Tuesday, January 7, 2014

Technological Changes

Technological changes/advances are happening all the time. While immigrating back into the US through New York, a whole new system with kiosks was set up to speed up the process, that wasn't there just a year ago.

It is amazing how fast these technological changes happen and how, if you don't keep up with it all, you become "disconnected". In a way you are forced to embrace change. Makes you wonder where it is all going...


Monday, January 6, 2014

Consistency, Loving Presence, Physical Touch

There was a period of time when my son had closed himself off from me. During that time I gave him all the space he needed as it is something all young men and women go through in order to find themselves.  At night though I would go into his room, wished him a good night, gave him a kiss on top of his head, and then left him alone.  After almost a year he started coming around and opening up on his own when I would come to say good night. Now we end up having long conversations and have built a very strong bond.

Showing tenderness and being physically affectionate is so important, especially for your children. Your consistency, loving presence and physical touch, even if it is only two words and one kiss on the top of the head for a year or however long it takes, are all integral parts of the bonding process, through highs and lows, no matter what.

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Extended Families

Today is my mom's 80th birthday!  All us kids were blessed to be able to be with her to celebrate this wonderful milestone. It was also an occasion to meet her extended family, who are people that she lives around and interacts with, when we are in our respective countries of residence.

It was eye opening and touching to see and meet all these people who have taken her into their hearts and who care for her too. I am so thankful for their presence in her life and to have been able to share this great celebration together, in every one's presence.  Meeting everyone in person has made her "extended family" a part of me too and vice versa.

This special celebration has brought us together in the Spirit of a shared appreciation and love for a very special person.

It is important to, if possible, take an interest in the human interactions of those you love. It enriches every one's life.

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Asking For Clarifications

There are so many times, when you feel insecure, that you think you know what other people are thinking about you.  Your imagination takes on a life of its own and all kinds of scenarios, thoughts, and judgments, that seem completely real, come to life.

The truth is though, you won't know what others think unless you ask them point blank. The key there too is, when you do ask, to listen to what they say WITHOUT your internal judge going off.  Invariably you will pick out the things your judge is expecting, but more importantly listen to everything else that is being said too, as well as the context of what is being said.  You might be surprised and more likely than not hear things you might not have expected.

Also, always know that what you are hearing is a personal interpretation of someone else, an interpretation of how your life affects and touches the other person.  Listen to the part that applies to you.  Accept the "good" and the "bad" with open ears and an open heart. Be thankful for the feedback.  It is not always easy to deliver your "unfiltered truth". The person delivering their truth is also taking a chance and being vulnerable in their own way. 

And, again, ask for clarification, as many times as it takes, to understand what is going on. It may not be what you are used to, but it may save you many hours, weeks, etc. of needless and fruitless pondering and ultimately the creating of fictitious worlds.

Friday, January 3, 2014

Loneliness

Isn't it amazing how you can feel lonely in a crowd? This can mean two things: 1) you are not connected with yourself and/or 2) that you need time for yourself.

Either way, honor what your body and emotions are telling you.  Don't force yourself to do what doesn't feel right. Nurture yourself and most of all LISTEN to yourself.

Loneliness often leads back to your inner child that is lonely, though you are feeling it as an adult. Reach inside (the adult you) and reach for your inner child. When the two of you join forces there is no more room for loneliness. You become complete and you are in each other's company. This is very healing for you. When you become whole again you will not feel lonely in a crowd anymore. :)

Thursday, January 2, 2014

Age - Real Or Belief?

Are you more frail the older you become? Today I heard an older lady say that she is more delicate in her advanced age. It made me wonder how much of it is perception and how much reality.

As I advance in age I do realize that my body is not that of a 20 year old.  Nevertheless, you do find that people who are the same age as you have varying degrees of stamina, endurance, health, and immune resistance, etc.  I am sure there are a lot of variables that play into this question.

I do believe though that a large factor in all of this (if not the main factor) is your personal belief! What do you believe? Your belief will influence significantly your actual state of being.

Wednesday, January 1, 2014

1 Year Of Daily Insights

Today completes one year of daily insights, 365 blog posts. It is hard to believe it has been a year and at the same time so much has happened. I am thankful for having started this written journey and for having been able to share it with you. Thank you for your feedback and support. It has been an invaluable learning experience that has enriched my life.

The future is wide open.  While I finished the task I set out to do (blogging daily for a year), these daily insights have become a part of me and my everyday life.  Insights are always around us as long as we are willing to grow and see beyond where we are. So I look forward to continue my journey with you and Daily Insights. :)