Blossoming Opportunities

Opportunities are popping up like daisies with the winds of change rearranging a few things I wasn't anticipating. There are a handful of weeds going to seed in my garden of life and I think it's wonderful. They serve as reminders that the experiences are not meant to be flawless. They are lessons yet to enlighten and possibly challenge current beliefs. Perfection is only interpretation – an illusion. It is what it is and we are eternally evolving.

“This or something better is now manifesting for me in totally harmonious and satisfying ways for the highest good for all concerned.” -Shakti Gawain

A couple of years ago I wrote the quote "Get a compass, not a clock" to serve as a reminder to follow the heart at its pace and stop keeping track of exterior influences. So often we seek guidance from outside sources and shushing the all-knowing voice within. At times we are in such a hurry to get to the mind-made finish line we don't take the time to become aware of internal wisdom. We manifest every situation we deem good and bad into our existence. “Careful what you wish for” is a statement worth remembering.

As for me in this moment, I'm still getting used to the idea of what I will term as 'an upcoming life altering change' I've recently discovered. The puzzle pieces are still falling into place and some still hidden from view. The missing pieces are probably on the floor under the chair I'm sitting on; if you have spent time working on puzzles at your dining room table I'm sure you understand the metaphor.

There are many changes happening right now for a large number of people. Isn't wonderful? Sure, a little scary because the journey is a bit unpredictable. See, that's the joyful part. We are breaking new ground and pushing through the mind-made jungle to get to our desired destination. The key element is to be patient, easy on Self and rest when needed. There are no deadlines. Find ways to let go of the accumulated stuff (mental and physical) that no longer serves your highest good. Like a fluttering butterfly in the garden - travel light. New opportunities will feel magical when there isn't so much baggage to carry on the adventure. Enjoy the upcoming changes as awareness expands and opportunities blossom.

Are you in the midst of an unexpected change? Share your positive insight with me.

Pick a Voice, Not Just ANY Voice

What do you deserve? Are you unknowingly holding yourSelf back because you don't feel worthy, smart or talented? Thoughts of, I'm not good enough. Someone else has already done it. So-and-so is much better than I am. Whose voice are we listening to? If we are focusing our attention on the voice of our Inner Self – Higher Self – the Universal voice – Heart Source – God – that part of You that speaks Your truth – it would express only love.

We could plunge into the deep well of ego, but it's not how I want to share this precious time with you. Not today. Let's journey in the direction of Self awareness. There is peace in our monkey minds when we listen to the soft, loving, gentle and sometimes barely above a whisper inner voice that is Self.

The transition of manifesting reality comes from emotions towards Self, what we believe we're worthy of and where we focus our energy consciously and subconsciously. We deserve to be loved. We deserve to enjoy all of life's bounty. We deserve limitless amounts of joy. You and I have infinite potential to accomplish any and every -thing by releasing fear, the sensation of lack, and doubt. Some days it will seem easier to do than others, but keep practicing. That's all it is. You cannot do this wrong since there is no right way. It is the repetition of strengthening our Inner voice that encourages it to become loud and clear.

Meditation is one way of establishing a stronger connection to Self. By taking even a few minutes when waking up, in a stressful moment, in a joyful moment or as you close your eyes before sleep, will assist in developing your bond with Self. There are many versions of meditation: sitting with legs crossed, hands palm side up resting on the knees and eyes closed; listening to a guided meditation; repeating a phrase/mantra; and even watching the sunrise/sunset. The list is long and I believe you will find your favorite way of traveling inward and finding your sacred space within.

There is so much in life to explore. No matter what someone else has ever said to you to cause any form of heartbreak, they are only words. It's time to step out of the muck, cleanse off and release the binding affects that hold you back. Take a moment and tell Self, “I love you. I respect you. I forgive you and all that have brought harm to me or others. I deserve to give and receive only the purest of love.”

Give your dreams and desires the freedom from the less-than-loving voice to experience your Soul's expressions. -Cindy Kochis

Calming the Great Lake

Drifting closer to sleep thoughts rolled in and out of my mind like waves of Lake Michigan lapping onto the sandy shoreline. Relaxation consumed my body until I internally heard the words, “What do you think about in the empty space between turning off the lights and sleep cradles your mind, body and spirit?”

I ran to my office to hunt down my journal and wrote until 1:20am.

Since work, the dread of, seems to be a common issue, let’s spend a few minutes on the subject. I’ve said it, you’ve said it, “Ugh, I don’t wanna go to work. I hate Mondays.” If the job is undesirable, consider ways to move closer towards something more suited to the passion seated inside the creative mind. Will taking a new look at your employment help to ease the frustrations? Currently I work in customer service and try to look at is as though I am going to meet a lot of really wonderful people every day. Yes, some days are a little harder than others, but I continue drawing my attention to the growing gratitude list. I live within a 15 minute drive. I work with some really wonderful and carrying co-workers. The perks are generous. And so forth. Do remember I am human and bad days happen; on more than one occasion the little cheerleader within has thrown her pom-poms on the floor and kicked them to the side. Emotions settle, I realign with the perspective I want to place focus on and life is magical again.

We are what we think. We are what we focus our energies on and in reviewing a situation, the more we search for signs to establish and alter our truths. In silence of nightfall, are your thoughts centered on love and the day’s joyful events or are you dwelling on loneliness, disappointments, lack, pain?

“Perception ~ take a new look at it. ” –Cindy Kochis

Once aware of this ah-ha moment you start to see how the internal dialog converts Self-talk into belief. When you look in the mirror, what do you say? Are your words gentle, kind, loving and rich with encouragement? Who’s in control, the monkey mind or you?

Fall in love with yourSelf. You are a beautiful person blessed in so many that you may or may not be aware of in this moment. Treat yourSelf as you would a close friend. Nurture yourSelf as you would a child. Embrace yourSelf as you would your grandparent. Trust youSelf enough to know you are perfect in every way just as you are today. Create a gratitude list of the things that provoke joy. Discover the components in life that bring you closer to the person within yourSelf.

Don’t be upset if it takes time to change thought patterns. Realize how many years you’ve developed this habit and understand it takes practice to dissolve it. Please be easy on yourSelf and with determination to experience peace of mind, you can manipulate the white caps waves from crashing with mighty force onto the mental shore to gentle ripples of water.

Goddess Impact

A relationship can last a lifetime or as long as it takes to smile at a stranger. Each person we encounter will have an impact whether at home, work, even while shopping for eggs and milk.

On Monday, I wrote the line, “No one will ever love me like he did.” It's a very true statement. People may have similar qualities, however we are all unique with our special way of experiencing life. We interpret each interaction differently based on moods, age, circumstances, environment, peers and how we emotionally feel towards the individual in that particular moment.

On the flip side, what impact do you have on others? Do you walk around without regard to those around you or do you go out of your way to be kind and loving? Are you in the mood to seek peace or on the warpath? There are no right or wrong answers to the question, only the extraction of awareness. You have every right to feel the way you do without exception, without apologies, without hesitation. It's not healthy to resist and attempt to stifle emotions. Like a river, if they are blocked and flow is prevented, the energy behind it builds until it either overflows or bursts.

“There are no right or wrong answers to the question, only the extraction of awareness.” -Cindy Kochis

There are many avenue in which to express what you are feeling. The objective is to find what works best for you. For example you could call a close friend, write in a journal, meditate, and even beating a little blue ball in a game of racquet ball will help in some situations. The goal is to move the energy out of the system/mind without hanging onto any unwanted residual affects. In other words, retain the memory of things that make you feel good and let it go of the rest. Ask yourself, “Is this for my highest good?”

Unless you are in the performing arts, don't waste your time (or mine) pretending to be someone you are not; well, only if you want to. Part of being authentic is being you – in the Now. I've surprised many people with my inability to react the way they expect. I will not be cheerleader if I'm not in the rah-rah mode, I will not be the over-actor, I will not fake it for anyone at anytime anywhere.

I have set the intent of “for the highest and best good for all” placing Self first before everyone else. By treating mySelf as a Goddess worthy of a wonderful life experience, it naturally overflows on to how I impact others.

Claim Your Words

'Easier said than done' is a phrase I feel needs a bit of tweaking. How about it's easy? There is power within our words; messages manifesting among the characters. Do you say statements like, “I can't afford ___,” “I need to lose weight,” “I am no good at ___...” Oh, here's one that just popped into my head, “No one will ever love me like he did.” Now there's a sentence worth celebrating (subject for another day).

In our efforts for Self empowerment, it's wise to be conscious of the thoughts we use casually in our conversations. Use loving and gentle terminology when describing the situation, others and Self. We claim all phrases when it begins with I and I am. Stop and think about it for a moment, what are you declaring? Changing thought patterns (habits) can be simple. Be compassionate towards all things.

“Believing is more than a cluster of consistent thoughts... It is the emotion you feel at this very moment that speaks your inner truth.” -Cindy Kochis

Manifesting starts the moment we give the thought consideration. Aligning with Self is easier than we are led to believe. Set the intention to seek ways to feel better, sense more love, and see the blessings. In other words, use your internal vibrations to accelerate your healing. Where ever we place our attention indicates what we are pursuing. Miracles do happen.

“The way to avoid repeating unwanted situations is to talk about wanted situations. Talk about what you do want; and discontinue dialogue about any unwanted experiences, situations, or results.” -from The Vortex, written by Ester and Jerry Hicks (page 61)

It is easy to assess the power within words. Acknowledge and respond accordingly to your body's reaction. How to you feel when you listen to someone tell you about their child's accomplishments? How do you feel when you listen to the office drama? How do you feel when a lover shares their dreams and hopes? How do you feel when someone rants about how bad their life sucks (disclosing full details)? How do you feel?

Thoughts of the I in Me

What's up with how people talk about themselves? Recently I was in a clothing boutique and overheard a woman cut herSelf down to the point I was uncomfortable to be within earshot. Sure, years ago you would have heard me rattle on about my obnoxious red hair. I stand out in a crowd of blondes and brunettes. Time has lapsed, the opinion has evolved and I treasure this gorgeous wavy hair that flows over my shoulders and down my back for it is unlike everyone else's. I stand out in a crowd.

Uncertain where this post was leading, I took a break and walked 13 minutes and 27 seconds on the treadmill. I stopped when the cliché what came first, the egg or the chicken filtered into my noggin. Huh? “What came first, the belief or the observation?” Better yet, “What do you expect?” Are you listening for the words of inadequacy versus encouragement? Some people will say such horrific things about themselves hoping the audience (those listening) will do everything possible to convince the speaker they're incorrect. Is this a form of reinforcing disbelief? Why do we do this to ourSelf? The more I write this entry the more questions I create. How can we move out of this vicious cycle of internal destruction?

There's a well known saying, we are hardest on ourselves than anyone else. What would happen if we were to take 5 minutes a day and list only the positive things we contribute to the world? Shame on you if the immediate thought, “this will be a short list,” crossed your mind. With practice, the list will grow in length. There is power in our words - more than we realize. Words have the ability to transform, move, shift, create, inspire, encourage, connect and (most importantly) define our beliefs. You are special in so many ways. What you contribute to the world is unique and is of value. When you speak of yourSelf, seek ways to express your individuality with worthy statements.

Free download: Power of Words worksheet.

Please note: This blog post is meant to encourage awareness in Self-talk. If you are depressed or feel you need help, please seek assistance from a certified professional.

Rules - Smules

What priorities? I'm having fun. Updated business cards are printed and ready to be cut, a pile of items to bring with me accumulate beside my desk and lots of wo-hoo energy buzzin'. Preoccupied with getting ready for the group Guided Meditation I'm leading tonight I neglected writing my Monday morning blog post and there's not a lick of guilt fillin' this mind.

Rules – smules. Whose rules are the right one to follow anyways? And who's to say they aren't wrong? We live in a world where we are led to believe someone else has the power to dictate what's to be right. Are we havin' fun yet? There is nothing wrong (or right) about how we move from moment to moment ~ it is what it is so do it your way. Sure, this way of living has bugged the snot out of people who believed they were an authoritative figure in my life (bosses, co-workers, friends, pedestrians...) and I'm okay with it. I'm such a rebel-rouser. My intent is always set for the highest good for all with harm to none. Being true to yourSelf empowers and strengthens Self-Love. Do what feels right to you and worry less about what others think.

“You can make somebody laugh, but you can't make them happy.” - Laurie Kornilow

When we delay our dreams due to the fear of what will others think, we are not allowing Self the ability to freely fulfill our desires. We tend to waste too much time worrying. What if... Should I... Will this cause... To be honest, I used to have a worry-infested mind. Like any habit (and that's all it is), it takes practice and determination to stop beating yourSelf up in this manner. Trusting everything has a purpose has had a substantial impact in my growth.

”You've done it before and you can do it now. See the positive possibilities. Redirect the substantial energy of your frustration and turn it into positive, effective, unstoppable determination.” - Ralph Marston

Strictly out of fear, three years ago I would never have considered telling people I'm an intuitive healer. Two years ago I would never have told anyone I'm leading a group Guided Mediation. Today I sit before you doing my Monday morning finger-tapping keyboard dance at 2:30 pm asking, “What will you accomplish in this moment?”

Converting into Words

Deep within each of us is a beautiful Self loving us more than words can describe. Steady waves of pure energy from God/Source/Universe/Oneness fill us with each passing moment. The advantage of being human is the internal vibration has the ability to fluctuate.

So how do you feel? Want to celebrate with dance and laughter? Want to cry? It's okay to cry, be angry, feel the unfairness and unjustifiably diminished. When the wave appears to be receding, take a moment to evaluate your alignment with Self. Bless the current circumstances for it shows the theme your Soul wishes to focus upon and grow. Your emotions are your guide. Give yourSelf permission to feel all the sensations without judgment, criticism or fear.

Maintaining a daily journal will assist in moving indescribable and unresolved emotions into language. It is liberating to convert feelings into words. Write from the current point of view to really get it out of your system. Scream out from the top of your lungs if you want, “This sucks!” Let yourSelf fall apart so you can move through the undesired moment. When the wave of emotions simmers to a ripple, ask, “How can I best serve my Self?” Seek ways in which to feel good and raise your vibration of love. Know you are loved. Unconditional pure love is always flowing to you from the Universe ~ accept and embrace it as yours.

We learn from each other, please share your techniques with others how you align with Self.