I'm Attracting That?

The repetitive sounds of the waves and the breeze fill my ears with the sweet harmony of bliss. Me and Lake Michigan and wet sand between my toes. Only a few people have claimed their piece of paradise as I find mine. The fold-up chair is placed in a perfect spot so the occasional wave can tickle my feet. Pad of paper and pen ready to capture whimsical thoughts and dreams as odd looking beach bugs scurried on the hot sand running to and fro and rarely in a straight line. These were the thoughts I had yesterday when I began to journal. Quickly they changed as awareness of the law of attraction was making its point.

Here's insight to yesterday's journal entry and a wonderful example of how our vibrations affect what we are manifesting. On the way out here, I was made aware... yes, I noticed it. If law of attraction is listening – paying attention – boy, am I in trouble. At the grocery store, the cashier asked where I was working and if I liked it. My response was less than enthused as I responded, “I'm grateful for the paycheck.” At the post office, the gal behind the counter weighing my box to be shipped mentions she hadn't seen me in a long time and asked where I was working and how I like it. This time I feel a touch of resentment build internally as I told her, “I'm going to the beach for the first time all summer.” The discussion went from me feeling good about my day off to not so good vibrations when I mentioned that I work most weekends and usually work six days a week with several short shifts so I barely hit 40 hours. Wow, at this point my day of relaxation is not feeling so relaxing.

My journal entry then continues: This is not what I want... so how do I manifest things I enjoy, feel valued and respected, receive a fair paycheck for my services, and without all the office drama-luster. My goal is for the highest good for all with harm to none ~ my focus is to assist others. I am a writer with many stories to tell... stories to warm the heart, inspire people to be authentic and encourage personal growth.

“Women are repeatedly accused of taking things personally. I cannot see any other honest way of taking them.” -Marya Mannes

As I sit at my computer this morning allowing my fingers to tap dance on the keyboard I truly see how awareness brings change in various forms. A common thing we as a society whine about is our jobs. I most certainly am not discrediting my employers as I am very grateful I am one of their employees. We have fun and plenty of 'good stuff' is accomplished. The ultimate point being made is to pay attention to how your energy feels when speaking on any subject.

Observing the rise and fall of our vibration can make a difference in our perception. The key element to manifesting is the focus of energy we feel in any given moment. Yesterday, I allowed my emotions to be altered by the lack I was feeling. Today, as I get ready for work, I am feeling gratitude. Joy that I have a job close to home, every time I pick up the phone I have the opportunity to make a new friend and assist them to the best of my abilities, and for the steady paycheck.

Going back to my afternoon at the beach, I made a list of questions to create an internal dialog for change, bring forth emotions and view my desires on paper. I closed the journal after I wrote '...and do what? Listen to the music of the waves and wind.'

Today as you go about your business, note the emotions you feel when speaking – and listening. Are you aware of your manifestations?

Exposing the Internal Chatter

Waking up from an odd dream this morning, I picked up my journal to help sort out the bits and pieces I remember - and the parts I’d rather forget. It was odd. Really strange. As the words were written, the internal dialog morphed into reasons why it's a good idea to journal. It didn’t take me long to realize the subject of today’s blog.

Sitting with a pad of paper and a pen, allow the internal conversation to flow - Self-Love 101. For some it can be considered Problem Solving 101. Who better to answer your questions and advise you on your quest? Who knows you better? Here’s a more important question, “Who has your best interest at heart?”

Journaling is a great way to get thoughts out of our heads and to better understand our emotions. Some pretty amazing things can be discovered this way. Unresolved resentments all the way to hidden joys are given the opportunity to flow from deep within the subconscious and into awareness. During the writing process is not the time to overanalyze. Let the words be as they appear. Once on paper you can decide to review the creation or get rid of it. Embrace or release - author’s choice.

"Remember, there is a creative energy that wants to express itself through you"; "Don't judge the work or yourself. You can sort it out later"; "Let God work through you." -Julia Cameron (The Artist Way, published 1992, 2002, page XV)

The process of the internal dialog can have significant healing properties. Explain and describe your emotions (good and bad, no holding back) the way you feel in that very moment. Once exposed, you can determine if you wish to continue this state of mind or if you want to make a change. Awareness provides us the key elements and opportunity to learn more about me, myself and I. We have multiple personalities that expect to be heard. We embody the Worker, the Slacker, the Lover, the Loner, the Adult, the Child, the Creator, the Destroyer, the Overwhelmed, the Calmness, the Aggressor, the Peace-Maker and there's more within. Each one has a voice and craves attention.

Writing out desires assists in clarifying the I want’s and can begin to pave a trail for the journey, or at least machete chop the jungle growth out of the way. Used as a tool, it can help plot out the baby steps to reach the intended goal. Some people use this technique as a way to work out a five year plan.

For me it was a tool to clear my head and, by chance, accomplish today’s post. After I finish this article, I believe I shall work on that Gratitude List I keep in my journal.

Keep writing, my friends.

Trusting the Chosen Path

Returning to the truck, water squished between my toes inside the hiking boots that once, years ago, bore a waterproof tag. The torn and worn beyond comfortable jeans are soaked from the rain jacket down. Rain water dripped from my bangs into my eyes. I was literally soaked from the top of my head to the soles of my feet and haven’t felt that refreshed in a long time.

Yesterday, after waking up from my second nap of the day, my body begged for movement. Working my backyard garden in the rain is a common practice, but not what I was craving. I wanted longer strides to my steps. A raising of the heart rate. A hike on one of the nearby Nature Preserve trails. The gentle summer sprinkle turned to rain and as the first few steps were firmly placed on the path it began to pour.

The 1.3 mile trail is marked by a well-traveled path. Signs are not necessary here. The aroma of wet cedar, birch trees, grasses, wild flowers and countless other plant life exhilarated my sense of smell. The entrance is in a thick cluster of cedar trees leading the adventurer to an area where, this time of the year, the thick brush is almost taller than the five feet five inches I claim. The corridor weaves to the left, then the right and at points I am unable to see more than a few feet ahead of me. This was when the phrase a friend offered to me to ponder returned from memory. He said, “Trust in the trust of trusting.”

Read the line again. “Trust in the trust of trusting.” The meaning, for me, is profound when repeated aloud and becomes even more so each time I repeat it internally. It’s easy to say we trust something, however to believe and feel the unconditional faith is forever evolving. To relax and be free of the need to control a situation or circumstance. The thought, “If you want to hear God laugh, tell him your plans,” just now crossed my mind.

Approaching another tight corner I trusted the path would lead me safely to the clearing I know is ahead. Something seemed different. A sense of unfamiliarity. I've walked this trail countless times, in all sorts of weather conditions; under blue skies, trees swayin’ in the harsh fall winds, snow up past my knees. For a new-comer walking this particular part of the path where the tree branches hang low and the bush full of red berries have overgrown the space may pose intimidation and the sense of the claustrophobia. A choice will be made to either trust the path is safe or be convinced by internal forces to turn back towards the vehicle with the intent to try a different day.

The deeper into the swampland I got the more I understood how my emotions accurately measure the level of trust. I know I will be okay. I know that everything has its season and it always works out. But this refers to the future, what about right now? How do I feel about work, my relationships, my financial situation? At what level am I trusting that in this moment I am being taken care of by the Universe? Am trying to control it? Am I, as the saying goes, giving it to the angels and God to handle? Or am I holding myself back from the joy I wish to experience? What am I allowing life to be?

Pausing on one of the sturdy wooden bridges, I watched the creek flow effortlessly towards the lake. The temptation to release tears of frustration was there, yet something lit up inside my heart and I knew instantly everything is bliss. Life is good. A little further down the trail, as I wiped the rain off my face again, I giggled at the thought, I trust the waterproof mascara will hold up under the rain.

Sit Monkey. Sit.

See, feel, the knowing within the heart center. It is there - waiting patiently. Distraction can be labeled the culprit, but it is only an action. The monkey mind (ego) often time finds other things for us to tend to versus seeking answers, peace, balance, harmony.

Meditation is a common method for quieting the monkey mind so the intuitive voice can be acknowledged. The line, "I don't have the time," is a well-used excuse and one I've used. There's always another load of laundry to throw in the washer, floors needing vacuuming, dishes to be washed, dust bunnies to be rounded up and put outside, a dog wanting to be groomed and heaven forbid if we didn't clip our toe nails! I almost added cleaning the closets but then you'd know I was over dramatizing.

In the silence of our mind, our spirit is able to communicate with Self on many levels. The hesitation or resistance to find our answers through the means of meditation is the ego wishing to control or stifle the situation. Growth cannot happen without light and light comes from love. Believe, or better yet, know that you can do - be - create anything. Become aware of the time spent worrying needlessly and avoidance of personal growth. Change occurred through observation. Nurture the loving being within and the self-imposed barriers will begin to dissolve.

Near the beginning of one of the guided meditation, I wrote, "Feel your thoughts soften as the monkey mind slows down and takes a seat on a comfortable recliner in the back of your mind. He is comfortable. He is silent. This is your time." Meditation can take as long as a deep breath in and the exhale out, or as long as an hour. The choice is up to you.

In the calmness of the mind, the heart center opens to the continuous flow of giving and receiving of love without resistance. Personal healing and the strengthening bond of Self-love permeates to and from your being. Witness the miracles. Open your mind to the powerful energy you already possess. Nothing can stop you from fulfilling your desires. For if you believe, it must be. So it is...

Wordless Conversations

Wordless conversations surround us. Signs and symbols provide awareness to the truth within. The messages serve as reminders, encouragement, inspiration, warning, in-sight. And they are there, when you see them.

Recently I composed a Guided Meditation titled ‘Nature Within.’ Each time I read it to an audience, the response is magnificent. Words cannot begin to describe the heartfelt emotions emanating from the group. After we’ve had a few minutes to ponder the journey to our sacred space, I ask, “What is the one thing that stood out for you.” It amazes me, a sense of a proud mother, to hear the moment that was to them profound. Of course, I respect everyone’s privacy and no one has to divulge anything they wish to keep silent.

When we look to nature, we find peace. The intriguing part is each symbol can provide a different meaning from one person to another - one situation to another. For example when I see a deer grazing behind near my home, it reminds me to be gentle on my Self and express only loving emotions. Other times the doe can signify that I need to slow down, take time to be aware. A sign received especially while driving. The meanings I receive may or may not vary from you. Each time I go to search the meanings from a book, I sense that I already know the answer. I do. You do, too. All our answers can be found internally when we pay attention. Meditation is a wonderful way to get tuned in, tapped on and connected with our divine Self. It is a gift we can give Self and unites us with our own awareness – our truth.

I would like to share with you a few of my experiences. A single coyote standing in the middle of the road about a half mile ahead, motionless, watching me arrive in my truck. Fear evaporates and is transformed as I see the innocence in his eyes and the expression of unconditional love in his gaze. The turtle on a road far, far away from a natural water source served as a reminder that home is within. It is an emotion I carry with me. A house is a structure; home is the energy and emotions felt. The crows on the side of the road symbolize multi-dimensional information while to others they may see it as a sign of magic or a message from the wise ones. The interpretation is ours to explore. Think about a recent sighting you paused and thought, “What are you trying to show me?” Usually the first thought provides insight to the answer you seek. Here’s where you need to pay attention, is the internal dialog coming from a loving space or from the ego (monkey mind)? I suggest listening to only the communications from the heart.

Explore the following list. What does each represent to you?
Hawk
Dolphin
Butterfly
Deer
Coyote
Ant
Rose
Tulip

Download the FREE worksheet: Nature Within

Time in Motion

11:11 "Careful of what you’re thinking." Dabbling in numerology that is the line I think of when I see a series of ones. Usually the numbers are noticed on a clock; ironic since I quit wearing a wrist watch after writing the quote “Get a compass, not a clock.” A handful of minutes ago as I walked into my bedroom, the alarm clock read 11:11. The line careful what you’re thinking entered my mind and shifted to “Bless the thought you’re feeling in this moment.”

The movie The Shift with inspirational speaker Dr. Wayne Dyer is currently paused in the living room. The intent was to grab my journal and capture a line from the movie that resonated very deeply within my spirit, but after catching the time and receiving the message, I am writing to you and myself.

“To touch someone’s life is more valuable than any amount of money.” –Dr. Wayne Dyer The Shift

When we focus on ourSelf and ask the question how may I serve, I’m learning – no, I’m witnessing, doors open and abundance flows. I’m not talking about financial abundance, although that’s always welcome, I’m talking about inspiration, ideas, creative ah-ha moments, dharma, purpose. Life is about being happy, finding joy, experiencing peace and doing the things we love. When we let go of the need to please others and do what we believe they want - magic happens. A part of being authentic is finding your music, what makes your soul sing, what fills your heart with passion and allows you the ability to lose track of time while you breathe in life.

“Bless the thought you’re feeling in this moment.” -Cindy Kochis

Highways of Thought

Patience seemed to be the reaccurring theme as I drove to Marquette Friday morning. It was as though the Universe was reminding me to slow down, take my time, observe the journey, all events happen in perfect timing. Funny thing is I am one of the most patient people you will meet when it comes to receiving holiday gifts. However… when it comes to change, I want it now. Waiting for the green light to go is almost tortuous for this redhead. There is change in the air and I can feel it percolating. Sometime in the near future I will be moving. The ‘when’ part isn’t as important as the acceptance of the idea – moving. As I crested the hill on M-28 a few miles west of Christmas, a town well known for the wooden replica of Santa and Mrs. Claus, there was a sense of I’m almost home. The view of Lake Superior from this vantage point is breathtaking. This relaxed, tension releasing exhilaration felt familiar as though I had come over a hilltop a mile from the road I grew up on. “I’m home.”

The relaxing time up north was spent with family. My cousin Robert passed away in March at his home in Wisconsin and this past Friday his parents hosted a memorial service in his honor. Uncle Terry play Amazing Grace on his favorite clarinet before closing prayer for his son's service. This family tradition started long before I can remember and this was by far Terry's best performance as we sat in silence with freefalling tears. The power of his music embraced all of us. A previously unnoticed garden wind chime twinkled slightly in the still air. Bobbie was there sharing his unconditional love and support in the celebrated moment.

Family and friends joined Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Terry in their garden to continue the celebration of Bobbie’s life. Young children played and investigated the rock pathways, snuggled and napped. Adults shared in memories and plans for the future, food and laughter. A dragonfly perched on a flower was photographed by the camera-packing individuals. Handfuls upon handfuls of wild blueberries were picked from the patch behind the floral garden. Everyone felt at home.

It was good for me to slip away from routine and share the ticking of the wrist watch with family whom I hadn’t seen in about two and a half years. I resisted the temptation to call in sick to work on Sunday and headed back to my Lower Michigan reality late Saturday afternoon. The six hour drive offered plenty of one-on-one time with Self to think, sing to the radio and devour chocolate peacefully without having to share. My thoughts seem to focus on what do I want? If I could create anything, be anything, do anything…what? A fair number of questions were answered listening to the humming of tires rolling effortlessly down Highway 2 and across the Mackinaw Bridge. Others were left unanswered until the time is perfect for revealing. As a dear friend of mine reminds me often, “It’s all in the enfoldment. Allow it to be.”

Silence the Bully

Self-talk can be more vicious then the roughest, toughest fourteen year old bully leaning on the chain link fence in the schoolyard playground. Do you voice sincerity or can your words of cruelty out wit and pulverize Self-confidence before the bully even has a chance to open his mouth? People tend to believe in the demeaning thoughts without even realizing it. Go ahead and make a simple mistake like not entering in a payment into your checkbook and finding the expensive error on a holiday weekend. What would your monkey mind (ego) say?

The beautiful part of becoming aware of a once unnoticed belief is when the discovery is made. The Oh... moment when the chin lowers towards the chest and the “I'm sorry, but it'll be okay,” is said silently to Self. It's fine to experience absent mindedness. Considering there is no right way, no instruction manual, you cannot get anything wrong. It is through perception we interpret what's good or bad.

In a conscious effort to living what we feel is a better life, some people overextend their reach and set their expectation too high. They strive for imaginary perfection, doing what they believe others expect of them, and when they fall short lack of worthiness settles in the mind. Learning to be gentle on Self is vital. The harmful words expressed internally will hold us back from joy, peace, harmony...

Attempt as many times as it takes to turn the mental dialog around to listen to what you wish to hear. Sit quietly and begin to talk to Self as you would your best friend, or ninety-four year old grandmother. Console the internal being with encouragement. Embrace her with comforting feelings of forgiveness and love. Talk to the inner child with kindness and with the nurturing voice of a loving parent. Focus on the qualities of life you value and deserve. Cry if need be; it is through the tears we release so many emotions. There is so much power in our non-verbalized words. Use them to reinforce the joy, peace and harmony on your journey of personal growth. Know that life is meant to be loving and kind, you are not here to suffer. Forgive the experiences in your life that have created change. See the situation as a blessing to motivate your desires. Tell Self your dreams and ambitions. Feel the movement of excitement raise your spirits and surround you. Never give up on hope. Miracles happen when you speak with love.

Walking on Words

Tuned in, tapped on to all those words of wisdom. How often is a person's opinion and love-lacking advice taken to heart? I've met a few people who have the ability to toss those conjoined letters and vowels and scatter them onto the floor like confetti with total disregard to the manipulated meanings. There are days I wish I could do that – throw my self-doubts and worries into a heap and simply walk away. Wouldn't that be nice. Like dirty laundry piling in the utility room hamper, eventually it will start to stink and reproduce like rabbits. I can see the headlines now, “Overpopulation of People's Stuff! Watch Your Step!”

Advice seems to be everywhere telling us 'be happy,' 'let it go,' 'no one can take away your dignity without your permission' and yadda dadda dadda dadda. But... What if you work in a hostile environment where the lies and deceptions are so intertwined into the fabric of the office truth no longer exists. The relationship in which you are completely blind to the unhealthy nature of its existence. Or the friends and family members who voice their dissatisfaction to the decision to rock the boat and alter your life to fit your personal desires. There are so many to-the-core realities the simple quote band-aids cannot fix. The phrases of inspiration are reminders and affirmations to help guide desires; a target in the wind for you to shoot towards. All attempts to bury and stifle raw emotions felt without expressing them one way or another will backfire.

If you want change, make the decision. I know, easier said than done. Don't hold back your emotions. In the mood to giggle? Go ahead. Inspired? Create something new. Having a rough day when the weight of the world seems to be crashing down on your shoulders is okay. It's bound to happen. Have the courage to cry. It takes more internal strength to be vulnerable than to manufacture the statement, “everything's fine.” Give power to all of your emotions. Allow the drop-to-your-knees-in-pain moments to be felt and release the rivers of tears to cascade down your cheeks. Be what it is you are feeling in this moment. Once the release has expelled, finding the joyful pieces you left nearby will be easier to gather.

Positive changes begin with seeking the blessing in your current situation. Big, small, it doesn't matter as long as you work towards a loving, nurturing relationship with Self. Practicing peace daily with your internal vocal cords will strengthen your focus and assist you in detaching from the unwanted drama. What does the intuition say when you ask, How is this affecting me now? For you, my words of wisdom goes like this: be who you are without hesitation - be authentic - be You.