All day long, we make decisions. Sometimes we do this consciously, but most of the time we don't. We decide what sort of mood we'll be in. We decide what sort of response to make to situations and people in our lives. Then we experience the results of those decisions.
When we don't realize we are actually making decisions, we start to believe we are at the mercy of other people and situations. That's when the trouble begins! "So and so makes me so mad!" No, we decide to react with anger to what someone does. There's a huge difference. In one case, we get to own our lives and in the other we give away our power.
Most of the time our decisions are made so quickly we don't realize we made a choice! The only way to take more ownership of our decisions is to be more aware, pay more attention to our responses and reactions. It's really fun and empowering to notice when you are making decisions that you don't like because you can change them on the spot if you want to do that.
If you are at all sensitive to other people and their energies, I think you'll discover that right now is the perfect time to make conscious choices and decisions. It is very easy to get caught up in the unrest, anger, and fear that is floating around in the air right now and make decisions made on that instead of making them based on how you want your life to unfold.
Try this for a day if you would like to make some new decisions so you'll have new outcomes. Be the witness of your life as you navigate through your day. Notice when you seem to slide into decisions rather then make them consciously. Then ask if the decision is the one you really want to make. If it isn't, make a new one and move on!
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Monday, May 29, 2017
Naked and afraid.
The Discovery Channel has a show called Naked and Afraid. When I first heard about it, I thought "What a stupid idea for a show." But being the open-minded person I am who is also fascinated by the way human beings behave, I decided to take a look and see what I thought about the show.
In the usual version, a man and a woman who don't know each other are taken to a jungle location where they have no clothes, no food, no water - nothing but a map to show where the rivers and lakes are and each gets to bring one survival item. Usually someone brings a machete or flint. They have to live there for 21 days to complete the mission. Usually they co-exist with critters such as alligators, piranha, big cats, wild pigs, and spiders, snakes, mosquitos, ants - without weapons to defend themselves, bug spray, or anti-itch lotions!
There are other versions of the show where groups of six or more people go out in the same way and live in the jungle for 40 days. No food, no water, no clothes - 40 days. They have to rely on each other and their own skills. Most of them are survivalists of one kind or another and some have been in Iraq or Afghanistan and have experience surviving in harsh conditions.
Here is what I find fascinating about the show. Here these folks are living at the basest levels possible. They have to scrounge for shelter, food, water, warmth, even staying dry in massive rainstorms. Wouldn't you think they would be able to put their egos aside and work as teams, support one another in order to survive?
To be fair, there are those who do exactly that. They put aside whatever differences they might have and work as a team. They come out the other side of the experience stronger and wiser. However, there are others who can't do that. They have to have things on their own terms even if it means no one eats or has water. There are those who dig in their heels and refuse to try to find food unless it is done their way. They refuse to try to find a water source unless their partner will do it their way. It is truly fascinating to watch. There are major lessons in self-sabotage.
And I realize this is exactly what's happening in Washington and the Republican party right now. They are all emotionally naked and afraid and refusing to put their egos aside to work for the common good so everyone can eat, drink, be warm, and survive the elements and wild animals. And I realize if people can't do it in the Amazon, what makes me think they will do it in Washington.
Maybe we should take the lot of them out in the wilderness, take away their clothes, give them a map, a machete, some flint and tell them to figure out how to survive. We'll be back for them in 21 days and see who makes it. Now that's a show I would watch. Pass the popcorn.
In the usual version, a man and a woman who don't know each other are taken to a jungle location where they have no clothes, no food, no water - nothing but a map to show where the rivers and lakes are and each gets to bring one survival item. Usually someone brings a machete or flint. They have to live there for 21 days to complete the mission. Usually they co-exist with critters such as alligators, piranha, big cats, wild pigs, and spiders, snakes, mosquitos, ants - without weapons to defend themselves, bug spray, or anti-itch lotions!
There are other versions of the show where groups of six or more people go out in the same way and live in the jungle for 40 days. No food, no water, no clothes - 40 days. They have to rely on each other and their own skills. Most of them are survivalists of one kind or another and some have been in Iraq or Afghanistan and have experience surviving in harsh conditions.
Here is what I find fascinating about the show. Here these folks are living at the basest levels possible. They have to scrounge for shelter, food, water, warmth, even staying dry in massive rainstorms. Wouldn't you think they would be able to put their egos aside and work as teams, support one another in order to survive?
To be fair, there are those who do exactly that. They put aside whatever differences they might have and work as a team. They come out the other side of the experience stronger and wiser. However, there are others who can't do that. They have to have things on their own terms even if it means no one eats or has water. There are those who dig in their heels and refuse to try to find food unless it is done their way. They refuse to try to find a water source unless their partner will do it their way. It is truly fascinating to watch. There are major lessons in self-sabotage.
And I realize this is exactly what's happening in Washington and the Republican party right now. They are all emotionally naked and afraid and refusing to put their egos aside to work for the common good so everyone can eat, drink, be warm, and survive the elements and wild animals. And I realize if people can't do it in the Amazon, what makes me think they will do it in Washington.
Maybe we should take the lot of them out in the wilderness, take away their clothes, give them a map, a machete, some flint and tell them to figure out how to survive. We'll be back for them in 21 days and see who makes it. Now that's a show I would watch. Pass the popcorn.
Sunday, May 28, 2017
I can. I must. I will.
These words come from the famous 20th century Master Paramhansa Yogananda - I can't remember where he wrote or said them - but I use them frequently when I have to do something I find difficult. Ever since I fell in 2011, walking has been difficult for me - I know: imagine a simple thing like walking being difficult! Then add my recent heart/breathing issues to that and you have somewhat of a mess!
Sometimes, it is really difficult as I navigate my way through daily life and I use this mantra to encourage myself and to state my intentions. I can. I must. I will.
I offer this to you today. If there is an area in your life that is challenging right now, you can use these three phrases to clearly state that you are not a victim to your circumstances. Does this mean things will magically turn around for you? Maybe. Maybe not. That doesn't matter. What does matter is how you face daily life and navigate the terrain your soul and Higher Power/God/Universe has set for you.
On a lighter note....I crochet and recently decided I want to learn to knit. I bought a class through Craftsy.com and watched the first two lessons yesterday. I was able to do the first part called casting on. But when it came to the second step I simply can't get it. I even watched a You Tube video and it is like a tongue twister for me.
Today I am using this to get past the first stage of learning to knit: I can. I must. I will. If it works in big things then certainly it can work in little ones!
Sometimes, it is really difficult as I navigate my way through daily life and I use this mantra to encourage myself and to state my intentions. I can. I must. I will.
I offer this to you today. If there is an area in your life that is challenging right now, you can use these three phrases to clearly state that you are not a victim to your circumstances. Does this mean things will magically turn around for you? Maybe. Maybe not. That doesn't matter. What does matter is how you face daily life and navigate the terrain your soul and Higher Power/God/Universe has set for you.
On a lighter note....I crochet and recently decided I want to learn to knit. I bought a class through Craftsy.com and watched the first two lessons yesterday. I was able to do the first part called casting on. But when it came to the second step I simply can't get it. I even watched a You Tube video and it is like a tongue twister for me.
Today I am using this to get past the first stage of learning to knit: I can. I must. I will. If it works in big things then certainly it can work in little ones!
Saturday, May 27, 2017
Remember the Devil!
When I do a tarot consultation with someone, I always pull a card before the session, before I know what issue the person wants to discuss. It always fascinates me when the meaning of that card is central to the person's issue. At the end of a session, I usually pull one last card that represents some energy this person needs to keep front and center in their mind.
At the end of a session yesterday, the final card I pulled for the person was the Devil card! As with any card is a reading, the Devil card can have multiple and alternative meanings, depending on the person and situation. In this case, I realized this card is for all of us right now, not just my client.
The Devil reminds us that our world is an illusion, a real illusion because we have to navigate it, but still an illusion. Because of this, we need to remember to keep our sense of humor. There is so much going on every day right now, things that can cause us pain and stress, it is easy to forget to keep our sense of humor.
For today, and then every day, let's remember to see the humor in our lives and in the world. Look beneath the surface of life and events to see the essence of what's really going on and then have a good laugh. "He did what?" "They discovered what?"
On a personal level, get into witness consciousness and stand back a bit from what's going on. Let yourself have a chuckle at your own foibles and insecurities. Life is so much easier when we remember to keep our sense of humor. Make today one of some sort of fun and laughter no matter what's going on for you!
Friday, May 26, 2017
Is the pendulum done swinging?
Apparently not.....yet. Now not only do we have a president who physically pushes himself ahead of other countries' leaders and brags about sexually assaulting women, Montana has elected a congressman who (allegedly) physically attacked a reporter. When Steve Miller who is close to the president roared "The Alpha Male is back and in charge, " he meant it. How far will all of this go? How low will it go?
What we are seeing right now is the swing of the pendulum. We live in a world of duality: up/down, sun/moon, male/female, black/white. This will not change. We can look around and see how the pendulum of life swings for each of us personally as well as in the world around us.
The pendulum had swung to the place of honoring many progressive values. Now it has swung the other direction. When this happens in our personal lives, the trick is to grab the pendulum when it is in the center and balance it there - or to remain balanced even while we watch the pendulum swing in our lives.
This needs to happen on the world level as well. The point will come where the pendulum goes as far as it can in the direction of the Alpha Males and it will start to go in the other direction again. The trick is going to be getting it to balance somewhere in the middle so we can stop the drastic swinging in either direction. The other trick is going to be not letting these Alpha Males do so much damage to the environment and society that it takes the next five or six generations to straighten it all out - assuming the planet remains habitable when they are through with it.
What we are seeing right now is the swing of the pendulum. We live in a world of duality: up/down, sun/moon, male/female, black/white. This will not change. We can look around and see how the pendulum of life swings for each of us personally as well as in the world around us.
The pendulum had swung to the place of honoring many progressive values. Now it has swung the other direction. When this happens in our personal lives, the trick is to grab the pendulum when it is in the center and balance it there - or to remain balanced even while we watch the pendulum swing in our lives.
This needs to happen on the world level as well. The point will come where the pendulum goes as far as it can in the direction of the Alpha Males and it will start to go in the other direction again. The trick is going to be getting it to balance somewhere in the middle so we can stop the drastic swinging in either direction. The other trick is going to be not letting these Alpha Males do so much damage to the environment and society that it takes the next five or six generations to straighten it all out - assuming the planet remains habitable when they are through with it.
Thursday, May 25, 2017
Journalists are not the enemy
There's been a concerted effort to defame "the media" in this country and this should cause all of us to be concerned and to take action. Journalists are our friends, not our enemies. Are there dishonest journalists? Of course there are, just like there are dishonest lawyers, contractors, teachers, and physicians. No group of people is without their bad apples. In general, however, most people in the media are honest, hardworking, brave souls who want to keep us, the public, informed.
Yesterday, a GOP candidate in Montana "body slammed" a reporter who was doing his job. The politician then released a false statement describing the events in the exact opposite terms than how they occurred. Fortunately, there were witnesses and misdemeanor charges have been filed against the politician. The election is being held today and I hope the citizens of Montana step up and make the statement that they will not tolerate violence in their political leaders.
We need journalists who will ask the tough questions, who will speak up, who will do the investigative background work so we can be given the truth about things that are hidden. To do their jobs, journalists cannot be shy, retiring souls afraid to speak up. It used to be that journalists overseas were in the greatest physical danger. Now, it is getting to be dangerous to be a journalist in this country.
I have a friend who still owns and operates print newspapers, something it is getting more and more difficult to do. He told me he is amazed how he is still approached by young people fresh out of college who want to work for him, who want to be journalists and reporters. He says he asks them, "Are you sure this is what you want? You know, it is getting to be a tough job to do and to find consistent work." "Yes," they assure him. They say they want to inform the public, tell the stories, do the challlenging background work that has to be done. Some even offer to work unpaid just to gain valuable experience.
Journalists go where you and I cannot go. Journalists can ask questions, dig around in records we can't see or access, and they can confront political and business leaders who need confronting on our behalf. We need to support them and the media outlets for whom they work. As for the politicians who don't want journalists or the media poking around in their affairs, I ask this: what are you trying to hide?
Yesterday, a GOP candidate in Montana "body slammed" a reporter who was doing his job. The politician then released a false statement describing the events in the exact opposite terms than how they occurred. Fortunately, there were witnesses and misdemeanor charges have been filed against the politician. The election is being held today and I hope the citizens of Montana step up and make the statement that they will not tolerate violence in their political leaders.
We need journalists who will ask the tough questions, who will speak up, who will do the investigative background work so we can be given the truth about things that are hidden. To do their jobs, journalists cannot be shy, retiring souls afraid to speak up. It used to be that journalists overseas were in the greatest physical danger. Now, it is getting to be dangerous to be a journalist in this country.
I have a friend who still owns and operates print newspapers, something it is getting more and more difficult to do. He told me he is amazed how he is still approached by young people fresh out of college who want to work for him, who want to be journalists and reporters. He says he asks them, "Are you sure this is what you want? You know, it is getting to be a tough job to do and to find consistent work." "Yes," they assure him. They say they want to inform the public, tell the stories, do the challlenging background work that has to be done. Some even offer to work unpaid just to gain valuable experience.
Journalists go where you and I cannot go. Journalists can ask questions, dig around in records we can't see or access, and they can confront political and business leaders who need confronting on our behalf. We need to support them and the media outlets for whom they work. As for the politicians who don't want journalists or the media poking around in their affairs, I ask this: what are you trying to hide?
Wednesday, May 24, 2017
Terror abroad and terror at home
There are different kinds of terror. We just witnessed one kind in Manchester when people who simply went to a concert are now dead or injured due to a terrorist attack. My heart goes out to the family and friends of the victims and to anyone who witnessed the horror.
After this happened, I saw news accounts of the budget being proposed by the person and political party who are supposed to be leading our country. I thought to myself, "This is a different sort of terrorist attack." This budget, as I understand it, is taking away billions of dollars that can help the less fortunate and poor among us. It removes some of the safety nets our society put into place to help people. Although this certainly is not a bomb and won't cause immediate loss of life, it is a different sort of attack and will cause a different sort of loss of life.
A simplistic understanding of part of this budget is that by taking away benefits people who aren't working will be forced to work. Here's the irony. For those who are not scamming the system, which I believe is most of the people receiving benefits, they are being told this. Go get a job and we'll give you benefits. If these people had jobs or could hold jobs, they wouldn't need the benefits! Crazy is as crazy does. Why not spend some of our nation's wealth on job creation so these folks can work and not need social assistance. Yes, I know. "They" say that is the reason to give the tax breaks to the wealthiest among us - so they can create the jobs. History has shown it doesn't work out that way.
Hopefully, there are enough good folks in the House and Senate to put an end to this foolishness. Yes, let's try to be sure people are not abusing the system; but, let's not punish those who need the help. I have a friend who operates a food bank and he has seen first-hand how some families have made taking handouts the way they live. Instead of withholding food from them, he has made it his mission to help them get out of the family cycle they are in so they don't need the food bank. Truthfully, I believe this is what most people want - to live a free and honorable life where they have good jobs and can be participants in an honest and caring society.
We all need to focus on getting people into political office who will work for the people and not for themselves. It is not too soon to start. 2018 is just around the corner. Please don't say there aren't any good people to vote for so you will sit this out and wait for your ideal candidate to show up. That didn't turn out so good the last time people tried that approach. Many times life doesn't hand us our ideal choices. Sometimes we just have to make the best one we can.
What will you do to change this terrorist story that is developing in our own country?
After this happened, I saw news accounts of the budget being proposed by the person and political party who are supposed to be leading our country. I thought to myself, "This is a different sort of terrorist attack." This budget, as I understand it, is taking away billions of dollars that can help the less fortunate and poor among us. It removes some of the safety nets our society put into place to help people. Although this certainly is not a bomb and won't cause immediate loss of life, it is a different sort of attack and will cause a different sort of loss of life.
A simplistic understanding of part of this budget is that by taking away benefits people who aren't working will be forced to work. Here's the irony. For those who are not scamming the system, which I believe is most of the people receiving benefits, they are being told this. Go get a job and we'll give you benefits. If these people had jobs or could hold jobs, they wouldn't need the benefits! Crazy is as crazy does. Why not spend some of our nation's wealth on job creation so these folks can work and not need social assistance. Yes, I know. "They" say that is the reason to give the tax breaks to the wealthiest among us - so they can create the jobs. History has shown it doesn't work out that way.
Hopefully, there are enough good folks in the House and Senate to put an end to this foolishness. Yes, let's try to be sure people are not abusing the system; but, let's not punish those who need the help. I have a friend who operates a food bank and he has seen first-hand how some families have made taking handouts the way they live. Instead of withholding food from them, he has made it his mission to help them get out of the family cycle they are in so they don't need the food bank. Truthfully, I believe this is what most people want - to live a free and honorable life where they have good jobs and can be participants in an honest and caring society.
We all need to focus on getting people into political office who will work for the people and not for themselves. It is not too soon to start. 2018 is just around the corner. Please don't say there aren't any good people to vote for so you will sit this out and wait for your ideal candidate to show up. That didn't turn out so good the last time people tried that approach. Many times life doesn't hand us our ideal choices. Sometimes we just have to make the best one we can.
What will you do to change this terrorist story that is developing in our own country?
Tuesday, May 23, 2017
A Moment of Silence for Manchester
Let's request healing and comforting angels for everyone affected by the attack in Manchester yesterday. Amen.
Monday, May 22, 2017
Trust
Last week I mentioned I was reading a book called Everyday Holiness. It's a book that explains the Jewish spiritual tradition of Mussar. You don't have to be Jewish to practice Mussar. In a nutshell, you choose 13 traits you want to embody such as trust, compassion, loving-kindness, etc...and then work on these a week at a time for a year. Mussar doesn't have to interfere with any other practices you might already have and actually complements them.
I decided to have a Mussar practice for the next year and chose as my first trait trust! If you have attended the Superconscious Living course I and others have taught at Ananda, you'll recognize this. It is accepting what comes as coming from God and handling it with as much grace as possible. It's knowing that Divine Mother is holding you even when it feels you've been abandoned. It's focusing on doing God's will whatever that might be.
I need more trust right now. It's easy to be trusting and accepting when things go our way. It is much more challenging to trust when things seem wonky and out-of-balance! Various issues have been placed on my plate right now. It is my job to trust the process and also to trust myself and my inner guidance. I'm looking forward to seeing how this quality of trust deepens over the next seven days.
I decided to have a Mussar practice for the next year and chose as my first trait trust! If you have attended the Superconscious Living course I and others have taught at Ananda, you'll recognize this. It is accepting what comes as coming from God and handling it with as much grace as possible. It's knowing that Divine Mother is holding you even when it feels you've been abandoned. It's focusing on doing God's will whatever that might be.
I need more trust right now. It's easy to be trusting and accepting when things go our way. It is much more challenging to trust when things seem wonky and out-of-balance! Various issues have been placed on my plate right now. It is my job to trust the process and also to trust myself and my inner guidance. I'm looking forward to seeing how this quality of trust deepens over the next seven days.
Sunday, May 21, 2017
I told myself today is the day
When I got up awhile ago and looked outside, I saw it is going to be a gorgeous day in the Pacific Northwest. You know, it's going to be one of those days we don't tell out-of-towners about because we don't want more people knowing it doesn't rain here all the time!
Almost right away, I started feeling sorry for myself. I was remembering the days when I didn't have shortness of breath, my heart worked fine, and I was able to go on eight-mile hikes. I'm doing all the things the doctors tell me to do. I am working with healers. I have tons of people praying for me and most days are the same - no major improvement. Yes, there are days better than others but I haven't had the magical, sudden, healing anyone like me wants to have.
Before I slid into despair, I caught myself and said: "Today is the day I am going to make major improvement." I told my body to get with the program, that I had many things I still want and need to do and in order to do them, I need my health back.
Then I did a thing we should never do. I played the what if game. What if I never get better? What if this is my new normal? What if all the king's horses and all the king's men can't put Krysta back together again? Have you ever felt that way? It's a terrible way to feel and a terrible game to play.
I turned it around, of course. What if I do get better - and soon? What if all of this is just more fodder for my life and writing? What if going through this allows me to be more compassionate with others and more helpful to people going through tough times? That's the what if game I want to play!
Tomorrow, I'm recording a Keeping It Real TV program with Roman Krznaric who lives in England. He wrote a new book called "Carpe Diem - Seizing the Day in a Distracted World." Part of today will be spending time with his book. It's really good and I think just what the doctor ordered for me - in one place Roman talks about plucking the day rather than seizing it. I like the gentleness of that! I'm going to seize my day gently and see what happens!
Almost right away, I started feeling sorry for myself. I was remembering the days when I didn't have shortness of breath, my heart worked fine, and I was able to go on eight-mile hikes. I'm doing all the things the doctors tell me to do. I am working with healers. I have tons of people praying for me and most days are the same - no major improvement. Yes, there are days better than others but I haven't had the magical, sudden, healing anyone like me wants to have.
Before I slid into despair, I caught myself and said: "Today is the day I am going to make major improvement." I told my body to get with the program, that I had many things I still want and need to do and in order to do them, I need my health back.
Then I did a thing we should never do. I played the what if game. What if I never get better? What if this is my new normal? What if all the king's horses and all the king's men can't put Krysta back together again? Have you ever felt that way? It's a terrible way to feel and a terrible game to play.
I turned it around, of course. What if I do get better - and soon? What if all of this is just more fodder for my life and writing? What if going through this allows me to be more compassionate with others and more helpful to people going through tough times? That's the what if game I want to play!
Tomorrow, I'm recording a Keeping It Real TV program with Roman Krznaric who lives in England. He wrote a new book called "Carpe Diem - Seizing the Day in a Distracted World." Part of today will be spending time with his book. It's really good and I think just what the doctor ordered for me - in one place Roman talks about plucking the day rather than seizing it. I like the gentleness of that! I'm going to seize my day gently and see what happens!
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Solfeggio Frequencies
The last time I led the meditation at Unity of Everett, I played Solfeggio Frequencies, particular frequencies that are used in Gregorian chants. It is said that the different frequencies can be used for various effects such as healing ancestral issues, relationships, health and so on.
The reason I am bringing this up is because most of the people there didn't know about these frequencies and were quite affected by them. I thought you might like to know as well. There are various versions available. Some are just the frequencies as tones. I find those boring to listen to very long and prefer ones that have a musical score.
Well-known musician and sound healer Steve Halpern uses these frequencies in some of his work and you can also find them from a company called Source Vibrations (I love their volumes one and two) and another company called Whole Tones. There are also companies who embed the frequencies in crystals and jewlery (you can learn to do this yourself). Use your search engine to find articles that explain this in greater detail and go to iTunes where you can find several albums.
I listen to the tones almost daily and love writing to them as well as simply using them for meditation. A big believer in the power of sound and music, I find the Solfeggio Frequencies to be comforting, inspiring, and healing. Maybe you will, too!
The reason I am bringing this up is because most of the people there didn't know about these frequencies and were quite affected by them. I thought you might like to know as well. There are various versions available. Some are just the frequencies as tones. I find those boring to listen to very long and prefer ones that have a musical score.
Well-known musician and sound healer Steve Halpern uses these frequencies in some of his work and you can also find them from a company called Source Vibrations (I love their volumes one and two) and another company called Whole Tones. There are also companies who embed the frequencies in crystals and jewlery (you can learn to do this yourself). Use your search engine to find articles that explain this in greater detail and go to iTunes where you can find several albums.
I listen to the tones almost daily and love writing to them as well as simply using them for meditation. A big believer in the power of sound and music, I find the Solfeggio Frequencies to be comforting, inspiring, and healing. Maybe you will, too!
Friday, May 19, 2017
Ouch!!
The other day I received a totally unexpected email from someone who had looked at my new book listing on Amazon for The Book of Hope. It came out in paperback a month or so ago and we just got it up on Amazon as a Kindle book. The email was critical of some of my editing in the book, the lack of testimonials in the front of the book, and the fact that the two formats were not yet linked at Amazon. Oh, and that I haven't yet created my author's central page.
When I was through reading the email, I said to myself, "Ouch. That hurt." Unsolicited criticism is one of the worst things to receive. When you ask for someone to review your work and give feedback, you're expecting to hear about the good and the bad. Emotionally, you're ready for it. When it comes unsolicited, you don't have time to protect yourself.
And, yes, I know, in some way I attracted this to myself or it woldn't have happened. There's some sort of mirror here. However, as my first metaphysical teacher used to say, "Everyone gets the results of what they send out, just be sure you're not the one wielding the knife."
I've heard doctors say they bury their mistakes. I always say we writers and publishers publish ours for the world to see. This isn't true of all types of work. For instance, let's say you're a massage therapist. The quality of your work is pretty much seen only by the recipients of your massages and anyone they care to share the experience with. What if the results of your massages were written up and published for everyone to see? That could be positive or not depending on how others view your massage techniques.
I guess what I'm trying to say is be kind to those of us whose work is in the public eye. We're doing the best we can and it isn't perfect. A friend of mine has a saying she uses to keep herself from being perfectionist in her work: Good enough is good enough. This doesn't keep her from striving to improve what she does. It does keep her from beating herself up when her work isn't perfect by some sort of standard she might not even accept.
Yes, I will be less critical of myself so those mirrors can go away. In the meantime, check yourself before offering unsolicited criticism of someone's efforts. Did the person ask for your critique? Are they in a position to be receptive to your opinions? Are you an expert in what you're criticizing? Do you really want to hurt their feelings? I don't think so. Maybe there is wisdom in keeping your opinions private unless you're asked to share them?
When I was through reading the email, I said to myself, "Ouch. That hurt." Unsolicited criticism is one of the worst things to receive. When you ask for someone to review your work and give feedback, you're expecting to hear about the good and the bad. Emotionally, you're ready for it. When it comes unsolicited, you don't have time to protect yourself.
And, yes, I know, in some way I attracted this to myself or it woldn't have happened. There's some sort of mirror here. However, as my first metaphysical teacher used to say, "Everyone gets the results of what they send out, just be sure you're not the one wielding the knife."
I've heard doctors say they bury their mistakes. I always say we writers and publishers publish ours for the world to see. This isn't true of all types of work. For instance, let's say you're a massage therapist. The quality of your work is pretty much seen only by the recipients of your massages and anyone they care to share the experience with. What if the results of your massages were written up and published for everyone to see? That could be positive or not depending on how others view your massage techniques.
I guess what I'm trying to say is be kind to those of us whose work is in the public eye. We're doing the best we can and it isn't perfect. A friend of mine has a saying she uses to keep herself from being perfectionist in her work: Good enough is good enough. This doesn't keep her from striving to improve what she does. It does keep her from beating herself up when her work isn't perfect by some sort of standard she might not even accept.
Yes, I will be less critical of myself so those mirrors can go away. In the meantime, check yourself before offering unsolicited criticism of someone's efforts. Did the person ask for your critique? Are they in a position to be receptive to your opinions? Are you an expert in what you're criticizing? Do you really want to hurt their feelings? I don't think so. Maybe there is wisdom in keeping your opinions private unless you're asked to share them?
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Letting go versus allowing
Yesterday, I shared with someone that I had gotten the inner message I need to "let go." She shared that the word she uses is "allow." I remembered that in my first book "Comments on Leading the Spiritual Life," I had an entire chapter on the idea of allowing. (This book is now out of print and I am getting ready to publish a new edition in the next few months.)
For me, the difference is this. With letting go, there is the sense of releasing something, especially from the past - just let it all go. With allowing, there is more of a sense of letting things be as they are without feeling the need to meddle, knowing that the Universe is in charge - not me. It is a subtle difference.
How does this translate to one's daily life or to a healing journey such as I am on right now? Yes, on an ongoing basis, just let go of what has happened whether in the recent or far past. Then on a daily basis, just allow the Universe to work its magic in whatever way that might show itself. Allow people to be who they are. Allow situations to be what they are.
No, this doesn't turn us into passive people who refuse to interact with our lives. It means the interactions can come from a place of strength of cooperation with the Universe rather than from the place of trying to control it. We still have our plans and go about our days with a sense of purpose. But we do this with an open hand rather than one that is tightly wrapped around the concept that things have to go our way.
Especially right now when it seems so much is outside our control in the world, this is a time to learn to allow the Universe to do what It needs to do to move us forward, do the things we're inspired to do, so we can become the soul-directed humans we are meant to be.
For me, the difference is this. With letting go, there is the sense of releasing something, especially from the past - just let it all go. With allowing, there is more of a sense of letting things be as they are without feeling the need to meddle, knowing that the Universe is in charge - not me. It is a subtle difference.
How does this translate to one's daily life or to a healing journey such as I am on right now? Yes, on an ongoing basis, just let go of what has happened whether in the recent or far past. Then on a daily basis, just allow the Universe to work its magic in whatever way that might show itself. Allow people to be who they are. Allow situations to be what they are.
No, this doesn't turn us into passive people who refuse to interact with our lives. It means the interactions can come from a place of strength of cooperation with the Universe rather than from the place of trying to control it. We still have our plans and go about our days with a sense of purpose. But we do this with an open hand rather than one that is tightly wrapped around the concept that things have to go our way.
Especially right now when it seems so much is outside our control in the world, this is a time to learn to allow the Universe to do what It needs to do to move us forward, do the things we're inspired to do, so we can become the soul-directed humans we are meant to be.
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
Now what do we do?
Just when we think things can't get any worse, they do. Now the leader of our country gives away classified information to a country that is not our friend and possibly endangered one of our allies in the process. People are freaking out wondering how bad this whole thing will get before the powers who can act will act. Me, too.
Then this morning as I was reading a book called "Everyday Holiness" by Alan Morinis, I read about the quality of equanimity. "Everyday Holiness" was gifted to me by a dear friend who is Jewish and who frequently talks to me about her practice of Mussar. In a very small nutshell, Mussar is a "...spiritual perspective and also a discipline of transformative practices.....a way of life." The book outlines traits a person strives to embody. I haven't finished the book and don't yet know the entire Mussar practice, but I am reading about these traits and today's was equanimity.
As I read, I realized this is a trait I and many others have talked and written about and it is one I need right now more than ever - and so does everyone else! Equanimity is the ability to see, hear, and experience whatever is going on in your life or in the world without losing your internal balance. It's realizing that everything that happens in your life is part of your spiritual process.
As individuals and as a nation, we are facing some upsetting times and situations. It would be easy to fall into feelings of helplessness and despair. That is not what we are called to do. Whatever issues we're facing in our lives - and this includes what's happening on the world stage - we are meant to discover how this fits in with our spiritual process and embrace it.
This isn't an easy thing to do on a personal level and it is certainly challenging in the big picture as well. And it is what we are being asked to do for our own spiritual growth. The author Alan Morinis talks about being able to distance ourselves from what's going on, engaging our inner witness, while always focusing on the "light."
He says, "An inner eye connected to the constant light won't give you a life of fewer challenges and struggles, but it will give you equanimity that will serve you as you engage with these challenges. It's hard to imagine another inner state that you would want to bring to the trials that come your way, to better help you triumph." Amen to that.
Then this morning as I was reading a book called "Everyday Holiness" by Alan Morinis, I read about the quality of equanimity. "Everyday Holiness" was gifted to me by a dear friend who is Jewish and who frequently talks to me about her practice of Mussar. In a very small nutshell, Mussar is a "...spiritual perspective and also a discipline of transformative practices.....a way of life." The book outlines traits a person strives to embody. I haven't finished the book and don't yet know the entire Mussar practice, but I am reading about these traits and today's was equanimity.
As I read, I realized this is a trait I and many others have talked and written about and it is one I need right now more than ever - and so does everyone else! Equanimity is the ability to see, hear, and experience whatever is going on in your life or in the world without losing your internal balance. It's realizing that everything that happens in your life is part of your spiritual process.
As individuals and as a nation, we are facing some upsetting times and situations. It would be easy to fall into feelings of helplessness and despair. That is not what we are called to do. Whatever issues we're facing in our lives - and this includes what's happening on the world stage - we are meant to discover how this fits in with our spiritual process and embrace it.
This isn't an easy thing to do on a personal level and it is certainly challenging in the big picture as well. And it is what we are being asked to do for our own spiritual growth. The author Alan Morinis talks about being able to distance ourselves from what's going on, engaging our inner witness, while always focusing on the "light."
He says, "An inner eye connected to the constant light won't give you a life of fewer challenges and struggles, but it will give you equanimity that will serve you as you engage with these challenges. It's hard to imagine another inner state that you would want to bring to the trials that come your way, to better help you triumph." Amen to that.
Monday, May 15, 2017
The confusion about money
There's a lot of confusion in our society about money and a person's worth or value. There's an attitude that the more money a person has, the more value they have intrinsically. Unfortunately, this attitude causes a lot of trouble on various levels.
We all have different talents and abilities. In this society, we value some talents and abilities more than we do others. For instance, for some reason I cannot understand, our culture values professional football players more than it does teachers of our children. We show that by paying football players an insane amount of money for what they do. Teachers generally make only an average wage.
What happens is people start to believe that the amount of money one earns or has equals that person's value as a human being. The truth is we are all equal as human beings. The family into which we're born, our various life experiences, innate talents, education, and motivations determine how much money we earn through our work. The mistake comes when we say someone is worth more as a human being because he or she makes or has more money than someone else.
This underlies a lot of today's problems. It is seen that some people should have more rights, more services, more good things than others. Some of those who have a lot look down on those who don't have much. Those who currently have need to remember how quickly it can all be lost. And those who have a lot need to remember they will be held accountable for how they use what they have.
I admire and respect people who have used their talents and abilities to make a lot of money. I also respect and admire people who live their lives in integrity giving of their talents and abilities, but don't make a lot of money. Everyone has value no matter how much or how little money they have or make.
Everyone deserves the same respect and opportunities no matter how much or how little money they have or earn. Capitalism is great but without compassion it doesn't work. Our leaders would do well to understand this sooner rather than later.
We all have different talents and abilities. In this society, we value some talents and abilities more than we do others. For instance, for some reason I cannot understand, our culture values professional football players more than it does teachers of our children. We show that by paying football players an insane amount of money for what they do. Teachers generally make only an average wage.
What happens is people start to believe that the amount of money one earns or has equals that person's value as a human being. The truth is we are all equal as human beings. The family into which we're born, our various life experiences, innate talents, education, and motivations determine how much money we earn through our work. The mistake comes when we say someone is worth more as a human being because he or she makes or has more money than someone else.
This underlies a lot of today's problems. It is seen that some people should have more rights, more services, more good things than others. Some of those who have a lot look down on those who don't have much. Those who currently have need to remember how quickly it can all be lost. And those who have a lot need to remember they will be held accountable for how they use what they have.
I admire and respect people who have used their talents and abilities to make a lot of money. I also respect and admire people who live their lives in integrity giving of their talents and abilities, but don't make a lot of money. Everyone has value no matter how much or how little money they have or make.
Everyone deserves the same respect and opportunities no matter how much or how little money they have or earn. Capitalism is great but without compassion it doesn't work. Our leaders would do well to understand this sooner rather than later.
Sunday, May 14, 2017
But what if you're not a mother?
Most people assume that if you are female, you are a mother. Truth is, there are manny of us who never had human children for one reason or another. Some women couldn't have children even though they desperately wanted to do so and, for whatever reason, weren't able to adopt. Other women make a conscious decision not to have children.
No matter the reason, it's important for those of us who are not mothers to human children - and, yes that includes me - to realize that being a mother does not automatically make someone a better person. It is okay not to be a mother. And in some cases, the world is better served by our not being parents.
Not all mothers are saints. Not all mothers have adoring children. Some mothers are alienated from the children they loved and raised as best they could. I have known some mothers who would abort retroactively if that were possible.
Having said all of that, what's also true is we can embody the best qualities of motherhood just as men can. We can mother ourselves and lost souls who are alienated from their own mothers. We can mother fur-feather-fin-scale children who need us. We can mother situations, businesses, crafts, and homes. And, most important of all, we can be earth mothers to the planet.
So, whether or not you have human children, it really is okay to celebrate Mother's Day. If a total stranger says Happy Mother's Day to you today, instead of saying you're not a mother, just smile and say thank you!
No matter the reason, it's important for those of us who are not mothers to human children - and, yes that includes me - to realize that being a mother does not automatically make someone a better person. It is okay not to be a mother. And in some cases, the world is better served by our not being parents.
Not all mothers are saints. Not all mothers have adoring children. Some mothers are alienated from the children they loved and raised as best they could. I have known some mothers who would abort retroactively if that were possible.
Having said all of that, what's also true is we can embody the best qualities of motherhood just as men can. We can mother ourselves and lost souls who are alienated from their own mothers. We can mother fur-feather-fin-scale children who need us. We can mother situations, businesses, crafts, and homes. And, most important of all, we can be earth mothers to the planet.
So, whether or not you have human children, it really is okay to celebrate Mother's Day. If a total stranger says Happy Mother's Day to you today, instead of saying you're not a mother, just smile and say thank you!
Saturday, May 13, 2017
What if he wants to be fired?
An interesting thought visited me this morning. What if the man who is president wants to be fired? What if he is intentionally doing and saying things that he knows - at least subconsciously - will get him thrown out of office? My first response is no way - his ego wouldn't allow that. Then I remember some of the things he said.
He misses his old life. The job is harder than he thought it would be. He keeps spending as much time at his own properties as he can, places where he's comfortable and in charge. What would be the payoff for him?
First, massive attention from the entire world. He thrives on being the center of attention and this would make the whole world watch him more intensely than ever. Second, he would get to return to his old life and blame others for his being ousted because, as we know, he never does anything wrong. Others are always at fault and never him.
Third, he gets to keep the results of all the business deals made while he was in office with many more to follow once he is out of office.
Fourth, he gets to bask in the knowledge he obtained while in office, knowledge of people and events that can only help him back in the real world.
Some might say he would never do this because of the embarrassment it would cause. This man doesn't know embarrassed. Most people feel bad when they have to file bankruptcy - this man files bankruptcy and never bats an eye.
Lastly, he would get to keep his fan base because they would sympathize with him about his being treated unfairly which is, of course, the way he would play this. As he said long ago: he could walk out in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot someone and his people would still love him. He can do no wrong in their books. Unfortunately, it seems the entire Republican Party feels that way as well.
It's the rest of us who are watchhing this in stunned silence not believing our own eyes. As I said the other day, this is a living, breathing, political thriller. Pass the popcorn.
Friday, May 12, 2017
A psychic told him he was going to die and he did.
During the AIDS epidemic in the 1980's, I had a friend who had AIDS. A well-known psychic was coming to town and my friend told me he was going to see her so he could find out if he would be healed of this disease or not. I cautioned him that this might not be a good idea but he did it anyway.
After seeing this psychic, he called me because he was in the hospital again. He was desperate because she had told him he would not recover, that he was going to die from AIDS soon. I felt helpless because there was nothing I could do or say to erase what she had told him. I suggested he try to pray and meditate, to let go of what she had told him and allow the Universe to work for him.
He died a few days later.
The reason this is coming up for me right now is that although I was certainly doing the best I could for him, I now realize how difficult it was for him to hear me and how difficult it was for him to pray or meditate. I now feel this was an empty thing to have said to him. I know he knew I cared for him and I know this was of some comfort to him.
When my doctor told me I had AFib, he said to me, "You can't meditate this away and if you find yourself having difficulty meditating right now, this is the reason why."
I am sharing this for two reasons. First, if you are psychic, never tell someone when you think they are going to die - even if you believe you're right. No psychic is 100% right and once you put this into someone's mind, they will have a very difficult time letting it go. I see this as malpractice of the worst kind.
Second, if you know someone who is dealing with some sort of health issue, it is okay to suggest they pray or meditate but realize that this could be very difficult for them to do. Instead, why not suggest you will pray or meditate on their behalf and allow them to sink into the healing energies that will most support them.
This is probably the most supportive and loving thing you could do for another person. Prayers and blessings for others are very real energies. Let's share that with the people in our lives who need our support.
After seeing this psychic, he called me because he was in the hospital again. He was desperate because she had told him he would not recover, that he was going to die from AIDS soon. I felt helpless because there was nothing I could do or say to erase what she had told him. I suggested he try to pray and meditate, to let go of what she had told him and allow the Universe to work for him.
He died a few days later.
The reason this is coming up for me right now is that although I was certainly doing the best I could for him, I now realize how difficult it was for him to hear me and how difficult it was for him to pray or meditate. I now feel this was an empty thing to have said to him. I know he knew I cared for him and I know this was of some comfort to him.
When my doctor told me I had AFib, he said to me, "You can't meditate this away and if you find yourself having difficulty meditating right now, this is the reason why."
I am sharing this for two reasons. First, if you are psychic, never tell someone when you think they are going to die - even if you believe you're right. No psychic is 100% right and once you put this into someone's mind, they will have a very difficult time letting it go. I see this as malpractice of the worst kind.
Second, if you know someone who is dealing with some sort of health issue, it is okay to suggest they pray or meditate but realize that this could be very difficult for them to do. Instead, why not suggest you will pray or meditate on their behalf and allow them to sink into the healing energies that will most support them.
This is probably the most supportive and loving thing you could do for another person. Prayers and blessings for others are very real energies. Let's share that with the people in our lives who need our support.
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
We're living in a political thriller
Because I am a book reviewer as well as a spiritual student, I read a lot of uplifting and inspirational books. One of the ways I stay grounded is that I usually have some sort of mystery book or thriller that I am reading. Right now, I don't think I need such as book. All I need to do is read the newspapers! We are in the midst of one of the most interesting political thrillers of all times.
What makes for a great thriller is the sense of suspense, the not-knowing what the main characters will do. Our current president fills the bill and more some, doesn't he? What goes on in his mind? How much of what he does is truly calculated and how much flows from some sort of character disorder? Is he mentally unstable or wily like a fox? And who is going to be the hero of this story?
Who is going to have the political courage to stand up to him and to the ruling party and say enough is enough? And while all of this plays out, there's us little people living our daily lives against this backdrop of mystery and intrigue. How will all of this affect us? How will this affect upcoming legislation, healthcare, immigration and the myriad of other issues facing our country? Will the president involve us in some sort of terrible war just to get the attention off of all of this?
I don't have those answers. Like you, I get up every day to live my life to the fullest in as much integrity and love as possible. I wish those folks in Washington would do the same, don't you?
What makes for a great thriller is the sense of suspense, the not-knowing what the main characters will do. Our current president fills the bill and more some, doesn't he? What goes on in his mind? How much of what he does is truly calculated and how much flows from some sort of character disorder? Is he mentally unstable or wily like a fox? And who is going to be the hero of this story?
Who is going to have the political courage to stand up to him and to the ruling party and say enough is enough? And while all of this plays out, there's us little people living our daily lives against this backdrop of mystery and intrigue. How will all of this affect us? How will this affect upcoming legislation, healthcare, immigration and the myriad of other issues facing our country? Will the president involve us in some sort of terrible war just to get the attention off of all of this?
I don't have those answers. Like you, I get up every day to live my life to the fullest in as much integrity and love as possible. I wish those folks in Washington would do the same, don't you?
Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Life is a mystery
There's a great article in the Washington Post this morning. It's about Homo naledi, a new species of human cousin found in South Africa two years ago. Scientists have never seen anything like this and it means a re-thinking of the origins of humanity and who else was wandering the forests in our early years.
The article says: "This is a humbling discovery for science," said Lee Berger, a paleoanthropoloigst at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. "It's reminding us that the fossil record can hide things...we can never assume that what we have tells the whole story."
Indeed! How often have you been so sure you were right about something? That you totally understood an issue or another person in your life? And how often have you made decisions based on your belief that you're right? Many times, I am sure.
How about changing that. How about living life from the perspective of, "Yes, I know such and such, and as far as I know, this is correct. But, I realize I might not have all the facts. I realize I might be partially blinded by what I think is true. So, I will keep an open mind. I will remain aware and alert to new information, new findings. And if I am made aware of something new, I will change my position to reflect the new information."
What a refreshing way to live. Always open and aware and alert to the mystery that life is. Just for today, why not live in this state of life's mystery and see what new ideas, concepts, people, and situations come your way?
I think I will share this with a larger audience and make this my Wednesday Inspiration for tomorrow! And I am going to watch for the unfolding of mysteries in my world today!
Oh, and the mini-course is done and you can view it here:
http://newspiritjournalonline.com/a-mini-course-in-how-to-access-and-use-inner-guidance/
The article says: "This is a humbling discovery for science," said Lee Berger, a paleoanthropoloigst at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. "It's reminding us that the fossil record can hide things...we can never assume that what we have tells the whole story."
Indeed! How often have you been so sure you were right about something? That you totally understood an issue or another person in your life? And how often have you made decisions based on your belief that you're right? Many times, I am sure.
How about changing that. How about living life from the perspective of, "Yes, I know such and such, and as far as I know, this is correct. But, I realize I might not have all the facts. I realize I might be partially blinded by what I think is true. So, I will keep an open mind. I will remain aware and alert to new information, new findings. And if I am made aware of something new, I will change my position to reflect the new information."
What a refreshing way to live. Always open and aware and alert to the mystery that life is. Just for today, why not live in this state of life's mystery and see what new ideas, concepts, people, and situations come your way?
I think I will share this with a larger audience and make this my Wednesday Inspiration for tomorrow! And I am going to watch for the unfolding of mysteries in my world today!
Oh, and the mini-course is done and you can view it here:
http://newspiritjournalonline.com/a-mini-course-in-how-to-access-and-use-inner-guidance/
Monday, May 8, 2017
Inner guidance is important
Today I am recording my Keeping It Real TV show to post at NewSpiritJournal.com. Instead of interviewing someone, I am giving a mini-class in how to follow your inner guidance. Of all the questions clients ask, this is one of the most frequent; so, I figured a little class would be helpful to those who aren't sure what inner guidance is or how to access it.
I made a conscious effort to learn how to do this about 33 years ago. I had always been in touch with "gut feelings" which I think is true of most people. But then I learned how to be in more frequent contact with guidance - at will - and how to trust it.
During this current healthcare journey, I'm using guidance a lot. I have read certain books, done practices, contacted certain people, avoided others - all based on my inner guidance. Is it always 100% correct? Of course not - nothing is 100%. But I have to say after all these years, it comes pretty darn close.
This class should be posted by Wednesday or so in case you want to watch it. I'll let you know when it is online. Oh, and I did spend a lot of yesterday crocheting and my afghan is almost done - maybe just a few hours to go and I'll be able to snuggle up under it and bask in the knowledge that this is something I did for myself - stitch by loving stitch. Just like my scarves are called Aum scarves, this afghan is an Aum afghan because I said an Aum with every stitch! It feels truly magnificent!
Have a great Monday - I know I will!
I made a conscious effort to learn how to do this about 33 years ago. I had always been in touch with "gut feelings" which I think is true of most people. But then I learned how to be in more frequent contact with guidance - at will - and how to trust it.
During this current healthcare journey, I'm using guidance a lot. I have read certain books, done practices, contacted certain people, avoided others - all based on my inner guidance. Is it always 100% correct? Of course not - nothing is 100%. But I have to say after all these years, it comes pretty darn close.
This class should be posted by Wednesday or so in case you want to watch it. I'll let you know when it is online. Oh, and I did spend a lot of yesterday crocheting and my afghan is almost done - maybe just a few hours to go and I'll be able to snuggle up under it and bask in the knowledge that this is something I did for myself - stitch by loving stitch. Just like my scarves are called Aum scarves, this afghan is an Aum afghan because I said an Aum with every stitch! It feels truly magnificent!
Have a great Monday - I know I will!
Sunday, May 7, 2017
These books could help you, too!
As a professional book reviewer, I am honored to receive many new books on a regular basis. This actually becomes overwhelming sometimes because there are more books than I can possibly review. Most of the books are worthy of review. Sometimes, in my opinion, the author should have waited a bit before releasing the book because it needs some more depth and polish. I don't give bad reviews. I just don't review those and, instead, focus on better books I think people want to know about.
My mother was a schoolteacher and taught me to read and love books at a young age. Going to the library where I could choose books I wanted to read was a treat. Although I don't live near any bookstores right now (sadly, I might add), spending several hours just browsing in a bookstore is one of my favorite ways to spend time. Having written several books myself, I know what authors pour into their books - heart, soul, and lifetimes.
I have my stable of books that I read over and over, books such as "Whispers From Eternity" and "Metaphysical Meditations" by Paramhansa Yogananda and "This Thing Called You" by Ernest Holmes. Right now because of my health journey, there are three books I am working with - notice I didn't say reading. I've read them more than once and now I am in the phase of actually putting them into practice in my life.
By Dr. Joyce Whitely Hawkes there is "Cell-Level Healing, the Bridge From Soul to Cell" and "Resonance, Nine Practices for Harmonious Health and Vitality" - two outstanding books that offer an understanding of healing at the cellular level and which offer practical ideas to use. And "How to Heal Yourself When No One Else Can" by Amy Scher helps you design your own healing path and offers a multitude of great ideas and practices to use.
Ultimately, of course, all healing is self-healing even when we have the support of medical professionals or alternative healers. We not only have to be open to our own healing, we have to be willing to walk the path in front of us even when we would rather just sit on the curb and cry. I have both days. Some when I feel very brave and ready to tackle my situation with gusto and enthusiasm and those when I would much rather just curl into a ball and snuggle with the Corgis all day.
Today is Sunday and I am going to give all of this a rest. Hey, if God rested on the seventh day why can't I? Maybe I'll crochet all day - I still haven't finished a large granny square afghan I started last month. If I don't get on it soon, the weather will be too warm to enjoy it! Whatever day you're reading this, give yourself the day off if you can. Rest, recuperate, play - whatever you're facing in your life will be there tomorrow. Deal with it then. That's what I'm going to do - join me!
My mother was a schoolteacher and taught me to read and love books at a young age. Going to the library where I could choose books I wanted to read was a treat. Although I don't live near any bookstores right now (sadly, I might add), spending several hours just browsing in a bookstore is one of my favorite ways to spend time. Having written several books myself, I know what authors pour into their books - heart, soul, and lifetimes.
I have my stable of books that I read over and over, books such as "Whispers From Eternity" and "Metaphysical Meditations" by Paramhansa Yogananda and "This Thing Called You" by Ernest Holmes. Right now because of my health journey, there are three books I am working with - notice I didn't say reading. I've read them more than once and now I am in the phase of actually putting them into practice in my life.
By Dr. Joyce Whitely Hawkes there is "Cell-Level Healing, the Bridge From Soul to Cell" and "Resonance, Nine Practices for Harmonious Health and Vitality" - two outstanding books that offer an understanding of healing at the cellular level and which offer practical ideas to use. And "How to Heal Yourself When No One Else Can" by Amy Scher helps you design your own healing path and offers a multitude of great ideas and practices to use.
Ultimately, of course, all healing is self-healing even when we have the support of medical professionals or alternative healers. We not only have to be open to our own healing, we have to be willing to walk the path in front of us even when we would rather just sit on the curb and cry. I have both days. Some when I feel very brave and ready to tackle my situation with gusto and enthusiasm and those when I would much rather just curl into a ball and snuggle with the Corgis all day.
Today is Sunday and I am going to give all of this a rest. Hey, if God rested on the seventh day why can't I? Maybe I'll crochet all day - I still haven't finished a large granny square afghan I started last month. If I don't get on it soon, the weather will be too warm to enjoy it! Whatever day you're reading this, give yourself the day off if you can. Rest, recuperate, play - whatever you're facing in your life will be there tomorrow. Deal with it then. That's what I'm going to do - join me!
Saturday, May 6, 2017
A not-so-subtle assault
Along with many of you, I am still processing this whole not-healthcare debacle. Something said by many people is this. If you are a woman, elderly, or have health issues, this most recent republican bill will hurt you. Okay. In my book, that is everybody and here's why.
If you are not a woman, you have women in your life whom you love - sisters, mother, aunts, wives, friends, co-workers. If you are not yet elderly, you probably hope to become so someday because the alternative is an early death. You probably have elderly people in your life whom you love: grandparents, parents, friends, aunt, uncles, etc....
And if you don't currently have health issues, I certainly hope you never have any. However, the statistics are not in your favor no matter how healthily you eat, drink, and live. Age has its way with most people and that could include you or others you love.
In other words the not-so-subtle assault on women, the elderly and the sick is an assault on YOU! Along with many of you, this whole thing feels so unbelievable - could this really be happening? Will the whole thing be thrown out by the Senate? Will enough people step forward to squash the whole thing?
I don't know. What I do know is it is up to each of us to take what actions we can to be sure those in power know how we feel and what we want to see happen. If we don't do that and this whole thing moves forward, we can only look in the mirror and ask why we didn't do more.
Okay, off the soapbox for today. I needed to get that off my chest. Tomorrow, I'll tell you about some of the great books I've been working with during my healing journey.
If you are not a woman, you have women in your life whom you love - sisters, mother, aunts, wives, friends, co-workers. If you are not yet elderly, you probably hope to become so someday because the alternative is an early death. You probably have elderly people in your life whom you love: grandparents, parents, friends, aunt, uncles, etc....
And if you don't currently have health issues, I certainly hope you never have any. However, the statistics are not in your favor no matter how healthily you eat, drink, and live. Age has its way with most people and that could include you or others you love.
In other words the not-so-subtle assault on women, the elderly and the sick is an assault on YOU! Along with many of you, this whole thing feels so unbelievable - could this really be happening? Will the whole thing be thrown out by the Senate? Will enough people step forward to squash the whole thing?
I don't know. What I do know is it is up to each of us to take what actions we can to be sure those in power know how we feel and what we want to see happen. If we don't do that and this whole thing moves forward, we can only look in the mirror and ask why we didn't do more.
Okay, off the soapbox for today. I needed to get that off my chest. Tomorrow, I'll tell you about some of the great books I've been working with during my healing journey.
Friday, May 5, 2017
The not-healthcare mess
This whole healthcare situation has really gotten me upset of late and I won't try to go into it all of it here. One of the statements made by a lawmaker recently is particularly vile. Lightly paraphrasing, he said that good people don't get sick. People who lead good lives and do the right thing don't need as much health care and so shouldn't have to pay into the system as much as the people who lead bad (his words, not mine) lives and don't do the things they should do.
That would mean that Jimmy Kimmel's little newborn baby who had a heart condition at birth didn't lead a good life, didn't do the right things. Or was it his mother or father who did bad things that caused the heart condition?
And who knows what the "right" things are to do? We're constantly being told one thing is good and another thing isn't and then having the information reversed a week later! I have known many people who do all the right things for their health who get cancer or some other disease and who need healthcare. The health of our bodies should not be a moralistic issue.
I am reminded of a woman who had cancer and came to one of my classes. She had led the "good life" as far as eating and drinking and exercising, still came down with cancer, and now some metaphysical types were telling her she had the cancer because of her thinking. The young woman was in tears feeling guilty, afraid, and lost and wanting to know what to do.
Life is more complicated than we would like to admit. I told the young woman that I didn't know why she was sick and I certainly didn't have the answer for her. But what I did know and shared with her is that she had no reason to feel guilty about her illness - that would only make her sicker. I told her maybe the reason she was sick was to teach the people in her life how to be more compassionate.
And that is where I end up with this whole not-healthcare mess. I ask this question: As a people, as a nation, have we lost our compassion for one another? Have we fallen into such a we-versus-them mind-set that we are willing to let people get sick and die rather than provide a proper healthcare safety net? Are we willing to put money ahead of people and their wellbeing?
Some of the folks who voted for this not-healthcare bill admit they didn't even read it before voting. One representative from South Carolina said he tried to read it but it was so complicated he doubted others would read it either. Plus, he said, that's why they have staff. His staff had read and vetted it for him! Could you do that at your job? Could you be in the position of enacting some sort of company-wide policy and not even knowing what it was before taking action? I think someone needs to lose his job over that decision.
What's happening in our country right now is way beyond politics. We are being asked to take the temperature of our soul as a nation. I fear we do indeed have a illness. I hope our insurance policy covers our care or will it be deemed a pre-existing condition?
That would mean that Jimmy Kimmel's little newborn baby who had a heart condition at birth didn't lead a good life, didn't do the right things. Or was it his mother or father who did bad things that caused the heart condition?
And who knows what the "right" things are to do? We're constantly being told one thing is good and another thing isn't and then having the information reversed a week later! I have known many people who do all the right things for their health who get cancer or some other disease and who need healthcare. The health of our bodies should not be a moralistic issue.
I am reminded of a woman who had cancer and came to one of my classes. She had led the "good life" as far as eating and drinking and exercising, still came down with cancer, and now some metaphysical types were telling her she had the cancer because of her thinking. The young woman was in tears feeling guilty, afraid, and lost and wanting to know what to do.
Life is more complicated than we would like to admit. I told the young woman that I didn't know why she was sick and I certainly didn't have the answer for her. But what I did know and shared with her is that she had no reason to feel guilty about her illness - that would only make her sicker. I told her maybe the reason she was sick was to teach the people in her life how to be more compassionate.
And that is where I end up with this whole not-healthcare mess. I ask this question: As a people, as a nation, have we lost our compassion for one another? Have we fallen into such a we-versus-them mind-set that we are willing to let people get sick and die rather than provide a proper healthcare safety net? Are we willing to put money ahead of people and their wellbeing?
Some of the folks who voted for this not-healthcare bill admit they didn't even read it before voting. One representative from South Carolina said he tried to read it but it was so complicated he doubted others would read it either. Plus, he said, that's why they have staff. His staff had read and vetted it for him! Could you do that at your job? Could you be in the position of enacting some sort of company-wide policy and not even knowing what it was before taking action? I think someone needs to lose his job over that decision.
What's happening in our country right now is way beyond politics. We are being asked to take the temperature of our soul as a nation. I fear we do indeed have a illness. I hope our insurance policy covers our care or will it be deemed a pre-existing condition?
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
I got a message at McDonald's
I love McDonald's. Not for their food, although their salads are pretty good. No, I love them because they provide "facilities" that are easily available! On the way to the cardiologist's office yesterday, I was in need. We almost stopped at a different location but ended up at McDonald's.
I saw something bright and colorful when I walked into the stall. Imagine my surprise when I saw this card:
I love when the Universe gives me a message without my even asking. It had been a more difficult morning for me and getting this uplifting message was quite the boost. Author and teacher Robert Moss has written an entire book about letting the world be your oracle, about being aware so you see the messages life/God/the Universe is trying to give you. Although I do see signs and symbols everywhere, it isn't often that I get something this obvious stated so directly to me, in actual words on a colorful sign. Even if you think such things are figments of a person's imagination, I think you have to admit this was pretty impressive - especially when the name of my most recent book is Anything is Possible!
The visit went great. The doctor is very happy with my progress. And, once again, I am reminded that life is an amazing mystery filled with wonderful surprises if only we remain open to looking! Pay attention - you never know what message might be trying to find you!
I saw something bright and colorful when I walked into the stall. Imagine my surprise when I saw this card:
I love when the Universe gives me a message without my even asking. It had been a more difficult morning for me and getting this uplifting message was quite the boost. Author and teacher Robert Moss has written an entire book about letting the world be your oracle, about being aware so you see the messages life/God/the Universe is trying to give you. Although I do see signs and symbols everywhere, it isn't often that I get something this obvious stated so directly to me, in actual words on a colorful sign. Even if you think such things are figments of a person's imagination, I think you have to admit this was pretty impressive - especially when the name of my most recent book is Anything is Possible!
The visit went great. The doctor is very happy with my progress. And, once again, I am reminded that life is an amazing mystery filled with wonderful surprises if only we remain open to looking! Pay attention - you never know what message might be trying to find you!
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Off to the cardiologist today!
It's been a week since I saw my cardiologist and the last time we had some great humor. (You can find that post below if you're interested.) It'll be fun to see what happens today. As far as I can tell, everything is going well but who knows what she will think! This heart business is certainly an up and down process. As the song goes, "Some days you're the windshield and some days you're the bug."
I found myself doing something yesterday that I need to stop doing. I put another person's "emergency" ahead of my own scheduled work and because of that I am now a day behind my schedule. This comes from the old Catholic background, I think, where we're taught to suffer and put ourselves last.
There's a fine line, don't you think, between being responsible and responsive and giving to others and always putting ourselves last. I'll be thinking and acting on this today and see what happens! I thought I had gotten pretty good about this but perhaps not...growth happens in spirals. We get to visit the same issues many times in different ways until we "get it!" It's long past time I get this one!
I found myself doing something yesterday that I need to stop doing. I put another person's "emergency" ahead of my own scheduled work and because of that I am now a day behind my schedule. This comes from the old Catholic background, I think, where we're taught to suffer and put ourselves last.
There's a fine line, don't you think, between being responsible and responsive and giving to others and always putting ourselves last. I'll be thinking and acting on this today and see what happens! I thought I had gotten pretty good about this but perhaps not...growth happens in spirals. We get to visit the same issues many times in different ways until we "get it!" It's long past time I get this one!
Monday, May 1, 2017
If you're slow, you're slow!
One of the books I have been re-reading recently is Still Here by Ram Dass. He wrote it in the 1990's after his stroke and it is full of wisdom about healing and aging and death. One of the things he wrote about is how as we get older, we tend to slow down. We walk and move more slowly, he says. And for him, after his stroke, he had to relearn walking and talking and just about everything!
Here's what he suggests and this applies to anyone who is experiencing some sort of physical challenge, not just older adults! Instead of fighting what's happening to you, focus on it. If you tend to walk more slowly, then focus on the joy of walking more slowly and pay attention to your surroundings. Experience what it's like to move slowly and savor it.
This is another version of accepting what is and living from that place of acceptance. There isn't a soul on this planet who can't benefit from this teaching! Practicing it leads to great peace and wisdom.
After not doing my Keeping It Real TV show for the last month, I did two today and they should be posted tomorrow or Wednesday. One is with Janet Conner about living our soul's purpose and the other is Mark Dodich's May astrological weather report! I think you'll enjoy both of them!
Here's what he suggests and this applies to anyone who is experiencing some sort of physical challenge, not just older adults! Instead of fighting what's happening to you, focus on it. If you tend to walk more slowly, then focus on the joy of walking more slowly and pay attention to your surroundings. Experience what it's like to move slowly and savor it.
This is another version of accepting what is and living from that place of acceptance. There isn't a soul on this planet who can't benefit from this teaching! Practicing it leads to great peace and wisdom.
After not doing my Keeping It Real TV show for the last month, I did two today and they should be posted tomorrow or Wednesday. One is with Janet Conner about living our soul's purpose and the other is Mark Dodich's May astrological weather report! I think you'll enjoy both of them!
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