Just For Fun ... And Have a Cup on Me!

Maybe kissing is sort of like nature's coffee.

~Scott Westerfeld

A few weeks ago when I was traveling, I stopped at a Starbucks, ordered my usual— light roast, half-calf with cream. I was also a little hungry so I added a muffin. I forget now which kind ...

When I arrived at my destination, I sat down to eat it. Little did I know then how the wrapper the muffin came in would become fun food for thought. 

As I munched, I spied these words on the wrapper:

Starbucks coffee

Flavors my senses

Sweetens my disposition

Stirs my imagination

Nourishes my dreams

I thought to myself, Really, it does? Starbucks coffee can do all that? Hmmm ... 

Then my thoughts began to do their usually wondering. Here's what came next:

Well, perhaps coffee can do that. 

I do get pretty happy after my coffee. But Starbucks? 

I'm not sure. It's a little bitter for me. 

Plus, I really prefer organic. Better for my body, better for the world. 

But I do really really really love coffee.

I am pretty sure I have an addiction to coffee.

In fact, I know I do because it's just about the first thing I think of in the morning. 

Can't wait to get to it. 

So maybe Starbucks is right.

Coffee does  flavor and sweeten my attitude.

It does jumpstart my thoughts and imagination. 

Nourishes my dreams? More hmmm .... Not quite sure about that one. 

And then I had one of those light bulb moments. You know the kind. When all of a sudden the world makes complete sense?

What really DOES flavor, sweeten, stir, and nourish me?

So I proceeded to take out the phrase, "Starbucks coffee," and substitute a word that spoke to my heart, like:

"Spirit"

"Friends"

"Nature ... "

Now the creative thoughts were really rolling in and I had a lot of fun trying out different words with the four Starbucks phrases. Here's my favorite:

Love flavors my senses

Love sweetens my disposition

Love stirs my imagination

Love nourishes my dreams ....

And on I went.

Wanna give it a try?

Pick a word and put it into the Starbucks formula and notice how it makes you feel.

Post it here and I'll randomly pick one and gift that lucky person with a Starbucks gift card! Let's play!

∞ ∞ ∞ ∞ ∞

And if you want a feel good VIDEO to jumpstart YOUR day, here is my current favorite. 

The sound of RAIN created by a human orchestra. Simply amazing! Click here. 

And be sure to turn the volume up to High. 

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And Then There Were Angels ...

Only the love-based higher self within each of us

is able to communicate with the Divine.

~Doreen Virtue, Ph.D.

It was just one of those mornings. I know you've had these yourself—when you can't seem to pull yourself out of a dark hole, no matter how hard you try.

Last evening I received some sad news about a dear loved one and his health. Despite taking all my own good advice (see Monday's post on Evening Detox), I slept poorly, and woke up feeling even worse.

Listening to my inner guidance system, I attempted to discern what morning choices I could make for myself to lift my mood. Nothing resonated, except coming here to blog land. Perhaps that would cheer me. I checked for new posts on friend's blogs and landed on dear Diantha's. It did resonate, so I took her sage advice and headed for the porch. Perhaps I would find my own rabbit or, better yet, one would find me.

But I never made it to the porch. A little voice urged me to the closet to get my angel cards: "Healing with the Angels" by Doreen Virtue. A treasure awaited within, I was sure.

If you have read my book, Your Truest Self, you already know that Doreen is one of the 12 Holy Women featured there. I'd spoken with her a few times over the years (once for the purpose of a magazine interview) and I always resonated with her wisdom. In the book, she represents the Seventh Transformational Truth, "I Know Divine Assistance is Available to Me at All Times."

So, I prepared a little breakfast and gathered up my things, including the angel cards, to head out to the porch and spend some nice uplifting time with myself—and to look for that rabbit—or receive a message from the angels. But, somehow, I got sidetracked and ended up back at my computer.

I remembered that Tabitha had posted her new podcast and was featuring my Evening Detox routine. I decided to listen, right then and there.

Well, if you have ever heard Tabitha's voice, it is the voice of an angel. Just listening to it eased my angst and lifted my spirits. And I also shed a few tears of gratitude ...

And then the angels really came to call.

Tabitha began speaking of an organization named "Chemo Angels." I was so touched by what she said that, after the podcast, I went right to their website. I read all about this wonderful program that pairs chemo patients with people who love to write letters and send little gifts to inspire them and give them courage. That's me to a T! Amidst the flutter of angel wings, I applied. I hope they accept me as a volunteer because I can't wait to get started.

In fact, I was so excited that I printed off a number of pages from their website to send to my 80-year-old mother on being a "Senior Angel," because she loves writing letters as much as I do. And because my dad, her beloved partner of over 50 years, died 7 years ago of cancer. Perhaps in his memory, she and I can volunteer together.

As you might guess, by now my spirits were lifted to the heavens. I was so thankful that the angels paid me a visit through Tabitha and Chemo Angels. Just to be sure (not that I doubted this angelic message), I finally sat down to draw an Angel Card. Guess which one turned up?

FRIENDSHIP.

This is what it said: "Know that God and the angels watch over you and your friends. They will lovingly help all of you during these transitions. This card signifies that you are ready to receive new friendships with people who mirror your interests and ambitions."

Amazing!

Right now, I am sitting in awe and appreciation at how life works ... of how divinely cared for we are. All we need do is ask, and it shall be given. I am grateful for the angelic gift of friendship.

I'd love to hear about your relationship with the angels, if you have one ...

~~~o~~~

Speaking of friendship, on Wednesday, July 29, I'll be on the radio with another new friend. Will you join me there?

I'll be chatting with Amy Jewell, CirklaGirl, about what it means to live as your whole and holy self. It's an open call, so you can actually dial in and ask a question or make a comment.

We can really talk, hear each other's voices, and share our hearts.

How fun is that!

7:00 - 7:30 p.m. Central time.

Call-in Number: (718) 508-9274. Call in a few minutes early.

Website / Show Page: click here.

If you can't join us "live," no worries. The show will be archived and accessible online. 

Thank you, Amy, for providing this great opportunity for all of us to connect!

~~~~~

(Angel image courtesy of the movie, "Angels in America," by Tony Kushner.)

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Meditation Monday

On this Meditation Monday, I invite you take a "Peaceful Pause": a time to put your mind at ease, breathe, and remember your divine connection. 

Usually I offer a written meditation, but today is different. I have an audio recording for you. In May, I was a "guest expert" at Jennifer Louden's Comfort Cafe. We spoke about techniques to calm and center us, especially focusing on the breath as a sacred conduit to the Divine. 

Spontaneously, she invited me to lead the Cafe members in a guided meditation. Here it is

 for your enjoyment. Click here and I will guide you through a Peaceful Pause. 

May you believe, breathe, and be well today. May we all ... 

~~~~~ 

(Note: The first few minutes of the mp3 are of Jen and I talking about the breath. Halfway through, the meditation begins. The recording is 15 minutes in length; the meditation is 5 minutes long. 

Photo image courtesy of http://wallpapers.rwx.dk)

~~0~~

Would you like to put the Etsy World Peace Prayer Team to work today? 

A few weeks ago, Ms. HealingStones at Stoneweaver invited us to give peace a chance by stopping what we are doing to offer a prayer for world peace. 

"We have complete and total faith that the universe 

is showering the Earth in Peace."

She is part of the Etsy World Peace Prayer Team, and when they receive a 'prayer request' a group of artists on Etsy offer up a peace prayer for 20 cents. 

The 20 cents covers the cost of listing the prayer. No profit is made. 

When someone purchases a prayer, sellers normally send out a pdf photo or something else in return. But more importantly, a message goes out to everyone in the team and they stop what we they doing and say this simple prayer. 

I loved this concept so much I immediately "signed up" on Etsy, donated a few cents, and received some lovely gifts from these artists in exchange, including: a lampwork dove bead from Rosebud and a photo of a laughing Dalai Lama from Ms. HealingStones herself. There are other gifts too, especially photos. 

Click here to learn more about how you can put the Prayer Team to work today. And don't forget to offer up a few prayers of your own!

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A Latte Serenity and More

An untrained mind can accomplish nothing.

~ A Course in Miracles

How healthy and fit is your mind?

Join me for a latte and a lively discussion on the topic. Learn how you can shift the timbre and tone of your day with a
30-Minute Wake-Up Call.

Today I am guest blogging at The Bold Life with host, Tess Marshall. Come on over!

Make a comment there and you will be entered into a drawing to win a copy of my new book, Your Truest Self! Let's have a whole latte fun!

When you're done over there, stop back here and read Part II of my post:

The 30-Minute Evening Detox

In terms of mind fitness, our evening routine is equally important.

The 30 minutes before sleep is vital to our health and well-being, and sets the tone for our rest and dreaming patterns. Researchers have shown that the stimuli we experience right before sleep can be repeated five to seven times per night in our dreams. If we desire restful sleep, we should choose pre-bedtime activities that do not over-stimulate or create tension within us.

I suggest a 30 minute detox routine. One-half hour before bed (60 minutes is even better), begin a “winding down” process. Slow your physical pace, bathe or shower. Listen to music or read something relaxing or inspirational. In short, try to end your day as peaceful as you begin it.

Activities to avoid before bed would be watching the news, reading the newspaper, or watching a violent or agitating movie or television show. These can cause your mind to switch into “active” mode, creating sleep disturbances and less-than-restful sleep. Instead, choose those that help your mind to move into “relax” mode. My personal favorite is taking a bath. Give me a tub filled with steaming, scented water and no interruptions, and I am one happy woman, well on her way to dreamland.

For many women, the pre-bedtime routine is often spent in busyness, scrambling to get last minute things done. We are still doing laundry, packing lunches, picking up the house, or paying bills late into the night. We slide into bed, our mind racing with thoughts of unfinished tasks. Sleep doesn’t come easily and we may feel exhausted upon waking. No surprise, as we have not given our mind the opportunity it needs to slow down and “detox,” to let go of the day. 30 minutes in the evening can give your body and mind what it needs to feel balanced and relaxed. And, in the long run, that means better overall health.

In summary ...

Even though we may have busy schedules or children to attend to—morning and evening—I firmly believe we can still make choices to begin and end our day in a more peaceful manner: one which enables us to have "fit" versus "fitful" minds. You are the only one who can set priorities and reclaim your time as your own. If you want to have a healthy mind, you will have to choose the thoughts and experiences that go into it to make it so. The old adage you’ve heard bandied about really is true. “Change your mind and you can change your life.”

Here’s to healthy choices for that wonderful mind of yours!

As always, I welcome your thoughts ...

~~~~~

(Image courtesy of recipepub.com)

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Blessed

Just as a blind man might find a jewel amongst heaps of rubbish, so this Spirit of Awakening has somehow arisen in me ... 

It is the supreme medicine that alleviates the illness of the world. It is the tree of rest for beings exhausted from wandering on the pathways of mundane existence. 

It is the universal bridge for all travelers on their crossing over ..." 

~ Shantideva

As I was running around town today doing my errands, I found myself stopped behind a car with an intriguing license plate. "BLSSD" it said.

My first thought was that it was an acronym for "BLESSED." Well, at least that was my hope.

I spent a few minutes wondering what the owner's life must be like that he or she felt so blessed to have a license plate which announced their joy to the world. What was going right in their life? What victories? What abundance?

And then I found myself pondering upon my own.

You see, tomorrow (Thursday) is my birthday, and each year when it comes around I take stock of the blessings I've experienced.

This year I feel especially blessed. Here's why:

~My husband and I continue to live in Love and Joy in our nest on the Bay. (He also has a new job for which we are most grateful when so many have lost theirs.)

~ We received the gift of a new grandbaby, our first boy.

~My book was published and I had a blast doing a book tour, seeing old friends and making new ones.

~My oldest daughter (a former Marine who served in Iraq) is recovering nicely from PTSD, so well, in fact, that she's gone back to school, holds down a great job, and is buying her first house—all by herself.

~My mother is alive and well and celebrating 80 years on this earth.

~My youngest daughter went off to college and the nest was empty (and I loved every moment of it.)

~ My health is better than it has ever been.

~ I have two dear loved ones who continue to embrace sobriety and work their recovery programs well.

~ I started this blog and much to my surprise found my life enriched by the presence of soulful new friends, some of whom, I suspect, will be lifelong friends.

~ The Muse continues to speak with me and I am working on a new book. ~ I have finally found the place of Stillness within me.

~ Perhaps the highlight of my year was spending 5 days receiving teachings from His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

This happened exactly one year ago this week and I've been reflecting on it more than ever. The ramifications and blessings continue to unfold. I live in amazement. And, synchronistically, it was on my 55th birthday that HH invited us to walk the Bodhisattva path with him:


"May I be a protector for those who are without protectors, a guide for travelers, and a boat, a bridge, and a ship for those who wish to cross over.

May I be a lamp for those who seek light, a bed for those seek rest, and may I be a servant for all beings who desire a servant.

To all sentient beings may I be a wish-fulfilling gem, a vase of good fortune, an efficacious mantra, a great medication, a wish-fulfilling tree, and wish-granting cow ...

So may I be in various ways a source of life for the sentient beings present throughout space until they all are liberated."*

I accepted ... and have never looked back. I thank God for my life. What a remarkable journey this has been!

And all this pondering while sitting at a traffic light looking at "BLSSD."

As the signal changed and I drove a bit further, staying close behind BLSSD, I had the sudden thought: What if BLSSD wasn't "Blessed" at all?

What if it was "BLISSED." Oh, that would be nice too. To live in Bliss. I hope he is.

Next year, perhaps, I'll take some of that ...

~~0~~

(The above photo is one of my favorites. It portrays a young Tibetan woman making offerings at the Long Life Ceremony honoring His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Madison, WI., July 2008. Photos courtesy of Deer Park Buddhist Center.


* A Guide to the Bodihisattva Way of Life by Shantideva.

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Meditation Monday

"Be Still and Know that I Am God"

When I was in training to become a spiritual director, we often used this passage from Hebrew scripture to quiet us. (Psalm 46:10)

Now I am not one to quote scripture very often, but I am fond of using a mantra, sacred word, or passage from sacred writings of varied religious traditions to focus my busy thoughts and bring myself to stillness. I have found this one in particular to be very effective. What we learned to do with this passage in our training, however, was very special. I'd like to share it with you on this beautiful Meditation Monday.

Here are the instructions:


Begin by taking a few deep breaths to center yourself. Take as many as you need to settle down, to settle in.

Next, say the phrase in its entirety. "Be still and know that I am God."

Let the words soothe you, drop down into you. Really feel the words and their calming effect upon you.

Repeat the phrase again, this time dropping off the last word. "Be still and know that I am."

Continue on in this way, breathing deeply and evenly, as you drop yet one more word from the phrase, until there is only one word left. Go slowly and savor the experience as you come to a place of stillness within you.


"Be still and know."

"Be still."

"Be."


You can also modify the phrase if you wish, changing the word "God" to any virtue of the Spirit.


Peace: "Be still and know that I am Peace."

Love: "Be still and know that I am Love."

Joy: "Be still and know that I am Joy."


Now, does your heart have anything to say?

Today, may you be peaceful and at ease ...

~~~~~

(Image courtesy of www.mywallpapers.eu)

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Every Day New ...

Each and every day can be a new beginning.

The magic of a 24-hour day  lies in the fact

that when it comes to an end, there can be closure.

Conflicts resolved.

Resentments put aside.

Fears surrendered.

With the dawn of a new day

comes the opportunity to begin again. 

Just as the sun rises each day,

creating a unique and breathtaking panorama,

so can we paint a fresh and brilliant day for ourselves.*

 

Do you think you can ... create a brand new day for yourself each and every day? 

I do. 

~~~~~

* Excerpted from Awakening the Spirit Within by Jan (Forrest) Lundy

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Are You Mindful or Mindless in the Kitchen?

I'm traveling for a few days so thought I would post an article that I crafted for one of those "women's magazines." I hope you enjoy it as much as I did writing it! Bon Appetit!

Breathing in, I select,

Breathing out, I slice.

Breathing in, I sautee,

Breathing out, I simmer.

Breathing in, I serve,

Breathing out, I savor.

I’ve not always been a mindful cook. A mindful cook is one who is fully present—living in the moment, here and now, with complete attention. Knowing this, it seems to me that a mindful cook is also one who thoroughly enjoys food preparation. Sadly, this has not been my kitchen experience until recent years.

Depending on what stage of householding I was in, I would say, overall, that I have been a “mind-less” cook, a resentful cook, a “stay out of my kitchen because I really don’t want to be here” cook. Making tasty meals was something my stay-at-home grandmother and my mother did, not me. Not a 21^st century woman trying to balance work, family, and personal needs. Making meals for a hungry family (or guests) felt to me like a burdensome task.

I am happy to announce that all that has changed. What brought about this change? Mid-life mindfulness. Along with a deep desire to enjoy everything about life, not just selected activities.

My journey into living more mindfully began in the early 90s. Due to a health crisis, I was forced to get off the rollercoaster of life, slow my pace down to a crawl, and learn to just “be.” In the transformational year that followed, I embraced mindfulness, living with full and present attention to the moment at hand. Not in the past, caught up in regret. Not in the future, distracted by worry or fear. It was very freeing to begin to live more in the present, with greater joy and appreciation for life as it was.

Cooking, for me, was one of the last frontiers to be conquered with mindfulness. I had fought meal making for so long that it was a relief to finally stop battling it. Despite all my good intentions, buying new cookbooks and watching the Food Channel never did help. “Being” in the kitchen did. In reflecting upon my own journey into mindful cooking, I’ve come up with some guidelines that might help you, too, make the shift, from being a reluctant cook to a relaxed cook. And, perhaps, in time, even a joyful cook.

“Be” the Chef

Mindful cooking is not about getting the meal made so we can get on to more important things. It’s about fully enjoying the process. It’s about taking all the time we need to wash, chop, and prepare a meal in a relaxed fashion.

Plan accordingly, and give yourself plenty of time to just “be the chef.” This is one of the “rules,” if you will, of mindfulness. When you are doing something, just do that one thing. When you are rinsing, rinse. When you are chopping, chop. When you are sautéing, sauté. Do you get the picture? Do one thing at a time, completely focused on that one task and find simple enjoyment in it. Let go of the need to multitask (unlike many of the cooks we see on television). Go slowly, breathe, and smile. Enjoy the journey of preparing.

Turn Your Senses Up to High

Do you remember the movie “Chocolate”? Viane Rocher, played by Juliette Binoche, was the consummate, mindful cook. Just watching her sensually choose the ingredients for her innovate, love-inducing chocolates, tenderly create them, and hand them out to unsuspecting customers was enough to make us salivate with desire and envy.

Have you ever noticed that really good cooks ogle, pinch, sniff, and salivate over the ingredients? They seem to have highly attuned senses. Much of the joy of cooking comes from our ability to savor. Instead of grabbing what works, seek out ingredients that tantalize your senses. This past summer, for me, it was fragrant rosemary and chives cut from my garden; juicy red tomatoes, bright green broccoli, and fresh-picked baby lettuces from our local farmer’s market.

As we become aware of the sensory effect food has upon us, we tend to seek out and use foods that delight and inspire. While you are cooking, as an exercise in mindfulness, turn your senses up to high. Consciously notice the colors, textures, and smells all around you. Ogle, pinch, sniff, and salivate to your heart’s delight!

Make It An Ambient Experience

I discovered, over time, that my dislike of cooking was also related to a dislike of my kitchen. My kitchens have always been small and cramped with very little counter space. In my current home, I don’t have a lot of counter space but what I do have is a large stovetop surface, good lighting, and a beautiful window to look onto my garden. I’ve noticed that when I can gaze out into nature, watch the birds at their feeders, and appreciate the hue of the sky I am one happy chef. I don’t mind chopping or even washing dishes because of the ambience that surrounds me.

If your kitchen is not to your specifications, add elements that soothe you. Burn a fragrant candle, put on your favorite music, wear comfortable clothing, especially shoes for standing. Pamper your self a bit when you’re cooking to more fully enjoy the experience.

Garnish with Love

I’m convinced that any thoughts and feelings, positive or negative, we may hold while cooking not only impact our entire experience, but can affect the food as well. Call me crazy, but food, prepared thoughtfully, with love and care, seems to taste better than food made with upset or in haste. Mindful cooking allows us to be fully awake and aware, relaxed and happy, eager to share the fruits of our labors with others.

The most mindful cooks I know actually infuse the meal with love before serving. Some actually bless the food. Try silently garnishing your food offerings with a hefty dose of love, then notice what happens. I’m willing to bet smiles will abound around your table, accompanied by effusive thanks for a meal well-made—one created mindfully, from the heart.

~~~~~

(Want to learn more about Mindful Cooking? You might enjoy this movie trailer of "How to Cook Your Life," a great little movie featuring Zen Chef Edward Epse Brown.

Photo image courtesy of http://www.healthylivingtip.com)

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Making Your World a Better Place with Tess Marshall

Join me in welcoming a very special guest, Tess Marshall.

Tess is an insightful and light-hearted author— Flying by the Seat of My Soul—and creatrix of the blog "The Bold Life. She is also a life coach with tremendous energy and joie de vivre.

I met her in 2002, if my memory serves me correctly. My husband and I were publishing Healing Garden Journal and she was one of our monthly columnists. Her articles had an energy that were so motivating, so full of enthusiasm, that you knew you could do just about anything with Tess cheering you on. I am so happy to have found her again and delighted to share her with you today. She's speaking with us about how we can make our world a better place. Love it!

Tess also invites you to her website where you can download a FREE copy of her book. I've read it and it's wonderful! Hurry on over to claim yours and get ready to be walloped by her trademark "go-get-'em" energy.

Sit back and enjoy ...

75 Ways to Make Your World a Better Place to Be

by Tess Marshall

It’s easy to fret, worry and obsess over the trouble in the world today. It’s tempting to see the problems outside of ourselves and pass blame and responsibility to others.

It’s wise to realize that all answers come from within and we are 100% responsible for what we experience in our lives and in our world.

We may be angry about war and yet be at war with a neighbor or family member. We may complain about government spending and be in debt ourselves.

Today let’s challenge ourselves to become aware of the complaints, fears, and troubles we project on the world, own them and like Gandhi says, “Be the change we wish to see in the world.” As we heal ourselves we will heal the world.

Begin today with the following steps:

Stop complaining for three weeks. Each time you catch yourself begin your three weeks over. Note what issues come up repeatedly.

Talk to God. Ask for guidance, forgiveness and protection.

Lighten up and laugh. Life is messy; learn to roll with the punches.

Live the next seven days without fear.

Live from your heart.

Fill your heart with love for self and others.

Study a different country, people and culture.

Read, listen and affirm. Read a daily meditation book, listen to uplifting stories, and affirm life is good.

Live life with joy and enthusiasm.

Connect with nature. What did Walt Whitman mean when he said, “With every leaf a miracle…?"

Spend time with children and greet the world with wide-eyed wonder.

Learn something new.

Eliminate the words hate, can’t, won’t.

Volunteer. Get outside of yourself. You are part of God’s healing plan and your participation is needed.

Keep a journal. Write down the details of a good day.

Focus on peace and your world will become peaceful.

Identify role models for strength and inspiration.

Acknowledge your wonderful blessings.

Become grateful for the less obvious.

Practice tithing. You can’t out give God.

Send a check to your favorite charity.

Work in a soup kitchen.

Do one brave act today. Do it with love and for a good purpose.

Give. Share your talents with someone today.

Create your “self love” story. Expand your love to others.

Forgive someone today.

Think, speak and act in a loving manner.

Quiet your mind with silence and meditation.

Be your own best friend.

Write yourself a letter of gratitude.

Praise others.

Say “I love you” to 5 people daily.

Discover beauty everywhere: in color, movement, music, words, sounds, textures and fragrances.

Make magic out the ordinary.

Create a ritual of daily quiet time and introspection.

Take responsibility for your self care.

Express your gratitude to difficult people.

Donate your time to a good cause.

Leave a generous tip.

Go the extra mile.

Respect and visit older adults.

Recycle.

Grow your own food.

Surprise someone.

Set personal boundaries.

Exercise and eat healthy.

Fast from the news and other negative media.

Donate everything you don’t use.

Live simply.

Learn Haiku.

Know your neighbors.

Become a mentor or tutor.

Adopt an animal.

Smile.

Dream big.

Create and hold a vision for our world.

Choose happiness.

Practice deep breathing.

Contribute.

Refuse to give up.

Give yourself permission to relax.

Commit to change.

Heal your relationships.

Accept diverse people.

Use your talents and resources.

Join a support group.

Become a peaceful presence.

Value your life and yourself.

Enjoy your present possessions.

Continue to move forward.

Act on your ideas.

Radiate a spirit of love.

See the bigger picture.

Expect a miracle.

See the world as you wish it to be.

Pass it forward.

~~~~~0~~~~~

Thank you, Tess. Isn't this an amazing list, y'all? If we engaged in even a small percentage of these acts, our lives would hold a whole new vigor.

What do YOU think? Tess and I would love to hear your thoughts ...

What is your heart saying right now?

~~~~~

Tess Marshall has a masters degree in counseling psychology, is an author and currently works as a life coach. You can visit her blog at www.TheBoldLife.com where you can purchase her book, “Flying by the Seat of My Soul.”

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Calling Michigan Women!

Let nothing upset you,
Let nothing frighten you.
Everything is changing.
God alone is changeless.
~ Teresa of Avila

Please join me for a very special evening of connection, reflection, and insight ...

Wednesday, July 15, 

6:30-9:30 p.m., Grand Rapids, MI

"Are You a Woman of Courage?"

Is it possible to live with fearlessness in challenging times? The saints and women mystics of the past say it is, especially Teresa of Avila, whose lead we will follow.

We will explore how to navigate fear and worry, build personal fortitude, and live with greater courage, as she did. We'll learn new practices sourced in the world's wisdom traditions for releasing fear, building trust in the Divine, and more. (Format: Group discussion, reflection time with journaling, meditation and prayer.

In keeping with today's previous post (and the post at Bead One, Pray Too), I will be teaching the practice of metta as an antidote to fear and worry.

Cost: $20.00

Location:
Dominican Center at Marywood
2025 E. Fulton, Grand Rapids, MI

To register: Call (616) 454-1241 or online www.dominicancenter.com

For further information on my workshops and retreats, please visit my website: www.awakenedliving.com

~~~~~

(Portrait of St. Teresa of Avila by Francoise Gerard, courtesy of Wikipedia.org)

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Meditation Monday

Meditation Monday

Offering Metta : The Practice of Lovingkindness


On this Meditation Monday, I am doing something a little different.

Instead of providing a meditation here, I'm sending you to the site of a new blog friend, Kimberly Winston, author of the book and blog, Bead One, Pray Too, and we are going to meditate together over there.

Today, Kimberly is featuring a piece on how she and I connected with the help of a powerful prayer/meditation practice of Metta—the practice of lovingkindness.

Metta is a practice that has truly transformed my life. It can transform yours, too ... to be more gentle, loving and kind ... to yourself and others ... even difficult others ... and, in time, everyone on this beautiful planet.

I will post more here later this week on Metta and how it has changed me, changed my life, for the better. Can't wait? Follow through the links on Kimberly's post today and you can learn more about it now. Enjoy!

Come on over to Bead One, Prayer Too for Metta. Let us bless one another together.


May you be happy.
May you be well.
May you be safe.
May you be peaceful and at ease.


And, as always, I welcome your thoughts ...


(Note: I've fallen in love with the beautiful image above of a Hindu woman praying. Read all about her here.)

~~~~~

Join me and a very special guest on Tuesday, July 14 ...

... my friend and colleague in personal growth, Tess Marshall, author of Flying by the Seat of My Soul, and creatrix of the blog, "The Bold Life." She will be here for a guest post. Stop by and say hi and soak up her boundless enthusiasm and love of life!

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I Sit Listening to the Wind

If you wish to know the divine,
feel the wind on your face and the warm sun on your hand.”
~The Buddha

This morning (and most mornings) I sat and listened. Simply listened.

It is a form of meditation for me, as well as the “method” I use to center myself, to plug myself into the Divine so those generous arms of peace can carry me through my day. I sit and listen to the wind and more ...

If the temperature allows, I go outside and sit on the small back porch that overlooks our yard and garden. It is a wildlife sanctuary in its own right, ringed by cedar trees for nesting, and bordered by a meadow that provides the curious, occasional visitor—a pair of ducks; a large, red fox; even a juvenile black bear who sneaks in at night to raid the bird feeders. I sit in a wicker rocking chair and watch the activity—and I listen.


Or, if it is a particularly warm and sunny day, I will go out the front door and wander down to the water’s edge. A bright pink Adirondack chair faithfully awaits my return. Sitting and listening here in this place of blue-green beauty offers a completely different type of experience. Kildeer and shore birds scuttle about. A freighter or schooner glides by. Fish jump and seagulls squawk, dipping down to catch them. A lone bald eagle silently soars high on air currents I cannot see. I sit and watch and listen.


You see, it is summer here in Michigan. We have three short months to savor this spectacular season before the leaves drop and winter settles in. Our winters are becoming longer and colder. Last winter we had 170 inches of snow. This year we had the furnace on in June. So, when things begin to green and pop here, outside we go, and, for many of us, outside we stay. I am one of those.

I am also a beach girl, born and bred. I have lived near or on “big water” most of my life. I am also a Leo, a lioness woman, who loves to lay and be lazy in the sun. I crave the warmth. This season, more than any other, soothes my soul. It also invites me to “do” less and “be more.” To take into my bones, as well as my memory bank, the wind, the warmth, the wonder of this magical time when everything around me is so alive, for the days will soon come when only a sky of gray and a groundcover of white can be seen.

I sit listening to it all: the creatures of nature, the whispers of the flowers, my heart, and the wisdom of Spirit. It is up to me to pay attention and heed their call.

This is what I am listening to and what I am hearing. There is a difference you know …


From the Garden:
Big, bold white daisies have presented their faces to the world. They are luminous and wide open, hiding nothing. They do not sequester their beauty, their optimism for life. They say to me, 'Accept your radiance and live it for all the world to see. Accept yourself as you are and be happy.'

From the Shore:
We have just completed major weeding. The beach was covered with overgrowth and, within days, many of them are back. They invite me to stay vigilant to my own self-weeding process. ‘When prickly thoughts or self-doubt sprout up, pull them up, not by their heads, but by their roots so they can be permanently tossed away.’

From My Heart:
I want to begin to write my next book. I have five started, but I am not sure which one it should be. So I’ve been listening, listening, listening—and no clear answer has been forthcoming. My ego-mind jumps in to give quick answers, to place pressure, a dearth of “shoulds.” My heart is telling me to wait, to sit, and listen some more.The answer will come. ‘Be patient. Be still. These things cannot be rushed. You will know when you know.’

From the Spirit:
In the early evenings, I am tempted to go back to my desk; to catch a half-hour or more of connection with my blogging friends, or to write e-mails to others. The sun begins to set and my husband hollers from the other room for me to come and take a look. The colors are stunning. Glorious sunsets, one after another, many evenings in a row, and I tend to miss them when my face is turned toward the computer instead of to the sky.

When I do oblige my spirit’s call, it feels as if I am witnessing the Master Painter itself expressing the sacred in bold patterns of brilliant color. I do not want to miss one moment of divine handiwork. ‘Come away with me. Live here in this place of timeless beauty and possibility. THIS is who YOU really are. Do you see yourself in my brush strokes?’


And, so I sit listening to the wind ... to the garden, the shore, my heart, to the Sacred within them all, and I accept their invitations.

Will you? What do you hear when you sit and listen?

~~~~~

If you would you like to learn more about how you can connect more deeply with the sacred in nature, I highly recommend the book Earth's Echo: Sacred Encounters With Nature by Robert M. Hamma. Bob just happens to be one of my editors at Sorin Books and his book is simply remarkable—and life-changing!

Join me and a very special guest on Tuesday, July 14. Tess Marshall, author of Flying by the Seat of My Soul, and creatrix of the blog, "The Bold Life," will here for a guest post. Stop by and say hi, and soak up her boundless enthusiasm and love of life! Get a big preview of talented Tess by downloading an e-version of her book FREE! Click here.

Have a glorious weekend!

(Sunset image, Lake Michigan, courtesy of healthylakes.org)

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Being Joy

Completing Our 30-Day Pilgrimage into Joy!

Days 38: We Arrive at the Shores of Joy

Yesterday I did not make a Joy post here because I was too busy—too busy being Joy. 

This may sound like an oxymoron to you and perhaps it is, but it makes perfect sense to me. Allow me to explain myself.

In the last week, knowing full well that our formal Pilgrimage into Joy was coming to an end, I doubled my efforts. I dove deep. I honed in on what was going on with me. I took my Joy temperature, observed my thoughts and emotions like a Joy scientist, and gave myself completely over to Joy's transformative powers. 

I dove headlong into inner junk. At first, the dive was very murky, mucked up with all kinds of ego messages about who I am and what I should be doing with my life; how to spend my time wisely, intentionally; how to best be in relationship with others. I could barely see the sludge was so thick ...

"Believe, breathe, and be well," were the words that kept coming to me, even in this dull state. These words have become a mantra for me over the years. When anything strikes—worry, anger, even sleeplessness—they have the effect of magic words upon me, easing my mind and opening my heart. 

And so I did ... believed, breathed, and I was well. In fact, I was more than well. I was "healed." 

This is not a new journey for me. Whenever I have set my intentions to fully embrace a new aspect of my truest self, all-the-while vowing to let go of anything that might prevent me from doing so, healing magic has happened. 

~In 1994, I desired inner peace more than anything else. I was at the end of my rope, beyond stressed, and rapidly losing my health. I ached for inner peace. I prayed and begged for it. When my heart was full-to-overflowing with this desire, and I had arrived at the place of which diarist Anais Nin spoke ... 

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful 

than the risk it took to blossom."

... the gateway to inner peace finally opened up. All manner of things lined up to provide what I needed to walk through and live in a bold, new way. 

I discovered the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh and the poetry of Rumi. I fell in love with "God" and the inner peace that divine connection brings. In what felt like a single, illuminating moment on a solitary beach on Lake Michigan, a deep and profound understanding of peace was finally mine. 

~In 1998, I set my sights on Love, Big Love, with a spiritual partner. I longed for Love in the form of a conscious intimate relationship. By engaging my deep desire, "doing the work of self," and surrendering to the Divine, Love found its way to my door. 

And so it has happened again, this process of pairing intention with letting go. This time the result is Joy. 

I was driving in the car. A funny place for Joy to arrive, but after all, who are we to question Divine Timing?

The previous 72 hours had, perhaps, been the most mindful I'd ever experienced. It began with preparations for the 4th of July weekend and the post (July 3) I created around that. Noticing big messages and deep patterns that were keeping me from JOY. I set the intention to finally, finally, finally break through them. Then I let go ... 

I found myself fully and completely present to what was. Present to all of it. To the highs, the lows. To the happiness, the sadness. To the ease, the tension, and it was all absolutely fine. In fact, it was wonderful. It was one of the best weekends of my life because I was fully there ... fully present. No struggle ... no struggle. 

Then yesterday, as I was driving alone in the car, no radio, no distractions, I suddenly noticed an "alrightness," a perfection of the world, of my life as it was. I had a sensation of deep settling in, centering, in the core of my being. It is difficult for me to put words to the experience. Suffice it to say that all the "virtues" of the Spirit of which we speak—Love, Peace, Gratitude, Generosity, Wonder, Harmony, and Joy, came to call. 

The peace was so deep, my ego wanted to jump in to make me not trust it. A thought came, "Am I dying?" Then another, "Did I take too much of my high blood pressure medication?" I actually felt for the pulse in my neck to see if I was alive and breathing normally. My ego-self questioned, doubted, what I was actually feeling. 

Blessedly, in that pivotal moment, the Voice I have come to trust as my own (Spirit's own) whispered, ever so gently: 

"This is Peace. This is Love. This is the Joy you have been longing for. 

This is what being alive is supposed to feel like." 

So I listened. I accepted. I embraced the feeling and reveled it in. I knew it to be true. A great Truth. We are made for JOY. 

Joy is here to stay. And I'd venture to say it is not going anywhere anytime soon. I am ever so grateful. 

My Pilgrimage is over. 

And yet, I know the journey will continue. It always does ...

For the world will offer up its sorrow, its discord, for that is the nature of the world. It will be up to me to continually reorient myself toward Joy when it does; to remember that Joy lives and breathes in me. Joy does not come and go or disapear. If anything, I am the one who will move away from its bounty or succumb to spiritual amnesia. When I get pulled out of this sense of "alrightness," I vow to have compassion for myself and turn my face, once again, toward Joy.

I invite you to stay faithful, too, to your own journey and not allow Joy to slip away or to be an infrequent visitor. I invite you to continue to investigate and release anything that prevents you from fully experiencing Joy and its twin sisters—Love, Peace, Gratitude, Generosity, Wonder, Harmony and more. You are made for Joy. Each and every one of us. No exceptions. 

Though our formal Pilgrimage into Joy at this blog has come to an end, I invite you to continue on. Rest assured, we will journey together, for this is what kindred spirits do ...

May you believe, breathe, and be well. 

May you live in Joy. May you "Be Joy" for all the world to see, for the world to heal by. 

And, as always, I welcome your thoughts ...

~~~~~

(Image courtesy of http://www.dimc.net)

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Meditation Monday

Join Our 30-Day Pilgrimage into Joy!

(...now a 38-Day Journey because we're participating in a "Joy Rebel Blog Party" with Bella at She Sleeps with Sea Glass.)

Days 37: We Take Joy in Solitude


Meditation Monday

Another Monday morning comes and a frantic pace begins, but only if we allow it to.

Instead of starting the day in a rush, make a different choice. Set aside some quiet time to be alone and access solitude.

Periods of solitude are important for us to reconnect with our center—that sacred space within where inner wisdom resides. The world in which we live overloads us with activity and bombards us with noise. When we spend so much time lost in the cacophony of life, it may be difficult to access our sacred center. 

Yet, the choice is ours. We can choose to step away and spend precious time in the quiet with our truest self. We can move away from the hustle and bustle to reconnect with our Peace, our Love, our Joy through regular periods of solitude. Take time today to step away, be completely alone, and commune with the One who lives and breathes through you. 

Allow Solitude to speak ...

Breathe slowly, deeply, evenly. Allow your breath to slow your thoughts and ease your mind. Drop your attention down into your sacred center and notice what is simmering there.


It is not an easy task to still the mindless chatter
of our thoughts.

And, yet, we must do so
if we are to truly hear the gentle whisperings of Spirit.

Like the wind, the Divine Voice murmurs ever so softly
into the recesses of our heart.

Such whispers are sweet and we must quiet ourselves to hear them.
Be prepared to listen intently.

Seek solitude and prepare your soul
that you may be lovingly guided by sacred whispers.*


Now, does your heart have anything to say?

~~~~~

(*Excerpted from Awakening the Spirit Within by Jan (Forrest) Lundy.

Image, "Sweet Memories," by the artist Roussouli. Visit his website to delight in more images of soulful women: Roussouli Art Studio.)

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Joy Lost, Joy Found

Join our 30-Day Pilgrimage into Joy!

Days 35-36: We Connect with "Simple" to Maintain Our Joy

I have company coming for the holiday and I’m watching what my ego-mind wants to do with that. It wants to send me into overwhelm:

“Oh, there is too much to do and you don’t have enough time.”

“Your house will take hours to clean it.”

“And don’t forget the grocery shopping, which you hate. Fit that in, plus the stores are going to be really busy.”

“So much to cook! And you better get on the internet to find some new recipes because yours are really old and boring.”

Enough! my wise mind says, the part of me that is sourced in the Spirit and who knows how to tap into “simple.”

Simple, to me, says Joy. It allows me to say no to the voice of overwhelm or those nasty “shoulds.” It speaks of ease and peace of body, mind, and heart. Simple means effortless, painless. When I am simple, I am calm, clear and wise. I am still learning …

You see, I am a recovering perfectionist, people pleaser, and Super Woman. I’ve written about this often over the years. But, honestly, I am not cured of these woes—yet! I am a work in progress. Company coming sends me into a tailspin of old patterns and messages. It takes conscious effort, keeping myself awake and aware, for me to see these nasties on the march and head them off at the pass.

When I don’t or can’t, they steal my Joy. I am not present with my family. I get caught up in being Martha Stewart and spending all my energy worrying and fussing. I am not “here” to en-Joy such fleeting, pleasurable times with the people I love.

So this year I caught myself. (Hooray!)

The house is fine. I’ll straighten up and lightly clean. No inspectors are coming.

I’ve cleared my afternoon and have plenty of time to shop, plus I don’t have that much to buy.

The menu is fine. Simple picnic foods. Minimal prep required. No new recipes.

Everyone is bringing something and we do not need to stuff ourselves and overeat.

Wow, do I feel better! It’s amazing how we can shift our thoughts and get in touch with wise mind. With recognition, a few breaths, and gentleness to self we can let go of the old and invite in the new.

And because I love words, I am going to give my journey to simple a new name. I pulled out my trusty Writer’s Thesaurus and found some great options. I could call it “Child’s play,” or any number of wonderful titles:

Easy As Pie
Piece of Cake
A Cinch
Duck Soup
No Sweat
Kid’s Stuff
Cracker-Barrel

Oh, this is fun!

I found one. It’s perfect for me. I’m going to rename my “Company’s company so get overwhelmed” journey as “A Breeze.” I just love that. No more Joy-stealing when company knocks at my door!

When I think of “A Breeze,” there is room to breathe, and there is a feeling of spaciousness all around it. And spaciousness is more of what I need if I am going to continue to embrace my truest, most wise and loving self.

How about you?

How does “simple” speak to you? Do you struggle with keeping things simple? Do certain scenarios, expectations, or old patterns steal your Joy?

What Joy-full new name would you like to give your life journey today?

I'm eager to hear ...

~~~~~

(Image courtesy of http://www.apartmenttherapy.com)

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Joy! Giving It Away ...

Join our 30-Day Pilgrimage into Joy!

Day 33-34: We Affirm that Giving Brings Joy


Our "Pilgrimage into Joy" continues on with a Joy Rebel Blog Party. 

See yesterday's post for all the juicy details.

What am I feeling especially Joy-full about today? Giving. I know I've said it here before, but if I were a wealthy woman, my full-time job choice would be "Philanthropist." I could find no greater Joy than spending my hours giving away all my wealth.

How about you? Do you love to Give?

Giving wholeheartedly from the storehouse of your heart creates true Joy—for both the giver and the receiver. The virtue of generosity has a very high vibration, indeed, generosity being another twin sister to Joy. How many twin sisters does Joy have anyway? Plenty!

And Joy breeds compassion ... Oh, do we need more compassion in our world right now!

I thought I'd share with you my top three favorite charitable causes that bring me great Joy. Just thinking about them, and the good they are doing in the world, makes my heart dance the happy dance.

The Seva Foundation

Seva (say-va) is a Sanskrit word for service. Seva Foundation was formed in 1978 with a mission to alleviate suffering caused by disease and poverty. Their approach is to build partnerships that respond to locally defined problems with culturally sustainable solutions. Working in nine countries in addition to the United States, Seva Foundation supports projects in the area of health and wellness, community development, environmental protection and cultural preservation. Seva currently works to:

~Prevent blindness and restore sight in India, Nepal, Tibet, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Egypt, Tanzania and Guatemala.

~Help indigenous communities in Guatemala and Mexico develop their capacity to meet basic needs and create solutions to poverty and injustice.

~Support Native American projects across the U.S. in the areas of health and wellness, community development, environmental protection and cultural preservation.

This is how it works. You purchase an "action."

For example, I can donate $50 and restore one blind person's sight in Tibet or plant a community garden with traditional Native American foods on a reservation. There is an entire list of what "gift of service" you can purchase. Click here to learn more.

You might also like to watch this You Tube video with Seva's co-founder's and spiritual teacher, Ram Dass.


The Tibetan Nuns Project

In 1987 the Tibetan Nuns Project was founded to provide education and humanitarian aid to refugee nuns from Tibet and the Himalayan regions of India. Food, clothing, housing, and basic medical care were organized. A sponsorship program was set up. Now nuns in six different nunneries, which represent all of the Tibetan Buddhist traditions, receive support through the Project.

For a monthly donation of $30, you can sponsor a nun living in exile, providing her with housing, food, and education for one year. You can correspond with "your nun." Or donate by making a purchase from their Store. Personally, I love their mala bracelets and bags. All items are made by the nuns themselves. Click here to learn more.

There is a soul stirring You Tube video on the Nun's Project you might enjoy.

Whatever It Takes

The concept is simple. They gather artworks from leaders in all fields; royalty, film, music, Nobel Peace Prize laureates, sports, literature etc. Each ambassador donates a symbol of hope, a self portrait and a message of hope for the future.

These artworks are used to create products: 'merchandise with a meaning'. From wristbands to clothing, from tableware to cosmetics and footwear, each product is ethically produced and sold to raise funds for charitable causes chosen by each contributing leader. Click here for the complete list to locate your favorites.

The aim is to raise a minimum of $3 million over three years to fund charitable projects in developing countries, contribute to the protection of the environment and other charitable causes.

I just purchased a very cool mug created by Michael Caine and Lady Shakira Caine. Their project of choice is " 21st Century Leaders and Anti-Slavery International." I love what the Caine's message of hope inscribed on the mug: "Smile Today. Life is not a rehearsel."

I also purchased a mug designed by Donna Karan for my step-daughter and a plate designed by actress Minnie Driver for a dear friend. They are very affordable. (Hint: I found mine at TJ Maxx.) Click here to learn more. 

Learn more by watching the You Tube Video with George Clooney.


So, what kind of GIVING gets you jazzed with Joy? I am eager to hear ...

~~~~~
(Banner photo courtesy of the Seva Foundation.)

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It's Joy Rebel Day! The Pilgrimage Continues ...

Join our 30-Day Pilgrimage into Joy!

Day 31: We Throw Predictability to the Wind and Follow Where Our Heart Leads 

I know that I said our "Pilgrimage into Joy" was going to be a 30-Day venture. Well, I've changed my mind. That's a girl's prerogative, right? And who can turn down a great party, anyway? 

Think of it as one of those trip extensions you can add on to your Tour. Going to Rome? Stay one week longer and visit Florence and Assisi. That's what we're doing here. We'll be taking a little sidetrip and discovering some new Joy sites along the way. 

For the next 8 days, Bella (Amy) at She Sleeps with Sea Glass, along with a number of 

others, including the oh, so rebellious Brandi, are having a Joy blowout—a Joy Rebel Blog Party—and we're invited. You can join up by visiting the sites that are mentioned here. 

Or, if you are feeling extra enthusaistic, you can jump in wholeheartedly and post on Joy at your own blog. If you do, be sure to contact Bella and let her know so that she can list your site on hers. 

And be extra sure to read Bella's post for today because what she did yesterday to spread some Joy around was absolutely amazing, delightful, and inspiring. What I am going to do to buoy a little bliss seems paltry compared to her magnanimous gestures, but this is what works for me. 

I love to spread Joy by writing letters to people. 

When I put pen to paper—after having selected a very special card or piece of notepaper just for him or her—it feels like I am whoosing the recipient with Love ... sending angel kisses ... offering blessings of well-being and regard. Well, at least that's how it feels to me. 

Letter writing, I believe, is fast becoming a lost art. 

It is a soulful practice, something people have done for eons to connect, heart-to-heart. There is something just so special about receiving a handwritten letter, don't you agree? But when was the last time you received one?

Now, with our fast paced lives and computer/phone technology, letter writing has become a thing of the past. We zip out fast e-mails or pick up the phone to call when we want to connect— which is great, don't get me wrong. But, truthfully, I miss those handwritten envelopes in my mailbox. When I see someone's personal flourish upon paper, my heart simply sings. I feel like we are really plugged in, soul-to-soul.

I treasure the cards and letters I receive and keep them in a very special place. I come from a family of letter writers and I have in my possession the love letters that both sets of grandparents wrote to each other in the 1920s, one set penned during wartime from France. I have all my father's letters he wrote to his parents when he was in the Navy in WWII. I have all the cards my children ever gave me; the letters my daughter sent me from Iraq when she was stationed there as a Marine in 2002; the letters my husband and I sent to one another when we were "courting." True, many of these were e-mails, but I printed them out and now they rest safely in a special folder. 

And I admit, I have drawers and bins full of stationary and cards and I have a paper fetish. Given a few extra dollars in my pocketbook, I will buy notecards. I can't help myself. I love to whoosh people with Love.

So today my Joy Party is on the quiet side, but that's just me. I'll be writing letters ...

What will you do to spread a little Joy today?

I'm eager to hear...

~~~~~

Congratulations to Caroline at The Zen in You and Whimsy Whispers! She is the winner of Cindy La Ferle's wonderful book, Writing Home.  Enjoy!!!

"Angels Kissing" image courtesy of jbgraphic.com/ childrenart.html

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