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

Resisting the Forward Motion

If I had a dime for every time I got distracted… ya know, a bowl of ice cream sure does sound good.

Distraction - a powerful tool we use to divert ourSelf from moving forward.  We may do two loads of laundry, wash the dishes, clean the garage, reorganize the pantry, watch television, vacuum the car, scan the internet for hours and any other task to delay us from doing certain things we claim we will do soon.  There is a part of us that knows we should tend to these tasks.  If only we could tap into the creativity energy we use to avoid deadlines, mundane routines, etcetera, and utilize it towards our goals.  Just remembered, I need to add honey to my grocery list. 

It’s not for a lack of commitment nor ambition; there are real reasons why we procrastinate.  Awareness can be the first step in moving us forward in our personal healing and assist in transforming a habit, belief, value that no longer serves our purpose.  If you are curious, take a look at how you are spending your time.  It doesn’t matter whether we intend to write the next best-selling novel, paint the dining room walls, clean the basement, complete creative projects, vacation, pay the bills ~ there is a resistance.  Why?  What is holding us back?  If I were to move the sofa over there and the bookshelf over there…                              

"We flood our minds with words!  They mesmerize and manipulate us, masking the truth even when it’s set down squarely in front of us.  To discover the underlying reality, I’ve learned to listen only to the action.” –Judith M. Knowlton

If you wish to explore the possible root causes, and this is just an idea, write in a notebook or on scrap piece of paper (even a napkin will work).  Just write.  Let the thoughts flow effortlessly through the pen without paying attention to spelling, grammar, punctuation or anything else that’ll prevent you from communicating with Self.  Sometimes just getting the thoughts out of the mind can be helpful.  If you wish, start asking yourSelf questions.  Please be loving and gentle on Self when looking within for answers. 

What is holding me back from doing ____?

What do I believe?  Is it self-nurturing?

Did someone tell me I cannot?  Who?

When did I start feeling this way?  Why?

Am I being loving to myself?

Where am I?

What do I dream of achieving?

If I could do anything, I would ___________.

Define your dreams, goals, soul’s cravings.

Describe your perfect job, business, spouse, lover, friend, home, vacation, (allow this list to evolve…)

It is okay to let the words wander and write about your day, a short story, and about your shift at work.  As with any relationship, when we take the time to communicate and express ourSelf freely, it evolves and transforms into something beautiful.

Soaking in the Words

I was driving down a county road when the cluster of words came to me begging to be put to paper. It doesn’t matter who the phrase is intended for or how they come across the poem. It always comes into light in perfect time.

Self -love, -worth, -appreciation, -gratification may not come easy some days. Years back I found in a book or on the internet to verbalize the statement “I love you” in the mirror. At first I felt a tad bit awkward. Okay, downright silly. I wondered how this was going to help me feel better about the person looking back at me. In a short amount of time it became easier and less (for a lack of a better word) embarrassing. A new sense of pride, appreciation, value percolated and the statement developed strength. There is power in our words, especially the unspoken.

When the world seems less than ideal, I’ve learned it is important to care for the sensitive person inside. Being empathetic is a blessing and at moments not so much. On one hand it makes forgiveness easier because I understand – I feel what the other person is feeling. With this gift of sensitive energy and strong intuition, it took me a long time to realize how easy it is to absorb the ‘not-so-nice information’ internally. Mood swings like a pendulum slamming to the left and then the right without resistance.

“Claiming “I’m fine” with tears flowing internally is a difficult way of life.” –Cindy Kochis

Years ago, I became aware of how other people’s ‘stuff’ affected me. It became very important for me to explore ways to resist the temptation to and prevent myself from soaking up their vibrational energy and take claim to it involuntarily. The ‘ick’ clouds my mood and provides the monkey mind with destructive ammunition. Again, there is great power in unspoken words. The ongoing practice to shield the aura is vital. A few of the techniques I find work the best for me is meditation, journaling, affirmations and an evolving believe in Self.

Yesterday was one of those ouch days at work. My aura was wide open like a barn door and a dry sponge in the heart of it eager for anything. I soaked up the aggression, the insecurity and whatever else was ready to attach to my being. I felt as though I’d been beaten with the metaphorical 2x4 and then toss out into the highway in front of a Mack truck. Splat. It was a long ride home once I completed my shift. After I tossed another tissue into the trash, rolled over, snuggled deep in the safety of my quilts, I recalled what I wrote over a week ago:

“I extend to you

The security of a mother’s hug

The warmth of a lover’s embrace

The joy of child’s curiosity

The peace of calm water

The harmony in a celebrated moment

This is the gift of love I share with you…”

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.

Calming the Great Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Behind Closed Eyes

The words 'Define it. Write it out. Draw it out.' lay effortlessly in blue ink as I began my journal entry at 6:21 this morning. As I listened and penned my thoughts, the following phrase was on paper before I realized it: “Don't question. Don't hesitate. Follow your heart. Feel your inner wisdom. Be your Authentic Self.” My first quote of the day (edited version, of course).

As I began to write a current list of goals, the kitchen timer went off for the dog food I was cooking for my Siberian husky. Stirring the rice, beef, vegetable and herb mixture, a message channeled in and knew it was vital for someone.

“How can you judge someone when you cannot experience the thoughts, emotions behind closed eyes?”
-Cindy Kochis 4-2010

One thing I trust is my intuition. It is not important if I don't know who the message is for and even why. What is important is that I don't bottle it up in fear that I might offend someone. Those that react with the greatest resistance are at the beginning stages of change (personal growth). This is meant for them. Otherwise it serves as a gentle reminder; an 'ah-ha' thing-a-ma-bopper.

The message was so strong that I stopped journalling to post it on FB. As the computer dialed for internet connection, the words “Compassion will heal ALL ills” filled and warmed my heart. To be compassionate, as used in this statement, is not about having pity on a person, however to be discerning. Remove your judgment with an open mind and heart and appreciate what you interpret the emotions they might be feeling in that moment. It is not possible for you to fully know how they feel, as our life experiences are as different as we are individual. Imagine how stress-free our lives could be if we stopped judging people and adored them for, well, them. Seriously. As you interact with people today, notice how we judge (and yes, we all do it – some to an extreme versus others) those around us or brought up in conversation. Did you feel envy or compassion, love or denial, joy or embarrassment?

Well, I think it's time for me to go back to finishing my journal entry for today. REMEMBER ~ Compassion (discernment) will heal ALL ills.

Pieces of Egg Shell Everywhere

I have a magical garden. It was built as I emotionally healed and has been maintained with unconditional love. The flowers outside in my back yard have witnessed my tears, my joys and all emotions in between, and yet, they come back every year. I think they like to watch me grow.

In an email conversation with a dear friend, she wrote these words, “And when it comes to doing healing work, maybe it's time to stop trying to heal people and instead, time to use your training to help people align with their healed truth?” I read the line too many times to count. For those that don't already know, I am an intuitive healer. Actually, to tell the truth, not many people know. This is my cracking out of my shell, takin' the risk, jumping off the metaphysical cliff and whatever cheesy line fits appropriately. It is time for me to stop hiding behind the curtain and be of service. People have a way of finding me and telling me their issues, problems - their life story. It happens in the grocery store, the post office, at work, and the list continues. When I was a teen, this used to bug me to no end. I would think, “Do I really need to know this? Do I look like I care?” I'd offer some encouraging words to be nice and off they would go. Years later, a friend helped me explore my abilities. It didn't take long for me to attract the things in my life to help me become more 'aware'.

I would like to share with you a portion of my correspondence; it will help you understand my goal and intent as an intuitive healer. “From the beginning of my journey in this life of channelling, premonitions, and healing, I've not wanted to tell people of their future, for the future is forever evolving through our own free will. Of course I went to you to take a peak at "my" future, not so much to know it, but to know that I would be in a better place than I was at that moment ~ that everything would be okay, happier, less painful. I needed the reassurance. Funny thing is, I've held off in doing any readings for people because I didn't want to disappoint people, break their hearts like when things I was told would happen didn't work out in what I considered a timely manner. Hence, my novels. According to channeled readings received over the years, I should have one novel published and another almost done. MY LESSON... I lived and experienced what I don't want to present to others and shown why. I want to help people with 'today'. What you wrote is what my current blog is all about ~ helping people align with their healed truth. That is how I want to assist people ~ bring awareness to Self ~ to enlighten them so they may see on their own how their words and actions impact not only others, but themSelf ~ remind them of the love that is within each of us ~ AND, there is no right, there is no wrong; there is no positive, there is no negative (other than with electricity)... I see how I was; I see how others feel and the emotions they use to express in an attempt to feel better about themselves and life (for example, drama)... I want to (metaphorically) hand them the tools as they are leaning under the hood of their car saying to themselves, "if I tweak this and adjust that... this engine should purr like a kitten." (Can ya tell I've had many mechanics in my life?) You're right - I don't want to fix 'em. I am an intuitive healer assisting those that are ready to align with Self in a non-judgmental, unconditionally loving and healthy manner. Thank you. I needed to say that.”

I'm certain when I am finished posting this blog entry and take a walk out in my garden I will hear the daffodils applaud. There is so much for us to love, learn and appreciate about Self.
Namaste'

Authenticity is the Key

There is so much change happening all around us; and isn’t it great? I’ve been having some really odd dreams to the point that I wake up thinking, “Huh?” Looking for some kind of message or meaning behind the oddities, I’ve been journaling more than ever before. The trail of bread crumbs leads me to parts of my past that I need to see the lesson and beliefs/habits to let go. Other pieces show me what my gifts are and how they can benefit all of us.

This morning I woke up to my inner voice saying, “Be authentic.” That’s it. That simple. Be authentic. A friend of mine said those words to me a while back and I shoo-shooed it as, ‘yeah, thanks, nice advice.’ However, it came full circle and I understand what she meant. Be the real you. Be the person your heart desires. Be unafraid to speak your inner truth. Be willing to love unconditionally. Live your life joyously. Ignore those who hold you down, tell you your dreams will never come true, and tell you negative and hurtful things to make themselves better (which by the way that never works, they still feel lousy about themselves even after their attempts to dismantle you). You are not the person your teachers in high school said you were. You are not the person your family wanted you to be. You are not the person society wishes to dictate, molding you into their form. You are an individual with a purpose, dreams and an inner knowing. Follow your heart and nothing else.

I wish you love, peace & joy ~

The Last Twelve Hours

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hugs and Giggles,
Me.

Don’t Despair – Celebrate

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

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

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

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

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

It's Not Your Fault

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

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

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

Inner Light Expo

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

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

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

Visit www.innerlightexpo.com for details.

Move Your Manifestations

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

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

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

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

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

The “ah-ha” moment.

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

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

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

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

Courage to Write

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

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

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

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

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