Accepting the Answer

The concept of ask and you shall receive is one I once followed loosely; I have witnessed its power and believe in it faithfully.  Like most people, I'd pray for something wonderful to happen, hoping it will fit neatly into the list of wants, begging for it to be all roses and bright sunshiny joy.  It is in my experience:  when we demand an answer, or focus so hard on the outcome, we lose sight of what we initially requested and it seems as though our inquiry fell on deaf ears…again.  Life is the greatest teacher; I continue to learn to ‘expect’, ‘trust’, and ‘accept’.  I expect a response will be provided clearly and at the right moment.  Trust it will be for my highest good.  I may not always like the answer, but I accept it.

Yesterday I posed an array of questions regarding inspiration on elementsofbeautystudio.wordpress.com (another blog I write).  Basically, how and what tools do you use to stir up the creative juices?   Less than two hours later, while scrolling through a spam email folder, I found a letter from a woman who had purchased my self-published book ‘Get A Compass Not A Clock’ from a local bookstore.  V.G. wrote the following:  “Your writing is captivating and transcended me into a quiet and meditative place.  I bought your book and am thinking I’d like to get a couple of more copies for friends and my 26-year-old daughter.”  

"Many blocked people are actually very powerful and creative personalities who have been made to feel guilty about their strengths & gifts." ~Julia Cameron

The first email I read this morning was from a local publication, it stated:  “Unfortunately, the piece is not for us."  For years I carried the belief that to be considered one of the good local writers I had to fit into this social group of authors.  After reading the rejection letter I heard a heartwarming voice tell me, “This was necessary.” 

In this moment, I sit at my keyboard knowing I am paving the path for others to explore their courage and express themselves authentically.  I am proud of my natural talents and of who I am.  I am grateful.  This lesson helped to remove one more writer’s block and reminded me to trust God will lead me to people who I inspire and encourage - and vice versa.  

To answer the questions, "What inspires me?"  You.

“Your writing is captivating and transcended me into a quiet and meditative place.  I bought your book and am thinking I’d like to get a couple of more copies for friends and my 26-year-old daughter.”  -V.G. 

Thank you...

Brave Enough to Walk Away from Drama

They strike at the office.  They seek out the opportunity to do it at family gatherings.  They attack your friends and loved ones without mercy.  They are ‘drama queens’, otherwise known as the ‘pot stirrers’.  Like a contagious virus on the kindergarten playground they spread unwanted, harmful, nasty and sickening things around.  And what a shame...

Drama is commonly created by those who are bored and/or unhappy with their own lives. It’s almost like they feel empowered by distributing untruths and half truths when in reality they are actually belittling themselves in front of an audience.  Sometimes the stories are made up in search of attention and approval. 

Here’s a couple of questions to ponder:  Why would someone intentionally deceive?  Are they insecure or jealous?  Do they feel insignificant?  Do they attack other people because it makes them believe they superior, grander, bigger, more important?  

This morning I wrote to a dear friend, whom I've known most of her life, the following (edited slightly):  “Here’s my advice:  Be who you are, live with no regrets, laugh as often as you can, LOVE every precious moment, and never ever allow someone to bring you down into that negative energy ~ be with those people who lift you spirits.  And simply walk away from the drama.” 

Years ago while sitting at a desk being verbally assaulted by two co-workers, I wrote the following as I cried internally: 

“I will not fight back nor

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.”

-Cindy Kochis

Walk away from the drama.  It sounds more difficult than it really is because the fear is of what will they do to me next looms in the dark crevasses of the mind.  It takes courage to say, “Enough!”  If you are the one they must share the gossip with, redirect the conversation to one that is more pleasant and uplifting.  Once they realize you do not want to partake in the drama, they'll stop talking to you about it.  If you are the recipient of the attacks, do your best to live your life the best you can and try, try, try to ignore them.  Be kind to yourself and listen your heart as it gently speaks your truth.  Please don’t be afraid to ask for help and support.  There are countless people who can and WILL help you. 

And when you are willing and able, maybe you can help them.

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.  

It's Your Choice

We made the choices that led us to the situation we are in and no one else can take the credit or blame. If we allow another person to make the choices for us, we still made the choice to let someone do it for us. In the moment we take responsibility for our actions (and non-action) and understand that ultimately we can alter any circumstance something deep within changes. A change in Self-perception. It's not just Self-confidence, -empowerment, -appreciation, -value, -love evolving, but the entire perception of Self.

Life is about experiencing emotions – feeling and expressing. Love, hate, joy, sadness, excitement, anger, birth, death and, with a swing of the pendulum, the list continues down the path.

Ask, “What am I learning?” instead of “Why me?” By rewording the question with the intention set for a better understanding, we declare, “There is power in my words, beliefs and thoughts.”

"Live your "I Am" moment wisely." -John of Peniel

Letting go of the sense of inferiority, the false internal persuasion of insignificance and the many other deteriorating emotions towards not just our Self but towards other people, too, we change our perception of Life. It may take years, it make take only a blink of an eye – we can make the choice to allow the beautiful person we truly are to come forth instead of hiding from the Self-created fear.

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.

At Your Own Pace

Change happens. In most cases, it is unexpected; an auto accident, loss of a job, an illness diagnosis, a spouse reveals a secret...the list goes on.

We all deal with change differently. Loving Self during these times can be a bit trying to say the least. Blame, regret, anger, sadness are some of the first thoughts to run rampant in our minds. In an attempt to find comfort, guidance from friends and family is sought. For some, standing there with the viewpoint of not knowing what to say or do, they offer advice and stir up more painful emotions while Self-image and confidence effortlessly slip away. They say things like, "Get over it." "Good he's gone." "Smile, life could be worse." Or more detrimental, "Buck up and put on your big girl panties." How does this help? How is this nurturing? Show me the love in those statements! You can't find it, because it doesn't exist in those clusters of words.

It's important to feel the emotions swirling uncontrollably in that moment. If you are hurting - feel it, experience it and allow it to be. Know that this is just a moment and by letting the emotions to take their natural course you will heal. Trust that you will heal. And, by golly, experience the situation as an observer. Honestly look at it without hiding, burying, avoiding what is actually happening. Don't try to see the other person's point of view. Don't waste precious time attempt to sort it all out. It is what it is, so be it.

By learning to be the observer, it has been my experience to witness and understand that this situation provided me the golden opportunity to explore ways to strengthen Self; to love Self; define Self-love more clearly.

What makes ME feel happy?
What brings joy to MY day?
What can I do for myself that I wish someone would do for me?

Take the time to feel your emotions freely and without judgment. Be compassionate to the loving person you are and allow this situation to arouse the desire for healing. Only you know what is best for you. Look within, your answers are there. Even if for two minutes, be still - quiet - and listen to your spirit say, "I love you."

Healing Touch

The awareness of healing touch is growing. Once thought of as something only intuitive energy healers (Reiki Masters, Flowing Liquid Light Healing Practitioners and etc.) offered, people are beginning to understand how they too contribute to the energy flow.

Energy emanating from the heart is of the purest love and light. It cannot cause harm to anyone. When the transference comes from the ego, then ultimatums, judgments, conditions and so on interfere with the authenticity of the love and can be harmful. It is the deep-rooted intention that dictates the flow.

We are all intuitive energy healers. The firm hand placed on the shoulder of a friend needing courage provided the person with more strength. The nurturing hug you gave to your child just before bedtime brought comfort and security. And the list goes on...

Think the healing touch concept is hogwash? How did you feel the last time someone who cared held your hand? It was an extension of love. Nothing more, nothing less.

Unexpected Christmas Gift

Last Wednesday as we sat facing each other, he cut me off before I could complete my statement, "I'm an easy target for them because I won't fight back. I will not participate in their meanness; there's no reason for it. It's only meant to hurt people in a feeble attempt to feel better about themselves." I sighed, "(They've) cut me down to my core with their wicket words, manipulations and need to continue their nasty dramas. They destroyed my Self-image and now I'm rebuilding..."

"Why would you want to use the same bricks and 2x4's?" he interrupted. "It'll only collapse again. If it didn't work the first time..." he paused for a moment, "You have the opportunity to begin from the ground up. You have changed - evolved - and what once served you, no longer does. Do you really want to rebuild the old you?"

"Nobody is superior, nobody is inferior, but nobody is equal either. People are simply unique, incomparable. You are you, I am I. I have to contribute my potential to life; you have to contribute your potential to life. I have to discover my own being; you have to discover your own being." -Osho

On the night of December 25th, as I lay with my head on the pillow staring into the darkness of nightfall, I heard his voice again - reminding me. "You have the opportunity to begin from the ground up." The heartbreak I endured Christmas morning caused me to notice things about mySelf I was unaware of - habits, taught patterns, learned beliefs of Self.

As the event was occurring, guilt, rage, anger, self-demolishing thoughts filled my mind. For hours after the altercation, I remained in the destructive mode; tearing every shred of my being to smithereens. I'm not worthy.

"Oh my! Did I really think that?"

With that one sentence, I slammed on the brakes to stop the descent into the spiraling out of control vortex that consumed me. An awareness deeply rooted within my soul was forced out of the shadows. I gathered internal strength to build a new foundation - reaffirming the person I truly am. Blessing the situation for the awareness it brought forth, it was released with love and light. IT was let go without strings attached. In the silence of my still mind, I send love and gratitude to all that have shown me their perceptions of me. It is not mine to alter; there is nothing to fix. It is as it is. Everyone has the freewill to develop, maintain and nurture their beliefs of themselves and others. Someday they will see the real me. Until then, I cherish who I am.

I love you. I thank you. All is forgiven. Blessings to all.

Uncovering A Self-Imposed Truth

After taking care of business, a friend and I sat in her office talking about our boys; her three teens and my two adult sons. Conversation rolled from sports, interests, natural skills and shifting sixteen year old attitudes. A phrase she said brought out a self-imposed truth I'd suppressed deep within. She mentioned how one of her sons “has it figured out that the world is his oyster and everything is available to him. All he has to do is go for it.” She followed up with, “You know, like when we realized it.”

Without a hint of hesitation, I replied, “I've never really felt that way. For me it's always been a sense of survival.” Metaphorically speaking, I dropped to my knees. An awareness, a perception of life, a belief of my truth was in that moment brought out into the spotlight for me to view, bless and release.

“Time is only there to impede the soul of doing its job - to enjoy the things that surround us.” -Jeremiah Kochis

Several days later, I spent a few minutes with a dear friend chatting about something completely different – yet carrying the same emotions. With tender words of kindness he expressed how he believes I am being tested to find, speak, express my truth. Finding the value of saying “No” to things that don't resonate for my highest good. Sitting next to him on a park bench in the shade of the porch, I said, “I'm so tired of the struggle. I don't like this 'being tested' crap. I want to enjoy life without all the struggle.”

He responded in the big brother way he always does with me, “Turn it around. How are you looking at this? Turn it around and see the lesson. See the good in the experience. It's only awareness. You have to live from here,” he tapped is chest indicating the heart. “How can you change your perception?”

We are loved beyond our verbal comprehension of the meaning. Allow the love from within your heart to guide you. Trust Self. Bless each situation and use the experiences like a compass to direct the journey. We are guided to express and live our truth. How can you change your perception to that of knowing there is unlimited potential? What are the infinite possibilities?

A personal notation - sometimes shared insight helps to open the thoughts of others. Many blessing to you...

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.

Character Building

How can someone else speak your truth? I’ve been observing this question for a considerable amount of time and am finding it quite mind-boggling. Seriously, how can someone else convey your truth?

I’d just turned on my television and the morning news host says something about a reporter “will be on right after the commercial break with the truth about” the scandal of so-and-so at ‘big corporation’. My first thoughts were, How can they speak truth for so-and-so? Did they even speak to the man? And then I observed a misinformed truth at work several days ago. An important question was brought up and two co-workers answered the questions for me. Fact: the two individuals were not in the office, nor did they have knowledge of what happened and yet their answers were accepted as my truth. Sad to say, it’s a common practice in most aspects of life. Just listen to a rumor.

“Imagine how much productivity would be accomplished if everyone felt appreciated and valued instead of spending time reconstructing their self-confidence.” –Cindy Kochis

We all say things about others. It’s what conversation usually is centered around and in most cases we believe what we are saying is accurate. A percentage of the people will focus on the hurtful and demeaning attributes of an individual while others only mention information that is positive and of their good qualities. We are building characters each time we speak of another person; as a matter of fact – ourSelf.

How often is a judgment of an actress or rock star based on what the press/media reports on the individual you have never met? Or the person who’s mug shot has been plastered all over the six o’clock news claiming to be a bad person. Consider this scene: a 50 year old woman hits the gas instead of the brake and accidently kills a child. What are some of the reactions you are going to hear on the streets and in the coffee houses? “They should throw the book at her.” “Woman drivers!” It’s not necessary for me to continue with the comments; they are already forming in your mind. You’ve judged the person without knowing their truth. You are speaking your opinion about her situation without knowing all the accurate information. You’ve just jumped on the rumor mill merry-go-round without taking time to find out that the woman is the mother of three kids, cares for her elder parents, and works full-time at a children’s trauma hospital. Was compassion for her situation even considered?

This is strictly an observation and message to bring awareness. What characters are you building when you speak your truth about someone else? Are you accurately reporting what you witnessed? Is your interpretation similar to the other involved?

It is what it is….

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?

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

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.

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?

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.

Valuing Self

I am not better than you; you are not better than I. We are as individual as we are meant to be and isn’t it wonderful.

Self-worth is a component often times altered by outside sources. For example, someone causes anguish about your hair color (weight, height, job status, intelligence, etc) and at first you ignore the claims thinking they’re just jealous. As the taunting continues you look in the mirror and begin to see what they are saying as truth when previously you saw only beauty. It’s hard to hear that there could be something wrong with us or not good enough or not perfect to their standards. The young innocent child in my head states with a stomp of her right foot and hands on her hips, “But why don’t they see me as I see myself?”

“The roles people play in our life can bring forth a variety of beliefs in Self.” – Cindy Kochis

For the sake of this moment you and I are sharing, imagine a life in which another person’s statements and actions towards you have no affect. Wait, if I believe my Inner Guidance and not the projection of what someone else want me to be… Huh. I truly believe people enter our lives to encourage us to acknowledge the truth we already possess within our Soul. In each of us there is love, beauty, peace, harmony and a Spirit eager to influence the world we walk upon.

Be kind to yourSelf. Treat yourSelf as you wish to be treated. We all crave to hear the words, “I love you,” “I think you’re beautiful.” “You are a wonderful friend and lover.” Begin to tell yourSelf the lines you deserve to hear by turning them into a personal mantra. I am in love with my Self. I see my beauty within and express it to others…” Affirmations can work miracles.

Please note – I do not know why it was so important to share this message today. The initial subject for this morning was literally pushed out of my mind so the words above could be composed. The intent of this channeled message is only to serve as a window for you to look through. If you need council, please seek a professional trained to assist you. Many blessings on your journey and know that you are not alone. You are loved by so many.

Hidden Pain

The phrase “let it go” has been on my mind lately. Not in the sense that I have to let go of something, but misconceptions of the three-word sentence. Let it go has evolved into a mantra we repeat in our determination to be happier people.

“Let go of the heartbreak and everything will be alright.”

“If only I could let go of what he did to me?”

“Why did this have to happen to me?”

All attempts to forget about the person’s actions and situations will not work. Why? Because a festering sliver always comes back to the surface. Think about all the stuff we mentally bury to avoid pain and frustration.

What I’ve learned over the years is the importance of blessing and acknowledging the emotional attachment to the person, place or thing and deciding what it is I truly desire for Self. Allowing myself to feel the joy, feel the pain, feel the emotion I am experiencing in that moment brings freedom. It also gives me the opportunity to view it from another perspective and determine my truth. It takes practice to let Self experience the true, unaltered emotions (moods). Forgiveness is a key element.

Our journey is not about exploring the why’s, it is about loving Self with compassion and without judgment. Does it really matter why you experienced the situation (health, love, change and etc)? Striving to be only joyful while ignoring feeling any pang of heartache will establish energy blocks just as fast as dwelling on sadness. The purpose in life is personal growth. Remember, challenges are our own way of moving us onto the next situation of exploration.

Our perception is the interpreter. Love Self and all involved. Forgive Self and all involved. Feel compassion towards Self and all involved. Live authentically…