Do you ever have one of those super productive starts to the day? Everything's planned, packed and ready to go! It feels good to start a day like that.
Earlier this week I was excited to start my morning off well prepared (a rarity I must admit!). The night before I sat out my exercise clothes so that I could wake up, walk the dog, then go straight to the yoga class at the gym. Then I packed my work clothes so that I could do a quick change and get moving. Being a person who is not always conscientious of time, I even had certain times decided of when I needed to leave where to be on time.
When I woke up, I threw on said clothes, put my bag in the car, then went and got Wyatt for our walk.
A fourth of the way through the neighborhood, the only thing I could not control - the weather - put a glitch in my plans.
RAIN!!
Rain might sound like no big deal to you, but I was put out! This meant my clothes were soaked, and my hair would be a big messy frizz for work. I would be delayed for all my well made plans.... and I was cold. Bah hum bug!
As I was walking/dragging Wyatt around the neighborhood in a hurry, I walked past another "regular" walker in the mornings. This salt and pepper haired lady always has a smile on her face. To be honest, I was surprised to see her out in the rain, even with an umbrella. Still, her spirit seemed to be the usual peppy attitude I've become accustomed too.
Grinning widely to greet me, she offered her usual 'good morning'.
I dittoed, then said, "I don't think I would have come out if I knew it was going to rain!".
She smiled a smile that seemed to indicate that our wisdom levels were as different as our generations.
"Just run between the drops" she said with a wink as she walked by to complete her lap around the neighborhood.
Run between the drops......
Enter Liz's Imagination Land....
Suddenly all the drops were florescent colored, so they could be easily seen. I had super, matrix-like reflexes and I twisted and turned in inhuman like ways to avoid the drops. Each drop that grazed my skin was like a war wound on a video game. Attacking back I would super man jump in the air and flip in dramatic ways to not only put on show for all the bystanders who "awwed" at my powerful abilities, but to also fight against nature and show her who was boss.
Imagination land got old as the rain in real life began to pour down on my supposed to be dry head.
I deemed her advice of 'running between the drops' impossible for my mere human existence.
What's interesting, is that once I realized that such a thing was impossible, I began to loosen up. I relaxed into the rain, started to drag Wyatt less and took my time a little more. I was a little chilled, but not too bad. My hair would be frizzy, but who really cared? Being reactive to the weather is as silly as thinking someone could really run between drops of rain.
It's not possible to do a lot of things. It's not possible for everyone to like us, to never make a mistake, to be perfect or to always look and feel your best. Not possible to always win. Once we can define what is possible and what's not, then we can get on with living. Try not to be reactive to things that are thrown at you that you can not control. Rather, sat your mood at the beginning of each day and vow to not let that which is impossible for you to conquer have the power to change you.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
The Little Tree that Could
Shane and I spent Labor Day ... well, laboring. Our front yard has been in desperate need of some life, ever since Georgia lost a "should have won" football game last year and Shane decided it was time to rip up all the "barely alive" bushes in our drought stricken yard. A project that needed to be done, but anger management left our yard with ... holes and dirt. So, we camped out at Lowes and began weeding, digging and planting this weekend.
A year or so ago, a friend of ours was going to throw away a potted Crepe Myrtle. He hadn't gotten around to planting the tree, and the dying leaves and roots coming out all over the pot made it clear the tree didn't have long. When we heard he was going to throw it out, Shane drove to his house to rescue the little tree from a premature death (maybe that cancels out all the plants I forgot to water over the years).
The truth was that Shane and I had no place in our yard at the time to plant the sick tree, but we couldn't kill it with out a chance. So, Shane dug a hole on our property line beside our house. We put the little guy in the ground, gave him some love and left him there to fight for life. Because it's on the side of our house that we don't frequent much, "the little tree that could" was left to it's own devices because we... well, ... forgot about it.
Over the last year, whenever we do visit that part of the unseen yard, we were so surprised and thrilled to see the tree was flourishing! It was healthy, seemingly happy, and growing BIG! This labor day, we decided it was time for the strong tree to move it's home. Now that we have more space in our front yard (let's hope Georgia doesn't lose much this season), the Crepe Myrtle had room to grow bigger in a place where all could enjoy his beauty!
After weeding, pulling up old roots, throwing out bricks and plastic bottles that were buried beneath the soil (thanks builders) and replacing the red clay with healthy soil and compost, we were ready to move the tree. Shane gingerly dug into the Earth in a wide circle around the tree. He dug deep, cutting the roots as he went. We both carried/drug the tree to it's new home and began planting it's broken roots.
"It looks sick" Shane commented.
"What do you mean?" I said without looking up from the planting.
"Look," he pointed. "The leaves are drooping already from the move."
"Oh, well, it's just gone through a trauma. It will be OK in the end."
I said this comment, really in attempts to make Shane feel better. But, the longer I looked at the tree, I became keenly aware of what a trauma it had just gone through. Having started off in a pot that was too small for his roots, the tree was moved and planted in a healthy spot. The tree grew and grew in the dirt that was big enough for his roots. Then, out of nowhere, these humans come and tear the soil and break the roots. Then drag it to a place that does not feel like home.
What the tree can't know, of course, is that we had only it's best interests in mind. We did not move the tree to be mean or hurtful. We were not trying to "teach it a lesson". There was a better spot for it to achieve it's full purpose and Shane and I moved the little life. I wish the tree could know that.
Recently, my colleagues and I were laid off from the hospital I worked for part time. We were happy there and comfortable in our planted spot. I felt like we were growing. Then all of sudden the powers that be came and chopped up our roots and left us to our own devices to find a place to replant. I was lucky that I had a hole in the world that was well fertilized, waiting for me to slide right in. It has been harder for others to find work and readjust.
Just like the tree, God plucks us from a place of comfort at times. We feel rejected, hurt, angry, confused and many more negative emotions. The danger is assuming it is "bad" just because it feels bad. When truly God intends for our move to be for good. God intends for you to be in a place to grow, flourish and have a spot to shine in His world. Just like the tree doesn't have the capability of understanding our intentions, we don't have the capability to always understand God's. Feeling the pain, allowing ourselves to not become stuck and focusing on the fact that God truly is good, will allow us to grow bigger and stronger in the place where we are planted. And sometimes we even have to chant, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can" in order to keep moving.
A year or so ago, a friend of ours was going to throw away a potted Crepe Myrtle. He hadn't gotten around to planting the tree, and the dying leaves and roots coming out all over the pot made it clear the tree didn't have long. When we heard he was going to throw it out, Shane drove to his house to rescue the little tree from a premature death (maybe that cancels out all the plants I forgot to water over the years).
The truth was that Shane and I had no place in our yard at the time to plant the sick tree, but we couldn't kill it with out a chance. So, Shane dug a hole on our property line beside our house. We put the little guy in the ground, gave him some love and left him there to fight for life. Because it's on the side of our house that we don't frequent much, "the little tree that could" was left to it's own devices because we... well, ... forgot about it.
Over the last year, whenever we do visit that part of the unseen yard, we were so surprised and thrilled to see the tree was flourishing! It was healthy, seemingly happy, and growing BIG! This labor day, we decided it was time for the strong tree to move it's home. Now that we have more space in our front yard (let's hope Georgia doesn't lose much this season), the Crepe Myrtle had room to grow bigger in a place where all could enjoy his beauty!
After weeding, pulling up old roots, throwing out bricks and plastic bottles that were buried beneath the soil (thanks builders) and replacing the red clay with healthy soil and compost, we were ready to move the tree. Shane gingerly dug into the Earth in a wide circle around the tree. He dug deep, cutting the roots as he went. We both carried/drug the tree to it's new home and began planting it's broken roots.
"It looks sick" Shane commented.
"What do you mean?" I said without looking up from the planting.
"Look," he pointed. "The leaves are drooping already from the move."
"Oh, well, it's just gone through a trauma. It will be OK in the end."
I said this comment, really in attempts to make Shane feel better. But, the longer I looked at the tree, I became keenly aware of what a trauma it had just gone through. Having started off in a pot that was too small for his roots, the tree was moved and planted in a healthy spot. The tree grew and grew in the dirt that was big enough for his roots. Then, out of nowhere, these humans come and tear the soil and break the roots. Then drag it to a place that does not feel like home.
What the tree can't know, of course, is that we had only it's best interests in mind. We did not move the tree to be mean or hurtful. We were not trying to "teach it a lesson". There was a better spot for it to achieve it's full purpose and Shane and I moved the little life. I wish the tree could know that.
Recently, my colleagues and I were laid off from the hospital I worked for part time. We were happy there and comfortable in our planted spot. I felt like we were growing. Then all of sudden the powers that be came and chopped up our roots and left us to our own devices to find a place to replant. I was lucky that I had a hole in the world that was well fertilized, waiting for me to slide right in. It has been harder for others to find work and readjust.
Just like the tree, God plucks us from a place of comfort at times. We feel rejected, hurt, angry, confused and many more negative emotions. The danger is assuming it is "bad" just because it feels bad. When truly God intends for our move to be for good. God intends for you to be in a place to grow, flourish and have a spot to shine in His world. Just like the tree doesn't have the capability of understanding our intentions, we don't have the capability to always understand God's. Feeling the pain, allowing ourselves to not become stuck and focusing on the fact that God truly is good, will allow us to grow bigger and stronger in the place where we are planted. And sometimes we even have to chant, "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can" in order to keep moving.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
CRAP!
I have a confession:
I love walking our dog, Wyatt (this is not the confession part). It's one of my very favorite ways to spend the morning or end the day is on a walk with my furry pal.
Occasionally we will go to a park or green way to beat the monotony of the neighborhood. I love walking amongst my fellow dog lovers. Plus, I really like the cute little "pooper scooper" bags at strategically placed trashcans along the walk.
(I've always liked accessories!)
A while back Shane and I noticed that we never take our own bag out with us to clean up Wyatt's ... well, waste... on our walks in the neighborhood. No one posted the cute little signs with handy scoops in our neighborhood, so it never occurred to me to take my own! (the nerve...)
But, none the less, we committed to be better neighbors and more conscientious of our responsibility (aka: our crap!).
After the decision was made, the next step was to actually remember to grab the bag! Too many times Wyatt and I would be on the other side of the neighborhood when I would see signs that #2 was on the way (you know the "crab walk" and spinning in enough circles to make a merry-go-round dizzy) and then PLOP... I'm embarrassed to admit some of the words that escaped my mouth at these moments when I realized our crap was on display in the neighborhood with no tool to scoop it up without notice. I could feel the eyes of neighbors, that must be on the other side of the windows, casting voodoo on me and my dog!
Eventually the walks became crappy... because I felt like crap for not cleaning up the crap!
A plan was made to keep the plastic bags with the leash so we would always be prepared!
Now that I have the bag with me for every walk, I've noticed the enjoyment is coming back. When Wyatt does what is natural, there is no ill energy, only a pause to pick up the poo, and off we go to chase rabbits or smell fire hydrants. The way the walks with dogs should be!
But, something else started to happen now that I have this bag full of poop. Now, when I walk by cigarette butts,water bottles, or other liter, I have room to pick it up and add it to our crap!
Little by little I started understanding that I can't help with the crap of the world, or my neighbor's crap, unless I first take responsibility for my own crap! Then, when I focus on what I need to do, I have more room to help others!
If you are focused on other's crap, turn your attention to how you can clean up your own. You'll be amazed at how this frees you to then help others in ways you couldn't (or didn't have the tools for!) before.
I love walking our dog, Wyatt (this is not the confession part). It's one of my very favorite ways to spend the morning or end the day is on a walk with my furry pal.
Occasionally we will go to a park or green way to beat the monotony of the neighborhood. I love walking amongst my fellow dog lovers. Plus, I really like the cute little "pooper scooper" bags at strategically placed trashcans along the walk.
(I've always liked accessories!)
A while back Shane and I noticed that we never take our own bag out with us to clean up Wyatt's ... well, waste... on our walks in the neighborhood. No one posted the cute little signs with handy scoops in our neighborhood, so it never occurred to me to take my own! (the nerve...)
But, none the less, we committed to be better neighbors and more conscientious of our responsibility (aka: our crap!).
After the decision was made, the next step was to actually remember to grab the bag! Too many times Wyatt and I would be on the other side of the neighborhood when I would see signs that #2 was on the way (you know the "crab walk" and spinning in enough circles to make a merry-go-round dizzy) and then PLOP... I'm embarrassed to admit some of the words that escaped my mouth at these moments when I realized our crap was on display in the neighborhood with no tool to scoop it up without notice. I could feel the eyes of neighbors, that must be on the other side of the windows, casting voodoo on me and my dog!
Eventually the walks became crappy... because I felt like crap for not cleaning up the crap!
A plan was made to keep the plastic bags with the leash so we would always be prepared!
Now that I have the bag with me for every walk, I've noticed the enjoyment is coming back. When Wyatt does what is natural, there is no ill energy, only a pause to pick up the poo, and off we go to chase rabbits or smell fire hydrants. The way the walks with dogs should be!
But, something else started to happen now that I have this bag full of poop. Now, when I walk by cigarette butts,water bottles, or other liter, I have room to pick it up and add it to our crap!
Little by little I started understanding that I can't help with the crap of the world, or my neighbor's crap, unless I first take responsibility for my own crap! Then, when I focus on what I need to do, I have more room to help others!
If you are focused on other's crap, turn your attention to how you can clean up your own. You'll be amazed at how this frees you to then help others in ways you couldn't (or didn't have the tools for!) before.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Be Brave
"Do one thing every day that scares you" Eleanor Roosevelt
I recently heard about a blogger's challenge, inspired by Eleanor Roosevelt's words found on a greeting card in a local arts supplies store. This blogger vowed, after feeling moved and further reflecting on this quote, to do one thing every day that scared her. She received much response from this commitment and decided to name her quest: The Be Brave Project.
I was so intrigued by this project and also felt the shift in my spirit to challenge myself to take on this adventure. Will I do it everyday? Don't think so. But, I do think it's a worthy goal... mainly because that which we fear often can propel us to another, more meaningful state. The only thing that blocks us is our fear.
Think of what represents bravery to you. What are some times in your life when you felt brave?
Was it when you had your first child?
When you told the boss you were leaving?
When you sky dived?
When you ended a negative relationship?
Joined the military? Started a new project?
Whatever it was, out of all the times you can remember being brave, were any of those times absent of fear?
For most of our experiences, the times when we remember being the most brave are also the times we were most afraid.
Yet, when we are afraid, we feel like we just can't do anything!
Remember that fear is the shadow cast beside us as we walk. As long as we are moving, we are being courageous. When we become still and lifeless, like our shadow, we are encompassing fear, not embracing our bravery.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Long Time no Blog
It's been a while...
I feel like I am starting a conversation with an old friend. Except, should this blog be a live person, I would begin the conversation with my usual defense - humor. I'd say, "Hi Stranger!" to this person who likely new me inside and out. Or my personal favorite, "Long time no talk". To which there would be a chuckle and we would move on with our dialogue as if there had never been any time apart. The way true friends do, we would catch up as if we never skipped a beat.
The truth is that I have wanted to get back into blogging for quite some time. I wish I could say that I took some grand sabbatical to take care of myself and reconnect with my spirit and God in deep meditation and prayer. That would be an incredible excuse for the almost four month delay in entries.
No such deep journey into my soul has occured over the last four months. In fact, due to my busy schedule (don't feel too sorry for me - I work hard and play hard) I have ignored my blogging (and changing my air filters, going to gym and was late on more than one bill if you must know).
What happened?
One day I am checking my blog religiously, am obsessive about my bill payments and had an immaculately clean house (well, maybe not immaculately clean). Four months later I have dusty vents, a late payment and no participation into one of my favorite past times.
What's worse is that I decided I wanted to get back into blogging on my birthday. That was June 12 and yes, I realize it's almost two months later.
Why didn't I just sit down that instant and do what I wanted to do? Say what I wanted to say?
Oh, it hasn't been a lack of words... you didn't think that did you? I have had plenty to say. And those that love me best would like nothing more than for me to say it to this keyboard again.... if you know what I mean.
No lack of thoughts... but, I have had this feeling that I have to begin again in a GRAND, Earth shattering, soul moving, "changed my life" kind of way.
You know how it is when it's been a while, just any old entrance will not do.
My high school reunion is this month. It's been ten years since we all were last together in the same room. Just any outfit out of the closet will not do. Stained yellow teeth will not suffice. Roots three inches long will not be acceptable! I have all but called Extreme Makeover to consider me for the next show.
Ridiculous really. I haven't blogged, not because I didn't have anything to say, but because I thought my words would not be good enough to begin again after all this time.
Plus all those other worries: Could I keep up with it? Have I lost my creativity? Did I want to expose myself after all this time? Would my excuses/apologies be enough? Would people still accept me?
That's just the tip of the ice burg of anxiety I had about beginning to blog again.
But, not unlike what we do everyday. We have a family member or friend we just lost touch with and we miss them dearly. We think about them, pray for them and never pick up the phone. WHY? Well... fear and shame I suppose. Those poisonous qualities that leave us pause for too long.
This week ignore thinking up excuses or refuse to let fear stand in your way. Reconnect with something or someone you love. It matters less about how you look, what you say or how good you are at it. What' s most important is that you show up and give it a chance.
I feel like I am starting a conversation with an old friend. Except, should this blog be a live person, I would begin the conversation with my usual defense - humor. I'd say, "Hi Stranger!" to this person who likely new me inside and out. Or my personal favorite, "Long time no talk". To which there would be a chuckle and we would move on with our dialogue as if there had never been any time apart. The way true friends do, we would catch up as if we never skipped a beat.
The truth is that I have wanted to get back into blogging for quite some time. I wish I could say that I took some grand sabbatical to take care of myself and reconnect with my spirit and God in deep meditation and prayer. That would be an incredible excuse for the almost four month delay in entries.
No such deep journey into my soul has occured over the last four months. In fact, due to my busy schedule (don't feel too sorry for me - I work hard and play hard) I have ignored my blogging (and changing my air filters, going to gym and was late on more than one bill if you must know).
What happened?
One day I am checking my blog religiously, am obsessive about my bill payments and had an immaculately clean house (well, maybe not immaculately clean). Four months later I have dusty vents, a late payment and no participation into one of my favorite past times.
What's worse is that I decided I wanted to get back into blogging on my birthday. That was June 12 and yes, I realize it's almost two months later.
Why didn't I just sit down that instant and do what I wanted to do? Say what I wanted to say?
Oh, it hasn't been a lack of words... you didn't think that did you? I have had plenty to say. And those that love me best would like nothing more than for me to say it to this keyboard again.... if you know what I mean.
No lack of thoughts... but, I have had this feeling that I have to begin again in a GRAND, Earth shattering, soul moving, "changed my life" kind of way.
You know how it is when it's been a while, just any old entrance will not do.
My high school reunion is this month. It's been ten years since we all were last together in the same room. Just any outfit out of the closet will not do. Stained yellow teeth will not suffice. Roots three inches long will not be acceptable! I have all but called Extreme Makeover to consider me for the next show.
Ridiculous really. I haven't blogged, not because I didn't have anything to say, but because I thought my words would not be good enough to begin again after all this time.
Plus all those other worries: Could I keep up with it? Have I lost my creativity? Did I want to expose myself after all this time? Would my excuses/apologies be enough? Would people still accept me?
That's just the tip of the ice burg of anxiety I had about beginning to blog again.
But, not unlike what we do everyday. We have a family member or friend we just lost touch with and we miss them dearly. We think about them, pray for them and never pick up the phone. WHY? Well... fear and shame I suppose. Those poisonous qualities that leave us pause for too long.
This week ignore thinking up excuses or refuse to let fear stand in your way. Reconnect with something or someone you love. It matters less about how you look, what you say or how good you are at it. What' s most important is that you show up and give it a chance.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Revisiting the Easter Story
Happy Easter!
Easter came early this year. The earliest it has been for a number of years. From what I hear, it's the earliest it will be for a number of years more.
I remembered the "true meaning" of Easter. Of course, I did.
I also remembered the laundry, the floors that needed to be swept, the lunch that needed to be prepared, the phone calls wishing others a "Happy Easter", a business call and to write on my "To Do" list for next week: Bring out the linens and the whites!
There.... back to Easter.
I opened up my Bible a few moments ago.... yes, check the time of the post .... I hate to admit that the most important part of today came the latest.
I know why we celebrate Easter. Memorized, like the pledge of allegiance, or brushing my teeth half asleep in the morning. I know it all too well that I have forgotten to attach meaning to it at all.
Funny how we do that. We know stories so well we recite them and forget the emotion behind the event. We know people so well we could predict their move before they have a chance to think it on their own...yet, our familiar cadence often produces a stale environment where little love and passion grows. We go through the motions... but, often we are bad actors.
We have to revisit our stories in order to remember the true meaning. In order to feel the spark and experience the gravitating force that slams our hearts back into what is really real.... and not just a memorized story line portraying something that was once real.
Revisit those things that are important to you today... this week... this month. Tell stories with your partner about the times you met and what made the spark ignite from the first moment. Share with others the time you felt a calling or were moved to make a major decision in your life. Even the painful parts of our past hold energy that has propelled us to where we are today. Revisit, relive and give rebirth to yourself today.
Remember the Easter story is in itself a story about the true potential of miracles and the power of kept promises. The same God that rose Jesus from the grave can also preform miracles in you.
Don't let the Easter story, or your own story, go stale. Re-read it and rise with new energy today.
Easter came early this year. The earliest it has been for a number of years. From what I hear, it's the earliest it will be for a number of years more.
I remembered the "true meaning" of Easter. Of course, I did.
I also remembered the laundry, the floors that needed to be swept, the lunch that needed to be prepared, the phone calls wishing others a "Happy Easter", a business call and to write on my "To Do" list for next week: Bring out the linens and the whites!
There.... back to Easter.
I opened up my Bible a few moments ago.... yes, check the time of the post .... I hate to admit that the most important part of today came the latest.
I know why we celebrate Easter. Memorized, like the pledge of allegiance, or brushing my teeth half asleep in the morning. I know it all too well that I have forgotten to attach meaning to it at all.
Funny how we do that. We know stories so well we recite them and forget the emotion behind the event. We know people so well we could predict their move before they have a chance to think it on their own...yet, our familiar cadence often produces a stale environment where little love and passion grows. We go through the motions... but, often we are bad actors.
We have to revisit our stories in order to remember the true meaning. In order to feel the spark and experience the gravitating force that slams our hearts back into what is really real.... and not just a memorized story line portraying something that was once real.
Revisit those things that are important to you today... this week... this month. Tell stories with your partner about the times you met and what made the spark ignite from the first moment. Share with others the time you felt a calling or were moved to make a major decision in your life. Even the painful parts of our past hold energy that has propelled us to where we are today. Revisit, relive and give rebirth to yourself today.
Remember the Easter story is in itself a story about the true potential of miracles and the power of kept promises. The same God that rose Jesus from the grave can also preform miracles in you.
Don't let the Easter story, or your own story, go stale. Re-read it and rise with new energy today.
Monday, March 17, 2008
The recipe for luck.
Do you believe in luck?
I often question this. Do we bring about our own good fortune, or is there really a random field of energy that graces a few?
I looked up the four leaf clover this morning. I knew it represented luck, but could not remember what the leaves represented.
According to legend, each leaf represents something.
The first is hope, the second is faith, third is love and fourth represents happiness.
Hope, Faith, Love and Happiness -
Not one of the leaves represents "luck". But, it seems to me that this legend is indicating that the mixture of one's hope, faith, love and happiness is the perfect recipe for luck.
So, like other mysteries in life, I think that if we turn our attention away from "luck" and focus on the ingredients that produce good fortune, we can truly experience joy.
Are you hopeful? Faithful? Loving? Are you doing all that you can to bring happiness into your life and others? Find the leaf that is weakest for you and begin practicing it this week.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Take down the dulcimer.
"Today, like every other day, we wake up empty
and frightened. Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down the dulcimer.
There are a thousand ways to kneel and kiss the ground.
Let the beauty we love be what we do."
I found this excerpt in the Spirituality And Health magazine for this quarter. Kabir Helminski and Lida Saedian translated these words and many more from "a medieval Islamic ascetic" named Rumi, who is known by many as a philosopher and spiritual guru.
I read this quote over and over again. In the way you are initially attracted to something, these words danced on the page as I sat propped up in the bed last night. I awoke this morning with it on my mind, too.
At first it was because I had no idea what the word "dulcimer" meant. Webster informed me that it was a stringed instrument.
Ahh... now the quote makes sense to my simple brain.
Why does he say we are empty and frightened? And then imply this is a daily feeling?
My interpretation of these words are this:
There are so many ways to enjoy life and and our walk in this world. If we continue to only watch and read about the things we love, and never actually experience it, we will be empty for the rest of this life. The fear lies in our own self conscious behaviors that don't allow us to actually do what we love. We watch sports, but do we throw the football in the yard? I love music, but attempt to play the piano - I'm too afraid - or not enough time.
This week do what Rumi suggests..... put down the books, walk away from the TV and experience your beauty. Then, you will have a full life.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Back in the Saddle.
"I'm back in the saddle again!"
"I'm back!"
Too bad I don't know any of the other words to that song. Really too bad for those that live around me. I can sing (aka yell) and dance (aka jump around with my air guitar and scrunched up nose) to the same two lyrics of a song all day.
"I'm back in the saddle again!" I think my cat actually rolled her eyes at this outburst.
The angel who adorns brown cotton clothes, a smile and an electronic clip board blessed me my new computer!! It's a week of celebration!
My old buddy is back. My fingers can dance on the keyboard and document my internal dialogue. Today is a good day.
Lately I have noticed more smiles all around me. Maybe it's the sunshine that stays around a little longer, or the rain in my neck of the woods that is so needed. The hint of spring on the horizon, or the tiny green leaves emerging from the ground. Whatever it is, people seem to be rejoicing that their treasures have returned back to them. Never lost, but gone long enough for us to forget about the joy they bring.
In all my excitement of the computer, I still feel the familiar twinge of pain in my chest.
The unsettling in my stomach.
Who or what is the culprit of this nagging sensation that draws me out rock band mode?
Guilt. For no particular reason, I suppose. Not a logical one anyway.
I have been given very much in this life. More than my share. So, when something more is given to me I feel a small sting of doubt, "Do I deserve this?". What about those who are given little?
And here is where we begin walking the very fine line.
Lean too much one way and you risk living a life where you ignore all of your blessings and turn your back on your own needs. You constantly turn away from the gifts of love (be it relational or material) and abandon what God deemed good for you because you can not accept that you are worthy of abundance. Therefore you lack... not just materially, but spiritually. Ever felt like you give and give to someone and they are not grateful? We do it to God everyday when we ignore our own gifts.
Lean too much the other side and you become a slave to acquiring more in order to feed the craving. Getting more things means requiring a status in this world. The jolt of excitement fades away after each new thing. So, you are always wanting. Rarely grateful, and instead believing you have fallen victim to the perception that whatever blessing you receive will never be enough to fill your tank. On both sides of this line, our blessings go unnoticed eventually. God goes unnoticed eventually.
They key to any balancing act is to focus on one thing. In yoga, it's the spot on the floor where my eyes become fixed. The running back keeps his eyes glued to the touchdown mark, just as the defensive team is glued to the quarter back (did I actually make a football comparison?). The dancer "spots" a part of the room before she twirls around as to not get dizzy. Even when I was learning to drive, I was instructed to keep my eyes in my lane and not the surrounding traffic.
Remember, keep your eyes focused on your God, on the truths for your spirituality and the real meaning of life. This is the space where in celebration or grief, you never loose site of the giver of all things and you can truly experience joy.
"I'm back!"
"I'm back!"
Too bad I don't know any of the other words to that song. Really too bad for those that live around me. I can sing (aka yell) and dance (aka jump around with my air guitar and scrunched up nose) to the same two lyrics of a song all day.
"I'm back in the saddle again!" I think my cat actually rolled her eyes at this outburst.
The angel who adorns brown cotton clothes, a smile and an electronic clip board blessed me my new computer!! It's a week of celebration!
My old buddy is back. My fingers can dance on the keyboard and document my internal dialogue. Today is a good day.
Lately I have noticed more smiles all around me. Maybe it's the sunshine that stays around a little longer, or the rain in my neck of the woods that is so needed. The hint of spring on the horizon, or the tiny green leaves emerging from the ground. Whatever it is, people seem to be rejoicing that their treasures have returned back to them. Never lost, but gone long enough for us to forget about the joy they bring.
In all my excitement of the computer, I still feel the familiar twinge of pain in my chest.
The unsettling in my stomach.
Who or what is the culprit of this nagging sensation that draws me out rock band mode?
Guilt. For no particular reason, I suppose. Not a logical one anyway.
I have been given very much in this life. More than my share. So, when something more is given to me I feel a small sting of doubt, "Do I deserve this?". What about those who are given little?
And here is where we begin walking the very fine line.
Lean too much one way and you risk living a life where you ignore all of your blessings and turn your back on your own needs. You constantly turn away from the gifts of love (be it relational or material) and abandon what God deemed good for you because you can not accept that you are worthy of abundance. Therefore you lack... not just materially, but spiritually. Ever felt like you give and give to someone and they are not grateful? We do it to God everyday when we ignore our own gifts.
Lean too much the other side and you become a slave to acquiring more in order to feed the craving. Getting more things means requiring a status in this world. The jolt of excitement fades away after each new thing. So, you are always wanting. Rarely grateful, and instead believing you have fallen victim to the perception that whatever blessing you receive will never be enough to fill your tank. On both sides of this line, our blessings go unnoticed eventually. God goes unnoticed eventually.
They key to any balancing act is to focus on one thing. In yoga, it's the spot on the floor where my eyes become fixed. The running back keeps his eyes glued to the touchdown mark, just as the defensive team is glued to the quarter back (did I actually make a football comparison?). The dancer "spots" a part of the room before she twirls around as to not get dizzy. Even when I was learning to drive, I was instructed to keep my eyes in my lane and not the surrounding traffic.
Remember, keep your eyes focused on your God, on the truths for your spirituality and the real meaning of life. This is the space where in celebration or grief, you never loose site of the giver of all things and you can truly experience joy.
"I'm back!"
Monday, February 25, 2008
Snooty Therapist Seeks Forgiveness From Kind Handyman
Shane and I are having some work done on our back porch. The beautiful screened in porch has always adorned out door carpet. For most, this may be acceptable, but with a very active (and sometimes muddy) dog that loves to shed, the carpet is hard to keep clean. So, we sought out some extra help in laying tile down on our back porch to easier clean our little one's messes.
If you have ever had any home improvement projects interrupt your daily routine, you understand the frustrations that come in the middle of improving your home. Fortunately, the work was being done outside, so there wasn't much construction inside the house.
A typical planner, I have my morning's activities planned down to the minute. I know how long it will take me to walk the dog, eat breakfast, etc. This was one of those mornings.
I had just arrived home from working out and knew I had approximately 45 minutes to get ready for work. Noticing a new truck at the front of the house, I peeked my head around back to confirm this stranger was indeed working on our porch and not stealing our things.
When I came around the corner, I noticed an older man with salt and pepper hair, smoking a cigarette and appearing highly anxious.
"Ma'am" he said in a southern drawl, "I don't mean to be rude, but I am scared to death of your dog."
As I put the dog up in his crate, I listened to the mans story of being bitten by a dog similar to this. He then apologized for the inconvenience.
"No problem" I reassured him, glancing at my watch. Thirty minutes to go, I needed to start getting ready.
But, he kept going, "I'm going to leave the house soon and I can't let him out of his crate. Can someone else do it?"
"I'll ask my husband" I said, feeling slightly annoyed at the disruption of my day. "Anything else?"
"Yeah." he explained, "I need a check."
"A check?" I asked.
"For how much? For what? I give it to you?" I hammered him with questions. The truth is that I had never met this man. I trusted the company, but giving a check for an unknown amount to a stranger struck me as odd. And didn't he know I was down to 28 minutes to get ready?
"I don't know. You'll have to ask the boss man. He asked that I get a check from you." he said politely.
I went inside to call my husband with no luck. I knew it was a busy day at Shane's work, so I thought I would take a shower and try again before I left. With the water running, I began to undress and test out the water, when I heard the door bell ring.
"What?" I said allowed to the cats while I threw my clothes back on.
I stomped to the door. "Yes?" I asked the man standing there.
"Did you get the check?" he said nicely. "It's time for me to leave and the boss man said to take a check."
I convinced him to give me a minute more and the man said he would finish up some projects. I tried to call Shane again and left another message. I started the water again and began to undress when I heard "ding dong" of the doorbell.
"You have got to be kidding me!" I said again to the cats, this time glancing at the clock. I only had fifteen minutes before I had to leave and I had yet to shower!
I opened the door with a mean face. "Sorry ma'am" the gentleman said, "But, I really have to go. Do you have the check?"
I deep breathed, stomped in the house, and felt like pulling my hair out. I finally got in touch with Shane, who informed me that he was suppose to leave a check earlier. It made sense now, but in my rush I shoved the check at the man and closed the door with barely a "bye".
If you have ever had any home improvement projects interrupt your daily routine, you understand the frustrations that come in the middle of improving your home. Fortunately, the work was being done outside, so there wasn't much construction inside the house.
A typical planner, I have my morning's activities planned down to the minute. I know how long it will take me to walk the dog, eat breakfast, etc. This was one of those mornings.
I had just arrived home from working out and knew I had approximately 45 minutes to get ready for work. Noticing a new truck at the front of the house, I peeked my head around back to confirm this stranger was indeed working on our porch and not stealing our things.
When I came around the corner, I noticed an older man with salt and pepper hair, smoking a cigarette and appearing highly anxious.
"Ma'am" he said in a southern drawl, "I don't mean to be rude, but I am scared to death of your dog."
As I put the dog up in his crate, I listened to the mans story of being bitten by a dog similar to this. He then apologized for the inconvenience.
"No problem" I reassured him, glancing at my watch. Thirty minutes to go, I needed to start getting ready.
But, he kept going, "I'm going to leave the house soon and I can't let him out of his crate. Can someone else do it?"
"I'll ask my husband" I said, feeling slightly annoyed at the disruption of my day. "Anything else?"
"Yeah." he explained, "I need a check."
"A check?" I asked.
"For how much? For what? I give it to you?" I hammered him with questions. The truth is that I had never met this man. I trusted the company, but giving a check for an unknown amount to a stranger struck me as odd. And didn't he know I was down to 28 minutes to get ready?
"I don't know. You'll have to ask the boss man. He asked that I get a check from you." he said politely.
I went inside to call my husband with no luck. I knew it was a busy day at Shane's work, so I thought I would take a shower and try again before I left. With the water running, I began to undress and test out the water, when I heard the door bell ring.
"What?" I said allowed to the cats while I threw my clothes back on.
I stomped to the door. "Yes?" I asked the man standing there.
"Did you get the check?" he said nicely. "It's time for me to leave and the boss man said to take a check."
I convinced him to give me a minute more and the man said he would finish up some projects. I tried to call Shane again and left another message. I started the water again and began to undress when I heard "ding dong" of the doorbell.
"You have got to be kidding me!" I said again to the cats, this time glancing at the clock. I only had fifteen minutes before I had to leave and I had yet to shower!
I opened the door with a mean face. "Sorry ma'am" the gentleman said, "But, I really have to go. Do you have the check?"
I deep breathed, stomped in the house, and felt like pulling my hair out. I finally got in touch with Shane, who informed me that he was suppose to leave a check earlier. It made sense now, but in my rush I shoved the check at the man and closed the door with barely a "bye".
I was incredibly irritated. I jumped in the shower, threw on some clothes and called the office to let them know I was running 10 minutes late.
"Don't rush, honey!" the administrative assistant informed me. "Your client called and he is running 15 minutes late, so you'll have plenty of time."
The rest of my day I could not shake the feeling of frustration. No matter what I did, I could not stop replaying the interactions with this man out of my head. That's when I figured out what I was feeling: not frustration, but guilt.
I was only thinking about one thing that morning: my plans, my time schedule, my business, and me. The man was helping me. I never even thanked him for the work he was doing on my porch. Instead, I treated him like a nuisance when he was only doing his job.
I felt terrible.
Not to mention, the fact that my client was running late, too.
Was that a test?
Did God put that obstacle in my path, knowing it would not negatively effect my client, only to see if I could go beyond my own selfish path to respond patiently to a kind, polite man who was only doing his job?
If it was a test - I failed.
The next morning I peeked outside to saw the same man doing work on the porch. Remembering his fear of dogs, I went outside and helped put Wyatt in the crate. But, a kind gesture was not enough. I apologized forthright for my nasty attitude. The typical southern gentleman, he told me not to mention it. But, it deserved mentioning.
That day I learned that it's not enough to just "patch things up" as a passive apology. When you've done something wrong, you must say the words and ask for forgiveness. Test or no test, at least an apology sets me back on the right path.
“Watch your thoughts, for they become words.
Watch your words, for they become actions.
Watch your actions, for they become habits.
Watch your habits, for they become character.
Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”
Author Unknown
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Choices
I have not been able to blog as much as I would like lately. My computer has finally decided to kick the bucket, after a slow dying process.
Originally the C key would not work. Which was fine and dandy, except of course when you had to spell anything with a C in it. Then slowly all the other keys began to fade. Normally my disposition is one that is slow to anger, but I have discovered that my calm demeanor doesn't apply to machines that don't work. I have begun to fantisize about that scene in Office Space... taking the computer out to a big field and wacking it with a baseball bat would feel a little too good right now!
You know when the power goes out and by habit you go all around the house flipping the light switches? And when that still doesn't sink in, you try to use the microwave to heat dinner? The same has been true with me and the computer. I sit down ready to blog, e-mail, or search a site and are slammed with the realization that the computer fixing fairy didn't visit over night! I then go through a series of deep breathing, slamming and grunting.
When things don't go our way, it's hard not to focus on anything else. Particularly when it's something that throws us off our normal routine of living or doing things.
If everything went my way, then life would be perfect.... at least in my eyes.
But, the tinest thing... traffic, a broken computer, juice spilling on my shirt, or being out of pet food can throw me off in a tail spin.
The more I focus on flexibility and remember that I can not (and will not) be in control at all times, the quicker I get right back on track, not letting the speed bump get in my way for long.
I know that happiness is a choice. Pain is inevitable, but you truly must choose to be happy. Allowing small inconviencences to ruin your day, is a way of choosing to be unhappy.
So, how do you turn a frustration into a positive?
You ask yourself, "How can I make the best of the situation?"
For example, my husband travels with his work several long weekends out of the year. It is certainly not "my way" for him to travel. I would rather he always be home, free to spend the weekends with me and around the house. Here's the choice time. I could decide to constantly complain about something that can not be changed at the present and mope around the house while he is gone. But, all of those decisions would bring about unhappiness for me and my husband.
Instead, I choose to make the best of the situation by planning visits with family and friends during the times he is away. I still wish he didn't have to travel, but honestly, I enjoy my time to fellowship with people I love.
What road blocks have you experienced today, or this week, that are attempting to throw you off course? If you are off track, jump back on, by remembering you can choose to look at the situation in any way that helps you see things in a more positive light.
As for me, I have committed to not attempt to work the computer until I have it fixed. There is no reason to bring extra negativity in my life. In the meantime, I will continue with my internal dialogue... instead of typing it out!
Originally the C key would not work. Which was fine and dandy, except of course when you had to spell anything with a C in it. Then slowly all the other keys began to fade. Normally my disposition is one that is slow to anger, but I have discovered that my calm demeanor doesn't apply to machines that don't work. I have begun to fantisize about that scene in Office Space... taking the computer out to a big field and wacking it with a baseball bat would feel a little too good right now!
You know when the power goes out and by habit you go all around the house flipping the light switches? And when that still doesn't sink in, you try to use the microwave to heat dinner? The same has been true with me and the computer. I sit down ready to blog, e-mail, or search a site and are slammed with the realization that the computer fixing fairy didn't visit over night! I then go through a series of deep breathing, slamming and grunting.
When things don't go our way, it's hard not to focus on anything else. Particularly when it's something that throws us off our normal routine of living or doing things.
If everything went my way, then life would be perfect.... at least in my eyes.
But, the tinest thing... traffic, a broken computer, juice spilling on my shirt, or being out of pet food can throw me off in a tail spin.
The more I focus on flexibility and remember that I can not (and will not) be in control at all times, the quicker I get right back on track, not letting the speed bump get in my way for long.
I know that happiness is a choice. Pain is inevitable, but you truly must choose to be happy. Allowing small inconviencences to ruin your day, is a way of choosing to be unhappy.
So, how do you turn a frustration into a positive?
You ask yourself, "How can I make the best of the situation?"
For example, my husband travels with his work several long weekends out of the year. It is certainly not "my way" for him to travel. I would rather he always be home, free to spend the weekends with me and around the house. Here's the choice time. I could decide to constantly complain about something that can not be changed at the present and mope around the house while he is gone. But, all of those decisions would bring about unhappiness for me and my husband.
Instead, I choose to make the best of the situation by planning visits with family and friends during the times he is away. I still wish he didn't have to travel, but honestly, I enjoy my time to fellowship with people I love.
What road blocks have you experienced today, or this week, that are attempting to throw you off course? If you are off track, jump back on, by remembering you can choose to look at the situation in any way that helps you see things in a more positive light.
As for me, I have committed to not attempt to work the computer until I have it fixed. There is no reason to bring extra negativity in my life. In the meantime, I will continue with my internal dialogue... instead of typing it out!
Sunday, February 10, 2008
EMDR
Over the weekend I attended a basic EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) training. EMDR is a therapeutic process that bases it's theological standpoint from the belief that there is no disconnect between the mind and the body. The more I learn about the mind/body connection, the more I am astounded that modern medicine ever functions with one without dealing with the other.
In brief, EMDR allows your brain to heal naturally, like any part of the body. If you have a broken arm, you may go to the doctor to have it set in a cast. Then the body takes over from there and begins to heal itself.
Our brain is, of course, a part of our body. Therefore, our thinking process and memory has the ability to heal itself, once "set" in the right direction. Life experiences leave bumps and bruises on our brain. This effects our memory of the past. And in return, effects how we perceive things in the present and future.
Still with me?
It's a complicated, yet very simple, process.
Through bi-lateral stimulation, (engaging the right and left hemispheres of the brain, typically done by rapid eye movements) the brain takes a trip down memory lane, literally, and re configures the memories. It doesn't change memories, it simply allows you to see things in a "different light" so to speak. Some believe it works similar to REM sleep, in the way we work through issues in our dreams.
If you can not already tell, I find it remarkable and extremely interesting.
So, I signed up for the training.
Throughout out the training I was amazed at the video clips and studies done that show so many people healing from traumatic and/or every day life events that have been "stuck" in a painful and unsettling place in the memory.
Everything was dandy, until the moment I was asked to sit in the chair and be the "client". I had 24 hours before I was going to experience what, according to everyone else, was an "amazing" and "peaceful" experience. I wanted to learn about it... not experience it. Ever heard that saying... "Those that can't, teach"? I'd prefer to teach... not experience.
Sunday morning, as I put on my makeup and brushed my hair, preparing to attend the last day of training. But, my mind was not on what the lecture, rather it was paralyzed with fear at what, if anything, lurked in the confines of my brain that may, or may not, show itself in the days exercise.
I was terrified.
I wanted to throw up.
I even said to my mock therapist, "If we don't have time to get to me, that's OK, because I don't really have anything to work on."
To which she laughed and asked me to sit in the chair (aka doomsday to my mind) and get prepared to be "the client".
And then we began.
For starters, I was a resistant client.
I didn't want to go "there". Even though I didn't know where "there" was. If I had to go there, to heal for some reason, then I probably didn't want to go. So my mind was telling me.
"Relax" her voice told me. "Trust the process" she said what seemed like a million times.
And I did.
I cried and felt pain. In my body. In my heart. I was angry, sad, confused and more.
But, those feelings were incredibly brief. Minutes. Seconds. I felt them and they faded away.
In a moment of pain I heard the unmistaken message from God, "I am here. I am in control. I have never left you. I have been with you in the past, I am with you now, and I will forever be beside you in whatever comes your way."
Then there was peace.
A peace I have felt before, but each time I re-experience it, I feel more whole than the time before.
A complete body experience.
What is there to fear when God is with you?
That is what I took away. If I am afraid of my own mind, how can I face anything else?
Whether or not you ever experience EMDR or not, you can feel that peace I still feel as I write this.
First, you have to be willing to feel. Avoidance will only bring more of the pain. Feel, confront, acknowledge, say, do whatever you know you need to do to "face" the past and regain control of your own mind by letting go of control and allowing it heal itself.
Let God do the rest and you will see the truth that will set you free.
In brief, EMDR allows your brain to heal naturally, like any part of the body. If you have a broken arm, you may go to the doctor to have it set in a cast. Then the body takes over from there and begins to heal itself.
Our brain is, of course, a part of our body. Therefore, our thinking process and memory has the ability to heal itself, once "set" in the right direction. Life experiences leave bumps and bruises on our brain. This effects our memory of the past. And in return, effects how we perceive things in the present and future.
Still with me?
It's a complicated, yet very simple, process.
Through bi-lateral stimulation, (engaging the right and left hemispheres of the brain, typically done by rapid eye movements) the brain takes a trip down memory lane, literally, and re configures the memories. It doesn't change memories, it simply allows you to see things in a "different light" so to speak. Some believe it works similar to REM sleep, in the way we work through issues in our dreams.
If you can not already tell, I find it remarkable and extremely interesting.
So, I signed up for the training.
Throughout out the training I was amazed at the video clips and studies done that show so many people healing from traumatic and/or every day life events that have been "stuck" in a painful and unsettling place in the memory.
Everything was dandy, until the moment I was asked to sit in the chair and be the "client". I had 24 hours before I was going to experience what, according to everyone else, was an "amazing" and "peaceful" experience. I wanted to learn about it... not experience it. Ever heard that saying... "Those that can't, teach"? I'd prefer to teach... not experience.
Sunday morning, as I put on my makeup and brushed my hair, preparing to attend the last day of training. But, my mind was not on what the lecture, rather it was paralyzed with fear at what, if anything, lurked in the confines of my brain that may, or may not, show itself in the days exercise.
I was terrified.
I wanted to throw up.
I even said to my mock therapist, "If we don't have time to get to me, that's OK, because I don't really have anything to work on."
To which she laughed and asked me to sit in the chair (aka doomsday to my mind) and get prepared to be "the client".
And then we began.
For starters, I was a resistant client.
I didn't want to go "there". Even though I didn't know where "there" was. If I had to go there, to heal for some reason, then I probably didn't want to go. So my mind was telling me.
"Relax" her voice told me. "Trust the process" she said what seemed like a million times.
And I did.
I cried and felt pain. In my body. In my heart. I was angry, sad, confused and more.
But, those feelings were incredibly brief. Minutes. Seconds. I felt them and they faded away.
In a moment of pain I heard the unmistaken message from God, "I am here. I am in control. I have never left you. I have been with you in the past, I am with you now, and I will forever be beside you in whatever comes your way."
Then there was peace.
A peace I have felt before, but each time I re-experience it, I feel more whole than the time before.
A complete body experience.
What is there to fear when God is with you?
That is what I took away. If I am afraid of my own mind, how can I face anything else?
Whether or not you ever experience EMDR or not, you can feel that peace I still feel as I write this.
First, you have to be willing to feel. Avoidance will only bring more of the pain. Feel, confront, acknowledge, say, do whatever you know you need to do to "face" the past and regain control of your own mind by letting go of control and allowing it heal itself.
Let God do the rest and you will see the truth that will set you free.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Campaign Promises
Did you hear the joke about the politician?
.... So, a politician recently died. He was a flip flopper, so he hadn't yet decided whether or not he would go to heaven or hell. After attending his own funeral, he was then escorted by Saint Paul to visit heaven. When he arrived he was welcomed at the pearly white gates by beautiful angels playing harps and trumpets.
"This is nice" the politician thought. Attempting to walk further, St. Paul warned, "You can not go in the pearly white gates unless you are prepared to stay."
"On second thought" the politician said, "Perhaps I should visit hell before I make my final decision."
"Very well" said St. Paul and escorted him back to Earth.
The politician was then greeted by a well dressed man in a three piece designer suit. Shaking his hand and patting him on the back, the gentlemen welcomed the politician eagerly. "Much better than that silly white robe" the politician thought.
The well dressed man then showed the politician the way to hell. As they entered the gates, he was amazed to see nothing but green grass. "I'm standing on a golf course!" the politician stated excitedly.
"Well of course you are! We aim to please in hell!"
The politician walked all around hell. He saw men smoking cigars, hot tubs to relax in on every corner and any sport he would ever dream to watch on big screen TVs. After spending a day in hell, the politician felt like he had made up his mind.
He returned to Earth, where he sat in front of his judges.
"Have you decided where you would like to spend eternity?"
"Yes!" the politician said eagerly. "I am happy to support hell and go there for eternity."
"Very well, then." said the judges and the politician was quickly rushed back to hell.
But, this time, there was no green grass, no golf course, and no hot tubs!!
Shocked, the politician cried, "You lied to me!! Where is everything that was promised?"
"Oh" the gentleman said with a smile. "That was just a campaign promise!"
I am hearing the drum the roll in my head!!
One thing we always question, and rightly so with politicians, is if we are being told false promises to only receive a vote. I start to get the uneasy feeling that I am being used around election time. Are we really going to vote on someone based on promises to lure us into the campaign? We have no choice, from what I can tell. We have to put our faith in the canditate we choose and pray that they make the best decisions for our country.
What about you? Do you tell people things they want to hear only to have them "on your side" or to like you?
On this issue, I have definitely been guilty. A "people pleaser" by nature, my one unconscious goal in the past was to have everyone like me. And when I felt the slightest bit of discomfort in a relationship, I would work extra hard to prove to my acquaintance that I was likable and pleasing. I would avoid opportunities to disagree and "followed the pack" to prove how easily I could get along with others. Where did it get me? Extra stress and little self respect. I was trying for the impossible!
I learned that having everyone "like" me is not only impossible, improbable and implausible... but, it wasn't very desirable in the end.
Diversity makes life interesting!
Hearing another's point of view makes debates fun and opens the door for a chance to learn new information and develop relationships.
On this Super Tuesday, practice living an authentic life. Be who you are without apologies. Avoiding molding into what you think others expect. Most importantly, don't make false promises! Say "yes" when you mean "yes" and "no" when you mean "no". This is the key to integrity. Living your life authentically will allow you to respect the autonomy of others. Don't make false promises, show people who you are and stand by your commitments!
.... So, a politician recently died. He was a flip flopper, so he hadn't yet decided whether or not he would go to heaven or hell. After attending his own funeral, he was then escorted by Saint Paul to visit heaven. When he arrived he was welcomed at the pearly white gates by beautiful angels playing harps and trumpets.
"This is nice" the politician thought. Attempting to walk further, St. Paul warned, "You can not go in the pearly white gates unless you are prepared to stay."
"On second thought" the politician said, "Perhaps I should visit hell before I make my final decision."
"Very well" said St. Paul and escorted him back to Earth.
The politician was then greeted by a well dressed man in a three piece designer suit. Shaking his hand and patting him on the back, the gentlemen welcomed the politician eagerly. "Much better than that silly white robe" the politician thought.
The well dressed man then showed the politician the way to hell. As they entered the gates, he was amazed to see nothing but green grass. "I'm standing on a golf course!" the politician stated excitedly.
"Well of course you are! We aim to please in hell!"
The politician walked all around hell. He saw men smoking cigars, hot tubs to relax in on every corner and any sport he would ever dream to watch on big screen TVs. After spending a day in hell, the politician felt like he had made up his mind.
He returned to Earth, where he sat in front of his judges.
"Have you decided where you would like to spend eternity?"
"Yes!" the politician said eagerly. "I am happy to support hell and go there for eternity."
"Very well, then." said the judges and the politician was quickly rushed back to hell.
But, this time, there was no green grass, no golf course, and no hot tubs!!
Shocked, the politician cried, "You lied to me!! Where is everything that was promised?"
"Oh" the gentleman said with a smile. "That was just a campaign promise!"
I am hearing the drum the roll in my head!!
One thing we always question, and rightly so with politicians, is if we are being told false promises to only receive a vote. I start to get the uneasy feeling that I am being used around election time. Are we really going to vote on someone based on promises to lure us into the campaign? We have no choice, from what I can tell. We have to put our faith in the canditate we choose and pray that they make the best decisions for our country.
What about you? Do you tell people things they want to hear only to have them "on your side" or to like you?
On this issue, I have definitely been guilty. A "people pleaser" by nature, my one unconscious goal in the past was to have everyone like me. And when I felt the slightest bit of discomfort in a relationship, I would work extra hard to prove to my acquaintance that I was likable and pleasing. I would avoid opportunities to disagree and "followed the pack" to prove how easily I could get along with others. Where did it get me? Extra stress and little self respect. I was trying for the impossible!
I learned that having everyone "like" me is not only impossible, improbable and implausible... but, it wasn't very desirable in the end.
Diversity makes life interesting!
Hearing another's point of view makes debates fun and opens the door for a chance to learn new information and develop relationships.
On this Super Tuesday, practice living an authentic life. Be who you are without apologies. Avoiding molding into what you think others expect. Most importantly, don't make false promises! Say "yes" when you mean "yes" and "no" when you mean "no". This is the key to integrity. Living your life authentically will allow you to respect the autonomy of others. Don't make false promises, show people who you are and stand by your commitments!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Going Green or Brewing Blue?
Are you going green?
It's the lastest "pop" term that has marketing agencies and environmentalist buzzing. The need to pay attention to our environment, and the effect we have on it, is long overdue. I am not expert on "Going Green". But, I do know enough to believe that we must, at the very least, begin to alter our ways of living in order to ensure a safe place for our children.
As Einstein suggests, we can not expect to solve this problem, or any other for that matter, by driving down the same road that led us to this dead end in the first place. Remember -- the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
What does that mean?
We have to change things up!
A simple search of "going green" on the internet will lead you to thousands of tips of how to conserve energy, recycle, and eliminate toxins in your home or buisness. Everything from driving a hybrid, using compost as fertilizer and eating organic foods are said to be a start to preventing further damage on our ozone layer.
Even if you start implementing just one "going green" tip, you will hopefully be starting a pattern of healthy living that will progress into a healthy environment.
But, what about the environment of your mind?
Our spirit has an ozone layer, too. An invisible shield that's primary function is to protect us from being burned by a power more damaging than the sun. When our mind becomes flooded with negative emotion, painful feelings and most damaging - self defeating thoughts - the toxic air we release begins to erode our protective shield and leave holes, like scars on our spirit. Our weak areas become pathways for poison to pollute our soul and pour down on us, and our families, like acid rain. What's left is anything from an enironment struggling to survive, to a space that can no longer produce healthy thoughts.
Spend some time reflecting on your internal environment. Unlike the real ozone layer, should you find a hole, you can repair it quickly. But, like the real iniative of "going green", it will take a life change.
It will take a committment to love your self and speak loving words to those around you.
Repairing the damage will require adding new thoughts in - thoughts that are forgiving, encouraging, loving and determined to live a fruitful life.
Maybe you are content with your ozone layer, damage and all. "It's only effecting me." you may think. "No need to change when I am the one who lives it."
Not true. Re-read a few paragraphs up. Your unwillingness to change your internal environment effects everyone around you - specifically those who love you. Just as the ozone layer has felt the effect of our ancestors ways of living, so will your spirit imprint on those who are to follow you. Individuals you have yet to meet will be effected by your choices to provide a healthy internal enviroment today.
This weekend reflect on your internal enviroment. Make a committment to recycle the good inside of you and eleminate the toxins. Do it for you and those you love. Going green will keep you from getting the blues!
It's the lastest "pop" term that has marketing agencies and environmentalist buzzing. The need to pay attention to our environment, and the effect we have on it, is long overdue. I am not expert on "Going Green". But, I do know enough to believe that we must, at the very least, begin to alter our ways of living in order to ensure a safe place for our children.
"The significant problems we have
cannot be solved at the same level of thinking
with which we created them"
Albert Einstein
As Einstein suggests, we can not expect to solve this problem, or any other for that matter, by driving down the same road that led us to this dead end in the first place. Remember -- the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result.
What does that mean?
We have to change things up!
A simple search of "going green" on the internet will lead you to thousands of tips of how to conserve energy, recycle, and eliminate toxins in your home or buisness. Everything from driving a hybrid, using compost as fertilizer and eating organic foods are said to be a start to preventing further damage on our ozone layer.
Even if you start implementing just one "going green" tip, you will hopefully be starting a pattern of healthy living that will progress into a healthy environment.
But, what about the environment of your mind?
Our spirit has an ozone layer, too. An invisible shield that's primary function is to protect us from being burned by a power more damaging than the sun. When our mind becomes flooded with negative emotion, painful feelings and most damaging - self defeating thoughts - the toxic air we release begins to erode our protective shield and leave holes, like scars on our spirit. Our weak areas become pathways for poison to pollute our soul and pour down on us, and our families, like acid rain. What's left is anything from an enironment struggling to survive, to a space that can no longer produce healthy thoughts.
Spend some time reflecting on your internal environment. Unlike the real ozone layer, should you find a hole, you can repair it quickly. But, like the real iniative of "going green", it will take a life change.
It will take a committment to love your self and speak loving words to those around you.
Repairing the damage will require adding new thoughts in - thoughts that are forgiving, encouraging, loving and determined to live a fruitful life.
Maybe you are content with your ozone layer, damage and all. "It's only effecting me." you may think. "No need to change when I am the one who lives it."
Not true. Re-read a few paragraphs up. Your unwillingness to change your internal environment effects everyone around you - specifically those who love you. Just as the ozone layer has felt the effect of our ancestors ways of living, so will your spirit imprint on those who are to follow you. Individuals you have yet to meet will be effected by your choices to provide a healthy internal enviroment today.
This weekend reflect on your internal enviroment. Make a committment to recycle the good inside of you and eleminate the toxins. Do it for you and those you love. Going green will keep you from getting the blues!
"For this very reason,
make every effort to add to your
faith goodness;
and to goodness, knowledge;
and to knowledge, self control;
and to self control, perseverance;
and to perseverance, godliness;
and to godliness, brotherly kindness;
and to brotherly kindness, love.
For if you increase these qualities
in increasing measure, they
will keep you from being ineffective
and unproductive..."
2 Peter 1:5-8
Monday, January 28, 2008
Preparing for the Super Bowl
The Super Bowl is around the corner, which means Football 101 occurs just about every evening in my household. Shane goes over the basics of the game, whose playing who, what team we are rooting for and why, and of course... how the game is played. Most of which flies right over my head.
"Do you get it?" Shane asked after a detailed discussion of a great offensive strategy.
"Yep." I said noncommittally.
"You have a blank stare." He noted.
"Yep." I answered, clearly not paying attention.
It's not that I am not interested, because I do like to listen when Shane is describing something that is fun for him. No matter what the subject, to watch someone you love get excited about something they treasure is fun. The point is that I really don't "get it". Not the rules... more of the reason behind it.
I have mentioned before that I am not athletically inclined. I ran track for one year and honestly enjoyed the bus rides more than the track. I have never had that drive to push harder when my opponent gets on my tail. "Well, good for them" I think in my head. Something tells me that a competitive athlete has an innate response to competition that differs slightly than mine.
Track is a non contact sport, too! I can not imagine being involved in a contact sport like football. I would run, similar to Forest Gump, simply to avoid being hit! I have a fear of being physically hurt. I can work through mental anguishes, but the idea of bruising or even breaking a bone is reason enough to enjoy the hot cocoa on the side lines rather than play the game. All of this coming from someone who has never broken a bone in her life and whose idea of surgery was getting my braces off in high school.
"Why would you be afraid of getting hurt?" Shane asked during one of my thesis speeches on the ridiculousness of putting yourself in harms way to win a game. "You can't be worried about getting hurt. Hurting is OK, it's the injury you have to avoid."
Again - blank stare.
"Hurting is good." Shane went on. "There is pain that can feel good. It makes you stronger, it builds muscles, makes you tougher, helps you run faster and keeps you alert. Athletes don't fear getting hurt."
He had my attention. That was a new way of looking at sports from my standpoint.
"A competitive, successful athlete doesn't fear getting hurt?" I asked slowly.
"Nope." He answered. "They are not focused on the bumps and bruises, they are focused on playing the best they can in the game. When there is an injury, that's different. The player would have to be smart and put himself above his pride, in order to prevent permanent danger. But, in general, pain can be positive."
This difference is clear to me now.
In football, and the game of life, if you fear the stress and pain that is inevitable when you play the game, you are only settling to be mediocre.
Imagine how life would be different if you didn't fear stress, challenge, change, confrontation and even wining. The football player's game would be altered if his attention moved from performing at his best to avoiding pain at all costs. He would likely be more clumsy and sloppy in his plays. Ironically, he probably would hurt more.
The same is true for all of us in life. The lens we see this "game" we are playing can not include fear or avoidance of struggles and challenges that stretch our abilities and encourage growth. To be stronger and build up the muscle of wisdom, we must be willing to see a challenge as an opportunity to grow, rather than a time to fear a small amount of pain.
I once heard someone say, "If a penny gave up every time it was brushed, then it would never be polished." The football player doesn't quit the game with the soreness of a muscle. We must also commit to playing at the best of our ability, even with a little pain from time to time.
"Do you get it?" Shane asked after a detailed discussion of a great offensive strategy.
"Yep." I said noncommittally.
"You have a blank stare." He noted.
"Yep." I answered, clearly not paying attention.
It's not that I am not interested, because I do like to listen when Shane is describing something that is fun for him. No matter what the subject, to watch someone you love get excited about something they treasure is fun. The point is that I really don't "get it". Not the rules... more of the reason behind it.
I have mentioned before that I am not athletically inclined. I ran track for one year and honestly enjoyed the bus rides more than the track. I have never had that drive to push harder when my opponent gets on my tail. "Well, good for them" I think in my head. Something tells me that a competitive athlete has an innate response to competition that differs slightly than mine.
Track is a non contact sport, too! I can not imagine being involved in a contact sport like football. I would run, similar to Forest Gump, simply to avoid being hit! I have a fear of being physically hurt. I can work through mental anguishes, but the idea of bruising or even breaking a bone is reason enough to enjoy the hot cocoa on the side lines rather than play the game. All of this coming from someone who has never broken a bone in her life and whose idea of surgery was getting my braces off in high school.
"Why would you be afraid of getting hurt?" Shane asked during one of my thesis speeches on the ridiculousness of putting yourself in harms way to win a game. "You can't be worried about getting hurt. Hurting is OK, it's the injury you have to avoid."
Again - blank stare.
"Hurting is good." Shane went on. "There is pain that can feel good. It makes you stronger, it builds muscles, makes you tougher, helps you run faster and keeps you alert. Athletes don't fear getting hurt."
He had my attention. That was a new way of looking at sports from my standpoint.
"A competitive, successful athlete doesn't fear getting hurt?" I asked slowly.
"Nope." He answered. "They are not focused on the bumps and bruises, they are focused on playing the best they can in the game. When there is an injury, that's different. The player would have to be smart and put himself above his pride, in order to prevent permanent danger. But, in general, pain can be positive."
This difference is clear to me now.
In football, and the game of life, if you fear the stress and pain that is inevitable when you play the game, you are only settling to be mediocre.
Imagine how life would be different if you didn't fear stress, challenge, change, confrontation and even wining. The football player's game would be altered if his attention moved from performing at his best to avoiding pain at all costs. He would likely be more clumsy and sloppy in his plays. Ironically, he probably would hurt more.
The same is true for all of us in life. The lens we see this "game" we are playing can not include fear or avoidance of struggles and challenges that stretch our abilities and encourage growth. To be stronger and build up the muscle of wisdom, we must be willing to see a challenge as an opportunity to grow, rather than a time to fear a small amount of pain.
I once heard someone say, "If a penny gave up every time it was brushed, then it would never be polished." The football player doesn't quit the game with the soreness of a muscle. We must also commit to playing at the best of our ability, even with a little pain from time to time.
Friday, January 25, 2008
What about YOU?
From where do you derive inspiration? What makes your heart sing? When you are low, what gives you strength?
I would love to hear about what inspires you and keeps you living in the spirit of life!
Go to the e-mail button below and send me a list!
If you are one of the many people who receive these blog via an e-mail subscription, then go to the actual blog site today - www.lizlistens.blogspot.com.
While you are thinking about what inspires you, check out the blog rolls added to the site. There are some awesome sites I know you will all enjoy!
Happy Weekend!
I would love to hear about what inspires you and keeps you living in the spirit of life!
Go to the e-mail button below and send me a list!
If you are one of the many people who receive these blog via an e-mail subscription, then go to the actual blog site today - www.lizlistens.blogspot.com.
While you are thinking about what inspires you, check out the blog rolls added to the site. There are some awesome sites I know you will all enjoy!
Happy Weekend!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Swimming in Murky Water
"Jada the Beta" is a beautiful fish that resides in my office. Before his arrival, my office felt stale and void of energy. Jada the Beta (rarely referred to by only his first name!) gave this space life. My clients and colleagues affectionately speak to him and comment on his beautiful colors. Plus, now they know that I am not always talking to myself in the office!
If you have ever owned a fish of any kind, then you appreciate the need and often annoyance of cleaning the bowl. The water turns murky and gradually gets lower. Food particles float around with waste eliminated. The biggest change is Jada's lack of energy. Instead of swimming all around energetically, he sits in one spot. His environment, I can only guess, causes him to feel drained, dirty and depressed.
Yesterday I announced to Jada, "It's bath time!". Taking him down the stairs and in the kitchen, I pulled out the tools for this project. The biggest challenge has always been getting him in the scooping device. That little rascal will dodge me left and right, fighting to leave his comfort zone. If I get him backed against the wall, he eventually has no choice but to get scooped up.
"There's no reason for all this stress!" I tell Jada (yes - I know, I talk to a fish).
"You are going to feel great when some of this grime is out of your life!"
Sure enough, every time he enters the clean water in his bowl, he swims with a new energy.
Yesterday was a little different, though. When I put the scooping device in his bowl, Jada willingly and with little effort swam right in! No stress or avoiding of the change. I was thrilled that we didn't have to waste time getting to the ultimate goal. Either this was solely an accident of luck, or Jada has learned to associate this experience with some initial stress, but eventually a happier life.
Have you ever felt like Jada? I know I have. Everything is status quo; comfortable, but not perfect. Then this thing comes out of nowhere, threatening our regular routine and introducing the element of the unknown. We dodge it, fight it, hide from it, ignore it and then dodge it some more. All to be eventually jerked up, fighting for air and then plummeted in a temporarily confining spot. Banging our head against this new space, questioning if we have been forgotten. Finally, released to the place that was promised and swimming with a new energy and greater understanding of life.
When I am cleaning the bowl, I am determined not to give up on Jada. I have his greater good in mind and if he would just trust that, the stress would be more minimal. It doesn't matter how much he dodges, I will keep trying.
The same is true for God. The spirit wants what is best in your life. Your God desires to give you all you deserve to live a happy life. But, it's not without your willingness to have faith to go in a direction that you are not sure of and leave what is comfortable behind. God will not give up!
If there is an element in your life that keeps popping up, it may be time to stop dodging it and surrender to whatever message this means for you life.
Whatever stage you are in - sitting in murky water, dodging the new element, adjusting to the small temporary space or swimming in your clean water - remember, God is in charge. Good things are around the corner whenever you relax into your spirit's plan. The longer you avoid, the more time you spend in murky water.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Preppy White Girl Celebrates MLK
My next client was a new one. I glanced in the mirror as I touched up my lip stick. Leaving the break room, I reviewed the client's face sheet and took note of why she was seeking therapy. As I walked out into the waiting area, I smiled, genuinely happy to meet the individual seeking out to better herself.
"I'm Liz - whom you will be meeting with today. Do you have any questions about the paper work?" I asked warmly to the wide eyed stranger.
That's when I noticed it. The look.
The look that said more than, "I've never been to therapy and I'm just nervous."
The look that hinted to disappointment, embarrassment and a touch of shock.
We walked to my office as I waited for the next line.
"You're so young!" she stated.
I smiled. It's hard not to instantly like someone who is honest about her emotions.
"Let's talk about that." I said as a typical therapist. "How will that effect our relationship?"
"Well," she wasn't sure where to go with this, "it's just that I thought... it's just... you're so young!"
I smiled again. After some discussion of our differences, age being just one, I invited this lovely lady to utilize the session today, and if at the end of the session she wanted to transfer to someone different, I would gladly assist in the process. After all, my goal is that she receive what she deserves: help with her issues at hand. My ego has no choice but to be left at home.
At the end of the hour she requested to continue her work with me as her therapist.
The truth is that I am young - comparatively so in my field. For some reason, people imagine therapists to be older, with gray hair placed in a bun and reader glasses at the tip of the nose. I am not the sort.
To sum me up in brief - I am preppy white girl in her late 20's. Highlighted dark blond hair, size 4/6 with a few pimples from time to time. I am good at what I do. I love what I do. I am passionate about helping people. I am also used to being judged at first glanced by some of the people I want to help.
I have been to old for the sixth grade girl who thinks no one understands.
To "preppy" for the out casts I saw in school based therapy. "You remind me of a cheerleader" one said disgustingly as she wrote me off.
Too white for the girl who was taught not to confide in people outside her race.
Too nice for those harden by life.
Too little, too old, too young, too something for a lot of people. How could I help them if I don't resemble them? I do not blame any of these people. Instead, I admire the many who have been able to look past our differences and move forward with the therapeutic relationship.
To know what it is like to be judged?
The smallest toe of my foot has barely grazed the tormented sea of judgement, racism and prejudice that has plagued our society for centuries.
I thank God for sending us fearless leaders, like Martin Luther King, Jr, who, in a peaceful state, fought for equality with a message of truth and wisdom. His dream was for all to realize that women and men are created equally.
So, where are you in that dream?
I am on board that journey. And I say journey, because it is ignorant to think that any of us are free of sin, or judgement in this case. I strive daily to filter out the media signals and age old stereotypes in order to see others as a reflection of God.... and not anything else. I work at it - and that's the truth. If you are not thinking about it, if you are not working at it... chances are you may not be following MLK's dream.
Don't think prejudice's still exist?
They are there in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Racism. Sizism. Ageism.
From religion to hair color. The fluency in the English language. The Southern drawl. Natural hair to the straightened European look. Tattoos. Piercing. He wears a uniform or he wears a tie. Single to married. Homosexuals. And the list goes on and on.
Strive today, in celebration of MLK's dream, to see others outside of what the demographics may represent. In the words of MLK, look for the content of a person's character. Believe in the dream to all be one. Like a body.... we all have a purpose. Do not cut some off because they are different than you. The knee is different than the ear and I need them both. MLK said that in order for America to be a great nation we must follow this thinking. And the same is for you - in order for you to be as great as God would intend for you to be - you must learn to look beyond what the eyes reflect and see with your spirit. After all - I am way more than a preppy white girl. Remember that others are more than meets the eye this week.
"I'm Liz - whom you will be meeting with today. Do you have any questions about the paper work?" I asked warmly to the wide eyed stranger.
That's when I noticed it. The look.
The look that said more than, "I've never been to therapy and I'm just nervous."
The look that hinted to disappointment, embarrassment and a touch of shock.
We walked to my office as I waited for the next line.
"You're so young!" she stated.
I smiled. It's hard not to instantly like someone who is honest about her emotions.
"Let's talk about that." I said as a typical therapist. "How will that effect our relationship?"
"Well," she wasn't sure where to go with this, "it's just that I thought... it's just... you're so young!"
I smiled again. After some discussion of our differences, age being just one, I invited this lovely lady to utilize the session today, and if at the end of the session she wanted to transfer to someone different, I would gladly assist in the process. After all, my goal is that she receive what she deserves: help with her issues at hand. My ego has no choice but to be left at home.
At the end of the hour she requested to continue her work with me as her therapist.
The truth is that I am young - comparatively so in my field. For some reason, people imagine therapists to be older, with gray hair placed in a bun and reader glasses at the tip of the nose. I am not the sort.
To sum me up in brief - I am preppy white girl in her late 20's. Highlighted dark blond hair, size 4/6 with a few pimples from time to time. I am good at what I do. I love what I do. I am passionate about helping people. I am also used to being judged at first glanced by some of the people I want to help.
I have been to old for the sixth grade girl who thinks no one understands.
To "preppy" for the out casts I saw in school based therapy. "You remind me of a cheerleader" one said disgustingly as she wrote me off.
Too white for the girl who was taught not to confide in people outside her race.
Too nice for those harden by life.
Too little, too old, too young, too something for a lot of people. How could I help them if I don't resemble them? I do not blame any of these people. Instead, I admire the many who have been able to look past our differences and move forward with the therapeutic relationship.
To know what it is like to be judged?
The smallest toe of my foot has barely grazed the tormented sea of judgement, racism and prejudice that has plagued our society for centuries.
I thank God for sending us fearless leaders, like Martin Luther King, Jr, who, in a peaceful state, fought for equality with a message of truth and wisdom. His dream was for all to realize that women and men are created equally.
So, where are you in that dream?
I am on board that journey. And I say journey, because it is ignorant to think that any of us are free of sin, or judgement in this case. I strive daily to filter out the media signals and age old stereotypes in order to see others as a reflection of God.... and not anything else. I work at it - and that's the truth. If you are not thinking about it, if you are not working at it... chances are you may not be following MLK's dream.
Don't think prejudice's still exist?
They are there in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Racism. Sizism. Ageism.
From religion to hair color. The fluency in the English language. The Southern drawl. Natural hair to the straightened European look. Tattoos. Piercing. He wears a uniform or he wears a tie. Single to married. Homosexuals. And the list goes on and on.
Strive today, in celebration of MLK's dream, to see others outside of what the demographics may represent. In the words of MLK, look for the content of a person's character. Believe in the dream to all be one. Like a body.... we all have a purpose. Do not cut some off because they are different than you. The knee is different than the ear and I need them both. MLK said that in order for America to be a great nation we must follow this thinking. And the same is for you - in order for you to be as great as God would intend for you to be - you must learn to look beyond what the eyes reflect and see with your spirit. After all - I am way more than a preppy white girl. Remember that others are more than meets the eye this week.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
God Speaks Via Pajamas
It was after 8:00pm when I got home last night. A pretty long day, that left me feeling exhausted. Mentally I was trying to combat stress and the negative thoughts that persistently tell me, "You'll never get it all done". Do we all have these thoughts that linger in and out in attempts to defeat us?
I got out of the car, relieved to be home and began walking up the side walk. When what to my wondering eyes should appear? But, a blue box with white ribbons sitting on the porch with MY name on it!
"PAJAMA GRAM!!!" I yelled as I entered the house.
"PAJAMA GRAM!" Shane echoed, having obviously already seen the box and left it to surprise me as my welcome.
Glowing and playful, I ripped open the box and then delicately extracted all the goodies. Soft fleece pajama pants and a top lined with satin were beautifully placed in a colorful container, topped with a daisy flower. I stopped being so delicate as I stripped down in the middle of dining room (Shane closing the door as he rolls his eyes at my lack of modesty) and put my new "comfies" on. Like a child on Christmas morning, I didn't want to wait an extra second without wearing my gift.
Next I read aloud the card that came with the gift: "Hey Liz! You're such a positive influence! Thanks for blogging about our show! Bob and Sheri".
A few posts back, I blogged about forming an alliance with your spirit. Check the archives on my site for a refresher. In this blog, I mentioned my favorite morning entertainment, The Bob and Sheri Show, and how it inspired me that day. Someone who is connected with the show found this post and sent me an e-mail requesting my clothing size so they could send me a "thank you". Truth be told I was just as excited about the acknowledgement of the e-mail as I was the pajama gram. My day has been made, so to speak, twice by this group.
Throughout the rest of the night I adorned my pajamas and frequently asked Shane, "How do you like my pajama gram?" wanting not to forget my present. I was practicing some of my favorite rules of life, playfulness and gratefulness. Before I went to sleep, I went back into the dining room and brought the package in the bedroom. And that's when I saw it again.
The daisy.
MY flower.
The flower that visited my mother 13 years ago in a desperate moment when she asked God, "Send me a daisy to let me know everything is going to be OK." And He did.
The flower I have adopted and often seek out for comfort.
The flower that sends me the message that I am on the right path, that everything is as it should be, that everything is O.K. and that I am aligned with my spirit. I flashed to the title of my blog that day, "Forming an alliance".
Did God send me a message via the show and this pajama gram that I was in deed following the course He would intend me too? To calm my fears and doubts and to encourage me to keep going?
Believe what you want.... but, I think so.
Critics would say that it is all circumstantial. That this relatively cheaply made flower is adorned on a number of boxes daily and sent to hundreds of people. There is no connection, no divine message - it's only coincidence.
Coincidence or not, I believe it was "God wink" (as one of my favorite books: "God Winks" calls it). It gave me peace, comfort and an unbelievable joy in my soul. I choose to accept His wink and not doubt it.
Pay attention to when you may be experiencing "God winks" or signs that you are not alone in this world. No matter how small - from a penny to a daisy - signs remind us that there is a spiritual connection that is guiding us a long this path of life. Be willing to be a facilitator, too. If your spirit has a drive to call someone, say something to a friend, or send a pajama gram to a blogging stranger.... do it. You could be the vehicle to a deeper message.
I got out of the car, relieved to be home and began walking up the side walk. When what to my wondering eyes should appear? But, a blue box with white ribbons sitting on the porch with MY name on it!
"PAJAMA GRAM!!!" I yelled as I entered the house.
"PAJAMA GRAM!" Shane echoed, having obviously already seen the box and left it to surprise me as my welcome.
Glowing and playful, I ripped open the box and then delicately extracted all the goodies. Soft fleece pajama pants and a top lined with satin were beautifully placed in a colorful container, topped with a daisy flower. I stopped being so delicate as I stripped down in the middle of dining room (Shane closing the door as he rolls his eyes at my lack of modesty) and put my new "comfies" on. Like a child on Christmas morning, I didn't want to wait an extra second without wearing my gift.
Next I read aloud the card that came with the gift: "Hey Liz! You're such a positive influence! Thanks for blogging about our show! Bob and Sheri".
A few posts back, I blogged about forming an alliance with your spirit. Check the archives on my site for a refresher. In this blog, I mentioned my favorite morning entertainment, The Bob and Sheri Show, and how it inspired me that day. Someone who is connected with the show found this post and sent me an e-mail requesting my clothing size so they could send me a "thank you". Truth be told I was just as excited about the acknowledgement of the e-mail as I was the pajama gram. My day has been made, so to speak, twice by this group.
Throughout the rest of the night I adorned my pajamas and frequently asked Shane, "How do you like my pajama gram?" wanting not to forget my present. I was practicing some of my favorite rules of life, playfulness and gratefulness. Before I went to sleep, I went back into the dining room and brought the package in the bedroom. And that's when I saw it again.
The daisy.
MY flower.
The flower that visited my mother 13 years ago in a desperate moment when she asked God, "Send me a daisy to let me know everything is going to be OK." And He did.
The flower I have adopted and often seek out for comfort.
The flower that sends me the message that I am on the right path, that everything is as it should be, that everything is O.K. and that I am aligned with my spirit. I flashed to the title of my blog that day, "Forming an alliance".
Did God send me a message via the show and this pajama gram that I was in deed following the course He would intend me too? To calm my fears and doubts and to encourage me to keep going?
Believe what you want.... but, I think so.
Critics would say that it is all circumstantial. That this relatively cheaply made flower is adorned on a number of boxes daily and sent to hundreds of people. There is no connection, no divine message - it's only coincidence.
Coincidence or not, I believe it was "God wink" (as one of my favorite books: "God Winks" calls it). It gave me peace, comfort and an unbelievable joy in my soul. I choose to accept His wink and not doubt it.
Pay attention to when you may be experiencing "God winks" or signs that you are not alone in this world. No matter how small - from a penny to a daisy - signs remind us that there is a spiritual connection that is guiding us a long this path of life. Be willing to be a facilitator, too. If your spirit has a drive to call someone, say something to a friend, or send a pajama gram to a blogging stranger.... do it. You could be the vehicle to a deeper message.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Sweater Shopping
On Sunday Shane and I decided to run some errands. Our adventure of returning items and buying house hold necessities led us to the local mall. Gift cards burn a whole in my pocket, so I decided to take an extra few minutes to peep my head into one of my favorite clothing stores. My mind was set on a new sweater to add to my winter wardrobe. I was almost trotting in the store, leaving Shane in the dust, when I quickly slammed on brakes.
Looking around the store I saw anything but sweaters. Colors were everywhere, but not in turtle necks or even long sleeves.
"What?" I exclaimed rather dramatically. "Why do they have Spring clothes out?"
All around me were bathing suits, shorts, tank tops and linen.
I left the store with a slow gait, looking downward.
"Didn't see anything you liked?" Shane asked as he approached the store.
"I barely started wearing my winter coats! My mind is not ready to buy for Spring!" I explained. (or whined more likely)
Have you ever felt like you can't get a grip on time?
"How was your weekend?" one asks.
"Not long enough!" the other replies.
"Not enough hours in the day!" a tired mother explains.
At work someone taped a quote next to the toilet paper rolls in the restroom. It reads, "Life is like a toilet paper roll, the closer you get to the end the faster it goes."
Some people are haunted by time. Never having enough time to do the things they have to do. Never finding the time to do the things they want to do. Feeling depressed worrying about what time may bring. Finding time, needing time -- If we could bottle time, put it in a beautifully painted jar... well, I bet we could make a ton of money selling it on e-bay!!
How do some people appear to not be bothered by the passing of time, while others are "stuck" fighting, resisting and over analyzing it's existence and impact on our lives?
I think the answer lies in regret. Those that embrace the new moments and are thankful for the old, feel at peace for how they have chosen to spend their time. But, if you are thinking time is the enemy, I would question whether or not you are participating against a war within yourself that you will never win.
We can not go back in time. No ifs, ands or buts. Period. What was done was done. Forgive yourself for those decisions that have haunted you and express thankfulness for the good times that you have had the blessing to experience. When you have come back to the present, chose to surrender to the passing of time. We can only gain control when we give it up. Appreciate the day. Live in the moment. Be present to what is all around you today. Get time on your side and quit fighting it! Carpe Diem! If you're not ready to buy a bathing suit when it's 20 degrees outside.... DON"T! The only way to appreciate your life is to live in the now.
Looking around the store I saw anything but sweaters. Colors were everywhere, but not in turtle necks or even long sleeves.
"What?" I exclaimed rather dramatically. "Why do they have Spring clothes out?"
All around me were bathing suits, shorts, tank tops and linen.
I left the store with a slow gait, looking downward.
"Didn't see anything you liked?" Shane asked as he approached the store.
"I barely started wearing my winter coats! My mind is not ready to buy for Spring!" I explained. (or whined more likely)
Have you ever felt like you can't get a grip on time?
"How was your weekend?" one asks.
"Not long enough!" the other replies.
"Not enough hours in the day!" a tired mother explains.
At work someone taped a quote next to the toilet paper rolls in the restroom. It reads, "Life is like a toilet paper roll, the closer you get to the end the faster it goes."
Some people are haunted by time. Never having enough time to do the things they have to do. Never finding the time to do the things they want to do. Feeling depressed worrying about what time may bring. Finding time, needing time -- If we could bottle time, put it in a beautifully painted jar... well, I bet we could make a ton of money selling it on e-bay!!
How do some people appear to not be bothered by the passing of time, while others are "stuck" fighting, resisting and over analyzing it's existence and impact on our lives?
I think the answer lies in regret. Those that embrace the new moments and are thankful for the old, feel at peace for how they have chosen to spend their time. But, if you are thinking time is the enemy, I would question whether or not you are participating against a war within yourself that you will never win.
We can not go back in time. No ifs, ands or buts. Period. What was done was done. Forgive yourself for those decisions that have haunted you and express thankfulness for the good times that you have had the blessing to experience. When you have come back to the present, chose to surrender to the passing of time. We can only gain control when we give it up. Appreciate the day. Live in the moment. Be present to what is all around you today. Get time on your side and quit fighting it! Carpe Diem! If you're not ready to buy a bathing suit when it's 20 degrees outside.... DON"T! The only way to appreciate your life is to live in the now.
"You'll never get anywhere
by forgetting where you
are right now."
Alicia Nash
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Shooting for the Moon
"Taking care of me is exhausting". I saw the weariness in the eyes of this young lady. "I just want to give it to someone else one day and have them take over. I need a vacation from worrying about me."
It's the 11th of January. I don't know about you, but already some of my well intended goals have begun to dim. I am no longer the bright flame of energy that is ready to embrace the "new me" with the new year. My light is flickering. I have worked diligently on my goals for two weeks now. Like the lady I was talking with earlier this week, I am growing weary of my positive changes. It takes a lot of focus to stay on track.
Making a change in your life is like running a marathon. It may sound like an adventure you can tackle. Inevitably, at some point in your training, one grows weary and asks aloud or silently, "Was I crazy to think I could actually do this?". Next comes the bargaining, "Maybe I'll take it down to a half marathon." Before you know it, you've signed up for a 5K and have made resolve with yourself that this may be all you could ever accomplish.
There is some merit in that saying, "Shoot for the moon and maybe you'll hit a few stars". So maybe the 5K is better than what would have been accomplished if the marathon was never a goal. The five pounds lost are not the 50 you intended for the year, but a start. The one junk drawer organized is not the whole house, but something. The one week of a positive attitude is not a year full of gratefulness, but at least a week. Right??
My spirit was twisting and turning as I typed the above paragraph. Why settle? You will only hit a star if your focus is not finely tuned on the intended target. The truth is that you can run the marathon, lose the weight, organize the house and work towards the promotion. You have the power within you to do whatever you set your mind, too. But, RIGHT NOW is the critical time. Don't let that flame burn out; rekindle the fire as you return to your spirit for inspiration and motivation.
"Those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on the wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.
Isaiah 40:31
Make the commitment this weekend to stay focused on your goals. Pray about your reservations. Ask your God for strength to continue. Find supportive family and friends and ask for encouragement. Shoot for the moon and be determined that you are not going to miss.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
"Great Job Liz!"
Yesterday my 12:00pm client canceled. Opting to keep in line with my New Year's goals, I decided to try out a new exercise class that met at that time. Along with everyone else and their brother, I found a parking space and entered the YMCA.
Going to an exercise class can be intimidating. Particularly one you have not gone too before. This was an hour long biking class. I was already begining to flood myself with negative thinking, "What if I can't keep up?", "I'm so out of shape, I don't know if I can make it an hour", and my personal favorite: "I think I'll place my bike close to the door in case I can't make it the whole time."
When I walked in to the class I was greeted with a different type of energy. Mostly, the classes I prefer are yoga or pilates. In these classes there is a calmness and quiet energy in the air. This class was filled with smiling, chatty individuals.
I could tell right away that the people in this exercise class were a "team". By eavesdropping into general conversation, I found that this class e-mails one another, keeps up with whose coming and whose not, and coaches one another to push their limits. I was beginning to feel intimidated as the only stranger in this crowd.
The instructor came up to me before class and whispered, "What's your name, hon?"
"Liz" I said, with a smile. Happy to feel included in this perky group.
We jumped on the cycles and to the beat of high energy music, our legs began spinning. The instructor called out moves and told us when to put more resistance on the bike and when to take it off.
A lady sneaked in late and put her bike next to mine.
"It's been a long day" the stranger confided to me as she started peddling beside me.
Head down, legs pumping, after only 20 minutes, I began to feel as if I would give out.
"Keep it up Liz!! You are doing great today!" The instructor called loudly.
Head still down, I beamed and began peddling my little heart out.
Others would chant words of advice to their peers across the room. I was really enjoying this class. And just when I thought I couldn't do another "jump" the instructor would yell, "Your working hard, Liz! Keep it up!"
I gave a thumbs up to the class and peddled my heart out. When the hour was up, I felt energized, renewed and excited that the class was so much fun for me. The instructor was calling things out again.
"You did great, Liz!"
"Thanks" I heard another voice call out.
I looked up to see that the lady biking next to me was talking to the instructor. She was telling her of how she was recovering from surgery.
"Well" the instructor was saying, "You did awesome, Liz."
"Thanks" the other Liz said, "I needed that."
The whole time, the entire class I thought the instructor was encouraging me along, when in reality she was encouraging someone else. For a second I began to feel embarrassed. Did I fool myself into thinking I was a part of the "group"? Was anybody secretly laughing at me for the "thumbs up" I gave in response to another person's encouragement? All these worries are nothing more than nonsense.
My experience in the class did teach me a lesson. Encouragement is so important in every part of life. I may have convinced myself to leave early had I not thought I was being encouraged and supported. A few lines of support kept me motivated and gave me the strength to not give up. In addition to giving encouragement to others, we also have to vow to accept support whenever possible. I could have left that class and erased all my positive feelings, based on the fact that I was not the intended recipient of the kind words. Instead, I decided to take the support whether it was meant for me or not. I needed it and it was there.
Be in tune this week to how you can motivate others in keeping their goals. Also be aware of when you are being motivated and take it to heart. Don't brush by it without a second thought.
If someone is cheering your name, give a thumbs up and go on peddling!
Going to an exercise class can be intimidating. Particularly one you have not gone too before. This was an hour long biking class. I was already begining to flood myself with negative thinking, "What if I can't keep up?", "I'm so out of shape, I don't know if I can make it an hour", and my personal favorite: "I think I'll place my bike close to the door in case I can't make it the whole time."
When I walked in to the class I was greeted with a different type of energy. Mostly, the classes I prefer are yoga or pilates. In these classes there is a calmness and quiet energy in the air. This class was filled with smiling, chatty individuals.
I could tell right away that the people in this exercise class were a "team". By eavesdropping into general conversation, I found that this class e-mails one another, keeps up with whose coming and whose not, and coaches one another to push their limits. I was beginning to feel intimidated as the only stranger in this crowd.
The instructor came up to me before class and whispered, "What's your name, hon?"
"Liz" I said, with a smile. Happy to feel included in this perky group.
We jumped on the cycles and to the beat of high energy music, our legs began spinning. The instructor called out moves and told us when to put more resistance on the bike and when to take it off.
A lady sneaked in late and put her bike next to mine.
"It's been a long day" the stranger confided to me as she started peddling beside me.
Head down, legs pumping, after only 20 minutes, I began to feel as if I would give out.
"Keep it up Liz!! You are doing great today!" The instructor called loudly.
Head still down, I beamed and began peddling my little heart out.
Others would chant words of advice to their peers across the room. I was really enjoying this class. And just when I thought I couldn't do another "jump" the instructor would yell, "Your working hard, Liz! Keep it up!"
I gave a thumbs up to the class and peddled my heart out. When the hour was up, I felt energized, renewed and excited that the class was so much fun for me. The instructor was calling things out again.
"You did great, Liz!"
"Thanks" I heard another voice call out.
I looked up to see that the lady biking next to me was talking to the instructor. She was telling her of how she was recovering from surgery.
"Well" the instructor was saying, "You did awesome, Liz."
"Thanks" the other Liz said, "I needed that."
The whole time, the entire class I thought the instructor was encouraging me along, when in reality she was encouraging someone else. For a second I began to feel embarrassed. Did I fool myself into thinking I was a part of the "group"? Was anybody secretly laughing at me for the "thumbs up" I gave in response to another person's encouragement? All these worries are nothing more than nonsense.
My experience in the class did teach me a lesson. Encouragement is so important in every part of life. I may have convinced myself to leave early had I not thought I was being encouraged and supported. A few lines of support kept me motivated and gave me the strength to not give up. In addition to giving encouragement to others, we also have to vow to accept support whenever possible. I could have left that class and erased all my positive feelings, based on the fact that I was not the intended recipient of the kind words. Instead, I decided to take the support whether it was meant for me or not. I needed it and it was there.
Be in tune this week to how you can motivate others in keeping their goals. Also be aware of when you are being motivated and take it to heart. Don't brush by it without a second thought.
If someone is cheering your name, give a thumbs up and go on peddling!
Monday, January 7, 2008
Cravings
Have you ever had a craving?
Surely if you have ever been pregnant, or been around a pregnant woman, you are aware of random and often intense cravings. From pickles to ice cream, or the combination of both, women can crave a number or interesting foods when expecting.
What about more intense yearnings? If you have ever been addicted to anything - from cigarettes to chocolate - you know well what a craving feels like.
Your body and mind tells you that you MUST have the substance now. When you don't get it, your body starts throwing a "temper tantrum". Depending on how strong the addiction - and what type - your body will play a number of tricks on you to get you to "cave in". The heart may quicken, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, itchy skin, and feeling "jittery". When the physical signs don't break you, the addiction will play into your brain. It will consume your thoughts with ways to get the desired substance; you will be lied too and told that "one more time" won't hurt anyone. Again, depending on the degree of addiction, your mind may even begin taking shots at your self esteem. If you can be low enough then you won't care what you ingest.
We all want things from time to time. But, sometimes we feel we MUST have something immediately.
"I just can't walk into that room anymore until it's painted! It must be painted now!"
"I can't make it through another hour without talking to her. "
"Work is impossible with my boss, I must change jobs now."
Whatever you want intensely and immediately, may not be good for you. Joel Olsteen focused his sermon this week on "Keeping your Joy". One line stood out to me. To paraphrase, "If you want something really bad with urgency, then you are off balance."
Give some thought to those things that you feel are urgent to acquire. Maybe they are conversations you are fretting to have or something changed in your life. If it effects you with urgency, and then changes your body reactions, and starts to effect your mood - then it is invading you like a drug. Take a step back from those types of desires. If in a week you want the same thing, do it -- with a calm and peaceful heart. Never act impulsively on these cravings - because you are not acting - the enemy is.
Disclaimer: Dangerous things could occur should you tell a pregnant woman this when she is experiencing a food craving. It is best to let her have the pickles and ice cream immediately!
Surely if you have ever been pregnant, or been around a pregnant woman, you are aware of random and often intense cravings. From pickles to ice cream, or the combination of both, women can crave a number or interesting foods when expecting.
What about more intense yearnings? If you have ever been addicted to anything - from cigarettes to chocolate - you know well what a craving feels like.
Your body and mind tells you that you MUST have the substance now. When you don't get it, your body starts throwing a "temper tantrum". Depending on how strong the addiction - and what type - your body will play a number of tricks on you to get you to "cave in". The heart may quicken, shortness of breath, sweaty palms, itchy skin, and feeling "jittery". When the physical signs don't break you, the addiction will play into your brain. It will consume your thoughts with ways to get the desired substance; you will be lied too and told that "one more time" won't hurt anyone. Again, depending on the degree of addiction, your mind may even begin taking shots at your self esteem. If you can be low enough then you won't care what you ingest.
We all want things from time to time. But, sometimes we feel we MUST have something immediately.
"I just can't walk into that room anymore until it's painted! It must be painted now!"
"I can't make it through another hour without talking to her. "
"Work is impossible with my boss, I must change jobs now."
Whatever you want intensely and immediately, may not be good for you. Joel Olsteen focused his sermon this week on "Keeping your Joy". One line stood out to me. To paraphrase, "If you want something really bad with urgency, then you are off balance."
Give some thought to those things that you feel are urgent to acquire. Maybe they are conversations you are fretting to have or something changed in your life. If it effects you with urgency, and then changes your body reactions, and starts to effect your mood - then it is invading you like a drug. Take a step back from those types of desires. If in a week you want the same thing, do it -- with a calm and peaceful heart. Never act impulsively on these cravings - because you are not acting - the enemy is.
Disclaimer: Dangerous things could occur should you tell a pregnant woman this when she is experiencing a food craving. It is best to let her have the pickles and ice cream immediately!
Friday, January 4, 2008
Forming an Alliance
I have always lived under the illusion that whatever I am doing at any given moment is clearly God's plan. If it were not God's plan, I would not be doing it. It's a tough line for me to understand. The difference between my choices and God's direction.
I prefer to float through life with the understanding that what I believe to be true and just will guide me to the next "best place". In many ways this has worked well for me. Doing good equals receiving good things. Being just means living in a just world. Loving others means love will come to you abundantly. I like these simple rules of living that have often soothed my soul.
When someone starts a conversation with, "Do you want the good news or the bad news?", I will always say "the good news". I then secretly hope that the story teller gets so excited about the good news they will forget all together the other misfortune they feel they must report to me. Like a child who clings to their teddy bear and fairy tales, I want to hear only good things and ignore the evil, or negatives, of the world.
Yesterday morning I was listening to one of my favorite morning radio shows, The Bob and Sherri Show. Often this pair is light hearted and jovial. Many mornings I have spent laughing out loud as I commute to work. Yesterday there was a different tone to the closing message. Sheri's stepfather died recently and she was discussing how her mother spent the first Christmas without her husband. Sheri then ended the show with a comment her mom made to her as they were hanging up the phone, "Some people are not living the life they are meant to be living. They are living the life they chose instead. And that is a far worse feeling than grief."
"Woe to the obstinate children,"
declares the Lord,
"to those who carry out plans that are mine,
forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit..."
Isaiah 30:1
My comfortable, cozy place of rest that whatever I am doing must always be the place God wants me, is not quite so. Without consultation and attempts to align with your Spirit, Your God, and all that you know to be true, you can not be sure you are living the life you are meant to be living. And, like the radio personality pointed out, not living that life is a far worse fate of unresolved pain. It is a suffering life. Feeling pain and grief is inevitable, but, we are not intended to suffer. We are not meant for that. Focus today on forming an alliance with the true Spirit. Confirm that you will live the life you are destined to have.
I prefer to float through life with the understanding that what I believe to be true and just will guide me to the next "best place". In many ways this has worked well for me. Doing good equals receiving good things. Being just means living in a just world. Loving others means love will come to you abundantly. I like these simple rules of living that have often soothed my soul.
When someone starts a conversation with, "Do you want the good news or the bad news?", I will always say "the good news". I then secretly hope that the story teller gets so excited about the good news they will forget all together the other misfortune they feel they must report to me. Like a child who clings to their teddy bear and fairy tales, I want to hear only good things and ignore the evil, or negatives, of the world.
Yesterday morning I was listening to one of my favorite morning radio shows, The Bob and Sherri Show. Often this pair is light hearted and jovial. Many mornings I have spent laughing out loud as I commute to work. Yesterday there was a different tone to the closing message. Sheri's stepfather died recently and she was discussing how her mother spent the first Christmas without her husband. Sheri then ended the show with a comment her mom made to her as they were hanging up the phone, "Some people are not living the life they are meant to be living. They are living the life they chose instead. And that is a far worse feeling than grief."
"Woe to the obstinate children,"
declares the Lord,
"to those who carry out plans that are mine,
forming an alliance, but not by my Spirit..."
Isaiah 30:1
My comfortable, cozy place of rest that whatever I am doing must always be the place God wants me, is not quite so. Without consultation and attempts to align with your Spirit, Your God, and all that you know to be true, you can not be sure you are living the life you are meant to be living. And, like the radio personality pointed out, not living that life is a far worse fate of unresolved pain. It is a suffering life. Feeling pain and grief is inevitable, but, we are not intended to suffer. We are not meant for that. Focus today on forming an alliance with the true Spirit. Confirm that you will live the life you are destined to have.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
"Is something wrong with society?"
Whew!
The last few weeks have been a world wind. I have visited with family and friends, eaten every piece of chocolate that was in site, dirtied up and then cleaned my house and others. I enjoy very much being in the company of those that I love.
Now it's time to get "back to the grind" as they say. While you wouldn't have known it when the alarm went off this morning, I am excited to get back to a routine. So much was neglected in order for my attention to be focused on the holidays and festivities.
"Is something wrong with our society?" a teenager asked me first thing this morning.
Curious about this loaded question, I asked her to explain.
"Everybody wants something different or feels like they need to become more. Why make New Years Resolutions? Why can't we all just be satisfied with who we are and what we have?" she asked with a perky voice.
While there is some very real truth to this girl's words, the idea of acceptance lies somewhere in the middle. I have to love me in order to want to better me. You can't move forward unless you have first accepted the place you are in presently. If you skip that step, then you never really move at all -- or you only move in a circle -- slamming back to the first place you started.
Take a look at what is today and accept it at face value with out judgement. Then, make movement. You accept and then you grow. Without acceptance you can not grow. Once you have accepted all of you, you can not help but to grow. Like everything alive in nature, we must always be moving towards a goal. It's simply not natural to stay still.
Do you have a vision for you? Whether it's your spiritual life, your physical health, or travel plans, goals need to be made to facilitate movement. Movement equals energy. It's up to you to make that energy positive for your life today.
The last few weeks have been a world wind. I have visited with family and friends, eaten every piece of chocolate that was in site, dirtied up and then cleaned my house and others. I enjoy very much being in the company of those that I love.
Now it's time to get "back to the grind" as they say. While you wouldn't have known it when the alarm went off this morning, I am excited to get back to a routine. So much was neglected in order for my attention to be focused on the holidays and festivities.
"Is something wrong with our society?" a teenager asked me first thing this morning.
Curious about this loaded question, I asked her to explain.
"Everybody wants something different or feels like they need to become more. Why make New Years Resolutions? Why can't we all just be satisfied with who we are and what we have?" she asked with a perky voice.
While there is some very real truth to this girl's words, the idea of acceptance lies somewhere in the middle. I have to love me in order to want to better me. You can't move forward unless you have first accepted the place you are in presently. If you skip that step, then you never really move at all -- or you only move in a circle -- slamming back to the first place you started.
Take a look at what is today and accept it at face value with out judgement. Then, make movement. You accept and then you grow. Without acceptance you can not grow. Once you have accepted all of you, you can not help but to grow. Like everything alive in nature, we must always be moving towards a goal. It's simply not natural to stay still.
Do you have a vision for you? Whether it's your spiritual life, your physical health, or travel plans, goals need to be made to facilitate movement. Movement equals energy. It's up to you to make that energy positive for your life today.
"The man who has accomplished
all that he thinks worthwhile
has begun to die."
E.T. Trigg
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