Beyond Illusion

Step into the stillness of the present moment. As awareness expands, consciousness arises. In this space of enlightenment it becomes possible to see through the illusions of this world to the love that connects us. The healing power of the heart is absolutely needed now as we spin down the rabbit hole, mired in opinions and judgment.

Don’t give up on one another. Our collective patterns will continue to repeat until enough of us break free from the illusion to shift the energy into a new cycle of experience. The slow, often subtle changes that we go through (both personal and collective) are part of our spiritual journey.

First, work on seeing yourself with clarity and acceptance. This will improve the filters you use to interpret the world. With your depth of understanding you can demonstrate a different way of being, one that is compassionate, empowered and heart-centered.

Humankind suffers from a denial of spirit and the only thing that will create change is a shift of consciousness. As we re-discover the interconnection of all things, our choices will reflect wisdom and clarity. Honor this moment as sacred by celebrating your journey through illusion to the truth of your heart.

Consciousness

“You are an explorer, and you represent our species, and the greatest good you can do is to bring back a new idea, because our world is endangered by the absence of good ideas. Our world is in crisis because of the absence of consciousness.”
~Terence McKenna~

Collectively, we are plagued by a lack of vision. Many are lost in limiting patterns and, being afraid of the unknown, cling to the old in terror. Such is the human condition; however, when the soul is ready, expansion occurs.

Ultimately, we will all discover how to see past the illusions of this world and experience the love that connects all things. While others fight (both literally and figuratively)  about whose perception is accurate, the spiritual seeker quietly explores new realms and learns to view life differently.

Remove yourself from judgment, hatred or blame. As you explore the higher levels of consciousness it becomes easier to rise above the drama. There are likely areas of your life where you shine, and others where triggers still lurk. Bring these into the light of consciousness with humor and patience. View life as a journey of awakening and you will transform any experience into greater awareness.

The Gifts of Friendship

“The most beautiful discovery true friends make is that they can grow separately without growing apart.”
~Elisabeth Foley~

True friendship occurs when we have discovered wholeness within ourselves. Instead of looking for someone to complete us, we discover the joy of unity between two unique individuals who allow the winds of heaven to dance in between them.

The greatest gift you can give another is unconditional acceptance, allowing them to discover their inner truth in whatever way which is most appropriate for them. In doing so, we create an atmosphere in which transformation can occur.

Bring conscious presence into your relationships by giving those you love the space they need to grow and thrive. See your connection as a sacred, living expression of Divine love as you honor the perfection of the journey.

Whether we walk with these soul friends for a moment or for a lifetime, the love remains. Life after life we find one another, changing roles and scenarios, learning, teaching, laughing, challenging. Celebrate the deep connection and express gratitude for the role they play in your growth. There will come a day when we have a deeper understanding of the energy behind all of these experiences.

Vision Quest

Powerful forces of change are awakening within you. The desire for growth often prompts a journey of discovery into the unknown. Your spiritual evolution is incredibly personal and yet, it impacts the collective growth of all.

Momentary breaks from life’s distractions create a space of immense value. In the solitude of discovery you can face your shadows and overcome them, ultimately drawing new insights and awareness into your experience.

The purpose of the physical realm is to reflect your inner state of consciousness. Observe the flow of life, pay attention to patterns and messages and realize that you are ready to embark upon the next phase of your vision quest with the tools that you have cultivated.

Explore the mysteries of love. The initiation to higher levels of spiritual awareness often involves consciously facing your challenges. Choose to see each situation as an opportunity to rise above and stand in your truth. Honor this moment and experience as sacred, for within it lies the key to your awakening.

When you choose to take a risk and break free from the familiar patterns of your life, something beautiful emerges. Ready for a new adventure, know that your spirit will be renewed.

Awakening

“Your soul knows the geography of your destiny. Your soul alone has the map of your future, therefore you can trust this indirect, oblique side of yourself. If you do, it will take you where you need to go, but more important it will teach you a kindness of rhythm in your journey.”
~John O’Donohue~
Prior to birth we create a blueprint of what we hope to learn and experience during a lifetime. We build upon the lessons of past lives, we seek to explore new ideas and arrange meetings with others who will help us along the way. Ours is a free-will world; however, the soul will typically do its best to stick to the plan.
Trust the processes of your soul. Once we are born, our perception and knowledge become limited by design. Its helpful to remember that the choices were originally made with wisdom, love, support and expansive vision. In spite of how things sometimes appear, love is the driving force behind the growth that awaits.
Self-reflection is a powerful practice. Consider making list of all the challenges you have faced. Next to each one write one defining and empowering thing that you have learned from the experience.

The Mystery

Learn how to be at peace in the midst of the mystery and understand that your exploration into spirituality is unique. When playing in the realm of the infinite, explanations cease to have any meaning. Life-changing experiences are so layered in nuance that we often lessen their impact with our words. Simply choose to be fully present in each moment. Rather than describing your journey, embody its magic and wonder within your daily interactions.

The unknown holds infinite possibility. When we seek to understand every piece of the workings of the world around us, we bring limitation into the equation. In a universe filled with limitless potential, it’s important to remember that no matter how much we have learned, we are always at the beginning.

There is much more to life than meets the eye. Energy connects us all and we are constantly setting new things into motion – that is the joy and beauty of evolution. Nothing is stagnant, even when that appears to be the case.

If you choose to experience life with childlike wonder, something miraculous begins to unfold. It brings a little magic into your experience and you may discover the hidden language of the Divine.

Delay

“The journey between what you once were and who you are now becoming is where the dance of life really takes place.”
~Barbara DeAngelis~

There are times when we face obstacles in our path. These moments call upon us to view our challenges in a new way. Whether we pause, think differently or discover a new perspective, the delay transforms into a teacher. Typically, the ego gets impatient, prompting immediate action; however, the best approach often begins with mindfulness and observation.

The challenges, difficulties and delays that we encounter allow us to discover the strength we have within ourselves. Each time we rise above the stories of the mind and take conscious, decisive action, we release a layer of doubt. Over the course of a lifetime, the successes and breakthroughs we experience create new paradigms.

When things are easy we don’t search for answers, seek assistance or take the time to examine limiting beliefs. The gifts that life brings us are often wrapped in challenging situations. Knowing this can shift how you view obstacles – they are not impediments on your journey, they are the journey. As you awaken, you will experience less drama and handle challenges with insight and empowerment.

 

Here and Now

“The present moment is filled with joy and happiness. If you are attentive, you will see it.”

~Thich Nhat Hanh~

You can cultivate a powerful connection with life by going deeper into the present moment. Consciously release any distractions and travel inward. All the wisdom, peace and joy you seek is within you. It’s time that you come home to yourself.

You may consider creating or re-energizing your sacred space as part of the shift into the new year. Whether you have a meditative corner, a magic room or a zen garden, it’s life-affirming to have a space filled with your own peaceful energy.

I often pause on my gratitude walks to be inspired by the trees. Breathing deeply, I visualize my roots drinking from the energy of our beautiful planet and know that my innate way of being changes the world around me. This spiritual synthesis inspires unconditional love and acceptance.

Every experience provides an opportunity for enrichment. Live totally and intensely, so that each moment is filled with the sacred gifts of love, light and laughter. Rediscover magic and inspiration and celebrate the journey. The quiet grace of living with intention can be a powerful tool for expansion.

 

Present Moment Acceptance

“The true task of a spiritual life is not found in faraway places or unusual states of consciousness. It is here in the present.”

~Jack Kornfield~

Small acts of kindness can change the world around us. Just as consistent drops of water will eventually transform stone, loving actions leave a lasting impact. Practice reaching out in thoughts and behavior with kindness. When you choose to see the sacredness in all beings and in every situation, you become a channel for the love, light and laughter of the Divine.

The paradox of higher consciousness is this: By giving without asking, we attract all that we need. By putting others first, we wind up ahead. When we live without fear, life responds to us in miraculous ways.

Seek to break free from the limiting belief that life “should” be a certain way and instead, choose to embody complete acceptance of life as it is. Acceptance is not predicated on liking something; however, its presence opens the possibility of clarity and empowered movement.
Your journey is your own. Each of us is ultimately responsible for our own joy and the unique way that we choose to walk through the world.

Focusing Intention

“…Realize that your dream is fueled by the passion of the soul rather than the will of your ego and find a way to act courageously before the day ends.”
~Alberto Villoldo
~

Seek to expand your ideas, dreams and behavior. Honor the sacred path of your souls awakening by taking one conscious action today. What do you wish to create? What can you do to bring that energy into your experience? Small consistent actions add up to powerful transformation. You can choose to be courageous and dream a new world into being.
When we first begin to observe our thoughts and words, it can be surprising to discover how often they destabilize our precious balance. We activate the power of the soul by re-framing old limitations and focusing on the gift, the goal and the potential within the present moment.
Our role is to engage life from the level of soul rather than the level of mind. Our lives are epic journeys of spiritual maturation and courage is born of the willingness to walk forward with faith. Trust your inner wisdom and know that you are an empowered participant in the collective awakening of the planet.