Name Change - Key Elements of Life

I am please to announce onegigglingwriter.blogspot is now keyelementsoflife.blogspot.com

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Over the years I have had various nicknames, usually coinciding with my red hair.  I acquired One Giggling Writer, a good description of me, and it functions as a great penname.  The direction, in regards to this blog, has morphed into something I didn’t expect.  Initially the intent was to write about quirky things that happen in the day-to-day events.  Over time I found myself writing about life and the various things I observed, felt, channeled and always from the heart. 

A while back I was reviewing some of the posts on OneGigglingWriter.blogspot.com and realized the name truly was not fitting for the content.   OneGiggling insinuates humor or comedy, and this blog is more about the elements of life.  For about two months I teeter-tottered on whether or not to revise the title to something more appropriate.  I promised myself I wasn’t going to just slap a new name to the blog and say, “Here ya go.  I hope this works better.”

Two mornings ago, as I lay in bed writing in my journal, Key Elements of Life flowed out of the pen and onto the blank page.  One of my bad habits is to put into motion an impulsive idea; so I waited 24 hours before I considering it and did it impulsively anyways. 

There is a voice that doesn’t use words. 
Listen.
~Rumi

Now the joy is locating passwords for web pages I have not been on in a while and updating as many of the links I’d established over the years.  The next task will be to contact my followers, and fellow bloggers and webmasters so they can update their web sites with the current link.  I feel this is a good change, maybe even a new beginning.  Life is an amazing adventure.

Blessings to all,

Cindy

Shifting Directions

Guiding our desires like a compass, emotions inform us of what feels good and, well, what we’d rather not endure for long periods of time.  We achieve wisdom through personal experience. 

The line “there's no such thing as too much of a good thing” offers a very limited way of thinking and may lead to great boredom.  “Variety is the spice of life” invites more possibilities. 

Perspective is a key element in our expansion.  There will be days when a certain situation encourages one reaction, and on another day the same incident could result in a completely different response.  Remember, there is no right or wrong way, it is what it is, and it is all a matter of discovery.

In recent months, I’ve noticed a shift occurring in our personal beliefs.  Many short and long term relationships, employment, family dynamics, and so forth, are being altered as internal values adjust.  What previously appealed to us no longer brings enjoyment.  The familiar way of thinking, and socially encouraged behaviors we were once taught, no longer resonates with Self.   The desire is intensifying for many to see the fear-based illusions for what they are and explore new realities. 

Yearning for change can, for many, causes a great amount of internal conflict.  A vast majority of self-help books, social media sites, and advice gurus offer the recommendation to just be happy; if you can’t - fake it till it happens.  How can a person be authentic and experience growth if they are forcing themselves to stifle or ignore unwanted feelings?  The buried emotions will come to the surface, so why not deal with them when the moment arises?   It may not be easy…but so worth the effort.  When we deny our emotions, we resist the natural process of healing.  Our heart knows the direction it wishes to travel, just listen.  

A Set of Footsteps

A few years ago, on my way to the job I’d cry driving to and home from, I begged my Divine Companions for help. “Please show me love. Show me that someone actually cares… I would like to experience love.”  Oh, little did I know what the following two plus years would bring.  Careful what you ask for is a slight understatement.  I am grateful.

A question I’m often asked is, “Why would you stay in a job that causes so much heartbreak.”  The reason is simple – intuition affirmed there was an abundance of lessons to be experienced.  Awareness would be brought forth either there or the next place of employment or the next until I embraced Self.  It was my choice on how I followed through with the Shadow work – gracefully or face-plant in the dirt.  I did both. 

"The most fundamental harm we can do to ourselves is to remain ignorant by not having the courage and the respect to look at ourselves honestly and gently." -Pema Chödrön

I wrote, “I will not fight back not will I argue with you.  I am not weak.  This is my choice.  I am strong.  I see, respect and love the person you are.  And forgive you for your actions.” while three co-workers eagerly attempted to tear ME down with some of the most vicious manipulations.  Weeks, months, a period of time later, I spoke with a dear friend and described how it felt like my tower of Self crashed to the ground in a hopeless pile of rubble; I was broken; wondering how was I going to rebuild?  He smiled, and asked why, since I was provided this opportunity, would I want to use the same bricks and foundation?  Defeated and desiring to curl up in the fetal position, all I could think was, “I don’t wanna start over.”  It took a while to fully grasp his words.

Intuition strengthened.  

Choices made.  

Appreciation of Self evolved. 

“It does not matter what the opinions of the outer world are, but it does matter greatly what is within your feeling.” –Guy W. Ballard

We are experiencing life, perceived only by Self.  Truth is in the eye of the beholder is a profound statement.  The descriptions of love, hate, joy, sadness, wealth, poverty will vary based on emotional interpretations of a person in a particular moment.   Tomorrow the definitions will be altered by an action, event, situation, and so forth.   

"When your mind starts telling you what you have to do to make everything okay, don't buy into what it's telling you. The truth is, everything will be okay as soon as you are okay with everything. And that's the only time everything will be okay." -Michael A. Singer

I am grateful for the hardship of the past couple of years.  For me, it confirmed there is no right, there is no wrong, it just is.  Each of us has an important role and purpose.  It reaffirmed the power of our words – especially when the sentence begins with “I am”.  Everything we seek outside of ourselves is available to us – within our heart.  The fear of loneliness, fear of failure, fear of this, fear of that is imagined… it is only an illusion. 

There are choices.  Do you wish to follow the crowd (and their interpretation of how life is supposed to be)?  Do you independently take each footstep on your journey influenced only by Self’s desire?

Shifting Moments

There are a great number of individuals experiencing a shift in their life. A shift in how they feel. A shift in what they believe. A shift in what thoughts we consider true.

Fear is creating a false sense of isolation and uncertainty as relationships, jobs, life situations are changing. Our intuition continues to console us on this journey, while the ego (reinforced by the things we were taught) would have us believe otherwise. Emotions run high one moment, then drag ass the next.

We are in the process of transforming the beliefs at the core of our being from fear, guilt, darkness, lack into that which truly resonates with Self in its purest form ~ love. There is a peaceful solution; we feel it in our hearts. In the manner in which you are most comfortable (prayer, meditation, and so forth) ask for guidance and for this transformation to be gentle, peaceful and loving. Allow yourself to express all the emotions and resist the temptation to bury and ignore what hurts. Focus and explore various ways to experience Self-love, joy, peace, laughter, pride, and curiosity.

When the moment is right, you’ll decide, “I am content in life.” Soon, without realizing it, you’ll ease into claiming, “I love life.” Please understand this process can take as long as you want it too. The decision is yours. No one can say, “In two week, three days, 6 hours and 42 minutes you will have peace of mind.” It would be nice, but the schedule is based on ones desires in a particular moment. It is a choice.

I personally have found it’s difficult to be in a state of fear when I’m too busy giggling and enjoying the moment. A sense of humor has a tremendous impact in keeping the events of the day light and fun.

Revisiting the Bucket

Change provides a wonderful opportunity to explore a new way of being.  As heartbreaking as a change in our relationships can be; there seems to be a large shift taking place.  Whatever the situation, no matter who made the decision, understand life evolves.

When ready, and the decision to move forward is made, it’s time to focus on one’s personal journey.  One avenue is to dig out the Bucket List buried somewhere deep in a night stand, closet or maybe it’s between the sofa cushions.  If lost, then create a new list.  It’ easy to keep promising Self, “This summer I’m going to _____,” and easier not follow through.

Do we avoid these ideas because we are running from something or just running?  Is the internal battle loneliness?  Does the thought of doing something without a companion sends shivers of absolute terror into the core of your being?  If this is familiar, start small.  Do one thing alone and allow the adventure to unfold.  Remember to be gentle with Self, have fun, and follow your adventure.

Creating Synchronicity

As I sat and listened to a farmer explain how he received the items he needed to build several greenhouses, I was in awe. He simply stated, “Lord, I need ___ so I can ___” and usually within a few weeks the items came to him through various means. For example, a man at an auction thought, “Ya know, I think so-and-so could use these.” He raised his hand and bid $5 on the item to purchase for his friend. After arriving at his friend's farm, he is welcomed with, “Ya know, I was just wondering where I was going to acquire ____.”

Intuition and manifestations intertwine our journey and we create by intention and vision. It's when we notice the synchronicities life appears to be more magical. Our thoughts, our words, are very powerful. Be careful what you wish for, is more than a silly cliche.

“Observe the synchronistic events unfolding around you and marvel in the knowledge that you are consciously creating you life experience.” -Lee Simmons

What manifestations have you noticed lately? Create a list of situations you're aware of and watch how life has changed in (un)expected directions. Our journeys were never meant to be stagnate. Like a river current, our desires and dreams move us to new experiences. It's when we stop the flow, or attempt to manipulate it, we form blocks. The resistance can only build up for so long, until the pressure becomes too much and the flow pushes open the release valve.

Curious to see what you can create? Sit and listen to your heart. If you wish, simply state, “I would like ___ so I can ____” with as many details you can think of and envision possessing it. Be patient. Allow it to come freely without demands or deadlines. Watch for the magic of synchronicity.

Words Versus Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough

In August of 2009, this blog started off as a public means for me to track the novel I've been writing. The idea was that if I told you about my progress, I would quit loosing ambition to follow through. I'm afraid to open the computer file and see when the last time I added to the content of the story, but I'm sure it's somewhere around a year. There's a printed rough draft that lays dormant on my desktop having a love affair with the wood-grain Formica. For some reason, I get the feeling the romance is over and I need to do something with the novel. And soon.

‎"The difference between fiction and reality? Fiction has to make sense." —Tom Clancy

As my attention shifted, the words filling the text box evolved into observations; you know, things in life I was witnessing. Tossing in my two cents, I began writing from the heart on ways to empower, encourage and remind readers of the importance of Self-love. Isn't that was life is about – falling in love with Self. The blog took me on a journey that led me to self-publishing Get A Compass Not A Clock full quotes and pearls of wisdom I'd mainly wrote here.

‎"People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in their true beauty is revealed only if there is light from within." -Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Now, things are shifting again. Not sure which direction I'm traveling but I'm up for the adventure. Thoughts of my novel poke and prod me into either finishing the work of art I've started or begin yet another and let go of the practice run. As Stephen King clearly states in his book, On Writing, “Learn to kill your babies.”

‎"Whatever we focus on expands. We focus so much on what's wrong in our lives; shouldn't we focus more on what's right?" -Marianne Williamson

There are so many beliefs, concepts... oh hell, things... that we feel we must hang onto, fix or reevaluate till we get it (what we consider) right. Writing is a passion of mine; always has been. I get such a natural 'high' from it. I can travel the world, even visit different realms and never disturb my Siberian husky sleeping on the floor right next to the casters on my office chair. When I was a kid, I'd take my mother's typewriter to the basement, use a sheet or two of her carbon paper (yes, I know what you're going to say) that I swiped from her desk and wrote my own version of a newspaper. Of course I got the best satisfaction from making my younger (you're welcome, Sis) sister purchase a copy for a nickle or whatever spare change we could find around the house.

”Words hang like wash on the line, blowing in the winds of the mind.” -Rameshwar Das

Sitting here contemplating my next paragraph, the Monkey Mind is begging me to make chocolate chip cookie dough. Not to bake cookies. Oh no... To eat the raw dough. I've conquered the house-cleaning-procrastination gremlins that go around tossing tissues on the floor and spilling houseplants onto the floor till I start cleaning. Ignoring them has gotten easier, however the cookie dough bunnies might be a different story.

‎"Choosing To Be A Victim Of Your Circumstances And Re - Living In The Shadow Of The Pain That Holds You Bonded In The Darkness , As Some Wear It Like A Badge . Yes It Happened But You " Survived " Move Past It." -Donna Genovese

Life Adjustments

Life is unpredictable, to say the least. It's an adventure. At various points it feels as though you're on top of the world; and other times, no so much.

I'm not the type of person to fluff up the subject of Life-Altering Change with artificial sweetener. When the words, “Oh my God, what am I going to do now?” crossed my lips, I didn't want to hear someone tell me, “You'll get over it,” or “Just think how better your life will be.”

Get over it? Be better? I liked things the way they were. They were comfortable. The routine was predictable. I knew what to expect.

"This is a time of adjustment...
This is not a time to re-focus...
This is not a time of planning...
This is not a time to do anything other than adjusting to your circumstance.

It is okay to rest.
It is okay to sit in silence.
It is okay to contemplate.
It is okay to remain motionless...
It is okay to be just as you are in this moment."
-Cindy Kochis

Change provides challenges, especially when you're broadsided with it. Even if I were to win the lottery, it would bring on a whole series of new stresses. Sounds silly, but when you think of it, ”What do I do?” “Where do I go from here?” “What do I expect from ME (forget about what others think)?”

This is a time of adjustment. Allow your emotions freedom and give yourself the opportunity to feel it to the core. That is when the healing gains momentum. When I'm listening to a friend talk about what they are going through, I listen. It's not for me to know why we have to go through these experiences, understand the “lesson” to be learned or even see the point of it... What I am witnessing is, in some way, life adjustments encourage us to find that same kind of love we feel for others within ourSelf – to feel unconditional love for Self.

NaNoWriMo

Attempting to eliminate the ways in which I'm distracted with the intend to spend more quality time focusing on tasks I wish to accomplish, I've seem to have increased my number of social media group enrollments. What? Say it isn't so!

Alas, it is true. One friend and family group, one spiritual based, third one on the list is for writers and the most recent is for NaNoWriMo. National Novel Writing Month, created by Amazon.com, I must say intrigues me. The idea is to write 50,000 words in a month with a goal to have the rough draft of a (or near) completed novel to edit. Broken down, that means 1,667 words written each day. During the month of November, I will have a NaNoWriMo word count widget included on the right column so we can keep track of the progress together.

They say a habit needs six weeks to be broken, how many did they say to establish one? As you've seen in previous posts, I write, I pause, I take a long break, then work on one of my novels again. I suppose there's nothing wrong with my yo-yo attention span with novel writing (mainly because there is no right or wrong - it is what it is). It'll be interesting to see what is accomplished at the end of the 30 days. My goal is to be faithful to my passion for writing. When I pick it up from the long pauses, I always ask myself, "Why did you stop in the first place? This feel so good!"

Message in the Sky

Few thoughts invaded my mind as we rode through the countryside looking at the autumn colors. Nature is beautiful. It doesn't matter why or how the leaves turn to glowing yellows, flaming yellows or deep baritone shades of red. Truly I don't need or even desire an explanation; I revel in the miracle of evolving from one season to another.

Perched on the back of the motorcycle with camera ready to capture the moving scenery, I snapped a picture that took my breath away. A message in the sky. I didn't see the image before I took the photo. There was not a desired outcome or expectation. As soon as the image appeared in the LCD screen, I immediately snapped another picture of the same part of the skyline. The Cherub, male in appearance, looking down on us was gone, however the message was clear.

Our environment provides us with signs continuously. It is our option to pay attention. What is the message you receive when you watch the family of otters play near the riverbanks? How about the deer standing on the edge of the road? When you hear the caw of a crow gliding through the air, what's your first thought?

When something like this happens, trust your intuition to provide its meaning. Be open to the infinite possibilities. The first knowing (thought from the heart) that pops into your head is the message. The more you dwell on whether or not your are right or wrong, the less likely you will understand the intention.

Way, way back when while I was exploring my intuitive skills, a friend would have me interpret dreams. "What do they mean?" she'd ask. "What's your interpretation?" I would write it out, email it back to her and in most cases my version (let's just say) were not textbook. I got frustrated because I never had (and still don't) any interest in getting a dream interpretation book and was flat out told my answers were wrong. It didn't matter what the different symbols meant to me - I wasn't following the guidelines someone else established. Basically, it wasn't to her satisfaction. After some time later, in a completely unrelated conversation the experience was brought up and she informed me on the accuracy of the readings. She was impressed with the personalized insights she would never have gotten from her book.

We tend to discredit what we know (believe) to be true because we listen to the mind. The ego can be ready at a moments notice to dispense doubt like a candy dispenser. Instead of following our hearts, we have become accustom to turning to books and people we consider to be more knowledgeable for justification or approval or their interpretations. The priceless lesson my friend provided me was to trust my intuition and not to rely on another's. In some cases, their insight is based from their personal experience, fears, beliefs, and anything else you'd like to add to the list even though it doesn't pertain to your situation.

If the message is loving, nurturing and supportive, it came from the heart. Fear, doubt, lack, anger, rage and so forth only come from ego (mind) - not the heart. Only unconditional, pure love comes from the heart. Who's messages do you wish to hear?

Perception as Reality

Life's been a bit too serious lately. A new project started, another obligation scheduled and playtime extinguished. Simplifying is a new priority. Not everyone agrees or understands and that's okay. The desire to impulsively splash both feet into a mud puddle outweighs their voiced opinions on how they believe I should spend my time.

In each of us is an innate being, a beautiful ray of light, waiting to help us let go of old habits, destructive behaviors and unhealthy beliefs. Truly, it is a mind game. The more we become aware of the drama of feeling sorry for ourselves (for example), change begins. How would life be interpreted if no one complained about money, relationships, jobs and etc.? Think of the peace we'd experience.

"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

Affirmations and adjusting our words to sound more positive are great as long as we are not attempting to cover up (hide) the underlying issues. Convincing Self with positive, choreographed words is not enough, the truth is in the vibrations of the emotions felt. I can tell you how wonderful life is while feeling completely miserable on the inside. I hid my reality from you for one reason or another. The real work is on the inside where thoughts twist and turn, morph and mesh, and create perception.

What are the labels you place on your forehead when you look in the mirror? Actually, do you even take the time to acknowledge the person in the mirror? Are you so rushed in the bathroom while you're getting ready for another day? Often times we neglect to see past the image of the person looking back. Spend time with that individual. Start the conversation by saying, "Good morning, Sweetie. Let's go have some fun."

Simon Says, "Relax."

A black feather with a white tip rested on the mowed grass only a step to the left of the trail entrance. The splotch of reflective blue on it is what really caught my eye. This will be a perfect addition to my collection at home, I thought. I placed it in the corner of my handbag and arranged it so it was sticking out to enjoy the journey to the bluffs over Lake Michigan.

On the path of mixed clay and small pebbles, I walked through the woods listening to the whimsical music of birds singing, the breeze ever so slightly whistling through the tall trees and the chatter of squirrels. The mind was silent while the senses embraced nature.

A warm breeze swirled around me as I stepped onto the wooden walkway planks leading to the bluffs. The radiant sun felt good as I left the shelter of the forest. A romanticized image of letting the feather float off into the great beyond vanished as I heard voices in the sitting area at the end of the trail. Smiling, I was greeted by a couple, long-time friends, out enjoying a day of playin' hooky and the scenery. The gal politely asked if I was an artist with work on display at the local art center.

I replied with a simple no. "I'm an artist of words, no a painter. I'm a writer," I said graciously regarding the mistaken identity.

Several stories and plenty of laugher were exchanged between the three of us. When I mentioned I used to write the newsletter for two of the local chamber of commerce offices she knew instantly who I was. "Your name is Cindy," said the stranger.

"Yes, I am." It felt good to be recognized ~ a faint hint of fame.

Soon the couple started the walk back to their vehicle. I soaked up the peace and quiet in solitude. Rolling white caps moved across the deep blue waters below. Fresh air filled my lungs. Life is magical.

An hour prior, I spent time with a friend who listened and allowed me the opportunity to answer my own question regarding the radio show I'd established two weeks ago. There's a reason the first Guided Journeys with Cindy did not record well and why I dealt with one hurdle after another in an effort to send the second week's edition to the producer. And, why my revised business cards (no matter what I did) would not print. It was not meant to be. I'm okay with it. I did something incredible. I moved through fear and accomplished something I thought I never could do - be a radio show host. I suppose you could say I can cross that off my bucket list.

The thing is, I knew early on that it wasn't working and I released the need/desire to continue perusing a dream. There is no regret. It was through the conversation with my friend that I truly understood that this is a time for me to enjoy life, slow down and 'smell the roses.' Not a time to be adding more obligations to my list of to-do's. Why am I finding it difficult to just stop all the busy-body stuff and witness the magic? An involuntary smirk broke the silence - "Simon say, 'relax'."

The spell of the moment faded as voices approached the sitting area. It was time for me to continue my journey back to the truck and go home to take a nap. Without hesitation or a resisted thought, I removed the feather from my purse and allowed the wind to take it from my fingertips. Curious to see how far it'd fly, I turned around to see it landed only a step to the left of the entrance of the sitting area. I giggled at irony.

I have made the decision to postpone/end Guided Journeys with Cindy. I cannot begin to thank Sahvanna at Soul's Journey Radio enough for her support, wisdom and the opportunity she provided me. She is a very talented and visionary woman with an important quest.

Our Divine Purpose in life is love of Self.

Giggling My Way Through Adversity

Ever have a couple of days where nothing seems to be going right? Roadblocks to dodge, small animals running out in front of you, white knuckle grip on the steering wheel... and the brake pedal is missing. That's how the past eight days have felt. I can proudly say that my patience has been tested and I giggled through the whole process. Well, most of it anyhow - I did cry on Thursday.

Life is meant to be fun and not taken so seriously. Personal growth is key. Are you willing to step back, look at the situation while in the moment and ask Self, "What aspect of ME am I being made aware of?"

Ah-ha. Is this a characterization, or better yet, a misunderstanding of the phrase be in the moment. Being in the moment doesn't mean to be nonchalant about the situation, it is about being aware. Does this make sense? The more I attempted to make "it" work my way, the faster the roadblocks were built. I spent all of my morning and afternoon, hence why I'm posting this today and not on Monday, trying to get the recorded show of Guided Journeys with Cindy to the producer. I spent countless hours trying to figure out how to get my voice data recorder to download the show onto the computer. Even though it was obvious Plan A was not working, I still pursued it. Then Plan B pooped up. "Yes!" I hollered and giggled with delight.

Plan B was wonderful, exciting and unexpected. Now I felt really good for having spent the $20-25 on a headset/microphone for a completely different project. A new buzz of energy rose and I spent the next hour and a half recording Guided Journeys with Cindy. A key element needs to be noted is the fact the show is 55 minutes long.

So at this point I'm all happy and giddy driving back into town for the high speed wireless internet at the library only to find out the file is too big to email. This beautiful, wonderful show is too flipping big. Ka-thud. My wild and woolly crazy buzzin' energy screeched to a halt. "What?" I exclaimed from inside my truck, "No!" I tried several ways. Nothing worked. Nervous energy started flowing out of control until I realized what I was allowing to happen and turned the focus on the fact that everything will be okay. I giggled and took the revised approach of maybe this is not how it was meant to be, but everything works out for the best.

Then Plan C hits me like a bolt of lightening. Vroom.... I drove back home like a mad woman. I recorded the beginning and ending of the show thinking the producer could cut out the meditation portion from last week's show and plunk in the middle right where it belongs. "Yes! This will work!" I spend another 30 minutes getting Plan C completed and, vroom, back into town for the high speed internet. The email was sent in a few seconds. A message was left on the producer's voice mail during the drive to work giving her a brief description of the events of the day and of the email sent to her.

Later in the evening, when it was too late to do anything regarding the show, I checked my email only to find out that there was no sound on the file. I laughed at the situation. After spending literally all day working on this project, worrying, hustling, getting frustrated only to find this out, I simply laughed. Sahvanna, the producer, reassured me all was well. In the email she wrote, "No problem Cindy, don't stress. :)" How awesome is that? My guess, she was giggling at the absurdity of the situation as I was. She made the show happen and all is well.

Everything works out. I trust that it will... I have faith.

Into the Light

The sun, only a few hours from setting in the western sky, casted magnificent streamers of light through the maple tree branches above and on both sides of the two-track. The inside of the truck illuminated in an intense hue of yellowish orange. Eyes squinted behind dark blue sunglass lenses, I could barely see where I was going. As I crested the hill and started my descent downward, I giggled to mySelf. Only days ago I felt like the cat in the photo walking past a row of 10-15 German shepherds with the phrase underneath that read, "As I walk through the Valley Of Death, I fear no evil..." Although my version was worded a little differently, it still held the same value. "As I walk through the Valley of Doubt, I fear no failure. I shall succeed by continuing this journey placing one foot in front of the other (even if I have to strangle my ego)."

Courage and Naysayer have become closer friends as September 13th approaches. Listening to the nurturing voice that comes from the internal divine being within versus the ego was much easier this time than in other situations. I spent time with both Courage and Naysaer, and wrapped my arms around Shadow in a loving hug and whispered in her ear, "I love you. I forgive you." I can still feel my breath in my ear.

I have no idea where this path will lead. I am simply trusting. There are daily reminders everywhere in humming neon signs with all sorts of encouraging words to dream big. I continue to ask, "What are the infinite possibilities?" Excitement barely describes the brewing energy percolating from deep within.

You are invited to join me on Monday nights, beginning September 13th, at 9pm EST for Guided Journeys with Cindy on Soul's Journey Radio.

Through our powerful thoughts and imagination a safe and beautiful place is created for healing, insight, clarity and love. Meditations open the lines of communication between mind, body, spirit and divine messengers. Know "the answers" will come in a silent moment - when the mind is still.

In this period of growing awareness, I have tapped into my skills as a Lightworker, intuitive healer and writer to assist those that are ready to align with Self. There is a precious being within all of us eager to share love, wisdom, knowledge and Truth. We can learn so much by taking a moment and allowing the voice of the Heart to communicate.

I would like to take a moment to thank Sahvanna for her kindness, guidance and this opportunity.

Namaste'

Journey on the Woven Web

Coincidence? I think not. Several friends proclaim September is a month of rebirth, renew and time to stop thinking of what you’re gonna do and put the plans into motion. This is no long a period of rest. Awesome. I have the motivation, inspiration and the energy to pursue my dreams.

A popular social networking site has connected me with people I would have otherwise never met. Well, hold on, this string of the webbing starts even before the site was a blip in someone’s creative mind. It began the day I met Denise Iwaniw in Traverse City. Sitting in the audience listening to her adventures and information from her new book “Embracing the Mystic Within” opened a new chapter for me. Guided to go to this gathering, I knew something wonderful would blossom from it.

Wait. Back the bus up. The string on this webbing goes further back to when I worked for Marc at the local radio station WBNZ. I jumped at the opportunity to learn how commercials were produced and how the daily log incorporated into the programming. With the eagerness of a curious five year old, I was all ears. Marc taught me a lot about radio and how well-planned silence can be crucial at the right moment. However, too much dead air on a radio station causes dials to be spontaneously rotated to the left or the right.

Public speaking, with everyone’s attention focused on what I have to say, has been a bit easier to do than I anticipated. I never found comfort in standing up in front of a crowd before I facilitated several open forums last fall. I was the one who sat in the back row snickering at some inside joke that crossed my sassy mind.

Back to Denise, she shared with us that evening the internet link to her radio show on Soul’s Journey Radio. I started listening to her show on Wednesday nights when my schedule allowed. Through Denise I met show host Diana Dorell and several other wonderful women. Naturally this is how I was introduced to Sahvanna, founder of Soul’s Journey Radio, Soul’s Journey Community and the newest addition to her line up – Soul’s Journey TV. When Sahvanna inquired on the networking site if anyone had an idea for a new show on Soul’s Journey Radio I sent her an email. A dream evolving into reality…

“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” –M. Gandhi

It amazes me to witness how the web of life has introduced the people and various experiences into my journey. I am grateful for the opportunity to assist those that are ready to align and listen to the inner knowing with the Higher Self ~ the beautiful being within all of us. It is my privilege to make the following announcement:

Guided Journeys with Cindy
www.soulsjourneyradio.com
Relax and explore your sacred space as you listen to Guided Journeys with Cindy on Monday evenings at 9pm beginning September 13th. It is a safe and beautiful place for healing, insight and to hear messages from the Higher Self ~ the beautiful light being within each of us. Visit this blog often for upcoming show information. Ah...the webs we weave.

Loving the Naysayer

Forging past fear appears easy on the big screen as we encourage the hero from the safety of a cushioned theater chair. It can be another thing to stand up in the face of our own fears to move past self-imposed challenges. Fight or flight. Stand up sit down. Do it yourSelf or pray that someone else will come along to handle the situation. An old way of thinking is to have everyone else decide how to find the looming solution or seek out someone willing to stroke the ego enough to boost the internal courage hidden behind the spinal cord to come forth.

It takes practice and determination to let old beliefs fall to the wayside. As mentioned over and over, there is no right or wrong decisions - only awareness. Each choice causes a ripple effect. The problem lies in the lack of decision making while waiting for an exterior source to help. Fear can be crippling as it creates more fear until there is no movement. Yikes! In order to grow, find peace, experience joy, laugh, love, some kind of motion has to take place. Take in a deep breath and allow your shoulders to relax as you exhale. Feel better? Yeah me, too.

Inside all of us is a wise one that knows only Truth. Find time each day to pause and listen to the internal voice through meditation, reflection, daydreaming, staring off into the distant sunset and even during a long hot shower. Learn a variety of techniques to quiet the chattering monkey mind. Excuses can be found as to the why not's. What do you desired? How can you expand your experience? How can it get any better than this?

Recently I've made a significant decision. And it was easy. I trust my inner voice. Yes, it will involve spending money. Yes, it involves going more public with my services. And yes, I am feeling fear. I also know from the depths of my being this is the path in which I desire to journey. Listening to Self during quiet moments, I gracefully understand how many different experiences have lead to this moment - a manifestation. There is a stubborn, nay-saying three year-old girl sitting on my right shoulder that I've asked to be my friend. I'm listening to her fears and embracing them. I am nurturing fear with love. What better way can you think of to develop a healthy relationship? The more I love and get to understand the three year-old naysayer, the softer her tantrums and the complaints lessen. Somehow she will get my attention. I rather it come through love.

Childish Behavior

Without a plan or written list of things to do, the next three days will be what we adults label impulsive as I live in the moment. I was blessed with three consecutive days off in a row. After I did my woo-hoo dance in the office my first thought was, Yes! Thank you. And the following kinda went like this: I can go up to Marquette again. Or I could stay home and finally get my garden taken care of. Oh, camping sounds like fun. I could hang out in nature and do nothing all day. The 'I could's' became overwhelming. Another list started forming, I could make candles, draw, finish writing my novel, clean the closets, make jewelry.... I could... The sound of the needle scratching over the vinyl record filled my mind. Stop! What was I doing? I was becoming exhausted and I still had plenty of days to work before the mini-vacation.

What happened to the days when I was a child and flowed from one moment, one event, one activity to another? There was no itinerary, no plan of action, no list to scratch off the completed projects – it was just what it was. In a way I feel a bit lost as to what to do. Letting go of the I hafta's is a little trickier than I expected. There's this compulsive need to make a list, but refusing to do so is actually quite liberating. As a matter of fact, the normal routine is to have the rough draft of my Monday morning blog post completed by 8am and today the computer was turned on at 9:15.

When we were children, our thoughts were on the activities we were currently participating in not focused on what's next. Shifting from playing with my toys upstairs to romping around the neighborhood with the boys next door to riding bikes to the beach to going to another friend's house and eventually ending up back home in time for dinner. A simple suggestion turned into, “Okay, let's go.”

As I live in the moment for the next couple of days may my need to control every minute fall to the wayside and hopefully spillover into the following days when I go back to the office. Oh look, a humming bird feasting on the nectar of the flowering bush outside the window. Gotta go.

Written Signs

When a particular animal repetitively enters into our day-to-day activities, wonder become curiosity and soon we ask, "Oh, what are the deer trying to tell me?" Like a friend pokin' ya in the ribs to get your attention, the deer have a message. Time might be spent searching the meaning in books, on the internet and some will choose to go within for inner guidance. What about words?

Singular words stick out in a crowd of letters and vowels waiting for me to notice. There have been times when I swear they reach right off the page, grab my shirt collar firmly and say, "Hey, you! Yeah, you! Look at what I'm telling you!" For a period of time the word trust seemed predominate; other times it was love, forgiveness, joy, meditate, and the list continues for pages. Right now it is COMPASSION. I see the ten letter word in articles, quotes posted on social media sites, books, hear it spoken in the post office - everywhere. It's like being back in Jr. High and the English teacher's word of the week is compassion.

"There is a common perception that compassion is, if not actually an impediment, at least irrelevant to professional life. Personally, I would argue that not only is it relevant, but that when compassion is lacking, our activities are in danger of becoming destructive. This is because when we ignore the question of the impact our actions have on others' well-being, inevitably we end up hurting them." -Dalai Lama

The significance of seeing these signs is that it provides us an opportunity for personal growth (if one chooses). There's a sense of 'am I being honest about compassion towards Self and others?' The domino effect can move our internal dialog to ask, "What aspects do I wish to change?" "Is there another way?" "Am I open to exploring new possibilities?"

It is during these moments knowledge expands and the matrix of the Universe exposes a little more of what once seemed hidden. Awareness to options, altered beliefs accepted and again our wisdom evolves. Appreciation for the experiences encourages mindsets to change as the desire to be authentic becomes the focus. Not only do we see the world clearer, we're able to light the way for others who wish to empower the potential within themselves like a lighthouse on a foggy morning.

Leading the Way

Why do we waste so much time desperately searching for a purpose to our life versus experiencing life. What if it were as simple as to explore joy, happiness, contentment? For most, in order to appreciate what they term a 'blessings' conflict is endured. Can you think of a better way to define desires?

You wanted a job; you got a job. You wish your boss was better at managing the staff; you got another job where the boss is a better manager. You wish you had job where the boss was a better manager and you wanted to be paid more money; you got a different job with a better boss and paid more money. You wanted a job, a boss that’s a great manager, paid more money and now you want more vacation time… Can you see how most of us define our desires? This works with every aspect of life – homes, friendships, lovers, relationships, jobs, cars, vacations, etc.

The key element is not to “want” from the lack of not having, but believing it is possible to obtain. It is possible. There are no limits, except those that you believe.

I heard myself repeat the phrase, “It’s not a race,” to a dear friend of mine who is just becoming aware of their gifts. Right now the person is reading, researching and consuming information faster than I could eat a plate of chocolate chip cookies. It’s as though they feel they have to catch up to the others at the party. Funny thing is that was me years ago. A good friend of mine sat down with me and made the point over and over this is not a race, there is no finish line, take your time in evolving and observe as you become aware of/remember what you already know.

The knowledge is there within each of us. Slow down (especially if you feel life is going too fast, chaotic, out of control) and value the time spent alone. Take time to listen to your inner wisdom. It’s there, I promise you. When you connect to the internal wise one you find no reason to seek your answers outside of Self. I suppose for some it can happen in a matter of a short period of time, and others it could take years. With a desire to open up to your own awareness, you can accomplish anything. Recently, while in meditation, I receive the message "Life is about joy, experiencing contentment, and when you (I) do, the feeling from within will be indescribable. Relax and bless all situations. They are your internal compass."

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?