Be Courageous Be Brave

It looks like July could be a rough month for those not prepared to face their fears. Prepare by giving yourself some love. Tune into your passion and follow your heart. For the courageous, and I believe your one of the brave, this month will be a time of clearing out, cleaning up, and amazing success. With that in mind I offer this self-blessing ritual, to help you stay on track this month.

One of my Favorite Self-Care Rituals

I began the following ritual about 20 years ago and it has remained something I do on a regular basis to honor myself, my body and connection with Spirit. It is based on a ritual from The Shadow of the Shaman, by Amber Wolfe.

Though I often do this at the New Moon or Full Moon, it is fine to perform this ceremony at any time you wish to tune into what your body is asking of you, or simply as an “I love you” moment with yourself.

Incorporate the Earth Mother into this ceremony, or change it to your own preference of goddess, archangel, self-identity, religious deity…….. whatever is comfortable and loving for you.

I also sense the elements but that is not a requirement to offer self-love to your being.

The candle represents the fire within, the passion for life and love, and protection.

The incense represents air, creativity, spirituality and inspiration.

The salt represents earth, knowledge, wisdom, practicality and grounding.

The water represents emotions, ability to flow with life, intuition and healing balance.

You will need a candle, a bowl of water, a small amount of salt and incense if you have it. You may add gemstones, crystals, feathers or anything else that is comforting to you.

Put on some quiet music, if this helps you to relax or perform this outside at a fire pit.

Sit on the floor or ground, place the bowl of water and salt in front of you. Light the candle and incense, and begin to simply relax and breathe.

When you are ready mix the salt into the bowl of water, feeling that your emotional body is grounding with the Earth. Once the solution is mixed begin the following

SELF-BLESSING RITUAL

Dip your fingers into the bowl, and touch your forehead (3^rd eye area) and repeat “Bless me Mother for I am your child” Feel the love our Earth Mother moving deeply within you.

Dip your fingers into the bowl and dab around your eyes (careful not to get salt in your eyes) Say “Bless my eyes that I may see you”.  I like to think about how I am seeing myself as I do this.

Dip your fingers, touch your nose, and repeat “May your essence be absorbed and shared in my breathing, and may my breath be a blessing in this world.”

Dip your fingers again, touch your ears and say “May I be blessed with the sound of laughter, love, and wisdom.”

Dip your fingers again and touch your mouth, saying “May I bless the world with my communication.”

Dip your fingers again and touch your heart, saying “May I be blessed with love and may my love be unconditional towards all living things.”

Dip your fingers again and touch your Solar Plexus, repeating, “May I be blessed with inner power and intuition.”

Dip your fingers again and touch your lower abdomen, saying “Bless my cauldron center, that I may create harmony in this world.”

Dip again and touch your feet, saying “Bless my feet that I may walk softly on this earth, taking a firm stand when required and always walking in balance.”

Dip again and rub your hands together, saying “Bless my hands that they may touch the world with grace and healing; that I am able to reach out to the world and hold the hands of others.”

Now sit quietly for as long as you like, sending love into any areas of your body you feel need more love, asking your body what it needs from you to be happy and healthy.

When you are complete, blow out the candle, and clear the space. You may keep the salt water and use it in a bath or as a daily ceremony, dipping and touching any part of your body that would like a blessing.

If you choose to dispose of the water/salt mixture, return it to the earth in a way the salt will not kill any plants in the area.

Many Blessings to all.

Julie's Heaven 2017

MAY ALL THE WORLD KNOW JOY

MAY ALL THE WORLD BE WELL

MAY ALL THE WORLD BE PROSPEROUS

MAY ALL THE WORLD KNOW PEACE

 

 

2016 was a rough year for many of us, most of us in fact. I leave that behind now, inspired to create a New Year, a New Way of Being. The energies of the number 1 allow us to begin again, to adjust what has not been working and move into greater Universal Alignment. Spirit is calling on us to be aware, open and courageous enough to feel, speak and act from our truth.

 

 

Julie's Heaven is moving into alignment, with some price adjustments to allow more people to access the services provided. New services will be offered, aligning with greater relaxation, increased joy, enhancing your success factor. Without Joy we cannot know health, prosperity or peace. So moving forward Joy is the intention I hold for all of you.

 

 

The feather on the Logo represents Air - As we breathe in we allow Spirit to enter, as we breathe out we send our intentions, thoughts and feelings out into the world. I ask you to become aware of what you are breathing into life in each inhale and exhale you take.

 

Classes will center around this awareness, inviting all who wish to be a part of creating Joy to enter into partnership with other like minded hearts within the community and the region. We are not broken or in need of fixing - we are in need of more fun, relaxation, trust and fellowship.

 

A New Moon Circle will be held on or near the New Moon Phase and will be a setting for creating intentions, giving thanks and supporting each other in creating a world we want to live in. There will be ceremony, blessings, and fun stuff to do. Consider joining in, learning more about setting Intentions, Angels of Support, Goddess Energy, and finding Inner Happiness. If you would like to be notified of this, please contact me at jmelville@live.ca or send me a message on Facebook.

 

For those who need more support, Julie's Heaven will offer programs on a retainer basis, giving you more access than just a one off or weekly session which generally is not enough for some. Contact me with your needs and we will work out a program for you.

As I return to my more creative side, I will be offering Customized Essential Oil Blends. Let me know what support you need and I will create a specific blend suitable to the support you need.
 

Over the past few months I have come to own my identity as an Exploratory Mystic, not willing to settle for any status quo, wanting to know more and share more. I will continue to look for easier, joy filled ways to bring health and healing into the world, more ways to be at peace, to know prosperity, to feel fulfilled. The answers are within all of us, if we will open our hearts to hear the messages given to us in each moment of joy and despair.

 

I am so grateful for everyone in my life, so grateful for the lessons learned, so grateful to know we all have the power and abilities to create our lives, any way we choose. Choice is always the key. Though there are times when we feel helpless, we are never that. When life seems hopeless, we need only turn the page to find hope. When faced with what seems an unsurmountable obstacle, let Joy guide you through whatever lesson is there for you, or for those you love. In Joy all things are possible.

 

I reach out to all of you - asking what products, services, classes, support would help you to live in Joy. As I restock the store, your input will be invaluable.
 

Together we can make 2017 a Miraculous, Magical Year.

 



Beyond & Before Reiki Master

I invite you to look beyond even energy. Look to the place which is only Light. Light in all the colors of the spectrum, yet even brighter than you can imagine. Look beyond the sights and sounds of this physical world, to a place where all you  hear is the beating heart of the Universe. Feel the heart beat within you, strong, in unison with all living things, all inanimate things.

I invite you to feel into trees, rocks, homes, vehicles, ornaments, pictures, and even digital equipment. See beyond their physical appearance. Feel their light. Notice the differences in the shades of light.

Even if you have never been attuned to Reiki, you have the ability within you to see and feel, to process and communicate within this deeper world of understanding.

Even if you have been attuned, to Level I, II, or Master, you may not fully use your supported ability to go beyond what you see on the physical level.

For many Reiki is a healing modality, nothing more. Yet Reiki was never meant to be a mere healing modality. There is a reason, initiates spent a lifetime, studying, practicing and experiencing the laws of Reiki prior to becoming a Master. To fully embrace Reiki, you must be prepared to do the work of self love and forgiveness. You must condition yourself to see beyond what is before your physical eyes, your human heart and mind. To fully embrace the joy and expansion, you must be willing to let go of all of your humanhood - "to be in this world but not of it".

After nearly 20 years of practice, I find myself, still in awe of this total surrender, of which I am still practicing. As with A Course in Miracles, I believe we will always be students of the Course. Each day will bring new challenges to overcome, new ideas to support us in moving through the challenges. Through time, we continue to unravel the threads of our physical lives, as we move closer to the Light, closer to peace.

When we no longer feel the need to petition for our good, but accept everything as good, then we know we are reaching the place of Master. As we begin to see each moment as precious, never resentful of the past, nor worried about the future, we are beginning to trust the Reiki Force in our lives.  It is through surrender we heal. In order to be able to fully heal others, we must fully heal ourselves. This is the only way to be a clear, unhampered conduit of Reiki energy.

When we repress and carry our shadows, doubts and fears, there is transference between us and those we are healing. They can only heal to the extent of the healer doing the treatments. As Reiki initiates, we must never fool ourselves about our true feelings and beliefs.

Does this mean you should not offer treatment to others? Absolutely not. It merely asks you to be aware of where you are in your life and in the moment of treatment surrender all to the All. Do not let your ego enter in.

And just as those who have been trained in Reiki heal from their place of imperfection, so too can those who have not had training, offer healing to the world, to friends, family, animate and inanimate objects.

The study of Reiki does not end the day you become Master. It does not end the day your first client, friend, plant or pet is healed. Reiki is a lifetime, lifestyle study of Light and Love. To study and never become attuned, gives the initiate the same insight and opportunity to live from a place of Divine Surrender and Intervention. The symbols are additional support. The certificate is validation of your commitment. That is all.

I have become saddened by the fact, Reiki can be taken online, attunements done through distance without interaction with the Master who offers them. I find discomfort in seeing the almost snobbish attitude of those who have been attuned. A true Reiki Master or Initiate would never see themselves on a higher plane than others.

To carry the responsibility of Reiki is humbling. It is through this humility we allow ourselves to know nothing, so we can open to the unlimited possibilities which exist. These possibilities can only be shown to those who are willing to release, forgive, surrender, putting Love first, knowing they are yet servants to the Light which created them.

When we stand in this place of humble light, miracles occur. We become the co-creator.

As a servant to this Light, and in service to Reiki, a class is being created, to be offered over a 3 month period where those who have been attuned and those who may choose to be at some point, can learn the true value and meaning of living a Reiki lifestyle.
If this would interest you, please contact me at jmelville@live.ca.

On Reiki, Miracles, Healing and Dreams

And so continues my Reiki Life. I often ask what life would be like now, if I had not taken that first class, or the second or stepped up as a Reiki Master.

The more I focus on Reiki working in my life, the more I realize how much there is we do not know about energy, and how it changes our metabolism, hormone balance, broken bones, and other upsets in our physical bodies. How does it recognize illness before it attaches to our physical body? How does its gentle flow heal a broken heart? How does it bring prosperity?

Do we need to how?

As I sit with the names (and some pictures) of those who have requested distant healing twice a week, I often find myself skeptical that it is even worth my time. Then a message comes from someone on the list who is now well enough to be removed, and many asking me to add loved ones. (I only add with permission from each individual) So even beyond my skepticism the Universe works through me to bring another into balance. How cool is that?

The more classes I hold and the more I speak with people about this wonderful healing system, I begin to see and feel Reiki is more than a modality, it becomes our life, guides our life and even molds or controls our decisions, actions, words and thoughts. But only if we let it.

Like raising several children, Reiki can be taught by the same person, and yet so many variations result. Each individual brings to Reiki a different perception, a different vibration, a different intention and Reiki returns to each individual with resonating vibration. Many have taken their first level and returned to their lives somewhat or unseemingly touched. They will say it made no difference in their lives or their lives seemed worse. To the first I ask, the same as I ask myself daily, "What would my life be like now had I not stumbled into that first level?" To the second, we must realize our lives will often seem worse when we make steps to alter our current path. The falling away is a simple process the Universe uses to make room for bigger and better things, taking away the distractions and opposing vibrations so we can take on something new. For everyone I believe the perfect Reiki energy plants the seeds within you, to be for you what you need at all times in your life.

At times I wonder if people think I am pushy about my belief in Universal Control and Guidance. It is my passion. I have seen how when we turn within and ask for help, so much good comes piling in on us. I guess I want that for everyone. Even now, though I live a happy comfortable life, I keep looking for ways to create more love, joy and peace in the world. So yes, sometimes I seem pushy, but it comes from a place of love. No matter where we are on the path, stopping or becoming complacent shifts everyone into a stagnant or downward spiral. We do not continue our studies because we think we are not yet good enough; we continue them because the more we learn, the more we want to learn, and the more we realize we know nothing, yet. We also keep learning to stay in an upward vibration which brings all of the world into an upward vibration. Maybe someday, if enough of us keep gathering together we will know peace and prosperity for all. I hope so.

Whether the energy is Reiki, another spiritual practice or a belief in a practical application of intention combined with love, it doesn't seem to matter, our lives can be shifted in an instant. That I see as a miracle and it is the miracles which keep me wondering, practicing, learning and sharing. But is it me pushing towards the miracle or is the miracle pushing me?

Reiki has become a lifestyle for me, though I know I still have much work to do before I have perfected all of the principles on a 100% basis. I think no matter what we choose as our path, we will always strive to be perfect, but no where do the principles or practice say perfection is a requirement. Even the Reiki Prayer says, "Just For Today". And it seems to me, that even when we only give 10% Reiki will step in to do whatever has to be done to give us a boost, give healing, peace, and joy.

As I return to my studies on herbology and shamanic practices, I find myself wondering, "Am I integrating Reiki into these studies, or is Reiki integrating me into the studies and practices, ceremonies, crafting and ritual?" Do we create our desires or is there a Higher Power, who sees our interests, skills and abilities, that creates It's dream within us, asking us to express the dreams and goals within It?

Do you have a dream or a desire you are not sure where it came from? I often ask myself, "Whose idea is this anyway?" The answer that comes is always, "Does it matter?" "Do it anyway."

Knowing Doesn't Matter

There has been so much power flowing into life these past few months. Some see it as chaos, others see it as the destruction of the old to make way for the new. Others, especially those who love change and challenge are in their glory.

It becomes so clear, as we watch the reactions to this new and wonderful transformation of life, that perception is key, our belief systems hold the answers to our questions.

The New Moon this past week brought many insights and dreams. Many were so metaphorical, I am still processing, though I know the understanding will come in time. One, however, was very clear and I was instructed to share it.

Whenever there is something important I need to see or understand, eagle comes to me in meditation or dream time. He gently spreads his wings and offers to take me above the fray so I can see more clearly, the bigger picture of a situation. I pull back when eagle wants to take me beyond the limitations of this galaxy. Though I am willing to see our earthly realm from a deeper, wider perspective, willing to travel to the Akashic Field to access new ideas and understandings, I have not been ready or willing to go beyond the beyond.

As I climbed on eagle's back, spanning my arms across his wing span, I got a sense this was not going to our usual tour of relaxation and reassurance. As we took off from our place on the beach, I noticed that it was not the usual gentle breeze, clearing my mind, but rather a strong gale, making me fearful we would not get off the ground.

Once we were above the wind force, I suddenly realized all I thought I knew was gone. When I tried to think there was nothing I knew, at least nothing I felt sure I knew. Confusion settled into a gentle peace and for the first time in a long time, it was okay to know nothing. All of my beliefs were replaced with simple love, light.....

As usual we passed over my childhood - the farm where I grew up learning about nature, plants, the stars, the clouds and people. This time however I had no recollection of my beliefs or judgements of any of it. There was just a sense that all of this had brought me to this time on eagle's wings, seeing the world differently, without judgement or expectation.  Tears of joy began streaming down my face and falling toward the earth, creating a rainbow. I found myself focused on this rainbow, feeling as though it was my creation, finding myself feeling proud of my accomplishment.

I was so intent on what I thought I had created that I did not notice eagle had passed our usual landing point until I saw it in the distance. I called for eagle to return. With a chuckle he said, "If you had not been so busy fluffing your own feathers, you would have seen where you were going." Such humility befell me, I could only hold on and reach out for trust and faith in where I was being taking, against my will.

I watched as we approached a narrow portal and wondered how we would ever pass through. Yet I felt the strength of eagle passing through me and in awe I felt myself surrendering to this force much greater than I could ever be. I closed my eyes for just a moment and when I opened them, we had moved from the earthly realm to a place so familiar I could not help but feel at home. Eagle landed and let me slide off his back and sit in what seemed mid-air and yet I felt supported. I also felt protection and a love I had never felt before. I looked around and found the stars of my youth, but brighter, more clear and could feel the warmth they offered. Clouds drifted by with messages, animals and ideas, much as I noticed as a child, but in this space they offered hope and laughter more profound than I had known. Throughout my childhood and even as a mom, I often saw dragons in the clouds and I would holler to the wind (and my daughter) "fear not for I'm a dragon slayer". This time I did not feel the need to slay the dragon. As she approached with fire blazing I opened up, allowing her flame to burn the remnants of painful memories away. I felt such gratitude for her presence. I felt the moonlight, cooling the flames and pulling all resistance from my body and my mind.

As the sun began to rise, the colors overwhelmed my senses and the heat seemed to be dissolving me, melting away all parts of who I thought I was. I looked for eagle, wanting to leave before I could no longer breathe. And then, all panic left. All there was, was light. Light so gentle, yet filled with colors we cannot paint.

And from this place I heard a quiet voice, "Ask, Thy Will Be Done for it is then you shall receive." "No longer be afraid to travel where you do not know, for here there is so much to learn, and nothing you learn will matter anyway." "All you need is given you, and all you need is love."

I do not know if eagle brought me home......

Possibilities have NO LIMITS

These past few weeks I have spent pondering abundance, forgiveness, the ego, being happy when the world around me seems to be falling apart.....

What right have I to feel so much peace and bliss?

My heart breaks as I sense and see so much pain in others. It seems so easy to move into a space of joy, yet there are many who cannot seem to find this place where all is well and possibilities abound.

I ask myself if I have closed my heart, and yet I feel their pain, so no, I believe in my capacity to love, without judgement or conditions. Yet there is an impatience within me, where I just want everyone to be happy, to feel blessed, to understand the Miracle of Life.

If I could create this Miracle I would feel complete. It has been my quest since the age of 13 to bring joy into the world. Admittedly, I have often fallen over the cliff and found myself in depths of despair, greater than can be explained in this short blog. As I look back on those days when I was miserable, bringing many with me, I see it was all part of the plan to bring me back to where I am today - HAPPY FOR NO REASON or at least no logical reason.

Now, in meditation, I can see there is never a logical reason for living in joy. Joy does not come to us because we think it should, it comes because we know we are loved, protected, cared for, and blessed by something greater than logic. Miracles abound when we lose our sense of logic and open up to a world of nature, and natural progression.

Peace settles upon us when we no longer feel a need to compete or be better, faster, smarter, prettier - when we can come to a sense of who we truly are. As I wrote in "Don't Change For Heaven's Sake" when we start living from our Core Essence, we begin to acknowledge a Greater Force working in and through us, guiding us around obstacles and through the misty nights.

We must only be aware of the ego still fighting to be in control, telling us we are unworthy, in danger, alone, and dying. Quiet that little voice, keeping you up at night, worrying for your future. Your future is in good hands, if you will only open your heart to your Source of All Miracles.

Abundance surrounds you. Look at the sky, the trees, the grass, the birds. They are the abundance, and so are you. Feel it within you. You are filled with an abundance of ideas and inspiration if you will let go of the need to be logical. Your heart is overflowing with love, if you will let go of expectation and judgement. You have within you the Energy of Creation, where everything you could ever imagine is waiting for you to do just that. Bring it into your thoughts, move it into your heart, down into your solar plexus, then take the action required to bring it into the world.

Life is just waiting for you to choose between living in fear through the ego or living in joy through the expression of Source. It is the biggest choice you will ever make. At first it seems as though life is getting harder, as so much begins to fall away. You feel like you are losing. But stay with the course, keep your faith on a Greater Power at work, all that is taken is what is holding you back, keeping you stuck, stealing your joy. Let go, keeping your thoughts and emotions on the ideas you have for peace, love and joy. After the cleansing process you will begin to notice the sun shines a little brighter each day, there is a difference in the way you feel, you are less triggered by external events, and before long you will be waking up looking forward to what each day might bring.

And even though I wish this bliss for everyone, I am beginning to understand there are those who have found pain to be more valuable than joy, those who would not know how to live from a place of trust and faith. They are here to remind us, "there go I, but for the Grace of God". No one can be forced into happiness, it is a path we must choose, and to get there we must be prepare for seeming loss and even greater pain, until we understand there was never anything to fear, and nothing real can be taken from us or lost. Our choice must be to allow the Expression of Creator to move through us and in that moment everything but a love for life will remain. In that instant a blanket of protection drapes over us, and all there is, is joy.

At the core of your being, everything you desire is waiting .........

Clearing Toxic Energy (Meditation Included)

I have spent the past couple of days, thinking and meditating about the number of us who are feeling the stress of being with other people right now. We find we are coming home exhausted, feeling fearful, worried, anxious and unsettled. Deep in our being we know this is not our energy, for when we sit in silence we feel the joy and hope still bubbling up from within.

We are the empaths of the world, sensitive to the energy around us, feeling other people's feelings, and being drawn into the drama and chaos of our external world, all the while knowing this is not the truth of our being.

There are several ways to clear this energy and ways to protect ourselves from it, but for many these long held rituals of self-care are not working as well as they used to. So what is going on?

A sleepless night brought me the following insights, which I will share for your contemplation.

Perhaps the usual bubble is being penetrated because the energy is too strong from the collective consciousness. We can amp up this bubble of light using mirrors to deflect the energy back.

The answer I got for this is we need to be diligent in removing and clearing the bubble at the end of each day, stepping into the shower and clearing all energy which has penetrated the bubble. See it being washed down the drain with the water. I also like to use an Epsom and Himalayan salt mixture in bath water to clear toxins from my energy field and from my body. I do this on a weekly basis, no matter what exposure I have had to sadness or fear.

If we use mirrors we may only be amplifying the chaos, anger, fear and anxiety, rather than defusing it. If we are to be Lightworkers, our focus is to bring healing, not create more harm. So this did not feel good for me, though I will continue to use it where vicious or malicious intent is present in interaction with others.

I was asked to consider how much is what I am picking up on, others energy or small remnants of toxic energy still belonging to me. Is it possible that we are still only picking up on energy we have not fully cleared from ourselves. Remember we are One. What we see in the world is a reflection of our beliefs. Now, I know for the most part we have done our work, cleared up the "crap", but what is still lurking in the shadows? Are we being asked to move deeper into our being and clean up the last dregs of guilt, shame, remorse, vengeance, jealousy? Is there still a part of us feeling lack?

I am called to return to Ho'oponopono where we use the word (directed toward ourselves) for that which we feel another has done to us, or made us feel badly. The words are "I love you. I'm sorry. Please forgive me. Thank you." You can read more about it by clicking on the previous link. Here is an example from my session last night.

"Please forgive me. Please forgive me for these thoughts of lack lurking in the shadows of beingness. Please forgive me for any time I have hurt another without intention." "I am sorry. I am sorry for any time I have made another feel threatened or intimidated in my presence. I am sorry for those times when I have had malicious or vengeful thoughts against another." I am sorry, please forgive me for feeling like others will get more than I." "Please forgive me. " "I love you. I love you for your kind and gentle ways. I love you for your generous nature and the way you choose to see the good in all things." I love you. You are divine love and light." "Thank you. Thank you for being strong when all things seem to be out of alignment." "Thank you for caring about the earth and the world" "I love you. Thank you."

Read the information on the link and then just begin with the phrase, allowing anything to come up for you. This should not be a script, but simply spoken from the heart. Think of what you are sensing from others, and then clear yourself of these same emotions. When we heal ourselves, we bring healing to a thousand others. If you need help with this let me know. jmelville@live.ca

Keeping yourself grounded and connected to Source will also help you remain strong in the face our current economy and chaotic world. Send love outward as often as possible and spend time in meditation for love on our planet and in our Universe.

For those who have taken Reiki I, use the 21 day healing program faithfully and then as needed. For those who have not taken a Reiki class, simply place your right hand over your heart and following your breath, send loving energy toward yourself. Even a few minutes of this can be beneficial.

Smudge yourself and your home, even the workplace if you will not be ridiculed or questioned.

Call upon Saturn Energy to clear you of toxins and toxic beliefs you may be carrying.

Most of all, love yourself, no matter how others around you are feeling. Do not feel the need to engage in less than inspiring, upbeat, supportive conversations.

Get as much sunlight and fresh air as you can.

Be thankful of everything good in your life and in each moment. Become aware that the ground you walk on is Holy Ground, created for your pleasure.

For a guided meditation for grounding and clearing click the link below
https://www.dropbox.com/s/k6n4k3ntah53v57/Healing%20Session%201.mp3?dl=0

I hope this brings peace to your heart and into your part of the world. Know you are blessed and you are a blessing.

Reiki As A Way Of Life

With every class I hold and every session I do, I feel the depth and breadth of Reiki flowing in our Universe.

It is difficult to put into words the experience of Reiki, yet so many ask how this modality is different from other Energy Medicine. I feel at times I am being asked to rate it, as better than another form, or on a scale of 1 - 10. This is not possible, at least not for me. I am not a "Reiki Snob" who believes this path is better than another. I will not get into a discussion such as those who herald their religion as the one and only or better than another. I will however attempt to give some idea to those who ask, what Reiki has done for me.

Reiki (as I experience it) is not a religion or a spiritual path per se, rather I see it as a protected, sacred way of being aware of who we are. It teaches us to let go, to allow the Universe to provide the best possible scenarios for our life. When we tune into this Sacred Art, we give permission for the Divine to take control, and relieve our ego of what it believes is it's responsibility. This idea of giving up control is scary for many, but through the process of attunements, we begin to see how much we are loved and protected when we allow a greater power to take the reins and steer us in the right direction. The principles are a way of life, not an in the moment kind of healing tool.

A friend can attest to the difference in my healing energy before and after Reiki Attunements. You see, we all run energy and with a right intention can create amazing change in our health and in our world. Energy is moved even without our thinking about it. Before attunements healing efforts using energy were sporadic and unpredictable.  After the attunements, there was less of me (the ego) and more of Spirit flowing through, creating change to a place of Divine Transmission. Spirit has a way of knowing what is really needed, the ego only believes it knows what is best for another.

We live in a vibrational world - a world of light and sound. We are composed of this light and sound so whenever we make a conscious attempt to create a specific change it will correspondingly adapt to our new vibration. It will also adapt to the vibration around us if we do not know how to protect our fields of energy which are put in place to protect us. Reiki teaches us how to keep these energy fields clear. Knowledge of Chakras is beneficial for this as well whether or not one is Reiki Attuned. When we protect our energy field there is less ability for the toxic energies around us to influence our health and happiness.

The symbols of Reiki help us to maintain our focus. These symbols are not a cure for anything, but symbols are energy and the direction and intention of moving energy in the way of the symbols help to protect us, protect those we are healing, as well as change the flow of energy for the benefit of all.

Most people who have been attuned find their house plants, gardens, pets and circumstances also become more aligned for a higher purpose. Plants, animals, family members and friends notice a higher rate of health and happiness. Those attuned will find they are able to better communicate with guides, angels and Universal Helpers. Some find they can see the auric or energy fields around people and things, thus being better able to serve others. Those attuned often find heightened intuition.

Will becoming Reiki attuned give you the ability to win lotteries or become rich overnight? Probably not. Reiki is not a tool which allows manipulation of events or people. It does however with sacred intention bring about the highest good for all in every situation where Reiki is allowed to flow. It will never permit a practitioner to use the practice for harm to anyone or anything. Reiki is Sacred and is the flow of Divine Energy. Spirit does not know or understand harm, hate, vengeance, anger, or spite and therefore cannot be used for such vices.

I hear people who have been attuned speak of turning this energy on and off. My experience is that you cannot do this. Once attuned Reiki just flows all the time. You can however let the ego override, which so many of us do with ease. When you lose sight of the sacred, the ego can still step in and take over a healing session, or manipulate a series of events. That is why I always caution people to get to know their practitioner before accepting healing work with them. It is important to know your healing is in your hands, in partnership with the Divine within and without.

Practitioners do not always seem as though Spirit is working in their favor. You will still see them struggle with day to day worries and concerns. They may still struggle financially or have their own health problems. Normally what you do notice though, is they move through these seeming struggles in a more peaceful state than those not attuned or at least familiar with how they are moving energy in their lives.

Often practitioners have even greater struggles. This is simply an indication they have agreed to overcome some pretty major lessons in this life time. Most recognize they are being given gifts, strengthening their ability to stay in trust and faith, knowing they are not only learning, but also teaching others, through their struggle. Just as Jesus met with deep pain and sacrifice for his love of God, so do practitioners meet with major events which test their faith, while giving faith to others.

Reiki helps us to turn inward when times are tough so we can see the bigger picture. With Reiki we can still our minds and open our hearts, knowing what is happening externally is just a reflection of beliefs we need to clear and heal. Through love, and the use of symbols we can ground and balance in order to stay above the debilitating sorrow that comes to many in times of trouble.

Reiki does not make us less human. It does however make us more humble as we realize we do nothing without Spirit. We are merely expressions and conduits for Divine Interaction and Intervention. We, of ourselves, do nothing, but all things can be done through us, if we are willing to let go of the ego, putting the best interest of all first and foremost in our hearts and minds.

The attunements were the difference for me, though I cannot explain why. Perhaps it gives an official feeling to the studies; perhaps the symbols do forever change the energy flow around us, or perhaps having the attunements ignites our own sacred, divine self so we are willing to step out of the way and let life flow as it will for our best interest. Each person you talk to will give a different viewpoint of Reiki and the attunements. Few will ever say it harmed them in any way.

Most of all I want to note, there is no reason to fear those who practice Reiki. They have no special power to harm you. They are not super beings with super powers. They are people who choose to put love, peace, health and prosperity first and foremost into life - both yours and theirs.

For those attuned I hope reading this article helps you to recognize the sacred gift you hold. To those considering attunements I hope this helps you make a decision for a more peaceful life where you begin to recognize the small and major blessings as miracles of life. For those who are just curious or have been afraid up till now, I hope you have a better understanding and less fear.

I know I will always be grateful for having stumbled onto this sacred gift. I give thanks to a very special person who began my journey into a broader perspective of life so I could be guided to have this gift bestowed upon me. Had it not been for learning the Chakras, Wicca, Shamanism, and Angels I would not be the person I am today, with many human faults yet to overcome, but happy for no reason, because I know nothing which is mine to hold can ever be taken, and all I wish to receive will be given to me through my giving to others.

Our paths to Reiki will differ. Our experiences of Reiki will be varied. One thing is constant with or without training, energy will flow in our lives. We have the choice to be aware and use tools to harness the energy for good or remain asleep, falling prey to the external energy around us.



Reiki - Creating Sacred Healing Space

Image Credit: www. reikitahoe.com

       Calling the Directions for Healing or Sacred Space

Once you have taken a moment to ground and center, focus your attention and intention to the idea of creating a healing sacred space for yourself and/or clients

Draw the double Cho Ku Rei doorway (if you are Reiki attuned) facing the East direction - the place of beginnings, illumination, vision and being in the moment.

Say and feel the following (or create your own invocation):

I invite the healing energy of the east to be present here, bringing with it the ability to let go of hindering beliefs, the fire of passion and illumination. Thank you for being present in this space for the highest good of all who enter here.

Turn to the South, draw Cho Ku Rei and say the following, feeling the energy flow into your being:

I invite the energy of the south to be present here, bringing with it strength of emotions, trust and vulnerability that I may share my truth with integrity. May I be filled with playfulness and the inquisitiveness of a child, to honor new teachings and information given here. Thank you for being present for the highest good of all who enter here.

Turn to the West, draw Cho Ku Rei and say the following, with feeling and intent:

I invite the healing energy of the west to be present here, bringing with it the willingness to surrender, to let go of limiting perceptions of the world. I give thanks for the setting sun, consuming any old patterns and addictions, allowing me to create healing in this space.

Turn to the North, draw the Cho Ku Rei and say the following with conviction and resolution:

I invite the energy of the North to be present here, bringing with it earth's healing energy, the wisdom of maturity, allowing me to reflect and to know what is for the highest good of those who enter here. Thank you for infusing all who enter with the desire to change what no longer serves, to feel safe and protected as they allow healing to occur for their highest good.

When the day is over close this space by thanking each of the directions and releasing them. Then energy created will be cleared and swept away so in the morning as you call it in again, it will be fresh and new, as each day should be.

Using this technique daily will bring a new perspective and strength to your healing, whether it is for you or clients. Those without Reiki Training can simply feel into the words without the symbols and create beautiful sacred space in their home, on their property, at the work place, anywhere they choose to create sacred healing space.

May you know the Blessing you are in this world.

 

 

 

Just For Today I Will Not Anger

"Just for today, I will not anger
 Just for today, I will not worry
 Just for today, I will be grateful
 Just for today, I will do my work honestly                  
 Just for today, I will be kind to every living thing"

Does this Prayer ask us to repress our feelings or pretend everything is okay when it feels no where near okay?

I don't believe it does. I think it asks us to look beyond what is happening in our external world and look within to see why we are experiencing the feelings in the moment. I think it is asking us to view the subtle difference between feelings (what is happening right now) and emotions which are the long held feelings we use to trigger our reactions in the present.

If we can for one minute believe there is nothing that can be taken from us, that no harm can come to us, that we are beings of light and love, held safely no matter where we are or what we are doing, then we can transcend the need for anger and worry.

Reiki asks us to be grateful, it asks us to honor our ancestors, our guides, our angels. Reiki invites us to heal our fears, the fears of others and in doing so ease our pain and suffering - mental, physical, emotional leaving us a place where we can live with the principles of Spirit and the Laws of the Universe.

Reiki offers us the opportunity to experience oneness with all things. When we operate from this place we are able to heal ourselves, which results in healing for our loved ones, animals, pets, plants, situations and people we have never met.

Anger is a good example of a fear based emotion that is dangerous to our planet, to our existence. Anger blocks energy, creates stagnation, and when held onto creates illness in both the giver and receiver. Many believe anger is justified and called for in certain circumstances, but one must only realize that we cannot end war with more war, more anger. It is the same whatever the situation is creating anger within you. You cannot win a battle with anger as it only blocks the solution from moving in to resolve whatever the issue is. If in the moment you begin to feel anger welling up inside you, you ask yourself what is the reason I am feeling this way, push forward with asking yourself if your reason is true, and holds a solution - do this until you find a true statement. See what is missing in your life. See what you feel is being threatened. Can anyone take away your true self? The answer is no. No matter what happens you will always be you. Anger only hides the light of you from others.

Some use anger as a manipulation to have what they want delivered in the way they expect - there by the quote, "Would you rather be right, or happy?" Life will only give us what is best for us if we let it. Sometimes what is right for us does not come in the way we would choose it to. Do not let this make you angry. Instead choose gratitude and move forward, in love. A cold shoulder and a shroud of anger leave no room for others to support you, no room for the apology you seek, no room for amends to be made.

Worry is much the same. It blocks the energy of a solution, blocks the window of opportunity, pushes resources away. Worry says I do not trust the Universe to assist me. Worry says, I am not safe, I am not protected, I am not cared for. Worry says you are separate from the Source that supplies all things. Worry says you have no faith, no trust. What you believe is what will be - a Universal Law. Worry, too will cause illness. Is illness worth the worry you give to things which you have no control?

If we will but wear this world lightly around our shoulders, without attachments to past events we will begin to see each scenario played out with new eyes, new feelings, new perceptions. Each time we let go of the past as a gauge of the present and future we open a new door for new experiences. When we hold feelings, creating emotions, we begin to live in a cyclical pattern which never changes and never ends. We can see the circle of our lives. Let go of the past and begin to see your world spiral, each time expanding and grower ever stronger.

With gratitude, as suggested in the prayer, you will begin to see your world in a whole new way, where anger and worry give way to love and forgiveness. From this place of appreciation new and wonderful events begin to happen and once again the spiral circles round, growing ever larger. Gratitude creates joy, joy creates love, love allows us to forgive rather than be angry. In this way the whole world is blessed by your presence. This is the epitome of Reiki - to allow yourself to become a blessing, a healer of the world.

Having let go of anger and worry, adopting gratitude you will find it easier to go out into the world as an authentic human being - perhaps not always saying or doing the perfect thing and the right time, but always from a heart space of truth and love. That is to do your work honestly. To do the work is to work on your inner plane, changing within what hurts you without. Always what is causing anger and worry is something from within, it has nothing to do with words said, or actions taken - these are only triggers. Working honestly is accepting your responsibility for everything going on in your life. There is no room for blame or vengeance.

In honesty and authenticity, kindness will come more easily but it is often the most difficult of the principles, because sometimes you may find yourself feeling like a doormat. This is not what this principle asks of you. There are times when you must speak up for yourself, or point out where others are hurting you, or perhaps hurting themselves. Speak from your heart and trust your words will be heard from the place of love you speak them. Some may take offense, become angry, walk away. You cannot help that - it is they who must work on their inner stuff or deal with your truth however it best suits them - continue to love them anyway.

Each of you will have your own perception of the principles. This is only my interpretation. As I work daily with Reiki, I delve more deeply into the principles. Experience is the best way to understand the words of the Prayer, remembering words never fully explain anything, they are always open to personal translation.

I share this because I am asked so often about anger and worry. May this post serve as a place where you can begin your own experience of the prayer.

Victim or Victory?

 WHO IS MORE POWERFUL?

  THE PERSON PUSHING THE ROCK OR THE PERSON HOLDING BACK THE ROCK THAT IS ROLLING ONTO THEM?

 

 

 

 

Of course we think to ourselves the one pushing the rock down the hill will have more power behind them. They have the law of gravity on their side. We cannot see in this picture how big the person is who is pushing the rock, and really it is of little consequence. The young small person holding the rock back, you are thinking, will be crushed. What law of nature does he have on his side?

 

How often have you been in this situation? You feel like you are powerless and the rock and person pushing it are just to big and strong to stand against. You think of giving up and giving in. How many times have you been pushed this way, yet found your own inner power to push back and survive?

 

I was thinking this morning of personal power; it's use and abuse in our daily lives. This picture created the vision of what it is like to be in circumstances seemingly beyond our control because there are people who would abuse their power, pushing against us as though wanting to crush our spirit. Are they truly powerful people? Can they, even with the power of influence on their side, crush anyone who stands in their path? They seem to think so. Somehow in their perception they justify their reasons for pushing that rock. They feel a sense of power in winning a battle, that was of their own choosing. They create the circumstance and drama in which to beat down one who appears to be a threat to their power or status. If a rock is not available they will simply "pull the rug out" from beneath you, leaving confusion and disappointment in their wake, while they feel the surge of adrenalin that comes from winning a mighty battle. Are they really so powerful? Have they won any great prize?

 

I look at so many such circumstances, where one has to create a victim, in order to feel worthy in their own lives. How sad and pathetic it is.

 

If you had to choose, which would you be? The person pushing the rock, the rock, or the one who is pushing back to hold on to their own life? Many would rather be the one on the other side of the rock. It seems easier doesn't it? But is it? It certainly appears safer in the moment. The truth is we all have the choice, and many of us have been all three during the course of our lifetime. Sometimes we have not even been aware of the consequence of our choices, we have unknowingly bought into a drama or scenario, that causes us to take on one of the roles. But if you could be aware of all your actions, words, and decisions, which would you choose?

 

Though at times I get tired of pushing back against the boulders of life, it is my choice. When I look upon the would be victims of this world, I see the strength of mankind, a much more powerful law than the law of gravity. Strength to keep holding on each day is far greater than the strength it takes to roll a rock downhill. If you saw the young person in the picture as a victim you are wrong. Those who are kicked when they are down, are not a victim at all. Society only makes it so. Society justifies it as victimhood so they can feel the power of their own influence; so they can feel powerful. In actuality those who use their position in life to crush others are the victims, they are the ones we should pity. How sad their guilty triumphs must be when looking back on their life at the end of time.

 

For those who see themselves as the victim, as you stand holding back the rock, wanting to just let go and be crushed, I say, keep pushing. You are always stronger than the obstacles you face and you have the power of the Universe behind you. Feel your power as you see the threat against you. No one can take from you your most valuable asset, your self-worth, and you are much more worthy than the one pushing or the rock itself. Your integrity to keep going, is much more valuable to the world, than the influence of those who push. Continue to stand in your truth for you can be trusted. Hold fast to your belief in yourself for you will know authentic success. Forgive those who torment you, for they are the ones to be pitied. Stand with your head held high, knowing you there is no force in this life that can hold you back from your dreams and desires. Stand up for yourself against these would be bullies, not with brute force, but with compassion for the pain they must be feeling. You will find yourself at the top of the hill, looking down at the pile of boulders pushed your way, and know the true power of survival. And in the moment you can feel the triumph of being a true winner, a champion of life.

 

 



Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays!!

The Christmas season has begun. For many shopping is already complete. Others are just beginning to think about what they will buy for friends and loved ones. Still others are feeling the hurt that comes with knowing they are going to have a year with no presents under the tree. Some will not even have a tree or a home in which to celebrate the season.

Each year my heart goes out to those who cannot meet the social expectations of Christmas. I remember as a child, the difference between how we celebrated, compared to school mates and neighbors.

Mom spent hours baking, using recipes from the war years when supplies were limited. Chocolates made from mashed potatoes and flavorings (maple, mint, orange, lemon). They were delicious. There was always gingerbread men and sugar cookies, which we helped to decorate. There was fruitcake, vinatarta (fig layer cake), and oatmeal logs.

Our tree though small and real, was simply decorated. Under the tree were very few gifts. Santa always brought things we needed, and one present that was along the lines of what we dreamt of receiving. Christmas eve we settled around the tree listening to Christmas carols, reading "Twas the Night Before Christmas", talking and opening one gift.  On Christmas morning we would find our stockings, made by our sister Jayne, filled with a mandarin orange, a few hard candies and peanuts in the shell.

I remember the peace which filled our home, beginning with the first day of baking and preparation right through the season. I don't remember all of the presents I ever got, nor even exactly what our tree was like. I remember pulling taffy in the snow. I remember mom being so careful where she hid special treats, so we wouldn't eat them before Christmas day.  I remember sitting together, being a family, reading from the bible, playing monopoly and scrabble. I miss those days. I miss that feeling.

Yet I always dreaded going back to school or to the arena to skate, knowing I would be asked, "What did you get for Christmas?" The rolled eyes at my delight over simple gifts when they had received so much more still leaves me humbled. But I knew even then, I was the lucky one. Could they not see what Christmas was really about? I wonder if they see things differently now?

I am so grateful to have received the best gift in the world each year - the gift of love.

My heart goes out to those who cannot meet the accepted standard of Christmas and those who work extra long hours to buy their children exactly what is on their list, or at least something on the popular gifts to buy list. My heart goes out to those who have no family to celebrate with. I feel helpless for those who will spend the nights of the season cold and hungry, knowing if we took what was spent over the next month on last minute gifts, guilt gifts and tinsel we could at least for a few days make life easier for them. If we took what we spent over the years we have celebrated beyond magical, we could rehabilitate and educate a good number of people unable to find work or live in our society filled with expectations and judgements.

During a time in my life when income was low, I discovered the gift of giving to a food kitchen offering Christmas dinner to the homeless. I chose between giving there or giving more to my daughter. It felt good knowing others were enjoying hot turkey, dressing, cranberries and salads, friendship, while I was able to sit around the tree, in my warm home, loving my family. And so each year I give to them, along with the other holidays, and give thanks for all I have. I am grateful for the love in my life, a warm cozy home, hot meals, warm clothes, a comfortable bed, and a simple tree with a few presents to celebrate the Spirit of Christmas. I am grateful to have learned giving is not about giving things, but giving ourselves. The only gifts we really remember are those with sentimental value. They are often inexpensive trinkets given by our children or an aunt who simply wants to be remembered on Christmas morning.

When I see posts asking if we are willing to be politically incorrect and Wish everyone a Merry Christmas I hit the like button. Yet a part of me wonders if it matters. If celebrating Christmas is just about the decorations, parties and presents, then does it really matter what we call it? If you prefer Christmas I can only hope it is because you choose to celebrate the love, laughter, peace and joy as Christmas was celebrated in years past. For me, any holiday can be happy, or any day for that matter, but Christmas is a symbol of choosing peace on earth, a symbol of giving to others everyday, and receiving all the good, all the love, all the peace that this day was meant to remind us of.

As we try manically to survive this season, I hope you will take time every day to remember this season is not about how hard you have to work to buy the gifts, nor how many crazy stores you have to visit to find the perfect gift. This season is about stopping, reaching out, loving others and creating family time and community. This season is about sharing the many blessings you have with others who have not, with an intention they will prosper in the coming year as you have prospered.

So Merry Christmas or Happy Holidays - whichever you prefer. I hope this season and the coming year will be all you could wish for. May the magic of the season find you warm, prosperous and healthy, but most of all loved.

Accepting Hardships as a Pathway to Peace

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
        
Living one day at a time;
Enjoying one moment at a time;
Accepting hardships as the pathway to peace;
Taking, as He did, this sinful world
as it is, not as I would have it;
Trusting that He will make all things right
if I surrender to His Will;
That I may be reasonably happy in this life
and supremely happy with Him
Forever in the next.
Amen.

--Reinhold Niebuhr

This prayer has seen me through many times of turmoil and hurt. It became my motto, my go to prayer, the year my father passed away. 37 years ago I experienced that first adult realization that we do not have full control of our lives. Even today, the wisdom to know the difference often eludes me. Yet there are also times when the fact cannot be argued. Then I turn to this age old prayer.

There are times when it takes courage to hold fast in acceptance of what is when we cannot change circumstances, but if we can have courage, serenity will be the gift that follows. We can not always know the reasons for the events of our lives. It is hard to understand why angst and loss must be forever on the horizon. Yet without tears of sadness we would not know tears of joy, without sorrow we could not know bliss. And yes, you have heard this said too many times. Now is the time to really hear the words.

Over the years I have come to understand we are all here for a purpose. Some for large, grandiose reasons, others for smaller, more significant reasons. We each have a special skill, a light, or perhaps a darkness to share so others may experience their lessons. Our co-existence is part of the greatest plan on earth. When we have done our part, we are once again allowed to go home.

There was a time I would cry out in anguish, "Why is this happening?" "How could You do this?" Today I read the prayer and believe, "Thy Will Be Done." Thank you for blessing my life with an opportunity to watch a young boy grow into a man. Thank you for blessing my life with his pranks and laughter. Thank you for letting his light shine in my life, if only for a short time. I learned and experienced so much in his presence and even as my heart breaks, a smile creases my lips as I remember his devilish grin and the twinkle in his eye. We could not control you in life, we certainly had no control over your death.

But I share the thought that in twenty years you did more for this world, than many of us who have lived 3 times as long. You gave fully to life, not the rules. You were real, not who others expected you to be. Your choices, helped me to see my own from a little different view point. You challenged me to be creative and open minded. You taught me unconditional love. Thank you.

Now you are teaching me how precious each day is, how quickly events can change what is into something totally different.

So today I ask "Please grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change and the courage to stay in a place of light and love."

With love to all who are missing and grieving for a young man who changed us in ways we never really understood until now. May you feel the blessing of his warm heart holding you in your sorrow.

Have You Given Yourself The Credit You Deserve?

I think perhaps I haven't given myself enough credit. Perhaps you are feeling that way too, or maybe you haven't had the ah ha moment yet. Therefore I am compelled to share this with you, hoping you will see within yourself the success you truly are.

I was reading a book I wrote several years ago, "Don't Change For Heaven's Sake", and found my moment of truth. Some found the book too personal, others were helped beyond explanation by reading it and applying it to their own life. We all have a story, but honestly, our story is the same, with different characters and drama. Our purpose is the same. We are all here to experience what is ours to walk through and come through it with love, gratitude and compassion. We are all here to learn peace, to know who and what we are.

I set out to revise the edition. Instead what I found is the relevance of what is written. We have become so success and material conscious, we have forgotten the basics of living a good life. Social Media has created a bigger audience for our stories about others (gossip). There is so much more advertising available to tell us we are not good enough unless we own more cars than we can drive or a bigger house than we can maintain. Success has become about money in the bank, no matter who is left hungry in the process. We beat ourselves up daily as we compare what we have with others. We are so busy putting out positive messages to the world, we don't take time to process anger, guilt and shame, or take time to forgive. And in our search for self-acceptance we are met by Law of Attraction Gurus who reinforce the idea of having more is being more. What happened to the basic laws of respect, acceptance and loving others?

As I reviewed "Don't Change..." I realized how blessed I am. I  felt the strength it took to work through relationship and health problems, to clear my anger, shame and guilt. I felt blessed not to have succumbed to the feelings of lack, which were true for a long time. I saw the success with which I had used the tools for clean living, as I continued to create a life I was proud to be living. There are too many who give up. I reach out to you today. There are those who continue to live in an illusion, believing that their houses and cars make up for their lack of love, as they continue to berate others for their seeming lack. I send my compassion out to you, knowing the loneliness of things. I am grateful for faith in a Higher Power providing all that I need.

Louise Hay was my greatest mentor, teaching me to love myself, so I could love others; teaching me to accept others for who they are, rather than judge or use them as a marker for who I am. I learned along the way, I cannot control everything. Sometimes surrender is all that solves the situation.

And as I reviewed the book, I saw how constant criticism of ourselves undermines our opportunities for happiness and peace. As we go through each day, we will make mistakes, we will have times when we could have given more or done better. Yet, in each moment if we are doing the best we can, that is enough. Mistakes can be fixed and moments of over achieving will make up for the shortcuts taken. In the end all that really matters is, "Are you happy?" If you aren't what can you do to be happy, not because of what is happening on the outside, but because deep inside you feel your own love - self love and love of life.

Just for today - Approve of yourself - no matter what.

 

Know "You Are A Success Because You Exist"

 

 

I am reminded life is not about change. It is about letting go - letting go of judgements, vengeance, hurt, remorse. It is about letting go of everything that does not support joy. When you stop comparing yourself to others you will no longer have a reason to criticize yourself. When you stop criticizing yourself, you will no longer have a reason to criticize others.

 

Know now, you are "perfect, whole and complete", in the words of Louise Hay. Feel the blessing of those words. Review your life and see what you have accomplished. You are worthy. You are strong. You are beautiful.

 

Blessings

Julie Melville

 



Forgive and Find Joy

Why do we assume there is something wrong? We need to blame either ourselves or someone else for situations and events. We take a defensive stance when confronted with another's misunderstanding of what is happening. Often we shift the blame to the one who is confused, angry or upset. Why?

Somewhere we have been taught anything that does not make others happy is our fault. We are not good enough. We are somehow broken. Our ideas cannot be good enough or everyone would just simply agree. When our judgement is questioned it triggers the response of defending our worthiness. We find ourselves lashing out or withdrawing into silence. We seldom open to discussion on these alternate opinions or ideas, afraid we may see a different point of view, thus making our point wrong. But is there a wrong or right opinion to anything that happens in life? Is life not just a perception?

One of the biggest reasons I have found for this push and pull between us, is the need to feel we are in control. Our subconscious has been programed to believe others are either better than us or beneath us. Therefore we need to defend our position on the ladder of life. But is there anyone who is better or beneath anyone? Is there a need to defend our position, if we are all equal? Is it not acceptable to understand another's point of view without feeling there is something wrong with us?

As is my usual Easter custom, I sit in meditation and consider forgiveness. Forgiveness of self and others. More and more I find myself asking, "What is there to forgive?" This ritual shows me how I am taking life too personally. We are here to experience. Those who push our "Hot Buttons" or illicit hurt or anger, can be appreciated rather than defamed for they are showing me where I still have the belief, "I am not good, worthy,  smart or important enough. Those beliefs have nothing to do with anyone else but me. I need in times of feeling a need to forgive someone else, to realize I created this experience to teach me more about who I think I am.

So then, what is left to forgive? I have long since forgiven the bullies, abusers, and naysayers in my life. I have even found a place of gratitude for the strength they have given me. Do I need to forgive those who disagree with my perception of life and what should be? No, they are entitled to their opinion. I can be grateful for the different aspect they have on a particular idea, for it broadens my mind.

Forgiveness of self is all that is left. Forgiveness for those times when I have responded without opening my mind and heart to what another feels in a situation. Forgiveness for self for those times I have made an assumption without hearing the whole story. Forgiveness of self for thinking I am not worthy of all that is good in life. Forgiveness for desiring control when control is not appropriate or necessary. Forgiveness for some and any belief that allows another to push those old buttons of the past, when the past is gone. Forgiveness for thinking I should be able to control the future when there is a greater power within me who will guide me if I just drop the pretense that my ego is all there is to guide me. Forgiveness of self for looking either up the ladder or down, when in truth I know we are all equal, all one, with a unique set of qualities and ideas that make the experience of life, rich and textured.

As I conclude my meditation for this year it comes to me that most misunderstandings are based on assumption, creating a story without allowing ourselves to hear the truth from others. We are so afraid of the truth that we shut out those who we presume have wronged us and create a story that gives basis to our right to be angry, hurt, and disgruntled. If we could instead create a story that says I am enough, they are enough and together we create a beautiful world, the need for this Easter custom could end.

Is it not enough that one man died on the cross, must we carry that hurt, burden and sacrifice as well? To do so negates that which we were taught in Sunday School, that Jesus died on the cross to forgive the sins of man eternally. Can we not remember this and forgive without pain and suffering?

For in forgiveness we find the joy we are seeking.