Can you imagine being thirty-something, living in Seattle—where bicycling is a big part of the culture—not knowing how to ride a bike ...and wanting to? For one of my clients, I will call her Clarissa, that is just the case. And it's interesting the parallels I see between Clarissa and my two and a half year old grandson, Henry. Much like a child wanting to learn how to ride, Clarissa is filled with the same level of desire, but lacks the skills and confidence. And like Clarissa, Henry has experienced the frustration and fear of falling when trying something new. Henry's first crash resulted in not only a scraped up elbow and understanding of why he wears a helmet, but his refusal to try it again.
Isn't that the case with so many things we try? If we fall and get hurt, we tend to put that thing aside and go on to something more familiar, safer, and in our control. Problem with that though is that when we make the choice to always live in our comfort zone we can't learn new things or come to know our limitations. Imagine if people like Lance Armstrong decided not to get back on his bike after crashing. And think of the millions of people who have learned to ride a bicycle ....as if it's just part of growing up. Part of what helps in the case of learning to ride a bicycle is that we get to see so many other people doing it. Of course, if "she" can ride a bike, then so can I, we think. And it's true! We naturally have more confidence in a thing when we see others doing it. They didn't die trying it and actually look to be having a great time...hmm, you think, I gotta do that!
Then there are the more (seemingly) uncommon fears to overcome with not so many role models to follow. I'm talking about things like quitting a job, confronting a friend who betrayed you, or asking for a raise when you know you deserve it. But, if we apply the same courage it takes to get on a bike for the first time, we can achieve these things; in some cases, things we never knew were possible. Getting on a bike for the first time takes desire and an understanding of what's being asked of you (to pedal, steer, and brake) but more importantly, a lot of courage!
Taking my grandson to the skate park where there are lots of bicyclists helped him get interested again. He saw a four year old on his push bike (small bike with no pedals) going up and down the hilly dirt terrain designed for trail (mountain) bikes to do jumps and tricks. Henry was in awe, mesmerized by this person about the same size as him (Henry's a big boy) going where "big people" go, doing "big people" stuff. He saw courage in action. Henry soon asked my husband to go get "his" push bike...now. Just like the tricycle, his push bike is something he showed interest in, but then shied away from upon his initial feeling of being out of control. But now he had renewed motivation and was not so scared because others were doing OK at it.
Seeing others achieving the same goals we desire serves as great motivation, but it also begs the question, how did they do it? It's simple. They faced their fears and did it anyway.
Recently, after finally getting the courage to climb back on the tricycle, my grandson learned to pedal—all by himself! Within an hour, he wasn't just pedaling a few feet, stopping, checking it out; he was speeding down the sidewalk at a fast pace! His newfound freedom set him loose. With thoughts of only going forward, he was three houses away before we knew it.
Writing about this takes me back to a special memory of when I was a kid. My brothers and sisters and I woke up one day to find bicycles for each us leaned up in a row out front in our dirt yard. A mix of old bikes they were. Each one of various colors, shapes, and sizes. They had been recycled to build "new" bikes. We didn't know how they got there or who made them, but it was obvious these bikes were for us!
It has always been a mystery who the "bicycle man" was that gifted us with such generosity but we think of him often. Had it not been for the Bicycle Man, I wonder if I would be like my client—watching from the sidelines as others speed by—thinking how do I muster up the courage, face fears, and do it anyway?
I must have learned to ride a bike because I watched my older brothers and sisters doing it. No one ever gave me a lesson, per se; I just did what I saw others doing ....successfully. But, let's face it, learning to ride a bike as an adult is much harder than taking it on with the fearlessness and determination of a kid.
It won't be long before Clarissa learns to ride, though. Our next meeting is at a local park. And just like in life, she'll be learning skills on how to balance while accelerating, steering, braking, navigating obstacles, coasting with abandon, and doing it anyway. Who knows, maybe one day she'll let me teach her how to ride with no hands or do a wheelie. Hmmm, might need to get my brother Mel for that one ...he could ride for miles on his back wheel. No exaggeration. Thank you Bicycle Man.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Tuesdays in Fremont at the "Pujari Center"
Beginning next week, Tuesday, July 19th, I will be seeing clients at the newly expanded Pujari Center in the Fremont neighborhood of Seattle.
To kick things off, I am offering a 50% discount for all appointments on that day! Please email me at ruth@seattleenergymedicine.com or call 206.708.3277 to reserve your spot!
Dr. Astrid Pujari is an MD who practices Integrative Medicine and she's also an herbalist! I've known Dr. Pujari for many years and credit her for helping me on my own path to better health and wellbeing. She is expanding her integrative clinic to include a wide-range of healing modalities; such as, energy healing, yoga, massage, and acupuncture, to name a few.
I am so happy and honored to be a part of this talented and heart-centered group of healing practitioners and invite you to come meet them at our open house on Monday, August 8th. All are welcome!
The clinic will also offer a weekly meditation class every Wednesday from 5:00PM-6:00PM. To give people an opportunity to try a variety of meditation techniques, each week will feature a different teacher and different style of meditation. I will be teaching the first Wednesday of every month for this ongoing series using techniques as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda, which basically involves various breathing techniques (pranayama) and word formula (mantra).
The updated Pujari Center web site will launch very soon to provide more details, but for now you may learn more about Dr. Astrid Pujari at http://www.pujaricenter.com/
Hope to see you soon!
Blessings of love and joy to all!
To kick things off, I am offering a 50% discount for all appointments on that day! Please email me at ruth@seattleenergymedicine.com or call 206.708.3277 to reserve your spot!
Dr. Astrid Pujari is an MD who practices Integrative Medicine and she's also an herbalist! I've known Dr. Pujari for many years and credit her for helping me on my own path to better health and wellbeing. She is expanding her integrative clinic to include a wide-range of healing modalities; such as, energy healing, yoga, massage, and acupuncture, to name a few.
I am so happy and honored to be a part of this talented and heart-centered group of healing practitioners and invite you to come meet them at our open house on Monday, August 8th. All are welcome!
The clinic will also offer a weekly meditation class every Wednesday from 5:00PM-6:00PM. To give people an opportunity to try a variety of meditation techniques, each week will feature a different teacher and different style of meditation. I will be teaching the first Wednesday of every month for this ongoing series using techniques as taught by Paramhansa Yogananda, which basically involves various breathing techniques (pranayama) and word formula (mantra).
The updated Pujari Center web site will launch very soon to provide more details, but for now you may learn more about Dr. Astrid Pujari at http://www.pujaricenter.com/
Hope to see you soon!
Blessings of love and joy to all!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Getting Into the Slipstream of Cosmic Consciousness
On the path to better wellness and happiness we sometimes get tired of searching and just want someone else to tell us what to do. Sometimes it just feels like too much work to be happy! I've had several clients say to me, "But I'm just not interested in doing more "work"...I work all day and I want "this" (better health and happiness) to just be there." Well, that's understandable, and I have felt that way myself, but the fact is, no one can give us a magic potion or make "it" go away---each of us must take control and, yes, do some work. Taking control requires that we make at least some small effort, if we truly wish to improve our circumstances.
Let's say, you want to find that perfect mate, for example. You complain that you're lonely and you just can't find common ground with the people you meet. Most relationships you have all feel like a dead-end. You fall into a "what's the use" sort of attitude and become somewhat of a loner. Then you start feeling "left out" or "passed over" and perhaps take on the role of victim. Again, this is understandable, and I can tell you it happens to a lot people, so don't feel bad, just listen up here for a minute! The way out of this vicious cycle is twofold: 1) Stop complaining and 2) get yourself out there!
Getting out there is doing "the work" and the not complaining is simply an attitude adjustment. Imagine that all living things are connected and each living thing responds to every other living thing. Now, think about how your "poor ole me" attitude, sitting at home moping about will be received by the greater whole---the cosmic vibration---that you, and the rest of us, are connected to. Your every thought (also a living thing) and behavior will be received as "how you like it" to be and remain that way!
You see, the overall universal (cosmic) vibration considers us to have a high-level of intelligence and individual free will. Think of the universe (the energy around you and that which we are all connected to) as a responsive body of energy. This body of energy reads your thoughts as a request---because it respects your ability to think "how you wish it to be"---and responds in like. If you are feeling unworthy of the perfect mate, you will never find them. If you have thoughts of being the victim, you will continue being victimized.
On the other hand, if you do some work by seeking out groups of people you admire and hanging out with them, then you've changed your order, so to speak. The Universe now sees your order of "Oh, she wants to be with "this" type of energy" and begins to realign your surroundings to match that which you desire. It really is that simple.
The only thing you need to do is make yourself and your desires known. You make your desires known by getting into the slipstream of those you desire to be with. The momentum will soon kick in and take over. Your work is done!
Change your life by getting into the slipstream of cosmic consciousness and you will soon be in the slipstream of those you seek to be with. Once there, continue to think in terms of only those things and situations you desire. No need to think on the how, just see it as so. See the outcome as if it has already happened. If it has already happened, then you must know how it feels to experience it---get back into that feeling and really "work" to "feel" the experience. Engage all your senses: smell, it, see it, feel it, taste and hear it ...be "in" it ...now.
I have several tips on how to get into the slipstream of cosmic consciousness and the energy of the those you seek to be with, but offer one fail-safe idea here. Volunteer!
Volunteering is at the top of my list for meeting good-hearted people who have common interests with you. Volunteering also provides a way for you to "get out of your own way" which magically transforms a heavy, closed-off, heart to one of openness, love and kindness. Hmm, isn't that what you want in a mate? See how this works? Once you get into the energy of that which you desire, what you desire comes to you. It is the law of magnetism. Like attracts like.
If you're looking for some ideas on where to volunteer, just search online in your area. Or, feel free to send me an email to help get clarity on what might be a good fit for you!
Now, get to work!
In peace, love, and joy to all! ...because that's what I desire :o)
Let's say, you want to find that perfect mate, for example. You complain that you're lonely and you just can't find common ground with the people you meet. Most relationships you have all feel like a dead-end. You fall into a "what's the use" sort of attitude and become somewhat of a loner. Then you start feeling "left out" or "passed over" and perhaps take on the role of victim. Again, this is understandable, and I can tell you it happens to a lot people, so don't feel bad, just listen up here for a minute! The way out of this vicious cycle is twofold: 1) Stop complaining and 2) get yourself out there!
Getting out there is doing "the work" and the not complaining is simply an attitude adjustment. Imagine that all living things are connected and each living thing responds to every other living thing. Now, think about how your "poor ole me" attitude, sitting at home moping about will be received by the greater whole---the cosmic vibration---that you, and the rest of us, are connected to. Your every thought (also a living thing) and behavior will be received as "how you like it" to be and remain that way!
You see, the overall universal (cosmic) vibration considers us to have a high-level of intelligence and individual free will. Think of the universe (the energy around you and that which we are all connected to) as a responsive body of energy. This body of energy reads your thoughts as a request---because it respects your ability to think "how you wish it to be"---and responds in like. If you are feeling unworthy of the perfect mate, you will never find them. If you have thoughts of being the victim, you will continue being victimized.
On the other hand, if you do some work by seeking out groups of people you admire and hanging out with them, then you've changed your order, so to speak. The Universe now sees your order of "Oh, she wants to be with "this" type of energy" and begins to realign your surroundings to match that which you desire. It really is that simple.
The only thing you need to do is make yourself and your desires known. You make your desires known by getting into the slipstream of those you desire to be with. The momentum will soon kick in and take over. Your work is done!
Change your life by getting into the slipstream of cosmic consciousness and you will soon be in the slipstream of those you seek to be with. Once there, continue to think in terms of only those things and situations you desire. No need to think on the how, just see it as so. See the outcome as if it has already happened. If it has already happened, then you must know how it feels to experience it---get back into that feeling and really "work" to "feel" the experience. Engage all your senses: smell, it, see it, feel it, taste and hear it ...be "in" it ...now.
I have several tips on how to get into the slipstream of cosmic consciousness and the energy of the those you seek to be with, but offer one fail-safe idea here. Volunteer!
Volunteering is at the top of my list for meeting good-hearted people who have common interests with you. Volunteering also provides a way for you to "get out of your own way" which magically transforms a heavy, closed-off, heart to one of openness, love and kindness. Hmm, isn't that what you want in a mate? See how this works? Once you get into the energy of that which you desire, what you desire comes to you. It is the law of magnetism. Like attracts like.
If you're looking for some ideas on where to volunteer, just search online in your area. Or, feel free to send me an email to help get clarity on what might be a good fit for you!
Now, get to work!
In peace, love, and joy to all! ...because that's what I desire :o)
Friday, June 24, 2011
Poem From a Fellow Kriyaban
Over the past couple of years, I have become ever-more deeply committed to my meditation practice and have built a very strong spiritual community along the way. I have met many friends---old and new. How could you meet an "old" friend? Well, you know how when you meet someone and they just seem so familiar ...like you've known them before? It's like that.
Recently, one of my "old" (new) friends wrote me a poem and I just can't help but share it because of the depth of spirit I sense in his writing. This is a true example of writing from one's soul, from the heart. I feel so blessed to be the recipient of this lovely piece. Thank you, Bobby.
My dear sister, Ruthie.
As you fly into the skies of your new adventure, may you soar like a hang glider. Joyfully riding the thermals of grace and intuition, higher and higher into the skies of bliss.
I pray for your strength: To bring you through all you will face.
Your intuition: To guide you to what you came into this world to do.
Your creativity: To blossom and spread flowers of joy wherever you go. May you leave spiritual footprints along the path of everyone you meet.
Your spiritual electricity to shine a million suns.
Your spiritual steel to be forged into a mighty sword. May it break the bonds of those locked in darkness so that they may come into the light.
With love in God & Guru,
Bobby
Recently, one of my "old" (new) friends wrote me a poem and I just can't help but share it because of the depth of spirit I sense in his writing. This is a true example of writing from one's soul, from the heart. I feel so blessed to be the recipient of this lovely piece. Thank you, Bobby.
My dear sister, Ruthie.
As you fly into the skies of your new adventure, may you soar like a hang glider. Joyfully riding the thermals of grace and intuition, higher and higher into the skies of bliss.
I pray for your strength: To bring you through all you will face.
Your intuition: To guide you to what you came into this world to do.
Your creativity: To blossom and spread flowers of joy wherever you go. May you leave spiritual footprints along the path of everyone you meet.
Your spiritual electricity to shine a million suns.
Your spiritual steel to be forged into a mighty sword. May it break the bonds of those locked in darkness so that they may come into the light.
With love in God & Guru,
Bobby
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Chakra Clearing Chant
As we break out of spring and bounce into summer (albeit a slow arrival in Seattle!) it is good to do some spring cleaning! I don't know about you, but when my physical space gets a bit cluttered I personally feel cluttered and scattered as well. My overall sense of peace is compromised, my energy level is depleted, and I can't think clearly. So, just as I work to clear the clutter from my physical space, I also work to clear the energy centers in my body.
To help clear my energy I came up with a "Chakra Clearing Chant". Although I call it a "chant" it can be used as a simple affirmation, mantra, feeling, or something to focus on while meditating. The beauty I see in the chakras is their actual "aspects" because each aspect is so easily incorporated into daily life.
Below is the Chakra Clearing Chant. Give it a try by placing your attention at each location while saying the words, either aloud or mentally. I like to place my hands at each location as an extra aid for concentrating the energy and specific aspect of each particular chakra. Practicing this exercise while standing near a window or outside is even better because it puts you closer to the elements associated with each chakra.
And the more cluttered my space, the more beneficial this technique! I happen to have been doing it a lot lately :o).
Enjoy!
Chakra Clearing Chant
I am pure, I am free
Grounded like a tree!
(root chakra, #1)
I am pure, I am free
To express creatively!
(sacral chakra, #2)
I am pure, I am free
Accepting all of me!
(lumbar chakra, #3)
I am pure, I am free
Love embraces me!
(heart chakra, #4)
I am pure, I am free
Speaking joyfully!
(throat chakra, #5)
I am pure, I am free
With clarity I see!
(third eye/spiritual eye, #6)
I am pure, I am free
As I unite with Thee!
(crown chakra, #7)
Yes, I am pure, I am free ...I live authentically!
To help clear my energy I came up with a "Chakra Clearing Chant". Although I call it a "chant" it can be used as a simple affirmation, mantra, feeling, or something to focus on while meditating. The beauty I see in the chakras is their actual "aspects" because each aspect is so easily incorporated into daily life.
Below is the Chakra Clearing Chant. Give it a try by placing your attention at each location while saying the words, either aloud or mentally. I like to place my hands at each location as an extra aid for concentrating the energy and specific aspect of each particular chakra. Practicing this exercise while standing near a window or outside is even better because it puts you closer to the elements associated with each chakra.
And the more cluttered my space, the more beneficial this technique! I happen to have been doing it a lot lately :o).
Enjoy!
Chakra Clearing Chant
I am pure, I am free
Grounded like a tree!
(root chakra, #1)
I am pure, I am free
To express creatively!
(sacral chakra, #2)
I am pure, I am free
Accepting all of me!
(lumbar chakra, #3)
I am pure, I am free
Love embraces me!
(heart chakra, #4)
I am pure, I am free
Speaking joyfully!
(throat chakra, #5)
I am pure, I am free
With clarity I see!
(third eye/spiritual eye, #6)
I am pure, I am free
As I unite with Thee!
(crown chakra, #7)
Yes, I am pure, I am free ...I live authentically!
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Full-Circle Awareness
As we get busy with life and daily responsibilities we lose sight of the "here and now"—the moments, you might say. And before you know it, those little moments add up to hours, days, weeks, and years. All of a sudden, you stop and ask yourself, "where in the world has all the time gone?" "Wasn't it just summer before last that we went on that road trip to see your sister" you might ask your partner. When they reply, "No silly, her kids were in junior-high then; they're nearly finished with college!" Whoa, close to ten years, just like that—gone! Or so it seems. How did you lose so many gazillions of moments—there's so many! Where did they go?
Sometimes we become aware of the present moment just by realizing how quickly so many moments have flown by. And sometimes life itself snaps us into the present moment through major events—happy ones and sad ones—like weddings and having babies or illnesses or life-altering accidents. My car accident a few years ago, for example, made me hyperaware of the moments I was losing by staying in a job that I no longer enjoyed. My work used to be fulfilling but somewhere along the way things changed and it was no longer rewarding. Not only did my job not fulfill me, it was draining me, depleting my energy, and I was even getting sick. I was not managing the stress very well and it was killing me. Then the accident nearly did just that. In retrospect, the car accident was a God-send. I am not only alive, but I'm very healthy, and doing work I love!
The accident literally stopped me in my tracks. And it's where I learned the true meaning of present-moment awareness. I became fully aware of each moment—leaving an indelible imprint in my mind of the whole accident as it unfolded. It's true what they say about things like that happening in "slow motion". But a few moments after everything came to a halt, facing southbound from the northbound lanes, in the middle of 4-lane freeway, I sat in the stillness staring at stunned faces of drivers staring back at me. White knuckling their steering wheels, unblinking, in shock over what almost just happened to them, they sat unmoving, fixed in time. It's like I was on stage and they were my audience; mesmerized by my performance. Perhaps in shock that I was staring back, alive and no one was dead. Were they about to applaud? It was the weirdest feeling being stared at like that, in that place. But then, I came to ...realizing I'd just escaped death. Tears came as the weight of it all set in. I'd been spared. I'm not sure what it meant for the guy who hit me, but it was a wake-up call for me. It caused me to pause and reevaluate my life; it snapped me into reality. Thanking my guardian angels, I felt divine love deep in my heart. I'd just experienced a miracle.
As I lay strapped to a back board in the ambulance on the way to Seattle's trauma center, my surroundings became crystal clear. The specks of gray in the EMT's blue eyes, the sound of the pavement beneath the tires, the churning axles, the squeaky chassis just a few feet below my head, the siren of the ambulance, the bumps in the road as we climbed the hill to the ER. The medic checked my vitals and talked with me as I witnessed the calming presence within my heart. Clarity came from deep within as I had the awareness that I would finally need to come into my own—my purpose—if I intended to stick around. I needed to start living my life in accordance with my soul, my Truth. This accident needed to happen. I silently kept thanking God; not for protecting me, but for correcting my course in life.
It's what I was "not" aware of that showed me the accident was no mere accident. It was life correcting itself, correcting me, getting me back in alignment. I was not fully aware of, or accepting the potential consequences of, the fact that "not living" my life—with joy and purpose—was killing me. I knew something was off, but I just kept putting off doing something about it ....one more day, you know.
Paradoxically, nearly losing my life brought me into the present moment where I got a good look at how I was living my life. What I was not aware of—that I was not living in accordance with my soul's purpose—brought me into full awareness that I must get reacquainted with my soul and make some changes. Full-Circle Awareness.
To come "full circle" means to arrive back where you started; that would be my Truth, or Soul, in this case. Full circle awareness begins when you become aware that a circumstance (living in opposition to my Truth) causes a consequence (my accident) and then using the results of the consequence (being jolted into and accepting reality, then taking responsibility) to gain insight—awareness—for how to improve the original circumstance (how I was living, or not living, my life).
I needed that accident to bring me full circle, back to where I started—back in touch with my Soul—because I was choosing to ignore the more subtle signs; illnesses, unhappiness, and general apathy. The trauma forced me to become fully awake—aware—and ready to accept that I'd lost touch with my true essence and needed to figure out how to find my way back home.
It isn't necessary to go through a major event like a car accident to become present. But if we go through life without at least some moment-to-moment awareness—and take personal responsibility, ownership, for the changes needed—these major events will likely do the job for us. Bringing us into the present moment, here, now and fast! It's like Mother Nature correcting the ecosystem of the forest; it's needed for long-term sustainability—and it's inevitable.
To go through life with the blinders on at warp speed, like I was doing, is unnatural. The flowers are there for us to admire, smell, and sometimes pick for our tables. We are meant to smell the freshness of new rain, get caught in it on occasion where we are invited to dance and splash in a puddle or two. We are to daydream as we watch the clouds float by with the changing winds and imagine what it must be like to soar like a bird. When did you last look up at the sky? For me, it had been a while until that day I was strapped to a trauma board.
Try this. Stop, Look, and Listen. What is it that you are doing right now? How does whatever it is that you are doing feel, smell, sound, taste, or look like? Are you inhaling your lunch or have you stopped to enjoy the flavors. Have you considered how that food made it onto your plate? I don't mean you! Who grew, harvested, and shipped the vegetables to the place where you got your food?
The act of awareness is paying attention to your surroundings, listening to your heart, and also accepting what is. I often say, "it is what it is"—meaning, reality. Accepting that "it is what it is" can be hard sometimes and requires deep honesty and personal responsibility. Explore what's painful or doesn't ring true within the "what is" (reality) and work to make it right. Upon examining your "what is" you will become at least a little more aware of it—giving you something to work with. See if you can find a "full-circle awareness" opportunity in your life. One that's happened, to learn from; or one that may be looming, to work with. This Awareness, and acceptance of reality, helps you gain clarity on what next step to take for coming Full Circle, back to your Truth.
Sometimes we become aware of the present moment just by realizing how quickly so many moments have flown by. And sometimes life itself snaps us into the present moment through major events—happy ones and sad ones—like weddings and having babies or illnesses or life-altering accidents. My car accident a few years ago, for example, made me hyperaware of the moments I was losing by staying in a job that I no longer enjoyed. My work used to be fulfilling but somewhere along the way things changed and it was no longer rewarding. Not only did my job not fulfill me, it was draining me, depleting my energy, and I was even getting sick. I was not managing the stress very well and it was killing me. Then the accident nearly did just that. In retrospect, the car accident was a God-send. I am not only alive, but I'm very healthy, and doing work I love!
The accident literally stopped me in my tracks. And it's where I learned the true meaning of present-moment awareness. I became fully aware of each moment—leaving an indelible imprint in my mind of the whole accident as it unfolded. It's true what they say about things like that happening in "slow motion". But a few moments after everything came to a halt, facing southbound from the northbound lanes, in the middle of 4-lane freeway, I sat in the stillness staring at stunned faces of drivers staring back at me. White knuckling their steering wheels, unblinking, in shock over what almost just happened to them, they sat unmoving, fixed in time. It's like I was on stage and they were my audience; mesmerized by my performance. Perhaps in shock that I was staring back, alive and no one was dead. Were they about to applaud? It was the weirdest feeling being stared at like that, in that place. But then, I came to ...realizing I'd just escaped death. Tears came as the weight of it all set in. I'd been spared. I'm not sure what it meant for the guy who hit me, but it was a wake-up call for me. It caused me to pause and reevaluate my life; it snapped me into reality. Thanking my guardian angels, I felt divine love deep in my heart. I'd just experienced a miracle.
As I lay strapped to a back board in the ambulance on the way to Seattle's trauma center, my surroundings became crystal clear. The specks of gray in the EMT's blue eyes, the sound of the pavement beneath the tires, the churning axles, the squeaky chassis just a few feet below my head, the siren of the ambulance, the bumps in the road as we climbed the hill to the ER. The medic checked my vitals and talked with me as I witnessed the calming presence within my heart. Clarity came from deep within as I had the awareness that I would finally need to come into my own—my purpose—if I intended to stick around. I needed to start living my life in accordance with my soul, my Truth. This accident needed to happen. I silently kept thanking God; not for protecting me, but for correcting my course in life.
It's what I was "not" aware of that showed me the accident was no mere accident. It was life correcting itself, correcting me, getting me back in alignment. I was not fully aware of, or accepting the potential consequences of, the fact that "not living" my life—with joy and purpose—was killing me. I knew something was off, but I just kept putting off doing something about it ....one more day, you know.
Paradoxically, nearly losing my life brought me into the present moment where I got a good look at how I was living my life. What I was not aware of—that I was not living in accordance with my soul's purpose—brought me into full awareness that I must get reacquainted with my soul and make some changes. Full-Circle Awareness.
To come "full circle" means to arrive back where you started; that would be my Truth, or Soul, in this case. Full circle awareness begins when you become aware that a circumstance (living in opposition to my Truth) causes a consequence (my accident) and then using the results of the consequence (being jolted into and accepting reality, then taking responsibility) to gain insight—awareness—for how to improve the original circumstance (how I was living, or not living, my life).
I needed that accident to bring me full circle, back to where I started—back in touch with my Soul—because I was choosing to ignore the more subtle signs; illnesses, unhappiness, and general apathy. The trauma forced me to become fully awake—aware—and ready to accept that I'd lost touch with my true essence and needed to figure out how to find my way back home.
It isn't necessary to go through a major event like a car accident to become present. But if we go through life without at least some moment-to-moment awareness—and take personal responsibility, ownership, for the changes needed—these major events will likely do the job for us. Bringing us into the present moment, here, now and fast! It's like Mother Nature correcting the ecosystem of the forest; it's needed for long-term sustainability—and it's inevitable.
To go through life with the blinders on at warp speed, like I was doing, is unnatural. The flowers are there for us to admire, smell, and sometimes pick for our tables. We are meant to smell the freshness of new rain, get caught in it on occasion where we are invited to dance and splash in a puddle or two. We are to daydream as we watch the clouds float by with the changing winds and imagine what it must be like to soar like a bird. When did you last look up at the sky? For me, it had been a while until that day I was strapped to a trauma board.
Try this. Stop, Look, and Listen. What is it that you are doing right now? How does whatever it is that you are doing feel, smell, sound, taste, or look like? Are you inhaling your lunch or have you stopped to enjoy the flavors. Have you considered how that food made it onto your plate? I don't mean you! Who grew, harvested, and shipped the vegetables to the place where you got your food?
The act of awareness is paying attention to your surroundings, listening to your heart, and also accepting what is. I often say, "it is what it is"—meaning, reality. Accepting that "it is what it is" can be hard sometimes and requires deep honesty and personal responsibility. Explore what's painful or doesn't ring true within the "what is" (reality) and work to make it right. Upon examining your "what is" you will become at least a little more aware of it—giving you something to work with. See if you can find a "full-circle awareness" opportunity in your life. One that's happened, to learn from; or one that may be looming, to work with. This Awareness, and acceptance of reality, helps you gain clarity on what next step to take for coming Full Circle, back to your Truth.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Something to Give
What does it mean to give? What is the Gift in Giving?
One of my earliest memories of feeling the impact of someone else's generosity is when I was five years old; I was in first grade.
My teacher, Mrs. Billups, brought a big bag of clothes to school for me. There were dresses, a pair of shiny black shoes, and many other items that I really needed. And then again in second grade, my teacher, Miss Hatton, bought me new pajamas, a robe, and a pair of slippers along with a brand new box of crayons and a coloring book for my upcoming stay at the hospital.
As number eight of nine kids, I wasn't accustomed to having brand new things. And I never imagined I would have my very own crayons and coloring book …let alone "house slippers"! And I loved the softness of my new robe. I felt like a princess all dolled up in my new stuff—even if it was because I had to get my tonsils out!
Throughout my school years there were a few teachers who really made an impression on me through their willingness and choice to give—to give to a child they saw in need. It made me feel special and I dare to consider not having these memories as they are indeed some of my fondest memories of feeling loved.
Not until I became an adult and reflected back did I really begin to understand the power of their choice to give—you see, they didn’t have to, but they did.
I believe lots of people reach out to others and help in a number of ways when they can, but often times people feel that they have nothing to offer, nothing "extra" to give. But, no matter one’s circumstances, we all have something to give. It could be a quiet "random act of kindness" or simply donating clothing or food to a charity. Or it could be through volunteering one’s time, which I believe is one of the most powerful and rewarding methods of giving—both for the recipient as well as for the person giving their time.
For example, many years ago I started working as a volunteer ski instructor for people with disabilities. I chose this organization for a couple of reasons: growing up with a younger sister with profound disabilities, confined to a wheelchair and bed—along with my love for skiing— made this the perfect fit for me. Not only was I quite comfortable around those with disability, but I could get outside and play with them! …something I could never do with my little sister.
For many students, the programs offered through this organization are their only chance to get outside. It is a chance for these people who have some physical or mental challenge to do things they never imagined or gave up hope on long ago. It is a chance for them to gain a sense of independence and know that despite their challenges they are indeed very "able" to get out there and slide on snow just like everybody else!
For instance, I had a student years ago, named Brandon, who had cerebral palsy. He skied with my husband, Bill, also a volunteer ski instructor, and me for a few years. The last year before he and his family moved to the east coast, we asked Brandon, what is your goal for this ski season? He said I want to ski with my family. Brandon’s family would drop him off for his lessons and head out to the mountain for their own skiing and although he would see them out on the mountain he longed to ski "with" them. We worked with him for many weeks and his family would sometimes join us for a run or two. Eventually, though, Brandon began skiing more in control without so much coaching and by the end of the season he was indeed skiing down the hill with his mom, dad, and older brother! …without his instructors! His hard work and determination had paid off!
Another student, Joe, had been hit by a car in his mid-twenties while training for a triathlon and was paralyzed from his waist down. Joe was the perfect candidate for what's called a mono-ski; it looks like chair, of sorts, with a single ski attached on the bottom. He was paired up with my husband so I got to hear about the progress.
Although Joe had remained active since his accident, he was a bit nervous of sliding down a slippery mountain slope in this chair-like contraption! But, through a lot of hard work, frustration, and ton of courage, Joe mastered the mono-ski. To my husband, Joe was another successful student who persevered to do something he didn’t think he could do. Bill, as usual, very honored to be a part of it. But, not until we ran into Joe at a fundraising event for the organization did Bill really understand the impact this experience had on Joe’s life. I stood there and witnessed two grown men exchanging some level of non-dude-like connection; it was as if their souls were touching. It was something I can only name as love. Joe told Bill how the skiing experience changed his life and he couldn’t thank him enough. My husband was quite taken aback with emotion. Feeling the impact he’d had on someone else’s life—doing something he enjoyed. He simply skied with another guy …and helped him learn along the way.
Being a volunteer is a commitment and in some ways requires more dedication than a regular job. But there are so many other ways to give which require less time, are equally important and often life-changing for people.
I believe we are all connected on a soul level—breathing from the same source of energy, called spirit. The spirit in me is the spirit in you. How can we not feel connected!?!
Each of us has our own way of expressing unique talents in this world. Even if there are hundreds or even thousands of other people who do what you do or know what you know, there is no one else who can do it quite like you. And I believe there is someone (on a soul level) out there waiting and hoping to find you, each of us. Once you make yourself available the universe has a way of bringing you in alignment with this person or group of people who need what you have. All you need to do is show up!
Each human is born beautiful, loving, and caring—and each has a natural desire to reach out and help others. For most of us, though, we lose this part of ourselves somewhere along the way in the struggles of life. But, if we can find our way back and remember the power of love through giving it is a way to renew and connect to our souls and the souls others …of someone in need.
So, what is the “gift of giving”? The gift is in knowing you reached out and made a difference in someone else’s life. The gift is all the opportunities to meet new people and hear their stories and experience something that the average everyday life doesn’t offer. The gift is feeling connected at the heart of something, someone. The "gift of giving" is in exchanging this connection with someone else.
So, how can you know the gift of giving? Could it be the simple act of holding the door for someone, giving a smile, or sending your blessings? Or, is it through volunteering?
It doesn’t really matter what you give. What does matter is knowing that you do in fact have something to give …and within the mere giving, lay the gift.
So, what is the gift in giving? You ….are the gift.
Who will open your gift today?
One of my earliest memories of feeling the impact of someone else's generosity is when I was five years old; I was in first grade.
My teacher, Mrs. Billups, brought a big bag of clothes to school for me. There were dresses, a pair of shiny black shoes, and many other items that I really needed. And then again in second grade, my teacher, Miss Hatton, bought me new pajamas, a robe, and a pair of slippers along with a brand new box of crayons and a coloring book for my upcoming stay at the hospital.
As number eight of nine kids, I wasn't accustomed to having brand new things. And I never imagined I would have my very own crayons and coloring book …let alone "house slippers"! And I loved the softness of my new robe. I felt like a princess all dolled up in my new stuff—even if it was because I had to get my tonsils out!
Throughout my school years there were a few teachers who really made an impression on me through their willingness and choice to give—to give to a child they saw in need. It made me feel special and I dare to consider not having these memories as they are indeed some of my fondest memories of feeling loved.
Not until I became an adult and reflected back did I really begin to understand the power of their choice to give—you see, they didn’t have to, but they did.
I believe lots of people reach out to others and help in a number of ways when they can, but often times people feel that they have nothing to offer, nothing "extra" to give. But, no matter one’s circumstances, we all have something to give. It could be a quiet "random act of kindness" or simply donating clothing or food to a charity. Or it could be through volunteering one’s time, which I believe is one of the most powerful and rewarding methods of giving—both for the recipient as well as for the person giving their time.
For example, many years ago I started working as a volunteer ski instructor for people with disabilities. I chose this organization for a couple of reasons: growing up with a younger sister with profound disabilities, confined to a wheelchair and bed—along with my love for skiing— made this the perfect fit for me. Not only was I quite comfortable around those with disability, but I could get outside and play with them! …something I could never do with my little sister.
For many students, the programs offered through this organization are their only chance to get outside. It is a chance for these people who have some physical or mental challenge to do things they never imagined or gave up hope on long ago. It is a chance for them to gain a sense of independence and know that despite their challenges they are indeed very "able" to get out there and slide on snow just like everybody else!
For instance, I had a student years ago, named Brandon, who had cerebral palsy. He skied with my husband, Bill, also a volunteer ski instructor, and me for a few years. The last year before he and his family moved to the east coast, we asked Brandon, what is your goal for this ski season? He said I want to ski with my family. Brandon’s family would drop him off for his lessons and head out to the mountain for their own skiing and although he would see them out on the mountain he longed to ski "with" them. We worked with him for many weeks and his family would sometimes join us for a run or two. Eventually, though, Brandon began skiing more in control without so much coaching and by the end of the season he was indeed skiing down the hill with his mom, dad, and older brother! …without his instructors! His hard work and determination had paid off!
Another student, Joe, had been hit by a car in his mid-twenties while training for a triathlon and was paralyzed from his waist down. Joe was the perfect candidate for what's called a mono-ski; it looks like chair, of sorts, with a single ski attached on the bottom. He was paired up with my husband so I got to hear about the progress.
Although Joe had remained active since his accident, he was a bit nervous of sliding down a slippery mountain slope in this chair-like contraption! But, through a lot of hard work, frustration, and ton of courage, Joe mastered the mono-ski. To my husband, Joe was another successful student who persevered to do something he didn’t think he could do. Bill, as usual, very honored to be a part of it. But, not until we ran into Joe at a fundraising event for the organization did Bill really understand the impact this experience had on Joe’s life. I stood there and witnessed two grown men exchanging some level of non-dude-like connection; it was as if their souls were touching. It was something I can only name as love. Joe told Bill how the skiing experience changed his life and he couldn’t thank him enough. My husband was quite taken aback with emotion. Feeling the impact he’d had on someone else’s life—doing something he enjoyed. He simply skied with another guy …and helped him learn along the way.
Being a volunteer is a commitment and in some ways requires more dedication than a regular job. But there are so many other ways to give which require less time, are equally important and often life-changing for people.
I believe we are all connected on a soul level—breathing from the same source of energy, called spirit. The spirit in me is the spirit in you. How can we not feel connected!?!
Each of us has our own way of expressing unique talents in this world. Even if there are hundreds or even thousands of other people who do what you do or know what you know, there is no one else who can do it quite like you. And I believe there is someone (on a soul level) out there waiting and hoping to find you, each of us. Once you make yourself available the universe has a way of bringing you in alignment with this person or group of people who need what you have. All you need to do is show up!
Each human is born beautiful, loving, and caring—and each has a natural desire to reach out and help others. For most of us, though, we lose this part of ourselves somewhere along the way in the struggles of life. But, if we can find our way back and remember the power of love through giving it is a way to renew and connect to our souls and the souls others …of someone in need.
So, what is the “gift of giving”? The gift is in knowing you reached out and made a difference in someone else’s life. The gift is all the opportunities to meet new people and hear their stories and experience something that the average everyday life doesn’t offer. The gift is feeling connected at the heart of something, someone. The "gift of giving" is in exchanging this connection with someone else.
So, how can you know the gift of giving? Could it be the simple act of holding the door for someone, giving a smile, or sending your blessings? Or, is it through volunteering?
It doesn’t really matter what you give. What does matter is knowing that you do in fact have something to give …and within the mere giving, lay the gift.
So, what is the gift in giving? You ….are the gift.
Who will open your gift today?
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