This morning I was working with a group of managers at a hospital to help build successful relationships with each other and the people they supervise. This kind of work is always a challenge because you have in this case 6-7 people who have their own ways of viewing what is going on and their own sets of reactions. I like to work with more of the energy of the participants than the words they are saying. Words tell me what they are thinking and energy tells me more about the emotional health of the team. One particular employee in this gathering had emotional overload going on. The rest of the team was trying to figure out how to work with this.
I bring up energy here because it is our energy, our passions, and our emotions that make us stand out. I am a big basketball fan and love to watch the flow of energy in a game as a team rises or falls emotionally. I grew up in Portland, Oregon and have been a big fan of the Trailblazers. This year it feels good again to cheer for this young and very energized team. As an observer, I see a team aligned with each other and their inspirational coach. Their confidence is growing and their belief in what they are capable of doing takes them higher. This is fun to watch. Sitting in the stands with a team like this is a very uplifting experience.
This upward flow of emotions is available in us as it is in optimistic teams. The key factors to make that happen are: an enthusiasm for what you are doing; a passionate and purposeful desire to succeed and accomplish your goals; an clarity of attention; a creative flow of emotions that stretch you beyond your comfort zone; and a heart bursting with love for living life as fully as you can. Now that is a formula for success and a lifetime of fun.
Before you shake your head in amazement at those who can stir their own forces into a frenzy of energetic unstoppable success, take a look in the mirror and imagine a fountain of optimism erupting in you sending you into an orbit around your planets called self-realization and unlimited prosperity. Look in the mirror again and see the little sparkle in your eyes. Stand back because that is the rocket of your desires on the launch pad and you can start the count down immediately. Are you ready? Maybe you think you need to do this or that, but you don’t. You are already fully loaded with all the rocket fuel you need. That fuel is in your mind, your heart and the purpose for which you are here on the planet.
10 . 9 . 8 . . . . . . . . . . . are you ready for lift off yet?
You can live as if nothing can stop you. Try it, you will like it very much.
How About Some Guidelines For Your Roadblocks?
In my exploration of my inner roadblocks, I have come upon an interesting kind of sneaky theme that plays through me. The theme is, “Hang in there and get through this.” I caught myself running this theme the other day and I thought, wow this theme feels awfully familiar. When I have an awareness, like discovering this inner theme, my natural curiosity is to go looking in my interior of thoughts and beliefs and see where I signed up for this idea. In other words, how did this phrase become some kind of guiding idea in my life? It was only just the other day when I got a glimpse that this dominating phrase was part of my inner guidance system. I have been on the planet for 50 plus years and I just found out that this, “hang in there and get through this,” is what I use to make it through life’s challenges. Maybe even a theme of how to make it through life in general.
Here I go again giving you more information about my inner workings than you may want. I am fascinated by the endless variety of themes, ideas, beliefs and decisions we all have as part of our inner landscape. Just the idea, that after all these years of introspection, out from the shadow comes a prominent theme in my life. This discovery reminds me of how much the unconscious runs our lives. I write often about ways we limit ourselves and too often those limits are unconscious. So light needs to be shed on those limiting ideas and beliefs if we want to be free.
I have more exploring to do around this theme that has been brought out into the light. I will do that over the next week or so and open myself a little more to being more fully present and free in the moment. I will let you know if any interesting insights are to follow concerning this “hanging in there” theme. I do suspect that theme is more about getting past the present than being fully in it. This brings up an alert reaction in me, because I know this theme means I most likely am limiting myself in some way?
Now I want to follow up on the idea of our unconscious and its power over our lives. I find myself wondering how did we as humans evolve to have this section on our inner hard drive that runs us and we are mostly unaware of the programming. Curious question of which, I do not have an answer. So what do we do with this information? I want to endorse the idea that the more you and I shed light on the unconscious programming the freer we are to make choices about our life. That is the whole theme of psychotherapy and personal growth in a nutshell.
I know I am rambling about in my writing today because I am just letting the flow guide me toward some helpful hints for you and me. Here is what I want to encourage in us:
• Each day take time to listen inward and get to know the dominant themes in your inner dialogue
• Take quiet time to listen to any behind the scene strategies on the inner hard drive.
• Remember you are the programmer and start to be conscious of how you program yourself throughout the day
• Always be kind to yourself in this exploration. You deserve love and compassion even as you realize how much you get in your own way.
• If you get stuck, go talk to people who can listen and ask thoughtful questions. Sometime counseling can get you past a stuck spot quickly.
• Notice your reactions to ideas and situations because your reactivity is part of that programming
• Pay attention to the results you are creating in your life, those too are part of your programming
• Listen to your heart’s feedback, is it opening or closing in any given situation. Closing is most often part of unconscious programming.
• See relationships as great doorways into the unconscious. Those themes that come up with those you love are filled with your unconscious programming.
• Let go of any judgments or criticisms of yourself and instead take this exploration on like a detective trying to solve the mystery of who you are.
• Keep in mind that those past decisions about life can be updated in the moment. Change any unwanted themes into new programming that will enhance your life.
• The more open you are to seeing inside the more the light will go on and the more you will create a consciously directed life.
There that should keep you busy for the rest of your life. I don't mean to make you busy. I see this all as part of life's journey. Let me know what you discover along the way. I hope you find these ideas helpful and that you gain the awareness and insights you need to make your life a joy to live.
Here I go again giving you more information about my inner workings than you may want. I am fascinated by the endless variety of themes, ideas, beliefs and decisions we all have as part of our inner landscape. Just the idea, that after all these years of introspection, out from the shadow comes a prominent theme in my life. This discovery reminds me of how much the unconscious runs our lives. I write often about ways we limit ourselves and too often those limits are unconscious. So light needs to be shed on those limiting ideas and beliefs if we want to be free.
I have more exploring to do around this theme that has been brought out into the light. I will do that over the next week or so and open myself a little more to being more fully present and free in the moment. I will let you know if any interesting insights are to follow concerning this “hanging in there” theme. I do suspect that theme is more about getting past the present than being fully in it. This brings up an alert reaction in me, because I know this theme means I most likely am limiting myself in some way?
Now I want to follow up on the idea of our unconscious and its power over our lives. I find myself wondering how did we as humans evolve to have this section on our inner hard drive that runs us and we are mostly unaware of the programming. Curious question of which, I do not have an answer. So what do we do with this information? I want to endorse the idea that the more you and I shed light on the unconscious programming the freer we are to make choices about our life. That is the whole theme of psychotherapy and personal growth in a nutshell.
I know I am rambling about in my writing today because I am just letting the flow guide me toward some helpful hints for you and me. Here is what I want to encourage in us:
• Each day take time to listen inward and get to know the dominant themes in your inner dialogue
• Take quiet time to listen to any behind the scene strategies on the inner hard drive.
• Remember you are the programmer and start to be conscious of how you program yourself throughout the day
• Always be kind to yourself in this exploration. You deserve love and compassion even as you realize how much you get in your own way.
• If you get stuck, go talk to people who can listen and ask thoughtful questions. Sometime counseling can get you past a stuck spot quickly.
• Notice your reactions to ideas and situations because your reactivity is part of that programming
• Pay attention to the results you are creating in your life, those too are part of your programming
• Listen to your heart’s feedback, is it opening or closing in any given situation. Closing is most often part of unconscious programming.
• See relationships as great doorways into the unconscious. Those themes that come up with those you love are filled with your unconscious programming.
• Let go of any judgments or criticisms of yourself and instead take this exploration on like a detective trying to solve the mystery of who you are.
• Keep in mind that those past decisions about life can be updated in the moment. Change any unwanted themes into new programming that will enhance your life.
• The more open you are to seeing inside the more the light will go on and the more you will create a consciously directed life.
There that should keep you busy for the rest of your life. I don't mean to make you busy. I see this all as part of life's journey. Let me know what you discover along the way. I hope you find these ideas helpful and that you gain the awareness and insights you need to make your life a joy to live.
I Spell Relief: O P E N I N G
The world we live in gives us feedback about how we are doing. When there is love in our life, it is because our heart is open. When we feel excited about life, it is because we are listening inward and following our guidance. When money comes our way, it is because we allow it in. The opposite is also true. If our lives are lacking love than most likely our hearts are not open. If we don’t like our life, than we may not be paying attention to our inner guidance. If the money flow is low, that we may be limiting ourselves.
This feedback system of the universe is a very valuable way to know where we are open and receptive, and where we have self-limiting ideas or beliefs. I mentioned this because I have great flows in some areas of my life and in other areas there seems to be feedback that I have limits placed on myself. I deeply appreciate this feedback because my goal is to be as fully realized as I can be. One flow that is not as abundant as I would like is in the area of money. I have enough to get by, but not enough to feel prosperous and to enjoy financial freedom. This low flow is feedback, so I went searching for answers.
As I reported the other day, I went to see someone who helps people explore their blocks. This process can be humbling and definitely not for those who have fragile egos. I left with a number of ideas and much confusion. So I went to someone who I thought could help me take this information further. My coach is a very exceptional human being who always invites the best out in me. I work in this kind of positive way with my clients too so it is only right I would get the same kind of support and encouragement.
She helped me see how my own exploration hadn’t taken the process deep enough to release my own blocks. I now have some work to do and some specifics to work with. I am rolling up my sleeves and getting right at it. This morning I spent several hours listening inward for guidance and insight and then journaled as I explored. I want to be free of all my limiting beliefs and ideas and I will work at it until I am.
This may be more than you want to know about my issues but I am sharing them because I would guess that you to might be holding yourself back? If you are and are willing to look at what is going on then now is a good time to dig deeper. This year is awaiting and you and I have things to do. Are you ready to take full responsibility for creating the life you want? Say goodbye to blame and complaining and get into gear. You will be very glad you did even if the journey has a few potholes along the way.
Let me know if I can be of assistance and please share your breakthroughs because we can all benefit from your insights.
This feedback system of the universe is a very valuable way to know where we are open and receptive, and where we have self-limiting ideas or beliefs. I mentioned this because I have great flows in some areas of my life and in other areas there seems to be feedback that I have limits placed on myself. I deeply appreciate this feedback because my goal is to be as fully realized as I can be. One flow that is not as abundant as I would like is in the area of money. I have enough to get by, but not enough to feel prosperous and to enjoy financial freedom. This low flow is feedback, so I went searching for answers.
As I reported the other day, I went to see someone who helps people explore their blocks. This process can be humbling and definitely not for those who have fragile egos. I left with a number of ideas and much confusion. So I went to someone who I thought could help me take this information further. My coach is a very exceptional human being who always invites the best out in me. I work in this kind of positive way with my clients too so it is only right I would get the same kind of support and encouragement.
She helped me see how my own exploration hadn’t taken the process deep enough to release my own blocks. I now have some work to do and some specifics to work with. I am rolling up my sleeves and getting right at it. This morning I spent several hours listening inward for guidance and insight and then journaled as I explored. I want to be free of all my limiting beliefs and ideas and I will work at it until I am.
This may be more than you want to know about my issues but I am sharing them because I would guess that you to might be holding yourself back? If you are and are willing to look at what is going on then now is a good time to dig deeper. This year is awaiting and you and I have things to do. Are you ready to take full responsibility for creating the life you want? Say goodbye to blame and complaining and get into gear. You will be very glad you did even if the journey has a few potholes along the way.
Let me know if I can be of assistance and please share your breakthroughs because we can all benefit from your insights.
Inside Is a Storm Brewing, It Is A Life With Purpose
There is a storm brewing in this part of the country. The morning sunrise was glowing red and the wind is howling as I compose this blog. There is something invigorated inside of me when nature outside is charged with activity. I feel alive with energy and purpose. Maybe it is my nature that is storming inside? Do you feel the storm of passion brewing in you?
Today is the actual birthday of Martin Luther King. Dr King was a powerful inspiration for me when I was a teenager. His “I Have A Dream” speech still rings through my cells. His work for justice and peace encourages me as I work for peace. I write often on this blog about ideas for inner peace and self-realization in the hopes that when each of us feels positive about our own lives then we can be forces for peace in the world.
It is my hope that the storm brewing in this country for equal justice and for accountability in government will be guide by the people for the people and the health of the nation. In each of us there are our own storms brewing. Pay attention to the callings you have, the feeling stirred, the intuitive sense of the truth, and to your own passion filled heart. Your wisdom and compassion are needed.
This afternoon I am giving a talk to a group of community activist and I am excited to have the opportunity to stir the forces for positive change. I want to share with them the importance of living with purpose, having a clarity of focus and taking action from the place of inner peace and higher guidance. People with heart and focus will change the world.
Have a good day and live with passion and purpose.
Is Greatness Calling You?
What has been stirred up in you lately? What needs further expression in your life? I ask these questions because I want to encourage you to pay attention to what is going on inside of you. There is inside of you the urge to expressing your potential, to explore your self-realization, and sometimes even the strong calling to be great. Is any of this going on even though it may feel like struggle, stuckness, a lack of focus, or doubt; it could be a part of you that feels clamped down or held back from expression. I am saying these things because you and I are the only ones that really hold us back. This is where another perspective on your journey can be very helpful.
Another viewpoint can come from reading, there are many books out there that will help you see from a broader point of view. Another viewpoint can come from meditation or sitting quietly and listening, past the endless monologue of thoughts, to the deeper knowing within you. Other viewpoints can come from those around you who can give you supportive feedback. Those that care about you see your blocks better than you do. If you feel ready another great source is through counseling or coaching.
I have a coach who helps me expand my viewpoints and is very supportive and encouraging. I also provide coaching services and have for many years. I love helping people explore all the purpose, passion and potential they have inside. Send me an email if you want to find out more explorelifeblog@inbox.com. That was a self-promotion and I do that because I tend to undersell who I am and what I have to offer. I want to be more bold and step more fully into offering all that I have to give. I suggest you and I and everyone do the same. I want to be less self-limiting in 2008. How about you?
One of the things I am working on this year comes from the influence of the Abraham-Hicks CD’s. I love listening to them because they keep my mind open and thinking in ways that I feel are very expansive for me. I encourage you to explore these readings or find ones that work for you. Hearing other voices share ideas that take me higher is very helpful.
I have another suggestion that I have found very helpful in moving beyond my self-limits. Create your own affirmative statement or mantra that you repeat to yourself throughout the day. I see certain reoccurring themes in my life and a mantra or affirmation can serve as a breaking ball or vibration that will help dissolve what is holding me back. I use the image of the breaking ball because I need some strong medicine to get past some old deep-rooted beliefs that for too long have held me back. Do you have some old limiting beliefs buried in the unconscious that you need to bash into smithereens?
I do and my affirmation/mantra will accomplish the breakthrough for me: “I Am loving, allowing, open and receiving the abundance of the Universe.” Each word has meaning to me. “I Am” is an affirmation of my higher nature. “Loving” is what I am here to do and means my heart is fully engaged in manifesting. “Allowing” is being open to my greater good and to leap past the old beliefs holding me back. “Open” means I am keeping my mind and heart open which is the optimal state. “Receiving” is to remind me that I do deserve and there is much available if I am open to receive. “Abundance” means there is an unlimited supply of all that I need, want and desire out there ready for me. “Universe” is the Source, the Great Creator, God, Higher Power or whatever you call the infinite source of all.
Write out and explore a power statement for you and when you got one that feels right, have it travel with you throughout 2008. You will be amazed as you watch your life being transformed. Let me know how it goes. I will keep you informed along the way as to how it is going for me.
Another viewpoint can come from reading, there are many books out there that will help you see from a broader point of view. Another viewpoint can come from meditation or sitting quietly and listening, past the endless monologue of thoughts, to the deeper knowing within you. Other viewpoints can come from those around you who can give you supportive feedback. Those that care about you see your blocks better than you do. If you feel ready another great source is through counseling or coaching.
I have a coach who helps me expand my viewpoints and is very supportive and encouraging. I also provide coaching services and have for many years. I love helping people explore all the purpose, passion and potential they have inside. Send me an email if you want to find out more explorelifeblog@inbox.com. That was a self-promotion and I do that because I tend to undersell who I am and what I have to offer. I want to be more bold and step more fully into offering all that I have to give. I suggest you and I and everyone do the same. I want to be less self-limiting in 2008. How about you?
One of the things I am working on this year comes from the influence of the Abraham-Hicks CD’s. I love listening to them because they keep my mind open and thinking in ways that I feel are very expansive for me. I encourage you to explore these readings or find ones that work for you. Hearing other voices share ideas that take me higher is very helpful.
I have another suggestion that I have found very helpful in moving beyond my self-limits. Create your own affirmative statement or mantra that you repeat to yourself throughout the day. I see certain reoccurring themes in my life and a mantra or affirmation can serve as a breaking ball or vibration that will help dissolve what is holding me back. I use the image of the breaking ball because I need some strong medicine to get past some old deep-rooted beliefs that for too long have held me back. Do you have some old limiting beliefs buried in the unconscious that you need to bash into smithereens?
I do and my affirmation/mantra will accomplish the breakthrough for me: “I Am loving, allowing, open and receiving the abundance of the Universe.” Each word has meaning to me. “I Am” is an affirmation of my higher nature. “Loving” is what I am here to do and means my heart is fully engaged in manifesting. “Allowing” is being open to my greater good and to leap past the old beliefs holding me back. “Open” means I am keeping my mind and heart open which is the optimal state. “Receiving” is to remind me that I do deserve and there is much available if I am open to receive. “Abundance” means there is an unlimited supply of all that I need, want and desire out there ready for me. “Universe” is the Source, the Great Creator, God, Higher Power or whatever you call the infinite source of all.
Write out and explore a power statement for you and when you got one that feels right, have it travel with you throughout 2008. You will be amazed as you watch your life being transformed. Let me know how it goes. I will keep you informed along the way as to how it is going for me.
Why Are You Here?
It is Sunday and many people go to church on this day. I do not, nor does my wife or many of the people we know. I am a deeply spiritual person, in my own way, but not a religious person. I attended religious schools when I was a child and on through high school. I read the Bible and thought it was just a uninteresting collection of stories by men, not the word of God. I went to church regularly until college and then I stopped going. Church had lost meaning for me because what the priest said may no sense to my mind and left my heart searching for more to experience. As an adult I have gone to a few churches in different places I have lived. These churches were less dogmatic and more open-minded but they didn’t seem to touch me at a level that made me want to join.
Religion seems to be about people in community sharing beliefs. I am less willing to share beliefs because I question beliefs and am more interested in finding truth. Truth to me is a very individual journey. Sure people can share truths but these truths are more an inner awareness than a shared belief. Does that make sense to you? I know what feels like truth to me is unique to me although others may share in these truths. The following are my truths about why I am here in this life:
I am here to love
I am here to be joyous
I am here to give
I am here to be of service to others
I am here to be kind
I am here to be conscious
I am here to realize my unique potential
I am here to live my purpose
I am here to be creative
I am here to be open and understand
I am here to listen
I am here to appreciate the natural world around me
I am here to enjoy the uniqueness of others
I am here to value the life of other living things
I am here to be a global citizen
I am here to spread peace
I am here to have compassion
I am here to encourage and inspire
I am here to eat and enjoy
I am here to laugh and smile
I am here to feel all that arises in me
I am here to be supportive
I am here to follow my bliss
I am here to feel gratitude
I am here to run in the mountains and along the ocean
I am here to care for my body and heart
I am here to nurture my spirit
I am here to be guided by my soul’s journey
I am here to be on fire with passion
I am here to explore each day
I am here to find the Divine in me and beyond
I am here to write to you and say you are awesome
Why are you here?
You Must Question What Is Going On
I was moved to write a blog questioning what is going on and about the tragedy that is Marion Jones. She was once a great athlete, who is now going to jail for six months. She will be taken away from her two children for lying to federal prosecutors and punished. Why has America become so obsessed with putting people in prison? Did you know that we put more people in prison percentage wise than any other modern democracy? Prison does nothing positive for anyone. Punishment like this for a victimless crime is inhumane and without heart. America as a Prison Nation is lacking true compassion.
Now I want to ask about why some truly terrible things are going on with extensive lying to the people, the Congress, and the federal government and there has been no consequences? How come these people are not held responsible for their acts?
What about the President lying the United States into the Iraq war?
What about Cheney and his endless lies?
What about Congress and their neglect of their duty to provide checks and balances on the Executive branch?
What about 150,000 to 1,000,000 Iraqis who have died for what reason?
What about the Blackwater private army being able to act beyond the laws of what is right and wrong?
What about Halliburton’s outrageously costs in charges in Iraq?
What about the President lying about torture?
What about the President lying about spying on America?
What about the subversion of justice for those being held as “enemy combatants”?
What about the new Attorney General who won’t investigate what is going on in our government?
What about US government borrowing from China to pay for its war debt and selling America’s future?
What about the phony “scientific” studies paid for by the oil industries to say there is no global warming?
What about the endless stream of lies from elected officials and corporations in the pursuit of greed and power?
All these lies, dishonesty and neglect of duty need to brought to justice. That does not mean they should all be put in prison but they should all be held accountable.
Come on America, let’s ask questions and find our hearts again. Let’s insist that people who represent us and do business with our government be honest and respectful of our country and human life. These endless lies must stop and the greed and hunger for power must be put aside or America will be a once great nation. It is time to stop this obsession with punishment and instead help heal those that have lost their way. A nation guided by the hearts of its people can thrive and wars can finally end.
Peace and Love to everyone on the planet.
Collage/Vision Board Workshop in Boulder
If you live in the Boulder/Denver area, you will be interested in this workshop to create a powerful vision for whatever kind of success you want to create in 2008.
A Loud Crash of Three Books
I live in a beautiful place at the foot of the Rockies. The Flatirons are what they call the sharp ridges I can see from my home office. The other day I wanted to run up closer to the mountains so I ran up into the fog to a place that overlooks the city. The view was blocked but I was happy to be in the clean air of this elevation. I love running in the mountains and the feel of my body building strength. It feels rewarding to me taking on a challenge and pushing my way through to the end. I think of Rocky Balboa on the stairs with his arms in the air celebrating feeling so alive. Running down is also fun because I can let loose and feel almost effortless. This time on the way down in the fog I saw a large coyote out hunting for dinner. There is something always magical for me when I encounter wild life. Maybe I remember the wild in me?
I am rambling away today. I mentioned the idea of searching for books, by letting the books come to you, the other day in my blog. I want to tell you a story about that today. As you can probably tell I trust my intuitive guidance. I grew up in Oregon and one day after returning there from Grad school I was wandering about a large public library, you know the kind with the big columns out front, with marble floors, and very high ceilings. I was in a section of books with topics that interested me. As I do sometimes, I just walk and look and see what book wants me to check it out.
That day a book came flying off the shelf and crashes to the floor near my feet with a loud bang. The room was full of people at their tables but only one person looked up to see what was going on. I picked up the book, skimmed the content and thought this is not for me. The onlooker then joined me and looked at the book and said it was for her. I thought that was a little weird but said ok to myself and went back to my intuitive receptivity and again another book came flying out and landed on the floor. The same person looked up and after I looked the book over, she came and said, I think this one is for me also. That happened again and again she ended up with the book over at her place of study.
I decided it wasn’t my day to have a book request for me to take it home. Many books had before but never so dramatically have I seen another being shown what to read. I fully believe that when the student is ready the teach will show up. In this case the books were the teacher. Now you are wondering, what does this have to do with you? Well I will tell you. There comes often, if you are open, guidance that is made available to you. It could be a book; the writings of this blog or other blogs; a song or phrase that repeats in your mind; a friend who gives you valuable feedback; a sign that awakens some questions or understanding in you; maybe even a teacher or mentor; or a deep sense of knowing within you.
There is always guidance if you pay attention. Paying attention happens when you are open to guidance, aware of yourself and what is going on around you, quiet enough to hear, and receptive to whatever form it may arrive in. Important guidance, wherever it comes from, feels right deep inside. Following that guidance will allow you to create the life you would love to live.
Have a good weekend and be on the lookout for falling books.
I am rambling away today. I mentioned the idea of searching for books, by letting the books come to you, the other day in my blog. I want to tell you a story about that today. As you can probably tell I trust my intuitive guidance. I grew up in Oregon and one day after returning there from Grad school I was wandering about a large public library, you know the kind with the big columns out front, with marble floors, and very high ceilings. I was in a section of books with topics that interested me. As I do sometimes, I just walk and look and see what book wants me to check it out.
That day a book came flying off the shelf and crashes to the floor near my feet with a loud bang. The room was full of people at their tables but only one person looked up to see what was going on. I picked up the book, skimmed the content and thought this is not for me. The onlooker then joined me and looked at the book and said it was for her. I thought that was a little weird but said ok to myself and went back to my intuitive receptivity and again another book came flying out and landed on the floor. The same person looked up and after I looked the book over, she came and said, I think this one is for me also. That happened again and again she ended up with the book over at her place of study.
I decided it wasn’t my day to have a book request for me to take it home. Many books had before but never so dramatically have I seen another being shown what to read. I fully believe that when the student is ready the teach will show up. In this case the books were the teacher. Now you are wondering, what does this have to do with you? Well I will tell you. There comes often, if you are open, guidance that is made available to you. It could be a book; the writings of this blog or other blogs; a song or phrase that repeats in your mind; a friend who gives you valuable feedback; a sign that awakens some questions or understanding in you; maybe even a teacher or mentor; or a deep sense of knowing within you.
There is always guidance if you pay attention. Paying attention happens when you are open to guidance, aware of yourself and what is going on around you, quiet enough to hear, and receptive to whatever form it may arrive in. Important guidance, wherever it comes from, feels right deep inside. Following that guidance will allow you to create the life you would love to live.
Have a good weekend and be on the lookout for falling books.
Jump Start 2008 If Still On Hold
We are now 10 days into the New Year. I am excited about all the opportunities that are coming my way. How do things look for you? Have you got your 2008 legs under you yet? Do you feel the focus of a powerful intention or are you wandering about the desert in search of your next path? Here are some early 2008 reminders:
• Find a focus and commit to it. Keep your eye on the ball
• Slow down and take a long slow series of breaths and open your heart
• Picture on your internal big screen the life you want, feel it, sense it, in every way you can
• Take care of your body; keep it fit, rested and well fueled
• Inspire the mind by opening it to new ideas. Check out the books mentioned below or go to the bookstore or library and let a book pick you. You will be amazed at this experiment
• Plan some time to express your playfulness, be creative, sing, dance, paint, shoot hoops, or whatever fires you up with fun
• Listen to the river of purpose and possibility that wants to express through you and your life
• Nurture your spirit in meditation, prayer, silence, nature or whatever takes you higher
• Pay attention to the beat of your emotions as they guide your each step. Follow what opens you up and avoid what closes you down
• Allow, Allow, Allow, Be open to receive the gifts of the Universe which are just outside your door
• Seek to understand and have compassion for All others
• Notice where you feel gratitude in you and your world and say thank you by being joyous in your appreciation for life
If that list doesn’t stir you, call for emergency resuscitation. Get the mind medics to jolt you back to life with charges of inspiration. You are awesome, so start hanging out there.
A Mind Medic is on call and awaiting your emails at explorelifeblog@inbox.com. Joy to you this day.
Establishment Wins This Round
I have some brief comments on the results in New Hampshire. I am surprised, as most are, by the showing of John McCain and Hillary. They seem like the establishment choices for the November election and they came through with the voters in this primary. I will be very disappointed if we see these two pro Iraq war candidates battle it out in the fall. This country is way past ready to get us out of this incredibly unnecessary mess.
There are so many issues that need to be explored with a depth of wisdom, with open minds, with compassionate hearts and free of vested influences. I am looking for inspired leadership to lift us up and I suspect so are many others. Who to you represents the best possibility to be an inspired leader?
I just read the CNN Headlines and Bush said, "Iran was a threat to world peace." I think he needs to look in the mirror and see the real threat.
Metaphysical Construction Zone – Barrier Removal
Inner work can be very unsettling. I forgot about that when I headed off to Martha’s for her version of how to grow past the blocks within me. I am back from that experience and I feel confused and full of new stuff to sort out. I crossed paths with some doubts that have held me back for much of my adult life and under those was an even bigger doubt that has left me feeling unsure and a little fragile.
The benefit of the inner work is that it gives you and I information about who we are and how we stop ourselves. The challenge is often that the “you in charge” is primarily unconscious and often irrational. These limiting beliefs have their origins in our earlier years where we make decisions based on inadequate information and those decisions shape who we are oftentimes for life. This thought quagmire is an odd human evolution. Even though I have a doctorate in Psychology and have counseled others for over 30 years, I am still amazed at how difficult these faulty beliefs are to uproot. There are many ideas about how that is done but no tried and true ones that I can find, and I have looked extensively.
Today I was introduced to another method and it seemed to be of value even though my rational mind felt caught up in a word storm of concepts. I left feeling a little lost and will seek out my Higher Self to help guide me through the unknown. One of the questions I face and I suspect you may too is that there can be a variety of inner voices attempting to guide me. The ego wants to be in charge and is always ready to guide me. Unfortunately the ego is run by fear and a need to control. Not quite what I would call impartial. My Higher Self is and can be very useful and at other times it seems less empowered to help me. I suspect the times that Self is less helpful is more a product of the ego blocking or rusty, stinky, old thoughts immovably in the way.
My first step is to sort out all the thoughts and emotions that are coming up for me. If I listen quietly inward I can get a sense of how my inner landscape has been disrupted. From there I can write about new insights or explore the deeper questions present. I will let you know what I discover. Also let me know if you can identify with what I am writing about. Please leave a comment below or if you want more privacy, email me at explorelifeblog@inbox.com. I welcome your insights.
The benefit of the inner work is that it gives you and I information about who we are and how we stop ourselves. The challenge is often that the “you in charge” is primarily unconscious and often irrational. These limiting beliefs have their origins in our earlier years where we make decisions based on inadequate information and those decisions shape who we are oftentimes for life. This thought quagmire is an odd human evolution. Even though I have a doctorate in Psychology and have counseled others for over 30 years, I am still amazed at how difficult these faulty beliefs are to uproot. There are many ideas about how that is done but no tried and true ones that I can find, and I have looked extensively.
Today I was introduced to another method and it seemed to be of value even though my rational mind felt caught up in a word storm of concepts. I left feeling a little lost and will seek out my Higher Self to help guide me through the unknown. One of the questions I face and I suspect you may too is that there can be a variety of inner voices attempting to guide me. The ego wants to be in charge and is always ready to guide me. Unfortunately the ego is run by fear and a need to control. Not quite what I would call impartial. My Higher Self is and can be very useful and at other times it seems less empowered to help me. I suspect the times that Self is less helpful is more a product of the ego blocking or rusty, stinky, old thoughts immovably in the way.
My first step is to sort out all the thoughts and emotions that are coming up for me. If I listen quietly inward I can get a sense of how my inner landscape has been disrupted. From there I can write about new insights or explore the deeper questions present. I will let you know what I discover. Also let me know if you can identify with what I am writing about. Please leave a comment below or if you want more privacy, email me at explorelifeblog@inbox.com. I welcome your insights.
An Extraordinary Day With Three Resources
Today is an exciting day for me. I love the politics of the primaries and New Hampshire has become the focus of the nation. There is change stirring because America is ready. Can you feel that urging of the Nation? It is time to set out on a new course where the people matter; where the higher values of open minded and compassionate human beings take back the reigns of a country that has been lead astray.
I am also excited because I am having a session with Martha who does inner work called I Am Source facilitation. My wife and I met Martha at one of the fairs where we were selling our peace t-shirts and advocating for a peaceful world. She gave a bunch of our shirts for Christmas gifts and we each got a session in exchange. I so much enjoy exploring new methods that will assist me to be a more loving and self-realizing human being. Learning and growing makes me feel alive and on purpose.
I will have more to say about both the primary and the inner work tomorrow. There is bound to be good news from both.
Thirdly I am excited about three resources that I believe you will find valuable in 2008. I must admit to being addicted to reading. I always have about 3-6 books going at once and I just enjoy soaking in the inspiration of people who I feel have something of value to say.
The first book is one I mentioned before and I wanted to mention it again. It is Eat, Pray and Love by Elizabeth Gilbert. This is a wonderful book about living a life fully. I am in the Pray section of the book and a quote jumped out at me as such a powerful affirmation of who we all are. “God dwells within you, as you.” To me this quote means that we are okay just as we are, as a matter of fact more than okay, we are Divine. I appreciate this reminder. How about you?
The second book is called Instant Enlightenment: Fast Deep and Sexy by David Deida. This guy’s ideas, in this simple and brief book, will stretch you mind, heart and spirit in ways that frankly you might find surprising. This author is willing to look at life in ways that most have not yet discovered. Take a plunge and enjoy the journey.
The third book is by Ross Bishop and it is called the Journey of Enlightenment. I got this book to review it by a publisher who came upon my blog. Ross is someone I would like to meet because we seem to walk some very similar paths. His book has 13 life principles that you will find of real value. I am only part way through the book and will mention more later. It is hot off the presses and I suggest you go to Amazon and get yourself a copy.
Now lets settle in and see how this day works out with the inner work and our nations revival. I am going off to read some more of all three of these books. Have a day with lots of heart and one that makes your soul do some dancing.
Monday Morning Tea With Doubt
This morning as I was preparing to write this blog, I sense a small inkling of self-doubt so I new things were stirred up in me this Monday early. To overcome the social conditioning I have received is a battle I sometimes face. Today self-doubt, which was heavily planted in me from my 12 years of Catholic schools, has come to have morning tea with me. Just for a moment doubt wants to take me from the now and thrust me back into the many ill programmed questions of deserving, of not being good enough or whatever nonsense those adults tried to feed me. I unfortunately was an open book so their ideas sank in. I didn’t know better then.
Being a conscious human means to know when you are different then your programming. I know this arising of self-doubt is only a learned response to the unknown that faces me today and everyday. Most days I go forward with intention and feel excited and ready to create. Today’s herbal tea inner conversation is about stepping past the fear and doubt and going forward with purpose and passion. As I write this I feel energized by the purpose that flows through me and uplifted beyond the conditioning. I do not blame others for they only shared what they thought was the truth. They had not awakened from their own unquestioning mind.
From here I will plan out my day free of sense of lack in myself. That lack is just a thought and it is easily dissolved by light and love. I feel my heart open again to myself and I sense the light has brightened the cerebral hallway. Things are good again because I realize, in this moment, that I create my reality.
Don’t let the old limiting ideas in you hold you back any longer. You can get past those barriers by noticing them as not you now, then you focus on who you are with lots of heart and filled with purpose. With heart and intention you set yourself free to be the inventor of you life experience. Have fun and enjoy the miracle of life.
There are two ways to love life.
One is as though nothing is a miracle.
The other is as though everything is a miracle
Albert Einstein
Here is the challenge.
Stop. Look. Listen
Nothing is in the way
Spontaneously, life is bursting forth
Steven Harrison
Images Have Power and So Do Ideas
I love images so I created the collage below to remind me of people and ideas that are important. When shaping your 2008 it is essential that you have clear images of what you want to happen. Please take the time to put together some pictures and words that can lift you up when you get off track.
This collage is on particleboard that I painted first to give it a background of colors. The pictures I chose are to remind me that my inner life is a key ingredient in creating the life I want. Martin Luther King, Gandhi and Buddha are inspiring heroes to me. There are also images of hearts, peace, and the spirit of inspiration.
What matter to you? What words, people and images can take you higher?
Here are some words I thought of this morning as I was thinking about my blog today. These ideas would transform our lives and the planet. Consider defining them in your own way and integrate them into your life?
CONSCIOUSNESS
UNDERSTANDING
ACCEPTANCE
INSPIRATION
KINDNESS
COMPASSION and LOVE
Enjoy your day and be you as fully and with as much fun as you can.
Collage For Inspiration
2008, Time For Some Groovy Grooves
How’s the start of the year going for you? Are you motivated? Have you fallen back into your old ways yet? Have you been tested in your resolve? There is a very natural occurrence in us humans. We tend to do things as we have always done them. That is the power of habit. One of the goals here in 2008 is to create some new positive habits. We want to climb out of some of the old grooves because they aren’t working that well and we want to create new pathways for success.
Over the first few days I have seen myself return to some habits that are working for me and some that need revision. Ones that work for me are my blog writing, which I do first thing when I get up in the morning after spending some time visualizing the outcomes I want to see today. Another two positive habits are my daily workouts and my daily meditations. Those are working well but the rest of my day needs some new definition. I will spend the next few days getting clear about how I want to set myself up for more success by starting some groovy grooves.
Before you wander off for the day I would like to remind you that first and most important of all is to appreciate yourself. I am telling you that also as a reminder for myself. No matter what happens this year, one of the most important things for you to do is to consistently be loving and accepting of who you are. Without that positive self-regard you will get in your own way of having the kinds of successes you want. Begin with self–love.
Another key aspect is to get a clear picture of what you want to have happen this year. I like to make a collage or vision board that will have images of the results I want to create. This is easy to do. Get a piece of cardboard, particleboard or poster board and a stack of magazines. Then start finding pictures and words that fit with your dreams of 2008. Take those images and create a collage/vision board showing the kinds of outcomes you will manifest. This vision of what you want will serve as a powerful reminder. I will put up an example of a collage here on my site later today or tomorrow.
NEW VIDEO
Lastly and with much excitement I have a new video about Kindness, which I wrote and Tayie over at SoulTV.net has done a wonderful job turning into a video. Please check it out and let me know what you think. Have a fun and loving weekend.
That’s One For Obama and One for Hope
Politics is tricky business and most of us have gotten awfully tired of being constantly disappointed by all those that are suppose to represent the people. Last night the people voting, on the Democratic side in Iowa, said it is time for a change. The voters felt Senator Obama most represented that possibility for hope. There are still many battles to fight but this was a good win for those that are looking for inspirational leadership instead of the arrogance we have seen over the last 7 sad years of American history. Check out Obama’s victory speech here.
What kind of change do you want in government? There is so much room for improvement; I hardly know where to begin. Here are my 10 most important changes needed in America to make it strong again:
1. Corporate influence in this country must be reduced to a minor roll. Our democracy is in real trouble because of the enormous forces of greed and power. Lobbyist far out number elected officials in Washington DC. That does not work for the benefit of the people.
2. The needs of the people have to become the priority not the needs of the rich. As long as the ordinary citizens are not taken care of, in this country, democracy is in name only.
3. The US must again join the world community as an active and participating member. The arrogance of thinking we are the best is so out of place and damaging to all our relationships.
4. We need cheap available healthcare for every citizen. Unless we take care of our people, we lack the compassion of all the other modern democratic nations..
5. It is way past time to get out of Iraq. Too many on both sides have died for what reason? The endless damage this has done to our nation and to our reputation around the world must now be repaired.
6. The Earth needs our help not our continual neglect. We must now become leaders in the movement to save the planet and save our future. Thinking for future generations is needed beyond the wants of today.
7. The election process needs to change. Money needs to be eliminated as the major influence. Safe and secure voting is essential to keep this a true Democracy. All elections need to be by the majority and the electoral college should to be eliminated.
8. The judicial system needs to be free of partisan politics. We especially need a Federal Court that is about equal justice for all.
9. There is no national religion in this country nor should there be. Ministers and Religious leaders need to get out of trying to influence politics and telling their people how to vote as if they are incapable of making the decisions on their own.
10. We need to all come together and become an inspirational leader of the world by our thinking, our technological innovation, our human potential focused education, our tolerance and understanding, and our ways of the heart and compassionate.
What are your ideas for change in America? How will you get involved to make them happen? Let’s hope the votes for a positive change in America continue.
“Some may say I am a dreamer but I am not the only one.”
John Lennon
Send Yourself Into Orbit By Walking In Nature
The last few days have been very cold around here. In my travels on bike and foot I saw two things in nature that made me take a look and think about the lesson I was being shown. Nature is a great teacher and I wanted to be good student. My first observation was late at night on my meditation walk when I came upon a herd of horses all huddled together near a street light. No this was not downtown, outside a bar, with a bunch of rowdy mustangs. It is in a pasture near where I live and just North of the Community Center. It was 7degrees out and they had come together to keep each other warm. They were all standing there quietly, close by and near the light.
This scene made me think of how smart these horse were to join together to weather the cold. They had gathered to deal with adversity and they were drawn to the light. We humans could learn from that. We need to all come together to deal with the problems we face rather then war with each other. We could make use of our collective wisdom to work out any problems. Standing in the light is the best place to be especially when the forces of darkness like power and greed seem to have such a hold on the world. The combined wisdom and light of human nature is an incredible force for good.
The second nature lesson was Boulder Creek. The weather has been so frigid lately that this full flowing stream is mostly covered in ice. Under the surface is all this current of activity, which only on occasion breaks through to the surface. I saw several places where the stream had burst out and was flowing with an obvious joyous freedom.
Does any of this stream of life sound familiar to you? So much going on and yet so little coming to the surface; or is it the joy of freely expressing who you are? What comes to mind is how much we keep things contained, under the surface. In our self-containment do we miss the realization of untapped potential and the passion of a fully actualized purpose? Isn’t it time we break through the surface and come out into the light of our true brilliance?
Today I would like to invite you to think about who you need to get together with to move into positive action about issues that concern you. Create your own heard of forces.
I would also like to invite that brilliance in you to break through the crust of self-limits and let all that you are surge out into life. Your flow is the place to go; your potential is substantial.
2008 is here and if you are near; please come out to play in the most wonderful way.
I feel some kind of rhyme thing going here but before I go I want to let you know there were two movies I saw lately that might lift you up. The first movie was called Once about some people being uplifted by music and second was called The Astronaut Farmer which will send you sky high. Both films are about following your dreams. This is the year to make your dreams come true.
2008 Is Now Waiting For Your Creation
Welcome to 2008 day two. Are you feeling motivated and excited about this year of opportunity for you? If so, excellent, if not then it is time to get motivated. You are the creator of your life and how you experience it. Sure there are higher forces in play here but those higher forces are in you too. Are you ready to step up and make this year your best ever? If you have been following this blog then you have lots of ideas. I am going to review and remind you of what the key ideas are and then send you out there to make things happen in amazing and wonderful ways.
First start with the idea that you are extraordinary. Any other thoughts in your mind are incorrect; these limiting thoughts are just learned beliefs. Stop any thoughts that are not encouraging and supportive. This means you have to take control of your mind. This doesn’t mean you beat yourself up for thinking poorly. Instead you simply notice limiting thoughts and change them to ones that uplift you, ones that say, “Yes You Can.”
Second is to get your heart and emotions involved. You know you are going the right direction if you feel: purposeful, alive, energized, enthusiastic, passionate, happy, free, focused, inspired, blissful and more. Your precious heart is the source of so many great possibilities in you. Nurture that heart and love everything you can everyday. The more the heart is open, the more you feel the flow, the better things will go. Be passionate and loving of what you do, or do something else that is filled with who you are and what you want to do.
Third listen inward for the guidance that is always there. This blog is often written by my inner guidance, so if it has spark for you, it is because it comes from the same source as your inner knowing. There is in you all you ever need to know, there is the wisdom and insight of all humankind and the Universe. Make a daily, if not moment-to-moment, practice of listening to your higher knowing, your intuition, your Higher Self, God or whatever you sense it to be. Yes I used the word God here because all that you are is Divine. Remember you higher, holy nature is your source for all the good you want and the good you send out into the world.
Now go do it; be the creator; manifest a most incredible 2008 and see yourself one year from now radiant with all your successes. Imagine this year set your life on fire with purpose, passion and prosperity. Imagine this year liberated your heart to love fully each day. Imagine this year was the year you stepped fully into all that you are and now you know the true joy of genuine Self-Realization. You are awesome.
First start with the idea that you are extraordinary. Any other thoughts in your mind are incorrect; these limiting thoughts are just learned beliefs. Stop any thoughts that are not encouraging and supportive. This means you have to take control of your mind. This doesn’t mean you beat yourself up for thinking poorly. Instead you simply notice limiting thoughts and change them to ones that uplift you, ones that say, “Yes You Can.”
Second is to get your heart and emotions involved. You know you are going the right direction if you feel: purposeful, alive, energized, enthusiastic, passionate, happy, free, focused, inspired, blissful and more. Your precious heart is the source of so many great possibilities in you. Nurture that heart and love everything you can everyday. The more the heart is open, the more you feel the flow, the better things will go. Be passionate and loving of what you do, or do something else that is filled with who you are and what you want to do.
Third listen inward for the guidance that is always there. This blog is often written by my inner guidance, so if it has spark for you, it is because it comes from the same source as your inner knowing. There is in you all you ever need to know, there is the wisdom and insight of all humankind and the Universe. Make a daily, if not moment-to-moment, practice of listening to your higher knowing, your intuition, your Higher Self, God or whatever you sense it to be. Yes I used the word God here because all that you are is Divine. Remember you higher, holy nature is your source for all the good you want and the good you send out into the world.
Now go do it; be the creator; manifest a most incredible 2008 and see yourself one year from now radiant with all your successes. Imagine this year set your life on fire with purpose, passion and prosperity. Imagine this year liberated your heart to love fully each day. Imagine this year was the year you stepped fully into all that you are and now you know the true joy of genuine Self-Realization. You are awesome.