Secondary Title - God May Love the Sparrow - But he also loves it's predator
BIRDS FIGHT OVER ROAD KILL, DEER AND ANTELOPE RUN IN FEAR AT THE SOUND OF GUNSHOT, PLANTS SHRIVEL UP WITH LACK OF MOISTURE, AND DETERIORATE UNDER THE EFFECTS OF TOO MUCH RAIN. SNAKES LASH OUT WITH A VENOMOUS BITE AND BEARS ATTACK WHEN THEY OR THEIR SPACE IS THREATENED. SPIDERS WILL CURL UP IN A DEATH LIKE POSITION AS SHADOW OR LIGHT FALL OVER THEM.
It seems contradictory to me that our teachers will tell us that birds, insects and plants thrive in the love of their creator. Do they really feel completely in trust that they will be provided for? Do they give the impression that there is plenty for all? I think not.
In fact, if you spend the day in nature, you will find many defense mechanisms in place, you will notice adaptations of plants and animals trying to survive in less than perfect surroundings, you will be astounded by acts of territorialism. Study the behaviors of our animal friends. Many species battle until death to be the leader of their pack, and between species to control the lush green feeding areas. There does not appear to be guilt when killing to survive is a requirement.
Fox and coyote are well known for their trickster attitude, guiling their prey into peril. I wonder what they would do to the dove who tried to sit with them and explain that love is more important than the lunch they are plotting to have? What about the bear who stalks his prey to learn their patterns, in preparation for the kill? Isn't this premeditated murder? I wonder how our creator really feels about that?
Do you really believe the fresh new plants of spring just sigh and forgive when a blast of snow and frost freeze their newly forming blossoms? I know we do not see them kicking and screaming, nor can we read a post on facebook, expressing their disappointment, but do you really think they are expressing gratitude to their creator for this "lesson in life"?
Have you ever sat and watched as a Raven catches the wind and appears to soar as a hawk or an eagle? What happens then, if he swoops down to grab a mouse from the field? Could Raven survive as an eagle or a hawk? We are constantly told by mentors and potential teachers that we can be anything and do anything we choose.... How can that be? If I do not have the talons and beak of an eagle, how can I live as an eagle? Without roots and branches, could I exist as a tree? There are many days I'd rather be my pet, but then again do I want to drink from a seldom washed plastic bowl on the floor?
Okay, I hear the voice of friends telling me to be realistic. I guess that is the point of the this writing - to get back to what is realistic. Within the realm of realism, there is a part of me that believes we can be and do anything. I am a believer that love is more important than dinner. I am often caught by fox and coyote, tricking me into buying another self-help program that will allow me to live the life of my dreams. Too often that has left me open to that blast of frost, killing my passion, my dreams and my finances. I wish I could be an eagle, in order to see the greater picture, but I accept the blessing of being able to watch the eagle soar above me..... Though I believe in the power of peace, I now have a better perception of the fight for survival and the need to be agressive from time to time, in order to preserve my identity and soul.
Several times a week I receive emails asking me to save animals or birds from extinction. I ask why there isn't more compassion for our own kind. We see our friends, neighbors and strangers losing their homes and jobs. We criticize them for not being prepared, not being financially savvy, and look down on them for their past mistakes. They are awarded poor credit ratings, and find it almost impossible to rebuild. The corporations who helped put them in this situation proudly sponsor a "Save the...." campaign, while sitting in judgement of a fellow human who is facing the loss of his habitat. Hmmmmm ..... Strange don't you think that we are willing to save a forest, the whales, seals and other wild life, but we have little time or finances to help our fellow man? Does survival of the fittest belong only to the human species?
I am glad that I was pushed to be more aware of nature - to study the birds, beasts and flora. Now I see that there should not be judgement of anger, fear, and survival mechanisms for they are as natural as the rising and setting of the sun. I may never condone the murder of another human, but there is less guilt when I trap a mouse who is invading my space, or kill the spider who refuses to stay in the garden killing bugs. It strikes me as how important it is for us to allow our lives to flow, rather than to force - for in doing so we too often try to become that which we were never meant to be. I can accept that I am human, and that there are limits to what I can do and be. So now I wonder, "Am I a bookkeeper, pretending to be a healer, or a healer, pretending to be a bookkeeper or am I both?" Is this my balance - to see what is real, and believe in what I cannot see?
Can I believe that there is more than enough for all of us - that lack only exists in our minds? Once you have convinced the whales, seals, and polar bears, and rain forests, ask me again. Better yet, convince our governments that we are all created equal and deserve similar quality of life......
For now this is enough for me: God sees the little sparrow fall, it meets his tender view. If God so loves the little birds, I know he loves me too...........
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Monday, February 1, 2010
Feeling Your Way
It seems the more we analyze and review our lives the more questions we have about what is truth. I will be honest, I have found myself in doubt about my beliefs quite frequently in the last few weeks.
With so many versions of God, Spirituality, Manifestation, Healing, and just plain simple living, how do we know what is true and what is false perception? As a writer I ask myself - Am I leading you on the right path or further away from joy, peace, health and love?
It seems the more inner work we do, the rougher the waters become. Some call this "meeting the opposites"... It is said that if we acknowledge the opposition it will disappear, bringing the sun into our lives again. How long must we stay in the fog, chilled to the bone, before we see this sun again?
In fact, lately I wonder if it is true, that love, joy and health are a birthright. Obviously these are brought to us, when we send out loving, joyful vibrations, but does everyone have access to this gift? Are positive expectations, and belief in the generosity and love of our creator enough to open the channels to a better life? For so many this seems not to be true? So how can this be explained?
Have you ever taken a look at your life, and asked yourself if you are living in denial, or self-deception?
Have you read the Universal Laws and felt that you have followed them, to no avail in transforming your life? As I reviewed the book "Working With the Law" by Raymond Holliwell, the other day - I found myself saying, "This is the way I live, so where are the promises that come with that lifestyle?"
What has caused me to fall off the path, or is this just where I am supposed to be in my life? If so, why? There seems to be no answer, as if my angels have left me to go off on some holiday.
I know there are many others who feel they too have been deserted. What can I offer to bring comfort? Does what I offer make a difference?
All I know is that we are here, for good or bad, for a short time or what seems like forever. How we came to be created will remain a mystery until we return to that place of creation. It is our choice to be happy, or sad, loving or angry, afraid or courageous. We cannot let our circumstances be the focus in life. Our focus must remain within, finding the strength to make each day count for something.
If we can feel our way through the fog, the sun will shine through at some point. If we can feel our way through the fear, and cope with unknown territory, there is joy in each moment. Find your own way. Each of is unique. Look not to another for the answers, for the answers are within you. Trust that they will be revealed.
With so many versions of God, Spirituality, Manifestation, Healing, and just plain simple living, how do we know what is true and what is false perception? As a writer I ask myself - Am I leading you on the right path or further away from joy, peace, health and love?
It seems the more inner work we do, the rougher the waters become. Some call this "meeting the opposites"... It is said that if we acknowledge the opposition it will disappear, bringing the sun into our lives again. How long must we stay in the fog, chilled to the bone, before we see this sun again?
In fact, lately I wonder if it is true, that love, joy and health are a birthright. Obviously these are brought to us, when we send out loving, joyful vibrations, but does everyone have access to this gift? Are positive expectations, and belief in the generosity and love of our creator enough to open the channels to a better life? For so many this seems not to be true? So how can this be explained?
Have you ever taken a look at your life, and asked yourself if you are living in denial, or self-deception?
Have you read the Universal Laws and felt that you have followed them, to no avail in transforming your life? As I reviewed the book "Working With the Law" by Raymond Holliwell, the other day - I found myself saying, "This is the way I live, so where are the promises that come with that lifestyle?"
What has caused me to fall off the path, or is this just where I am supposed to be in my life? If so, why? There seems to be no answer, as if my angels have left me to go off on some holiday.
I know there are many others who feel they too have been deserted. What can I offer to bring comfort? Does what I offer make a difference?
All I know is that we are here, for good or bad, for a short time or what seems like forever. How we came to be created will remain a mystery until we return to that place of creation. It is our choice to be happy, or sad, loving or angry, afraid or courageous. We cannot let our circumstances be the focus in life. Our focus must remain within, finding the strength to make each day count for something.
If we can feel our way through the fog, the sun will shine through at some point. If we can feel our way through the fear, and cope with unknown territory, there is joy in each moment. Find your own way. Each of is unique. Look not to another for the answers, for the answers are within you. Trust that they will be revealed.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
What Are Your Plans for 2010
This is a repost from December 2007. Goal setting, planning and intention for success are all part of an ongoing process, that keeps our dreams alive. May 2010 be your best year ever.
Have you made your plans for the coming year? Set your goal? Now is the time.
Each year at this time I consider those ideas, and plans that I have not accomplished in the current year. I ask “Are they still valid? Do they belong on this years dream board? Why have I not moved towards completion of the undone projects? (Fear, disinterest, procrastination??) Do I need to rework the idea, or perhaps meditate on the faith I am putting into the project?”
As I mentioned in previous posts it is important at this time of year, especially, to begin clearing clutter from your physical space, as well as your mental and emotional space. Well now is also the time to clear the clutter on your to do lists, your goal cards, and dream boards. Take the goals, dreams and wishes that are no longer valid (carefully consider what you are ready to let go) and erase them from the picture. That leaves room to really focus on the ideas that are important to you.
If you have never set goals on paper or created visual aids to track your progress and give your mind some visual stimulation, today is the day to begin. Goals left only in the thought process are merely dreams.
Goal setting is not a 10 minute process, like a New Year’s Resolution. Really choosing how you want to create your life takes time, thought and feeling. Before you write down “I want” or I will” take some time to consider how you want to feel, how your desires will benefit others, why you want to accomplish certain things. Are these accompishments true desires or are they “I know I shoulds”? Shoulds seldom work out very well. In order to create the life you choose to live, the goals must come from your heart, not your head.
Here is a suggestion for those who have never formally put a goal and action plan in place:
Begin by finding quiet space where you will not be disturbed for an hour or so. Grab a pen and paper. Take a few moments to quiet your mind, then allow your thoughts to tune into what you want from life (notice I did not say what I want in life), and what you want to give to life.
Begin to write out the thoughts and ideas as they come. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling or any other writing skills at this time - just write what is pouring out of your thoughts and your heart - feelings, things, work, family, relationships, health.
How do you want to be feeling? Is there a health issue you want to improve? Are there actions you want to take? Do you have a special talent you are ready to share with the world or want to prepare to share? Want material possessions would you like to have? How much money would you like to earn? Is it time to focus on family and friends - to have better relationships? Are you thinking of taking a fabulous vacation?
Write, Write, Write. When you have exhausted the supply of ideas, take the paper and tuck it away for 24 hours.
The following day, find that same quiet place, bring a fresh sheet of paper, and perhaps a nice cup of tea. I like to have at least 3 marker colors or crayons on hand. Get really comfortable and read your previous days wish list. As you read through highlight or circle those that really stand out. I circle the ones that create passion within me in red, the ones that give a feeling of abundance in green, and those that I think “why did I write that?” in blue. There may me things on the list that leave you feeling indifferent. Those I leave alone. They are probably not worth considering further. But keep this paper - there is a reason you wrote them down and you may want to come back to it in the future.
Begin a list of the those circled in red, then a list of the green, then blue. Split the page down the middle so the ideas are on the left and you have room to comment on the right.
Take another look at the list and if anything stands out for you on the lists make a note. You may have ideas to start formulating a plan, questions about why you would deserve this is your life, feelings of fear that you cannot accomplish a certain idea, how this idea will benefit others, someone who can help with your project…. Make these notes in the left column. Then put the list away for at least another 24 hours.
Come back to your list (allow at least another hour) Take another look at it, and consider time frames for accomplishment - are these short term goals, or long term goals? Do some of the ideas fit together to create a bigger picture. Take the feeling items and place them with the accomplishment items. Do some of your travel plans work in with work goals?
Beside each item place an S beside the short term goals (things you want or want to accomplish within a few weeks or a couple of months) and M beside those that you would like to see come about within the next 6 - 8 months and an L beside those you want to see within 9 months to 2 years. At this point don’t put specific dates, you are still in the thought process - brainstorming with yourself.
When doubts arise or thoughts of what others will think, stop yourself and set the number one goal “I am now ready to live a life that is satisfying and joyous, for the highest good of all, and I am grateful for the manifestation of my desires” As long as your goals do not beat another down, or hurt anyone else, don’t worry about how selfish someone might think you are, or how impossible others might see your dreams. This is your plan - not theirs. You may choose to only speak of these goals with supportive, like minded people. (In fact I recommend it)
If you have been lucky enough to plan to spend an entire day working with your goals, then carry on at this point. For those who can only spend an hour or so, put your paper away for now and come back to it tommorow. Don’t leave it longer than that or you will just let it go. Commit to creating your story, writing your life plan for the coming year(s)
Now is the time to take the short term goals - create dates for completion or fruition, make action notes and statements for projects and write affirmations that support each of these goals. Affirmations show the gratitude for having that goal manifested in your life now. They are stated in present terms. Example: I am so happy and grateful now that I am living in a beautiful and appropriate home, that suits my lifestyle and family.”
Continue to do the same for each of your midterm and long term goals.
Once this is complete, begin your wish board (dream board/vision board). Look through magazines, online, newspapers, etc. to find pictures, phrases, articles, travel plans, house plans, vehicles……… - anything that is on your list and paste them onto the board. Place the board where you can see it on a daily basis. This part is important. In the past I used to hide my wish board so that others wouldn’t see it. Alas, it did nothing to further my success. I realize that I was hiding my dreams, embarrassed at what others might think of me. The Universe cannot easily give you things when you don’t feel worthy to receive.
I could continue and write a book on this subject and there are good books available. So to shorten things up from this point read and affirm your goals daily. Make notes as ideas come up that will help you take action or put you in the right place to receive, give your doubts to the Universe and keep your eye on the present moment (not on the end result) and most of all be grateful for all that is coming into your life and all that is in your life right now.
I do take this one step further and write a story about my life for the coming year. It begins “At this time ………….” and ends with ” and we all live happily everafter, with new ideas, love, peace and joy.” If you like to write, try it. It’s interesting to read as you begin to clear and create next year.
One last note - goal setting does not have to wait until December or happen only once a year. Once you begin the process, you will find yourself updating and adding to your list on a regular basis and that is the way it works best.
Best Wishes and Blessings on your Journey.
Julie
Have you made your plans for the coming year? Set your goal? Now is the time.
Each year at this time I consider those ideas, and plans that I have not accomplished in the current year. I ask “Are they still valid? Do they belong on this years dream board? Why have I not moved towards completion of the undone projects? (Fear, disinterest, procrastination??) Do I need to rework the idea, or perhaps meditate on the faith I am putting into the project?”
As I mentioned in previous posts it is important at this time of year, especially, to begin clearing clutter from your physical space, as well as your mental and emotional space. Well now is also the time to clear the clutter on your to do lists, your goal cards, and dream boards. Take the goals, dreams and wishes that are no longer valid (carefully consider what you are ready to let go) and erase them from the picture. That leaves room to really focus on the ideas that are important to you.
If you have never set goals on paper or created visual aids to track your progress and give your mind some visual stimulation, today is the day to begin. Goals left only in the thought process are merely dreams.
Goal setting is not a 10 minute process, like a New Year’s Resolution. Really choosing how you want to create your life takes time, thought and feeling. Before you write down “I want” or I will” take some time to consider how you want to feel, how your desires will benefit others, why you want to accomplish certain things. Are these accompishments true desires or are they “I know I shoulds”? Shoulds seldom work out very well. In order to create the life you choose to live, the goals must come from your heart, not your head.
Here is a suggestion for those who have never formally put a goal and action plan in place:
Begin by finding quiet space where you will not be disturbed for an hour or so. Grab a pen and paper. Take a few moments to quiet your mind, then allow your thoughts to tune into what you want from life (notice I did not say what I want in life), and what you want to give to life.
Begin to write out the thoughts and ideas as they come. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling or any other writing skills at this time - just write what is pouring out of your thoughts and your heart - feelings, things, work, family, relationships, health.
How do you want to be feeling? Is there a health issue you want to improve? Are there actions you want to take? Do you have a special talent you are ready to share with the world or want to prepare to share? Want material possessions would you like to have? How much money would you like to earn? Is it time to focus on family and friends - to have better relationships? Are you thinking of taking a fabulous vacation?
Write, Write, Write. When you have exhausted the supply of ideas, take the paper and tuck it away for 24 hours.
The following day, find that same quiet place, bring a fresh sheet of paper, and perhaps a nice cup of tea. I like to have at least 3 marker colors or crayons on hand. Get really comfortable and read your previous days wish list. As you read through highlight or circle those that really stand out. I circle the ones that create passion within me in red, the ones that give a feeling of abundance in green, and those that I think “why did I write that?” in blue. There may me things on the list that leave you feeling indifferent. Those I leave alone. They are probably not worth considering further. But keep this paper - there is a reason you wrote them down and you may want to come back to it in the future.
Begin a list of the those circled in red, then a list of the green, then blue. Split the page down the middle so the ideas are on the left and you have room to comment on the right.
Take another look at the list and if anything stands out for you on the lists make a note. You may have ideas to start formulating a plan, questions about why you would deserve this is your life, feelings of fear that you cannot accomplish a certain idea, how this idea will benefit others, someone who can help with your project…. Make these notes in the left column. Then put the list away for at least another 24 hours.
Come back to your list (allow at least another hour) Take another look at it, and consider time frames for accomplishment - are these short term goals, or long term goals? Do some of the ideas fit together to create a bigger picture. Take the feeling items and place them with the accomplishment items. Do some of your travel plans work in with work goals?
Beside each item place an S beside the short term goals (things you want or want to accomplish within a few weeks or a couple of months) and M beside those that you would like to see come about within the next 6 - 8 months and an L beside those you want to see within 9 months to 2 years. At this point don’t put specific dates, you are still in the thought process - brainstorming with yourself.
When doubts arise or thoughts of what others will think, stop yourself and set the number one goal “I am now ready to live a life that is satisfying and joyous, for the highest good of all, and I am grateful for the manifestation of my desires” As long as your goals do not beat another down, or hurt anyone else, don’t worry about how selfish someone might think you are, or how impossible others might see your dreams. This is your plan - not theirs. You may choose to only speak of these goals with supportive, like minded people. (In fact I recommend it)
If you have been lucky enough to plan to spend an entire day working with your goals, then carry on at this point. For those who can only spend an hour or so, put your paper away for now and come back to it tommorow. Don’t leave it longer than that or you will just let it go. Commit to creating your story, writing your life plan for the coming year(s)
Now is the time to take the short term goals - create dates for completion or fruition, make action notes and statements for projects and write affirmations that support each of these goals. Affirmations show the gratitude for having that goal manifested in your life now. They are stated in present terms. Example: I am so happy and grateful now that I am living in a beautiful and appropriate home, that suits my lifestyle and family.”
Continue to do the same for each of your midterm and long term goals.
Once this is complete, begin your wish board (dream board/vision board). Look through magazines, online, newspapers, etc. to find pictures, phrases, articles, travel plans, house plans, vehicles……… - anything that is on your list and paste them onto the board. Place the board where you can see it on a daily basis. This part is important. In the past I used to hide my wish board so that others wouldn’t see it. Alas, it did nothing to further my success. I realize that I was hiding my dreams, embarrassed at what others might think of me. The Universe cannot easily give you things when you don’t feel worthy to receive.
I could continue and write a book on this subject and there are good books available. So to shorten things up from this point read and affirm your goals daily. Make notes as ideas come up that will help you take action or put you in the right place to receive, give your doubts to the Universe and keep your eye on the present moment (not on the end result) and most of all be grateful for all that is coming into your life and all that is in your life right now.
I do take this one step further and write a story about my life for the coming year. It begins “At this time ………….” and ends with ” and we all live happily everafter, with new ideas, love, peace and joy.” If you like to write, try it. It’s interesting to read as you begin to clear and create next year.
One last note - goal setting does not have to wait until December or happen only once a year. Once you begin the process, you will find yourself updating and adding to your list on a regular basis and that is the way it works best.
Best Wishes and Blessings on your Journey.
Julie
Friday, December 25, 2009
Memories
Christmas season is always a time of memories. For some the memories are filled with warmth and joy, for others sadness and pain. I wonder each year, if my memories are clouded by my perception; a dream rather than reality. Does it matter?
This year I find myself missing my childhood Christmases. I long to read Twas the Night Before Christmas to my parents and siblings, as we sit around the tree, trying to guess what might be in the packages and wondering if we will hear Santa coming down the chimney this year.
There was never a question about the reality of Santa - we knew his love and generosity existed around the world, in every country and community. It was not about the presents he brought, it was about the feeling of joy, excitement, love, giving and receiving. It seemed that the season provided enough fuel to power those feelings through out the year.
Christmas day brought with it the aroma of roasting turkey and cranberries simmering on the stove. Mom had spent many weeks baking Christmas cakes, gingerbread, potato candy (exquisite homemade chocolates), pull taffy and sugar cookies. My sweet tooth was finally satisfied, as on this day, there was no reprimands for eating too much of my favorite foods.
I don't really remember the gifts, though socks, pajamas and perhaps a new outfit were always part of the tradition. There was a favorite doll ( a nurse named Elizabeth) a pair of skate warmers, and a manicure set my father had chosen for me.
How I miss those days. This year more than ever, I wish for a hug from my parents, to spend time around the tree, listening to Carols, and watching A Christmas Story in black and white. Though I am with my daughter, I realize that somehow I created a different Christmas Spirit with her, and though we still believe in Santa, and listen to Carols, materialism has snuck in where love used to be. She is now 20 and I wonder what kind of Christmas she will create for her children when they arrive.....
Celebrating the birth of Christ, has so much meaning for me. At the age of 13 there was nothing I wanted more than to see everyone around me be happy and peaceful. There seemed to be so much sadness in my life. As I walked along my usual route, one evening, listening to the frogs, enjoying the cool summer breeze, I felt the presence of Jesus walking with me, supporting me. I made a promise then, that if he would always walk with me, I would do everything in my power to spread love and joy out into the world.
There are times when lonliness creeps up on me, and I look around wondering where the support I think I need has gone, then I remember that night, the promise and the strength that was given to me.
So this year at Christmas I want to send love to the parents who gave me life. Thank you for your unconditional love, and the memories of Christmas, celebrating the birth of the Spirit that gives us all life.
May all of you be blessed with the Spirit of Christmas, not just for the season, but throughout the year.
This year I find myself missing my childhood Christmases. I long to read Twas the Night Before Christmas to my parents and siblings, as we sit around the tree, trying to guess what might be in the packages and wondering if we will hear Santa coming down the chimney this year.
There was never a question about the reality of Santa - we knew his love and generosity existed around the world, in every country and community. It was not about the presents he brought, it was about the feeling of joy, excitement, love, giving and receiving. It seemed that the season provided enough fuel to power those feelings through out the year.
Christmas day brought with it the aroma of roasting turkey and cranberries simmering on the stove. Mom had spent many weeks baking Christmas cakes, gingerbread, potato candy (exquisite homemade chocolates), pull taffy and sugar cookies. My sweet tooth was finally satisfied, as on this day, there was no reprimands for eating too much of my favorite foods.
I don't really remember the gifts, though socks, pajamas and perhaps a new outfit were always part of the tradition. There was a favorite doll ( a nurse named Elizabeth) a pair of skate warmers, and a manicure set my father had chosen for me.
How I miss those days. This year more than ever, I wish for a hug from my parents, to spend time around the tree, listening to Carols, and watching A Christmas Story in black and white. Though I am with my daughter, I realize that somehow I created a different Christmas Spirit with her, and though we still believe in Santa, and listen to Carols, materialism has snuck in where love used to be. She is now 20 and I wonder what kind of Christmas she will create for her children when they arrive.....
Celebrating the birth of Christ, has so much meaning for me. At the age of 13 there was nothing I wanted more than to see everyone around me be happy and peaceful. There seemed to be so much sadness in my life. As I walked along my usual route, one evening, listening to the frogs, enjoying the cool summer breeze, I felt the presence of Jesus walking with me, supporting me. I made a promise then, that if he would always walk with me, I would do everything in my power to spread love and joy out into the world.
There are times when lonliness creeps up on me, and I look around wondering where the support I think I need has gone, then I remember that night, the promise and the strength that was given to me.
So this year at Christmas I want to send love to the parents who gave me life. Thank you for your unconditional love, and the memories of Christmas, celebrating the birth of the Spirit that gives us all life.
May all of you be blessed with the Spirit of Christmas, not just for the season, but throughout the year.
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