Quote for Today

"Allow all the emotions to pass through ~ feel freedom by letting them go… Don’t hold on to them (positive or negative emotions) for then blockages begin to form."
-Cindy Kochis

The Last Twelve Hours

I went to bed shortly before nine o’clock last night and woke up at 6:22am. I lay in bed and pondered the night’s odd dreams (of which I cannot remember an hour later). Within minutes my thoughts turned to writing. I mentally started a blog entry with “Inhale. Hold. Hold. Exhale. Ahhhhhhh…. Much better. Giving yourself a moment to experience your breath slows everything down and re-centers the chaotic mind.”

When I looked back to see how long it’s been since my last blog entry, I was astounded. In a desperate search to find a job for financial survival, I landed a position back in November at one of the local companies doing something other than following my passion. The new employment is going okay; stressful at times with inconsistent ‘shift’ hours (coming from working the 9-5 shift for over 20 years). On December 24th, I was given what I call a priceless Christmas gift and am very grateful. (Someone) from the HR department of (someplace) called at approximately 2:30 and left a message on my cell phone asking if I was still interested in the ‘copywriting’ position I’d applied for in October. My heart danced as I listened to this message. To make sure it was real, I listened to it again. A job that involves writing? A way for me to earn good money and be creative at the same time? Oh my, I’m in heaven!

I know the position I applied for doesn’t involve newspapers, but for as far back as I can remember, I’ve always dreamt of being a reporter writing articles of interesting people and places; good-hearted, fluffy stuff (as a dear friend of mine calls it). At one point around the age of twelve, I even had my own newspaper. I would type it up in our basement on my mother’s typewriter with carbon paper so I could have a copy and make my sister buy the make-your-fingertips-turn-blue version. The hard-core, point the finger at someone type articles do not interest me at all. I love to inspire, bring awareness to someone, something or someplace to help, not harm.

Someday, (don’t know how, don’t know when) I will have my own inspirational line of calendars, journals (currently I do make blank page journals if you’re interested) and maybe even oracle card decks with inspirational quotes and ‘pondering thoughts’. It is important to me to help others find their inner voice, strengthen their relationship with Self, empower and encourage the soul to grow in healthy, loving ways, and bring peace and harmony to the monkey-mind (chaotic mind). Do all this and be free to be creative. Each time I receive a quote or ‘pondering thought’ from deep within, I feel blessed and eager to share it with others whom are seeking a better way of life.

This is the point I set my journal down, ran upstairs and grabbed my laptop off the dresser and returned to my sacred spot next to the woodstove ~ my recliner.

Have a wonderful and joyous day. Always have faith that your dreams will come true.

Hugs and Giggles,
Me.

Key Elements Postponed

Due to scheduling conflict (on my end), I have postponed the Key Elements Open Forum at the Higher Self Bookstore in Traverse City till spring. I will keep you posted on the Key Element’s schedule as it becomes available. Thank you…

Today's Reminder

People come into our lives and leave their footprints within our souls. Which sets of footprints do you want to erase with the tides of your mind? You have the ability to watch the waves wash away the hurtful – painful memories for they serve no good. Treasure the imprints that uplift and empower you. Choose to hold onto those memories that fill you with love and joy. Let the rest go…

Written by Cindy Kochis 11-20-09

Goal-tending

The topic for Key Elements open forum on Monday, November 23rd, is “Goal-tending.” We establish goals all the time with the intent to succeed. What are some of the ways you stay on track? Join us Monday night at Higher Self from 5:30 to 7pm and be part of discussion. Your input is valuable…

“Money – What Are You Attracting?”

On Monday, November 16th, the Key Elements weekly forum topic is “Money – What Are You Attracting?” This is sure to bring awareness to beliefs and sayings we nonchalantly say without considering the consequences (I don’t have the money, I can’t afford to buy ___ and etc). It is through awareness that change can and does happen. Please join us and share in the open forum discussion format. We would love to hear what you have to say.

A thought to ponder: “Careful what you wish for” statement is a close second to the impact of, “Be AWARE of your beliefs.”

Key Elements weekly forum is facilitated by Cindy Kochis and held each Monday evening at Higher Self Bookstore from 5:30 to 7 p.m. To stay up-to-date, visit onegigglingwriter.blogspot.com or go to www.heartsourcehealing.com.

Don’t Despair – Celebrate

While I was journaling this morning, this newsflash type of a Ah-ha moment spilled out onto the page in the shape of lines and curves, loops and swishes, and the occasional dot to end a thought. By the time I finished a page and a half of writing I was hearing that personal mantra repeating relentlessly, “careful what you wish for.” It was not meant to cause harm or to assume that I’ve done something wrong, it was the three year old girl inside my mind dancing joyously at the realization that another Ah-ha happened.

Delay tactics are everywhere. Heck, most of the time we don’t have to look outside ourselves to find/create them. For me, I turned mine into what I was attracting. You know, Laws of Attraction. Well, it bit me in the butt… and that’s okay. I’m celebrating the realization.

"What are the lines you nonchalantly say without thinking of the consequences? Referring to the Law of Attraction, what are you attracting to your life?" -Cindy Kochis

I have a mission - a goal. Write a best-selling novel. I used probably every imaginable excuse as to why progress, well, didn’t happen. Here’s part of what I wrote this morning. To remove distractions and time used for other things, my Angels and Guides fulfilled my “attract” request. “I’d write more often if I had the time.” – I have been unemployed for months. “I’d write if I had fewer distractions.” – I don’t have gas money to do the things I used to fill my time with nor do I have the same friendships/relationships that occupied my time. “I’d write more if I wasn’t working all the time.” – Goes back to the seeking job entry I mentioned a few lines above. “I’d write more if I had more time.” – Well, having my day open from 9am to 5pm, you’d think I would have taken advantage of this blessing earlier this year. But, no! I was terrified about the lack of money, in a panic to get a job, feeling too isolated to be creative, begging for the opportunity to talk to someone…

Earlier this month, I let go of my fear regarding money and am trusting that it will be there when I need it. And, the key is, I believe it. I have set my intent to work on my novel everyday (even for 5 minutes). Things are opening for me because I am allowing the flow of creativity to emerge freely.

Adding Personal Touch to Creativity

Creativity is not only about doing crafts and spending time working on hobbies, it’s a way of expressing yourself. At yesterday's “Key Elements” weekly forum, we talked about the things that inspire (and block) our creativity. Spending time in nature appeared to be very important to us.

Here’s a few examples we discussed:
Watch the sun rise and the sun set in the distant horizon.
Observing a squirrel jump from tree limb to limb trusting she won’t fall.
Walk along the beach or in the woods.


Here’s a list of the other things that inspire us:
Witnessing people’s passion for their craft.
Reading.
Writing or journaling.
Brainstorming with a friend or co-worker.
Watch children play.
Meditate.

Although the list of creative blocks can be long (use of delay tactics), why list them? In doing so, I might help you find another reason or excuse to avoid doing what you set out to complete. By recognizing the blocks for what they represent – FEAR – will help open the doors to freely create.

Exercise #1: List 10 things you would love to learn how to do.

Exercise #2: List what you’d do if you weren’t afraid of anything.

Exercise #3: List all your delay tactics (things you do instead of the task and excuses for not getting it done)

Exercise #4: What are you going to do about Exercise #1, #2 and #3?

Suggested Reading:
“The Artist’s Way” series by Julia Cameron
“Stephen King on Writing”, by Stephen King
“Living Juicy”, by Sark

A Fly’s Morning Lecture.

Messages come to us sometimes in the oddest ways. Even though I’m thankful for the signs/messages, it’s November 10th and I have fly buzzing around me and occasionally landing on my shoulder. Uh, I thought, what are you trying to tell me. Then it dawned on me – ‘Fly on the Wall’. When it comes to finishing my novel, and cannot figure out what letters to peck at on the keyboard, I need to sit back and observe as if I were a ‘Fly on the Wall’. Allow the imagination the freedom to explore the situation from a distance: What’s going on in the room? Who’s in the room? Why are they in the room?

“Standing in the point of view of the character, what would I see?”

Blocks are a great excuse to start working on delay tactics. I know plenty of ways to distract my mind and stop the progression of the storyline. Heck, I’ve been doing it for years (literally). Get stuck on a paragraph, go clean the toilets. Then more inner dialog trickles in: Oh, and look there in the laundry basket, two load of laundry that must get done at this moment. Wait, after I get the dirty clothes in the machine and set the dials, who can walk back past the sink full of dishes just needing to be scrubbed with warm water and lots of bubbles? Of course, leave the warm water in the sink because I might dirty another dish. Ooooo, ice cream sounds good. I’ll see what’s on television while I enjoy this delicious frozen delight of vanilla with caramel and chocolate swirls. Yikes! Now it’s time for bed. “Well,” I’d tell myself out loud, “I’ll write more tomorrow.”


And a special note - in case you were wondering - the fly is no longer in my office with me as I type this last sentence. I believe I understood his morning lecture.

Metaphysical Two-by-Four

It’s a common question, “Dear God. Please show me a sign as to what I should focus my time on. Thank you.”

For years I’ve been working on a novel. I’ll write consistently for a while, and then stop for a longer while. Something stirs up the motivation and I write again. Several months ago, as I was talking with a close friend of mine that’s a psychic, she informed me of the importance of finishing my novel. Sherry Lord would add statements about how it will be help open people’s minds to the metaphysical.

This past Thursday was Linda P’s last radio show broadcast on a Chicago station. She’d asked if I’d call in to chat and get a reading done by her special guest Sherry Lord. It was toward the end of her show when I called in and asked Sherry, “Regarding employment, where is the location should I be looking in and what profession?” Divine intervention was truly assisting both of us as I had to repeat the question three or four times. Once she was able to hear what I asked, she immediately stated that my Guides want me to complete my book. If I choose, it will be completed in three months. Then she quickly interjected I’d be working within 20 minutes from my home and it would have to do with internet or something online (I’m excited to hear this). Afterwards, she went right back into talking about writing and how to finish the novel.

Fast forward an hour. On Facebook, a friend of mine that also has Divine connections offered free Angel readings to the first three responses to her questions. I was number one. Following is the message she sent to me: Your Angel message is "Follow the repetitive messages you have been getting around a creative idea (this feels like a book) and as you listen to this, prosperity will soon follow.

“So what are your thoughts, have I been hit with the metaphysical two-by-four?”

Friday I spend the evening finishing Chapter 41 (1,117 words) and completed Chapter 42 (2,268 words).

Word count as of November 7, 2009 9pm: 64,447 words
62,179 + 2,268 = 64,447

Join us for "Creativity"

November 9th ~ “Creativity”
We will discuss the causes of creative blocks and explore various methods for inspiration.

There is much, much more to creativity than crafts and hobbies. It is how we express ourselves and the personal touch we add to everything we do whether for ourselves or others. Where do you find inspiration? What causes your blocks, and how do you release them? This is sure to be an interesting topic with many solutions and creative imagination. Join us Monday, November 9th, from 5:30 to 7 pm.

On Monday, November 2nd, we met and discussed the topic “Power of Words”. The focus was on how we use words to express ourselves and what are we saying with the emotions attached to those words? I would like to thanks those whom attended. It was interesting to see where the topic led our conversations and the information we shared. Worksheets available here (bottom of web page).

Key Elements is a weekly forum held each Monday night at Higher Self Bookstore in downtown Traverse City from 5:30 to 7 pm. Cost is $10.

Getting into a Routine

On Wednesday morning last week, my house guest left and made her way back to Chicago with a stop in Detroit for a job interview. The job of employment searching is currently not an easy task. I, myself, am looking for employment and find myself asking complete strangers if they know anyone hiring. All will be fine. I have faith that everything will work out for the best. The blessing is I have time on my hands to write. Thursday and Friday was spent mostly on the internet looking through miscellaneous help wanted sites. Friday evening, an hour on Saturday and Sunday evening were spent with the computer within fingertip range. I completed chapter 38, and wrote chapters 39, 40 and am half way into 41. In total, I assembled 5,104 words into fine artwork. Pictures have been painted and storyline weaved to tantalize the reader’s curiosity.

Word count as of October 25, 2009 9pm: 62,179 words
57,075 + 5,104 = 62,179

It's Not Your Fault

After the wood was ignited in the woodstove and a full journal page of words spread out in unwavering lines, I was compelled to find my Doreen Virture’s book, “Realms of the Earth Angels” (I have high respect for her work and recommend her products to everyone). Guided to page 121, middle of the page, I handwrote the following into my journal and knew it would bring awareness to someone's life (and reminder for me). “The children may blame themselves for not diverting a tragedy, since they foresaw it. Yet, these psychic insights are often an opportunity for the individuals to pray about it. If they were supposed to intervene, they would have been clearly told what to do to prevent the situation.”

“Our purpose is not to suffer, but grow by feeling inner joy and peace in any circumstances.”
- Cindy Kochis

Even though the statement begins with ‘children’, it is also true for adults as well. There are times that we are not meant to intervene, however be of assistance to those affected by the situation. We all have lessons to learn and adventures to experience. When a situation comes up and you don’t understand or know what to do, be still. Listen to your intuition – inner guidance. When you are ready to take action, follow your heart and what feels appropriate only for you. If your intention is of the highest good for all with harm to none, you will do the right thing. Trust yourself.

A New Begining

A friend of mine mentioned that things would be changing for me SOON. This is both good and bad. How often it is that we like the comfort of the same-o-same-o routine. Jump out of bed, shower, get ready for the day, experience the day, and then go home prepare dinner, eat, relax, go to bed and start all over tomorrow. I’m ready for a change. The thought of up-heaving, shaking up, and gently setting my life on another pedestal sounds wonderful right now. In order for change to happen, I have to get the ball rolling.


Starting on Monday, November 2nd, I will begin offering a weekly open forum series at the Higher Self Bookstore on Front Street in Traverse City. I’m looking forward to this new endeavor. Key Elements is something that I have been strongly guided to do. When you see the signs and everything falls into place gracefully, it’s important to follow the intuition and go for it. Ricki, owner of Higher Self, was wonderful to assist me in putting the plan into action. We worked out a schedule that will be accommodating to many. Key Elements is scheduled for every Monday evening, starting November 2nd, at 5:30 until 7pm at Higher Self Bookstore.

"When you come to the edge of all the light you know, and are about to step off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing one of two things will happen: There will be something solid to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly."
— Patrick Overton Educator, Poet, Playwright, Author, and Speaker

Another announcement, to be more accessible to clients, I have switched the days I do the Flowing Liquid Light Healings at Evolve in Glen Arbor to Sundays – 11am to 4pm. If you are interested in a ½ hour or hour session, please call 334-4200 to schedule an appointment (walk-ins always welcome).

Distractions Are No Excuse ~ So They Say

Okay, I was very busy last week preparing for a guest staying in my house for five days. I know, Dr. Dryer says “No Excuses,” but… but… but… Oh, who am I fooling? Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings were spent writing, editing, deleting and rewriting. I had quality time with a red pen and it was wonderful. The chapter that started with 1373 words, exceeded 2,400 and now rests comfortably saved in a file on my computer at 1,884. To say that I wrote only 511 words this last week would be completely inaccurate, yet precise. Chapter thirty-seven is complete – for now.

Word count as of October 19, 2009: 57,075 words
56,564 + 511 = 57,075

Lighting the Path

When it comes to dreams, and fulfilling them, your truest friends will join you and celebrate all the stages. The Inner Light Expo is Cheri’s dream to make various metaphysical, healing and spiritual methodologies accessible to those wanting to know more. Reasons vary, curiosity grows and awareness is established.

“You need to be aware of what others are doing, applaud their efforts, acknowledge their successes, and encourage them in their pursuits. When we all help one another, everybody wins.”

— Jim Stovall (Success Secrets of Super Achievers)

This past weekend was the second Inner Light Expo sponsored by Evolve of Glen Arbor. It was held in the Grand Traverse Mall in Traverse City and attracted many participants and visitors. Individuals sought insight and conformation on subjects ranging from relationships, health, jobs, money, past life regression, auras to communicating with loved ones that have crossed over. All areas were covered – Mind, Body, and Spirit. It was a great event and I feel very fortunate to have been a part of it.

I want to thank Cheri and John of Evolve for sharing this dream with all of us. It is a blessing…

A NOVEL Idea

It’s almost embarrassing to admit this, but I’ve been slowly working on my first novel for far too long. This morning as I sat in my burgundy recliner with my feet being warmed by the heat of the wood stove, an idea popped into my head - I wonder what motivation I could create for myself IF I added a section to the blog about the solitary adventure of writing something consisting of more than 1,000 words.

The ego, sitting on my right shoulder says, “Huh, like anyone’s going to read it. They’ll just laugh at ya ‘cause this crazy book dream has been in the works for over three years. Who gives a crap? Besides, shouldn’t you be doing the dishes? What about the dirty laundry? Ya know, I think it would be time better spent if you were to reorganize something; say your pantry for instance. Hey, isn’t there something good to watch on television? You could be missing an episode of Anthony Bourdain’s ‘No Reservations’ you haven’t seen yet.”

The instant the badgering ego pauses to take in a breath, angelic chimes ring softly from my left shoulder and it’s Amanda, my higher self. The one who knows what’s best for me; the voice I trust the most; the inspiration when creativity ‘has left the building’. Softly, and without hesitation, Amanda whispers, “I love you, and you can do this. There are others going through the same process and it’ll help them to witness someone enduring the same struggle succeed. You’ll build a following of supporters that’ll encourage you to keep going in the blank-page-syndrome times and, most likely, buy your novel when it hits the store bookshelves. I say, put it out there if you believe it will motivate you and help establish a novel-writing-routine.”

“Break it down,” a friend said to me. “Don’t stare at the finish line and overwhelm yourself with the amount of work before you. When you make bite-size goals, you can accomplish anything your heart desires.”

It is true, there are other writers out there seeking inspiration and ways to stay motivated. Heck, I’m one of them. So far, I have written the prologue and thirty-seven chapters plus one written too early for where I am in the story line (it’s currently titled ‘thirty-something). I know the direction of the story, meaning I know the ending and the twists and turns to get me there, but it’s committing to the time of putting it on paper that’s been the challenge. It seems like there are other things that need to be done first before I sit down to the computer and not-waste an hour or two or three.

Armed with intent, my goal is to report to you the progress of the novel. I want to see this book to the last period ending the final sentence. It is my dream, and I’m not embarrassed to admit it.

Word count as of 8:44am October 12, 2009: 56,564 words

Who will you turn too?

Life is full of choices. The best, and most reliable, person to seek advice from is deep within ourselves. Sure, there are times we are too emotionally attached to the outcome and end up with two voices in our heads arguing I can/I can’t… Should I/Shouldn’t I… Yes/No… When that happens, what do we tend to do? Ask for guidance outside of our personal realm.

Believing in “Me”, “Myself” and “I” is essential now more than ever and will provide the best possible outcome for any decision. When we feel that we can accomplish a goal and believe it is achievable, the energy within us rises. On the flip side, if we waver with indecision we become ‘stuck.’ The lack of trusting our intuition causes our energy level to lower.

What is your intuition telling you? What are the lessons to be learned with this particular situation? Do you believe everything will work out for the highest good for all (with harm to none)? Or is fear motivating your decision?

Listen to your heart. It’s very wise and always has your best interest in mind. Take a walk in nature, sit silently, meditate, write or however you find a sense of connection with your inner guidance. When we seek advice from others, we give our decision-making power away and allow another person(s) to influence our personal journey. Stop and observe the sensation within the core of your body (gut-feeling) when you ask yourself: What is their motivation? Do they offer solutions that fit their own situation? Will they gain anything from these suggestions? Is it coming from their heart with the intent of strengthening and empowering you? Are you willing to follow through with the advice you’d give your loved one if they solicited your opinion? Remember, we came into this life with lessons to learn through our own choices.

Inner Light Expo

John and Cheri of Evolve (Glen Arbor, MI) is presenting another Inner Light Expo in Traverse City in the Grand Traverse Mall on October 17th & 18th.

Earlier this spring, they hosted their first expo and the response from the attendees was phenomenal. With the support of the participants, this dream of Cheri’s will evolve into many new directions for their store.

I will be there offering my services and doing a presentation titled “Life’s Expressions” – Journaling at 11am on Saturday.

Visit www.innerlightexpo.com for details.

Key Elements

This month, October, is a pivotal period. I’ve felt a shift in how I feel about money, time to myself, relationships, friendships, and, well, everything entwined in the web of life. There’s a renewed strength of who I am.

With this courage, I’m starting a weekly forum at one of the local metaphysical stores. The fear of speaking before an audience will be replaced with the knowledge of ‘I am communicating from the heart.’ And the nasty four letter word that tends to hold all of us back at one time or another will dissipate and disappear quickly.

A poem by Christopher Logue about Guillamue Apollinaire:
He said "Come to the edge."
I said, "I can't; I'm afraid."
He said, "Come to the edge."
I said, "I can't; I...'ll fall off."
He said finally, "Come to the edge."
And I came to the edge. And he pushed me. And I flew.

Ricki, owner of Higher Self Bookstore, has helped with her guidance and wisdom in establishing the Key Elements – Weekly Forum for the Mind, Body and Soul. Each week we will discuss a subject, and occasionally wander onto other subjects as well, with the intent of learning, discovering inspiration and nurturing our relationship with Self in a safe, carrying environment.

The sessions will be on Monday evenings beginning on November 2nd (time has not been confirmed). I look forward to you seeing you there.

Please watch for updates.

Move Your Manifestations

“Believing is more than putting words into a thought. It is also applying those words into action.”

…is the quote I woke up with this morning (pretty profound for 4:16am.) You can tell yourself all day long you’re beautiful, but if you sit on the couch and don’t wash and comb your hair, brush your teeth, or clip your finger nails, will you when you look in the mirror still be able to think yourself beautiful. Probably not. In order for manifestations to come forth, you have to do something. Manifesting is not the simple act of repeating affirmations, sitting back and waiting. What action are you taking towards your desires?

“For the manifestation to materialize, you must first take physical steps in the direction of your desires.”
- Cindy Kochis

You want to be successful at work, what action are you taking to make it happen? Are you sitting by the phone playing solitary on the computer hoping your boss will call you into the office and tell you you’ve been promoted? Or are you making the effort to contact clients and prospects, asking, “How can we assist you or your company?”

Look at the excuses we all use at one point or another. We use them as a way not to put the blame back on ourselves. After all, we are sitting in our favorite chair telling ourselves we are beautiful without grooming. Now is the time to change our thoughts and beliefs. Take responsibility and take action towards your goals and place value on the outcome you desire. Be easy about it, don’t over-think things, just place value on each step moving you closer to the goal.

Nasty Word in the Vocabulary

‘Maybe’ is how I wanted to start a sentence earlier this morning even though I knew I’d be scratching out the wavering word when editing. ‘Maybe’ is indecisive. Do I really want to use a word that teeter-totters on yes, no? Ick. Why? A friend suggested to me to use a big gum eraser and rub out certain words out of my vocabulary’s dictionary. For example the word ‘fear.’ “You have nothing to be afraid of,” he said, “replace it with a gentler word like ‘apprehensive’.” I digress. ‘Maybe’ allows us to continue to remain hesitant, uncertain, unsure, undetermined… No action will be taken as long as we continue to vocalize that dirty five letter word and allow it to invade our thoughts. Although, it sure does fit so well in the phrases; “Maybe I should…” “I think maybe if I…” “Maybe I could…”

Divine Blessing

Sometimes things come to us in unique and blessed ways. A friend of mine asked if she could write about my business. First thought was Pat Stinson wanted to write about Creative Counsel (www.thecreativecounsel.com), and wondered why because I’m a freelance writer just like her. In her response to my email, she wrote that she’d heard I do some kind of energy work and was curious.

"I love a curious writer."

I am a Level III Practitioner of the Flowing Liquid Light Healing modality and established Heart Source Healing earlier this summer when I decided to dedicate my time to assisting others on their path. To learn more about Flowing Liquid Light Healings, please click on the link to read “Energy Healing Offered at Evolve."

Being Open to Adventure

‘Have mascara will travel’ has been my mantra for a very, very long time. Monday I was up for an adventure. I didn’t want to hang out at the home office or at my second office (the Chamber office). I really wasn’t in the mood to do much of anything, except something out of the ordinary. It took me just over two hours to get to Rockford, a place friend of mine suggested I visit. Of course, I couldn’t remember the store name, but trusted that I would find it in the riverside town.

Two blocks from where I parked, I entered Open Minded. I struck up a conversation with the owner, Diane, and one of the Spiritual Advisors, Pam. Let’s see, I arrived a little after one o’clock and left around eight-thirty. Go figure, me talk that much! Surprised aren’t you. Nah, didn’t think you’d be. Towards the back of the store were three or four chairs. Diane, Pam and I quickly found ourselves comfortably talking and getting to know one and another. There are few places that I feel (what I call) ‘nakedly comfortable.’ Sounds odd, but how many establishments can you go in and feel so at ease, completely yourself?

At six o’clock, Maria was offering an Equinox Ceremony. It was beautiful. Sitting on the floor she performed a blessing of the pipe. As she called in the ancient, wise ones to join us, I could sense three of the forefathers with her and talking in their native Indian language as she spoke and invoked the elements and the respected directions. Words cannot describe the feeling of mutual love and admiration Maria has for the beliefs of the culture as the wise ones have for her dedication to the knowledge. She educated me a goal setting technique that I believe will actually work. During the meditation, I was led to a place where I found the answers to my questions. It was such a remarkable experience that I plan to attend the winter ceremony.

When we are open to the idea of getting into our vehicles and going to a place we’ve never been, there will be an adventure.

The “ah-ha” moment.

"I doesn’t matter the circumstances ~ what matters is the lesson."

I have spent most of my summer with a lot of quiet time. Never really feeling like I missed out on anything, but wondering why I was spending more time by myself than ever before. I asked my angels, spiritual guides and teachers, “Why must I go forth on this journey by myself?” The words I receive were: perception, disconcertment, and non-influence (their term). Okay, I still wasn’t clear on what that meant. So once again I call in my angels, guides and teachers, “Please show me how this all ties together.”

Since then, I’ve spent time with a vast variety of friends. I was exposed to different points of view and levels of personal and spiritual growth. We are all going through our own experiences and I honor each with compassion and acceptance. As the pen glided across the pages of my journal this morning, it occurred to me I knew the answer to my question. I wrote: “I clearly see now I know within ‘myself’ is truly who ‘I am’ uninfluenced by others.”

If you find yourself alone or feeling isolated, accept it as an opportunity to get to know and strengthen the love for “self”. Separate yourself from the things others have told you about “you”. If is painful, or anything less than from love – let it go. You are LOVE. A simple suggestion, spend time in nature doing the things that you enjoy. Search out only things that bring a smile to your face, an extra bounce to your step, a warm and fuzzy feeling inside. Explore the joy of life. It’s out there, I promise you. Take time and talk to the angels, your spiritual guides and teachers. They are with you. You may not see, hear or feel them, but they are there. Ask for signs. Ask for clarification. Ask for answers. Accept the information you receive. It may surprise you. And when you look back on certain event(s), you will say to yourself, “Ah-ha! That’s why.”

Changes - Giggles- Schedules

Okay, I’ve changed my blog’s appearance four times now. The sad part, this will be my fifth entry. So what do people write on their blogs? I’m certain you don’t want to read about the dull drums of deadlines and paperwork, or how I had to unclog a toilet (which I haven’t had to do since my sons were young and wanted to watch their Lego’s swirl in the bowl).

I love to talk. Ask anyone I know. It was a great asset when I was in advertising sales; except my bosses didn’t like me spending so much time gabbing with my clients. As a writer it has its benefits. Most times the interviews will last much longer than planned. And that’s okay. I get some really interesting information I would have never heard otherwise.

My goal is to make at least one entry per week (hopefully more) of whatever I feel is appropriate to share. I’ve scheduled time on my calendar – in ink – however somewhat reluctant to make any promises. Life has a way of through a curve ball and I’m always up for an adventure.

Daily Routines

Today is 09-09-09 and everywhere you look on the internet there are great reasons to embrace it. Numerologists explain the number 9 represent the end, and a time for new beginnings. This week I made the decision to focus my attention on myself. Sounds a bit selfish, however I believe its self-love. The first step was to shift my morning routine. Instead of promising myself that I’ll write another chapter in the novel-in-process in the evening, it’s done before getting ready for the day. No procrastination. No more delay tactics.

What’s wrong with putting your needs before someone else’s? Before a airplane takes off, the flight attendant instructs us to put on our air mask on first - then your children. If you cannot breathe, it’s impossible to help others.

Putting Food By

The sweet pea vines have begun to dwindle. Tomatoes are ripening on the stem and cucumber plants continue to spread at an amazing rate. Only a few red raspberries remain on the stalk untouched by deer and human hands.

Dedicated to the tasks of hauling water, pulling weeds, cultivating the soil and removing tent worms from broccoli leaves, I am blessed with the abundance of fresh, nutritional food. Vegetables and fruit I will enjoy long after the harvest. I am grateful.

Courage to Write

Sitting in my truck within range of the Library’s wireless access, I am trying to come up with something witty and interesting to post on this great blog. There’s a million words floating around in my head, and yet like the rain gently soaking everything outside, nothing is hitting me. Twice I wrote something on the subject of Journaling and its importance (and it is), and twice I deleted the garble of goo. Actually, it read more like an owner’s manual. Boring!

“You never find yourself until you face the truth.”
-Pearl Bailey

I’ve been journaling since I was fifteen. It was the best advice I’d received from a doctor. No. Not that kind of doctor. Out of pure frustration with me, my mother took me to talk with one of her closest friends, a surgeon she worked with at a local hospital. I couldn’t/wouldn’t communicate with anyone. It wasn’t difficult for him to quickly see I was a shut-down lock-down teenager with a lot of stuff bottled up inside without a release valve. Basically, I did not know how to get “IT” out of my system. Truly, there was no intensions of be difficult, unwilling, or even a defiant teenager. There was no outlet for my compiling thoughts. His advice changed my life. A simple set of instructions: “If you won’t talk to anyone, then write it out. You have to get it out of your mind.”

The purpose of journaling is not to rehash hurt feelings or the painful events that have occurred in our lifespan. It is to learn and grow from each experience. We don’t have to sort it all out; we don’t have to analyze it. By doing something physical, like writing, we are able to release the vicious cycle of dwelling on unhealthy thoughts.

Once the emotions are expressed, healing begins. Our perception of ourselves is key. My only rule about journaling is if I wouldn’t say it to my grandmother or dearest friend; do not write it. I would love to share something I learned a while back, and it’s amazing how the simplest phrase can build and inspire more beautiful thoughts. At the beginning of the sentence, I begin with “I am…” I am a beautiful woman. I am a talented writer. I am a good mother. Then I might write the phrase “I believe…” I believe I can do anything I set my mind to do. I believe I will succeed on (current) project. The words are powerful. Next time you write in your journal, try these phrases: “I am…” “I believe…” “I feel…” “I know…” The magic you create will help build confidence and courage. This morning, I wrote these words in my journal - “I believe I can help others to feel good about themselves.”

I'm on my way...

I’m a writer that hasn’t written; outside of my contracted newsletters. I’m a photographer that has not taken a picture; other than what’s obligated. Like tires screeching on the pavement, my creativity drive stopped.

There’s a silence.

The view in the rearview mirror shows me the path I was traveling. Looking forward with my left hand on the steering wheel, right hand on the shifter, I press my left foot on the brake and with my right foot lightly feathering the gas pedal. The decision is made.