Finding Your Personal Space

Sometimes without even being aware of what we are doing, we physically need to move away from people who we feel unsafe with. Unconsciously, we protect ourselves from harm by surrounding ourselves with a bubble which seems to keep others from coming too close. Only those who we feel safe with, do we allow within our circle. The personal space which we create is unique. For some, this space may be only an arm's length away, but for others it may be much further. The space we create is also the distance that we are able to emit our energy. It's within this area that others may feel discomforted if they come to close. The level of energy which is emitted changes depending on the level of emotion we are experiencing at the time. Trust that our inner spirit guides us in creating a personal space that is unique to who we are. Today, be aware of your personal space. Practice on different people, as to how close can they come before you feel uncomfortable. Once you feel as if they are too close, how soon before they feel the need to move away. The more we become in tuned to our bodies and energy, the more we'll be aware of how other people affect us.

Even hidden away, we can still feel energy...

(I found this buddha head, hidden in the shrubs. It was in a meditative garden, but tucked away from the main path. Although it looked like it was put there by accident, once found it had a very strong presence. I sat for awhile looking at it and felt a quiet sense of peace come over me. I guess who ever placed it there, gave it deep thought. I'm glad that she did.)

Living A Fantasy

Sometimes when we are missing something in our life, we begin to dream about how it could be, "if". In creating a fantasy, we have no boundaries or worries. Our fantasy life fulfills all our wants and desires. The problem occurs when we spend too much time thinking about how things could be "if", instead of actually addressing what is missing from our life and working towards filling the emptiness. Part of dreaming is that we don't have to worry about things going wrong. But know that at anytime, we all have the ability to turn our fantasies into reality, if we choose to. Today, reflect upon some of the things you have been fantasizing about. What are the possibilities of turning one into a reality? Do you believe that you deserve what you have only been dreaming about? For today, make one of your fantasies come true and see where it leads you.

Let's take a walk on the beach this morning...

(Sometimes it's comforting creating a fantasy world that I can slip in and out of when life gets too crazy. I think the danger comes when the fantasy becomes more attractive than the life we are currently living. There is a reason why I am where I am at, I just need to remind myself of that.)

Giving Up Control

Sometimes when things aren't going so well for us, we may find it difficult to find the silver lining in life. No matter how much we go over the situation, our mind is too cloudy to think. We are too entrenched in the moment to be able to make sense of what is happening. Not being able to clearly focus on our tasks can be discouraging, when we are used to moving forward with clarity. We may find ourselves sliding down a slippery slope of self doubt. It is at this point, that it is better for us to slow down and take life a step at a time. Although we might not understand what is going on, we can appreciate that no matter what we do at this time may not turn out successfully. So it may best for us to give up controlling our life and let the universe guide us for a moment. Trust that we are being led in the right direction and we will soon see the light that will clarify all things. Today, be aware of what is going around you as you go through your day. Be guided by your instincts instead of your head and see where you end up. Trust that in your moment of stillness, the answers will come.

Sometimes life isn't as clear as we'd like it to be...

(It's frustrating for me when I'm not focused. No matter how much I'd like to keep moving forward, it's as if life says "No, you need to slow down and regroup". When looking back, I see the importance of being still. But while in the moment, it's difficult. Taking the time to reflect is always an ongoing challenge.)

  

Taking A Chance

For many of us, we work hard in creating a life that is comfortable and safe that shaking things up brings out our deepest fears. There are no guarantees that changes will make life any better for us. We can only trust that the choices we make will move us forward on our path. As challenging as this may be, it's time to take a chance on what our life could be. The universe opens up when we overcome our fears. Today, do something you've never done before. When you begin to take chances on yourself, you open yourselves up to a life you'd never imagine. Although being safe and comfortable is what you've worked for, every once and awhile, you need to move past your fears and live a life of joy.

 Trusting that all will be well...

(It's difficult to do things differently when I'm at peace. Why change things if everything seems to be working? Then I remember, good or bad, life is about changes. Sometimes I want to step outside of my comfort zone, but it's too scary. I know if I wait long enough, everything changes.

Seeing Rainbows

Sometimes in life we are so busy looking down that we don't have an opportunity to see all the wonderful things that are happening all around us. Part of living life, is being a part of what is going on. There are miracles that occur everyday, but we miss most of them because we are concentrating so hard on the past and future. We can't go back and redo the past and we can't live in the future while we are in the present. Start to look up for it's there that you will see the rainbows that will bring joy into your life. Today, begin to look for the miracles that are happening in your life. As you begin to recognize the good in your life, you will soon see that more opportunities await you.

There is beauty all around, if we only take the time to notice them...

(Even when I'm at work, I can still see beauty amongst the people I work with. They bring joy and laughter to my day.)

Taking The Day Off

Although we may have good intentions to live a compassionate life, it sometimes gets overwhelming to be who we were meant to be. In theory, everything seems to make sense, but when we begin to apply what we've learned, that's when the difficulty begins. Developing new habits can be tiring because we are overriding our natural instincts to protect ourselves from what we fear. Every once and awhile, we need to take a day off to rest and take care of ourselves. It's when we are at peace with ourselves can we better understand the bigger picture. Today, take a break. Relax your mind and do something that makes you happy. When there is joy in your life, the universe flows freely through you. Tomorrow will come no matter what you do today.

   Let's just play today...

(I'm feeling a little tired, so everything I do seems a little more challenging. It's hard to think of caring for others when we're not feeling well. But then I remind myself that if one of my children needed me, I would be right there. So in that sense, even if I'm tired I am still able to care for others.)

When Has Listening Become So Difficult

It's frustrating when we have something to say and no one seems to be listening. Maybe it's not so much as listening to what is being said, but acknowledging and respecting what we are feeling. There are many of us, who respond before others finish their sentences. We have already formed an opinion of what has been said and can't wait to share it. Instead of taking the time to reflect upon how the other person is feeling, we rush to give our opinion without even asking if the other person wanted it. It's time we stop talking for awhile, so we can hear what others are trying to tell us. Today, be quiet and listen. You'll be surprised that the message may be very different from what is actually being said. Sometimes just spending time with those we love is all that matters. Compassion for others will grow as we become more empathetic to how others are feeling.

Let's sit awhile...

(Sometimes I am guilty for not listening. In fact, my kids are always saying that I talk before they are done telling me their story. Apologizing is not enough. I really have to work on this. I have to remember that it's not the story that is important, it's the time they spend telling me about their day.)

Taking A Leap Of Faith

Sometimes in life, we wonder if we should be taking a leap of faith in order to move forward on our path. It's strange but this is especially true, when we're feeling comfortable. Although we work hard to be in control of our life, there is still a feeling that we're supposed to be doing something more. Our life doesn't end until the time we're no longer here, until that time we continue to be a part of the universal flow. This means that even though we don't know the details of our future, trusting that the universe will guide us in the right direction is taking a leap of faith. Today, take a break from all the busyness in your life. Slow down and take a look at where you are going. Even if you've had a few disruptions lately, gather yourself and get back on track. Take a leap of faith and know that everything will turn out for the best. Wait patiently, while fortune comes back to meet you again.

Sometimes you have to trust that you're going the right way...

(Often times, I feel as if I am following the universal flow blindly. I trust that I am where I am because of my actions and a divine plan, of which I'm not privy to at the moment. For the most part, I take a day at a time but there are other times that I wish I had the ability to peek into the future. I guess if I was meant to see where I was going, I would.)

Learning To Receive

For most of us, the challenge is finding out what our purpose is in life. What is it that we were meant to do that gives meaning to our existance. In fact, we may go through our entire life wondering if we accomplished what the universe had planned for us. Although we ask for guidance, how many of us truly expect our question to be answered. How comfortable are we in receiving. There are many of us, who are natural nurturers by heart. We will go to lengths to help others, but we become uncomfortable and feel undeserving when others give to us. Learning to receive graciously is just as important as the act of giving unconditionally. As we go through life seeking our purpose, practice asking others for their help so that they may have an opportunity to give. Today, receive graciously. Acknowledge that you are deserving to attain your heart's desire. Give the universe a chance to take care of you.

Blow the candles out and make a wish...

(It's so much easier for me to give than to receive. Asking for help is alot more difficult. I think it may be a control thing.  I understand about closing the circle, but it's getting over the "I can do it all" mentally that is the biggest hurdle. I guess it's about doing a little of both, giving and receiving.) 

Let Others Be

Although most of us lead busy lives, we somehow find the time to talk about other people. Sometimes gossiping becomes one of our favorite past time. Not that we don't have things to worry or work on in our own lives, but it seems more interesting to share our opinions of others amongst our closest friends. We become self appointed experts in relationships, career, and fashion. If anyone would listen in on these conversations, they would be surprised at the intensity of emotion that is spent. If we were to stop gossiping and take care of our own business, think how different our life would be. Know that when we speak ill of others, we detract from the goodness that is within us. Today, stop talking about others. At the end of the day, reflect upon how easy or difficult this was for you. Instead of gossiping, use that time to catch up on how others are doing. It's important to use our time wisely and just let others be.



It's hard not to talk about others when we're with friends...

(I'm not sure why we spend time talking about others. I know it's not a good way to spend my time, but when someone starts it's not like I leave or change the subject. All I know is that this is something I have to think more about more.)

The True Meaning Of Equality

We have often heard that we should treat everyone equally. Although for some this may be a challenging thing to do, for most of us, we could easily say that we do not discriminate based on gender, ethnicity, or age. But what if we take this a little further. Can we say that we truly treat everyone equally? Family, friends, and foe. It is easy to treat those who we like and who like us, with compassion. But what about those who are our enemies and treat us with animosity. Could we be just as compassionate and treat them as we would someone we liked? I think for most of us, we would have to take a moment to think about that concept. Treating everyone, even those who don't like us, with respect. Know that everyone is truly the same. Beneath the personalities, we all want to be loved and not suffer in our lifetime. Today, treat a stranger with compassion. If you begin with someone you are not close with, you can begin to understand that under all the emotions that you have for family, friends, as well as, our enemies, we are all alike. By treating everyone equally, you are able to move forward in living a life with compassion.

Can you imagine if everyone was truly equal?...

(I thought I treated everyone equally, but going a little deeper is a humbling experience. I truly do not consider everyone my friends and do have a tendency to be standoffish to those I'm not close to. I'm going to need to work on this and see what happens. Being compassionate is harder than I thought it would be. I am only scratching the surface.)

Waiting For Signs

There are many of us who wait patiently for the universe to guide us through life. We look intently for signs to show us which way to go on our path. But if asked what we are looking for, I'm not sure if any of us would know. Although we feel confident that if we saw them, we would easily recognize them. In fact, some of us may wait our entire life waiting for signs to direct our next move. In waiting, we've become paralyzed because we're afraid or not sure what to do next. It's pretty scary to think that we would miss living the life we were meant to lead, if we were to make our own decisions without guidance. What if we make a mistake? Know that even if we make mistakes, we can still live our lives to the fullest. By making the most out of each moment is a sign that we understand that the universe is always a part of us. Today, think of a question that you may have about your life. Then release the question and go about your day. If you are open to the universal energy that  flows around you, you will receive your answer by the end of the day. Have a gentle day!

 It's a beautiful day, who reads signs...

(In the past, I would get carried away in reading too deeply into what I thought was a sign telling me what I should do. I would put my own spin on it to make it go the way I wanted the outcome to turn out. After realizing what I was doing, I stick with my first reaction. When I over think, things get complicated. It's like driving, read the signs then move on because otherwise you are stopping the traffic behind you.)

Taking The Next Step

After reading literature that helps to inspire and motivate us, it's important to apply what we've learned to our every day life. There are some that meet with others who are liked mind, to discuss the meaning of what they have read but are they spending an equal amount of time demonstrating what they've discussed. Now that we have studied about living a compassionate life, let's put theory into action. Everything we learn makes sense, it's just applying it that takes courage. Today, put down your books and apply what you've learned. Consciously choose one positive behavior or caring word that you can share with someone. By demonstrating what you've read, you are taking the next step towards living a life of true compassion.

There are no words to describe the beauty of nature...

(I tend to be more academic, so reading and studying comes naturally for me. But at one point, I need to close my books and live life. Every thing is theoretical until we actually implement what we have learned. At the end of the day, I ask myself what have I done to make the world a better place. Sometimes I come up with nothing and sometimes I do little things that surprises even myself.)

Changing The Course Of Our Path

Sometimes when we least expect it, there is a need to change the course of our path. For many of us, we find comfort in traveling a familiar road. One that we've passed so many times before that we can manuever it's many twists and turns with our eyes closed. We're not anticipating any surprises along the way. But for some of us, the universe may have other plans and we soon find ourselves lost, trying to find our way through the darkness. What was once a familiar place has become strange and we are without reference. It's up to us whether we choose to brave this unexpected turn of events or fall prey to our fears. Taking up the challenge to move forward on a new path takes courage and trust that the compassionate universe continues to flow through us where ever our journey takes us. Today, have faith that you are always on the right path. Although sometimes it seems that nothing is going your way, know that when the time is right, everything comes together like it should. Be patient and you will see how destiny plays out for us all.

What is this...

(Sometimes I just don't have a clue where I am headed. I have no plans or idea what I'm supposed to do next. So at that time, it's best for me to just stop, enjoy the present, and trust that everything will fall into place. I'm so used to planning for the future, that I think I just tire myself out. I guess when I get like this my brain is taking time out to recoup. Although I wish it would give me a head's up before blanking out.)

Being Okay With Who You Are

We all go through times when we're not happy with ourselves. Some of us more than others, go through moments of self doubt when we question whether we did or said the right thing. There are so many times we could have done things better. Not that we can come up with anything that would have improved what we did, but it never seems to turn out exactly the way that we thought it would be. We can go through life spending time doubting and questioning every action that we take or we can do a quick assessment of how we could have improved what we did and then move on. If we're spending too much time worrying about the past, then we can't be present in the moment. Today, do something that gives you joy. For when you are happy, there is a better understanding that it's in the imperfections that you truly find yourself. Know that it's okay being who you are.

Sometimes there is no other way to describe things. This is a ball...

(It's funny how I think things go so wrong, but when I talk to someone else they have such a different perspective. I guess that's why it's great to have other people to bounce things off, otherwise I would constantly beat myself up over the littlest things.)

Letting Time Stand Still

Have you ever got the feeling that you've forgotten something and can't remember what it was? No matter how much we try to gather our thoughts, that information seems as though it's lost forever. In fact, it's like it was never there. Sometimes when we move to quickly in life, our mind can't grasp everything because we are moving a mile a minute. We've learned to multi task, although some of us don't do this as well as others. So what is the point of doing so much in what little time that we have, if we can't retain the joy of the present because we've already moved on. If we could let time stand still, embrace where we are at, release the stress of planning what we need to do next, we may be able to find a moment of peace. Today, find your solace by letting time stand still. For just a few minutes, stop and appreciate what is going on around you. Open your spirit to what you are experiencing and learn to see what you have been missing by rushing around. There are so many opportunities that await you, if you take the time to be still.

I think I'll just sit for awhile in the sun and watch the world go by...

(I often times have to remind myself to slow down, but it's challenging when my life includes not only myself but my family. I have been told that it's simply a matter of priorities. I think the person who told me that was single without kids. I guess it's about identifying what is the priority at the moment. Don't get me wrong, I still have time for deserts. Now that's always a priority.) 

Seeing For The First Time

Living a life of compassion doesn't mean being blind to the faults of others. In fact, it is seeing others as they truly are and still have the ability to care for their well being. This does not mean you have to agree with their actions or what they say, but be able to understand that they are, who their experiences have made them to be. To be able to have no judgement of others and accept others for who they are is to be compassionate. Today, listen to what others say to you and truly hear their message. People often say things, but mean something totally different. Listen attentively, so you can understand the deeper meaning of the words being delivered. Let your spirit guide you towards those who only have the best intentions towards your journey.

Would a friend really tell you the truth, if you asked them if they liked it...

(Sometimes our best friends and members of our family can suddenly turn on us, leaving us stunned by their actions and ords. Although it seems as if they've become someone different, that is hardly the case. Changes like these usually happen over time. For myself, I guess I know what's happening but hope for the best. So when I get kicked in the rear then why am I surprised. Lesson learned. I can't cast them out, but I can surely ignore them for awhile till I feel safe enough to approach them again. Sad but true.)

Be Careful What You Ask For

In our journey to become who we were meant to be, we often times ask for help. For most of us, it's our understanding that the universe gives us only what we can handle. But the dilemma occurs when what we think we can handle and what the universe gives us may be quite different. It's in our nature to create scenarios in our minds as to what kind of help we will be given and how we will then help others. But what we actually receive from the universe may leave us wondering what exactly did we ask for because it's not what we had in mind. To teach us patience, we may be put in frustrating situations. To teach us compassion, we may be presented with personal hardship so that we have empathy towards others. So as we go through our own challenges, know that somewhere in the midst of the chaos, the universe is still flowing through us, helping us to become who we were meant to be. Today, acknowledge and give thanks to everyone who is there to help and guide you on your path. It's true that you may not know exactly where you are headed, but know that you are where you are supposed to be. So in the future, be careful for what you ask for because you will definately get it.

If I could be anywhere, this is where I'd like to be...

(It's funny but I never really thought about the consequences of asking the universe to help me in my journey to help others. But receiving the gift to see the ugliness that lies within people is not something that I would have chosen. I think I need to be more specific next time or maybe there is a return policy on gifts.)



Taking A Stand

One of the most unpopular thing to do is to take a stand on a subject that everyone is against or doesn't care about. There may be only a few things in life that we truly believe in so strongly, that we feel the need to do something. But how many of us have the courage to actually take a stand and to take action. It's easy when we are quietly meditating to reflect upon what kind of person we are striving to be. It's very comforting to know that we have grown spiritually in our understanding of the universal energy. But after we leave the safety of our sanctuary, can we implement what we strive to be or is everything just theory. Every day, the universe is testing us on how much we have learned. Today, continue reflecting upon who you are and what kind of person you are striving to be. Choose an action word for the day, such as compassion, respect, forgiveness, or humility. See if you can put this word into action. Know that you have to walk the talk in order to have true understanding of who you are as a spiritual evolving being.  

 Our face reflects who we are...

(I am not very good at reading people. I wish I was better at it, so I wouldn't be so surprised when I find how inaccurate I was. Now that I think about it, I guess it's really about me. I am basing my assumptions on physical appearance when I should be trusting my instincts. I guess I need to work on this more.)

Compassion For All Living Beings

Living a life of compassion, includes being compassionate to all living beings. For most of us when we think of compassion, we think about our fellow man. But remember, some of the most helpless creatures are the wildlife that also need our help. We take nature for granted, sometimes never noticing the animals that co-exist along side of us. When we see a bird or cat on the side of the road, we assume that it has already passed on. Never thinking to check, we continue on with our busy lives. Take the time to stop and give aid to injured animals for they are an important part of the universal energy which flows in us all. Today, reflect upon the word compassion and what it means to you. Know that if you listen very carefully, you will hear your inner spirit guide you to all those who need your help. You may be surprised where you are led.

Sometimes we forget how beautiful wildlife can be...

(Tonight I took an injured bird to a bird shelter. It upset me knowing that the people who found it wanted to kill it. It made me so sad that they actually meant it. What kind of people would harm a bird that quite clearly was not ready to die? Have people become so jaded that they feel killing animals has no consequences? Where was their compassion this evening? I have to think about this a little more because I still don't understand.)

FindingThe Time

There are times in life, when we stop moving forward on our path. Although we have the best intentions to make every moment count, sometimes it just doesn't work out the way we want it to be. It's challenging to live a life of compassion, when our life feels like it's not ours. It's easy to lose track of where we are going when our minds are busy focusing on something else. That's why it's so important to find the time to quiet ourselves, for it is in the stillness that we are able to be at peace. Listening to our inner spirit is much easier when we're not multi-tasking. Today, take a look at how busy your life is. Are you living a life that brings you joy or are you just living to survive? Take the time to think about how life could be, if you lived a life doing what your heart desires.

When the food court gets really busy, do you notice how we seem to buy things we don't really want...

(I find myself getting frustrated when I lose focus on living the life I have committed to. It's so easy to forget when I get too busy. I'm not sure if I truly forget, I think it's more of getting better at integrating who I am with who I'd like to become. It's not easy living a life of compassion 24/7.)

 

Taking Each Day A Step At A Time

It would be wonderful, if we could say that we live a life of compassion every day. But there are challenges in living a life caring for others besides ourselves. It's human nature for us to do what we can to survive in a world that sometimes is not so accomodating to us. That would be acceptable if it were to end there, but some of us go beyond that and have little thought for others. In fact, our thoughts may focus more on our own well-being than someone elses. Living a life of compassion goes beyond family and friends. It is living a life caring for not only strangers that we've met, but those who we may never meet. Understanding that our actions have consequences that affect not only ourselves, but the world. What an awesome responsibility we have. Today, be aware of your interactions with others. Be quiet and listen to what those around you have to say. You'll be surprised what you can learn. If you find that someone needs your help, lend a hand. For you may be the only one who has heard this person's cry for help. Live a life of true compassion, a step at a time.

Take responsibility of your actions...

(Living a life of compassion is a lifetime goal I'm striving for, but it really is taking a step at a time. Some days I'm pretty good, mostly when I'm feeling well. But when I'm sick or upset then everything goes out the window. I guess what is important is the amount of time needed to get back to where you're supposed to be. I'm finding that I need less time to vent than I did before. Then all is well again with the world.

Living In The Present

Although we have heard that we should live in the present, this may be one of the most challenging things we can do. It's difficult to move our thoughts away from what has occurred in the past and what may occur in the future. We often times obsess about what we could have done better, the actions of others and missed opportunities. On the other hand, we may get caught up in our dreams about what would life be like if we change the course of our path. Either way, we spend an awful amount of time somewhere else. The present will soon be part of our past and will only be a vague memory of missed opportunities. We can only capture the true intent of the moment while it is happening. Know that our lives are built on miracles that are given to us in the present. It's up to us to use them wisely. Today, capture your miracles. If you are spending too much time worrying and being upset about something that has already happened and you aren't prepared to do something about it, then let it go. You only have a lifetime to create the life you were meant to lead.

These sea urchins depend on living in the moment for their survival...

(Sometimes it's difficult talking to someone who continously has issues with the past because in their minds, the story keeps getting worse. No matter what we say to show our support through this difficult time, it doesn't seem to work. Oh well, the lesson in this is to be still and just listen. Easier said than done.)

Honest Emotions

Living a life of compassion is difficult when we are not being honest with ourselves. It is when we hide our true feelings that we begin to hurt ourselves and others. How we feel is very important because it is one way that our inner spirit communicates with us. Having feelings of jealousy, anger, and resentment is part of being human, just like being in love, happy, or joyful. We need to give ourselves permission to human. It's when we hold these emotions in that it overflows through our words and actions. We may think no one is aware of how we are feeling, but that's when we become the most destructive. By being silent, we may damage not only our health, but our relationships. Know that we are living a life of compassion when we are honest with ourselves as well as with others. Today, reflect upon where you are. Be respectful and kind when speaking to others for they probably know how you are feeling anyway. Let yourself be guided by your inner spirit, for at this time it knows more than you.

No matter what you say, this fence is crooked...

(As I was writing this, I realized that I do the same thing. I try to push down my feelings of frustration and anger, especially with the people I care about because I don't want to hurt their feelings. But I don't hide things very well and it comes out in passive agressive ways. I think it hurts them more when I can't be honest with the way I feel. Now that I think about it, it's funny how we begin to reflect the emotions that others try to hide. Sometimes ignorance is bliss. Now that I know this, I have to say something for I'm not going to own another person's feelings, especially if they are making everyone else miserable. Wish me luck.)

Everyday Is A Miracle

Everyday is a miracle. Each morning when we awake, we have an opportunity to do things better. It doesn't matter how things went yesterday, today is a new day. Even when things don't seem to be going so well for ourselves and others, we can decide whether we want to strive ahead with determination or crawl back into bed. Sometimes it may be the latter, which is not a bad choice.That's what is so wonderful about the 24 hours we are given. We can do whatever we choose to do with the time. So use your time wisely and make the best of what we are given. Today, be kind to yourself. Take a moment to do something nice for yourself. Appreciate the opportunities you are being given to be the person you'd like to be. This is your day!

This is what awaits you this morning when you awake...

(It's starting off to be a very wet and blistery day. It's sometimes difficult to remember the beautiful sunrises when it's raining so hard. But I am determined to make it a wonderful and sunny day. Even the rain can't dampen my spirits.)

Standing Up For Who You Are

It's not difficult being comfortable with who we are, when we are loved and supported. The problem comes when we are challenged by others who don't know us very well. It's times like these that we become unsure of who we are and begin to question ourselves. Many of us may not have thought too deeply about who we are and what we believe in, until we are put into situations where we feel as if we're being forced to defend ourselves. It's at this point, we have to decide what we will do. Before we take action, breath and be still. Know that only because others may challenge us, we are still the same person who have friends and family that love and support us. Today, have the courage to be truly who you are. Be strong in your convictions and beliefs, for they have made you who you are today. Just remember that you have a purpose in this life, it's too bad not everyone can recognize it.

Why can't we celebrate the beauty within us...

(Although it's upsetting to know that there are those who feel that they have to challenge cultures that are different from their own, I understand what a life lesson this can be. It's a time to reflect upon what are my beliefs that I know to be true. Why are others so threatened of things different from themselves.)

Finding Our Way Through The Dark

Sometimes when our world is dark, it's difficult to find our way. Every step we take, leads us in the wrong direction. Although we are determined to continue our journey, just wondering if we are on the right path is stressful. At this moment, we can't see beyond our fears, for they bind us from moving forward. It's times like these, when we feel lost and helpless that we need to be still and ask the universe to lend us a light to show us our way through the dark. Be open to all who are here to support and love us for they are the light that will guide us to safety. Today, know that you will receive the help you need. Gather your courage and be strong for this to shall pass. Know that above the darkness, the sun always shines. 

Remember that friends are here to help us through the dark...

(It's hard to be so far away from loved ones when they need our help. Sometimes words are just not enough, when you want to give them a big hug. I know that won't make everything go away, but it sure would make me feel better. It was so much easier when they were younger.)

  

Being Open To A Lifetime Of Learning

It's amazing how many things there are in life that we still don't know much about. It's seems that no matter how old we get, there is always something new to learn every day. Although for some of us, it may be too difficult to step outside of our comfort zones, so we make up for our discomfort by becoming more knowledgeable about things that we're already familiar with. It's sometimes overwhelming thinking of all the things in life that is waiting to be discovered. Think of how our life could be if we opened ourselves to the possibilities. Know that in our own way, we are all life long students, where every day is a new learning experience. Today, be the inquisitive student you long to be. Explore new worlds and discover the joy that you are searching for. When you open your heart to the unknown, you may find what you didn't know you were looking for.

Sometimes you have to ask "What is it?"...

(Today, I went to get my muffler fixed, but I found out it's connected to an exhaust system. The mechanic showed me what the car looks like underneath. Who would have guessed all the things that are under a car. Well it wasn't my muffler, but a part that was connected to another part. That's when it dawned on me that I know what I know and what I don't know, well there is alot of that. I'm just happy that the guy knew alot about exhaust systems.)

The Struggle To Be Who We Are

Sometimes it's not easy being true to ourselves. There are challenges that we face that make it difficult for us to be comfortable in expressing who we are and how we feel. We often times conform to the wishes of others because we're not confident with who we are and may think that it's easier to follow the lead of others. But it is during this time of indecisiveness that we are the most vulnerable. As difficult as it is, we need to be brave and still, so we can not only hear our inner spirit but listen to the words of wisdom it shares with us. Deep in our hearts, we know the actions we are taking are compromising who we are and there will be consequences later on for the decisions we are making now. It is time to gather courage to get off the destructive path we have settled for and choose to live a life being true to who we are. Today, listen to your own voice. You are unique and deserve to live a life that you were meant to lead. Stop being a slave to society, friends and family, for there is a light within you that wants to shine.

If you know what you want, why let someone else decide what to buy..

(Sometimes because it's easier, I too let others make decisions for me. Usually it's a decision that I don't care what the outcome is or I'm not feeling well to think clearly. But now that I've written this blog, I realize that every decision I make is important for it reflects who I am. My presence is important as well as what I have to say. I just need to remember this.)

Being True To Ourself

It is only at the end of our life, do we truly reflect upon our actions. At that time, we see who we have become. It's as if our entire life was shot as a documentary that we now can view and critique. As an audience of one for this private showing, we can be alone in our thoughts. Knowing what we know now, would our actions have been the same. Probably not, but all of this is hindsight. We did what we did with what we thought was best at the time. Although we know to live our life with compassion and best intentions, life is not always so easy. It is sometimes an ongoing struggle to do what is best for ourselves and others. At the end of our life, only we know how well we did. Today, be the best person you can be. For the camera continues to roll, no matter what kind of day you have. Live each day knowing that you've been true to yourself.

It's not easy living a life that is right for you...

(Last night I attended a funeral for someone who was 60 yrs old. Although she was very young, she lived life to the fullest. By the testimonies that were given, she was a good friend to all. It was sad to have such a young spirit leave us, but she left a lasting legacy of how to live our life. By being true to ourselves every day, do no harm and to do things that bring us joy.)