The Difference between “Freedom” & “Reaction”

Although my mother “changed addresses” from this place 14 years ago, she is still a part of me. She had a tremendous influence over how I saw the world around me and inside me too. You never know how you will influence another in your path, but for sure; we all do. In her efforts to help me develop my conscience, she used to say “If everyone did what you do, would the world be a better place?” This probably was related to my cutting corners, or not following the rules or agreements within the family unit. It is tempting to think that “just this once” or “no one will care/know/find out.” It is definitely a stage in maturation to come to terms with accountability and responsibility for oneself. What I could let myself off the hook for isolated to just me, didn’t work when I considered this question of hers.

There is a darkness and separation that comes with the thought or belief that “what I do doesn’t really matter” and it’s like sourdough starter; it is very influential! This is one of the ways we give our power away, by not owning it, claiming the choices we do have and focusing on the ones we don’t have.

It’s also important to know the distinction between “freedom” and “reaction” although the visible action observed may appear the same or similar. Freedom operates independently. Reaction operates dependently. You see?

A child in the stage of life known as the “terrible two’s” is learning their power though opposition, by saying “No” to any direction. And the use of child psychology would allow someone to play with the direction, to influence the response. This is clearly based on the constant dependency in reaction. However, when someone individuates and becomes their “own person” we see their separation or surrender of dependency show up. We might describe them as someone who is mature, grounded, or confident.

How does that happen? How do we “get there”? Clearly it is not hinged on the chronological number of years we refer to as “age”. It is something else.

Reflecting back over my own life, this maturation was preceded by the discontent of the norm. The awareness of it’s obsolescence or corruption or injustice. I reached a gut wrenching point when I just couldn’t “go along with it” any more. And then I would think “there’s got to be a better way”. This moment is pivotal; it’s magic! It’s also tricky and risky and uncertain to figure it out on our own!! Without following along or getting someone else’s stamp of approval. What if it’s wrong or ridiculed or we are rejected for it?? Yep, that’s right. Those things could happen. And at some point they will. Some would say “Don’t get too hung up on failure.” Isn’t that pretty much how we each learned to walk!? Think about that for a moment…

We all have accomplished many, many things. Been victorious – survived countless hazards and dangers in our lifetime! And, there is no end to the possibilities left for us to learn.
This theme has been up for me. I’m becoming aware of and exploring how many different ways things might be handled. My grown daughter is withholding her contribution to paying rent. And although this change brings many emotions into the dynamics in the home, I have the opportunity to choose how I am with that. To look at the options available, what my values and goals include that will weigh in on the choice I make. She is doing “her” and I get to do “me”. Yes there is influence that we each have on the other, but we are here to choose our own experiences.

At the moment I am in the “great gestation” of the next birthing, I am swimming in the pool of different emotions like fear, anger, sadness; reflections, desires, and choosing the next stand I will take. And all the while tending to the fire of everyday life. I am invited to practice holding my own core and nurturing it with rest and beauty and love. I have another opportunity to consider my mothers wise words and choose for myself what I express into the energetic fabric of the planet.

And, astrologically, May will be a very different month for us. Four planets will be “out of bounds” which basically means they will be outside the ruling of the Sun. Venus, Mars, Mercury, and the Moon; all on their own, so to speak. They will embody a free, creative, unpredictable energy similar to Uranus. The probability for this is around 1%. In addition, Jupiter will ingress into Pisces for two and a half months bringing a much needed restoration of faith and optimism. Then it goes retrograde in June and then back into Aquarius in July until 2022 when it moves into Pisces for a year. 

What could we do with this opportunity?
How could this influence things?
What relationship with influence do we have or could we foster?
What’s showing up in our lives now that we can respond to in a supportive way?

Is Gravity a Problem?

Interesting question, or is it a ridiculous one? Let’s think on this.

Whenever I glimpse a scene from a space movie where the astronauts are floating and unsteady in their movements, I appreciate gravity. On the other hand, I have fallen and been hurt – more so when I was a kid of course. The point though is that gravity is not a “problem” because we sometimes use faulty measurements in our movements and feel pain as a result. Once we learn as tiny humans to find our balance with it, we can run free, we find our power with it. And so it goes with all problems or conflicts.

So it might be accurate to say that problems or conflicts generate energy to feed and motivate growth, necessary growth; like walking as an example.

Maybe, the “problem” is thinking of it as a problem?

The word problem comes from the Greek “pro” (front) and “balein” (throw). Throw something forward, hard. The word problem, in your current concept, is rooted in something that prevents you from moving forward freely, and that it is necessary to resolve, from the Latin “re” (to return, again) and “solvere” (to let go). That is, the resolution of a problem lies in releasing what has been launched so as not to be dragged by it. The concept can be understood as having thrown something by doing, without coherence or purpose. The problems, then, are those things that you throw into life and that you must later learn to let go of or find neutrality with.Problems create conflicts, conflicts awaken energy, and energy feeds the body, soul and spirit to move forward, releasing its previous state, causing the resolution of the problem. (Thank you Matias deStephano, YoSoy.Red blog.)

How different would it be if we shifted our perspective? If we encountered issues in our lives as a call to growth, as a facilitator of expansion; and saw the same for those around us – how differently that would feel. It is said that competition in it’s purest form is healthy and respectful, that each opponent supports and facilitates the other’s best performance, and that it is an honor to encounter a worthy opponent in your travels as you will be assured to rise to your highest abilities. What a clean perspective. (Thank you Dan Millman, author Way of The Peaceful Warrior.)

The twist that comes into the picture is when we introduce the idea of victimization, a disconnected perspective of powerlessness and isolation. With this as the basis, one is in a weakened position, that is a disadvantage. This topic is easier to see from a clear distance, without emotions like fear and anger. Which is why I love to take time and reflect, to expand my thoughts and look at my feelings from a safe neutral space. You too?
If we couple this perspective of what a problem is, with the new moon energy of renewal, rebirth, and seeding our future; it feels very potent! Whatever response we choose (consciously or unconsciously) we can expect to encounter situations inside of ourselves as well as outside of us, that are conflicts.

The question is, how will we recognize the true leverage of the situation? How can we support our growth and well being in these encounters? And how might we soothe ourselves in the discomfort that may be present? What can we put into place in preparation for these encounters that will add to our buoyancy?
This is the perspective that gets juicy for me! This way of thinking feels spacious inside, and rich.

No Time to Sweat the Little Things

We are entering a very powerful time, with the Solstice on the 21st of December, and the planetary alignments that continue to support new energies. Earth and Jupiter will both be within 1 degree of Aquarius, signifying the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one, (aside from marking the end of a solar year). Jupiter and Saturn will be within 1 degree of each other, also in Aquarius. Since Aquarius is the sign of freedom, Saturn in Aquarius will give us the determination to break through existing structures to find new, more sustainable ways to live. (That’s the extent of my knowledge but if you are at all interested, there is a lot more to know and you can find oodles of info online.)

There is no doubt, this has been a year like no other and this holiday season will be no exception to that. So many people are missing their family visits, traditions, and freedoms this season. There will be distinctions to reflect on, aspects of one’s own identity will possibly become clear in new ways, and creativity around new ways of celebrating and connecting will move into place. How is your sense of self shifting, or is it?

It’s especially important now, to utilize any opportunity you can, to stay connected to your inner world and your higher self, God, spirit guides, or whatever you know as Sacred. Fan the flames of your own inner light. At this time of darkness, we must be our own light. By doing so, we will add to the higher vibrations of all those around us and our Mother Earth as well.

Relationships may have issues surface in new ways to be addressed, there could be misunderstandings or old grievances among friends and family or in work settings. Maybe consider it the notification of needed “updates” to your operating systems. And respond to situations of any tension, with a curious mind and open heart, which will allow for a deeper understanding and alleviate any power struggles. Is this coming up for you?

I have recently fallen in love with my bed. My pillow is so soft and supportive and feels so good! And my covers are soft and warm… And I have paid special attention to the things I just LOVE. I feel lighthearted when I notice and appreciate their gifts to me and on some days doing the best I can might mean I really appreciate my pillow! When I am operating with a pretty full tank of self care, I can handle more strain without taking a downward spiral. But if I notice I’m feeling heavy and tight, I know I need to experience or even just reflect on something I really love and appreciate. I don’t know about you, but I am not sweating the same “little things” that I used to. I guess there are just too many to pay that much attention to anymore. How about you?

This aspect of new beginnings and the continuation of change that is effecting us in growing practical ways, will be supported by our increasing flexibility. My newest mantra has become “Maybe, I don’t know, I’m not sure” and I am really okay with that. I throw in a bit of interested curiosity with it too whenever I can.

Although it’s traditional to look toward the coming new year as an end to the current year’s difficulties, it doesn’t appear to be the case this time. All of the new beginnings to better innovations coming in, will take time to establish themselves. It may feel worse before it feels better in the outside world. But it’s all part of where we are in the process of this evolutionary change.

Stop Giving Your Energy to People Who Don’t Value It

I came across something someone shared online that I also thought to share with you. It was attributed to Anthony Hopkins although it was not verified. Regardless of who said it, there may be folks out there who may really benefit from this message. Perhaps it will speak to you in much the same way it did to me.

~~~ This may be the hardest thing you will have to do in your life. But, it may also be the most important thing. Stop giving your energy to those who don’t value it. Stop having hard conversations with people who don’t want to change. Stop showing up for people who are indifferent to your presence. I know your impulse is to do everything to win the good mercy of everyone around you, but it’s also the impulse that will steal your time, your energy, your mental, physical, and spiritual health.

When you start expressing yourself in life more completely, with joy, interest, and commitment; not everyone will be ready to meet you in this place of sincerity. That doesn’t mean you have to change who you are. That means you have to stop giving your energy to people who don’t value it. When you are excluded, forgotten, or easily ignored by people who you give your time to,you don’t do yourself any favor by allowing them your energy and your time.

The truth is, you’re not for everyone and everyone is not for you. That makes this world more special when you do find the people who you share true friendship and love with. You will know how valuable it is because you will have experienced what it isn’t. But the more time that you spend trying to be loved by someone who is incapable or unwilling, the more time you waste depriving the same connection you could have with someone who is. And the smaller you remain involved in the company of people who use you as a pillow, as a background option, who take but never give, the longer you withhold yourself from the company of those you desire.

If you stop showing up, you might be less wanted. If you stop trying, the relationship might stop. If you stop texting your phone may stay dark for days or weeks. Maybe if you stop giving so much energy to someone the relationship between you will dissolve. That doesn’t mean that you ruined the relationship. What that means is that all the relationship had going was the energy that you alone contributed to keep it afloat. That’s not love; that’s attachment. That’s wanting to give a chance to those who don’t want it.

The most valuable and most important thing you have in your life, is your energy. It’s not just your time that is limited, but your energy. What you give your energy to everyday, is what will define your existence. When you realize this, you start to understand why you’re so impatient when you spend your time with people who don’t suit you, in activities, places, and situations that don’t suit you. You are starting to realize that the most important thing you can do for your life, for yourself and for everyone you know, is to conserve your energy for those who would appreciate it.

Turn your life into a sanctuary where only those who are appreciative can gain entrance into that sacred space. You are not responsible for saving anyone. And it is not your responsibility to convince them to be saved. It’s not your job to exist for people, and to give them your life – little by little, moment after moment, because you feel pity, or obligation, or because you feel guilty.

Your only obligation is to realize that YOU are the one you have been seeking. And to BE the love you never received. Begin with this and watch as everything begins to change. ~~~ As we move into December’s bright, sharp and clear energy; things will move quickly. I know they have for me. There is a surge of creativity and activations for a cleanse of identity and building bridges from the old way to the new way. It may feel “topsy-turvy” and might require regular doses of forgiveness for ourselves and others. There is also an incoming of love and calm in the mix.

Out of the Darkness

This message come to you with my highest thoughts and prayers for your wellness and peace.

How are you navigating conscious and unconscious feelings reverberating on the planet right now? I am looking forward to connecting with each of you and hearing from you how you are learning, growing and what medicines you are using in this extreme time of change.
I want to share some of the information I have found supportive, maybe something here will be useful for you too.

From Lee Harris, Nov. Energy Update: This time of change can be very disorienting. The benefit of that design, is to help us open up to new ways of looking at things and choosing more consciously for ourselves what works. The next 3 to 5 years will be massive change for us. It will be a time of much “truth-telling” about things that have been hidden and are now rising to the surface; to be better accessed and healed. Trying to keep things from changing will not go well. Instead, find your people and places; your lighthouses. Check to see that you have what you need and be sure to check in with yourself on that regularly.
*** FIND YOUR NEW NORMAL! ***

Let yourself be where you are. Feelings are a vertical line to the Universe so when we are in our feelings rather than trying to get rid of them, we will allow ourselves to transmute them. 

Oddly enough, the most recent ThetaHealing session with Alexis Davis was also talking about feelings. “How to ask for what you want without anger.” We explored some of the reasons we sometimes don’t speak up truthfully about what we want, and the list of reasons hit home. They range from “I don’t want to upset them”, “It won’t do any good anyway”, to feelings of unworthiness and more. I loved the reference Alexis gave for the goal in asking for what we want when she said “It should sound and feel like when you tell someone ‘Hey, your shoe is untied.'” This Friday (11/20) we will talk more about the practical things we can do to address this issue effectively. If you have curiosity and want to know more about her and what she offers, her website is www.corevisions.net, or contact me.
In closing, I will share this blessing:

“Out of the darkness, “A ala a”, arise out of the darkness into the light. The dawning of a new day is upon you and with it brings a new beginning. A day, that is fresh and unused, a clean palate to paint upon your fondest dreams and your deepest prayers. May the light within you shine forever bright, and may you come out of the darkness of fear to the love of God within you. That IS your light. Blessing and peace upon all humanity, in this holy instant.” – Kahuna Kali’ilahi (A direct descendant of Lemuria who transitioned to the spirit world in October 2020.)

Seeds of Hope

It feels so “right” to lean-in to our connections; trusted and true during these days. So many of us are waiting for the political situations to settle, desperate for things to calm down. We have a need for order and safety. It is normal to reference the past as a “known” perhaps even predictable, to determine if we are safe or not. And now, we are in a position that requires us to establish for ourselves, in our day-to-day lives; our own order and safety.
Amidst the uncertainty, I turn to Nature. As I watch the songbirds feeding outside my window and hear their sweet sounds; I am called back to the domestic routines of my day. I, like them, need to think of food for the day, for myself and my family. As the heartbeat that continues throughout whatever uncertainty there might be; we are grounded in the business of life. Breathing in – breathing out. What a beautiful and simple way for us to anchor in the living world.

I recently listened to an interview with Cheryl Dembe, an extraordinary woman of our time. She received her PhD in Chemistry, with her study of fluidity and has since correlated chemistry and spirituality in her book The Choice of Happiness where she describes her account of being denied her PhD for twenty years for being a woman; and then received it with the help of a man who won a Nobel prize for the very same work she had successfully accomplished 20 years earlier. Here is a poem from her website that seems fitting.

“Seeds of hope feed off the light of the hopeful and bloom, scattering your heady scent of the Divine Mother up into the skies that it open the closed hearted and open the closed mind. Let the light of the All Mother shine through your brilliant beauty, your soft kindness and your tender love that the world might be renewed in purity through joy.
For this is the will of the Divine. Let it then be so.”

I invite you to share a poem or inspirational story with those who you gather in trust and align with. Together we can make a “soup” – a powerful elixir for the times!

Time to Build Resiliency, October 3, 2020

It feels like such a long time since we have sat together with friends. I miss seeing friends in the physical, and sharing heartfelt laughter or tears of deep feeling. There have been so many changes in our world, communities, and families. I send my love and prayers with this message, for your health and happiness.

It’s time to build on our resiliency. To develop on our existing skills gained by experience, and expand their reach to cover more ground. The times we live in, will continue to bring changes and although I believe we are in the Great Turning, I also believe it will test us to our core. At this Equinox, the seasonal Harvest part of the year, we are reminded to look ahead to the coming darkness and the wisdom in preparing for the needs it will bring.

What contributes to your resiliency?   For me, there are the basics; good rest, enough food and water. But up near the top of the list is whether my “tank” is full or closer to empty. It has to do with how alive I feel in my life, my sense of alignment with my goals and values. My relationship with trusted friends and heartfelt, authentic exchanges. And my ability to receive love.

How do you contribute to the resiliency of others?   For many of us, we don’t fully recognize or value our talents. It’s important to me that I mirror for others what I recognize as their strong suit or talents and accomplishments. It also means that I respect their abilities, and not do for others what they can do for themselves that I can then acknowledge and appreciate.

What might take your current resiliency to the next level?   I recognize the need to take responsibility for some physical ailments I have tolerated for a decade or more, thinking I was too busy and it wasn’t that important. I realize that may be true for an ideal scenario but not for tough times. I am also aware of the benefit of being practiced at rooting, running energy, and adapting to the flow in the moment, while holding a clear intention for healing and renewal. Independence is part of that goal. After all, the goal is not to survive, but to thrive!

This line of thought might be unfamiliar. We haven’t seen the challenges our parents and ancestors have faced. It may be unwelcome or trigger unrest. It will not help us to turn away from challenging situations, but to look ahead with an open mind and heart with curiosity to guide us. Let’s travel this path together and learn from each other.

Please, if this speaks to you take a few moments to consider these questions and jot down some thoughts. Perhaps you have examples to include as well.

A New Phase of Life, September 19, 2020

As I listen to the Junco’s jubilant and steady chatter outside the window, I am connected to the bigger space I am a part of. My heart traces the ribbons of love connections to sweet friends, longings, and there is ache too; all genuinely part of me this moment. The sun is up in the blue sky. The smoke has subsided finally and breathing is easier from the massive wild fire. I am so grateful.

Such abundant times. So much Life in all it’s array of experiences, feelings, and challenges. So many choices now made more personal or independent as we each find ourselves with more time and space or focus of intensity. Things stir and bubble until they find their new, better fitting place within us.

This is our new beginning. A new phase of life. We are not alone, we are part of a long and intricate weaving of lifetimes before us and after, that manifest beauty and love, courage and determination, channels of light. May we remember who we are and where we come from. May we recognize our being is part of a greater whole that we are gifted the opportunity to take part in.

As we tap in to the deeper currents of ourselves, I invite you to ponder for a moment one or all of these questions; and perhaps whatever comes up will be available to share with one another.

Who are your teachers?
Who do you invite as your personal guide or support?
How do you hold your connection to the bigger picture of Life?
What encouragement or advice would you offer your younger Self if you could?

The Great Pause, September 5, 2020

Feeling in-between, with the fire, covid, the economy and the election? So much is in the balance with each of these very weighty issues. No wonder so many of us are feeling the influence of uncertainty.

What to do, while we are waiting for things to settle…
How to use this opportunity for it’s fullest benefits…  
How to prepare ourselves for the abundance and redesign of the future…

All of Nature is in constant change and when for example the weather changes, it affects many things. As of not even two weeks ago, we saw how it can trigger wildfires and countless other changes as a result. I’m feeling called to not only reconcile this for myself but frankly, align with it, lean into it the way you might on a roller coaster ride as you start heading up and over that high point; raising your arms and feeling your stomach register the uncertainty and excitement.

If any part of this resonates with you, reflect on the three questions above for yourself. Perhaps jot a few thoughts down or incorporate it into your current journaling practice. Invite insight to come to you in your dream-time before sleep. Notice the messages you receive from your animal totems or guides. And if it doesn’t, reflect on whatever is lighting up for you.

The veils are thinner now than ever before. We are more and more, waking up to our connections to all Life, including nonphysical beings in other realms, and we have free will. Always remember you can invite those you choose to spend time with.
You are invited to join in the gathering this coming Saturday to put our minds and hearts together to offer an uplifting exchange of wisdom with each other. This kind of support can be invaluable, I know it is for me.

Perfect Storm or Divine Timing, August 15, 2020

We are now 5 full months into this altered life-style, due in part to the covid-19 pandemic. Lives are changed or are changing with the limit of any in-person social interaction. Many jobs have been discontinued and at the same time, we are growing in sensitivity to deep long held issues of equality in our country and with the upcoming election intensifying the issues even more. “Perfect Storm” or divine timing? And “as above so below” or in this case “the external so also the internal”?

 We are in review mode looking with more clarity than usual at the structure we have created collectively and individually. It is now time to re-member our creative powers as women and as humans, and dream our future into being. Once we wake-up from the state of hazy fear of being powerless or overwhelm, apathy, or burnout; we need to get to identify our purpose and direction.

Know for yourself who your friends, teachers, and supporters are in this realm and beyond. Its time to trust yourself and your inner guides. All indications are that the structure we have been used to relying on and working within, is in the process of great transformation. So it is in many cases unavailable to support us in the ways it has in the past.

For many of us, we are realizing we function better with more rest, a lighter or more focused work schedule and then lots of open space in our calendar. Our clear inner questions are bringing really quick and clear answers which allow us to take action. When we develop our relationship with ourselves, and trust ourselves; this experience is one of safety and stability amidst the chaos. It’s interesting to notice that the number five in numerology is about change, movement, and travel. In the tarot it is represented by the Chariot. It has to do with the moment we know and claim our own true power; to choose perhaps a new direction, to push past previous barriers, and to get “off-trail” if you know what I mean.

The energy for the month of August is said to be a significant shift toward cleansing and reset. We have heightened intuition and are wise to integrate it in our bodies. This is a great month to vision and set intentions, make those lists of what you now know you want to call in. Aspects of the new energy this month are continuing for the next 2 to 3 years. Find ways to stay calm and relaxed and remember you can unplug whatever information source or stimulus you choose to. This month marks a shift in power, freedom and control.

How is this showing up in your life?
Can you recognize correlations that are mentioned above?
What do you find supports your grounding and well being in this “new normal” lifestyle?
What kinds of support are working for you in your community, relationships, and inner world?
What do you need or want that might be out of reach? Are you willing to receive it?

Perhaps you can take a few minutes to journal some thoughts and feelings.