I believe that one of life's greatest risks is never daring to risk.
-Oprah
(Thank you for a co-worker for sharing this)
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
A Litle Maya
'I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today,
life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
''I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she
handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled
Christmas tree lights.
''I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents,
you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.
''I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.
''I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
''I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt
on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back.
''I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart,
Iusually make the right decision.
''I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
''I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone.
People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
''I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
''I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget
what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'
- Maya Angelou
(contributed by a good friend)
life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow.
''I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she
handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled
Christmas tree lights.
''I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents,
you'll miss them when they're gone from your life.
''I've learned that making a 'living' is not the same thing as 'making a life.
''I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance.
''I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt
on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back.
''I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart,
Iusually make the right decision.
''I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one.
''I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone.
People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.
''I've learned that I still have a lot to learn.
''I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget
what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.'
- Maya Angelou
(contributed by a good friend)
Seeking vs Discovery
Seeking occurs in time,
and follows a path
out of the present moment
into an imagined future.
Discovery is grounded
in the present moment,
centered here and now.
Seeking focuses on a distant goal.
Discovery focuses on immediate Reality.
Seeking is fueled by restlessness and longing.
Discovery is delighted, fulfilled and satisfied.
Seeking is predicated on lack and grasping,
-- and a sense of something missing.
Discovery is completely open and receptive
-- accepting and embracing Reality,
exactly as it is.
(Thank you to the Daily Guru for this contribution)
and follows a path
out of the present moment
into an imagined future.
Discovery is grounded
in the present moment,
centered here and now.
Seeking focuses on a distant goal.
Discovery focuses on immediate Reality.
Seeking is fueled by restlessness and longing.
Discovery is delighted, fulfilled and satisfied.
Seeking is predicated on lack and grasping,
-- and a sense of something missing.
Discovery is completely open and receptive
-- accepting and embracing Reality,
exactly as it is.
(Thank you to the Daily Guru for this contribution)
Recognize the Ego
Rav Ashlag, the founder of The Kabbalah Centre, says there is only onething we can do to defeat our ego - recognize it.The moment we see it, the Light comes in and sucks it out of us. Whenwe give up our ego completely, when we achieve the level where we cando true letting go of our agenda, that's immortality in all parts ofour life.Today, recognize everything about you that is opposite of the Light,and connect it to your ego. Whatever hurts you, whatever ticks youoff, whatever saddens you, whatever insults you, whatever worries you,whatever frightens you, know that it's simply your ego doing its jobof blocking your Light.
(Thanks for a friend for providing this post)
(Thanks for a friend for providing this post)
Return to Love Quote
Whenever we feel lost, or insane, or afraid, all we have to do is ask for His help. The help might not come in the form we expected, or even thought we desired, but it will come, and we will recognize it by how we feel. In spite of everything, we will feel at peace.
—Excerpted from A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles
—Excerpted from A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles
Without Story Quote
Man cannot live without story anymore than he can live without bread.
-Dr. Warren Bennis
-Dr. Warren Bennis
Appreciation of Life Quote
It is good to appreciate that life is now.
Whatever it offers, little or much, life is now - this day - this hour.
-Charles Macomb Flandrau
Whatever it offers, little or much, life is now - this day - this hour.
-Charles Macomb Flandrau
Sunday, November 2, 2008
For the Wall
May the light shine and open my heart to deeper relationships…remove the fear and let only love reside. I ask that we all grow in awareness of our interconnectedness for greater harmony.
Let go of anger, let go of story, learn to BE, find comfort in stillness, love, fellowship, peace, know one piece is part of a whole, forgiveness, gratitude, compassion, consciousness, awareness of self and space, laughter, warmth, abundance, never stop learning, adventure, presence…
Let go of anger, let go of story, learn to BE, find comfort in stillness, love, fellowship, peace, know one piece is part of a whole, forgiveness, gratitude, compassion, consciousness, awareness of self and space, laughter, warmth, abundance, never stop learning, adventure, presence…
Monday, October 27, 2008
Today's Events & Experiences
(Thank you for a good friend for sharing this lesson)
Today, I will trust that the events in my life are not random. My experiences are not a mistake. The Universe, my Higher Power, and life are not picking on me.
I am going through what I need to go through to learn something valuable, something that will prepare me for the joy and love I am seeking.
Today, I will trust that the events in my life are not random. My experiences are not a mistake. The Universe, my Higher Power, and life are not picking on me.
I am going through what I need to go through to learn something valuable, something that will prepare me for the joy and love I am seeking.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
5 Fear Truths
Adapted from "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway" by Susan Jeffers
1. The fear will never go away as long as you continue to grow.
2. The only way to get rid of the fear of doing something is to go out...and do it.
3. The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out...and do it.
4. Not only are you going to experience fear whenever you are on unfamiliar territory, but so it everyone else.
5. Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness
1. The fear will never go away as long as you continue to grow.
2. The only way to get rid of the fear of doing something is to go out...and do it.
3. The only way to feel better about yourself is to go out...and do it.
4. Not only are you going to experience fear whenever you are on unfamiliar territory, but so it everyone else.
5. Pushing through fear is less frightening than living with the underlying fear that comes from a feeling of helplessness
Story - Start with Yourself by Anonymous
The following words were written on the tomb of an Anglican Bishop in the Crypts of Westminster Abbey:
When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.
But it too, seemed immovable.
As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.
And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.
When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country.
But it too, seemed immovable.
As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it.
And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family.
From their inspiration and encouragement, I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.
Live in Love or Live in Fear
Each day, we make a choice to live in love or be controlled by our ego mind and live in fear. For every situation, we make a choice. We can choose to see the purity of the situation or circumstance surrounding us.
(If you are not receiving the daily email from Marianne Williamson on "A Course in Miracles," you are missing out on some great nuggets)
(If you are not receiving the daily email from Marianne Williamson on "A Course in Miracles," you are missing out on some great nuggets)
Energize Yourself
ENERGIZE YOURSELF
The gift of spiritual alignment. When you consciously align with spiritual principles, you give yourself an opening for transformation.
The magic of alchemy works by aligning with the principles that make up the universe's operating system. Here are examples of how you might apply these universal principles on a daily basis.
The events in my life reflect who I am: I will apply one experience today to myself. Whatever catches my attention is trying to tell me something. If I feel angry at anyone, I will see if what I dislike in the person actually exists in me. If an overheard conversation catches my attention, I will take those words as a personal message. I want to find the world that is inside me.
Whatever I pay attention to will grow: I will take inventory of how I'm using my attention. I will keep a log of how much time I spend with television, video games, the computer, hobbies, gossip, work I don't care about, work I am passionate about, activities that fascinate me, and fantasies of escape or fulfillment. In this way I will find out what aspects of my life are going to grow. Then I will ask, "What do I want to grow in my life?" This will tell me where my attention needs to shift.
At any given moment, the universe is giving me the best results possible: I will concentrate today on the gifts in my life. I will focus on what is working instead of what is not isn't. I will appreciate this world of light and shadow. I will receive with grace the remarkable gift of awareness. I will notice how my own level of awareness makes me perceive the world I am co-creating.
Adapted from The Book of Secrets by Deepak Chopra (Harmony Books, 2004).
(Thank you to a friend of mine for Sharon this within a good friend circle)
The gift of spiritual alignment. When you consciously align with spiritual principles, you give yourself an opening for transformation.
The magic of alchemy works by aligning with the principles that make up the universe's operating system. Here are examples of how you might apply these universal principles on a daily basis.
The events in my life reflect who I am: I will apply one experience today to myself. Whatever catches my attention is trying to tell me something. If I feel angry at anyone, I will see if what I dislike in the person actually exists in me. If an overheard conversation catches my attention, I will take those words as a personal message. I want to find the world that is inside me.
Whatever I pay attention to will grow: I will take inventory of how I'm using my attention. I will keep a log of how much time I spend with television, video games, the computer, hobbies, gossip, work I don't care about, work I am passionate about, activities that fascinate me, and fantasies of escape or fulfillment. In this way I will find out what aspects of my life are going to grow. Then I will ask, "What do I want to grow in my life?" This will tell me where my attention needs to shift.
At any given moment, the universe is giving me the best results possible: I will concentrate today on the gifts in my life. I will focus on what is working instead of what is not isn't. I will appreciate this world of light and shadow. I will receive with grace the remarkable gift of awareness. I will notice how my own level of awareness makes me perceive the world I am co-creating.
Adapted from The Book of Secrets by Deepak Chopra (Harmony Books, 2004).
(Thank you to a friend of mine for Sharon this within a good friend circle)
A Poem Entitled "Love"
This was written by a guy named Miah, that I met in college; he had written it for a girl that had recently left him. Wherever you are out there in the world, Miah, I hope that she had the opportunity to read this poem.
Love is a slow kiss goodnight. It's anticipation.
Love is flirting outrageously and still remembering that the person at your side is not obligated to do anything. It's respect.
Love is an imperfection in yourself not bothering you. It's acceptance.
Love is passing up an opportunity because the time isn't right yet. It's patience.
Love is a back massage that starts above the hairline and ends around the insoles. It's exploration.
Love is not having to say "Let's make love," because you know what the other person wants. It's understanding.
Love is being given an honest chance to say no when you thought you were committed. It's consideration.
Love is both of you remembering protection. It's responsibility.
Love is saying the perfect phrase to make a solemn embrace dissolve into giggles. It's humor.
Love is being told "Stop and I'll kill you." It's desire.
Love is reviewing the damage to your living room and realizing personal effects are strewn in a clockwise pattern from the front door to the bedroom. It's abandonment.
Love is seeing what your lover really looks like for the first time. It's truth.
Love is knowing what time it is and not caring. It's joy.
Love is the arms around you tightening their embrace. It's ecstasy.
Love is seeing a new side of a person you thought you knew. It's renewal.
Love is telling a person if you have to leave, you will let them sleep, and being told they would rather be woken. It's tenderness.
Love is waking up to find the subject of your dream you were having asleep on your shoulder. It's where fantasy meets reality.
Love is being there to wake your love. Slowly. It's sensuousness.
Love is belatedly knowing why you bothered to buy a queen-sized bed three years ago. It's practicality.
Love is two people only taking up a third of the queen-sized bed. It's closeness.
Love is knowingyou gave the extra set of keys to your apartment to the right person. It's trust.
Love is saying good-by and knowing you will be back by mutual consent. It's faith.
Love is stretching your arms and discovering the real meaning of the word "sore". It's a lesson of human frailty.
Love is opening your medicine cabinet and finding your tube of toothpaste turned into a pretzel. It's adaptation.
Love is sitting at a window, looking out and a remembering who you were with the night before. It's reflection.
Love is hearing the weather forecast for a winter storm and wishing you could spend it in bed with your lover. It's loneliness.
Love is stories that will never be told. It's personal.
Love is a slow kiss goodnight. It's anticipation.
Love is flirting outrageously and still remembering that the person at your side is not obligated to do anything. It's respect.
Love is an imperfection in yourself not bothering you. It's acceptance.
Love is passing up an opportunity because the time isn't right yet. It's patience.
Love is a back massage that starts above the hairline and ends around the insoles. It's exploration.
Love is not having to say "Let's make love," because you know what the other person wants. It's understanding.
Love is being given an honest chance to say no when you thought you were committed. It's consideration.
Love is both of you remembering protection. It's responsibility.
Love is saying the perfect phrase to make a solemn embrace dissolve into giggles. It's humor.
Love is being told "Stop and I'll kill you." It's desire.
Love is reviewing the damage to your living room and realizing personal effects are strewn in a clockwise pattern from the front door to the bedroom. It's abandonment.
Love is seeing what your lover really looks like for the first time. It's truth.
Love is knowing what time it is and not caring. It's joy.
Love is the arms around you tightening their embrace. It's ecstasy.
Love is seeing a new side of a person you thought you knew. It's renewal.
Love is telling a person if you have to leave, you will let them sleep, and being told they would rather be woken. It's tenderness.
Love is waking up to find the subject of your dream you were having asleep on your shoulder. It's where fantasy meets reality.
Love is being there to wake your love. Slowly. It's sensuousness.
Love is belatedly knowing why you bothered to buy a queen-sized bed three years ago. It's practicality.
Love is two people only taking up a third of the queen-sized bed. It's closeness.
Love is knowingyou gave the extra set of keys to your apartment to the right person. It's trust.
Love is saying good-by and knowing you will be back by mutual consent. It's faith.
Love is stretching your arms and discovering the real meaning of the word "sore". It's a lesson of human frailty.
Love is opening your medicine cabinet and finding your tube of toothpaste turned into a pretzel. It's adaptation.
Love is sitting at a window, looking out and a remembering who you were with the night before. It's reflection.
Love is hearing the weather forecast for a winter storm and wishing you could spend it in bed with your lover. It's loneliness.
Love is stories that will never be told. It's personal.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Thoughts from a Friend's Visit to a Church
Simply Stated...
Live Passionately
Love Completely
Learn Humbly
Die Boldly
Don't wait for future moments, be in the now...
Live Passionately
Love Completely
Learn Humbly
Die Boldly
Don't wait for future moments, be in the now...
Friday, August 22, 2008
Missing You
I've been thinking lots of motivational & inspirational things, and I've been collecting some new items to post, but that whole 'life' thing keeps getting in the way of me getting on the computer to just sit and type away. I'll be back soon with more thoughts, quotes, books and more...
check back soon
check back soon
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Dynamics of Leadership & Authority
A few years ago during my senior year of college, I participated in an experiential learning weekend on the Dyanamics of Leadership & Authority in Organizations.
Talk about a unique experience being one of the youngest individuals out of 30-40 participants over the course of the weekend. I remember it began with us being broken up into groups and placed in a room with chairs in a circle. There were to be 2 facilitators coming in, so we left 2 chairs vacant for them; when they walked in, they said nothing. That's how it all began...two days of mind-spinning, spiraling, thought-provoking discussion. It's so hard to even explain that experience. Why those two chairs were left open? How to respond to the 'expected leaders' not speaking? When faced with a group of different experiences, different ages, patterns emerge.
But here's what I got out of the experience that I wanted to share.
I look at these notes now, and I find that these comments that had such meaning for me then take on even more depth and color NOW.
Not everything is planned or controlled. There cannot always be a plan, an agenda.
We all have patches of a quilt; we just need to sew together the pieces.
Size of the group is very important.
Is there such a need for inclusion that any role will do?
I don't like being excluded. Why do that to others?
I cannot evaluate/judge because I don't want someone to do that to me.
We are all fearful of evaluation, that we close ourselves off from intimacy.
What I say is valid and worth listening to.
I am worthy to be in a group. I have something to share, and I will be open to say it.
I want to add something profound.
If a group decides how I feel, often I have authorized them to do so, and they hold the power.
Do I like being spoken for? Why speak for another?
Just because an individual does not verbally voice an opinion does not invalidate that opinion.
Silence is power if the silence is recognized.
Silence can help process thoughts.
The connect, do we break some eggshells or suffer in silence.
No matter what, a power struggle always exists. Even if it's only you.
How do we delay discomfort? How do we arrange ourselves?
Being an authority is a mixed burden. Attraction & Repulsion.
How effective is a group of leaders if no one will follow?
Special relationships can help & hurt a group.
When you take a risk, you must be open to being criticized for it.
How can I learn without taking a risk?
It's about learning.
I don't want to withdraw from college before I leave college.
The last thought had to do with the realization of being present. I was rushing to be done and move to onto the next step of my life, but I realized I needed to embrace now. I learned more about risk and being okay with it. I learned more about group dynamics and that just because someone was silent, it didn't mean he/she didn't have something brillant to add to the discussion. I remember feeling so intimidated in the surroundings; I was younger and less life experienced. I have so often let my ego take control, and I've felt inferior. That is where those comments on having a voice and giving other power sparked from. It's taken awhile to let go of that ego voice and just let it be with all people. It was an intense experience that for a very long time I couldn't put into words. I remember coming home those two evenings (late) and not even being able to talk to my friends; my brain was fried, and I was exhausted. I couldn't even explain the experience, so I just withdrew to contemplate the day's events and get some sleep.
It was a great weekend, and I do hope that I will be able to participate in an experiential weekend again.
Talk about a unique experience being one of the youngest individuals out of 30-40 participants over the course of the weekend. I remember it began with us being broken up into groups and placed in a room with chairs in a circle. There were to be 2 facilitators coming in, so we left 2 chairs vacant for them; when they walked in, they said nothing. That's how it all began...two days of mind-spinning, spiraling, thought-provoking discussion. It's so hard to even explain that experience. Why those two chairs were left open? How to respond to the 'expected leaders' not speaking? When faced with a group of different experiences, different ages, patterns emerge.
But here's what I got out of the experience that I wanted to share.
I look at these notes now, and I find that these comments that had such meaning for me then take on even more depth and color NOW.
Not everything is planned or controlled. There cannot always be a plan, an agenda.
We all have patches of a quilt; we just need to sew together the pieces.
Size of the group is very important.
Is there such a need for inclusion that any role will do?
I don't like being excluded. Why do that to others?
I cannot evaluate/judge because I don't want someone to do that to me.
We are all fearful of evaluation, that we close ourselves off from intimacy.
What I say is valid and worth listening to.
I am worthy to be in a group. I have something to share, and I will be open to say it.
I want to add something profound.
If a group decides how I feel, often I have authorized them to do so, and they hold the power.
Do I like being spoken for? Why speak for another?
Just because an individual does not verbally voice an opinion does not invalidate that opinion.
Silence is power if the silence is recognized.
Silence can help process thoughts.
The connect, do we break some eggshells or suffer in silence.
No matter what, a power struggle always exists. Even if it's only you.
How do we delay discomfort? How do we arrange ourselves?
Being an authority is a mixed burden. Attraction & Repulsion.
How effective is a group of leaders if no one will follow?
Special relationships can help & hurt a group.
When you take a risk, you must be open to being criticized for it.
How can I learn without taking a risk?
It's about learning.
I don't want to withdraw from college before I leave college.
The last thought had to do with the realization of being present. I was rushing to be done and move to onto the next step of my life, but I realized I needed to embrace now. I learned more about risk and being okay with it. I learned more about group dynamics and that just because someone was silent, it didn't mean he/she didn't have something brillant to add to the discussion. I remember feeling so intimidated in the surroundings; I was younger and less life experienced. I have so often let my ego take control, and I've felt inferior. That is where those comments on having a voice and giving other power sparked from. It's taken awhile to let go of that ego voice and just let it be with all people. It was an intense experience that for a very long time I couldn't put into words. I remember coming home those two evenings (late) and not even being able to talk to my friends; my brain was fried, and I was exhausted. I couldn't even explain the experience, so I just withdrew to contemplate the day's events and get some sleep.
It was a great weekend, and I do hope that I will be able to participate in an experiential weekend again.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Love
All you need is love...something like that, so the song goes. We could get a little Gershwin in here too, 'seek and ye shall find.' For some reason, the last couple of weeks, I've been all love stricken. Well, maybe that's not the right term. Just thinking about it a bit more...the thought that I need to cast a line to catch some fish. You can't win the lotto unless you buy a ticket. I haven't been actively out there hitting the bar scene or whatever you're 'supposed' to do. So I am trying to come up with some creative ways to meet some nice boys/men. It's just been on my mind I guess...sometimes I wish someone was there at the house to share the movie with on a Thursday night or just sit and read with on the couch; of course, there's the activities of leaving the house and adventuring to various places. Nonetheless, I am independent and can do these things alone, but it's fun to share it too. For tonite, since it is time for sleep, I will Let it Be.
P.S. If you haven't seen 'Across the Universe', check it out...it's a bit of a mind trip, but good music.
P.S. If you haven't seen 'Across the Universe', check it out...it's a bit of a mind trip, but good music.
Personal Mission Statement
So I've been reading/listening up on Covey. 7 Habits stuff. I'm actually listening to the book on CD...I know, exciting driving material...actually, I quite enjoy it. Plus, I'm learning his material at work as well. Habit 2 - Personal Vision - Begin with the end in mind. Imagine it's your funeral (3 years from today)...what do you want people to say...who were you? Who was I? From this, he says to create a personal mission statement based on being principle-centered. It feels so big and daunting...it's not...what's important to me? Who do I want to be in the roles in which I exist? Is it really that hard?
To be honest in all facets of my life
At work, to give high quality product
To strive to live from a place of presence
Okay, I think I may struggle a bit with this...I'm going to tool around with it a little...but what a message.
You think about what you'd want people to say about your character...what would I want my family, my friends, to say about me?
To be honest in all facets of my life
At work, to give high quality product
To strive to live from a place of presence
Okay, I think I may struggle a bit with this...I'm going to tool around with it a little...but what a message.
You think about what you'd want people to say about your character...what would I want my family, my friends, to say about me?
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Life is to Live
"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience."
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Gratitude
Wayne Dyer in "The Power of Intention" mentions this word about 50 bazillion times. Sarah Ban Breathnach talked about a gratitude journal in her book, "Simple Abundance."
For us to manifest that which we want into our being, we must always remember to be thankful for what is.
I like the idea of a gratitude journal - 3 to 5 items a day. Sometimes it could be big things and other days it's just being grateful that I made it out of bed. I started one in high school...it made mention of getting ice cream with a friend after school or going to pick out a prom dress. Well, times have changed, and the journal reads a bit different now. I'm thankful for the friendships and the food still but also sometimes just for the starry sky on an early morning walk. It's a reminder of connection to people, to nature, to form but also to the formless.
On that note, thank YOU for taking the time to read this message today :)
For us to manifest that which we want into our being, we must always remember to be thankful for what is.
I like the idea of a gratitude journal - 3 to 5 items a day. Sometimes it could be big things and other days it's just being grateful that I made it out of bed. I started one in high school...it made mention of getting ice cream with a friend after school or going to pick out a prom dress. Well, times have changed, and the journal reads a bit different now. I'm thankful for the friendships and the food still but also sometimes just for the starry sky on an early morning walk. It's a reminder of connection to people, to nature, to form but also to the formless.
On that note, thank YOU for taking the time to read this message today :)
Relationships
Today I struggled with relationships...
A friend experienced a crisis in another city, and there was nothing I could do about it from what I sat. I ached because I could not be there. I could not comfort or express anything...how I wished I could. I tried to reach out to my friend but he detached for whatever reason. How do I deal with this? As Eckhart Tolle stated, "All you can do is create a space...for grace and love to enter." I realized tonight that I must give him space...space to sort out his crisis. He knows that I am here if he needs me. That is all that I can do.
I also experienced a situation with a relative today. For years, I've put an expectation of how I thought our relationship should be. When it didn't fit this model, let's just say there's been resistance on both sides. We have our own distance between us, but I've been resisting our relationship as it is for years. How powerful this evening to realize that I need to accept the situation as it is...be willing to forgive myself for how we've lived and be willing to forgive her. I must stay true to who I am, and she must do the same. How did I not see this before?
It's about letting go...surrendering to this life. This doesn't mean inaction but rather acceptance of the situation as it IS. One of Eckhart's quotes on this is, "I have learned to offer no resistance to what is; I have learned to allow the present moment to be and accept the impermanent nature of all things and conditions. Thus I have found peace."
A friend experienced a crisis in another city, and there was nothing I could do about it from what I sat. I ached because I could not be there. I could not comfort or express anything...how I wished I could. I tried to reach out to my friend but he detached for whatever reason. How do I deal with this? As Eckhart Tolle stated, "All you can do is create a space...for grace and love to enter." I realized tonight that I must give him space...space to sort out his crisis. He knows that I am here if he needs me. That is all that I can do.
I also experienced a situation with a relative today. For years, I've put an expectation of how I thought our relationship should be. When it didn't fit this model, let's just say there's been resistance on both sides. We have our own distance between us, but I've been resisting our relationship as it is for years. How powerful this evening to realize that I need to accept the situation as it is...be willing to forgive myself for how we've lived and be willing to forgive her. I must stay true to who I am, and she must do the same. How did I not see this before?
It's about letting go...surrendering to this life. This doesn't mean inaction but rather acceptance of the situation as it IS. One of Eckhart's quotes on this is, "I have learned to offer no resistance to what is; I have learned to allow the present moment to be and accept the impermanent nature of all things and conditions. Thus I have found peace."
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Our deepest fear
This quote is originally from Marianne Williamson and was adapted for the movie "Coach Carter."
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Everytime I see the scene in which this is spoken, I get chills and tear up. Fear of achieving all that I ever desired...the pressure that can come with that. However, I've been learning to see this in a new way. It's the fact that I am a whole person, connected to everyone. I think the reason this hits me so hard it that I have hid for so long...I want to shine and BE. I want others to feel comfortable just BE'ing and as it says, they will let their own light shine brighter. I have to learn to let go of 'things' as well, I just can't tell you how this quote gets me everytime.
Formless, spaciousness, bright...
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Everytime I see the scene in which this is spoken, I get chills and tear up. Fear of achieving all that I ever desired...the pressure that can come with that. However, I've been learning to see this in a new way. It's the fact that I am a whole person, connected to everyone. I think the reason this hits me so hard it that I have hid for so long...I want to shine and BE. I want others to feel comfortable just BE'ing and as it says, they will let their own light shine brighter. I have to learn to let go of 'things' as well, I just can't tell you how this quote gets me everytime.
Formless, spaciousness, bright...
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
A Couple Quotes
"Ideals are like stars; you will not succeed in touching them with your hands. But like seafaring men on the desert of waters, you choose them as your guides, and following them until you will reach your destiny."
-Carl Schurz
"The darkest hour is just before dawn. We cannot always fathom why something happened, but faith and love drive us on."
-My dad
-Carl Schurz
"The darkest hour is just before dawn. We cannot always fathom why something happened, but faith and love drive us on."
-My dad
The Best Things in Life by Anonymous
Falling in Love. A Hot Shower. No lines at Wal-Mart [for me, it's Target]. Laughing so hard your face hurts. A special glance. Getting mail. Taking a drive on a pretty road. Hearing your favorite song on the radio. Lying in bed listening to the rain outside. Hot towels out of the dryer. Chocolate milkshakes. A long distance phone call. Laughing a yourself. A bubble bath. Giggling. A good conversation. Midnight phone calls that last for hours. Running through sprinklers. Laughing at an inside joke. Laughing for no reason at all. Friends. Falling in love for the first time. Your first kiss. Waking up & realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep. Making new friends & spending time with old ones. Playing with a new puppy. Hot chocolate. Late nite talks with your roommate [insert friend or significant other]. Sweet dreams. Having someone play with your hair. Road trips. Swinging on swings. Going to a really good concert. Watching a movie cuddled up with someone. Song lyrics printed inside your new cd. Getting butterflies in your stomach. Sunrises. Making eye contact with a cute stranger. Spending time with close friends. Holding hands. Some things never change. Love is unconditional and stronger than time. Homemade cookies. Love Love Love!
This was in a book that I kept during my college days, and I just thought it was a nice reminder of some of the simpler things in life.
This was in a book that I kept during my college days, and I just thought it was a nice reminder of some of the simpler things in life.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Can You Go 21 Days Without Complaining?
So a study was even done about complaining and the stresses placed on us...blah blah blah. I guess people like to complain.
So a challenge was started to help people curb their complaining...21 days complaint-free. It started in a ministry in Missouri. Since we are what we think about, the minister tried out this challenge on the congregation, and the movement grew.
http://www.acomplaintfreeworld.org/
How can you go 21 days without complaining? Here are some tips...
1. Recognize that it's a process. It may take some time, but realize that it's a journey, that there will be slip ups and keep going.
2. Think constructive and informative. Stick to the facts and be neutral. Think "Am I damaging the relationship?"
3. Write down what's bothering you. This helps you view the situation more objectively plus it can be very therapeutic (more so than yapping about it to a friend for 2 hours).
4. Consider what can be done to change the situation. Step back and brainstorm. Write down some ideas and decide what to do first.
5. Channel the complaining into a more productive response. Take active-recommend a new policy, ask for help. Do something positive.
6. Find a bright side. Find the positive in the negative scenario. Example: given a time-consuming project, consider the knowledge and experience you'll gain
Maya Angelou - "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude; Don't complain"
So can you go 21 days?
So a challenge was started to help people curb their complaining...21 days complaint-free. It started in a ministry in Missouri. Since we are what we think about, the minister tried out this challenge on the congregation, and the movement grew.
http://www.acomplaintfreeworld.org/
How can you go 21 days without complaining? Here are some tips...
1. Recognize that it's a process. It may take some time, but realize that it's a journey, that there will be slip ups and keep going.
2. Think constructive and informative. Stick to the facts and be neutral. Think "Am I damaging the relationship?"
3. Write down what's bothering you. This helps you view the situation more objectively plus it can be very therapeutic (more so than yapping about it to a friend for 2 hours).
4. Consider what can be done to change the situation. Step back and brainstorm. Write down some ideas and decide what to do first.
5. Channel the complaining into a more productive response. Take active-recommend a new policy, ask for help. Do something positive.
6. Find a bright side. Find the positive in the negative scenario. Example: given a time-consuming project, consider the knowledge and experience you'll gain
Maya Angelou - "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude; Don't complain"
So can you go 21 days?
13 Teachings of Rabbi Y'srael Salanter
TRUTH - Do not say anything unless you know in your heart that it is true.
ALERTNESS - A minute is too precious to waste. Time must be properly utilized.
DILIGENCE - Decide what needs to be done, then do it enthusiastically and well.
RESPECT - Honor every person. He may not be your friend but he is a human being.
PEACE OF MIND - Be calm and composed and let it show in everything you do.
GENTLENESS - Wise men speak gently. Develop the habit and you will find yourself being listened to.
CLEANLINESS - Respect your body and your clothing. Keep them clean.
PATIENCE - Whatever happens, often it will be unpleasant - accept it with calm and patience.
ORDERLINESS - Make your willpower the master of your time. Plan, organize and follow through.
HUMILITY - You are not perfect. Recognize your own weakness. Ignore the faults of others.
RIGHTEOUSNESS - Always do the right thing, plain and simple, what the moral law demands and more.
THRIFT - Every penny should be spent carefully. Money can do too much good to be wasted.
SILENCE - Choose your words carefully. Don't talk unless you have something worthwhile to say.
ALERTNESS - A minute is too precious to waste. Time must be properly utilized.
DILIGENCE - Decide what needs to be done, then do it enthusiastically and well.
RESPECT - Honor every person. He may not be your friend but he is a human being.
PEACE OF MIND - Be calm and composed and let it show in everything you do.
GENTLENESS - Wise men speak gently. Develop the habit and you will find yourself being listened to.
CLEANLINESS - Respect your body and your clothing. Keep them clean.
PATIENCE - Whatever happens, often it will be unpleasant - accept it with calm and patience.
ORDERLINESS - Make your willpower the master of your time. Plan, organize and follow through.
HUMILITY - You are not perfect. Recognize your own weakness. Ignore the faults of others.
RIGHTEOUSNESS - Always do the right thing, plain and simple, what the moral law demands and more.
THRIFT - Every penny should be spent carefully. Money can do too much good to be wasted.
SILENCE - Choose your words carefully. Don't talk unless you have something worthwhile to say.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
ME to WE
So I've just finished listened to the book, ME to WE, on cd. I read about 2-3 books at a time...I seriously was never a book fanatic until about 2 years ago.
Nonetheless, ME to WE, makes you think about social responsibility and really being involved in volunteering and taking care of each other. I mean, we are all connected as a community, but there is so often an overwhelming feeling that I can't take of everyone, so what can I really do? The book helped give perspective to this, and I am now excited to explore opportunities for volunteering in my community and beyond.
A smile can go a long way!
We're a global community and everyone needs love!
I really enjoyed the book, especially the personal stories included...the stories of 1 person's journey to help others, and it didn't have to be a journey that changed thousands of lives, though some were. Sometimes all you need is a spark!
http://www.metowe.com
Finding volunteer opportunities in your area: http://www.volunteermatch.org
Nonetheless, ME to WE, makes you think about social responsibility and really being involved in volunteering and taking care of each other. I mean, we are all connected as a community, but there is so often an overwhelming feeling that I can't take of everyone, so what can I really do? The book helped give perspective to this, and I am now excited to explore opportunities for volunteering in my community and beyond.
A smile can go a long way!
We're a global community and everyone needs love!
I really enjoyed the book, especially the personal stories included...the stories of 1 person's journey to help others, and it didn't have to be a journey that changed thousands of lives, though some were. Sometimes all you need is a spark!
http://www.metowe.com
Finding volunteer opportunities in your area: http://www.volunteermatch.org
Attitude by Chuck Swindoll
"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than success, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company...a church...a home. The remarklable thing is we have a choice everyday regarding the attitude we embrace for that day. We cannot change our past...we cannot change the fact that people act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude... I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you...we are in charge of our ATTITUDES."
Thoughts from the Beach
While working at a beach location in late fall 2007, I wrote...
Life is but a moment, a breath, a crash of waves upon the silky sand. A reminder of fleeting happenings, of what is gone and cannot be changed, of what is now and before you in that very salty sweet inhale taken, and all that is to come in moments undiscovered. Live now, embrace and cherish now, for moments cannot be erased or replaced.
The ocean raises her mighty fist against the shore yet softly breaks. The warm salt streams in but stays so briefly. A visit, a reminder.
A lesson on leadership watching pelicans from a balcony...
Four flew lightly together, close to the water's edge. Two swooped and landed happily in the waves beginning to dunk for sea life, having decided this was the ideal spot. The other two, however, continued with patience to fly around the area a bit longer before settling about 20 feet away (their ideal locale). The first two, seeing this, showing respect and trust in their fellow birds, immediately skirted over to where the second two had landed. The second two had done some brief investigation of the waters and chosen the best spot to land for 'dining', and the others followed suit quickly, displaying aviary leadership skills on the water in the early morn.
Life is but a moment, a breath, a crash of waves upon the silky sand. A reminder of fleeting happenings, of what is gone and cannot be changed, of what is now and before you in that very salty sweet inhale taken, and all that is to come in moments undiscovered. Live now, embrace and cherish now, for moments cannot be erased or replaced.
The ocean raises her mighty fist against the shore yet softly breaks. The warm salt streams in but stays so briefly. A visit, a reminder.
A lesson on leadership watching pelicans from a balcony...
Four flew lightly together, close to the water's edge. Two swooped and landed happily in the waves beginning to dunk for sea life, having decided this was the ideal spot. The other two, however, continued with patience to fly around the area a bit longer before settling about 20 feet away (their ideal locale). The first two, seeing this, showing respect and trust in their fellow birds, immediately skirted over to where the second two had landed. The second two had done some brief investigation of the waters and chosen the best spot to land for 'dining', and the others followed suit quickly, displaying aviary leadership skills on the water in the early morn.
If I Had My Life to Life Over by Erma Bombeck
She wrote this after she found out she had cancer. In memory...
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never had said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's." more "I'm sorry's".
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it. Live it and never give it back. Stop sweating the small stuff.
Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who love us.
Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with.
And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally.
I hope you all have a blessed day.
I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.
I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.
I would have talked less and listened more.
I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.
I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.
I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.
I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.
I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.
I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.
I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.
I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.
When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never had said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner." There would have been more "I love you's." more "I'm sorry's".
But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it. Live it and never give it back. Stop sweating the small stuff.
Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what.
Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who love us.
Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with.
And what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally.
I hope you all have a blessed day.
Rudy's Rules
The inspirational words of Rudy Ruettiger - the man who would not quit until he got into Notre Dame and played football!
-You can be anyone you want to be: create daily success habits that will empower you
-Make anger work for you: use anger in a positive way to get results
-Everyone should be a dreamer: visualize your dream and make a commitment to making it happen
-Eliminate the confusion: visualize exactly what you want to be
-It is better to do something and fail than to do nothing at all! The harder the struggle, the greater the victory.
-Get the dollar signs out of your eyes: focus on your passion instead of money
-Quit making excuses: when we make commitments they become real, not just fantasies
-Dreams don't have time limits but timing is everything: if you miss a goal, don't quit, reset it
-Keep at it: if you quit, you'll regret it forever
-When you achieve one dream, dream another: Dreams give us energy to go to new levels
-You can be anyone you want to be: create daily success habits that will empower you
-Make anger work for you: use anger in a positive way to get results
-Everyone should be a dreamer: visualize your dream and make a commitment to making it happen
-Eliminate the confusion: visualize exactly what you want to be
-It is better to do something and fail than to do nothing at all! The harder the struggle, the greater the victory.
-Get the dollar signs out of your eyes: focus on your passion instead of money
-Quit making excuses: when we make commitments they become real, not just fantasies
-Dreams don't have time limits but timing is everything: if you miss a goal, don't quit, reset it
-Keep at it: if you quit, you'll regret it forever
-When you achieve one dream, dream another: Dreams give us energy to go to new levels
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Careers
Today I did a course on career intervention-focusing on my strengths. Am I doing what I want to be doing? Am I tapping into my strengths, which is where I should be spending most of my day, not focusing on those nasty weaknesses? It was insightful, yet I will not be quitting my job tomorrow or moving out of the country. I do have some new ideas of how I want to reconstruct what I currently do to spend more time doing what I enjoy and what invigorates me.
Sometimes I do feel an urge...a push to just leap...do something outlandish like join the Peace Corps, then I let the ego start talking, and I don't do anything about it. I am trying to get involved with volunteer groups locally, but sometimes don't you just want to act? You feel an urge to leap! We'll see what happens...
Sometimes I do feel an urge...a push to just leap...do something outlandish like join the Peace Corps, then I let the ego start talking, and I don't do anything about it. I am trying to get involved with volunteer groups locally, but sometimes don't you just want to act? You feel an urge to leap! We'll see what happens...
Friday, May 23, 2008
Legacy
A legacy is trace evidence of a life well lived -Kenny Funk
I don't know about you, but this got me thinking about what I want my legacy to be. If I died today, what would I be remembered for? The joy I shared with my closest work friends as we worked tirelessly to accomplish our goals, or the bad attitude I projected to those close work friends while we worked tirelessly to accomplish our goals within a short timeframe...my heart chooses the first, though sometimes my unconscious mind chooses the second. I want to follow my heart...breathe deeply and be connected. Joy, peace...it's possible. Anything is possible...you just have to be open to it.
I'm going to Be and that will help me create a positive life legacy.
I don't know about you, but this got me thinking about what I want my legacy to be. If I died today, what would I be remembered for? The joy I shared with my closest work friends as we worked tirelessly to accomplish our goals, or the bad attitude I projected to those close work friends while we worked tirelessly to accomplish our goals within a short timeframe...my heart chooses the first, though sometimes my unconscious mind chooses the second. I want to follow my heart...breathe deeply and be connected. Joy, peace...it's possible. Anything is possible...you just have to be open to it.
I'm going to Be and that will help me create a positive life legacy.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Welcome
Welcome to the page! This is new to me, so it will be a little loco as I get started, but I'm quite excited.
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