiful items out and enjoy them! There is no time like the now and you deserve it! You are special, so why not treat yourself? Shake things up a bit and give yourself some variety. Make every day count.  :)

Conditioning

Conditioning is key to persevering and succeeding in sports and life. Tactics and skill are not enough.

Speak Up

Speaking up is a good thing. It stops you from keeping everything in and having it fester. Do it from a heart centered space and all will be well.

Just Be

As the temperatures get cooler, make it a point to go outside at least once a day with the purpose of taking some deep breaths and being in the moment. While you are taking your breaths look at the trees, the sun or moon & stars, the sky and anything else that catches your eye. Pay attention to those things that you usually don't have time for and just be. It will make you feel good instantly.

Yogi Wisdom

Here is today's Yogi tea bag wisdom that caught my attention:

"To learn, read. To know, write. To master, teach."

Though they look like three different things, they are also in order and build on each other. To varying degrees most of us do all three. When it comes to realizing your goals, your dreams, where are you are? What could you do more of?

Choose The Pace

If you feel you are being rushed by someone, make the choice to slow things down and take the time to understand what is going on. Mistakes can easily happen when things are rushed. Do what is comfortable for you. Let go of limiting beliefs and do what it takes for you to be comfortable with the situation. You can choose the pace of interactions.

Emotional Walls

Everyone has experienced getting hurt by someone else. Many choose to build "emotional walls" to shield themselves from similar occurrences. What happens though is that you isolate yourself behind these walls and you end up in a self imposed prison. Behind these walls you are still nursing your wound, terrified of facing this emotion again, which also means that you aren't working through it, which in turn leads to this 'vulnerability' growing out of proportion to the original happening and becoming a huge obstacle, a dragon you can't get past.

Building a wall is counterproductive to healing. It only increases the pain and suffering. Do yourself a favor and work through your hurt. Though it is unpleasant at the moment, it teaches you, helps you grow and frees up your future to endless possibilities and joys.

Add Love

Put love into what you do. Even a simple task like putting oil on your wooden doors can be done with care and full attention. It is a great way to practice adding love to everything.  :)

Trust Yourself

Trust your instinct. If you feel that something is out of balance, act on it. There are always plenty of impulses and thoughts that will rationalize away your gut instinct. No matter what though respond to what you feel. Check it out for your own peace of mind and then work with it.

Bliss

Experiencing perfect bliss is just that: bliss. It doesn't take anything special. It can be as simple as a feeling of accomplishment, mixed with a knowing that the Universe is in tune with you and you with it, as well as a deep, profound feeling that everything is all right in this moment.

And then the realization of this wonderful alignment simply can make your day. Take it in and enjoy it when it happens. That is what life is all about.  :)

Deep Cleaning

Deep cleaning on any level (physical, emotional, mental, etc) is cleansing for the soul. Deep cleaning implies tackling those spots you have been ignoring or glossing over. Persevere when it is not going as well or as fast as you wish. It has taken time for it to build up. Love, patience, energy and time will prevail and renew you and/or your environment.  :)

Everybody Is A Genius

"Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid." by Albert Einstein

Every single person has gifts, strengths that are specific to that person. Measuring a person against his own strengths is productive, while measuring the same person against his weaknesses, is demoralizing.

See the good in people and nurture their strengths. That includes yourself too.  :)

Agony?

Do you ever find yourself agonizing over things? When you do, ask yourself: "Is my agonizing over this helping the situation?" If the answer is 'yes' then by all means, continue to agonize.  If it is 'no' though, stop agonizing. If whether you do or don't doesn't influence the outcome then give yourself a break, acknowledge the situation, but don't add agony to it.  Sometimes things just are. You can still be happy despite all of it.

Life Is Good

"Do what you like. Like what you do." is what is written on every 'Life is good" shirt. When you follow the first two sentences, invariably the third is bound to be and/or become real should you feel that it isn't already so.  :)

Be Patient With Your Pet

Just like people, pets have fears. Some develop over time for no apparent reason. Be patient with and loving towards your pet when such things happen (even if it is in the middle of the night). They are always there for you and they are so grateful!

Nurture Peace

For the next five minutes, turn off your TV, computer, coffee machine, electronics, car, phone, etc. Take a deep breath and listen to the silence. Focus on yourself, look inward with no thought. Simply infuse peace. Take the silence and let it go through you. Feel yourself, feel life in you, feel life thrumming through you.

This is a great way to center yourself and to gain a centered perspective. When you find life pulling you in a million directions or you are inundated by electronics and their constant lure, bless yourself with a few minutes of peace. In the end you essence is all that matters. Be in touch with yourself. Nurture your inner peace.

Ask Questions

Too often people are afraid to ask questions or choose not to ask questions. Misunderstandings and hurt feelings are the result. Choosing communication is such an easy way to avoid all of this. Set fears aside and choose to communicate. Be a part of life.

You Matter

Today, I just want to say: YOU MATTER TO ME! Thank you for being you and for being here sharing these lines with me. But most of all I want you to know that you are never alone. You do matter to someone. :)

Thoughtful Gift

A thoughtful gift can fill the heart with joy and gratitude and become a symbol of a cherished memory. It doesn't have to be expensive. It can be something as simple as an empty wine bottle filled with sand and shells collected during a vacation by a friend for you.

Share a thoughtful gift and brighten someone's day.  :)

Choices

No matter what situation you are in, you ALWAYS have choices. Remembering this little fact can take you from a position of helplessness to one of empowerment. What do YOU choose?

Abundance

When abundance is flowing in your life share it. It increases your inner abundance and fills you with joy while spreading joy and abundance to others.  :)

Peace

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

Peace is felt deep within your heart. Let is spread from there. Nurture the feeling and grow it outward from your center. Let it enter every cell and radiate out from you to others.

What Do You See?

"It's not what you look at that matters it is what you see." by Henry David Thoreau

Your interpretation of what you look at and thus see is what forms your reality. Isn't it interesting that, for example, even though two people may look at the moon at the same time the impression it leaves on each person is a different one? One might be inspired and infused, while the other feels cold and alone. Same moon, different outcomes.

And through it all, does it change the moon?  Not at all. It is just a moon that waxes and wanes. It is not good or bad. It just is. And isn't it the same with life in the end?

Measuring Yourself

Refrain from comparing yourself to others. It is much more productive to measure yourself against yourself.  That is the only true way to measure change and progress.

Choices And Consequences

When your child comes to you with an issue that they created, such as having forgotten a take home test, remembering it Sunday night at 10 pm and it is due first thing the next morning, what do you do? Do you lecture him to be more responsible? Do you solve the problem for him? Do you let him solve it himself?

I chose to let him take the lead as to what he thought should be done and then discussed it with him until we came up with a reasonable solution where he took full responsibility for his actions, accepted the consequences, and where we both felt good about the solution.

Though he made a mistake, I am proud of him for owning his mistake, for trusting and sharing it with me, and for coming up with a solution. I am glad I stopped myself from lecturing him. He felt really bad about it and was already hard enough on himself. In the end it was a positive learning experience for both of us. :)

Happy Birthday

On your birthday, make sure that you celebrate yourself. This is your day, so do what makes you happy. It is wonderful to be alive and be privileged to grow (also in years... :) ). Make it YOUR Happy Birthday.  :)

Candle Light

There is something very soothing, calming, and soft about candlelight. Light candles for yourself for some nurturing alone time. Add some music to it if it feels right and relax into the moment.

Take Care Of Those Who Count On You

When it comes to the health of those who depend on you, trust your gut and when in doubt, go to the doctor anyway. For example, dogs cannot talk to you and tell you how they feel, but you can notice subtle changes in their behaviour and attitudes. If you feel something isn't right, honor that instinct.

Easy Shifting Exercise

Find a quiet place outdoors today, either in the morning or evening, one that you have never been in before. Sit down, breathe the air, still your mind, and open yourself up to your 'new' environment. Let this new perspective infuse and inspire you, or at least re-energize you.

The change in physical locality, as well as the new perspective in Mother Nature (even if it is just in the school garden!) is refreshing, centering, and eye opening when you open to it. You will feel a shift in you. :)

Fun And Success

"People rarely succeed unless they are having fun in what they are doing." by Dale Carnegie

And I would like to add that even if they do succeed without having fun, it is extremely hard & energy draining for them to sustain this type of success.

Though you may not have been taught to have fun to be successful, it is a very crucial concept and stepping stone for achieving success, one that may take some time to get used to, but one that will definitely improve your life.

Insight For Challenging Times

Whenever you find you are sad or going through a more challenging time, then read this excerpt from Marianne Williamson's book 'Everyday Grace'. I find it inspiring, hopeful, and soothing:

"So it is that the modern mystic when experiencing the heartbreak of life does not avoid the heartbreak nor try to distance from it in the name of spirituality, mental health or anything else. Enlightenment does not consist of pretending to be where we are not. Enlightenment means being in touch with where we are and being willing to learn what God would have us learn from it. Sometimes the purpose of a day is merely to feel our sadness knowing that as we do we allow whole layers of grief, like old skin cells, to drop off us.  The wisdom that comes from having experienced heartbreak cannot be bequeathed. It can only be gained through experience, and having truly felt it we are far more likely to have compassion for others. Anything that takes us closer to true compassion, takes us closer to what will one day be an experience of even greater joy."

Loneliness

"Sometimes the person who tries to keep everyone happy is the most lonely person."

I just came across this quote while surfing the net. It made me pause and think. I can see where this can be true - people who focus on others and their feelings, put themselves in second, third, fourth, etc. place. In other words they themselves do not value who they are and don't give themselves the respect they deserve. By doing this you become very lonely, because you feel unseen by others as you are unseen by yourself.

See yourself. Honor yourself. Be good to yourself. Love yourself.

The One You Feed

Today I would like to share a little 'story' with you that simply illustrates what goes on in all of us. Food for thought. Enjoy.  :)

"An old Cherokee told his grandson, "My son, there is a battle between two wolves inside us all.  One is Evil. It is anger, jealousy. greed, resentment, inferiority, lies, and ego.  The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, humility, kindness, empathy, and truth.

The boy thought about it and asked, "Grandfather, which wolf wins?".

The old man quietly replied, "The one you feed.".

Author unknown

Advice

"Nobody can give you wiser advice than yourself." by Marcus Tullius Cicero

You know yourself better than anyone!  Be true to yourself. You can listen to others and take their advice into account, but ultimately do what is right for you. Decide your own path. Make your own journey.

Make A Wish And Let It Go

When you want something to happen, it doesn't. When you release it, that is let go of how and when you think it should happen, it happens!  Amazing.

So the lesson is: make a wish and let it unfold as the Universe/God/etc. wants it to.

Silence

Once in a while it is very restorative to surround yourself by silence. You can be busy and active throughout all of it, but leave all technology off, such as radios and TVs. Enjoy the silence, the quiet. Relax into it and let it surround you.

Do All Things With Love

"Do all things with love." by Og Mandino

Apply this to everything you do in your life, literally. Whenever you find yourself stressing out about something, remind yourself of this - bring love into the situation. When you are stressing, often times you are the one creating additional emotions that unbalance you but add nothing to the situation itself. Whether you stress about it or not, doesn't change the situation. It only adds to distort your emotional and mental state of mind.

Next time you start fretting, stop and think about this. Whenever you feel yourself stressing out, stop that emotion, and do it with love. See how the dynamics change for you.

Happy Sleep

"A well-spent day brings happy sleep." by Leaonardo da Vinci

When you have a productive day you feel fulfilled and happy. Invariably that will relax you and your body, easing your sleep.

Not everyday can be productive and fulfilling.  Nevertheless you can work on nurturing happy thoughts and releasing the days worries prior to going to sleep. Consciously relax you mind and body, breathe deeply and have positive thoughts as you fall asleep. :)

Dare

"To dare is to loose one's footing momentarily. Not to dare is to lose oneself." by Soren Kierkegaard

This is an interesting perspective. Fear of change often stops people from changing. This denial though stagnates you and your development, ultimately leading to not knowing who you are. So take a chance...loose your footing momentarily! :)

600th Post

Who would have thought I would ever make it this far?  I certainly had no idea! I do want to say at this point that I am deeply grateful for the support and encouragement I have gotten to do this and to continue blogging on a daily basis.

Thank you all. You are a part of my journey. Lots of love and light to you.

Alive

Today, be thankful you are alive. Be thankful for having the privilege to experience beauty, love, challenges, sadness, exuberance, anything! It is what makes you YOU and what life is all about. Be grateful for all your senses and let life in.

"Your life is your message to the world. Make sure it is inspiring." by Unknown

Inspiration

Inspiration can hit you from just about anywhere. All you need to have is a childlike innocence and openness to receive it!

Patience

One way to practice patience is to go driving with a teenager who has just gotten a learner's permit. It is an instant challenge. Want to increase the challenge? Go on a night drive!  ;)

One-On-One Time

Every so often spend one on one time with your child. Make it a special time for the two of you. Focus on something you both enjoy.

Too often you get caught up in the everyday routine, chores, and whatever else you have going on. Taking this time helps you nurture your connection to you child and gives you both a fun break from your routine.  :)

Changing Routines

With summer vacation being over and school starting again, life changes and a new rhythm has to be adopted. Like any change it takes time and energy to find your new groove and to get everyone else settled into theirs too.

Be aware of this extra unsettledness and the additional energy you are expending. Get plenty of rest, feed & hydrate yourself well and keep centered as much as possible.  All these things will help your transition into a new routine.

Random Acts Of Kindness*

Today, a person cut in line right in front of me, handing the cashier a twenty dollar bill and telling her to use that money to pay for the next orders until the money is gone and then left. This is so unusual that both the cashier and I were speechless...it took us a while to register what had happened.

With this simple act of kindness this person made a positive impact on multiple people, that will remember this random act of kindness for a long time, and I assume will also aim to pass it along. It is reaffirming to see that people care and are willing to share with complete strangers in an "anonymous" way. Imagine if each one of the people that were touched today passed along one random act of kindness to another small group and so on. Kindness could start spreading like wildfire.  :)

Being Right

"Let go of your attachment of being right and suddenly your mind is more open." by Unknown

This is a lovely reminder to not fixate on one point of view or one thing. By fixating you not only narrow your horizon but you also judge others and yourself. When you want a breather remember this quote and open yourself up to other possibilities, to all else.  :)

Good Night

Here is a little poem I came across over the Internet:

Day is over,
Night has come.
Today is gone,
What's done is done.
Embrace your dreams through the night,
Tomorrow comes with a whole new light.

Make peace with your day before you go to sleep. It helps you to open yourself to dreaming and then also to a new day and all the possibilities that come with it. Take a few deep breaths and consciously let everything go before going to sleep. Relax. Sweet dreams and good night.

Goals

"A goal is not always meant to be reached, it often serves simply as something to aim at." by Bruce Lee

Be open to changing your goals as becomes appropriate. On your path you will gain new insights that will change your perspective and your goals. Sometimes more than others, but the point is to stay flexible and connected to yourself. If a new course presents itself as better, trust yourself and have the courage to change your path.

Theoretical vs. Practical*

Today I had the pleasure of being taught an extraordinary CPR class by a local fire-fighter. His dynamic, practical, real life approach to the whole class kept me spell bound. For the first time ever I left the class with the confidence that should I ever have to help someone, that I would be able to do so.

Balancing theory with real life experience made all the difference in the world. We were presented the best, up to date theoretical approach and his every day experience to take into consideration too, thus making this an as real as possible in classroom setting.

Theory is a starting point, but experience brings it together, and can make all the difference in the world, especially in a life or death situation. Whatever theories you have out there, test them! It is the best way to find out how they work and better yet how they can be improved upon, thus leading to new theories and new test. That is how improvement can be achieved to better the lives of all.

Parting And Reunions

"Every parting is a part of death, as every reunion is a type of heaven." by Tyron Edwards

No matter how much you rationalize the rightness of your children flying the coup, it still leaves a hole in you when they do leave. Likewise though it is so heavenly fulfilling when you get to see them again. Of course this applies to any loved one, not just your children. 

The sadness is balanced by the happiness, while if you don't part it is more of a constant. The challenge of parting creates more space for joy and appreciation later.

Fixing Others

As your children become adults, somewhere along the way you become aware that it is not your responsibility anymore to fix their problems. They choose challenges they need to further their growth. However that doesn't mean that you can't do anything for them. Quite the contrary!

Rather than working on fixing things for them or telling them how to fix it, they will benefit more from experiencing/knowing that you love them unconditionally, that you do not judge them, that you have compassion for them.  Create a virtual safe space they can enter whenever they want to and whenever they need it. Leave your problems out of that space. It is not about you, but about them.

Be there when they need you. Listen to them, truly listen. Often that is all that is needed.  Add encouragement and/or reassurance as needed. Shut off your judgement. Refrain from taking the reigns.  It is disempowering to your child. And just love them. Love the child within them. Love their pureness and innocence, their essence. Thus you will help them find their way back to themselves. Be the mirror they need in their time of need.

We all need a safe haven and parents have the privilege to be able to give that to their child/children. Doing all this takes time, perseverance and practice. As always too, practice makes perfect and you are giving yourself and your child the best gift ever.

Positivity

Train your mind to think positive thoughts and to dwell on good things.You choose which camp, the positive or the negative, you want to spend your time in. The first step is to catch yourself when you are dwelling in the negative camp. Then consciously release that thought and replace it with a positive one.

Be diligent and build this muscle until it becomes second nature. It will do you a world of good.  :)

Love Can Move Moutains

I haven't shared a song in a while and thus would like to share this one, one of my favorites. Listen to the lyrics. They are inspiring and OH so true! This is one way to find inspiration.  :)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iudvkW7_b1c

Abundance

"Abundance is a process of letting go; that which is empty can receive." by Bryant H. McGill

Isn't it interesting that abundance is not about accumulating more, but about letting go of all the wants and taking in all there is. While abundance can be monetary, it is only a small part of what there is. It is when you get stuck on something that you believe is abundance that you close the doors to true abundance in all forms.

Getting Older

"Do not regret getting older. It is a privilege denied to many." by Unknown

Age indeed is a privilege and every day counts. Be thankful for every day you get to experience. Love your gray hair and your wrinkles, even the little aches and pains. You are alive and privileged to experience & grow on this beautiful earth.

Unitasking

Nowadays people are more and more drilled to multitask. It is the 'normal' state of being. Multitasking saves time, but it also removes you from the here and now. You loose the ability to be single minded, to be mindful, to be present.

If you are up for it, challenge yourself to focus on one thing at a time. Unitask! For example, when you are eating, eat. Don't think about the million other things you have to do, or the problem that keeps nagging at you, or drive while you are eating, or texting/calling someone, etc. Sit down and simply eat. No more, no less.

Sounds easy? It definitely sounds easier than it is...  :)

Stuff

"It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness." by Charles Spurgeon

Stuff/things don't bring happiness. You can be the wealthiest person in world and still be through and through unhappy. Nurture your enjoyment of everyday life as it is. Beauty is found everywhere and if it seems to delude you, go into Nature, or take a walk, or do something creative, etc. and find some joy.  :)

Mindful Walking & Mindful Breathing Exercise

Try the following exercise to practice mindful walking and mindful breathing: As you start walking put your focus on your steps.  See how many steps you take for every in-breath and how many for every out-breath.

Lets say, for example, you take two steps for every breath in and three for every breath out. Focus on this step to breath pattern ratio. It helps if you mentally say "in, in" and then "out, out, out" as you are breathing in and out. Keep this up throughout your walk.

Through this exercise you practice being in the moment and being centered.

Confrontations

If you don't like confrontations take heart...you are not alone. Confrontations though are also important for your growth. It is part of you embracing your power. It is all about how you apply it. As long as your heart is in the right place, ie you are centered, you will find the strength to follow the path that is right for you in alignment with your highest good and the highest good of those around you.

When you do find yourself in that space you will find too that confrontations don't have to feel uncomfortable. They will just feel aligned.

Interconnectedness

Though you might feel pain in a certain spot, it doesn't always mean that that spot is where the source of your pain is. It might just be that that spot is trying really hard to make up for something else in your body that isn't working the way it should.

Everything in your body is interconnected and relies on each other.  When one thing is out of balance other pieces suffer too. That's why it is so important to take a holistic approach to your body and not just focus on one thing to heal all of it and bring the body back into balance. Removing the symptoms does not restore balance. Finding the true source a healing it will restore balance.

Walking Meditation Poem

I love this poem, and thought you might too, if you haven't already seen it. In a recent blog I mentioned 'mindfulness' and this is one way to put mindfulness into practice. Enjoy!  :)

"Walking Meditation" by Thich Nhat Hanh, from Call Me by My True Names: The Collected Poems of Thich Nhat Hanh. © Parallax Press, 1999.  

Take my hand.
We will walk.
We will only walk.
We will enjoy our walk
without thinking of arriving anywhere.
Walk peacefully.
Walk happily.
Our walk is a peace walk.
Our walk is a happiness walk.

Then we learn
that there is no peace walk;
that peace is the walk;
that there is no happiness walk;
that happiness is the walk.
We walk for ourselves.
We walk for everyone
always hand in hand.

Walk and touch peace every moment.
Walk and touch happiness every moment.
Each step brings a fresh breeze.
Each step makes a flower bloom under our feet.
Kiss the Earth with your feet.
Print on Earth your love and happiness.

Earth will be safe
when we feel in us enough safety.

Shortcuts

Shortcuts are a funny thing...sometimes needed, sometimes wanted, sometimes wished for. No matter what the reason though a shortcut is just that - you cutting yourself short. Shortcuts are often sought in the hope of saving time, though most of the time you end up spending more time trying to find the shortcut than actually doing it right in the first place.

Find the patience to take the steps you need to take and save yourself time and frustration in the long run.  :)

Fresh Stimulus

"Defeat should never be a source of discouragement but rather a fresh stimulus." by Robert South

Indeed!  There is always another way, another approach to be taken. It is all part of the larger picture, giving you the opportunity to be creative, to stretch yourself in a new direction, to step outside the lines, possibly even to see things in a new light. Keep this in mind the next time you feel defeated.  :)

Anything Can Happen*

After a lot of rain the last couple of days, the wind kicked up and whooshed away the clouds, pollution and humidity.  On my way home, the sky was sparkling and the air was so clean and fresh, I just had to drive home with all the windows open, the stereo blasting, me singing at the top of my lungs, and my hair flying uncontrollably everywhere! What an energy booster that was. It felt great just to go with the flow and enjoy the moment, to feel that vibrantly cleansed and cleaning air. The world felt very alive and fresh.

It is always amazing to me how quickly things can change in Nature. The last few weeks the temperatures have been very high and all of a sudden you get a 30 degree drop, rain, and wind, resulting in gorgeously clear evening. Life is that way too. Change comes out of the blue, rearranging what is, clearing the air and giving you a new platform. Sometimes it is just a preview of what is to come (the temperatures will rise again in the coming days), but it shows you too that anything can happen, even out of season.  :)

Over Thinking

Over thinking or trying to work something out way in advance takes up a lot of time and make little or no difference at all in the end. Things will probably work out completely different then you predicted when the actual time of action happens.

While I believe that prep work has a lot of merit too, after a while it becomes ineffective and redundant. When it is time to act be open to all the possibilities and choose what feels right at that point.  That'll be the right choice for that moment.  :)

Creativity

Harvesting fruits and vegetables is energizing and inspiring to me. It heightens my senses and sparks my culinary creativity. It reminds me of how wonderful it is when your creative juices are flowing.

Do you know what sparks your creativity? Integrate it into your life as often as possible. It is the connection to your Divine source.  :)

Relationships

Every person that enters your life, every relationship you have with someone else, no matter how long or short, no matter how good or bad, is there to help you grow. Those relationships that end on a less than desirable note, create resistance in you and stop you from moving forward.

A way to start moving forward again is to make a list of all the positive this person has brought into your life. Think about how that person made you learn new things, helped you expand your being and knowledge through their actions, through their being? This doesn't mean necessarily that they led you by the hand and were wonderful to you. The conflict changed you  - maybe opened your eyes to new aspects within you, to qualities that you maybe were not yet aware of within yourself, etc.

How did this person and the situation(s) created by your mutual interaction help you grow? Focus on this and you will find that 1) you indeed have grown and expanded your being and 2) that you did it because of your interaction with that person.

Elderly

Pay special attention to the elderly today. I find, over and over again, that they are so thankful if you just take a moment to listen, a moment to care. The elderly used to be revered as the wise ones, the keepers and sharers of knowledge. Things appear to have changed and they are now viewed more as feeble and undesirable. Does it have to do with the way technology has changed the world in such few years?

Either way, human interaction is so important. Communication amongst all ages needs to be nurtured and furthered. We all can learn from each other. Make it part of your life.

Eating Your Problems

Are you present when you eat? Do you put all other thoughts aside and focus on your food? Do you pay special attention to how it tastes, looks, feels?

You are what you eat. I'm sure you have heard this before. Yet, you are not only eating the physical aspect of it but you are also adding your thoughts/energy to it and if they are negative you are literally eating your problems. When you are worried or angry or sad, etc., you are adding that energy to your food, and thus also to yourself.

Imagine instead you are delighting in your food.  You are thankful for the bounty you are being blessed with and taste all the lovely nuances of the meal you are taking in. You can be sure that your body will integrate and absorb this energetically blessed and appreciated food far better.  :)

Be mindful today of your food every time you eat. Be thankful and consciously enjoy every bite. Even a prayer or a blessing prior to the consumption of your food makes a world of difference to how your body will accept the food. In addition you get a moment to relax, to put your worries aside, and to focus on nourishing yourself mentally, physically and emotionally. Enjoy!

Life & Death

A fire went through part of my favorite hiking trail last week. Walking through the burnt landscape was sad and intriguing at the same time. The landscape was completely changed, black and barren, and also more open. At the same time you could see seeds strewn throughout the ashes already too. It made me wonder how quickly life will form again.

Life and death are so closely linked. Though the fire destroyed, it also made the ground fertile again for new life, creating new possibilities for growth. It is the same in life/death.

Impermanence

Impermanence is the one thing in life that you can count on. Though you strive toward achieving a constant, invariably something changes again. There is nothing wrong with striving toward stability and constancy. Accepting and embracing impermanence at the same time, though it sounds paradoxical, completes the picture, that is it helps the flow of life.

Emotional Seeds

We all have negative and positive emotions. It is within your power to nurture one over the other. If anger or despair, for example, is taking over what can you do? Instead of trying to suppress it, choose  not to feed it, that is don't give it energy.

Instead choose a positive emotion, such as kindness or love, to take its place. Put your focus on the positive emotion and help it develop into the space the negative emotion was holding.

To help you visualize all this, think of emotions as seeds that are all within you (as they are within all of us). The more you water one, the stronger and taller it will get. Choose the seeds you want to nourish and practice constant watering.  :)

Presentation

Caring about your looks (i.e. how you present yourself) matters. It is not necessarily vanity, rather more a reflection of how you see yourself, how you feel about yourself. First impressions do matter. More than that though, it matters what you think of yourself. How you present yourself says a lot about you.

What story are you telling?

Perfect Moments

Perfect moments, moments that warm your heart, happen all the time. Often though they come and go so fast that you miss them, because you are distracted, or not listening, or simply are not present in the now, not in your heart.

Whether it is being in perfect harmony with your child, or the loving wag of a dog's tale, or a breathtaking sunset, or something as simple as a moment of complete silence, all this moments are perfect the way they are.

Today, see how many of these moments you can catch for yourself. Let them show you that you are blessed many, many times every day.  :)

Streaming Life

The more you focus your attention on your visualization, the more manifests all at once. When you let go of the details and focus on the essence, you will experience faster results. Keep in mind, time is not relevant to energy.

Just focus on what you want to experience. What do you want to experience in this life?  When you make your choices, focus on being:

limitless
timeless
focused
heart centered
and grounded.

You are here on this earth to experience life! Take charge. Be clear with yourself on what you want. Life is happening now. Seize it. Manifest it. Believe in it. Hold on to it. And most of all: LIVE.

The Universe's Creativity

When you visualize your dreams long enough, eventually they do align for you. All the minute details are always a fun surprise. Focus on the essence of what you want and the Universe will do the rest.

The how and when is not very relevant.  The essence of what you want, is. When it does manifest though, you will definitely know that it did!  Marvel at the when and how!  The Universe is incredibly creative!

Be You

Claim who you are. Be who you are. That is all you can be. And you are the best just the way you are. It is when you try to be something or someone else when you start to suffer.

The Five Powers

In this post I would like like to share a passage from a book called "The Art Of Power" by Thich Nhat Hanh:

"What most people call power Buddhists call cravings. The five cravings are for wealth, fame, sex, fancy food, and lots of sleep. In Buddhism, we speak of the five true powers, five kinds of energy. The five powers are faith, diligence, mindfulness, concentration, and insight. The five powers are the foundation of real happiness."

Apply this to your life...how much time do you spend pursuing the five cravings? What would it be like if you changed your focus onto the five powers? How would you life change? Just even going through this mental exercise have you noticed an energy shift within you?

The Toad

A toad, four inches long (sitting) and four inches wide was sitting on my driveway today, completely unfazed by anything. Even when we took a picture of it with a flash it didn't flinch!

Its composure was very impressive and made me think what it would be like to be that self assured, unfazed by life, to be able to take each moment as it comes with no back ups, no assurances even when two large creatures are staring at you and looming over you.

Today, become that toad. Be calm and self assured. Breath and imagine yourself as big or bigger than life. See how others react... Observe life around you and bask in your peace.  :)

Being Present

"When you love someone, the best thing you can offer is your presence. How can you love if you are not there?" by Thich Nhat Hanh

It is easy to get caught up in all the happenings of your life, all that is going on, all that you are trying to achieve. It can consume you to the point that you are not present anymore, especially with the ones you most care about.This presence does not only represent physical presence, but emotional, mental, and spiritual presence too. It means showing up in your essence in the lives of the ones you love.

Today put special focus on being fully present for those you love most. :)

World Cup 2014

So happy for Germany winning the Soccer World Cup 2014 in Brazil! What an exemplary show of team work. Great players sharing the same lime light as a team. CONGRATULATIONS!

"The best team against the best player" - that is how this Germany - Argentina match at the world cup final 2014 was labeled by the media. That is a lot of pressure to put on one person (Messi for Argentina) and at the same time a lot of attention given to that one person. Imagine having hundreds of thousands of people pinning their hopes/dreams on you... It is really hard to fathom.

Germany on the other hand was viewed as one unit, one team. Through their constant efforts they are now world champions, all getting attention.

Two different paths to fame. Thought provoking...

What Would It Be?

If all your current responsibilities were gone in a flash and you could start with a blank slate, what would you do? What would you want to do? Leave the variable of money out of the equation. Focus solely on what you would want to do to achieve inner happiness.  What would it be?

Wishing Your Life Away?

Are you wishing your life away? How often a day do think about the future, about what could be or will be? For one day follow your thoughts and take notice.  You'll be amazed how much time you spend out there and not right here.

If you do spend a lot of time in the future looking forward and reaching toward what might be, be mindful that you are here in the now. Bring yourself gently to the present every time you become aware of being in the future.

Sunrise

There is something magical about sunrises. The world seems to be still asleep. Nature is slowly waking up. There is a stillness all about, and the first rays of sun come timidly through, casting long shadows. Colors start coming alive all around you infusing life. The sunflower starts stretching its neck toward those first rays, welcoming the sun.

Let the magic of a sunrise run through you and energize you for a wonderful day.

Acid-Base Balance

Balanced nutrition is a key to health. One of many aspects on this topic to consider is the acid-base balance. Western nutrition is heavily skewed to the acidic side.  Most of us have too much acid in our bodies. Below are a couple of links you can go to to see which foods are basic and which are acidic (or google it!). Become aware. Even little changes can make a big difference. :)

http://chirocarehealth.ca/food-as-medicine/acidic-and-basic-foods.html

http://www.rense.com/1.mpicons/acidalka.htm

Funny Quotes

Humor is important.  So here is something that might make you smile when life gets too serious:

"Do not take life too seriously.  You will never get out of it alive."  by Elbert Hubbard

and

"I believe if life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade...And try to find somebody whose life has given them vodka and have a party." by Ron White

Give Your Heart The Reigns

Sometimes there is not a logical solution to a problem. No matter how many times you dissect the problem, no matter how many different ways you approach it, no matter how many facets of it you look at, no solution presents itself.

When logic fails, stop feeding that process energy and let faith take over. And most of all focus on living in the now again.

When you are in that type of an endless loop you can completely loose yourself and your energy. There is always a solution. You are just not able to figure it out with your head. Give your heart the reigns and live in the moment.

Burns

I am always amazed how well Dr. Bach's Rescue Remedy Cream works on minor burns. I apply the cream on the burn and it instantly soothes the pain. I keep reapplying it as soon as I feel the pain coming back until it seizes to hurt. As the wound heals you can keep reapplying the cream as long as the skin is intact. It seems to me like it helps it heal faster too.

Benefit

If you are reluctant and/or resistant to change a situation that you know you need to change, or you are 'trying' to change it but it doesn't seem to change, odds are that you are still holding on to the situation because there is a benefit in it for you as perceived by you.

Ask yourself: "What am I getting out of this situation, what benefit? If you answer: "There is none", ask yourself: "If I were to guess, what would be the benefit?"

Obviously you are not consciously choosing the situation, so it may take deeper digging to get to the bottom of it. When you accept that there is a benefit in it for you, it gets easier to become conscious of what it is. Once you find the answer you can make a conscious choice as to whether you are OK with the situation as is or if you really want to change it.

Purpose Of Life

What is the purpose of life?

Here is one answer that was written on a Yogi tea bag: "The purpose of life is to enjoy every moment."

Maybe it really is just that simple. What do you think?

Find Inspiration

If you are in a rut, find inspiration. It can be as simple as googling a new recipe, checking out a new store, randomly taking a new route to work.  Look for something new to do. Reach outside of the lines you are abiding by currently and see what comes your way.

Make the conscious decision to change something. Be inspired. Find a new road.

What Is Best For You

When it comes to knowing what is best for you, it is YOU who knows best.  Keep and nurture the trust in yourself, even when it goes against what everyone else says and/or believes to be true. Only you know what you feel, think, experience and live each day. No one can possibly know you better than you.  Though others may have more knowledge on certain subjects, they can't know you as well as you know yourself.

Choose what is right for you. Believe in yourself.

Timing*

Just two days ago we started picking cherries off of one of our cherry trees. There were so many that we stopped after picking about 2/3 of the tree, thinking they would stay fresher on the tree and it would give us time to process what we harvested.

This afternoon I looked at the tree to see if there were still cherries to be harvested and there were. Four hours later however, when I got ready to pick the rest of the cherries, the tree was bare of all cherries! Wow!

It made me think of how life presents you with opportunities and it is up to you to seize the moment. Sometimes, if you wait too long, the door closes.  It is a reminder to take chances, to say 'yes' instead of thinking you will get to it later, to act instead of being passive. There is no moment like the present. If it feels right, just do it.  Harvest all the bounty. :)

Self-Acceptance

This is google's definition of the word acceptance: 

1. the action of consenting to receive or undertake something offered.

2. the action or process of being received as adequate or suitable, typically to be admitted into a group.

This is the definition given for self acceptance:
1. an acceptance of yourself as you are, warts and all.

If you combine the two, self acceptance is "a consent to receive yourself as you are". It is important to be aware that it does take your consent to achieve self acceptance. Are you giving yourself permission to accept yourself?

Wise Reminder

Today, by chance, I ran across something my youngest had written when he was 9 years old (the first part is a quote he used):

""When a man points a finger at someone else, he should remember that his fingers other fingers are pointing at himself." by Louis Nizer

This sentence tells me that if you blame someone else, you are telling everyone that you did it.  You should take responsibility for your actions. If you don't, you're a liar. Even if it's a minor incident, you should take responsibility for your actions. Even if you get away with it, you're a liar."

Reading this opened my eyes again to how wise our children really are and that they do understand so much more than we sometimes give them credit for. It is a good reminder that wisdom is everywhere and is not tied to age necessarily. Pearls of wisdom can come out of a 9 year old's 'mouth' too.  :)

Set The Tone Of Your Day

Set the tone of your day.  Here is how: 

1. Choose a mantra, e.g. "I am love", before you get out of bed.

2. Say it 108 times out loud

3.Own the mantra throughout this one day. Remember it as often as possible. Feel its resonance in your heart and recenter as needed.

By taking this bit of time in the morning to choose a topic of focus, you are directing your day and your reality. Give it a try and see how it works for you.

Higher Self Connection

How do you know, when you are working with your Higher Self, whether you are connected to it or not, and if you are receiving answers from your Higher Self or not?

Patricia Cota-Robles suggests asking yourself the following 4 questions to check whether you are or aren't receiving answers from your Higher Self:

1. Is this response free from fear?
2. Is it the most positive way of handling this situation?
3. Does this response involve the highest good for all concerned?
4. Am I adding to the light of the world by responding in this way?

If you answer all questions with a 'yes' you are connecting with and receiving answers from your Higher Self. If even one answer is a 'no' than work on reconnecting again.

No matter whether you believe in the concept of a Higher Self or not, these are great questions to ask yourself when responding to challenges and/or challenging situations. They are heart centered and take an all encompassing, broad approach. They also help you step outside of yourself to take into account the bigger picture, serving the good of all.

Never Say Never

Have you ever said: "I don't ever want to be like _______ (fill in the blank, e.g. mother, father, sister, etc.)"?If you have, you can be sure that you will be just like that person, in a different way, but still the same.  You have chosen to work on that challenge in your lifetime, you have chosen to walk the same path.

Often you are dealing with family patterns that help you further your growth as well as the growth of the family line. Whether you have seen this happen yet or not, be aware of it and start observing it. And most of all start accepting it. Fighting it makes it harder.  The lesson is there for you. You chose it and you are living a facet of it that helps you grow. Acceptance and awareness will help you resolve it.

Focus

"People deal too much with the negative, with what is wrong. Why not try and see positive things, to just touch those things and make them bloom?" by Thich Nhat Hanh

Where you put your focus is where your energy goes, which in turn becomes manifest. Though it is beneficial too to sometimes understand the "negative", it serves you far more too spend most of your time putting your focus on the positive, on what can be done, on what brings you joy, one what gives you peace.

Focus on the positive brings action/freedom with it, while focusing on the negative incarcerates you.

Take A Chance

Sometimes you have to take a chance and see if you can be more than what you are today. You'll find out whether you are or aren't. Either way you are taking a chance and thus you are growing. Take a chance today and step outside your comfort zone.  You'll be a winner no matter what.  :)

Breath Check

Today, pay attention to your breath. Whenever you think of it check in with your breath and see what it is doing. Are you breathing fast? Holding your breath? Breathing regularly?

Regular deep breathing is important for your health. You will be amazed how often you find your body tight and you holding your breath. Ease the tension with deep breath. Regulate your breathing into a steady pattern that releases any tension you are holding on to.

And remember, keep checking in with your breath all day! It is amazing how quickly you revert back...

Willingness

Are you willing to listen?  How often do you truly listen to others?  How often do you truly listen to yourself? And again, first and foremost, are you willing to listen?

This is the first and most important step when you want to learn from others and from yourself. Your body and intuition have a wealth of knowledge at your disposal. Start by being willing to listen. Take the time, have the patience and focused concentration it takes to deeply listen. Commit to it fully and wholeheartedly.