Mind, Body, Spirit Connections

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

May 31, 2011

Wave of fatigue~

It always surprises me when I am hit by a wave of fatigue. This wave is so palpable that I must lie down and hope that a twenty minute nap will suffice. This does not happen very often, and the nap did not work. Oh, the little bell of alarm is going off!

What is wrong with me?

Known as the woman with the energy of 10 people, I am not used to feeling overly tired. In fact, it ignites a bit of irritation and frustration in me. Now, if I am not good fatigued, you certainly do not want to be around me irritated. I want to peel the irritation off my skin like a wet suit. And just step back out into the clean, fresh air.

But, it doesn't work that way. I am cranky (for no reason), tired, and now my daughter, whom I adore, is frustrating me too. It's a bit surreal witnessing yourself, knowing that on one level it is fleeting, and yet simultaneously fully immersed in your "ick."

You are probably wondering why I just don't do some simple, easy "get into balance" techniques. To be honest, I am a bit fascinated by the creature inhabiting my body; even if it is uncomfortable. Like I said, this does not occur often. And, unfortunately, I don't like hot baths, my deep breathing did not work, and I am too tired to do yoga!

Thank God my very smart husband is pampering me and in two hours I'll be asleep!

Monday, May 30, 2011

May 30, 2011

Touching the Sky~

I am inspired by Jessica, Sgt. Guinta, the first living soldier to be given the Medal of Honor since Vietnam, and  countless others unnamed and unknown who rise above their adversity daily to touch the sky.   Unsung heroes surround us. Ordinary people doing extraordinary things; as Sgt. Guinta humbly stated, "I am a mediocre soldier, think of how great the great soldiers are!"

I am deeply touched by Jessica's story below, and by the actions and words of Guinta. He is clearly uncomfortable in his new role, and yet he continues to represent himself with the utmost dignity and honesty.

Memorial Day is not only a day of remembrance, but a day to ask ourselves "How am I touching the sky? In what small way can I be extraordinary?" We do not need to run into enemy fire to save our fellow soldier, or learn to fly a plane with our feet. We are witness to ordinary people doing extraordinary acts everyday -- as witnessed by listening to and watching the survivors of Joplin.

So, as we enjoy our picnics, families, and the simple fact that we are alive, let's also reflect on how we might be a little extraordinary today...or tomorrow.
Touching the Sky~Jessica Cox
View more presentations from Joke Channel

Sunday, May 29, 2011

May 29, 2011

Healing vs Curing~

"In the distinction that I make between healing and curing, healing is what brings us closer to God. Curing means bringing you back to "what you were" ----but if what you were wasn't closer to God, then you haven't been healed."

~From "Still Here"....Ram Dass

Another quote to ponder and explore. I like the distinction Ram Dass makes between healing and curing and the idea that "healing" is an on-going journey towards God. That said, is being "healed"  really possible? Healed implies something finite and a destination point.  Maybe the last line should read..."but if what you were wasn't closer to God, then a healing did not occur."

I think we are always "healing" -- intentionally walking a path towards God. Everyday presents an opportunity to self-examine, to be awake, and aware of our presence in the world.  To ask, am I in 'fear' in this moment or a place of love? Each time we explore our fears, places of darkness and unrest, we engage in healing. The intention to shine light into the dark creates the opportunity to dispel that darkness and step more fully into the light.

Like peeling the layers of an onion. We become closer and closer to our true nature, our own divinity, and begin living from a pure heart. And with this awareness, and heart-centeredness, you become a healing presence for others. They cannot help but feel your grace and love. This in turn inspires and encourages another to walk this path, to face the fear and darkness, and trust that their light is truly burning within waiting to be discovered.

Given the choice, I'll let the ham be 'cured' and I'll keep 'healing.'

Saturday, May 28, 2011

May 28, 2011

The True Meaning of Memorial Day~

Thank you to all of the men and woman, past and present, who have served our nation. Please watch this incredible tribute.

It says it all~

http://youtu.be/wK0T4pVHP28

Friday, May 27, 2011

May 27, 2011

Happiness~

"Happiness cannot be traveled to, owned, earned, worn, or consumed...happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute with love, grace and gratitude."

     ~Author Unknown (at least to me, in this moment)

It's an elusive feeling, isn't it?

Happiness~

We search far and wide, we dig deep and reach high, we absorb spiritual enlightenment and we release our negativity, and yet, that feeling of happiness can still elude us, playing coy, unwillingly to yield to our gentle, persistant coaxing.

I must part ways with the unknown author in one aspect..."living every single minute with love, grace and gratitude." I do not think we can do this. Perhaps it is faulty wiring, DNA inferiority, hormonal mood swings, or just plain 'ol being human. We aren't designed to live every single minute in love, grace and gratitude...even the greatest yogis, gurus, saints, and Jesus did not live 'every single minute' in this state.

Afterall, we are born with innate flaws! And yet, aren't these the very human characteristics that make us so loveable, fragile, imperfect, and perplexing? When we heed to the quiet call to rise above our 'state of imperfection' and reach within to discover that place we call 'home', our journey begins. For the author is very correct in saying that happiness is not found externally, but internally.

Love, grace and gratitude are indeed the ingredients for happiness. I would add too, wisdom. The wisdom acquired when you realize that happinesss has wings, and we must kiss it as it flies by, trusting deeply that it will return again and again.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

May 26, 2011

Life's Little Ironies~

Last night Andy and I watched Water for Elephants.  I can't wait to read the book. The story was compelling, the acting superb, and we just loved the animals, especially Rosie.

We were almost home when we heard the sickening thud of an animal under the car. "Oh, God" I said to Andy. "I hope it's not someone's cat." With dread, we turned around and went back. At first, it looked like one of our cats, Butter, because of the markings. Upon closer inspection, we realized we had hit a beautiful, golden fox. She was still breathing, but not moving.

After just watching the suffering of the horse and beating of Rosie, there was no way we were going to let this poor thing just lie there, and probably get hit again. Nor, was I going to shoot the fox - no gun and it's just not in me. Andy left to get a board so we could get her out of the road, and I tried to direct traffic to avoid her being squashed. Much to my alarm, I was almost squashed twice by two SUVs that could  not see me waving my arms like a maniac!

We got her in the back of the van. While Andy called vets, I continued to stroke her fur, and send her Reiki. I was so touched by her stanima, and strength. I prayed she was not in pain. We were on our way to a 24 hour animal rescue clinic in Daytona, when the little fox took her last breath.  Andy and I buried her in our yard.

Does life imitate art, or does art imitate life?

The golden fox has gotten under my skin~

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

May 25, 2011

Voice of an angel~

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFFo1pu4q7Q

For my 50th birthday, my father sent me golfballs (no surprise) and a CD. He told me he listens to it all the time. I played it and cried.

Eva's voice is unlike any I have heard. Goosebumps, chills, tears, and a vast appreciation for her range and ability to sing gospel, blues, jazz, folk, and pop -- a pure artist. One song in particular, Songbird, makes me cry every time I listen to it. I played it for Andy this afternoon telling him to pretend that I was singing this to him. I draped my arms around his shoulders and the tears streamed down my face as I opened my heart to her voice and words.

Later this afternoon, I learned that Eva Cassidy died in 1996 at the age of 33 from melanoma. I must say I am still in a bit of shock. The sheer, heartfelt emotion embodied in her songs will ignite you. The CD is entitled Eva by Heart.


Treat youself and listen to Songbird~

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

May 24, 2011

When you become Real~

Thank you Glenda Harty for my inspiration today with two great quotes from your facebook page.

"The wound is the place where light enters you"
~Rumi

How can we possibly become real without our wounds? Our pain allows the light to enter, creates contrast, and invites us to explore the crevices within ourselves. Too often, we medicate our wounds. Rather than letting the natural healing process of the body repair our physical wounds, we are quick to ingest an antibiotic or variety of over the counter medications for immediate relief.

We tend to do the same with our emotional, mental and spiritual wounds. What distraction or addiction can I lose myself into to avoid feeling these awful emotions? The irony is that you can do all the self-medicating you want, the wound is still there. And it is raw and will stay raw until you allow the natural inclination of your spirit to explore, understand, feel, forgive and release the hurt. Then the wound will heal.

Life is bittersweet. It's supposed to be painful, so that we can also experience the joy, and learn how to love fiercely, passionately and with compassion. I welcome the lessons, even the painful ones. It makes me think of one of my favorite children's books, The Velveteen Rabbit.

"Generally, by the time you are Real, most of your hair has been loved off, and your eyes drop out and you get loose in the joints and very shabby. But these things don't matter at all, because once you are Real you can't be ugly, except to people who don't understand." Margery Williams, The Velveteen Rabbit

Go ahead Life - make me Real~

Monday, May 23, 2011

May 23, 2011

Spirit Sisters~

Four of our seven spirit sisters met tonight for our monthly gathering. It was beautiful. We spent time sharing, meditated, learned and practiced a new healing technique (the pendulum and chakras) and then we ate yummy food! Perfect evening.

It was great fun tonight to stumble upon a website entitled Spiritual Sisters of the Internet Cafe.  http://www.spiritualsisters.com/

We are not the only ones appreciating sisterhood and the idea of sharing our spiritual paths. I've included a blog written by Jane Mulikin, a main contributor to Spiritual Sisters of the Internet Cafe.

"I believe in Heaven. I have for a long time now. With me it is not just a matter of faith either. I also believe in Heaven because of all the evidence I see here on Earth. I see this evidence not only in the glorious natural world all around us but also in the endless acts of love that come from the hearts of people as well. These are the people who bring a bit of Heaven to Earth everyday and they are the ones I wish to thank now.

To all the people then who pick up the trash off the ground and plant trees and flowers in its place, thank you. To every parent who spends the day hard at work and then goes home and makes the time to play with and read to their kids, thank you. To every kind heart who has ever taken in and loved a stray dog or cat, thank you. To every person who has ever opened their purse or wallet and given to a charity not out of duty but out of love, thank you. To everyone who has ever offered a ride, opened a door, or shared a smile with a stranger, thank you. To every good Samaritan who has stopped along the way to help a person in need, thank you. To every gentle spirit who has shared their laughter, encouraged a friend, or inspired another soul, thank you. To every single person who has tried to make this world a little better through what they do, thank you. And to every soul who not only knows the words "Love your neighbor as yourself" but tries to live them as well, thank you.

God doesn’t just want each of us to one day reach Heaven, He also wants each of us to bring a little Heaven down here to Earth as well. Do your best then to love and be loved, to care for others and the world around you, to create joy rather than sadness, and to help everyone you can every chance you can. Do your best to let God’s love live through you. Then you will be ready for Heaven, because you will carry a bit of Heaven with you wherever you go."

Jane speaks a truth I deeply believe in. Heaven on Earth. The rapture is not out there, it is within us, to be discovered in our own unique way and in our own time. We are all called to find Heaven within, to recognize the divine light that we carry within ourselves.

"Do your best to love and be loved"~

Sunday, May 22, 2011

May 22, 2011

Benefits of Lemon Eucalyptus~

I don't know about you, but I do not like bugs much. We are entering into bug season. The love bugs are furiously mating and performing their death-dance on our windshields and the no-see-ums, and mosquitoes are not far behind. Did you know that it is the female no-see-um that bite and suck our blood? They need our blood for the needed protein to reproduce. I bet now that you know that juicy tibit you won't mind them so much -- not!

The products we have to kill (that sounds so violent) -- eliminate these little "buggers" -- often have the ingredient DEET. We all know DEET is not good for us!

An alternative is lemon eucalyptus. The oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based repellent that has proven to be as effective as repellents with low concentrations of DEET.

If that is not incentive enough for you to go on-line and order some lemon eucalyptus oil, it is also great for joint health, as an antiseptic and to calm.

Bugs Be Gone~

Saturday, May 21, 2011

May 21, 2011

Love~

I once asked a bird, "How is it that you fly in this gravity of darkness?" She responded, "Love lifts Me." Hafiz

Open your heart and allow love to flow in~

Feel the heaviness lift as you breathe in deeply imaging golden light streaming into your heart. Then exhale slowly out your mouth, releasing any and all tensions and stress. Try this simple breath technique 3 times and notice how much lighter you feel.

Pay attention to when you lose your sense of balance; when you begin to feel stressed, agitated, or overly frustrated. In this moment, step back from whatever you are doing, and breathe deeply. Imagine the golden light streaming in....and the tension leaving on the exhale.

You can shift your consciousness in any moment. It's a choice.

Let love lift you~

Friday, May 20, 2011

May 20, 2011

Lightness of Being~

Yes, it is perfectly fine to laugh, play and cut loose! I had such a good time last night and it was great fun to write freely, and unabashedly, about our hysterical evening.

Walking in truth demands honesty and vulnerability. It requires being naked.


If you have ever skinny dipped, you know the feeling I am describing. The daring thought of it, the stripping off of clothes, the goose bumps prompted by the breeze and the 'adventure' of it all, and then the plunge into the dark waters which seem to induce a sense of fear and delight simultaneously.

"Are we going to get caught?"

"Oh, my god, I am naked!"

And then the thrill takes over as you swim into the divine; feeling the softness of the water on your body  unencumbered by cloth, and the smells and sounds inundate the senses, as you drift into a profound state of freedom.

You are floating in bliss~

To live without fear is like swimming naked in the waters of divinity. Go ahead, be naked. Think of one fear you would like to release. Toss it away and feel the release and freedom.

Give yourself permission to be vulnerable~

Thursday, May 19, 2011

May 19, 2011

How do you know when the salmon is done?

Before I even answer this tricky question, I must admit that we (yes, a friend unnamed and I), are slightly inebriated and this blog will sorely disappoint most, unless you have a finely, twisted sense of humor.

Ok, so you are waiting for the answer~

When the smoke alarm goes off and says (literally) FIRE! FIRE!...

the salmon is done;

CRISPY~

My unnamed friend has just informed that this is the worst blog ever....duh!

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

May 18, 2011

Celebrating the sun~


I've been in Indiana less than 48 hours and the impact of the gray, white sky, heavy with moisture, and cold does not go unnoticed or felt. I have been spoiled in the last year living in New Smyrna Beach, Florida with the radiant blue skies, bright sun, and the unexpected breeze that caresses my cheek.


The stark contrast engenders gratitude~


My dear friend, whom I am visiting in Indianapolis, shared a poem with me written by one of our favorite poets, Mary Oliver.

Such Gifts

The Place I Want to Get Back To

is where
in the pinewoods
in the moments between
the darkness

and first light
two dear
came walking down the hill
and when they saw me

they said to each other, okay,
this one is okay,
let's  see who she is
and why she is sitting

on the ground, like that,
so quiet, as if
asleep, or in a dream,
but, anyway, harmless;

and so they came
on their slender legs
and gazed upon me
not unlike the way

I go out to the dunes and look
and look and look
into the faces of the flowers:
and then one of them leaned forward

and nuzzled my hand, and what can my life
bring to me that could exceed
that brief moment?
For twenty years

I have gone every day to the same woods,
not waiting, exactly, just lingering.
Such gifts, bestowed,
can't be repeated.

If you want to talk about this
come to visit. I live in the house
near the corner, which I have named
Gratitude.


Gratitude enters into our lives in so many ways; gently, softly, quietly, unannounced, unexpectedly, brashly, brilliantly...we must be open to accept and cherish. Perhaps it is a matter of entering into at state of  "lingering" with full awareness, anticipating the gift of gratitude that awaits us.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

May 17, 2011

Sex~


As my previous blogs about my daughter reveal, she is not so ordinary! I think I have outlined the challenges clearly.

Delightful is an understatement describing her unbelievably honest, direct and straight from the heart feelings on any subject broached. Last night, I stepped right into "sex."

It's my fault, mind you. The "ever-so" vigilant mother who clearly perceived the "ever-so" ripe opportunity for my daughter to enter into her first relationship, blindly said (at the dinner table no less), "So, let's talk about sex."

"Mom," she said staring me straight in the face, "I have this covered. I've researched the different methods of birth control. I'm doing the shot."

At this point, I'm thinking to myself, "The shot?" She then goes on to describe some other methods (unknown to me) and matter of factly states that it takes 3 months to be fully in your system.

"Really?"

I nod like I know this fact. "So, mom, I will be telling you three months in advance when I am ready to have sex. But I am not ready."

Now, here's where the gleam comes into her eye, she makes the perfect comedic pause, and then says, "My hormones are, but I'm not!"

I thought Andy and I would roll over and die laughing.

What an honor and blessing to have this open, honest relationship with my daughter. I was not able to with my mother, and somehow this makes what Zoe and I have even that more sweet and precious.

Monday, May 16, 2011

May 16, 2011

Surrender is...

Full attention
Appreciation of life's richnesss
Opening yourself to what is in front of you
Nonjudgment
Absence of ego
Humility
Being receptive to all possibilities
Allowing love

Deepak Chopra~

Sunday, May 15, 2011

May 15, 2011

Open the Floodgates~

Due to the worst flooding in 40 years, the decision was made to open the floodgates to protect the larger cities of Baton Rouge and New Orleans along the Mississippi River.  I was struck this morning by the reaction of those whose homes will be destroyed. We are talking about 25,000 people and at least 11,000 buildings.

And how are they reacting?

"We love the river. We knew the risk and we knew this was possible. It was worth the risk." And then I watched the images of people loading up their valuables on boats, others packing their cars and trailers, and leaving to higher ground. I did not sense resentment, or defeat, but a quiet, reflective acceptance of Nature and the choice to live on the river.

One commentator said, "You have to cut the thumb off to save the hand." I immediately thought of the wonderful, true story, I just watched, entitled 127 Hours. This young man broke his arm, and then cut through his arm with a dull blade to free himself from the boulder that held him pinned in the canyon.

When we are faced with our very survival...flood waters or a massive boulder pinning our arm, we are called to rise beyond our wildest imaginings. What would you do?

I don't know~

I have never been in this kind of perilious position before, but I would like to think that I could graciously leave my home or cut my arm off to continue to live this glorious life.

Saturday, May 14, 2011

May 14, 2011

"An Enemy is a Person whose story we have not heard."

"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit."

Quotes found @tonyrobbins/twitter~

Friday, May 13, 2011

May 13, 2011

Up and Running~

My site is finally up and running~

It's late and it has been a full day of "up and running" -- visiting my Aunt in Ponte Verda, my son, Max, in St. Augustine, and then attending a Grand Opening at Serene Garden Decor in New Smyrna Beach. I want to focus on the lovely couple from Ohio that have worked so hard to build this business into quite an enterprise. We came late (as we rushing down from up North) to find at least a 100 people in attendance. Live music, food, beer, wine and lots of smiles greeted us. Eric and Carol were beaming, as were their staff, soaking in the outpouring of good will and best wishes.

It was a moment to relish~

We hired Eric and Carol to do our hardscape. Not only did Eic conceive the perfect design for our outdoor patio, he ensured the highest quality workmanship. This is a company that believes in "excellence." Hard to find these days. And you could tell from everyone who attended the grand opening, most of them clients, that they felt the same way. They were celebrating excellence, quality and good hard working people. Even more impressive, Serene Garden Decor was collecting donations to support Cuda Unhooked, a non-profit organization assisting homeless teens to graduate from high school.

You are beyond "up and running" Eric and Carol, you are making a big splash in this little community of New Smyrna Beach.

We love you~

May 12, 2011

Blogger down ~ sorry for inconvenience~

It was a forced vacation day as blogger.com was down for over 24 hours!

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

May 11, 2011

A Little Boy At A Big Piano~

Wishing to encourage her young son's progress on the piano, a mother took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted a friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her. Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked "NO ADMITTANCE." When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing. Suddenly, the curtains parted and the spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing." Then leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child and he added a running obbligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was mesmerized. That's the way it is in life. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best but the results aren't exactly graceful flowing music. But when we trust in the hands of a Greater Power, our life's work truly can be beautiful. Next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You can hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, "Don't quit. Keep Playing."

~Author Unknown~

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

May 10, 2011

Zen and Golf~

The game of golf is one of the most humbling sports I have ever participated in.

It’s all about you, and the six inches between your ears!

I thought I had finally found my groove after 6 months of struggling with a new golf swing. The last four rounds played, I scored decently (for me). Then I came out today and lost my game. I couldn’t hit a shot to save my life, or putt!

What happened?

I just don’t understand this game. My elder, more wiser mentors, shake their heads, commiserate, and tell me “this is the game.” My youthful immaturity cries “NO” this can’t be the game. Unfortunately, I am ever so slowly coming to the same conclusion. BTW, golf spelled backwards is “Flog.”

Golf is very much like life. We have our outstanding days where everything falls into place and you are on top of the world – in the flow. And then, the next day, you wake up and wonder “Where did the joy go? Wasn’t I just riding the biggest, coolest wave?” Golf is similar. Every once in awhile, you fall into the “zone” and shoot a 36, like one of our gals did today. Too often, however, it is exactly the opposite. You fall into the abyss, and struggle to maintain some semblance of dignity on the course.

I admit, I am licking my wounds. But, there’s always tomorrow and the challenge of getting out of my head and into the zone~



Monday, May 9, 2011

May 9, 2011

Weeds~

I love using the “garden” and “gardening” as a metaphor to describe our healing journey. I have done so in past blogs. I am not so keen, however, on “weeds” and “ weeding.” I may have mentioned this before, so please excuse me for repeating my distaste for weeding.

I just finished pulling a gazillion weeds (slight exaggeration) in the hot, late, afternoon sun. There is no easy way to weed. I tend to bend over from the waist, feeling the pull on my back, and the stiffening of my lower back muscles, definitely signaling a very bad back day tomorrow! I try sitting, but my arms do not reach very far and then you find yourself trying some obscene, undignified crab crawl to the next patch of weeds. Forget hands and knees, as my patch is all pine straw, apparently used to keep the weeds at bay (yah, right), and way too harsh on my poor tender knees and hands.

As I pulled, I found myself having one of my many internal dialogues that often lead to a new awareness, or another way of thinking about something.

You guessed it – I had a tiny epiphany about weeding~

I consciously tried to get into the present moment watching myself pulling these tiny oak tree shoots that seem to multiply faster than love bugs. This practice is referred to as “mindfulness”. As I pulled myself out of my “bellyaching” mode, and transitioned into a more aware, in-the-moment state of mind, I noticed that the pulling of weeds was kind of fun.

Yes, I wrote fun!

I was intrigued with how easily those little shoots came up, and delighted in how quickly I could pull those little buggers. In no time, I had completely weeded my fairly large patch and was quite pleased.

It struck me that our lives are littered with weeds; some little ones and some big ones. Some are easy to pull and others are rooted deeply and take hand trimmers and ruthlessness to extract. Nevertheless, the act of weeding makes room for what we are cultivating to bloom and manifest. The internal horizon is more pleasant without the weeds. It does take effort and persistence. But, once you are weeding diligently, it is effortless and the spaciousness created within is truly something to appreciate.

What are the “weeds” that need pulling for you? Take a moment, breathe deeply, and pull away!

Sunday, May 8, 2011

May 8, 2011

Celebrating mothers and the children we have birthed and those we have loved~

Today is a special day for any woman who has experienced the trials and joys of motherhood. I can only speak from my experience. And, I am acutely aware, that my journey as a mother has been unique.

I have been blessed with two biological children; and many more who call me "mom". My journey as a mother has been special as I have two children who have been so easy to raise; blessings in my life and in so many other lives. This morning my daughter, Zoe, gave me a beautiful card and book entitled My Mom is the Best! She sat on my bed and read me the entire book.

"She taught me to treasure the little things."

"She gave me roots."

"She remembers what makes me happy."

I sat on the bed and cried, fully embracing the moment and how lucky I was to have my daughter Zoe. Thank God I know enough about nineteen year old boys not to have any expectations of Max! No call, no card, no flowers...how is that for wisdom? It will dawn on him eventually, and he will call.

Perfect~

My other children have texted, emailed, and facebooked...how humbling to know that I have played a positive role in their lives. I love all my children; blood or not. Each one of them are a treasure in my life. Each one has made my life richer and more joyful.

Celebrate the day mothers~  We truly are blessed~

Saturday, May 7, 2011

May 7, 2011

Computer Issues~

We live in an age where it is difficult to navigate our lives without a computer. How did this happen? Not only am I completely aware of how dependent I am on the computer for my work and social life, I am stewing in frustration that my computer is not working and I am unable to communicate in my preferred mode!

Just the other day, a good friend of mine shared her ongoing computer saga and the angst it has caused her. We laughed and wondered why we just didn't pick up the phone. Two reasons for me. One, folks just don't answer the phone anymore. You are always leaving a message. Two, I don't like talking on the phone for more than 5 minutes. There are exceptions, of course, but honestly, I am not a phone person. I like email! It is short and sweet and on your timeline.

Computer is still not working. Sorry to those I can not access tonight.

Don't call me~

Friday, May 6, 2011

May 6, 2011

Generosity~

It has been a day of unexpected generosity - intellectual gifts, superb dinner and conversation, an unexpected turn of events resulting in new and amazing possibilities. When we give to others, we overflow with abundance.

But first, we must learn to be generous to ourselves~

Jon Kabat-Zinn says:

"Generosity is another quality which, like patience, letting go, non-judging, and trust, provides a solid foundation for mindfulness practice. You might experiment with using the cultivation of generosity as a vehicle for deep self-observation and inquiry as well as an exercise in giving. A good place to start is with yourself. See if you can give yourself gifts that may be true blessings, such as self-acceptance, or some time each day with no purpose. Practice feeling deserving enough to accept these gifts without obligation - to simply receive from yourself, and from the universe."

Quote was found in The Yantra Deck - The Art of Being Present, Karl Schaffner. To learn more, go to http://www.yantradeck.com/

Thursday, May 5, 2011

May 5, 2011

Thirty women - Ninety pounds later~

What happens when 30 women get together to cook in one kitchen? One might imagine mayhem, especially if you knew that there were an equal number of bottles of wine!

I experienced my first cooking class last night. Local organic farmers donated the fresh produce, and Lori, who owns the catering business, provided the space, seafood, and other ingredients to concoct 16 dishes!
Yep, I said 16. Holy Moly...and yes, we each sampled every one of those delectable edibles.

I'm still recovering~

Have you ever tried 16 different dishes in a span of 3 hours? It was pure Heaven, until I got on the scale this morning! In between courses, and while we prepared these exquisite recipes, we of course sipped copious quantities of wine. The bustling, laughter, and the intensity of which we took to our tasks was something to behold.

It was so much fun!

There were moments when I just stepped back, and admired the women prepping, cooking, cleaning, and chatting amongst themselves, amazed at how efficiently, effortlessly and joyfully they created their masterpieces. Adding to the festivities was knowing that our money was being donated to the farmers who were going to local elementary schools to start organic gardens and teach the children about healthy eating.

I am only minimally comforted by this generosity as I sip my water...the beginning of my three day fast~

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

May 4, 2011

Tapping into the Energy ~

"A meditative technique which will help you to feel more vibrant and alive, enjoying whatever life brings.
Just take a deep breath. Feel it hitting in the middle of the chest. Feel as if the whole existence is pouring into
you, into your heart. Do it at least five times – deep breaths; take it in, fill the heart. Just feel in the heart centre that existence is pouring in vitality, life.

Now exhale deeply, again from the heart, and feel you are pouring all that has been given to you back into
existence. Do it many times in the day, but whenever you do it, do five breaths at once. That will help you to shift from the head to the heart. And you will become more and more sensitive, more and more aware of many things of which you have not been aware. You will smell more, taste more, touch more, see more, hear more; everything will become intense. You will start feeling life really throbbing in you, ready to jump,
ready to flow."

Osho
Excerpted from The Zero Experience.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

May 3, 2011

Is Peace just an ideal or attainable?

An excerpt from Tony Campolo's blog, written by Jimmy Spencer Jr. - May 2, 2011
"I remember watching the riots and flag burning in parts of the Middle East that took place after the 9/11 events. I remember feeling angry toward those people celebrating the deaths of my countrymen. I remember feeling anger toward the people that perpetrated the attacks on mothers and fathers and working class people across the country. I couldn’t help but to think, “what is wrong with those people that they really think that God is on their side?” I remember thinking; “They actually think that this is how God demonstrates his favor—by killing the people who don’t fit into our moral, political or religious agendas?”

...and here I sit again.

Watching my Facebook Wall filling up with American cheers and jeers.

“God is on our side!!”
“God’s justice has been done!”

It made me cry a bit.
It makes me angry again.

Watching my Facebook friends, pastors and Christians strike their own chorus of revelry and revenge that somehow God’s will has been done and He has acted for us. He has delivered justice for us. He has delivered revenge for us. He has delivered our enemies to us because He is good and just—and God is on our side.

Of course, the logical flaw is that everyone thinks this."

We become so easily stuck in this quagmire of illogical thought. Everyday, in small and insignificant ways, we engage in the "I'm right, you are wrong" thinking and dialogue. When will be able to hold a broader perspective; one that encompasses multiple perspectives, and allows the co-existence of differing beliefs and understandings?

Should I seek to harm you through thought, word or deed because you do not act, think, or believe as I do? Why is it so difficult for us to hold multiple perspectives, and not become seduced into the black and white thinking of 'right and wrong'?

Is peace really attainable?

I firmly believe peace must begin within ourselves. Everyday, every hour, every minute we have the opportunity to question whether we are acting (or re-acting) out of fear or love. This practice of mindfulness brings us to an awareness of self that allows for deep reflection. Am I acting in love? Or, am I acting in fear? If it is fear, then step back, pause, and take a minute to ask yourself, how can I respond differently?

The death of Osama bin Laden may indeed be a blessing on levels still not understood. Perhaps the current polarization, and fruitful dialogue that is transpiring, is a catalyst for us to examine and question ourselves on a deeper level.

Are we practicing peace or revenge; are we creating friends or enemies; are we building bridges or burning them?

Monday, May 2, 2011

May 2, 2011

The death of Osama Bin Laden~

Why are we celebrating? The wars continue --the bloodshed, the mayhem, and loss of innocent life. We have killed one man. Is the death of Osama bin Laden going to bring back all the lives lost in the last ten years? Is his death going to end the ceaseless cycles of violence we witness daily? Is his death going to end terrorism?

No~

I am bothered by the scenes of celebration in the streets – people are cheering and drinking champagne. I’m sorry, but I feel somber and reflective. While I absolutely do not condone terrorism, and I understand that “justice” needed to be served, I think we walk a very gray line when we begin justifying and celebrating an “eye for an eye” mentality.

Emails are coming into CNN now about what we do next. And, what do you think is being said? “Kill the Mexican Cartels ….” Do you see the issue? When does it end? How does violence end violence?

After 9/11, we retaliated with a vengeance and declared a “war on terror” and bombed Iraq. How many American soldiers have been killed? How many Iraqis and innocent civilians? Is Osama’s death going to heal the wounds inflicted by this violence? I don’t think so.

I wish everyone on TV would just be quiet. Why can we not go into a time of silence, a time of remembrance, and prayer. Our prayer should be for the end of violence, within ourselves and in others.

As long as we relish in the death of another –any “other” – we will not be free~

Sunday, May 1, 2011

May 1, 2011

In the arms of angels~

http://youtu.be/2LuGzwNy2ws

May you find comfort there my sweet sister.

These are hard times for so many. My sister, in particular, is in the midst of dramatic change and loss. And, she is running on "empty"; mustering every ounce of energy she has each day to stay strong, in her integrity, and keep the ship sailing.

Loss does not seem to happen 'solo'. I've noticed in my life, that crisis seems to come in at least three's. It's not just the job, but the relationship too, and an illness on top of that as if you don't have enough to handle. In one particularily fond year I can recall, we experienced the loss of our business, a crime against our child, a move out of state, and subsequent loss of the employment which had precipitated the move in the first place!

How do we keep going in the face of adversity? As I listen to Sarah's song, Angel, I am reminded that we are never alone. We can find comfort in the angels, both present in our lives and the angelic beings that always surround us.

And, we must ask and be willing to receive the love and comfort that is available to us. In the past, my tendency has been to draw inward, buckle down, and weather the storm. It is so much easier to open, be vulnerable, and surrender into the love that surrounds us.

May you find comfort in the arms of the angels~