“Letting go of what is no longer needed makes room for what is fresh and new.” - Today’s Daily Word, July 7, 2010
What do I no longer need in my life? Certain types of work projects? Clients? Friendships?
How about beliefs? After all, my thoughts and beliefs create my life.
These past several days have been a challenge for me, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Letting go of attachments in all forms simplifies my life and the clutter in my brain. And no matter the chaos, the confusion, or the no longer needed thing in my life still hanging out, I must remember always -
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” - Psalm 46:1 (KJV). When I really contemplate the meaning of this statement, I am in awe. I rest in faith and peace.
God IS. I must acknowledge the One Power and One Presence, and affirm it daily. Then I know that all is well despite appearances.
Dear God;
As I wake up to what is needed and what is not, I know You are my refuge, and my strength comes through You. Show me Your Will, show me Your Way. Today I make room for what is fresh and new, knowing You are ever present and all is well.
Showing posts with label spiritual. Show all posts
Showing posts with label spiritual. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Change
“... Only God knows what each of us needs to experience and learn. If we insist on seeing things happen our way, we’re not trusting God’s plan for us. A loving God will see that our needs are supplied without instructions from us.” - In God’s Care, June 19
After 582 daily posts - that’s more than 1½ years - I did not blog yesterday... or the day before. And, that’s okay. In fact, I see that it’s time to make a change, to move on. A new chapter has started in my spiritual life. I no longer need this portion of my spiritual practice and can perhaps make an opening for something new. I can trust God to show me other ways to feel Its Presence each day, each moment.
I started writing this blog November 13, 2008 to jumpstart my daily spiritual practice which had been waning. Guidance said it was a way to help me be in fit spiritual condition and to be of service to others. And it has been that - and more.
I’ve enjoyed writing regularly and developing a style. It’s been a journal at times of events that I was able to easily share with people in my life by sending them a link to a particular daily post. It’s been a way to publicly acknowledge and express gratitude for the people and lessons in my life. It’s been a commitment I’ve kept, showing me my perseverance. On and on the gifts go.
I will continue blogging, less than by routine and more by intuition and inspiration. After all, that is more and more of how I’m living my life these days. It will be a reflection of that change.
And who knows, I might land up blogging everyday as Spirit calls to me. In any case, I am confident and I trust that God will supply me with what I need to stay connected to the Beloved Presence and with whatever I need to experience, learn, and wake up.
After 582 daily posts - that’s more than 1½ years - I did not blog yesterday... or the day before. And, that’s okay. In fact, I see that it’s time to make a change, to move on. A new chapter has started in my spiritual life. I no longer need this portion of my spiritual practice and can perhaps make an opening for something new. I can trust God to show me other ways to feel Its Presence each day, each moment.
I started writing this blog November 13, 2008 to jumpstart my daily spiritual practice which had been waning. Guidance said it was a way to help me be in fit spiritual condition and to be of service to others. And it has been that - and more.
I’ve enjoyed writing regularly and developing a style. It’s been a journal at times of events that I was able to easily share with people in my life by sending them a link to a particular daily post. It’s been a way to publicly acknowledge and express gratitude for the people and lessons in my life. It’s been a commitment I’ve kept, showing me my perseverance. On and on the gifts go.
I will continue blogging, less than by routine and more by intuition and inspiration. After all, that is more and more of how I’m living my life these days. It will be a reflection of that change.
And who knows, I might land up blogging everyday as Spirit calls to me. In any case, I am confident and I trust that God will supply me with what I need to stay connected to the Beloved Presence and with whatever I need to experience, learn, and wake up.
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Basketball and Spirit
John Wooden, college basketball’s most successful coach, died yesterday at age 99. Wooden retired in 1975 and ultimately became viewed as a kind of sage for both basketball and life, a symbol of both excellence and simpler times.
I became aware of him when I joined CHARACTER COUNTS! while living in Santa Fe 10+ years ago. I was impressed with this public personality when I read: Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
Here’s John Wooden's Seven Point Creed, a message given to him by his father upon his graduation from grammar school, which he carried around with him and lived by:
• Be true to yourself.
• Make each day your masterpiece.
• Help others.
• Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
• Make friendship a fine art.
• Build a shelter against a rainy day.
• Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.
[Compiled from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wooden and The New York Times.]
Here is a person who was living his faith to the best of his ability, a wonderful role model especially for the young adults he coached. It seems to me that he was a spiritual person who impacted many, not just due to his sports knowledge and talent, but by being an emissary for God.
Here’s a few more quotes attributed to John Wooden, which impart (to me) his spirituality:
“Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”
“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.”
“Material possessions, winning scores, and great reputations are meaningless in the eyes of the Lord, because He knows what we really are and that is all that matters.”
Dear Spirit-
Thank You for the people who point to You by the way they live their life.
I became aware of him when I joined CHARACTER COUNTS! while living in Santa Fe 10+ years ago. I was impressed with this public personality when I read: Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
Here’s John Wooden's Seven Point Creed, a message given to him by his father upon his graduation from grammar school, which he carried around with him and lived by:
• Be true to yourself.
• Make each day your masterpiece.
• Help others.
• Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
• Make friendship a fine art.
• Build a shelter against a rainy day.
• Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.
[Compiled from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Wooden and The New York Times.]
Here is a person who was living his faith to the best of his ability, a wonderful role model especially for the young adults he coached. It seems to me that he was a spiritual person who impacted many, not just due to his sports knowledge and talent, but by being an emissary for God.
Here’s a few more quotes attributed to John Wooden, which impart (to me) his spirituality:
“Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”
“Success comes from knowing that you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming.”
“Material possessions, winning scores, and great reputations are meaningless in the eyes of the Lord, because He knows what we really are and that is all that matters.”
Dear Spirit-
Thank You for the people who point to You by the way they live their life.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Prison and God
My obsession was all-powerful. Summoning all my resources, I could not dislodge it. Then three simple words did the trick: “Came to believe.” - Anonymous
We were prisoners of our obsessions. No more. Three words, “came to believe,” were the key that unlocked the gates of our personal prison.
When we rely on this power, wonderful and unexplainable things happen. Once this power unlocks the prison gates, anything is possible.
- In God’s Care, June 1
There are many ways we can be imprisoned.
One of my spiritual teachers began his spiritual awakening 30+ years ago while incarcerated. He’d run away from home when he was 13, then landed up in reform schools, jails, and the state penitentiary. This last stop was for a crime he’d not committed, but his hope of ever being released was dismal. Then he had a spiritual experience while lying in his bunk one day. It changed his attitude toward his defense lawyer and from there, miracles started happening. He was set free and his life has been about waking up and service ever since.
With all this teacher went through, he is fond of saying that he prefers his prison to have bars.
Yep, it certainly is easier when I can concretely see how I limit myself. When I was in the throes of my eating addiction, I finally was able to see that it was a symptom of something deeper. When I became open to asking for help, it was the beginning of the process of my release from prison.
When this devout atheist heard that she could choose her own conception of God, then “came to believe,” the key was turned and my prison door unlocked. Since then, relying on a Power greater than myself, I’ve been stepping out more and more from the prison of the ego, something I cannot always see as clearly has the bars of a prison cell, but surely quite as dismal.
Cultivating a close relationship with Spirit, my life has been filled with miracle upon miracle, and my soul has rejoiced. Coming to believe was the answer to my prison release and the beginning of my waking up to The Presence and this new earth.
We were prisoners of our obsessions. No more. Three words, “came to believe,” were the key that unlocked the gates of our personal prison.
When we rely on this power, wonderful and unexplainable things happen. Once this power unlocks the prison gates, anything is possible.
- In God’s Care, June 1
There are many ways we can be imprisoned.
One of my spiritual teachers began his spiritual awakening 30+ years ago while incarcerated. He’d run away from home when he was 13, then landed up in reform schools, jails, and the state penitentiary. This last stop was for a crime he’d not committed, but his hope of ever being released was dismal. Then he had a spiritual experience while lying in his bunk one day. It changed his attitude toward his defense lawyer and from there, miracles started happening. He was set free and his life has been about waking up and service ever since.
With all this teacher went through, he is fond of saying that he prefers his prison to have bars.
Yep, it certainly is easier when I can concretely see how I limit myself. When I was in the throes of my eating addiction, I finally was able to see that it was a symptom of something deeper. When I became open to asking for help, it was the beginning of the process of my release from prison.
When this devout atheist heard that she could choose her own conception of God, then “came to believe,” the key was turned and my prison door unlocked. Since then, relying on a Power greater than myself, I’ve been stepping out more and more from the prison of the ego, something I cannot always see as clearly has the bars of a prison cell, but surely quite as dismal.
Cultivating a close relationship with Spirit, my life has been filled with miracle upon miracle, and my soul has rejoiced. Coming to believe was the answer to my prison release and the beginning of my waking up to The Presence and this new earth.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remembrance
Today’s Daily Word acknowledges Memorial Day, a U.S. holiday. But, interestingly, it goes beyond remembering the men and women who gave their lives in our nation’s service. Here it is in its entirety:
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remember
I lovingly remember others.
Remembering those who have given their lives in service, I reflect upon their sacrifice. I learn from the lessons they taught and from their accomplishments. I also remember the people who have made a meaningful contribution in my life. Because of them I have learned to live more fully.
Just as I build upon the acts and achievements of those who have gone before me, others may build upon my life's example. As I remember others today, others may remember me in the future.
Today I take a few moments to appreciate those who taught me by example, to honor those who showed me the way. Their love and their willingness have changed my life for the better, and I am grateful.
When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God. - Philemon 1:4
It’s interesting that during this morning’s quiet time I listened to a meditative, subliminal CD about forgiveness and peace of mind. Several people from the past came into my consciousness. They were folks who I’d been close to for many years but am no longer in touch with. While we’ve chosen to not be in one another’s lives these days, I remember them with love for making my life richer. They helped me become who I am today. I have much gratitude for them - their love, their patience, their wisdom.
There are so many others I remember and for whom I am grateful: School teachers, relatives, employers, co-workers, those who came before me in the 12 Step program, other spiritual mentors, and of course, friends and my beloved life partner and husband, Roger Wyer. All have blessed me with their presence in my life - even if sometimes I hadn’t a clue!
Thank You, Spirit, for all those I’ve met on this journey called Life. Bless them, bless them, bless them.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Remember
I lovingly remember others.
Remembering those who have given their lives in service, I reflect upon their sacrifice. I learn from the lessons they taught and from their accomplishments. I also remember the people who have made a meaningful contribution in my life. Because of them I have learned to live more fully.
Just as I build upon the acts and achievements of those who have gone before me, others may build upon my life's example. As I remember others today, others may remember me in the future.
Today I take a few moments to appreciate those who taught me by example, to honor those who showed me the way. Their love and their willingness have changed my life for the better, and I am grateful.
When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God. - Philemon 1:4
It’s interesting that during this morning’s quiet time I listened to a meditative, subliminal CD about forgiveness and peace of mind. Several people from the past came into my consciousness. They were folks who I’d been close to for many years but am no longer in touch with. While we’ve chosen to not be in one another’s lives these days, I remember them with love for making my life richer. They helped me become who I am today. I have much gratitude for them - their love, their patience, their wisdom.
There are so many others I remember and for whom I am grateful: School teachers, relatives, employers, co-workers, those who came before me in the 12 Step program, other spiritual mentors, and of course, friends and my beloved life partner and husband, Roger Wyer. All have blessed me with their presence in my life - even if sometimes I hadn’t a clue!
Thank You, Spirit, for all those I’ve met on this journey called Life. Bless them, bless them, bless them.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Unconditional Love
This morning is to be my first as a volunteer at the Humane Society of Sedona. I am so looking forward to hanging out with the doggies (mostly), walking them and socializing with them.
I’ve always done service work to help people: 12 Step members, nursing home residents, children in inner city schools. Hence this is a big switch, especially since I’ve not had a dog in my household since I was a child many moons ago and so consider myself inexperienced.
So what prompted this? After all, I still plan to find a service position helping humans... Well, of late I have found my heart cracked so wide open to animals, especially pooches, and a yearning to be around them and help them.
I suppose this was preceded by my immersion back into increased spiritual work on my part once we left our world in Gilbert, AZ and got started in our new life in Sedona. Since then my heart has been opening and opening as I surround myself with the love and compassion of like-minded travelers waking up to a new earth and Spirit.
God is unconditional love, always seeking to give to His children. And dogs are unconditional love too. It was not lost on me when someone pointed out years ago that the word “dog” is “God” spelled backwards. God has many emissaries.
So I’m looking forward to this novel opportunity of spending more time with God, in the form of canines, exchanging love and service, giving and receiving.
I’ve always done service work to help people: 12 Step members, nursing home residents, children in inner city schools. Hence this is a big switch, especially since I’ve not had a dog in my household since I was a child many moons ago and so consider myself inexperienced.
So what prompted this? After all, I still plan to find a service position helping humans... Well, of late I have found my heart cracked so wide open to animals, especially pooches, and a yearning to be around them and help them.
I suppose this was preceded by my immersion back into increased spiritual work on my part once we left our world in Gilbert, AZ and got started in our new life in Sedona. Since then my heart has been opening and opening as I surround myself with the love and compassion of like-minded travelers waking up to a new earth and Spirit.
God is unconditional love, always seeking to give to His children. And dogs are unconditional love too. It was not lost on me when someone pointed out years ago that the word “dog” is “God” spelled backwards. God has many emissaries.
So I’m looking forward to this novel opportunity of spending more time with God, in the form of canines, exchanging love and service, giving and receiving.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Recipe
Yesterday was another, rich, abundant day.
Reviewing it - and others - it becomes clear what ingredients are needed for me to make a fulfilling day. It is a very rich recipe for a joyful life.
- Start the day in quiet time with Spirit
- Read inspirational literature in the morning
- Blog about spirituality
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our morning ‘coffee vacation’
- Help others in computer-related projects
- Be open to service opportunities in the moment
- Examine my behaviors, thoughts, and feelings
- Connect with Spirit throughout the course of the day
- Take care of my physical and mental bodies
- Listen to music
- Shine my light wherever I am, whoever I am with
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our afternoon ‘coffee vacation’
- Breathe deeply
- Take a walk
- Take time to pause
- Spend time with my Unity of Sedona family either in a seminar, at choir rehearsal, or otherwise
- Read spiritual literature in the evening
- Go to bed at night, snuggling up to Rog and thanking God for all the blessings and abundance in my life.
Reviewing it - and others - it becomes clear what ingredients are needed for me to make a fulfilling day. It is a very rich recipe for a joyful life.
- Start the day in quiet time with Spirit
- Read inspirational literature in the morning
- Blog about spirituality
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our morning ‘coffee vacation’
- Help others in computer-related projects
- Be open to service opportunities in the moment
- Examine my behaviors, thoughts, and feelings
- Connect with Spirit throughout the course of the day
- Take care of my physical and mental bodies
- Listen to music
- Shine my light wherever I am, whoever I am with
- Meet with Rog for prayer followed by our afternoon ‘coffee vacation’
- Breathe deeply
- Take a walk
- Take time to pause
- Spend time with my Unity of Sedona family either in a seminar, at choir rehearsal, or otherwise
- Read spiritual literature in the evening
- Go to bed at night, snuggling up to Rog and thanking God for all the blessings and abundance in my life.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Whose Plan?
I’ve been pushing myself to meet deadlines, participate in spiritually-focused events, attend to ADL’s (activities of daily living), and fulfill other commitments. And, I’m beat. It’s not really fun pushing, pushing, pushing. I just can’t do it all... something has to give... I need to let go.
Yes, I’m exhausted physically, and beat emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. I need to let go of controlling finances, time, people... As if I could really control anything or anyone!
So I surrender to that Divine Wisdom that knows all is in perfect order... to the Source that created me happy, joyous, and free - not tied to deadlines and obligations.
In cramming and striving to meet deadlines, I’m cramming The Presence too. It’s difficult to feel peace and joy when my entire being feels contracted and squished. So I pause, breathe, and give my trust to Spirit. I release my concerns to God and I am at peace.
All I have is this moment... Despite my planning and scheduling, when it comes down to it, all I have is Now. I can sketch in the pieces of my life, but I must remain flexible and open to the idea that things don’t unfold in Joyce’s time. I must surrender.
Dear Beloved, Holy Presence-
Thank You, thank You, thank You for the pause and the breath that refresh me to then move on to carry out Your plan.
Yes, I’m exhausted physically, and beat emotionally, spiritually, and mentally. I need to let go of controlling finances, time, people... As if I could really control anything or anyone!
So I surrender to that Divine Wisdom that knows all is in perfect order... to the Source that created me happy, joyous, and free - not tied to deadlines and obligations.
In cramming and striving to meet deadlines, I’m cramming The Presence too. It’s difficult to feel peace and joy when my entire being feels contracted and squished. So I pause, breathe, and give my trust to Spirit. I release my concerns to God and I am at peace.
All I have is this moment... Despite my planning and scheduling, when it comes down to it, all I have is Now. I can sketch in the pieces of my life, but I must remain flexible and open to the idea that things don’t unfold in Joyce’s time. I must surrender.
Dear Beloved, Holy Presence-
Thank You, thank You, thank You for the pause and the breath that refresh me to then move on to carry out Your plan.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Seeing
“What we see depends mainly on what we look for.” - John Lubbock
I have a client with whom I work with 20 hours per week, so I’m familiar with the look of her office. One day she asked for my interior decorating advice regarding an oval area rug she planned to buy for a main walk-through section of the office. Armed with samples, we discussed which color scheme would best work with the current carpet, and I also brought up my concern about how the thickness of the rug might be a tripping hazard. Then she proceeded to order her choice online, and that’s the last I thought of it.
The following week I was in my client’s office and it wasn’t until I’d walked through the main area three times that I realized the area rug had been delivered and placed on the carpet! I simply hadn’t seen it and I certainly hadn’t tripped over it.
It’s pretty phenomenal to me that something can be right in my face and I don’t see it. Have you ever looked all over the house for your keys (substitute anything else), only to find them on the kitchen counter next to the coffee mug you’d just been drinking out of?
It sure makes me wonder what else I’m not seeing, minor things and the not-so-minor. And then there’s the idea that this world is an illusion and I’m making it up anyway... so why can’t I ‘make up’ the keys, the cash, the love, the faith, etc.?
If I can’t see what is theoretically on the physical plane and I believe should be easy to see, then how can I ‘see’ what is in the other realms? And, if I’m making it all up anyway, why aren’t I making up and communicating with the unseen spiritual beings whom I’ve been yearning to communicate with?
Intention. Yes, again, I go about setting intentions and being awake. With faithful expectancy and joy, I see what I am looking for, I live the life and experience the abundance that is mine by Divine Right. I stay alert to my good and to God’s Grace.
I have a client with whom I work with 20 hours per week, so I’m familiar with the look of her office. One day she asked for my interior decorating advice regarding an oval area rug she planned to buy for a main walk-through section of the office. Armed with samples, we discussed which color scheme would best work with the current carpet, and I also brought up my concern about how the thickness of the rug might be a tripping hazard. Then she proceeded to order her choice online, and that’s the last I thought of it.
The following week I was in my client’s office and it wasn’t until I’d walked through the main area three times that I realized the area rug had been delivered and placed on the carpet! I simply hadn’t seen it and I certainly hadn’t tripped over it.
It’s pretty phenomenal to me that something can be right in my face and I don’t see it. Have you ever looked all over the house for your keys (substitute anything else), only to find them on the kitchen counter next to the coffee mug you’d just been drinking out of?
It sure makes me wonder what else I’m not seeing, minor things and the not-so-minor. And then there’s the idea that this world is an illusion and I’m making it up anyway... so why can’t I ‘make up’ the keys, the cash, the love, the faith, etc.?
If I can’t see what is theoretically on the physical plane and I believe should be easy to see, then how can I ‘see’ what is in the other realms? And, if I’m making it all up anyway, why aren’t I making up and communicating with the unseen spiritual beings whom I’ve been yearning to communicate with?
Intention. Yes, again, I go about setting intentions and being awake. With faithful expectancy and joy, I see what I am looking for, I live the life and experience the abundance that is mine by Divine Right. I stay alert to my good and to God’s Grace.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Let It Be
Yesterday I attended a talk given by Timothy Buzzard of Unity of Sedona. If I got it right, the crux of his message was that no one is in a position to judge. Any person or situation can provide profound usefulness in the midst of seeming discomfort and even horror, so why judge it?
If I believe there is a Divine Intelligence at work, then everything, everything, everything - and everyone - is here for a reason. I may not know what it is, but I can rest assured that there is purpose behind it all.
From that viewpoint, I endeavor to see the blessing in everything and everyone. I surrender into Spirit’s wisdom and love, and I just let things and people be. I do not judge lest I be judge - and there is simply no point in judging, it is moot.
In my earlier days of awakening, I never fully appreciated some of John Lennon’s songs, the lyrics as well as the music. It is only in recent years that I’ve realized the depth of and enjoyed the powerful spiritual meaning behind his “Imagine.” And yesterday, I came to see the same when Timothy played a gospel version of “Let It Be.”
With God in charge, I can simply let things be.
“Let It Be” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be. Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be.
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be,
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
If I believe there is a Divine Intelligence at work, then everything, everything, everything - and everyone - is here for a reason. I may not know what it is, but I can rest assured that there is purpose behind it all.
From that viewpoint, I endeavor to see the blessing in everything and everyone. I surrender into Spirit’s wisdom and love, and I just let things and people be. I do not judge lest I be judge - and there is simply no point in judging, it is moot.
In my earlier days of awakening, I never fully appreciated some of John Lennon’s songs, the lyrics as well as the music. It is only in recent years that I’ve realized the depth of and enjoyed the powerful spiritual meaning behind his “Imagine.” And yesterday, I came to see the same when Timothy played a gospel version of “Let It Be.”
With God in charge, I can simply let things be.
“Let It Be” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be. Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be.
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be,
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Pray for... Laughter
A recent posting on the Our Prayer website stated: “In the moment of sincere laughter, our heart is open as we experience true joy and gratitude for life.”
That’s the spiritual side, but there is also physical healing in humor. We know that laughter can improve heart rate, ease muscle tension and strengthen the immune system.
What a blessing laughter is. So why not pray for it?
A Prayer for Laughter
Dear Lord,
The day can be challenging.
Often our problems overwhelm our joys.
Today help me to see the moments that lighten my heart.
Help me to laugh more and fret less.
May the radiance and joy of your love shine in me.
Amen.
- OurPrayer.org
That’s the spiritual side, but there is also physical healing in humor. We know that laughter can improve heart rate, ease muscle tension and strengthen the immune system.
What a blessing laughter is. So why not pray for it?
A Prayer for Laughter
Dear Lord,
The day can be challenging.
Often our problems overwhelm our joys.
Today help me to see the moments that lighten my heart.
Help me to laugh more and fret less.
May the radiance and joy of your love shine in me.
Amen.
- OurPrayer.org
Thursday, April 1, 2010
A Different Day
“Mining the moment for something that feels good, something to appreciate, something to savor, something to take in, that's what your moments are about. They're not about justifying your existence. It's justified. You exist. It's not about proving your worthiness. It's done. You're worthy. It's not about achieving success. You never get it done. It's about "How much can this moment deliver to me?"” - Abraham, Excerpted from the 04.20.02 San Antonio, TX workshop #391
Today I decided to work at home and not schedule any client appointments so that I could focus on the client work awaiting me here in my office.
OK, I’m not setting the alarm clock. It’s a chance to catch up on sleep because usually 7 days/week I’ve got outside commitments commencing at 8 AM.
Ohhh, that means my morning practice is going to be off schedule. Oh well, I can at least squeeze some spiritually-focused reading in...
What a chance to have a sit down hot, homemade pancake breakfast with Rog we never break bread in the morning these days. The clock is ticking...
Ah, a good day for a short photo-op for my upcoming e-newsletter. It won’t take much time...
And, I need to research where to get our haircuts. Now’s as good a time as any.
Great article here about prayer - let me read it now...
Time for some lunch... I’ll eat at my desk to play catch up with time.
And, on and on and on.
In the past I would have engaged in self-flagellation for not doing the work I had planned to accomplish. These days, not so. I am present and enjoying what I am doing. I’m enjoying the moments that I’m stringing along that comprise this first day of April in 2010. And it’s actually been “productive”! So what’s the issue? It’s just a different type of day unfolding because I’m letting it do so with Spirit’s help.
I am not here to treat myself harshly, nor am I here to push, push, push. I’m not here to prove or justify myself. I am here to rest in the joy, love, and peace of God’s embrace.
It’s one day at a time with Spirit by my side. Whatever I am doing, all is perfect, all is in Divine Order. So why get bent out of shape because I didn’t follow my calendar or ‘to-do’ list? I am exactly where I am supposed to be and all is well.
Thank You, Spirit, for Your Wisdom making its way through to me, along with Your Peace, Love, and Joy.
Today I decided to work at home and not schedule any client appointments so that I could focus on the client work awaiting me here in my office.
OK, I’m not setting the alarm clock. It’s a chance to catch up on sleep because usually 7 days/week I’ve got outside commitments commencing at 8 AM.
Ohhh, that means my morning practice is going to be off schedule. Oh well, I can at least squeeze some spiritually-focused reading in...
What a chance to have a sit down hot, homemade pancake breakfast with Rog we never break bread in the morning these days. The clock is ticking...
Ah, a good day for a short photo-op for my upcoming e-newsletter. It won’t take much time...
And, I need to research where to get our haircuts. Now’s as good a time as any.
Great article here about prayer - let me read it now...
Time for some lunch... I’ll eat at my desk to play catch up with time.
And, on and on and on.
In the past I would have engaged in self-flagellation for not doing the work I had planned to accomplish. These days, not so. I am present and enjoying what I am doing. I’m enjoying the moments that I’m stringing along that comprise this first day of April in 2010. And it’s actually been “productive”! So what’s the issue? It’s just a different type of day unfolding because I’m letting it do so with Spirit’s help.
I am not here to treat myself harshly, nor am I here to push, push, push. I’m not here to prove or justify myself. I am here to rest in the joy, love, and peace of God’s embrace.
It’s one day at a time with Spirit by my side. Whatever I am doing, all is perfect, all is in Divine Order. So why get bent out of shape because I didn’t follow my calendar or ‘to-do’ list? I am exactly where I am supposed to be and all is well.
Thank You, Spirit, for Your Wisdom making its way through to me, along with Your Peace, Love, and Joy.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Membership
Recently a fellow Mystic Choir member asked me why I was becoming a member of Unity of Sedona. You see, she’d contemplated becoming one but was a bit skittish. As was I.
I’d been a devout atheist for many years, and even after 20 years on a conscious spiritual path, I still had my issues around the word church. I associate church with organized religion, which at least these days I can kindly say that I am able to see how it is helpful for some folks. If I could get over being an atheist, surely I could get over my conception of church. I could no longer allow my mindset to keep me from my greater good.
Unity.org states:
“The five basic ideas that make up the Unity belief system are: 1) God is the source and creator of all. There is no other enduring power. God is good and present everywhere. 2) We are spiritual beings, created in God's image. The spirit of God lives within each person; therefore, all people are inherently good. 3) We create our life experiences through our way of thinking. 4) There is power in affirmative prayer, which we believe increases our connection to God. 5) Knowledge of these spiritual principles is not enough. We must live them.” Sounds pretty painless! Well, actually these are ideas that I very much resonate with and believe in.
Unity is a vehicle for instruction, inspiration, and prayer support for spiritual seekers. It is a place of education. Unity of Sedona specifically is where my spirit gets nourished and soars, whether singing with the choir or opening my heart at a gratitude meeting. It’s a place where I can be of service in a myriad of ways. It’s a place where I feel comfortable spreading my wings trying out new things. It is a place of learning and love where awakening happens.
Why become a member when I already can participate in everything, except having a say with a vote on organizational decisions? Becoming a member, I feel ‘more a part of’, which is important to the little girl inside who always felt different, starting first with her family of origin. Outside of my 12 Step family (which is huge), I have never so felt a part of a group of people (it has not been for lack of searching). Becoming a member means I’m making a commitment to something I believe in and am willing to stand up for it. This is “my place” and I want to care for it; I want to support it. This community is my family and I want to protect it, strengthen it, nurture it. I feel as a member I can give with more of a whole heart.
As my family at Unity of Sedona helps me flourish and wake up, together we all awaken to a world of peace, love, and joy.
I’d been a devout atheist for many years, and even after 20 years on a conscious spiritual path, I still had my issues around the word church. I associate church with organized religion, which at least these days I can kindly say that I am able to see how it is helpful for some folks. If I could get over being an atheist, surely I could get over my conception of church. I could no longer allow my mindset to keep me from my greater good.
Unity.org states:
“The five basic ideas that make up the Unity belief system are: 1) God is the source and creator of all. There is no other enduring power. God is good and present everywhere. 2) We are spiritual beings, created in God's image. The spirit of God lives within each person; therefore, all people are inherently good. 3) We create our life experiences through our way of thinking. 4) There is power in affirmative prayer, which we believe increases our connection to God. 5) Knowledge of these spiritual principles is not enough. We must live them.” Sounds pretty painless! Well, actually these are ideas that I very much resonate with and believe in.
Unity is a vehicle for instruction, inspiration, and prayer support for spiritual seekers. It is a place of education. Unity of Sedona specifically is where my spirit gets nourished and soars, whether singing with the choir or opening my heart at a gratitude meeting. It’s a place where I can be of service in a myriad of ways. It’s a place where I feel comfortable spreading my wings trying out new things. It is a place of learning and love where awakening happens.
Why become a member when I already can participate in everything, except having a say with a vote on organizational decisions? Becoming a member, I feel ‘more a part of’, which is important to the little girl inside who always felt different, starting first with her family of origin. Outside of my 12 Step family (which is huge), I have never so felt a part of a group of people (it has not been for lack of searching). Becoming a member means I’m making a commitment to something I believe in and am willing to stand up for it. This is “my place” and I want to care for it; I want to support it. This community is my family and I want to protect it, strengthen it, nurture it. I feel as a member I can give with more of a whole heart.
As my family at Unity of Sedona helps me flourish and wake up, together we all awaken to a world of peace, love, and joy.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Peace
I realized during my "Spiritual Evolution in Consciousness" class last night that my morning quiet time is really the only time where I can be alone and in the silence with Spirit. And, what I yearn for in that time and space, and to carry with me throughout the day refers to a painting I see several times a week at Unity of Sedona, a replica of one at Unity Village:
“Peace, Be Still”
Ahhhh.
“Peace, Be Still”
Ahhhh.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Sedona Spring 2010
Yes, it’s Spring! You can see trees blossoming here in Sedona, and the daffodils are still standing strong after snow and wind last week. Red Rock Country is beautiful in all seasons and all kinds of weather - really - but spring just makes everything more beautiful wherever nature surrounds us. Living in concrete cities makes it more difficult to ascertain spring’s arrival, but even there one can experience its budding.
Spring, of course, is about rebirth, and on a personal, spiritual level, spring has sprung in Sedona several times already this year for me. My awakening ‘ah-ha’s’ have been numerous and continue to come forth.
“My personal springtime occurs as I open my heart and mind to the Divine.” - Today’s Daily Word, March 20, 2010
Spring, of course, is about rebirth, and on a personal, spiritual level, spring has sprung in Sedona several times already this year for me. My awakening ‘ah-ha’s’ have been numerous and continue to come forth.
“My personal springtime occurs as I open my heart and mind to the Divine.” - Today’s Daily Word, March 20, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Icing on the Cake
My life is rich. It didn’t take much to get it that way. I just needed to come back to me and to recommit to my #1 relationship – you know, the one with Spirit.
Now my heart is full. I’m enrolled in a spiritual psychology class, which being experiential allows me to get to know these other souls traveling on this particular path, and they me. I’m singing in a choir in which all members are walking a conscious spiritual path and actively engaged in the awakening process. I participate in a weekly circle of gratitude, where we each share from the heart and to the heart. I’m giving service to an organization that nourishes my soul.
My life is rich again because I am back in a heartfelt spiritual community. God’s presence is evident and It nourishes me.
And as I attend meetings, workshops, and events, getting to know the loving people God is putting on my path, I feel like I did when my life was rich as a single woman. In those days, I was extremely busy in my service work and spent more time alone with God than I have in recent years.
Things changed, and I moved from being single to being married – yes, after 49+ years on the planet this go around, I met my life partner 5+ years ago. I’ve had to learn to balance the three most important relationships in my life and it’s only recently that I kind of ‘got it.’
My life is rich with these relationships flourishing: Me and me, me and God, me and my husband. And, being part of a spiritual community brings these all together to make a most joyful, loving, meaningful life.
I recently wrote (blog of 03.11.10) “We are each individuals and the work we do to awaken to God’s grace is truly an inside job. Only I can do it for me, and having a loving partner along the way is icing on the cake. But I must remember that God is the cake and has to get baked first.”
On this day of my gratitude circle, I am grateful for this rich life which now includes the icing on the cake – my beloved Rog.
Now my heart is full. I’m enrolled in a spiritual psychology class, which being experiential allows me to get to know these other souls traveling on this particular path, and they me. I’m singing in a choir in which all members are walking a conscious spiritual path and actively engaged in the awakening process. I participate in a weekly circle of gratitude, where we each share from the heart and to the heart. I’m giving service to an organization that nourishes my soul.
My life is rich again because I am back in a heartfelt spiritual community. God’s presence is evident and It nourishes me.
And as I attend meetings, workshops, and events, getting to know the loving people God is putting on my path, I feel like I did when my life was rich as a single woman. In those days, I was extremely busy in my service work and spent more time alone with God than I have in recent years.
Things changed, and I moved from being single to being married – yes, after 49+ years on the planet this go around, I met my life partner 5+ years ago. I’ve had to learn to balance the three most important relationships in my life and it’s only recently that I kind of ‘got it.’
My life is rich with these relationships flourishing: Me and me, me and God, me and my husband. And, being part of a spiritual community brings these all together to make a most joyful, loving, meaningful life.
I recently wrote (blog of 03.11.10) “We are each individuals and the work we do to awaken to God’s grace is truly an inside job. Only I can do it for me, and having a loving partner along the way is icing on the cake. But I must remember that God is the cake and has to get baked first.”
On this day of my gratitude circle, I am grateful for this rich life which now includes the icing on the cake – my beloved Rog.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Amazing 20 Years
Today I celebrate the most important day of my life.
It was on Saturday, March 10, 1990, at 10:15am, on the upper side of Manhattan (NYC) that I first walked into the rooms of Overeaters Anonymous (OA), the 12 Step program based on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). It is there where I found Home, my family of choice, and commenced my conscious spiritual journey. It was the beginning of transforming my entire way of living via changing my world view.
This day 20 years ago was the start of my coming to believe in a God of my understanding. And, having been a ‘devout’ atheist, that was no small feat! After all, I’d known about The Program for five years but had declined attending a meeting because I knew the word “God” was going to be uttered.
I had no idea what I was getting myself into and how much my life was going to change by finally taking that fateful step of going to my first meeting - I actually landed up attending three that very first day!. But I had reached bottom, knew that something was ‘wrong’ with me, and also knew that psychotherapy, while helpful with other issues, was not sufficient to address this issue of my eating disorder.
I am grateful to OA in more ways and for more things than I could ever recount. My life and relationships would not be what they are today if I had not adopted the 12 Step way of life and had a personality shift of huge proportion. Over the years of practicing the principles and relying on a Power greater than myself, my life has become rich in a myriad of ways and my journey of awakening has become more adventurous.
Today I celebrate: having conscious contact with the Great Mystery who I know is my Source; the love of other spirits having a human experience; knowing peace and serenity are mine any time I choose despite what’s going on in the outer world; knowing my life has a purpose and being of service – the list goes on, and on, and on.
It’s an extra special day of grace and blessing! Thanks be to Spirit, and to all of you friends of Bill W. whose paths have crossed mine, where together we are living in the solution. God bless.
It was on Saturday, March 10, 1990, at 10:15am, on the upper side of Manhattan (NYC) that I first walked into the rooms of Overeaters Anonymous (OA), the 12 Step program based on Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). It is there where I found Home, my family of choice, and commenced my conscious spiritual journey. It was the beginning of transforming my entire way of living via changing my world view.
This day 20 years ago was the start of my coming to believe in a God of my understanding. And, having been a ‘devout’ atheist, that was no small feat! After all, I’d known about The Program for five years but had declined attending a meeting because I knew the word “God” was going to be uttered.
I had no idea what I was getting myself into and how much my life was going to change by finally taking that fateful step of going to my first meeting - I actually landed up attending three that very first day!. But I had reached bottom, knew that something was ‘wrong’ with me, and also knew that psychotherapy, while helpful with other issues, was not sufficient to address this issue of my eating disorder.
I am grateful to OA in more ways and for more things than I could ever recount. My life and relationships would not be what they are today if I had not adopted the 12 Step way of life and had a personality shift of huge proportion. Over the years of practicing the principles and relying on a Power greater than myself, my life has become rich in a myriad of ways and my journey of awakening has become more adventurous.
Today I celebrate: having conscious contact with the Great Mystery who I know is my Source; the love of other spirits having a human experience; knowing peace and serenity are mine any time I choose despite what’s going on in the outer world; knowing my life has a purpose and being of service – the list goes on, and on, and on.
It’s an extra special day of grace and blessing! Thanks be to Spirit, and to all of you friends of Bill W. whose paths have crossed mine, where together we are living in the solution. God bless.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Nothing?
Nothing comes to mind about what to blog about this morning despite reading several pieces of spiritual literature. Have I nothing to say to God this morning? That is surely something to place in my blog.
Dear God -
Thank You for this day. As the early morning coffee brews and I move into my special time with Rog, I think of You and Your Grace. I thank You for Your many blessings.
As I go about this busy, exciting day of adventures, may I keep You in my mind and my heart. May I pause and take a deep breath whenever I want to get an extra stronger dose of Your Presence.
And, please help everyone to appreciate that all in this life is a blessing because all in life emanates from You, and You are indeed the greatest blessing of all.
Love, Joyce
Dear God -
Thank You for this day. As the early morning coffee brews and I move into my special time with Rog, I think of You and Your Grace. I thank You for Your many blessings.
As I go about this busy, exciting day of adventures, may I keep You in my mind and my heart. May I pause and take a deep breath whenever I want to get an extra stronger dose of Your Presence.
And, please help everyone to appreciate that all in this life is a blessing because all in life emanates from You, and You are indeed the greatest blessing of all.
Love, Joyce
Monday, March 8, 2010
True Power
“True power springs from the understanding that I am co-creating at all times with Spirit; that at any moment, I can step into the all-ness of being. When I am in touch with my true spirit, I am bursting with energy and enthusiasm. I know that the One Power is within me and I can draw on that power at any time. In truth, I AM that power.” - Excerpted from Today’s Daily Word, March 8, 2010
I AM bursting with energy and enthusiasm. I appreciate the confirmation that it is due to me being in touch with my true spirit.
Since the beginning of this year, I have felt re-activated and re-energized. My personal and spiritual growth has taken off steeply (and rather quickly) and I’ve been feeling more and more empowered. And, that feeling springs from more deeply understanding that God is always with me and we are co-creating at all times.
Of myself I am nothing; with Spirit I have true power. I have been, and continue to be, touched by Grace. Thank You, thank You, thank You!
I AM bursting with energy and enthusiasm. I appreciate the confirmation that it is due to me being in touch with my true spirit.
Since the beginning of this year, I have felt re-activated and re-energized. My personal and spiritual growth has taken off steeply (and rather quickly) and I’ve been feeling more and more empowered. And, that feeling springs from more deeply understanding that God is always with me and we are co-creating at all times.
Of myself I am nothing; with Spirit I have true power. I have been, and continue to be, touched by Grace. Thank You, thank You, thank You!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Reborn
As I look back on my life these past several months, I have been reborn again and again. It’s obvious that this notion of being reborn is no longer a once-in-a-lifetime experience as I’d sensed it was. Yet its increased frequency doesn’t diminish its significance one bit.
So what do I mean by being reborn? My working definition of “being reborn” is: “a significant inner shift of a positive and spiritual nature that alters my sense of self and others thereby transforming my world view followed by a change in attitude and action.”
Sounds a lot like a miracle to me.
So what do I mean by being reborn? My working definition of “being reborn” is: “a significant inner shift of a positive and spiritual nature that alters my sense of self and others thereby transforming my world view followed by a change in attitude and action.”
Sounds a lot like a miracle to me.
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