When someone is lost in dysfunction, they are completely unaware of their ability to connect to the Divine. Unconsciously, they replenish themselves by absorbing energy from the people around them.

This energy exchange can happen in a few ways but primarily it comes from strong reactions. Whether in the form of anger or arguments, frustration or egoic response, the action is the same. Your aura grows large (you might even feel a rush of energy at this point) and flows outward toward the other person. They absorb it and walk away from the interaction feeling much better… leaving you with the need to process and recover your balance.

You can stop this unhealthy flow through neutrality, genuine compassion or unconditional love. For most people, neutrality is the easiest place to get to quickly. When you choose not to respond or feed the energy in any way, you are protecting yourself. The people may (unknowingly) feel thwarted and try another angle, but if you can remain neutral and/or compassionate, eventually they will either move on to deal with someone more reactive or learn something from the interaction.

Choose to abstain from co-dependent energetic behavior. This gift of love allows each person to process through their own lessons and challenges while teaching you the art of compassionate detachment. When you do choose to consciously engage, you become a channel through which pure energy of the Divine can flow. This is invigorating rather than draining – uplifting and limitless – and a healthier way to assist one another on the journey.

Empowerment is cultivated by viewing all aspects of life as a spiritual journey directed by our higher consciousness. It’s amazing to discover the power of our thoughts and intentions as we witness the pieces of our unique puzzle fall into place. This is especially joyful when we make soul connections which uplift our spirits or create space in which transformation can occur.

But what about the challenges we manifest… the karmic situations which require us to expand our vision, the accidents that shift our plans or the unfolding of events which frustrate us until we learn the art of acceptance and how to go with the flow? These too are of our own design. The ego will tend to want to go into a “why me?” mode, complain, share the burden, blame or give up in an emotional whirlwind of thought and story; however, as powerful co-creators of our experience, we must stop and take full responsibility for all things.

You are never a helpless victim of fate. When accidents occur, there are a few things you can ask yourself:

• Am I angry about anything?
• Why am I trying to get my own attention?
• Do I feel the need to be punished?
• Do I need attention and nurturing?
• Have I taken on so much responsibility that I need a rest?
• What am I trying to avoid?
• What is my soul looking to accomplish?

Once the dust settles and the emotions become more neutral, take some time to self assess. As a conscious, masterful soul in the process of awakening you have the advantage of knowing that all things work toward your highest good. Listen to the messages you receive and see how quickly you can move back into a state of empowerment.

Everything you experience, whether easy or challenging, joyful or painful, is a stepping stone to higher consciousness.

Endlessly seeking to be perfect reaffirms the limiting perception that we are somehow less than perfect. High ideals can be a distraction on the Path of Transformation. When we seek instead to raise our vibration, thus providing ourselves a expanded perception and broader viewpoint, we discover additional ways to be in the world and have a greater chance of choosing attitudes and responses that align us with joy.

Can you simply observe yourself and others without judgment or analyzing? There is great beauty in recognizing the incredible potential that is inherent in this moment. Imperfection is perfect. The unfolding journey is perfect. The act of learning and awakening is the goal. How can we do anything else but cheer one another on?

Weave the intricate tapestry of your future by expanding yourself in love today. You will draw in that which is needed for your souls growth… recognizing the opportunities, teachers, circumstances and laughter that will light your way. Consciousness requires nothing less than a constant state of awareness and intention. Be willing to receive and you’ll discover that your joy is a magnet.

We humans have limited perception by divine design. The unknowable aspects of life allow us to cultivate the art of surrender. At some point, we discover that things actually flow better when we do not attempt to control the outside world. Instead, we learn to place our focus on the inner and listen to the language of the soul.

The higher your state of consciousness, the easier life flows. If you are immersed in struggle, see if you can take a step back from the situation and allow it to be what it is. Consciously choose to release all attachment and become the observer. This process opens the doors of perception and sets you free from any self-made prisons.

Don’t wait for your life to fall into place before you choose to be joyful. Instead, choose to be joyful now and life will reflect your joy to you in beautiful and surprising ways.

Often, when you begin to make substantial progress in your own spiritual growth, you’ll find that you encounter resistance from the people around you. It may be surprising to witness push-back from those who will benefit the most from your increasing awareness; however, it’s also the best form of proof of your expanding consciousness.

As we change, the world around us must change. The resistance you experience serves two purposes: it allows you to continue cultivating the attributes of a spiritual, evolving person and demonstrates the impact your growth is having on those around you.

In relationships, the person of lower consciousness actually has the most difficulty. As one becomes more empowered and present, they choose not to engage in drama as they may have in the past. The lack of energy exchange is very frustrating for those still engaged in psychic vampirism.

It’s important to cultivate compassion and gentleness. You can be kind when others are caught in the grip of drama – kind enough not to engage. Any decisions will then be based in love. Resistance, in spite of how it appears, is also an act of love that contributes to your growth.