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I offer on this page - a thought, a note of inspiration, a quote, a self-reflection for you to consider throughout your day. May your path of awakening and deeper exploration of the Divine be one filled with joy and excitement.
I have also recently updated this page and transferred all of the previous "Thoughts For The Day" into an archived sub-section for you to peruse and read over when you have the time.
May 18, 2012
..." Faith isn't blind, it's visionary. Faith is believing that the universe is on our side, and that the universe knows what it's doing. Faith is a psychological awareness of an unfolding force for good, constantly at work in all dimensions. Our attempts to direct this force only interferes with it.
Our willingness to relax into it allows it to work on our behalf. Without faith, we're frantically trying to control what it is not our business to control, and fix what it is not in our power to fix. What we're trying to control is much better off without us, and what we're trying to fix can't be fixed by us anyway. Without faith, we're wasting our time..."
(Maryanne Williamson: A Return To Love)
Have a faith based and glorious day!
May 17, 2012
.."Real servants don't try to use God for their purposes. They let God use them for his purpose.."
(Rick Warren: The Purpose Driven Life)
A point to ponder for this morning is to ask yourself where you are in resistance to letting go of your life so God/Great Spirit/The Divine can work more fully through you. What creates the strongest feeling of fear for you? Is it letting go of your career? Your relationship(s)? Your way of eating? Being rejected or abandoned by others?
Perhaps for today spend some time going within and allow God/The Divine to take your fears from you so that you might feel Him/Her more fully in your life.
Much love and joy be yours today!
May 15, 2012
.."Whatever the next hour or day may bring, I cannot change it by fear or anxiety, for it is not yet known. I will therefore wait for it with complete inward restfulness, perfect tranquility of mind. Anyone who can meet the future in this calm, relaxed way, without impairing his/her active strength and energy, will be able to develop the powers of soul freely and intensively..." (Rudolf Steiner)
May your day be filled with calm strength and love!
May 10, 2012
..."We hold on to so many things that cause us a great deal of pain, stress and suffering and instead of letting them all go, instead of allowing ourselves to be stress free and happy we cling to them. Not anymore. Starting today we will give up on all those things that no longer serve us, and we will embrace change..." (Dana Sauvic from Daily Good)
The common root of suffering is attachment and clinging, once we can learn to let these go, we can experience greater joy and freedom. Much love and joy to you today!
May 7, 2012
..."The wound is the place where the Light enters you.."
(Rumi)
I love Rumi! Have a beautiful and joy filled day!
May 3, 2012
..."With time everything becomes clear, all questions are answered, what's broken is restored, new trails are blazed, hearts are mended, love returns, and you will look over your shoulder, with a tear in your eye, at life's utter perfection." (A Note From The Universe)
I just loved this one today! Have a joyous day celebrating your beautiful self!!
May 2, 2012
..."Anger makes you smaller, while forgiveness forces you to grow beyond what you are..." (Cherie Carter-Scott)
Anger to me, is a very interesting emotion. It can show me all of those parts of myself where I am wounded and blocking out love. It can also show up when its time to set clear boundaries with others or when its necessary to prevent a war. Each situation is different and the use of anger will also show up to fit that situation. What is your unique interpretation of anger?
Today I am looking at any anger I have within myself to see where I still have blockages and fear- anywhere I am unwilling to do my own self-examination so that I may release what no longer serves me and to continue to heal and deepen my connection to the Divine.
Much love and blessings to you today!
April 25, 2012
..."What hurts you, blesses you. Darkness is your candle. Your boundaries are your quest.."
(Jalalluddin Rumi)
Much love and blessings to you today! I look forward to sharing sacred space with you :)
April 13, 2012
..."Each of us represents a star in heaven. Sometimes we shine with the rest. Sometimes we twinkle alone. And sometimes when we least expect it, we make someone else's dreams come true...." (Author unknown)
Have a beautiful and joy filled day! Much love and blessings bestow upon you :)
April 12, 2012
..."It is in the midst of negativity you are able to realize "At this moment I am creating suffering for myself" it will be enough to raise you above the limitations of conditioned egoic states and reactions. It will open up infinite possibilities which come to you when there is awareness-other vastly more intelligent ways of dealing with any situation. You will be free to let go of your unhappiness the moment you recognize it as unintelligent."
(Excerpt taken from: Oneness With All Life by Eckhart Tolle)
I have a tendency to get caught up in other people's smallness and projections. I allow myself to immerse in their drama and get pulled into it. My mind dwells on what they think about me and what they say about me. When I do this, I find myself swirling in negativity and helplessness. I want to shake these people into some form of light and recognition that they are Greater than their smallness. In reality, it is I who needs to shake myself to remind me to stay connected with Source.
The quote by Eckhart Tolle for me was the reminder that I needed to begin my day remembering that anything (any comment, action, gesture) that does not come from love is not real. Today I immerse myself in Reality every moment.
Much love and joy to you today!
April 11, 2012
..."A day of silence can be a pilgrimmage in itself." (Hafiz)
How often do you allow yourself the gift of silence? To just spend some quality time with self without the distractions of the t.v., phone, computer, or any other forms of noise. I know that life can sometimes be very busy and pull you in many different directions all at once, however, giving yourself even 5 minutes of silence every day can create the most magical and mystical experiences.
May the stillness of silence embrace you and keep you sheltered today. Peace and joy to you!
April 8, 2012
..."Our Father who art in heaven, nourish my spirit with the daily bread that only you can provide. For too long I have tried to live on what I could provide myself, scraps of empty knowledge long gone stale. I am hungry. Feed me..." (Excerpt taken from: Peace of Heart)
May your heart be nourished today with loved ones, food and time spent with the Divine. Much love and blessings to you this Easter Sunday.
April 6, 2012
Today I wanted to honor the Roman Catholic observance of Good Friday, which is a religious holiday that commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the leading figure in the Christian faith. Also known as Great Friday or Black Friday, this holiday is primarily observed by Christians, although it sometimes coincides with the Jewish passover. On this day, Christians honor Christ's sacrifice, which is believed to have saved the souls of the faithful.
I also have realized that since beginning these "thoughts in the moment" that I have not acknowledged other faiths and special days in which they celebrate and honor traditions. So, I simply wanted to admit that I haven't done this in the past and will strive to make better effort to do this in the days that follow.
May your day and weekend be blessed! Much love and joy to you in this moment.
April 5, 2012
I just got back from my Global Trip experience with Habitat for Humanity in Sante Fe, Argentina. I truly have no words yet to describe the experience. I feel, in the moment, I probably will never be able to find words that could encapsulate the experience. For me, it was the most extreme experiences of poverty that I have encountered and yet, at the same time, the most loving, joyful and generosity of spirit.
I am still in a deep process of what I experienced there. I pray that I will one day be able to share that process with you. For now, all that I can say is that I look forward to my next trip to do more of this work and to be able to once again immerse myself in some of the most joy filled places on the planet.
May your day be filled with blessings and love!
March 23, 2012
..."Recovering the sacred is remembering something we've forgotten, something we may have hidden from ourselves. It is about uncovering and discovering the innate wholeness in ourselves and in the world..."
(Dr. Naomi Rachel Remen)
Have a beautiful and joy filled day! As a personal note: I'm away working with Habitat for Humanity in Argentina and the "thoughts of the moment" will be on hold temporarily until I return. May each day be blessed and sacred for you.
March 20, 2012
.."Spread love everywhere you go; First of all in your own house....kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile, kindness.."
(Mother Teresa )
March 19, 2012
May we all collectively find a way to love each other and not feel the need to control others or change them. To simply allow for love to find a way through fear and those times in our lives when challenges feel insurmountable. These are the times that call upon us to dig deeper inside of ourselves and reach higher for grace and guidance.
I surrender my will in those times and ask that Great Spirit take over and guide my every action and word. Of my own, I am nothing but with you - Great Spirit - anything is possible!
Much love and blessings to you in this moment!
March 16, 2012
..."It is only when we silent the blaring sounds of our daily existence that we can finally hear the whispers of truth that life reveals to us, as it stands knocking on the doorsteps of our hearts. "
(Excerpt: K.T. Jong)
Have a beautiful and joyous day!
March 14, 2012
..."Always trust your dreams. They've chosen you, as much as you've chosen them."
(Excerpt taken from TUT)
For me, I would also add in to follow your heart. It is the direct compass and pipeline to the Divine. When life gets shaky and uncertain, the best course of action for me has been to connect more deeply with my heart, sink into stillness and see what shows up from deep within.
Much love to you in this moment.
March 8, 2012
Miracles are born in each moment and I feel deeply connected to those miracles this morning. Today I wanted to share this passage with you...
"You are led through your lifetime by the inner learning creature, the playful spiritual being that is your real self. Don't turn away from possible futures before you're certain you don't have anything to learn from them. You're always free to change your mind and choose a different future, or a different past."
(Excerpt taken from: Illusions by Richard Bach)
Much love to you in this moment.
March 7, 2012
I have found it difficult over the past few weeks to find quotes to share with you only because I haven't been authentic with you. Right now for me, life is challenging me BIG time. I have needed to be in the present moment like I never have before. I'm pulling out all of my tools in my tool box and basically on survival mode right now. Have you ever felt that way?
When life gets to be really unreasonable instead of questioning everything I have found myself down on my knees praying and then praying some more. Every spare moment is steeped in prayer. This may or may not be the point for me right now. It really doesn't matter. All I know is that when I focus on the power of prayer I can at least in the present moment get through to the end of another day feeling that life won't cave in on me.
I also take time to connect in with everyone everywhere who are also praying like me or suffering and in doing that I don't feel alone in my experience. I feel deeply connected with all of my brothers and sisters who are in a similiar situation. The power of prayer is my moment to moment focus right now.
May your own prayers be answered. Much love to you in this moment.
March 5, 2012
..."The person susceptible to "wanderlust" is not so much addicted to movement as committed to transformation.." (Pico Iyer)
For me, this quote resonanted this morning as it relates so intimately with the work that I do and who I am becoming.
Much love to you today and in this moment.
February 27, 2012
Whoa! I had no idea that I hadn't written on this page for over ten days. I just got back from facilitating a retreat in Puerto Rico. In this moment my heart is full of gratitude for all of the staff at the Casa Grande Retreat Center for sharing their laughter and creating a space of generosity and kindness. The atmosphere and energy there is one of simplicity, love, and openness. A true treasure for the heart.
Have a beautiful and joy filled day everyone! Much love to you in this moment :)
February 18, 2012
..."The important virtues are only learned with much repetition. Their importance is revealed again and again in obvious and then gradually subtler ways. Some of the deepest virtues, like patience and temperance, perseverance and compassion, take a lifetime to assimiliate. So relax. The journey is meant to be a gradual unfolding..."
(Excerpt taken from: In Love With The Mystery by Ann Mortifee)
February 16, 2012
Today may I see myself and my life through the eyes of the Holy Spirit.
Much joy and love be yours today!
February 14, 2012
.."Wisdom tells me I am nothing. Love tells me I am everything. And between the two my life flows.
(Nisargadatta Maharaj)
Happy Valentine's Day everyone! Have a beautiful and joy filled day :)
February 13, 2012
..."When you are inspired by some great purpose...dormant forces, faculties and talents become alive, and you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be...- Patanjali
Have a beautiful and inspired day!
February 12, 2012
I decided today to not use a quote from someone else. All I wanted to say or share with you today - is simply that I'm so grateful that you are in my life and you have taken the time to be here and be present with me in this moment.
Much love, joy and peace be yours in the moment!
February 11, 2012
..."Your primary purpose is to enable consciousness to flow into what you do. The secondary purpose is whatever you want to achieve through the doing. Whereas the notion of purpose before was always associate with future, there is now a deeper purpose that can only be found in the present, through the denial of time..."
(Excerpt taken from: Oneness With All Life by Eckhart Tolle)
Much love and joy be yours in the present today! Have a great weekend :)
February 10, 2012
..."Unknown to you, prayer is always at the service of destiny. Your days and ways are never simply as they appear on the surface. Human vision is always limited and selective, and you never see the whole picture. The Providence that weaves your days sees the greater horizon and knows what your life needs in order for you to come fully to birth as the person you are called to be.
Prayer refines you, so that you may become worthy of your possibility and destiny. The irony of being here is that sometimes it is precisely what you want to avoid that brings you further towards creativity and compassion."
(Excerpt taken from: Eternal Echoes by John O'Donohue)
February 8, 2012
I'm just loving the mystery today and again chose another quote from "In Love With The Mystery" by Ann Mortifee.
..."There is a band of consciousness that we can access that is more subtle than our daily awareness. It is here that we meet the Gods and Goddesses of all religions. We can penetrate this realm through devotion to any of these Deities who have deeply touched our imagaination. Through them, we find access to a miraculous world of possibilities. We are meant to open to realms beyond our own. As reverence and devotion awakens in us, we find ourselves expanding into a vaster sky."
February 7, 2012
..."Our purpose is not to slay the ego, but to absorb it completely into the fullness of our true Being. The ego or finite self must eventually become one with the Higher, Infinite Self. It is only then that we can be led by the Will of Heaven rather than by the petty demands of personal preferences. When we anchor our consciousness in the belly, we are literally bringing Heaven to Earth. The ego, which is so often motivated by insecurity, relaxes. As the ego lets go of its need for control, it finds itself at peace and in service to the Divine Will...."
(Excerpt taken from: In Love With The Mystery by Ann Mortifee)
February 6, 2012
..."Our life in this world is a wheel that is forever revolving. Nothing in creation is static. Yet at the center of all this activity, in the hub of all that is, lies Silence. Silence, the still, vast, eternal Void, is filled with unmanifest creative potential. Let this stillness be the source of all your action, all your wisdom, power and compassion. Drop quietly into this Silence. Here lies the seed of your becoming. Our destiny quickens and unfolds in service to, and as an expression of, the Great Silence..." (Excerpt taken from: In Love With The Mystery by Ann Mortifee)
February 3, 2012
May our day today be blessed and all of our dreams come true! Much love to you and your loved ones, and not so loved ones today. May love bring us all back to inner harmony and connection with pure joy today :) :)
February 2, 2012
May today be sparkling, dazzling, effervescent, radiant and joyous!
Much love and blessings extended to you today!
February 1, 2012
Happy new month everyone! For whatever reason, I needed to check and see which saint had a feast day for today. There were over 50 different saints that share a feast day on this new day of the month. I suppose for me the one that I resonated with the most was St. Brigid of Ireland.
I realized in the moment of looking at the list of saints who share the same feast day, that I forgot that every day of the year there is a celebration of a saint, mystic, prophet, ascended master, holy man and holy woman.
Today may I remind myself that every day there is a reason to celebrate life and all of the saints, angels, spirit guides, and wise ones who have walked this earth before us or are all around us all of the time loving us and nurturing us.
Today, as in every day, is a blessed day!
January 31, 2012
Yesterday was a magical day filled with so many secret treasures. Today I continue to ask that the day be cleared of any blockages that get in the way of the magical mystery. May all of our day be blessed! Peace, joy and love be extended to you in this moment. I am so grateful that you are in my life. Truly. Thank you.
January 30, 2012
Thank God today I have no clue what will happen. It keeps life interesting, fresh and in the mystery. What a blessing!
May you be immersed with love, joy and the Great unknown today!
January 29, 2012
..."We need to forget who we think we are in order to become who we really are..."
(Paulo Coelho)
Much love, joy and peace be yours today!
January 26, 2012
.."There are only two things to keep in mind:
1. God's plan works
2. Yours doesn't ... "
(Excerpt taken from: A Return to Love by Marianne Williamson)
January 23, 2012
..."Only what you have not given can be lacking in any situation." (Excerpt taken from: A Return To Love by Marianne Williamson)
January 21, 2012
.."The mind is like the lens of a camera. If the glass is clear and unclouded, whatever we see and create will be true. When the lens of the mind is distorted by unresolved wants and needs, we cannot perceive what is true. Therefore, we cannot create what is needed. Our work is to calm and cleanse the mind so that the light might reach us and flow through us unencumbered..." (Excerpt taken from: In Love With The Mystery by Ann Mortiffe)
January 18, 2012
..."This is a safe universe that's completely filled with love-it's everywhere that you are, filling every space where you travel. The more you look for evidence of this love, the more you'll find it. The angels watch over you continuously, always guiding and protecting you.
Trust this world and your experiences within it. Have faith in yourself, including your gut feelings, dreams and desires. Let down your guard, relax and enjoy the playground of life." (Excerpt taken from: Daily Guidance From Your Angels by Doreen Virtue)
January 17, 2012
..."Life repeats itself mindlessly - unless you become more mindful, it will go on repeating like a wheel. That's why Buddhists call it the wheel of life and death- the wheel of time. It moves like a wheel: birth is followed by death, death is followed by birth; love is followed by hate, hate is followed by love; success is followed by failure, failure is followed by success. Just see!
If you can watch just for a few days, you will see a pattern emerging, a wheel pattern. Once you see the pattern, you can get out of it, but you must first be willing to see the pattern and not resist it..." (excerpt taken from: Osho Zen Tarot)
I pray today to allow myself to let go of all resistance to my old programming and patterning that no longer serves me, or serves the Divine. Peace and joy be yours today!
January 16, 2012
..."Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is undestructible in us be found." (Excerpt taken from: Pema Chodron)
In this moment I would like to extend peace and joy to everyone everywhere! Much love and blessings :)
January 13, 2012
..."When you meet anyone, remember it is a holy encounter. As you see him, you will see yourself. As you treat him, you will treat yourself. As you think of him, you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself."
(Excerpt taken from: Return To Love by Marianne Williamson)
Have a beautiful and joy filled weekend! I'm doing a meditation retreat all weekend and will be back on Monday. :) :) :) Peace!
January 12, 2012
.."There is a gravity within that continually weighs on us and pulls us away from the light. Negativity is an addiction to the bleak shadow that lingers around every human form. Within a poetics of growth or spiritual life, the transfiguration of this negativity is one of our continuing tasks. This negativity is the force and face of your own death gnawing at your belonging in the world.
It wants to make you a stranger in your own life. You can transfigure negativity by turning it toward the light of your soul. This soul-light gradually takes the gravity, weight, and hurt out of negativity. Eventually, what you call the negative side of yourself can become the greatest force for renewal, creativity and growth within you."
(Excerpt taken from: Anam Cara, John O'Donohue)
January 11, 2012
Today I know nothing. Absolutely nothing. I only remember Your Love and ask that I fully connect with the True Source of that Love everywhere I go and with everyone I meet today.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
January 10, 2012
Today practice the art of unlearning. Know nothing today and just let the day unfold in its natural essence. Let go of any past experiences and just allow the moment of the now to take over as you allow THY will to pour through you.
Peace and joy be yours in each moment today!
January 9, 2012
.."We should never allow our fears or the expectations of others to set the frontiers of our destiny...We have but one life, and it is a shame to limit it by fear and false barriers. The divine has such passionate creativity and instinct for the fully inhabited life. If you allow yourself to be the person you are, then everything will come into rhythm. If you live the life you love, you will receive shelter and blessings. "
(excerpt taken from: Anam Cara by John O'Donohue)
Have a beautiful and joy filled day with creation!
January 6, 2012
.."May I have the courage today to live the life that I would love, to postpone my dreams no longer, but do at last what I came here for and waste my heart on fear no more." (John O'Donohue)
Oh, how I love John O'Donohue! May your day be blessed and filled with love and joy!
January 5, 2012
..."Wholeness is nurtured when you realize that the only way through some situations is to surrender and open to something greater. The act of surrendering is one of opening and trust. When we open and trust, we allow God's energy (the Infinite Oneness) to work with us to achieve what we need."
(excerpt taken from: The Goddess Oracle, by Amy Sophia Marashinsky)
Have a beautiful and joyfilled day !
January 1, 2012
"You're God's miracle in human form- the living embodiment of Divine love and will. Is it any wonder that angels are assigned to be by your side, like the guards at Fort Knox? You're valuable, beloved one, and cherished beyond compare. We angels know your true essence, and it's entirely perfect.
You're a golden child sent to Earth because your very existence and breath manifests love upon this planet. Every kind thought, word, or action on your part has healing effects.
You're valuable not only to God and us, but to everyone else as well. On a soul level, every person knows that you're here for a worthwhile purpose. Even if someone doesn't show understanding or appreciation of you on the surface level, that individual's spirit knows your worth.
Every one of God's children is a priceless miracle - and that definitely includes you."
(excerpt taken from: Daily Guidance from your Angels by Doreen Virtue)
Happy New Year! Much love and blessing to you in this moment and to everyone everywhere always!
December 31, 2011
Happy New Year's Eve! Today I wanted to share a quote from one of my favorite authors, John O'Donohue.
"...The shape of each soul is different. There is a secret destiny for each person. When you endeavor to repeat what others have done or force yourself into a preset mold, you betray your individuality.
We need to return to the solitude within, to find again the dream with the wonder of a child approaching a threshold of discovery. When we rediscover our childlike nature, we enter into a world of gentle possibility. Consequently, we will find oursleves more frequently at that place, at that place of ease, delight, and celebration. The false burdens fall away. We come into rhythm with ourselves. Our clay shape gradually learns to walk beautifully on this magnificent earth..."
May we all enter into the New Year with childlike wonder and the true and inherent nature of our soul's song and wisdom -expressing our uniqueness within all of Creation.
Much love, blessings and health be yours in your celebration this evening and into the New Year!
December 30, 2011
Great Spirit today may I acknowledge you as the source of all love. Love is the only thing that is real and can heal- everything else is an illusion. May I be immersed in this love in every moment today and with everyone and in everything. Beyond the illusion, each moment is holy, sacred and precious and filled with eternal love.
December 29, 2011
Today Great Spirit show me the unlimited realms and reach of your Divine and sacred love. A place deep within myself that has no boundaries and requires only that I connect in with it every day and say hello. May all beings everywhere be blessed and know this love right now!
December 28, 2011
Today Great Spirit I ask to dance freely, laugh loudly, speak with convinction and passion, live my life with integrity and grace, and BE my true and unstructured self. Fill me up with illumination and love in every moment that my expression only BE you made manifest into every exchange with others and with myself.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
December 27, 2011
Today Great Spirit I ask to release all of the ways in which I have withheld love from myself and in turn, from others. May I see myself as you see me - as loving, whole and complete and in your image.
Peace, joy and love be yours in each moment!
December 25, 2011
.."The Thought God holds of you is like a star, unchangeable in an eternal sky..." (Course in Miracles)
Today I am wishing you and your family eternal love and happiness during this Christmas day and always.
Peace, blessings and joy be yours today!
December 22, 2011
Today Great Spirit I ask that my life be an empty canvas and a living tapestry of your work. I ask that I become the paint and you the paint brush and I simply allow for you to create my day as Your will be done.
December 19, 2011
Okay, I've decided to change these "thoughts of the day" to "thoughts in the moment" as I haven't sat down consistently each day to type a thought out. Maybe this is the point- I have no idea. All I know is that I've been immersed in making changes in my life and part of this has been my absence and not sitting down each day to come to my computer and access my website.
Some of the changes has to do with my morning "rituals" and being inspired to completely shake it up- literally and now I've added sacred dance to my morning rituals. Moving the body in connecting with the Divine has totally and radically shifted my perspective on so many things. I have been inspired to change a lot of "my" work to include sacred and inspired dance and movement to everything I do. Who knew? I didn't- until a few weeks ago. So, I sit here in the wonderment and awe of the infininte intelligence/God/Spirit - the all knowing grand Master Weaver that knows exactly what is needed in any given moment and just allow for everything in my life to unfold simply, naturally and with communion and deep reverence with all of it.
Much love to you in this moment and always!
December 16, 2011
Sometimes when I feel like I'm in a world of pain, the first thing I want to do is shut down and walk away and hide. I'm not sure if you have ever felt this way - but today, for me, is one of those days. So, I sit here and write the morning "thought of the day" in the middle of the afternoon.
I so beautifully found myself opening up a book that I haven't looked at for many years. The book is entitled, "A Return to Love" by Marianne Williamson. It was so appropriate for me in this moment. This is the quote that I turned to:
.."When you meet anyone, remember its a holy encounter. As you see him, you will see yourself. As you treat him, you will treat yourself. As you think of him, you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself."
So, as I see it, I have two conscious choices in front of me in this moment. To continue in pain for today or to embrace and hold my heart and let it shine. While a part of me would prefer to put armor back around my heart, I know that this does not serve me or those around me. In this moment, I will choose to hold and embrace my heart and let it shine. I know that the only thing that is real and can heal is LOVE. I would prefer to be vulnerable and just allow my experience to be as it is instead of hiding from it or denying it. For now, I embrace LOVE in this moment as my miracle and my medicine.
Have a beautiful and joyous day filled with LOVE!
December 15, 2011
.." A large part of many people's lives is consumed by an obsessive preoccupation with things. Whatever the ego seeks and gets attached to are substitutes for the Being that it cannot feel. You can value and care for things, but whenever you get attached to them, you will know it's the ego. And you are never really attached to a thing but to a thought that has "I", "me", or "mine" in it. Whenever you completely accept a loss, you go beyond ego, and who you are, the I Am which is consciousness itself, emerges."
(excerpt taken from "Oneness With All Life" by Ekhart Tolle)
December 14, 2011
I apologize for not being around for the past few weeks. I went to a workshop and then was busy getting my life sorted out afterwards. I know its a convenient excuse for sure. Aaahhh...the excuses created by the mind in order to be isolated from others. A part of my own personal and unique journey. My mind is so good at creating excuses to be separate and to maintain a distance from others. I'm not sure where that originates from within myself but I'm willing to look at this and have been for awhile.
For today, I am willing to look at any repeating excuses that my mind or ego creates that tries to keep me separate from others. I look within in a gentle and compassionate way in order to stay as connected as I possibly can with everyone and everything.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
November 30, 2011
Today I want to share a passage from Eternal Echoes (John O'Donohue) with you. This excerpt from his book is about personal guilt.
..."When personal guilt in relation to a past event becomes a continuous cloud over your life, you are locked in a mental prison. You have become your own jailer. Although you should not erase your responsibility for the past, when you make the past your jailer, you destroy your future. It is such a great moment of liberation when you learn to forgive yourself, let the burden go, and walk out into a new path of promise and possibility.
Self-compassion is such a wonderful gift to give yourself. You should never reduce the mystery and expanse of your presence to a haunted fixation with something you did or did not do. To learn the art of integrating your faults is to begin a journey of healing on which you will regain your poise and find new creativity. Your soul is more immense than any one moment or event in your past. When you allow guilt to fester and reduce you like this, it has little to do with guilt. The guilt is only an uncomfortable but convenient excuse for your fear of growth..."
This passage presented itself to me this morning. There was such a deep resonance within myself of how I have allowed guilt to sweep me away from myself- especially "mommy" guilt. I have often experienced guilt when, as a mother, I have taken time away from my children to travel and to do my work. Sometimes the burden has been so great that I have cancelled trips and stayed home for long periods of time. In the end, I know that guilt does not serve me or my children. However, it is still something that I continue to work through within myself. May we all be free from our own internal prison systems today.
Peace and joy be yours in this moment!
November 29, 2011
..."The wind blows wherever it pleases;
You hear its sounds,
But you cannot tell where it
comes from or where it is going.
This is how it is with all who are born
of the Spirit." (John 3:8-9)
November 28, 2011
I realized in the afternoon yesterday that I had not written a thought of the day. I simply got caught up in life and making my children breakfast and watching Star Wars together with them. Aaah....life. How easy it was for me to be distracted and busy and caught up in the details of the day. How many times does this happen to you?
The most important time for me in my day is the early morning to do my daily practices. It leaves me feeling refreshed, connected, grounded and ready for the day. There have been many times when I have wanted to ignore my alarm when it wakes me up in the morning, however, I don't because I know the importance of my morning practice. I see the results of this practice and how it plays out in my days more and more.
I sit here in this moment amused with myself because this isn't at all what I had planned to write. I did have a quote I wanted to share today from Pema Chodron, however, apparently this is what I needed to write about. I write to you as if you were sitting across from me. I simply write because all I ever want to do is write. Maybe I was born to be a "rambler" of all things mundane and not mundane.
I was born a rambler and a tumble weed - just blowing in the wind my friend and going where I'm needed to go in any given moment being as present as I possibly can be. Peace, joy and love be yours today!
November 26, 2011
.."Through prayer, we learn to see with the eyes of the soul. Your normal vision is always conditioned by the needs of the ego. Prayer helps you to clearer vision. It opens you up to experiences you would never otherwise entertain. It refines your eyes for the unknown narrative that is quietly working itself through your words, actions, and thoughts. In this way, prayer issues from and increases humility..."
.."Humility" is a derivative of the Latin word "humus", meaning "of the earth." In this sense humility is the art of being open and receptive to the inner wisdom of your clay....Now, like the silent earth, the cradle of all growth, you, too, can watch the stirrings of a new springtime in the clay of your heart. You gain more courage. You become surer about who you are, and you no longer need to force either image or identity. When you come into rhythm with your nature, things happen of themselves."
(excerpt taken from: Eternal Echoes by John O'Donohue)
This quote spoke to me this morning and I felt deeply inspired to share it with you. I know that my writing is not eloquent. I do not know how to form words as masterfully as John O'Donohue. His messages are amazing to me and speak right into my heart.
If I were to have used my own words about prayer and its importance, I simply would have said, "Prayer is important to deepen your connection with the Divine." I am smiling to myself as I write this because I simply stumble with how to articulate what I feel within myself as I deepen my connection with the Divine. Thank you God for John O'Donohue for the gift and mastery of the written word to be able to articulate with such magnificent poetry what I am still unable to say.
Today, I find humour and laughter within my own unique expression of articulation. Have a blessed day!
November 25, 2011
Today I have a passage from "The Fifth Mountain" written by Paulo Coelho that I would like to share with you. (No, I'm not hiding my words today).
.."At this moment, many people have stopped living. They do not become angry, nor cry out; they merely wait for time to pass. They did not accept the challenges of life, so life no longer challenges them. You are running the same risk; react, face life, but do not stop living."
This passage spoke to me this morning because it connected with what I mentioned yesterday. Yes, I was feeling separated from source and felt the struggle within me. However, sometimes the struggle is necessary as it gives me the momentum and inspiration to keep moving forward and doing what I need to do in order to flow with life. Instead of allowing the struggle to take me over and I become passive with it - I use it as the momentum to ensure it doesn't take me to a place of complacency.
Flowing with the river of life is amazing and beautiful. Sometimes I need to jump out of the river and explore the richness of the forest that is around me. Today, is a day of that exploration before I go back to the river and float again. All of this is a part of the mystery - jumping in and out of the river - its all part of the Greater plan.
November 24, 2011
Today I wanted to "default" to someone else's words and go to a book and take a quote from another author. It would be so much easier than to be really transparent with you in the moment. Right now I admit to feeling struggle with my life. I am not allowing life to flow through me and I'm fighting against many factors in my life.
The work that I have been doing is changing and I'm observing those changes and seeing them as necessary and yet I'm fighting with it at the same time. My mind and ego are fighting with my Higher self is the most appropriate way to phrase it.
So, for now, I'm taking a deep breath and doing my best to see the Bigger picture unfolding in my life and letting myself relax and float in the river of life without the need of a life preserver. But, admittedly, having the life preserver along the banks of the river would be nice too! Just in case- aahhh...mind - thanks for showing me what I need to release today.
Today, I'm going to do my human best to flow with the river instead of against it. May you have a beautiful and joy filled day!
November 23, 2011
I woke up this morning to do my "usual" practice which includes yoga, qi gong and my prayers, however, that soon changed. I began to start my yoga and felt words pouring through me to type out. The words were more important then stretching out my body in the moment.
I listened to the guidance and stopped my yoga and went to my computer and typed out non-stop for over one hour. It isn't until this exact moment that I realized that this ties in with what I wrote yesterday. Here is a living example of listening to the guidance as it comes in.
I was able to sit down at my computer and easily and effortlessly write out the introduction to my second book. I wasn't consciously thinking about writing it out - it simply was time for me to do so. The ease in which all of the words tumbled out of me or through me is an example for me, that when I listen to guidance things just flow so seamlessly. There is no struggle or striving or pushing. Life just flows without effort.
May your day today be seamless and effortless. Much love to you in this moment!
November 22, 2011
Sometimes I ignore my intuition. I feel something strongly in my heart and my gut and I simply don't listen to these messages. I have often wondered why I do that. However, I know that this too is part of the journey. Listening and not listening to intuition. Sometimes I just need to be reminded what happens in my life when I don't listen to guidance. This is just as important as the listening too. All of it is part of the path of discovery and deepening connection with the Divine.
I'm grateful for the reminders of when I don't listen to my intuition. What that ends up doing for me, is strengthening my communication with the Divine. It puts a smile on my face as I tell myself what I won't do again in the future. Thank you Great Spirit for providing situations in my life over and over again to remind me of who I am and who I am not. Without these situations I wouldn't be so inspired to keep developing my intuition and my internal guidance system.
For today, remember - every experience is part of the spiritual path. All of it. Even the experiences when I say to myself "eegads...why did I just do that?"
November 21, 2011
Why do we tend to care what other people think about the decisions we make or how we present ourselves to the world? Why is there a tendency to look outside of ourselves for advice or to help us make decisions? Where has our connection within ourselves been lost? Why are we so afraid to trust our own intuition? When did we lose that connection with our most powerful self - our Higher self?
I realize in typing out these questions that it might not apply to you. The thoughts are generalized to the collective. I have realized in my own journey that the most important tool or skill to refine and develop is the connection I have with my own internal guidance system. The connection I have with the Divine and my intuition. For me, it is the most important aspect of the spiritual path. To stop looking outside of myself for any answers. Now that being said, yes, sometimes we must ask an expert for his/her opinion on certain matters - but this isn't what I'm talking about here.
I'm talking about those decisions that can truly only be made by you- no one knows you better than yourself. For today, practice and deepen your intuitive self. Ask your heart for guidance and trust the answers that come from that space- even if they don't make sense to your mind. Your heart knows exactly what you need in any given moment.
Peace, love and joy be yours today!
November 20, 2011
Today let's talk about the stillness of winter. Depending on where you are on the planet - you might find yourself looking upon the white snow fields of winter time or feel the cold winds blowing or the heavy rains descending upon you. This is a time for introspection and stillness and is necessary on the spiritual path.
Mother nature shows us and guides us all of the time. She brings forth the heavens here on earth to give us time to go within. Take advantage of this time. Do not complain about the cold weather, instead use this time to go deeper within yourself. Connect more fully with those you love and with yourself. Turn off the television, put away the books and any other distractions to get away from the cold and take advantage of this time.
Winter is a gift for all of us. It is a time for deeper hibernation and a time to connect more fully with your own presence and to be present. For today, spend quality time indoors with those you love or go outside and feel the stillness of nature or be immersed in rapture with Mother Nature- she is speaking with all of us all of the time.
Joy and warmth be yours today!
November 19, 2011
Open up your hearts to the sweet nectar of the Divine. There is so much love waiting there for you. Why do you hesitate to taste the sweetness within yourself? What is there to fear? Let go of all that keeps you entrapped within yourself. Do not let your mind convince you that there is something scary out there lurking and waiting to pounce on you if you let go of the fear. Step into that which you fear the most and watch it melt away into oblivion.
Today the Divine wishes to embrace you again in the fullness of your Highest expression. You are already the Light - its just a matter of remembrance.
I look forward to sharing sacred space with you. That together we all remember who we really are.
Peace, love and laughter be yours today!
November 18, 2011
Today I awoke with an insatiable thirst for the Love of the Divine. I am a seeker in all things sacred and Holy. I see the Holy in every aspect of each day. When I look out into the world I see God in everyone and everything. I thirst for the deepest connection of the Holy and sacred in every thing. I am a pilgrim and seeker of the Divine.
May our paths one day meet and be joined so that we together may deepen our connection to the Holy springs of life and all that is.
I welcome you with open arms onto the path of the sacred. May your day be Blessed.
November 17, 2011
How do you begin your day? Do you begin it in a rush, do you squeeze in that very last drop of sleep before you wake up, do you get up early to exercise or have a cup of coffee? What does your day start with?
Today, take notice of how you begin each day. Do you feel grounded and centered or do you feel scattered and in a rush? If you feel rushed, what excuses does your mind create that you do not have the time to begin your day any other way? Be mindful in this moment of the excuses and justifications of the mind that entice you to remain stuck in old patterns and conditionings that might no longer be serving you.
Have you become a slave to your mind? Or are you a free from slavery? Who is the master and who is the servant? For today, immerse yourself in the answers to these questions.
Peace and love be yours today!
November 16, 2011
My entire journey with the Divine is taking on an entirely different shape and experience. One that I could not have predicted had it come from my mind. My mind had become so attached at what my journey looked like with the Divine. In fact, my mind needed there to be "one" thing that I was to do with the Divine and just stick with that one form. This was based on previous conditioning and programming for me.
However, as my journey has continued and deepened - so to has the expression of that deepening. An awareness that eventually there is no "one" form for me. Any attachments that I had to there being a definite form are melting away and with that a free floating in the abyss of the mystery in a way I have never experienced before.
For now, I am to write and writing I am indeed. I am immersing myself in every spare moment in writing again with the Divine and completing my second book as soon as I possibly can. In the meantime, I am also extending a heart felt invitation to join me in the community in helping to build homes for the less fortunate. The next opportunity to help out with Habitat for Humanity in Edmonton is next Tuesday, November 22. I welcome you with open arms to join me in community next week.
If you don't live in the Edmonton area perhaps there is a Habitat for Humanity organization where you live and you can join with us on that day as well. Together in community we can connect with each other as one global and sacred family.
Peace, joy and laughter be yours today!
November 15, 2011
Today the message is about living life from the inside. Stay connected with your heart throughout the day and let go of the external reasons or justifications that tend to sway you and take you away from your heart center and the sacred space from within.
No matter how much anger, agitation, frustration or impatience someone else might display towards you - maintain your heart center - send this person your love knowing that they too are a child of God - same as you and are just having a moment (or many) of being disconnected from their own heart center. If you maintain your own connection with your Higher Self throughout the day watch how your own radiant and Divine self will naturally calm those around you.
If you haven't started a practice that establishes or maintains the deepest connection of your heart - perhaps today is the day to ask your heart what this practice is and how to deepen it for yourself.
Peace, joy and laughter be yours today!
November 14, 2011
I just got back from my overseas trip yesterday and I look forward to being able to connect with you again on a daily basis.
I have much to share with you and trust and know that many of these thoughts will be shared with you in the books that I am writing. For now, I can only share in a small amount in this space.
For today I want to talk about privacy. The need to protect the ego and be a "private" person. There are two different ways in which a person can be "private". One is in the form of prayer. To create the space in which to connect more intimately with the Divine. The other way is to protect the ego. To keep oneself hidden from others so as to not show weakness or vulnerability. This is the illusionary trick of the ego. It's need to protect itself from revealing the illusion that it is not real.
If you find yourself trying to protect some "hidden" aspect of yourself so as to not reveal the ego within- know that this is a trick. Be transparent - show that the ego itself is not real - show the ego within that it has no hold over you. Share all of who you are all of the time. It is the quickest and most sure way to kick the ego in the butt and let it know it has no more grip on you. Let Thy will pour through you instead and shed light wherever you go.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
October 31, 2011
Today I'm sharing a section from "Eternal Echoes" by John O'Donohue. He is able to weave together words that I cannot yet.
.."That which we can see is the visible; that which we cannot see is the invisible. Within us and around us there is an invisible world; this is where each of us comes from. Your relationship to the invisible influences so much of your life. When you cross over from the invisible into this physical world, you bring with you a sense of belonging to the invisible that you can never lose or finally cancel....
...When you enter the world, you come to live on the threshold between the visible and the invisible. The tension infuses your life with longing. Now you belong fully neither to the visible nor to the invisible. This is precisly what kindles and rekindles all your longing and your hunger to belong. You are both artist and pilgrim of the threshold...
...The invisible is one of the most powerful forms of the unknown. It envelopes our every movement. It is the region out of which we emerged and the state we are destined for, yet we never see it. There is no map with which to discern territories of the invisible. It is without texture. This is probably why we long to ignore the invisible. There is a sense in which the invisible is the home of fear. We tend to be afraid of what we cannot see or know."
I have often wondered why there is such fear of the unknown. Especially since the unknown holds unlimited potential and possibility of breaking through the veil of illusion. Why would I be afraid of breaking through the illusion to live the life I was born to live? Why would this paralyze me and keep me frozen in my tracks to move forward? Moving forward into the unknown is simply moving closer to the invisible world from whence I came. It would be similar to the sky being afraid to become more blue - to be more of itself. That doesn't make sense.
How often have I allowed the small and limited mind of the ego self to hold me back from moving forward into the vast unknown of the invisible world? A world filled with all of the treasures and a world that I was truly originated from. Why would I be so afraid to go back home? This is the deepest of my contemplations today.
This is my last "thought of the day" for a few weeks. I leave today on a trip to dive deeper into that vast unknown mystery. I pray that the fears that have paralyzed me will be melted away and released as I jump more deeply into the vast ocean of ALL that is.
Peace, joy and love be yours today! See you in a few weeks!
October 30, 2011
Today I have much to say but still cannot say it. It's simply not time. I have sat and stared at this computer screen for quite some time this morning only to simply know that it is still not time for me to write all that there is to say.
There is such Greater clarity about my life pouring through me that it is just not time to share what that is. To know this and use discernment about it - is part of what I needed to share today. Discernment. When it is time to speak and when it is not. To learn this and know this- has been quite a journey for me and a continuous one at that.
Maybe that is part of a message for today. To practice discernment. To really know when it is time to listen and when to speak. To know when it is time to just sit still and when it is time to take action. To simply listen and know within your own heart the art and practice of discernment. Sometimes its so very subtle and sometimes it has the energy of a high speed train.
For today, if you haven't already, begin the art and practice of discernment. Really listen to your heart. Listen to the nuances and ask yourself if what needs to be done, said, etc. is coming from the mind and/or ego or is it coming through you from the Divine? Make this a conscious way of being today.
October 29, 2011
There are times in this spiritual path that life can feel very painful. I have questioned this path so many times based on the experiences happening in my life. Relationships leaving my life, my entire world turned upside down. During those moments of the greatest storms I have had to go so deep inside of myself to feel the Divine purpose in all of it. To just stick with it - that no matter what - the storm will end. And even when I'm telling myself that - it doesn't always ease the burden of the situation.
However, in the end, when the storm does lift- it is only then that I have a renewed sense of clarity, strength and faith that wasn't there before. Today, for whatever reason I needed to share that with you. I know I've mentioned it before. My life over the past four years has had many moments of the most intense, excrutiating pain. I often questioned why I still would choose the spiritual path.
I know that I've needed to experience everything that I have in order to deepen my connection with the Divine and the spiritual path. It's just not always easy. The bliss and joy I feel moving through me in listening with the deepest of reverence to this path- is enough. It's more than enough for me to continue to move forward into the Greater mystery.
For today, I just wanted to say - stick with it. You are a fabulous and amazing vessel of light. You are magnificent!
October 28, 2011
I have found such deep resonance with books by John O'Donohue and Paulo Coelho. Their writings for me are so deeply poetic and spiritually meaningful. However, this morning I asked myself, do I use these quotes to hide behind my own expression or simply want to share something that I read? Am I still so afraid to write the words that come pouring through me and just let them be out there in the world?
I understand there is Divine perfection in all of my experiences. Every single one of them. Every little thing I do and say is so intimately connected to the Divine and has Divine purpose. I suppose in this moment I'm simply sharing my own vulnerability and small mindedness that still creeps into my moments. I am far from perfect in this spiritual journey. I stumble and fall and scrape my knees. I still allow my small mind to slow me down and confine me. I still allow that same mind to ask the curiosity questions that simply have no function other than as a form of entertainment and to give it some purpose in a moment.
However, I suppose in this moment I simply wanted to share where I was at and yes, leave you with a poetic quote that seemed to fit. I'm not hiding behind this quote but know it was meant to be shared.
..."The Warrior knows that he is free to choose his desires, and he makes these decisions with courage, detachment, and sometimes with just a touch of madness."
Have a beautiful and joy filled day!
October 27, 2011
Today I have a quote from "Eternal Echoes" by John O'Donohue. This quote seemed to fit in with what was mentioned yesterday about prayer.
..."Unknown to you, prayer is always at the service of destiny. Your days and ways are never simply as they appear on the surface. Human vision is always limited and selective, and you never see the whole picture. The Providence that weaves your days sees the greater horizon and knows what your life needs in order for you to come fully to birth as the person you are called to be.
Prayer refines you, so that you may become worthy of your possibility and destiny. The irony of being here is that sometimes it is precisely what you want to avoid that brings you further towards creativity and compassion."
I have spent years and years praying to Great Spirit for many things to happen and occur in my life. I have often felt that my prayers were not heard and certainly never saw the immediacy of results. The immediacy of course, being mind based and "my" will trying to persuade the Divine to turn things according to my own timing. Over the past few weeks I have had many prayers in my life answered after many years. When I look back at my life and my experiences - I can now see why my prayers were not answered immediately. There were many things that I needed to go through in my life first before the prayers were answered.
All along the prayers were indeed heard. I needed to let go of my own will and my own timing in all of it and completely surrender to "Thy" will be done - in Divine time and in Divine order. All of this has strengthened my faith and trust in the Divine beyond words. It has fortified my beliefs in the power of prayer and that indeed all prayers are heard. I need to continue to trust in the Divine and let go of any of my own limited vision and perspectives about life. At the end of the day, I have no idea the Greater perspective of my life. All I can do in each moment is absolutely trust in every nuance of my life unfolding in the most magnificent way - according to "Thy" will be done.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
October 26, 2011
Today a message about pain and suffering.
Today look at pain and suffering as a gift in which to break through all the next layers of mind and ego that have kept you trapped in an existence that no longer serves you.
See it all as an opportunity to bring you closer to your own humanity and to the Greater humanity. It is meant to bring you closer to the depths within yourself. When you are in pain and suffering it is hard sometimes to see anything but that. You are in the depths of hell and cannot see beyond it. When its time, you will slowly see the Greater wisdom that was working through you- to bring you out of all of the illusion.
It was meant for you to see a new horizon. Most of the time that horizon is only shown you when the pain and suffering is nearing the end. Only then will you more clearly see the beautiful new sunrise. So, stick with it. Know there is a Greater love moving through your life even if you don't see it at the time.
Pray and pray some more. There is an end if you choose to see it as a gift. Dig deeper and deeper inside of yourself. Let go of any mental analysis and keep praying. Your prayers are indeed heard and listened to. You might not get an immediate response to your prayers but eventually in Divine time all of your prayers will come true.
So keep praying -you are being listened to.
October 25, 2011
There is a difference between speaking truth based on mind, illusion and fear and speaking truth based on authenticity and love. To speak truth from mind is to try to prove some position as being right or wrong. To speak truth from an authentic and loving space is to prove nothing other than to create a way to bring you closer to someone else.
My question to you is this: Do you know the difference within yourself? Is the truth you speak meant to create separation from someone else or to bring you more deeply connected?
October 24, 2011
Another message to communicate with you today...
Let's talk about hidden expressions today. All the ways in which we hide ourselves from the truth. All the ways we don't communicate that truth to others. We hide our feelings, we hide our gifts, we hide what we really want to say to others for fear they will reject us or abandon us or tell someone else what we said; thereby, setting off a change reaction in the office or with our families or our friends.
We don't say what we really need to say or what we feel inspired to say because we are afraid. Our mind traps us into a constant state of fear. The fear of the unknown, fear people cannot handle what it is we might say to them- that they will get angry at us for speaking the truth.
Why are we so afraid to speak the truth? When it is truth coming through us- its just God talking to someone else and using us to communicate that truth. If someone reacts this is a good thing. It's simply showing them what they most need to hear to support them in their journey. When we are speaking with the voice of Love- the Greater truth will penetrate into the depths like water penetrates into the sand. Speak your truth today from a place of authentic love and see what shows up.
October 23, 2011
Today, I again just allowed whatever message that needed to come through me for you to present itself.
Would there be weather or storms, the internal storms within - what is your storm? Where are your hurricanes and tornadoes? What is your rain and tropical storm? What is your wind? What is your breeze?
Where do these come from if not from the mind? The mind can fool you to believe that it is generated by God, but this is not true. God doesn't generate these things- you do. Your mind generates your storms. There is no storm that takes place in the inner depths in the heart of God. It is bliss and stillness and joy. So let go of the storms. These are but fleeting glimpses of the madness of the mind.
Instead allow the stillness of the heart to penetrate you today. Clouds come and go but the sun is always shining and the skies are always blue- just like your heart. It might get hurt and trampled on and disregarded and abandoned but the Greater heart that pumps through you loves you so much and so deeply. Always remember that the Greater love is always there no matter what storm clouds appear on your horizon. There is a Greater love penetrating your heart.
October 22, 2011
Today - this is not about me sharing something from my day or my own thoughts. Today, I simply opened myself up to the guidance that pours through me. I opened up my channel and asked the Divine for a message that needed to be expressed today. I did not change one word. This message came through me for you - it is not from me.
My dearest brothers and sisters, my children...
There is still much for you to know and learn but first today I want you to look at the complacency in your life. Where have you stood still and done nothing or ignored the cries of those who need to be heard? Where have you neglected your own family, and yourself? Where have you remained hidden and in secret and not revealing your heart?
Where have you wished you could lend a hand out to another but kept on moving because you were going to be late for meeting someone for a coffee or a lunch? Where have you neglected your fellow man or woman? Where have you neglected yourself?
Today find time to be less neglectful, less complacent, less paralyzed. Get up and start to move in the direction of your heart and ignore those who would tell you otherwise; for they know not what they do and have forgot their own heart - but you have not - so get moving today to do something to jump start your heart and your compassion for yourself and others.
October 21, 2011
Well, I had given myself permission to sleep in again today. I wanted to keep giving my body rest, however, it didn't require the rest and I woke up naturally early this morning. This allowed me to spend even more time doing my early morning practices - which is obviously what I needed to do more than sleep.
So, I sit here with clearer vision and very grounded for my day. I have noticed many internal shifts within myself lately and one of them is a deep surrender to living life from a more spiritual perspective. I'm really noticing more signs and messages from the spirit world and using this form of communication more and more each day - dropping communication from the mind and mental world as much as possible throughout the day.
In some ways I feel that I'm being "trained" by the spirit world to really notice the subtlest of clues and observations of how spirit guides and angels communicate with me constantly throughout the day. This has always been there of course, its just that now I seem to be more acutely aware of it all. It seems amplified in my life right now and it keeps me in a constant state of awe. Life is so amazingly precious and beautiful when I really allow myself to observe, witness and listen to the constant communication from the spirit world. It's truly amazing.
Perhaps for today simply be in a state of observation - not from the mind - (which would entail analysis) - but from nature, people, experiences and just notice and be aware of how it all just flows today.
Peace and joy be yours today!
October 20, 2011
I'm not sure what time or when you will be reading this thought today, however, suffice it to say I'm typing this later in the morning. I decided to actually sleep in this morning. Normally, I get up very early each morning to do my prayers, yoga, and qi gong routine - however, today I knew I needed rest. I decided last night before going to bed that I needed to honor my body and rest today.
I started to get a cold upon returning from my trip from Ireland and have been on the go pretty much non-stop since then. Of course, my cold kept getting worse and hasn't really got much better. So, last night I was sitting down after doing a healing circle and that's when it finally "dawned" on me. My body needed a lot of rest to heal itself and I wasn't honoring it by providing it what it needed to heal. It's so very obvious to me in this moment but wasn't as apparent to me for the last few weeks.
I was constantly making excuses with myself that I couldn't sleep in - that I had a lot to do each day and that sleeping in would interfere with my plans for the day. Ha Ha on me. I'm sure that if I had given myself more rest earlier on - this cold would not have lasted for as long as it has. Sometimes it takes me awhile to listen to my body- but eventually it makes it very clear to me what needs to be done in order to get healthy again.
Has there been times in your life when you haven't listened to your body and what it needs to feel better? Is there any resonance within yourself in this moment about something you might be avoiding or procrastinating with regards to your own health? Something perhaps that you need to let go of or to add in to your life to support your body in being more vibrant and energized?
The body is so wise and intelligent and knows exactly what it needs to stay healthy and be healthy - what is that for you?
October 19, 2011
Well, yesterday I took a huge leap and had my hair darkened. To give you some history, I've always kept my hair color lighter my entire life. I trusted my hair stylist when he told me that he needed to go a few shades darker than my natural color in order to start to get rid of all of the blonde highlights. Well, when he was all done- I honestly didn't even recognize myself. If it weren't for my blue eyes staring back at me I wouldn't know it was me!
So, why am I sharing this with you today? It might seem a trivial thing to color one's hair, however, for me it represented a transfiguration. I actually felt more real and more myself with my hair darkened. It was truly about not being attached to my appearance and to just have some fun and take a risk. It represented the internal shifts within myself. Sometimes all it takes is small steps into the unknown and giving it a whirl to see what happens.
What's the worst thing that can happen? I can always change my hair color again anytime I want to. This spiritual journey truly is up to me - how far I choose to dive into the depths or if I just want to dangle my feet into the water for awhile before I plunge back into the ocean again. For the past year I have dangled my feet into the ocean and have sat still (from my perspective) and now I feel the tides changing and its time again to dive deeper into the depths of the ocean and see what it is there- now only this time - with darker hair!
What is one thing you can do today or this week that is a small step for you in shaking things up and doing things differently?
Have fun stirring up any complacency, stagnation or routine in your life! Whoo-hoo what a trip!
October 18, 2011
Good morning/afternoon/evening!
It's been a few days since I last wrote in this "thought of the day". I was in a bit of my own process and gunk to be honest. There was a part of my small mind that simply didn't feel that what I was writing was making any difference to anyone who might be reading these thoughts of the day - and to simply give it all up and call it a day.
However, Greater mind has come through quite clearly for me in the past few days to keep writing. Knowing the difference between small mind and Greater mind is to learn discernment for sure. For whatever reason I am being used by Greater mind/Great Spirit, to share with you my openness and vulnerability in my own process - to be as naked as possible without taking my clothes off!
So, today I share with you that I am learning day by day to discern between small mind and Greater mind and in the end for me - Greater mind always shows me a Higher way. Also, by "Higher" way I don't mean this in an ego based way - of greater than or less than - simply an expression of living moment to moment in the flow of life and not against it.
Have a beautiful and joy filled day!
October 13, 2011
.."Know that no day is the same as another, and that each morning contains its own particular miracle, its magic moment, when old universes are destroyed and new stars created."
(Paulo Coelho)
For me, this quote was a reminder to treat each day as new and to be open to the possibilities and potentials that will unfold throughout the day. So, for today I open myself up to the miracles that exist in this new space.
October 12, 2011
The quote for today is taken from "The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore" by Alan Cohen.
.."We tend to live on the periphery of our beings, seeking outside solutions for inside problems. When we believe that a degree, a raise, or a house can clinch our security, we sooner or later find that there is no more- or less- security, outside than there is inside. And we see, too, that disillusionment is the best thing that could happen to us, for disillusionment means that illusion is over, and Reality is obvious."
For me, this quote resonated as it brought to the surface that which I still cling to for "security". I still attach security with how much money I have in my bank account. This is definitely something I'm still working at releasing from within myself. I know, intellectually, that money can't buy me happiness, that the amount of money that I need or have is an illusion and yet energetically there is a whole different story playing itself out in my life.
I am very interested indeed in how this will continue to unfold in my life as I release the illusion of money and the concept of security in my life. It is one of the next steps in my journey of releasing all that holds me back - a limitation and illusion created by my mind to keep me small and trapped.
A question I would pose to you today: "What are the illusions that are keeping you trapped and limited?"
May your day be joyous and abundant!
October 11, 2011
Today I have a quote from "Eternal Echoes" by John O'Donohue.
.."When you choose someone or some way of life, you invest your heart. Choice becomes an invitation to commitment. When you commit, you deepen presence. Though your choice narrows the range of possibility now open to you, it increases the intensity of the chosen possibility. New dimensions of the chosen path reveal themselves, a new path opens inwards to depth and outwards to new horizons. Your choice has freed your longing from dispersing itself over a whole range of surface..."
I chose this quote this morning because for me, it lies deeply in my heart. I have chosen to live a spiritually led life and I'm in constant process of letting go of all that I have mentally learned and accumulated from the past. Sometimes this journey has many challenges along the way as I let go more of "my will" and let "THY" will pour through my life. However difficult the challenges feel in any given moment, I know for me, it is necessary in order for me to continue to deepen presence in my life. This is an eternal journey and one that I continue to embrace and look forward to in each given moment.
Joy, peace, eternal love and presence be yours today!
October 10, 2011
Today in Canada we celebrate a holiday called "Thanksgiving". It is a time to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and all that we have in our lives. There is deeper spiritual significance to this. What does it mean to you to have a "bountiful" life? What are you truly grateful for? Are you thankful for possessions in your life or those who are in your life? Are you grateful to be alive and have your physical body?
For me, my gratitude simply has me extend my eyes and heart upwards to the heavens. Thank you for my teachings, and having my heart opened up to you. May I continue to learn to extend this gratitude to those who also seek comfort in your loving arms.
Blessings and love be yours today!
October 7, 2011
I won't be on the computer for a few days as I'm about to step into a meditation retreat for the weekend. For today, I found a beautiful passage in the book "Eternal Echoes", written by John O'Donohue, that I would like to leave you with for the weekend.
.."Real friendship is a powerful presence in helping you to see the prisons within which you live. From inside your own life, it is so difficult to gain enough distance to look back on yourself and see the outer shape of your life. This discernment is often easier for your friend than it would be for you.
Real friends will never come with a battering ram to demolish the prison in which they see you. They know that it could be too soon. You are not yet ready to leave. They also know that until you see for yourself how and where you are caught, you cannot become free. If they destroy this prison cell, you will inevitably build a new one from the old material.
True friendship attunes itself in care to the rhythm of your soul. In conversation and affection, your friend will only attempt something very modest, namely, to remove one pebble from the wall. When that pencil of light shines in on your darkness, it arouses your longing to become free. It reminds you of the freshness and fragrance of another life that you had learned to forget in your cell. This dot of light empowers you, and then, brick by brick, you will remove the walls you had placed between the light and yourself.
True friendship trusts the soul to find the light, to loosen one pebble in the wall and open the way to freedom. Massive inner structures begin to loosen and break when the first pencil-thin beam of recognition hits us. "
For me, I haven't read or felt such an exquisite explanation of true friendship. I felt the resonance of this passage deeply in my heart. For today, I will use this resonance as I deepen my connection with the Divine this weekend in my own meditation practice.
Peace and joy be yours this weekend!
October 6. 2011
For those who have ever feared that love has been lost or hidden or denied. This is not true- love is everywhere and in everything and in everyone. It is only your mind that denies you that Greater Love. Its time to let go of all of the mind filled illusions, fabrications and disconnection from Source.
If you sit and read this message and think it bullocks or not possible or not true- its time to tell your mind to let go of its version of reality. It is your mind that keeps you shackled, and chained to smallness and to small self. Today, concentrate on letting go of the next link of the chain that binds you to illusion.
Love is everywhere - all of the time- this is Truth. Now, its time to go out there and know this within every cell of your being.
Peace, joy and love be yours today!
October 5, 2011
.."There are two types of prayers.
In the first type, the person asks for certain things to happen and attempts to tell God what he should do. This does not allow the Creator either time or space in which to act. God- who knows perfectly well what is best for each of us- will continue to do as he sees fit. And the person praying is left with the impression that his prayer went unanswered.
In the second type, the person may not understand the Almighty's intentions, but he allows his life to develop according to his Creator's plans. He asks to be spared suffering, he asks for joy in the Good Fight, but he never forgets to add: "Thy will be done."
This is how the Warrior of the Light chooses to pray."
(Paulo Coelho)
October 4, 2011
The work of Paulo Coelho has presented itself into my life. I had heard about him and his work for years but never felt drawn to his work until a month ago. Now, I am just absorbing his work and his words. Today, I have a quote for you from his book, entitled "Warrior of the Light".
.."The Warrior of the Light is terrified when making important decisions. "This is too much for you," says a friend. "Go on, be brave," says another. And so his doubt grows.
After some days of anxiety, he withdraws to the corner of his tent where he usually sits to meditate and pray. He sees himself in the future. He sees the people who will benefit or be harmed by his attitude. He does not want to cause pointless suffering, but nor does he want to abandon the path.
The Warrior allows the decision to reveal itself. If he has to say "yes", he will say it bravely. If he has to say "no", he will say it without a trace of cowardice."
For me, this quote spoke to me about the power of meditation and prayer. That it is important for me to take time when making important decisions and wait and see what answer unfolds from my heart and guidance. In the past, I have acted impulsively and from the ego and mind, causing suffering to myself and those around me. Now, more often, I use prayer and meditation to shut the mind chatter down and allow Spirit or the Divine to pour through and reveal the best and Highest possible decision for all of those involved.
Peace be yours today!
October 3, 2011
Today's quote comes from the "Fifth Mountain" written by Paulo Coelho.
.."It's always necessary to know when a stage of one's life has ended. If you stubbornly cling to it after the need has passed, you lose the joy and meaning of the rest..."
This passage from Paulo's book really resonated with me this morning. For me it was about looking at how often in the past I have clung on to situations, experiences, people and memories far beyond their expiration date. My mind can be so tricky to keep me trapped in the past - to keep me shackled and small.
I keep practicing discernment of when its time to let go of the past and keep moving forward. There is time to keep healing trauma from the past and when that healing is over, to then use those experiences as a vehicle and momentum to move forward and transform my life.
Peace and joy be yours today!
October 2, 2011
I was on facebook this morning and a beautiful angel posted that the month of October is the only month this year that has 5 mondays, 5 saturdays, and 5 sundays. This only happens once in 823 years. This is called money bags and the number 5 is associated with abundance.
For me, beyond the significance of the 5 that is prevalent this month, is the rare occurrence in which this happens. Thank you beautiful angel for sharing in this wisdom with all of us this morning. I love seeing the rare and special occasions to celebrate life and open up to the grandeur of the Divine, and sweet synchronicities of life.
Have a beautiful and joy filled day! Blessings be yours!
October 1, 2011
Today I want to acknowledge the birth of a new month. The month of October (for Canadians) is the month of Thanksgiving. To give thanks to all of our blessings and our bountiful lives. I honor and cherish this month in a new way today.
I start each day with gratitude for all that is in my life and all that I've been blessed to have experienced and for all of you - those who find themselves reading this passage. God bless(es) you. Thank you for being here with me in this moment. I am so grateful to share in this journey and this moment with you.
Much joy and love be yours today!
September 30, 2011
I purchased a book by Paulo Coelho entitled, "The Fifth Mountain". I was able to read it during my long wait in the airport before coming back to Canada from Ireland.
There was a passage in the book that I would like to share with you today.
..."The brave are always stubborn"...From heaven, God smiles contentedly, for it was this that He desired, that each person take into his hands the responsibility for his own life. For, in the final analysis, He had given His children the greatest of all gifts: the capacity to choose and determine their acts.
Only those men and women with the sacred flame in their hearts had the courage to confront Him. And they alone knew the path back to His love, for they understood that tragedy was not punishment but challenge. "
This particular passage struck a chord within me this morning. There have been many moments in my life over the past few years that I have questioned all of the challenges that have presented themselves in my life. I have wanted to give up on this spiritual path and say "#$@k" it more times than I can count. However, bit by bit I have continued to pick myself up, dust off the debris and kept moving slowly forward.
Thank you Great Spirit for showing me the way back to your Love and giving me the courage to dive deeper into the Greater mystery.
May the Love of All that Is penetrate deeply into your heart today and Highest Blessings be present.
September 29, 2011
Hi Everyone! It's so great to be back in Edmonton after my trip to Ireland. The experiences there were so beyond the mind and intellect. It truly was an amazing, magical and mystical experience of diving deeper into the heart and soul of Ireland and with Divine self. I cannot even put into words all that happened there - other than to say that Spirit was definitely there with each person and the grace bestowed upon us was truly the heart of inspiration at work.
I look forward to going back there again and sharing in that journey with others. Today, I simply sit in awe with Spirit and Divine Self feeling the deeper connection with all that is.
Blessings be yours today!
September 19, 2011
Today I chose a quote from Pema Chodron's book entitled, "When Things Fall Apart".
.."In order to feel compassion for other people, we have to feel compassion for ourselves. In particular, to care about people who are fearful, angry, jealous, overpowered by addictions of all kinds, arrogant, proud, miserly, selfish, mean, you name it -to have compassion and to care for these people means not to run from the pain of finding these things in ourselves. In fact, our whole attitude toward pain can change. Instead of fending it off and hiding from it, we could open our hearts and allow ourselves to feel that pain, feel it as something that will soften and purify us and make us far more loving and kind."
I will immerse myself this week with this message and bring it more fully into my heart so that it may soften my heart and continue to break down the barriers I keep between myself and others.
I also wanted to let you know that I'm leaving today for the beautiful and magical island of Ireland and will return next week. Have a beautiful and amazing week - filled with joy, adventure, mystery, laughter, love, chocolate and all things delightful!
September 18, 2011
Today, I am still using the book Eternal Echoes by John O'Donohue.
.."The geography of your destiny is always clearer to the eye of your soul than to the intentions and the needs of your surface mind. The eye of the soul can see in all directions. When you truly listen to the voice of your soul, you awaken your kinship with the eternal urgency that longs to lead you home.
The deepest call to a creative life comes from within your own interiority. It may be awakened or occasioned by a person or situation outside you, yet the surest voice arises from your own secret depth. The surest choosing grows out of the natural soil of experience. The Buddhists say, "When the apple is ripe, it falls of itself from the Tree."
I chose this quote today because it was a reminder for me to make decisions from my heart space and inner guidance instead of those created by the mind. It is a constant journey for me to be able to discern the differences between decisions created by the mind and those that come through my heart. Sometimes it comes through in obvious ways and sometimes in subtle whispers.
Each day in my prayers and invocations I ask that my heart make the decisions and to keep releasing any old aspects of small self, ego and personality structures that hold me back from more fully connecting with the Divine source within me and coming through me. Yes, indeed I surrender my life to the eyes of my soul to take me back home again. I breathe in this new moment and being more fully present today. Blessings to you today!
September 17, 2011
I opened up to this page in Eternal Echoes this morning:
.."May you listen to your longing to be free.
May the frames of your belonging be large enough for the dreams of your soul.
May you arise each day with a voice of blessing whispering in your heart that something good is going to happen to you.
May you find a harmony between your soul and your life.
May the mansion of your soul never become a haunted place.
May you know the eternal longing which lives at the heart of time.
May there be kindness in your gaze when you look within.
May you never place walls between the light and yourself.
May your angel free you from the prisons of guilt, fear, disappointment and despair.
May you allow the wild beauty of the invisible world to gather you, mind you, and embrace you in belonging."
Have a beautiful and joy filled day!
September 16, 2011
Today I'd like to share a quote from Eternal Echoes written by John O'Dohonue.
.."Discovery is the nature of the soul. There is some wildness of divinity in us, calling us to live everything. When you open your heart to discovery, you will be called to step outside the comfort barriers within which you have fortified your life. You will be called to risk old views and thoughts and to step off the circle of routine and image.
This will often bring turbulence. The pendulum will fix at times on one extreme, and you will be out of balance. But your soul loves the danger of growth. In its own wise trust, you soul will always return you to a place of real and vital equilibrium."
This quote to me was so beautiful and perfectly timed. Based on my experiences from yesterday and what I'm experiencing currently. The art of discovery. This is such a beautiful and vibrant way to live life. For me, it brings those turbulent waters indeed and the grips of fear, but when I turn and face the fears, ride the wave and see life from an expanded perspective - whowza! Alleluiah! Life is such a grand adventure!
Speaking of adventures, I'm putting together a spiritual adventure and transformational healing experience in Puerto Rico in February 2012. Most of the details are now on my website in the "spiritual retreats/tours" section. I'm so excited to be able to offer this amazing trip to whomever feels the inspiration to keep reaching beyond any limitations and restrictions and feel the wave of expansion!
Peace, joy, and the art of discovery be yours today!
September 15, 2011
Yesterday, I had a lot of fear show up as I decided to shake up security and routine aspects of my life. Such an interesting journey for sure! Aahh...fear...shows me where I am stuck and stagnate and need to keep reaching and moving beyond my own limitations and restrictions.
I still feel the fear right now as I type this. I'm just breathing it all in right now and not letting my mind get the best of me and take me on a spinning crazy frenzy of worry of the unknown. Today my focus will be on reaching and stretching beyond what I have experienced in the past and just keep free floating in the natural unfolding of the day. I'm free floating today with big, deep and long breaths!
September 14, 2011
.."Habit is a strong invisible prison. Habits are styles of feeling, perception or action that have now become second nature to us. A habit is a sure cell of predictability; it can close you off from the unknown, the new and the unexpected....When you allow your life to move primarily along the tracks of habit, the creative side of your life diminishes." (John O'Donohue: Eternal Echoes)
I chose this quote today because it was a reminder about how easily I can slip and stay stuck in the mental structures and routines of life. Today, seems like a good day to take inventory of where I can get trapped and stuck without even realizing it. Some questions to consider today: Where has your life and/or relationships become routine, dull, deadened, habitual, or stagnate? Is it time to shake up the habitual and routine patterns of your day? How has your life become a series of automatic impulses or reflexes throughout the day? Do you even remember the act of brushing your teeth this morning, having your shower, getting changed? Have these acts become so routine that you don't actually realize that you are awake until you arrive to work or until you've had that first cup of coffee? Where in your life have you fallen into a deep sleep?
Today shake up the routine and habitual patterns of your daily life and see what unfolds. Live each moment as a natural unfolding of the Divine moving through your life. Drop all expectations and goals for the day and move organically and with the flow of your breath and life.
Today I choose to break free of any self imposed limitations, routine, and habits and open up to the natural creative life force moving through me moment by moment. I open up to the unexpected and give myself permission to be surprised throughout the day!
September 13, 2011
Well, I don't know about you, but yesterday was quite a day for me. I began to immerse myself into the quote that I wrote yesterday. It kept penetrating into my thoughts and my actions. I'm still committed to working through the layers of confinements and self imposed prisons that I have created over time and releasing all that no longer serves me.
It is not an easy thing to admit to myself where I have become my own jailer. To lock myself away based on the past and to hide because of old fear and trauma from the past. Quite awhile ago, as I dove deeper into the CCTH work old story lines began to disappear. As more were released there were less ways in which to identify myself with. Who was I without the story lines?
If I could not use the old story lines and all the attachments of drama, chaos, turmoil, trauma, tragedy, and victimization - then who was I beyond this? What image could I cling to that would give me some form of identity? As I started to become more immersed in the Greater "I" of who I was - I would experience more moments of panic as I free floated in the Greater mystery of life without the attachments and identification of the story lines.
Now perhaps at first glance you might think - well, isn't this a good thing- to be more immersed in the Greater aspect of "I"? Of course, I would answer. However, there were, and still are, layers of ego and mind that would do whatever they could to pull me back into the past and into the self imposed prison system again. It is an interesting challenge for sure. To stick with the presence of the Now and not get caught up in the entanglements of the ego and mind. I still have much work to do. When I feel the Greater bliss and joy in the moment I really cherish it.
Today, I continue to commit to releasing any identification with the past and all of the old story lines that my ego and mind want me to hang on to. It's simply time to release the next layer(s) of confinement and keep moving forward into the Greater abyss of who I am not.
Peace and joy be yours today!
September 12, 2011
The quote for today is from John O'Donohue's book Eternal Echoes.
Rousseau said: "Man was born free, yet everywhere I look, I see him in chains." Each of us has a reservoir of unknown freedom, yet our fear holds us back. The worst chains are not the chains which others would have you wear. The chains with which you manacle yourself cut deepest and hold you the longest." (John O'Donohue)
This quote struck a huge chord within me this morning. I don't have much to say about it - as it speaks for itself and is going to be the focus of my day (or week). Where do I still manacle myself to the past? Where am I unwilling to let go of thoughts/experiences of my past that keep me chained in guilt, blame, anger, resentment, jealousies, comparisons and judgment?
I am the only one who keeps me chained and imprisoned in a world that no longer serves me. It's time to begin a new unraveling process of going deeper within myself to keep letting go of all of the self imposed prisons that keep me from experiencing freedom in the eternal Now.
May I go into this unraveling process with compassion, gentleness and loving kindness towards myself. To go to those parts within myself that I have continued to deny don't exist - but still do. Another area of darkness within myself that needs some light to shine so that it may be transformed and transmuted. An alchemical process of turning darkness into light, pain into joy, suffering into healing action.
September 11, 2011
Today is the 10th Anniversary of 9/11. I have never been very "politically" minded or get involved with any aspects of politics. I say that because I don't know what to say about 9/11 from an "informed" place. I know that war still exists everywhere. That tragedies still take place as well as trauma and chaos on a day to day basis.
I know that 9/11 changed many people's lives and that airport security in North America, in particular, changed a great deal since then. I honor the anniversary of 9/11 and all of the lives that were impacted. However, I also have my heart open to everyone everywhere that still experiences war, injury, pain and suffering. Lives are constantly being lost. It's not something I want to think about too much because I would be overwhelmed by it all. All of the pain and suffering that takes place everyday.
So, for today - I acknowledge that pain and suffering does exist. I will do my part in my heart today to be more compassionate, open, loving, forgiving and gentle with myself and others. A small contribution to creating peace and opening myself up to everyone else who suffers today - with loving kindness.
September 10, 2011
Today, as I sat down at my computer I didn't know what I was going to write about. My impulse was to continue where I left off from yesterday. I thought I would write more about the lightness and joy of life. However, as I began typing out the date a voice came through that I should look up the patron saint for today or look at the historical significance of today. I did both.
I went on the internet and couldn't find much for today's date - other than the fact that it is leading up to September 11th and the 10th anniversary of 9/11 - which I will honor tomorrow and do not want to disregard its significance or impact. I then looked up patron saints. For today, in the Roman Catholic traditions, the saint that is honored is Saint Nicholas of Tolentino. He was an Italian saint and peacemaker in a city torn by civil war. He often visited prisoners and was considered a wonder-worker and healer.
In this moment I feel a greater reverence for all of those who devoted their lives to help others. No matter what tradition, religion, faith, or country - today, in our hearts let us spend a few moments of gratitude for those who poured their hearts out for others. Let's also keep in our prayers all of those who do that in the present day- including yourself.
May your day be filled with gratitude, love, celebration and joy!
September 9, 2011
I realized last night that my "thoughts of the day" have not addressed the "lighter" side of life. My heart was so filled with giggles and laughter yesterday and such a beautiful lightness. That's when the realization came to me.
So, my thought for you today is about lightening up and enjoying this beautiful journey called "life". Have lots of chocolate if that's what you feel like today, laugh, giggle, hug someone, share a smile with a stranger, be silly and goofy to change the atmosphere in the work place, buy a flower for a friend or colleague who might really need that for today - simply spread joy wherever you go.
Laugh a lot, dance and shake your booty, add a skip to your step, walk your dog twice today not because he/she needs it but because you choose to spend more time outside today, turn your face upwards into the sun and feel the heat warm your skin, and oh, did I mention- have some chocolate - celebrate life today and all of the miracles and blessings in each moment!
Today is such a beautiful day to be alive and be here on the planet - let's have some fun and throw a great big party today!! Whoo-hoo!!
September 8, 2011
Good morning! I'm sitting here at my computer looking at the time and wondering where the morning has gone already. Today I wanted to share a quote with you.
.."Examine the nature of unborn awareness.."
....This simply means its a process of examination and contemplation that leads into being able to relax with the insecurity or edginess or restlessness. Much joy comes from that."
(Pema Chodron)
This quote resonated with me today. For me it was a reminder that to be on the spiritual path means to surrender to the fact that living in the unknown is to live in a constant state of having no idea what the day will bring. To let go of all of the questions of the mind and just BE present to the moment. It is definitely a different way to live life - beyond what I have been used to and what I grew up with knowing. It is like being reborn every day.
May your day be filled with blessings !
September 7, 2011
Another passage from Paulo Coelho today. This time it is taken from a book entitled, "The Devil and Miss Prym".
.."She had just realized there were two things that prevent us from achieving our dreams: believing them to be impossible or seeing those dreams made possible by some sudden turn of the wheel of fortune, when you least expected it. For at that moment, all our fears suddenly surface: the fear of setting off along a road heading who knows where, the fear of a life full of new challenges, the fear of losing forever everything that is familiar."
For me, this reminded me that to take the necessary risks to make the changes I feel guided to do I will be faced with new fears. I can feel the fears rising within me and I want to run away. However, I am learning in my journey that I need to face the fears head on and embrace them as my friends and allies. Once I do this, I realize the illusion of the fears in the first place and watch them melt away and dissolve out of my life. I feel the freedom and liberation that comes from doing this.
Slowly, step by step in this spiritual journey I feel ever so closer to the Wisdom inside of myself and coming through me. I feel my relationship to the Divine deepening and I keep moving forward in an ever changing world knowing that all is well today and in this moment.
Have a joy filled and passion filled day today!
September 6, 2011
The quote today comes from the book entitled, "Life" by Paulo Coelho.
.."A disciple can never imitate the steps of his guide, because each of us has our own way of seeing life, of coping with difficulties and with victories. Teaching is merely showing that something is possible. Learning is making something possible for yourself."
This quote resonated with me this morning because it was a reminder that I don't actually learn unless I do something for myself. To reach beyond my current reality I must take my own action steps. I can read about what others have done and feel inspiration about their acts of courage, however, it is only in taking the necessary steps in my own life that I will feel my own source of inspiration coming through. I will know for myself what is possible and what I'm capable of.
I have taken several trips abroad on my own. I started off taking trips to Europe, which for me at the time, was courageous and empowering. I knew I would be safe and that all would be well. However, I needed to actually experience it for myself to know with certainty that this was true.
Slowly over time I have become more adventurous in my travels and have now travelled to third world countries on my own without any difficulties. Each step of the way I have learned by risking and doing what I needed to do on my own path of exploration and discovery of what is possible. I have no idea where any of this will continue to take me in my life, however, all I know is that I'm learning more about myself and about life in all of its many facets.
Today be the author of your own life. Create a quote for yourself that is about the truth of your own experiences. Be alive and present to each moment - a blessing and a gift to be treasured.
September 5, 2011
Last night, for whatever reason, I felt drawn to a book that I had read a few months ago. When I suddenly feel drawn to a book I know that there is something more going on than just simple curiosity. Before I opened up the book, I asked to turn to the most appropriate page that would be healing and helpful for me.
The page I turned to discussed obstacles and how they can be perceived.
.."What we call obstacles are really the way the world and our entire experience teach us where we're stuck. Whether we experience what happens to us as obstacle or enemy or as teacher and friend depends entirely on our perception of reality. It depends on our relationship with ourselves...
..When you are being squeezed in life and things are becoming unbearable do you close down or open up? Do you feel resentful and bitter or do you soften? Do you become more wise or stupid? As a result of pain, do you know more about what it is like to be human, or less? Do you become more critical of the world or more generous?" (Pema Chodron: When Things Fall Apart)
The page(s) that I opened up to in the book was no accident or mere coincidence. It was exactly what I needed to be reminded of and work through in my own evolution to be closer to my own humanity. For me, it has brought to the surface all of the habitual patterns and reactions that I tend to use when in a "rough" patch in life.
During more challenging times, I have a tendency to forget all that I know and go into "retreat" mode and want to hide. Instead of embracing what is in the moment I want to run away and pretend that it doesn't exist. I tend to procrastinate, distract myself in a variety of different ways, and start to close down. My mind becomes obsessive in staying stuck in a world of emotional pain and suffering.
Living life in the unknown and Greater mystery becomes very challenging but only because it is meant to show me more and teach me how to stay in the moment. However, I'm up to the challenge.
Today I will continue to ponder the questions posed on the pages I read and keep diving into the abyss of having no clue how the day will unfold. There is freedom in "having no clue" - it releases any form of control and really allows God and the Divine into my life.
May the Greater mystery be a part of your day today!
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