Just Be ...

"We are so busy being doers, 

we have no time just to be."

 Tenzin Palmo

December may be the busiest month of the year. There is so much we want to do and in spite of careful planning, over commitment absorbs every spec of our time. We find ourselves in places we have no desire to be but attend out of obligation.  We do not want to hurt other people's feelings, so we trample on our own.

Repeatedly, we ask others, "What do you want?" This is a question we ought to be asking ourselves, but perhaps it sounds too selfish. Maybe we yearn for a hot cup of tea to be enjoyed in silence or a brief slice of time to finish our book. It may be as simple as wanting to just sit and stare at our tree or light the menorah. 

Whatever holiday we are celebrating, there needs to be a time for reverence. Are we moving so quickly that the connection between our core beliefs and practice is lost? We can quietly sit to recall a favorite script from the Torah or Bible or Spiritual manual. Implement the passage into the day so you can just be. 

Stick Together

"Snowflakes are one of nature's most fragile things, 

but just look what they can do

when they stick together."

Vesta M. Kelly

People recognize a snowman without needing a specific language or descriptive message. Snowmen change in appearance, but we still know they are snowmen. Some have hats, a carrot nose, and coal for eyes. Then there are branches for arms. But no matter how they have been assembled, one knows a snowman when we see him!

Snowmen can be a duplicate of the past or a modern version from a Disney film. They stimulate all kinds of emotions from giggles to belly laughs. If they have been part of our making, we will experience feelings of sadness as they melt away. There even may be an act of tenderness cleaning up before children return to play.

Sipping hot cocoa, we may find ourselves reminiscing about the joint effort of creating the snowman. We may quiet the mind to recapture the sound of laughter and teasing. One can recall the discussions about which was the right hat or gloves or buttons. Memorable creations made peacefully together based on the capability of man.  

Need to Stop!

"When we are no longer able to change a situation,

we are challenged to change ourselves."

Viktor Frankl

Emotionally investing in others is a part of the spiritual path, but not at the cost of neglecting the self. There is such a thing as giving too much, becoming a rescuer and hoping to change the course of disappointment. Then there is the question of ego. Are we investing for a particular outcome to benefit the self?

Through our own perspective we see things not going quite right. Misguided into thinking we are helping, we basically manipulate. We can become obsessed and find our lovely selves ruminating over situations we have no control. There is danger in saving someone which then deprives them of his or her lesson.

If it is our perspective that something is not aligned, we have choice to change our reaction, investment, and participation. There are times when our absence can speak louder than words. Sometimes, we simply need to stop. Boundaries, both ours and others, need to be positioned, respected, and honored. 

 

Solitude in Snow

 

"Solitude is a silent storm that breaks down all our dead

branches: yet it sends our living roots deeper into

the living heart of the living earth."

Kahlil Gibran

And I am here again, drenched in loneliness that even though heavy, does not even begin to keep me warm. I wander across the snow ladened land captured by my frozen thoughts and broken by my cold heart. I embody solitude filled with my passion for writing and creative efforts. It is loneliness that breaks my spirit.

There can be discovery in solitude, a self-awakening. Without worldly distractions, I can become one with my spirit and feel my soul fly. Then eventually without a sense of connection, being alone can rip solitude apart. Questions without accompanying answers plague my quietude.

When I return to the solitude of nature, walk upon the ground, listen to the birds and small animals, I begin to remember who I am. It is in the midst of trees that connection with the earth grows so strong that I am willing to return and face life once again. Knowing I can overcome this sense of despair, I find words to usher me back home. 

Cold Moon

 

"There are nights when the wolves are silent and

only the moon howls."

George Carlin 

The last full moon of this year is upon us beaming down its energy to help resolve the disturbances that occurred in November. In the last month, self-doubt, scars from the past, and fear ramped through our days. That which we had been hiding, surfaced waiting to be resolved once and for all.

The energy from the Cold Moon supports our decision to release old patterns, unsupportive people, and emotional webs that trap us. It helps us be propelled into fresh new territory where we can better define who we are, what we want, and fresh inspiration. A new beginning is bursting within us. 

Let us use this time to release what was and redesign what is yet to come. We have one month remaining before the New Year is ushered in. Gently collect the truth of who we are and integrate that knowledge into a new plan to be applied in the forthcoming year. The Cold Moon is calling us to be prepared for orchestrating dreams come true. 

Between Courage and Fear

"Courage comes by being brave;

fear comes by holding back."
Publilius Syrus

We are barely into December and too soon there are rumbles in our emotional makeup. Whether decorating our space or forging out to purchase gifts, right below the surface there is a growing angst. Being able to identify it is not as important as positive action. Moving forward, trusting in the self, reduces fear. 

Although the world or community surrounding us seems chaotic, we can choose to remain stable by maintaining practices, rituals and simple self-care. Notice where you are and who you are with when feeling insecure. Discern if there is truth in the criticism and if so, intend to adjust accordingly.

It is said that the only person we can change is our self. So, investing time in others hoping for them to change, is not as productive as tending to corrective measures with our own self. Maybe it is time to meet our own needs, to love the uniqueness of our spirit, and to shine brightly for others to see. 

 

Towards the Light

"Hope is being able to see that there is light

despite all of the darkness."

Desmond Tutu

Darkness surrounds us and therein we learn lessons, visions, and insights. One must remember, however, to look up towards the light as it is the destination we are meant to achieve. Gathering life experiences in the dark, enhances the experience of living in the light.  

In the midst of darkness, a quiet presence can be instrumental in grasping what is to be learned. Whether a nod from a spirit guide, a gentle touch from a friend, or words of wisdom, we receive support. It is helpful to be touched by hope as we remember we are not in this alone.

When we fall back into darkness, we must cast our eyes up towards the light. For it is the light that reminds us that we are worthy of relationships where we can be accepted and loved. Through connection with those who are filled with light, we begin to see our lovely reflection once again.     

Behind the Veil

"Lift the veil that obscures the heart, and there you will find

what you are looking for."

Kabir

To hide behind a veil may at first feel safe, but in time it will feel like the repression of a heavy blackened sky. Beneath the veil, we may hide our truth, disguise our fears and stunt our skill. In the creases of the veil, we may feel safe. One day, however, the veil will be lifted, and the face will be lit by the moon. 

When the veil has been lifted, old patterns will be exposed, and we will be beckoned to find a new way. Although we will feel vulnerable, our strength can be fed as it propels us out of harm's way. We were never meant to be hidden ... not then, not now, not ever. Believe in the skills at hand and proceed.

Listen for guidance leading to a deeper way of living. Instead of hiding, explore the unknown. Hear the truth hiding in the heart, and do not be dismayed. Stay in the moment, not fearing what is beyond the bend. Authentically respond to each day on the journey and your heart will find its way. 

Avoid the Straight Line

"The shortest distance between two points is often unbearable."

Peter M Senge

As children, we are expected to walk a straight line, even though our nature is to wander. A child yearns to run and play, not watch one foot carefully placed in front of one other. We learn of consequences and our creativity is diffused by the distraction of regulations. Then of course there is the fear of punish

ment. 

By high school we learn to branch out a little and willingly take risks for pranks. The praise of comrades is greater than the parental scorn. Come college, many paths are formed. There is always a risk, but what of the reward?  There is textbook learning, and then the lessons taught by life itself.

Freedom is experienced when coloring outside of the lines. Creativity is heightened when blending colors that do not theoretically mix. To think outside of the box enhances our ability to discover diversity. Find a labyrinth either mental or physical and enjoy the expansion bringing both challenge and joy!

 

Frivolous Play

"Never, ever, confuse listening with agreement."

Diane Musho Hamilton

Sitting at the table, I first believed I had misheard what was said. Then I started following the conversation a bit more closely, and there were statements being made that made my heart cringe. Surely these people were joking! I felt frozen in place, hoping my horror was not written all over my face.

Witnessing my words angerly lining up in my brain, I literally bit my tongue so that I would not speak. Being controversial would not change these crazy beliefs. I chose to maintain eye contact but glanced at others as well. My guide within said, "Choose your battles wisely, and this is not one."

There was a time I would have thought being still would be disrespectful to myself. I had spent too many years being silenced! However, I now realized that I could learn from this conversation without exchange. Eventually, I discreetly excused myself and decompressed at the kids table with frivolous play!

Bestow Joy

 

"I want to thank you for the profound joy

I've had in the thought of you."

Rosie Alison

Emotional pressure from Thanksgiving may have been released but begins to build again today as many thrust themselves into Christmas preparation. Days lay in wait for our choosing as to how to fill them. I choose to dig into recollections of those who are still present or have come and gone, bringing elements of beauty and joy.

My college roommate was an independent, highly driven and successful woman, setting an example for me. A mentor displayed how to live a spiritual life, not hide it behind closed doors. Then a sister of my heart taught me to laugh from the belly discovering levity in any situation. All three have crossed over but continue to be held in my heart. 

Little triggers bring friends from the past into the present. They were bridges supporting my journey forward. Currently, there are the creative souls who inspire me to hone my skill. I am challenged by some, but with patience I try to unravel cause and effect. I am blessed to have these humans in my life as they bestow joy.

 

New Things Begin ...

"Thankfulness is an art ... practice it until your soul

recognizes beauty in everything."

Unknown

Thanksgiving celebrations may shift from year to year based on mobility, opportunity, and connection. Traditional family gatherings may be a past memory, but there are plenty of reasons to create new celebrations. Whether one gathers with neighbors or volunteers at a local mission, it is our focus that sets the mood.

Do we choose to hold thoughts of unhappiness or revitalize snippets of happy moments? When we link small glimmers together, our scenario of gratitude expands. If we use our skills, we can produce small items for sharing with others. It is in the giving that one experiences joy.

The key to celebrating Thanksgiving is seeing beauty no matter how big or small. Do not sit with sadness weighing down the soul. Recall blessings from the past, difficult lessons learned, and the benefits of not giving up. Experience a sense of courage building in preparation for new things to begin.

Truth Becomes Reality

"You never find yourself until you face the truth."

Pearl Bailey

The truth of the matter is we have agreed to do something that is not in alignment with our true self. Maybe we don't want to hurt someone's feelings or fear making someone mad, and so we violate ourselves instead. We convince ourselves that we can make this sacrifice. minimizing the lack of respect for the self.

There is a need to embrace our truth whether we act upon it or not. There needs to be an awareness of what it is, how it feels, and how it alters our movement. How does our inner truth substantiate our presence? When personal truth is known, we may take pause prior to sharing or impacting others.

Especially when we are settled into a particular life pattern, just the thought of change can be overwhelming. If we allow ourselves to be vulnerable and manage to be open to experience, we move truth from being buried to consciousness. With slow entry, we bring our truth into our existence, honoring our body, mind, and soul.

Centered Choices

 "Writing sets things straight, 

giving us a sense of our true priorities."

Julia Cameron

Thanksgiving has yet to arrive, and yet, there are Christmas decorations everywhere. As we face the holidays, numerous triggers activate emotions. There may be a family elder absent this year, an adult child not coming home for the first time or life circumstances keeping us alone. Anxiety begins to stir in various parts of the body.

Writing is a way of using our voice, especially when we do not want others to hear our anger, sorrow or frustration. Words can be splayed across the page without need for editing or censorship. As emotions flow, we may be surprised at the truth being uncovered and displayed. 

When we express ourselves upon the page, it can be saved, discarded or even burned. It is a safe space where we can articulate how something is unfolding and conversely, how we would rather it be. Released negative energy assists us in becoming centered, resulting in healthier choices 

 

 

Open a Window!

 

"The measure of intelligence is the ability to change."

Albert Einstein

Please, open the window and let fresh air come in! The inside heat is not helping with the building anxiety. Without any options to create a healthy scenario, falling to natural instincts can help sustain personal strength. Recognize growing discomfort and actualize the need to address whatever it is that is not going away, either physically or mentally.

When we throw open a window and breathe in the crisp air, a sense of calm begins to penetrate. The tiny impact of change encourages us to shift both our thoughts and actions. Breathe in, expand, and slowly let go of whatever hangs heavily in the heart. Fresh air encourages new thoughts and hope for fresh beginnings.

It is imperative to step through situations that stun us. In making a choice for action, we propel forward by increments. Simple movement encourages us to begin again with hope for corrective improvement. In times where no available solution can be applied, choose a peaceful action in honor of what had gone wrong. Indirect actions help to heal and bring peace back into the world.

Sextortion

"I've hidden memories in boxes inside my head before.

Sometimes it's the only way to deal with things."

Alice Feeney

Recently, I read of a high school boy who took his life. Reportedly, he had wonderful parents, lots of friends, great sense of humor, and excelled at school. The community was stunned as there was no apparent reason for this loss. The police had kept his phone and therein was the explanation for this tragedy.

It is called Sextortion. Someone posed as a 17 year old local girl who thoroughly knew all about him, his family and his friends. She led him to believe and trust their connection. Inappropriate pictures were sent to him and requested him to share as well. He then was blackmailed: pay $500 or be publicly exposed to your community. These professional extortionists shamed this innocent young man. 

The FBI is currently exploring this nationwide problem. Parents have come forward to heighten awareness in spite of their horrific pain. The circumstances of this senseless death will not leave me. I want to honor this family for coming forward so their son had not died in vain.  I have safely placed this information in my private space so I will never forget to pray for these innocent children, the impacted families and all who loved them.

Hoodwinked!

"Be courteous to all, but intimate with few, and let those

be well tried before you give them your confidence."

George Washington

Sifting through perspectives with our eyes open, we frequently see what we want to see. We falsely believe that others have standards just like our own. Then, at personal cost, we learn nothing is necessarily the same. When we find ourselves hoodwinked, the tears will fall as we did not see this coming, at all.

We maintain certain values, speaking our truth which is then followed by honest action. We want to trust those around us, believing they have our best interest in mind. We may feel an instant attraction with a compulsion to share. It may take seconds, days or years before we learn the fatal truth of how we had been deceived.

We cannot change others, and do not want to lose faith in those who associate with us. We can, however, be more careful with disclosing too much too soon. Notice if they are critical of mutual friends or freely share private information belonging to others. How they treat others will be exactly how they treat us.

Unexpected Release

"Each trapped emotion resides in a specific location in the body."

Bradley Nelson

All of us knew she was suffering. Individually, we offered to meet with her, but she drew deeper within. Food was brought with well-intentioned books. Flowers were left on her doorstep, respecting her need for privacy. Talk therapy and journaling were in place. As loving sisters, we held her in our heart.

She asked for us to gather to do yoga and of course we all complied. We spread our mats out and then began our simple routine. As our energy was building, we silently covered her with love, light, and prayers. It wasn't long before she burst into tears. We created a circle around her, offering safe space she desperately needed. 

It is not unusual for a person in the midst of a massage, energy work or meditative practice, to experience a release. The body stores trauma and physical touch, or movement can trigger an emotional reaction. Healing is a process with numerous options leading towards recovery. Utilize what resonates, leading towards personal resolution. 

Beautiful Layers

"Beauty is not in the face;

beauty is a light in the heart."

Unknown 

At a very early age, we are taught that our body suit needs to be covered at all times as though there was something needed to be hidden. Then we begin to think that others can see right through us, so we begin to additional covers. As one grows older, we begin to fear being stripped of our layers and exposed  

No matter how we cover our body, true beauty is found in our authentic essence. There may be appreciation as to how we present, but the depth of our character outweighs external dressings. Instead of focusing on being just one particular way, there is advantage to being comfortably blended into diverse situations.

We are multi-faceted with a broad range of emotions. If we remain aligned with our heart's desire and feed our souls with integrity and compassion, we will shine. With ease, we can sort through our beautiful layers, adding and subtracting for clarity and precision. Raising vibrations, our radiance grows.

 

Honor in Giving

"No person was ever honored for what he received.

Honor has been the reward for what he gave."

Calvin Coolidge

At a very young age, I was introduced to Native American Culture and found myself to be instantly captivated. I watched how everyone seemed to honor all of nature and exhibited the same respect towards each other. Movement was slow until the dancing and drumming took place. Traditional dress and ceremonies resonated in my soul.

In the midst of a tribe, there seemed to be genuine acceptance with diverse opportunities to express oneself.  Young children were encouraged to share and women expressed themselves freely through ritual and artistic craft. Young men were individually encouraged and supported. And the elders, what kind old souls.

In Native American Culture, each member of a tribe found a special skill to be used for the good of each other, nature and spirits. Eyes were to the heavens, not on greedy schemes to pontificate one's ego. It is not surprising that the Spanish Conquistadors taught tribes how to scalp.  Such damage to the original peaceful people and their country. 

 

Gnarly ...

"Gnarly burls and misshapen limbs speak of injuries and obstacles

encountered through time and overcome."

Peter Levine

When a tree is damaged, the wounds heal as they are covered over by new growth. The misshapen limbs reflect these injuries. Upon close inspection, one notices the irregularities in both root and bark formations. Trunk, twigs, and branches all contribute to the unique presence wherever they happen to grow.

Life does not protect us from our wounding. We all carry scars whether upon our skin or heart. Physically, they may heal reasonably fast, but emotionally, restoration may take unlimited or recurring time. Through spiritual beliefs, we eventually view our injuries as lessons that contribute to our uniqueness. 

The image of a tree can be encouraging as it displays a sturdiness, in spite of damages from the human hand or harshness of nature. We can begin to appreciate individualized character and endless beauty. Trees pass through seasons of life, just as we do. It is through this process that we learn to embrace our personal beauty. 

Positive Expectations

 “It is always important to know when something

has reached its end.”

Paulo Coelho

The beautiful leaves are slipping away with the autumn wind spiraling their descent. There have been warmer temperatures extending hope that winter will be delayed. Magical colors have danced in the nighttime sky as we continue to adjust to time changes and darkness falling earlier in the day. There will be a loss when children can no longer be heard at play.

Winter cannot be diverted no matter how hard we try. Things run their course and at some point, reality sinks in. Shifting from one season to another, we move through a process engaging us physically, mentally, and spiritually. 

Hang On!

"You can do amazing things if you have strong faith,

deep desire, and just hang in there."

Norman Vincent Peale

Shuffling through the leaves that have fallen, I wonder of their fate. Does their energy go on to something new or is this simply it? Glancing upwards, two leaves cling to a branch. Now what do they know that the others didn't? Are they brave or are they in denial of their fate? I walk on thinking, "At least they are together."

Even with solid friendships to be trusted with our inner chaos, fears can rush us. How long can we hold out? When is enough, enough? If we are blessed to hear even one small voice that encourages us to hang on, perhaps we can endure the winds of time. When we allow one other to witness our state, we just might become stronger.

And who is this one other that witnesses our peril? It can be our soul mate, priest, or local waiter at the neighboring cafe. Sometimes it is a total stranger we 'accidently' meet that offers insights that fill us with hope. And as we hang in there, perhaps the branch will keep us together and not let us fall, after all.   

Guts and Stardust

"Friend, you are a divine mingle-mangle of guts and stardust.

Frank Capra 

It is too easy to forget who we are when feeling overwhelmed by life. We think to ourselves, 'If I had made other choices, this would not have happened.' But of course, this may not be true. If we had done things differently, the exact same lesson still would have arrived, just presenting differently.

When we maintain a consistent relationship with whomever we deem holy, our strengths will be more readily available. There is not the intense feeling of helplessness when Spirit reminds us of our true nature. We have faced adversity before and it will come again, but each time we can use both our skills and inner spirit to appropriately react.

We can learn to move through life supplied with both wisdom and light. Our physical presence on the earth requires determination but can be accompanied with gentle magic. It is not an either or situation. We are spiritual beings in human suits filled with 'a divine mingle of guts and stardust."

Gold At Both Ends

"Dare to love yourself as if you were a rainbow

with gold at both ends."

Aberjhani

We have choice in viewing our life as an evolution or as a revolution. We can unfold with gentle curiosity or attack with aggravation. Situations can be viewed as a lesson or a threat. We can lovingly embrace our progress or critically judge our actions. The choice is ours to make. 

If we place blame on others, we do not hold ourselves accountable. If we own the problem, our positive response will advance us which is not necessarily true if we are in denial and simply retaliate.  When we listen to our inner self, identify behaviors distracting us, and seek to improve, life moves forward.

When glancing at our past, we need to have compassion for the depth of our struggles without chastising what we did or did not do. Focus on the strengths and lessons learned. Be proud of the resilience that has propelled us forward. Recognize the evolution of life as though we were a rainbow with gold at both ends.

Running Away ...

"Emotional pain cannot kill you, but running from it can."

Vironika Tugaleva 

Distracting ourselves from what is painful may appear as the best choice. We push forward without adjusting to disruption. This may feel like comfort initially, but what we avoid incubates within us. The pain does not subside when repressed. It can fester and become more of a wildfire than its original spark.

When we are faced with the unthinkable or overwhelmed by fears coming true, action can become helpful as long as it is not avoidance. Releasing our pain is part of the healing process. In a positive manner, rather than running away emotionally, we can paint, sing, meditate or simply get out in nature.

Running away is a subtle choice to ignore reality. If we do not feel capable of handling our emotions, we escape through denial. This is not about ruminating or being stuck. This is looking the other way as though it never happened. As we push it down, our emotional makeup impacts our physical well-being, creating illness. 

Wonder ...

"Wonder is the beginning of wisdom."

Socrates

Curiosity is an important tool. It helps us explore things when we find ourselves wondering about people, places or things. Instead of being simply entertained, we can dig a little deeper to understand what is creating our impromptu feelings and thoughts. We can wonder what the connection is between the past experience and now.

When we notice we are feeling slightly off, do we take the time to figure out why? Do we explore what is creating our mood or can we pinpoint the trigger? Can we discern the message our body, mind or spirit is trying to deliver? Whether it is a feeling of fear or joy, what wisdom might unfold if explored?

Information can be retrieved from retreats and trainings but let us not overlook the random pieces of insight sprinkled throughout our day. Each tidbit, seemingly insignificant, can teach us about our lovely selves which heightens personal power. Explore every nook and cranny and be proud of your authenticity!

Soldiers in the Present

 

"We should take this opportunity to re-evaluate how we are treating

our veterans in the present."

Nick Lampson

Soldiers will be honored today, but are basic needs being met? There will be great spending for parades and celebrations, but what about food for his or her families? Monuments will be erected, but where is the funding for appropriate healthcare? Once a soldier, life is altered for the remainder of life.

Veterans stand before us, but we do not see the depth of war upon hearts, minds, and souls. The struggles after serving can be greater than the chaos and devastation experienced in combat. How extent is the support, both mental and physical, when one exits war? The families left behind are rarely prepared for the returning soldier.

When we praise a soldier for bravery, he or she buries deep personal fears and horrific nightmares. Our expectations of a returning soldier to be a superhero adds pressure to perform in ways they are not ready for.  So rather than praise today, grasp the soldier's hand, look into the eyes and tenderly give thanks.

Contract and Expand

 

"For many artists the universe is expanding,

for some it is contracting."

Robert Smithson

When turbulence occurs, we want to hold ourselves accountable. We think if we had acted differently or commented less, the result would have been different. In our personal fear, we attempt to hold ourselves accountable. This offers us a false sense of control giving us hope that we can change circumstances.

When we cave in on ourselves, we become ego driven, our world grows dark, and we lose the sense of connection. Conversely, if we do not singularly own the problem, and look outside of ourselves, there is expansion and connection with others. It is as though we allow light to come in for correction.

If we utilize a spiritual practice, whether we are contracting or expanding, confidence and clarity flows. We do not feel as though we are facing our challenges by ourselves. Embracing the lesson and experiencing personal growth, the process of contraction and expansion propel us forward. 

Warrior Heart

"They gave you chaos, and you turned it into clarity."

Rose Zabelle

Each and every one of us has a warrior heart. It may be cloaked or buried, but it is there and always will be. A warrior heart may be silent or raging as every situation calls for something different. As life unfolds, the warrior heart is present for all peoples and for chosen battles. The simple presence of the warrior heart alters chaos.

To have a warrior heart means that we hold ourselves accountable. We will be strong if chaos prevails, but gentle when life fails. We do not fall asleep when life gets difficult, we stay the course, willing to change and grow. It calls for us to use our persistence when needed or mindfully abstain.

Whether we protect our family or a business or a set of ideals, there are times we are called to action. Our contribution may be extended in silence or visually activated. A warrior's heart has boundaries, and it is best not to cross them. The warrior's heart does not have a sword for protection but look out for their passion and drive.