Enjoy The Day!

With our life circumstances changing all the time, we should take advantage when things begin to settle down. Not knowing when the next storm will come, it is important for us to relax and enjoy the day. Our mind, body, and spirit needs to recoup and balance itself out, as we get in touch with what is real. Everything seems to be a little shakey when we are going through a challenging period in life. We often times find ourselves working so hard to stay afloat that we often times forget what it's like to enjoy ourselves. When we are more apt to be tense and ready to respond to chaos, things that make us laugh and smile takes getting used to again. Remembering to enjoy the day is important because it reminds us that there is a part of us that will always see the light through the darkness.  Today, do something that makes the child in you forget the worries of the world. Sometimes by doing things that make you feel better, you in turn make others feel better too. So spread the joy that you experience with those that you meet in life. Enjoy your day!

It's easy to enjoy the day when you're on the beach...

(Coming back from the beach today, I thought that everyone makes their own day. We decide whether we have a good or bad day. You can put several people together and have them experience the same thing and you'll come out with just as many different perspectives of how their day was. I'm working hard to simplify my life and to enjoy my days doing as little as possible within the day so I can fully be in the moment. It's easier said than done when I'm living alone, but having my daughter home from college, I have to work harder at simplifying my day.) 

Learning From Our Mistakes

For most of us, we see more clearly when we look at our experiences hindsight. We can see where we went wrong and how we could do things better. But if we were to do it again, how sure are we that we wouldn't make the same mistakes. It's not that we intend to do the same things over again, but it may take more than one time for us to learn from our mistakes. There is a reason that we make the wrong choices, but until we truly understand why we do the things we do, the universe will guide us back to where we started. It seems easy for us to see others' mistakes and make judgement on how they live their lives, but before we do, take a look at our own life. We all make mistakes and hopefully we can resolve them in time, but in order to correct them we must overcome our weaknesses and fears. By understanding who we truly are, we can then begin to move forward. Today, think about how you can change some of the patterns in your life. How can you do things differently to achieve a better outcome? You have the ability to attain all that you want, if you're honest with yourself.

Sometimes our life is like a ferris wheel, it keeps going round and round...

(I've been meeting so many people who are afraid to make mistakes in life that they have created a safe place to hide in. Not wanting to take chances, they have stopped moving forward but they are the first to make judgement on how others live their lives. I don't understand how we can grow if we're afraid to learn by making mistakes. Life is about challenging ourselves to do better so that we can help others. I have to think more about this.)

Who To Blame

When the world around us gets so crazy, who is responsible to make things right. Are we attempting to balance our own life or are we waiting for someone to start the process for us. There are many of us who blame others for our world being as chaotic as it is. It has to be someone else who is responsible for the mess we are in now and who is there to listen to our stories of woe. What a predicament we find ourselves in. We are victims of circumstances and aren't sure how to get out of this wallowing of self pity.  Rather than stay in the negative light, there is an alternative. We can rise above our self absorbed thoughts and trust that we can pull ourselves out of the situations we are in. Only we can choose to move forward on our path. There are reasons that other people are in our lives, but it is not to prevent us from seeking our heart's desire. In creating a different reality for ourselves, we will attain what we are searching for in life. Today, listen to yourself. How many times are you blaming others for what is happening in your life? Relook at your circumstances and see where you are at fault and take responsibility. You truly have the strength to be who you are meant to be.

Sometimes we need a buddy to teach us how to stay on the board...

(I may not blame others for the situations I find myself in, but I know that this is also a form of being self absorbed. After raising three kids, I've gotten used to everything being my fault or so they have said. I'm not sure if it makes me stronger because I don't look at others to blame, but it helps me to work on what is going on alot faster. As a parent, we're an easy target for taking responsbility. Even now that they are grown, I still seem to be Kevin Bacon.)

We Are No Different

Although we are unique individuals, we are all the same. No one better or worse than the other. We are all teachers, as well as, students of life. We may do things and react differently to similar situations, but we are basically here to experience life. There are those that we treat with more respect than others because of their higher status in our society, but know that they too have their weaknesses, along side their strengths, like we all do. Having compassion for everyone may be difficult without the understanding that we are basically all the same. Whatever our lessons are, we are here journeying together. Today, know that you are on equal standing with everyone. Be confident that you have a reason to be here and your presence is important in the lives of others who you have touched and will touch in the future. Know that you are where you are supposed to be.

When we appreciate the music, there is no room for judgement...

(Someone told me the other day, "Why don't you practice what you tell others to do?" I didn't take it as insulting because it wasn't meant that way. She actually wanted to know why sometimes I do things that seem to conflict with my writing. I responded that my writing is for everyone including myself and it's not about "practicing" but integrating a compassionate lifestyle within our own life which is a lifetime effort. We all know what we need to do in order to live a balanced life, but sometimes we need reminding. I write to not only remind others, but make a committment to myself to always try to do better. I understand that we are all here to help each other.  

Sitting On The Sidelines

Sometimes when life gets too overwhelming, it's best to sit on the sidelines and watch the game from the bleachers. No one said we had to participate in life all the time. There are times when our minds aren't clear enough to make the best decisions. When we are tired and stressed from thinking about what needs to be done in our life in order to rebalance ourselves, that's the time we need to step back. There is nothing wrong about being still while our life spins out of control. Sometimes pulling back gives us a better perspective of the whole picture. Taking the time to just be, may be the best thing for us to do right now. Today, be still. Let the universe guide you through your week and see what transpires. Whether you are active in life or not, you will still move forward on your path. Be content with where you are today.

Let's just sit on the beach for awhile...

(Although it's hard for me to step back, there are times when I have to give it up to the universe. I understand that there is nothing for me to do but wait and see how things turn out. Even if I want to get the answers to my questions, it always comes in it's own time. When am I going to learn that nothing I do will make things happen before it's time. So I think I'm going to have fun for today.)

Just By Chance

Depending on how we are feeling at the moment, we may believe that things happen for a reason. At other times, when the outcome doesn't please us we are more fatalistic, believing that life happens just by chance, so why worry over things that we can't control. It's like looking for pieces to a puzzle, but never finding the ones that actually fit. We can hypothesize why things happen and how they may affect us in the future, but we may never know for sure. Life is about experiencing and learning, more than it is about questioning and resolving. Today, just enjoy your life. When you find yourself getting caught up in the "Whys", take a step back and appreciate the "Because". You don't always have to know why things happen, just learn and grow from your experiences.

We don't always have to follow others...

(Sometimes the most difficult thing for me is to stop analyzing every situation and just live life. But what does that mean "Live Life". I suppose everyone interprets these words differently, so when referring to them we will always get different reactions. There I go again, looking too deeply into things. I guess that's what makes us all so unique.)

Why Do We Have To Choose

Sometimes in life, we have to make some difficult decisions. Although we may not always feel that we're ready, when it's time to to decide what we're supposed to do, know that we can meet the challenge. It's not our final decision that is important, it's the process that we go through in making the decision that is our lesson to learn. Do we continue what we're used to doing or do we accept that change is inevitable for us to move forward? When the final decision is left solely up to us, we may try to delay choosing what we're going to do because the outcome will impact more than ourselves. Know that whatever we decide, it's the right one for us at this time. Today, reflect upon the decisions that await you. Although there are some that are easy to resolve, others will  make you question why you have to choose because all the possible outcomes may have dire impact on your life. Sometimes you need to ask yourself "What would be the best thing for me to do?" and then let your decision be.

Sometimes it's okay to spend a few moment in making the right decision...

(Sometimes I leave things up to the universe when the decision is too important to make. I try to listen more intently to what is going on around me, hoping that I will receive a clue that will help guide me in making the right decision. I wonder if we can change our minds if things don't work out the way we'd like it to be.)



Making Time For Your Loved Ones

We all have busy lives and it may seem that we don't have a moment to spare for others. But it's important that we do make time for those we love and care for because it brings balance to our life. Sometimes it seems impossible that we do all that we do within the time that we have, but yet we somehow make it all work out. Although there are commitments to be made, it's worth every minute when our family and friends bring laughter and joy to our life. They bring sanity to a sometimes insane world. Today, remember to set aside time for those you love when scheduling your day. They are an important part of who you are and who you are becoming.

Spending time with friends is the one of the best things in life...

(I'm blessed with knowing such wonderful people. They are angels who were sent to help me through my crazy life. Although my life is sometimes chaotic and it always seems as if I'm running out of time, spending time with friends makes me feel so good. They bring sanity to my life. I appreciate them all.)

Life Is About Changes

Sometimes in life, we wake up with a feeling that something is not quite right. We can't put our finger on it because it's just a whisper in our mind. A knowing that we're not where we are supposed to be. It's difficult for us to understand what we are feeling because it's not tangible. It's just a definate knowing that something has changed within us and we no longer belong where we are. With this information, we can either deny what we are feeling or acknowledge it and be aware that our life will be moving in a different direction fairly soon. The more we are in touch with who we are, the more sensitive we are with where we are supposed to be. We may not know exactly what we supposed to be doing or where we are supposed to be, but we do know that things are changing. The universe has plans for us that even we can't anticipate. Today, what is your inner voice telling you. Are you where you're supposed to be? If you are, then make the most of it by helping yourself to help others. If not, prepare yourself for things to come. Life is about changes and the opportunities they bring.

This is where I need to be...

(The funny thing about life is when you become too comfortable, things begin to shake up a little. It kind of irks me because just when my life begins to settle down, something happens to get me off balanced. I think the universe has a wonderful sense of humor but sometimes I don't get the joke. Although I do understand that I learn more about myself during times of change, then I do when I'm at peace.) 

Snapshots of Life

When life doesn't go the way we'd like it to, it's difficult for us to remember that it's not always like this. While going through a challenging time, remembering when life was better isn't easy. For all we can manage to do is to put one foot in front of the other to get through the day. That's why it's important to begin taking snapshots of happier times, imprinting scenes in our mind of moments that made us laugh, feel relaxed, and inspired. Life will always have it's ups and downs and it is up to us to learn how to manuever through the difficult times more easily. Being able to view these snapshots of life, we will be reminded that no matter what we are going through now, life is not always like this. One memorable snapshot can change how we feel the whole day. Today, begin taking snapshots of your life. Stop and take a picture in your mind of moments you'd like to remember. When taking pictures, candid shots are more memorable than ones that everyone poses for. These are the ones you keep closest to your heart.

You can never go wrong taking pictures at the beach...

(Having a really bad memory, it's difficult as is to remember anything unless I write it down. For myself, I tend to remember my emotions rather than the actual scene of what I was doing. The picture itself may be a little hazy, but I remember clearly how I was feeling. I guess taking snapshots of my emotions works better for me.)

Listening To The Voice Within You

We often times hear, "Listen to the voice within you"  but what does this truly mean. We live such busy lives that it's a normal occurance to be bombarded by noise all the time. This would include family and loved ones, who feel that they know exactly what we need and aren't shy about telling us. Sometimes we get so used to hearing the voices of everyone else that we forget what our own voice sounds like. Even if our voice is so quiet that it seems like only a whisper, we can teach ourselves to listen more intently so that we can recognize it. It may not seem to be as strong as the voices that we hear from others, but it will never steer us in the wrong direction. It's up to us to listen and trust that it will guide us on our path. Today, just listen to the sounds that surround you. As you begin to recognize them as being outside yourself, you will be more apt to know your own. Listen intently to the voice within you and it will lead you towards your heart's desire.

When it's quiet, it's surprising how much we are able to hear...

(Although I hear my inner voice, it seems to be as confused as I feel. It could be that I'm just not ready to hear what it is actually saying to me, especially if it's a decision that I am not yet ready to commit to. Then for the mean time, I pretend that it doesn't know what it's talking about.)

Believing In Yourself

Although most of us may know what our strengths are, we are often times hesitant to share what we know to be true. It's not that anyone has ever challenged us, but when asked what we are good at, why do we feel so awkward being honest about who we are. There are times when being humble is appropriate, but there are other times when we need to step up to the plate. How can we move forward on our path, if we haven't learned to express who we are? We are our strengths, as well as, our weaknesses. Today, think about your strengths. How are you using them to help others? As you continue on your path, you will need to be strong to realize your heart's desire.

Sometimes it takes courage to be different...

(I'm not sure if it's human nature to doubt what we know to be true or if culture plays a large role in believing who we are. Being Asian American, being taught to be humble is part of our makeup. One of the most difficult challenge is integrating culture, experience, and inner guidance in trusting and  believing in who I am.) 

Deciding What To Do In Life

Sometimes it's difficult to make a decision when there is emotion involved. Even if we were to look at the pros and cons, we still wouldn't be able to decide because we're not making a decision based only on the information we've received. Although this would be the logical thing to do, the best choice may not be the right decision for us. If we were to listen to the voice within that guides us, as well as, thinking about what would be good for us, the final decision may be clearer. Today, just be. There is no rush in deciding what to do. Everything can wait till you take a moment to be still. When making decisions you can only be as sure as what is going on with you today.

Sometimes it's so hard to make the right choice...

(The more impact my decisions have in my life, the hardest it is to decide . When I start thinking about doing the "right" thing, it becomes almost impossible because my emotions tend to confuse me. The best thing for me, may be just doing what feels "right", which may not be the most logical.)

Dreaming in Life

As children, there are no limits to our dreams. No matter how unrealistic they were, we felt that we could get and do anything we wanted. In our minds, nothing was too outrageous or out of our reach. What was so clear, changed as life happens and has become only a faint memory. For many of us, we use our responsibilities and obligations as excuses why we've lost sight of our dreams. But if we truly wanted something couldn't we have integrated it into the life we have now. Today, spend more time recapturing your dreams. They have never really left you, but have been put aside until you are ready to realize them again. Dreams are a way for you to see your path more clearly.

Relax, it's your day...

(What is the difference between having goals and dreaming? I'm used to setting goals, but dreaming is a little bit more difficult for me to understand because there doesn't seem to be any structure. I guess dreams lets us see life in a "what if" perspective. The "what ifs" makes me think outside the box. I guess I should dream a little bit more because the "what ifs" makes me smile.)

Simplifying Our Life

Sometimes we get so busy in life that we forget that we have a choice to slow down. But how do we do this when we're so used to running around. We barely have enough time to accomplish what we have planned. So how do we do what we need to do in less time. It's actually not the time that we need to lessen but the amount of things that we are committing ourselves to. Are the things that we are doing in our lives important to our journey. We may not be able to answer this until hindsight, but we do know what is our priorities in life. Are the things that we are doing interfering with our priorities. If one of our priorities is family, then are we taking away from family time and is it in the best interest of those we love. The decision to make changes in our life takes time and lots of thought. Just acknowledging that we are overloaded with busy work is a step forward. Life is truly what we make it. Today, think about how busy you are. Are you spending enough time on your priorities? You can be living a life that you've envisioned, if you only take the time to simplify it.

How relaxing...

(Sometimes I get so caught up in life that I make it much more than it really is. I don't think I lean towards drama, but exaggeration. I take on more than I can handle, not that I can't get things done but I don't have to be so hard on myself. Learning to take it easy after being so busy is really challenging. I think the key is to get the quality of work done even if I can't get the quantity.)

Celebrating Life

Whether or not life is going our way, we can still appreciate that we have the opportunity to change the ways things are. Sometimes we may feel that we are helpless pawns, but we really do have some control as to the direction we take in life. This doesn't mean that all the decisions we make are wise ones, but we are fortunate in that we are able to fix those that don't turn out so well for us. Today, celebrate your life. Even if your journey is not what you thought it would be at this time, rejoice for it's in the chaos that we truly find our way.

No matter what door you choice, it will lead you where you want to go...

(Sometimes I get caught up with my mistakes that I lose focus of where I was going in the first place. I visualize what I want and when things don't turn out the way I saw it, it takes me awhile to readjust the picture as I see it. It doesn't mean that it turns out badly, just not the way I initially pictured it. I need to remind myself that it's truly the journey that is important, not the end results.)

Preparing For Stormy Weather

After several days of gloomy weather, we appreciate when the sun comes out to brighten our day. But what happens when we are blessed with months of great weather, no grey clouds to dampen our days. Most of us forget what it's like walking around feeling depressed because the weather is not cooperating. So when it begins to rain again, we get angry that we are being inconvenienced. Not understanding that winter weather is a natural occurence and not something unusual. Like the weather, when we are blessed with a fortunate life, we are sometimes surprised when things don't go well. We get upset that our life is now in turmoil and question why this is happening to us. Instead of acknowledging the blessings that we have in our life, we feel put upon. Life is like the weather, we don't appreciate what we have until the clouds roll in. Today, count your blessings. Whether your life is balanced or not, everything is as it ought to be. You can't always know what is going to happen in the future, but we can prepare for the worst. Begin by carrying an umbrella to keep you from getting wet.

What a beautiful day...

(It's been so sunny these past few weeks that I can't remember when the last down pour was. Since I've been going to the beach on the weekends, I am more aware of the weather than before. I notice when the clouds roll in and when the wind begins to pick up. I wish I was more aware of the subtle nuances in my life, so that I can prepare for what may happen. Going to the beach is alot easier than deciding what to do with my life.) 

Changing Others

How many of us have thought that things could be better if the other person would change? Some of us spend so much time and energy trying to change others to fit our needs. But if we were to stop trying so hard to mold people to our specifications and instead work on ourselves to be more patient and tolerant of others, how would our life be then. It's definately easier to find fault in others than in ourselves. Reflecting upon our own imperfection takes courage. For who wants to see themselves for who they truly are. Finding fault in others helps us to overlook the weaknesses in ourselves. Today, see others for who they are trying to be. Instead of getting upset, try looking at your own weaknesses. If you concentrate on improving yourself not others, you will begin to see the world as it truly is, a more compassionate place to be.

At the beginning, no one seems to have any faults...

(I don't normally want to change people. I'm not sure if it's because I don't notice their quirks or because I'm too self absorbed. Having my own problems keep me occupied that I don't have time to obsess about others. I also think it's because everyone works as hard as I do at being who they are, whether I like what they are doing or not.)

Sitting Quietly

When we find ourselves having a difficult time deciding what to do, it's time to sit quietly for a moment. It's not that the answers will come more easily, but we're giving ourselves time to settle down. Not knowing what to do is not a comfortable place to be. It's human nature for us to want to be in control of our life and to be able to make wise decisions that will directly impact our life. So when we're unable to make up our mind, it's not unusual to want to find someone who can tell us what to do. But this would be a mistake because no one really knows what is best for us but ourselves and even then we ourselves don't know how things are going turn out. To be caught in this pedicament is a life lesson in itself, do we have the faith to trust what our inner spirit is saying or are we making decisions based on our past fears. That's why it's so important to just sit quietly for a moment and let the anxiousness flow out of our body. It will be replaced with the understanding that no matter what we decide to do, everything will turn out the way it's suppose to. Today, don't make any rash decisions. Be open to the flow of the universe and the answers will come. You deserve to live a life you were meant to lead.

Being in the water, there is nothing to do but relax...

(Trying to answer a question that has no logical answer is one of the most difficult thing to do, especially if you're the only one that can make the decision. Questions like these, though few and far apart, make me anxious because no matter what I decide, someone will be hurt. Although there are no winners or losers in life, people do lose things. I'm putting all decisions aside for today and just sitting quietly. I think it's more about avoiding than  trusting that all will go well in the end.)

Believing In What You Do

Sometimes in life we do things that others don't agree with or understand. Although our actions and behaviors are based on our past experiences and culture, we still have a tendency to listen to what others have to say. Many of us value the opinions of others and may change what we are doing based on their advice. But there are some things in life that we are sure of whether or not others think it is wise. It's difficult for us to continue walking the same path if those that we are close to are telling us to go in another direction. But what it comes down to is how much do we believe in what we are doing. Can we say to others, "I understand how much you care about me, but I've got to do this." Sometimes what we do doesn't make sense, even to ourselves, but there is an urging to continue down this path. Our journey may not be the easiest, but it's what makes us who we are. Today, make no excuses for your decisions. Those that are close to you may question them, but know that although your actions may not seem reasonable, they are part of your journey, no one elses. By believing in yourself, you will venture much further in life.

Sometimes our path is not always so easy...

(When making decision, I usually deliberate over it for awhile before actually deciding what to do. That's why it always amazes me when people have a strong opinion about my decisions. It's not that I will be changing what I'm going to do, but that my decisions really affect how others feel. I just think it's interesting, how people feel that they know me so well that they are able to tell me what I should do. I wish it were that easy.)

Being Open To Where Our Path Leads Us

Sometimes when we're so set in our ways, we aren't always aware with what is happening around us. We walk around with blinders over our eyes, so we can pretend that we don't see what we don't want to. Although we try to do our best, it's difficult to be prepared for everything and life has a way of challenging us. If we open ourselves to where our path leads us, we may live a more peaceful life. Today, let your spirit guide you. There are many unfamiliar places or things you can do that will lead you down a path that may surprise you. Trust that the universe has plans for you that you could only imagine. Be open to what comes your way.

Let's try something different...

(Sometimes I have to be reminded that the universe has a bigger plan for me. It's so hard for me to see beyond what I've been doing, even when I know it's time for a change. I find myself going back to what I'm used to. It's more than just trying harder, it's changing the way I think about myself. Knowing what's good for you and doing what is good for you is a work in progress.)

Releasing Our Control

How much faith do we have in the universe, if we hold so tightly to the way things are? The fear of not knowing keeps us bound to the lifestyle we've gotten used and what could be worse than what we are doing now. But what if things could be better? What then? We are caught up in the drama that we ourselves have created, that it is difficult to rewrite the script while it's still being played out. But what if we do have the option to change our future, if only we release some of the control we have over our fears. Having faith that the universe has a greater plan for us takes strength, but we have it within us to be who we were truly meant to be. Today, take a look at your daily habits. What is one thing that you could change that would improve your day? When you begin to look at things differently, you open yourself up to new opportunities. Release your control and you will find yourself moving forward much more quickly.

By exploring, we may encounter some really interesting things...

(Releasing control is one of the most difficult things for me to do. I feel like I have to organize my life or else everything will be in chaos or never get completed. This is one of the things that I have to really concentrate on or else I can't see myself doing. But isn't that strange, having to work at releasing control. More to think about.)

The Wounded Child Within Us

For most of us, there is a child within us that has a need to feel safe. As we are growing up, we are reassured by others that the world around us won't hurt us and our well being is not threatened. But there are some, where safety is still an issue for them. The need to protect oneself is human nature, but to feel that we always have to be concerned about this is challenging, especially in a relationship. Developing trust is an ongoing struggle, for fear that the other person will eventually hurt us. How can the wounded child be healed if no one can get close enough to touch this child's heart? There are many wounded children in the world who need our patience and nurturing to help them journey on their path. Who amongst us has the strength to take on this task? Today, look within yourself and acknowledge the child. Appreciate the knowledge this child brings to your life and listen to the fears that hinder you from moving forward. Healing the child within is only part of our journey in life.

Letting the child within play is part of the healing process...

(I sometimes have to remember that it's not only about learning to play, but it's about my actions and behaviors. The child within me comes out when I'm irritable and tired. She whines, snaps and often times throws a pretty mean tantrum. It's not often that she appears, but when she does it's a reaction from the past. I'll need to resolve some of the past hurts to begin healing the child that is within me.) 

Knowing Who We Are

As we go through life, there are times when we question who we are. Because we are always evolving, the answer may change depending on the moment. But what remains constant is our foundation. Who we are inside, our inner spirit doesn't falter. We build our life upon what makes us strong. But there are times in life, when others will challenge what we know to be true, so that we begin to question the core of who we are. It's difficult to stand tall when our foundation begins to weaken. It may be human nature to question who we are, but why do we let others convince us that we are not the person we are meant to be. When others begins to chip away at our self confidence, acknowledge and appreciate their efforts. For it's our lesson to learn that no one can take away who we are, but ourselves and knowing ourselves better gives us strength. Today, resolve to stand taller knowing who you are. Know that you are here to make an impact on the universe by being the best person you can be and to help others on their journey. You are not here to lessen anyone's spirit but to add to their light. Say to yourself, "I know who I am".

Can we be as strong as the rocks along the ocean shore...

(Knowing who I am as opposed to believing who I am are two different things. I know in my heart who I am and what I know to be true, but there are times when I find myself doubting what I know. It's funny how just the tiniest comments can make me question everything about myself and what I'm doing. I have to tell myself to find the lesson hidden within my insecurities. It's not a good place to be, but I understand that it will make me stronger in the long run.)

Living A Selfless Life

It is human nature for us to think about ourselves in order to survive in the world, but how far will this take us in building relationships with others. It's a great excuse to say that "I need to think more about myself", but can't we take care of ourselves as well as others or do we need to decide one over the other. Although we are taught to help others, knowing and doing this are two different things. We know what we ought to do, but when life keeps us so busy, it's challenging to remember. When our life becomes only about ourselves, it's difficult to maintain close relationships because there isn't room for anyone but ourselves. In order to live a balanced life, we need to reasses how self involved we are and how are our behaviors and actions are affecting the people we are close to. There are times when we do need to care for ourselves, but caring for ourselves is also about maintaining healthy relationships. Today, think about how many times during the day do you refer to yourself? Now, how many times a day do you think of the well being of others? Is there a balance or are you self absorbed? No one can take anything from you that you are not willing to share. Be open to others and a whole new world with appear.

Although being by yourself may sometimes be easier, it's not always as fun...

(I didn't realize how much I've gotten used to being by myself, until my 2 college kids came home for the summer. There went the self imposed solitude I created. Sometimes I fool myself thinking that peace and quiet is the key to writing, it's not. Chaos is actually the secret to creativity.) 

It's Okay To Change Our Mind

For many of us, the goals we set for ourselves help us to focus on what we want. There is no doubt that if we set our mind on something, we can attain it. But what happens when in midstream, we change our mind about what we want. No one can forsee the future and how our daily experiences directly impacts the choices that we make. We can only set our goals based on the needs we have at that time, but this can change the very next day if we encounter something that redirects our focus. We tend to be hard on ourselves when we don't meet our goals. Society frowns on those who are constantly influx and seemingly not knowing what they are doing. But are these people actually without goals or are they actively listening to their inner spirit guiding them on their journey. It may be one of the most challenging things we do, listening to what brings us joy. It's okay to change our minds because what was good for us yesterday, may not be the best thing to do at this moment. Today, be aware of the choices you make. Are your goals to still applicable to attaining your heart's desire or do you need to make some adjustments? Love and respect yourself enough to be okay with the decisions you make.

Sometimes it's easier to follow then to make our own decisions...

(I think the hardest thing for me is being okay with changing my goals. I tend to be goal oriented, so I want to achieve them before I move on. When you change midstream it's like you never really accomplished anything. But I guess it's not in the achieving, but doing what is right for me. This will be a work in progress. This is in line with dreams, for they often change story lines too.)

  

Living Our Dreams

Most of us have dreams that seem so unattainable that they stay safely hidden in the back of our minds. Every once and awhile, we take them out and think about the "what ifs". What if dreams do come true, what would our life be like? Could the unimaginable happen, where we truly can live our dreams? Although it may seem as if they push what is reality, it may be that we just don't have the courage to believe in the "what ifs'. If we believed that anything happen and it doesn't come to pass, the disappointment may discourage us from dreaming in the future. But if we stopped believing in our dreams, then we may lose hope in pursuing our heart's desire. For isn't our heart's desire a large part of our dreams. There is a reason why we dream, it's the incentive we need to strive for more and to always do better in hopes that all we believe in may come true. Today, what do you dream about? Remember it's not about when dreams come to pass, but that you believe that they will come. Having the ability to dream is a gift that you should cherish and appreciate. For not everyone has the freedom to dream of what may become a reality someday. Keep your dreams safe and alive in your heart for one day, they won't be a dream but your reality.

Having a relaxing place to dream is just the beginning...

(I never really thought about creating a place to dream, until someone created one for me. Sometimes it takes others to teach us something so basic. Living my dreams began with acknowledging that it's okay to want more than what I have and to accept gifts with graciousness. I'm so thankful that B created a beautiful room for me to begin living my dreams. She is truly an angel.)

Focusing On Our Life

Although life is busy, it seems that we still have time to mind other people's business. Not that they ask us for our opinion, but we are so willing to share what we think. We sometimes forget that everyone comes from a different background and past experiences, so we all react differently to situations. So who are we to think that we are correct and others wrong in dealing with their life. Focusing on our own life may get boring, but how else are we going to seek our heart's desire if we get side tracked. Life can be simple if we choose it to be. Today, concentrate on what needs to be done in your own life. With a little housecleaning, you can venture down your path a little easier. By focusing on your life, you can understand others better.

There are times when we really do have to focus on what we are doing...

(Although most of the time I focus on what I'm doing, I sometimes find myself getting caught up in other peoples' life. It's not that their life is any more interesting than mine, but it seems that the drama draws me in. Usually it will take me just a moment to gather myself and continue on my own unique path, but I do get there eventually.) 

Looking Into The Mirror

If we think about people who irritate us or get us upset, we can come up with all kinds of reasons as to why this is so. What is it that bothers us so much about these people, that just hearing their names gets us riled up? It may have been something they did to us or towards others, but whatever was done we've held on to the emotions for awhile now. The irritation has festered, so any interaction with this person is like pouring salt into a gaping wound. If we can step aside from the emotions for a moment and identify what exactly is it about these people that bother us. We may find that it is not the individual person, but a quality or qualities that all of them have in common. And if this is so, then is this a quality that is a weakness within us. Something that we ourselves need to work on, whether to develop it or keep it in check. Whatever the case may be, the people that most bother us are really a mirror of our own insecurities. So the next time someone really gets us upset, dig deeper. The universe leads these people to us so we can understand ourselves a little more and grow from our experience. Today, take a moment to think about the people who you've been unable to let go. Try to identify what it is that irritates you, then bring it back to yourself. What are the weaknesses within yourself? As you learn more about yourself, you can become more compassionate towards others.

Sometimes we need a quiet place to reflect...

(There aren't alot of people who irritate me or if they do it doesn't last very long. I've found that many of the qualities that I don't care for are identified within my culture as negative behaviors. So I'm not sure if I personally find these qualities to be offensive or if I was taught this as a child. Interesting food for thought.)