Stand in Courage

“In these times where it has seemed dark indeed
where integrity appears solely buried in legend and lore,
it is an opportunity in contrast to the shadows,
to create miracles…
by choosing first courage,
then diligence,
standing,
opening our mouth
and speaking the truth that in rare moments,
may ignite the light.”
~Tom Althouse~

To live an authentic life is to be deeply committed to the truth of who you are. There will be moments when you shine with inspiration and conviction, and others when you may miss the mark; however, it is all part of the process of transformation. Reading and study will only get you so far. It’s powerful to watch ideas as they come to life in the world around you. You are far stronger than you know.

Listen deeply to the inner wisdom of your soul. Each of us has a unique purpose and while you might find motivation and insight through others’ works, the message slightly transforms when processed through your filter of interpretation and again as you put new ideas and energy into motion.

Be the change you wish to see. Honor your purpose as sacred and embrace the continuity of your spiritual evolution. Beautiful facets of your soul still await discovery.

The Power of Acceptance

“Accept – then act. Whatever the present moment contains, accept it as if you had chosen it. Always work with it not against it… this will miraculously transform your whole life.”   
~Eckhart Tolle~   

Life is constantly unfolding in unexpected ways. The human condition often prompts a response filled with resistance. We have plans and goals and tend to fight against anything that appears to block the path; however, it’s the journey that is important, not the destination. Acceptance and awareness walk hand in hand, opening doors of new perception and sparking creativity. Honor the sacredness of the present moment through the realization that everything unfolds in the way that is most beneficial for all involved.

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How we respond to the events of our lives dictates how much joy we are willing to experience. Begin by mastering your state of consciousness – consistently observe yourself with kindness, face your fears, trust the processes of your growth and know that everything has a purpose on this sacred journey of yours.
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Miracles happen with you create space and allow the Divine to surprise you. New people, changes in perception and conscious interactions can alter your life in amazing ways. As we incorporate the lessons, we can flow with changes with incredible grace and faith knowing that all will unfold perfectly.

Sharing Love

 
“If you withhold love as a form of punishment, who is being punished?”
~Donald L. Hicks~

Love is giving – giving based in kindness, freedom and compassion without expectation.

Judgment is a by-product of the ego. Condemning others, whether through “righteous anger” or an internal dialogue, creates blockages between people. The only way to break through the lower levels of unconsciousness is to become more conscious yourself. In that manner, your life will be your message.

Love transforms any situation into a space of pure potential. Like water eroding rock, the process may take some time, but the results are permanent. Each loving thought, word or act of kindness plants a seed of awakening. These seeds are nourished by our consistent mindful approach and may thrive in ways you’ve never imagined. Whether you’re there to witness the transformation or not, never doubt the power of love.

Seek to honor all paths as sacred. Each journey is unique, yet all are on the same path of awakening. One never knows what will trigger a breakthrough; therefore, it’s powerful to act as though this moment is the one that will open doors to new levels of understanding… and remember that love is the key.

Presence in Silence

“Silence is not the absence of something but the presence of everything.”
~Gorden Hempton~
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If you can’t find the words to explain your beliefs, you’re on the right path. We can use words as signposts, as pointers that lead us in the right direction; however, by their very nature, words are limiting. Have you ever had a dream, loved a novel, been moved by music and found the experience diminished when trying to describe it to another? That’s because the awakening you feel is bigger than mere words can express.
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When you experience something so transformative and enlightening, let it speak through the peaceful silences of your highest nature. When you allow your life to be your message, the meaning is understood by those who bear witness your authentic energy in motion.
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These are the gifts we give the world. Once we know that enlightenment can’t be explained, possessed or achieved, we can then begin the delicate operation of teaching by example. Seek only to live your own truth. When you bring the best version of yourself to the present moment, the future will take care of itself.

Constructive Action

The challenges that we face bring us into greater awareness. As one navigates disruption, it’s helpful to remember that your soul has agreed to participate for a specific purpose such as a karmic contract, personal test/initiation, the opportunity to see a new facet of growth in motion, teaching by example or facilitating a significant pivot in the life path.

When things feel overwhelming, step into the power of the present moment and keep things simple. Is the action you are taking constructive or restrictive? Feeding energy into the challenge by talking about it to those who are not in a position to change or help is an example of being stuck in a pattern. Speaking about possible solutions and taking baby steps toward them is constructive.

Nothing is more important than your state of consciousness in this moment. Part of your soul work is to share your gifts with the world. No matter where you reside on the journey of awakening, there is always someone coming along behind who can learn from your experiences and inspiration. You are right where you need to be – embrace your unique talents and be gentle with yourself. This is the moment of transformation.

Just Be

“Don’t be so hard on yourself
‘Cause you can’t change the world
You can’t change the world alone
Just be”

~Tommy Shaw~

Acceptance is the pathway to peace. When challenges unfold and the unexpected enters, fear often arises. This is the moment to turn inward and access your true divine nature. You can’t fix the world alone, but you can bring love and grace to whatever is in front of you in this moment.

Should you need to take action or make decisions, go inward first. Check your state of consciousness without resistance or criticism. Find your way into the power the present moment. This brief, mindful interlude of stillness brings empowerment to all that you do. In times of crisis, change, illness, or events beyond your control, realize that you have the ability to face whatever arises with a calm heart and mind.

Whatever unfolds in your experience is exactly what is needed for your spiritual growth. Life is filled with contrast and it is there we discover strength, ingenuity, the ability to forgive, compassion and tenacity of spirit. Your Presence is transformative. Love can be expressed in many, many ways and we can discover them together.

The Dance of Change

“Don’t let your mind stop you from having a good time.”
~Jason Mraz~

Could it be that the weight of all your beliefs, memories and old expectations holds you back from the freedom that your soul requires? It’s healthy to consciously explore the nuances of your unique path. Appreciate the support you have, the joy you create and the infinite possibilities that await discovery.

Release everything that blocks you from experiencing love, light and laughter. The human experience is filled with death and life, endings and beginnings, pivots in our planned direction, surprises and coincidences that spice up the dance of being. We cannot fully experience the present moment and all that is has to offer unless we are unencumbered by thought. Free yourself to accept the gifts of the Divine – undoubtedly, they are outside of the known parameters of your expectation.

You stand at the gateway of transformation. Plant seeds of change in the world by focusing on your own state of consciousness. Take the time to create a sense of gratitude, grace, peace and balance so that you are at ease in the present moment. Your loving presence will teach others that alternative perceptions and responses are available.

Serenity Now!

“There’s no value in digging shallow wells in a hundred places. Decide on one place and dig deep. Even if you encounter a rock, use dynamite and keep going down. If you leave that to dig another well, all the first effort is wasted and there is no proof you won’t hit rock again.”
~Sri S. Satchidananda, The Yoga Sutras of Pantanjali~
All philosophies and spiritual concepts can lead to an expansion in consciousness; however, consistency is required. It’s not enough to parrot the words of a teacher, practice or belief system. We must delve deeply into that which ignites the soul. Transformation is demonstrated by how we choose to walk in the world.
When you have created a firm foundation, you’ll discover that it’s easier to turn into any challenges that arise. Your spirit seeks opportunities to strengthen the gifts you have discovered and it’s powerful to see them in motion. Be the observer, pay attention to the mechanisms of the ego, and continue to use your tools.
Your life is your practice. Act with integrity, do your best and accept what is. With hindsight and self-reflection, you may discover greater depths and insight regarding your journey and the perfection of your soul.

Expansion Through Contrast

It is love that allows us to expand. It transforms our vision and interpretation of experience. It awakens the ability to heal or to hold space for another. When faced with hatred or fear, love can shine through inspiring hope in its wake. The power of connection is often learned through contrast. It doesn’t matter what you believe, or from where you receive inspiration. All that matters is your level of consciousness in this moment.

The human condition is a plethora of contradiction. Our multi-faceted experiences keep the journey full of surprises and possibility. No matter what one seeks to experience, they have the ability to create it. It often seems that things are getting both worse and better; however, I would imagine that every culture and era has felt the same. When I read ancient writings, they seem to speak directly to our current challenges. Others have left behind gifts of wisdom in their words, art, music and oral traditions.

Always, some actively seek enlightenment while others are completely resistant to change. The drama of the world continues with billions of unique stories playing out simultaneously and the overload of information is sometimes overwhelming. With so many in pain, how can we immerse ourselves in love? That is the paradox of experience. If you seek to expand consciousness, bring love to all that you do. Create a filter through which you can interpret what you see and let that perception guide your actions. With love, we can rise above.

Love’s Gifts

Love, given freely, is extraordinarily powerful. It transforms both the giver and the receiver. It awakens desire that is beyond the ego-driven self and weaves the threads that bind us together. These inter-connective threads are simultaneously both our weakness and our strength. What harms one, harms all. What heals one, heals all.

When you consider how your dreams, words and actions impact the whole, it transforms your perception of self-interest. The awakened soul views life through the filters of expanded consciousness and contemplates the whole when seeking right action.

Love must be included in all that we do. Communication without love is condescending. Action without love is destructive. Listening without love is selfish. Work without love is drudgery. Conversely, love transforms service into joy, kindness into healthy expression and enthusiasm into artistic expression.

Your purpose is to love. When you choose to live with an open heart, you create space in which transformation can occur. Sparks of joy and inspiration shine like beacons in the darkness. Whether recognized or unrecognized, energy flows along the threads that bind us together. Never doubt the impact you have on those around you. Love seeks to express itself through you.