Soul-Felt Words: Enjoy the Experience ™

Trust

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 10 Aug 2008 01:06:00 +0000

“Self-trust is the first secret to success." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

Namaste, Dear Friends,

Today marks blog # 101. -- Thank you so much for making this soul-felt journey with me!!

As many of you know, when I first began this ‘blook’ of entries, I was consumed with a lot of fear.

I was afraid to be my Self, because I was fearful people wouldn't accept me for who I really am.

I feared revealing my imperfections might mean being rejected and that being my authentic Self would cause people to think I was weird or crazy or “too out there”...

Yet, my wonderful Maker continued to grant me the courage to push past my continued 'need to please' and to instead face my illusive fears one baby step at a time.

Since then, I have fallen many, many times, yet my Higher Power continued to pick me up and point me in the right direction.

Looking back, I never would have believed my business would be flourishing the way it is today.

I never would have imagined I’d have the genuine friends I do or the gifted ability to touch so many people in such a positive way.

I cannot even tell you how very appreciative I am!!

And, the greatest lesson I’ve learned thus far is that every good blessing begins with trust.

Trust is defined as “hope” and the “confident expectation of something.” (Webster’s)

Trust is stepping out into darkness with faith and knowing that light will appear.

Trust is knowing with certainty that you'll be taken care of...

And, as my spiritual fate would have it, trust is my current theme.

Today my Higher Power is lovingly nudging me to fully trust as I am guided to depart from this blog and to embrace a whole new phase in my business.

I’m now being pulled to create more products, write more inspirational stories, and conduct even more keynotes.

This means the Universe is guiding me to leave this wonderful space behind.

Since I've always been honest with my feelings, I’ll admit to you right now that this isn’t easy.

This blog has made me who I am today...

For the last two years, it’s been a place of transformation, a room for healing, and a haven to safely and openly reveal my inner-Self.

And, though it’s with bitter-sweet feelings that this be my final blog to you, please trust that I'm doing the right thing.

In celebration of my new found path, if you haven't done so already, please sign up for my fun, free E-Parable which includes a complimentary subscription to my Soul-Felt Intentions newsletter.

This will keep us connected.

http://www.soul-felt.com/soul_felt_words.htm

Thank you everyone for your continued belief in me.

I love you all dearly!

I hope to find you walking with me on this new journey, as I trust I'll see you there. ;)

A soul-felt thanks to you!

With Love & Joyous Gratitude, ~Michelle

................

ETE = "Enjoy the Experience"

Choosing the Path of Discernment

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 12:55:00 +0000

“Discernment is learning to listen to and trust your natural knowing.” ~ Author, S. Ryals

Steve and I had an awesome weekend. The weather couldn’t have been more beautiful... a consistent 78 degrees with a soft light breeze.

Thank you everyone for the great cards, emails and well wishes on Monday. They were gratefully received.

Riding our Goldwing through Montana and Wyoming was a wonderful way to spend my birthday this year!

Steve especially enjoyed hopping back into the saddle after working so many hours at work. -- It was uplifting to see him so happy again.

This was our second year participating in the Montana Ride for Hope. Making it an annual tradition feels “right.”

Thanks to everyone who so generously donated. -- This wonderful benefit extends itself in more ways than one... not only for the critically-ill children who are so appreciative to receive but for the riders and contributors who are also so grateful to give.

One rider in particular held a special place in my heart. I couldn’t help but notice her while Steve and I went through the end of the buffet line.

Her rider pins indicated she had been riding for hope for the last six years.

Just as this woman reached the end of the line, she leaned toward me and said, “There’s a reason you and are in line together today. There are no coincidences you know?”

“I believe that is true.” I smiled, though it’s not every day a complete stranger talks so openly to me.

As fate would have it, Steve and I were at the tail end of the line, so the only tables left were with this enlightening woman and her friends.

“I’m Sue,” she winked. “I told you there was a reason we met.”

It turns out Sue is a medical intuitive. She has been gifted with the ability to help others feel good and be healed.

“I can’t just tell people what I see,” she explained. “Because I need their permission first, but for those who don’t ask, I sometimes draw them a map in hopes they’ll find their way.”

The more Sue and I talked, the more I wanted to ask her what she may have been seeing in me, yet the timing was off....or so it seemed.

Unbeknownst to me, Sue was tossing out healing bread crumbs the entire time we ate.

She spoke about spirituality and healing and goodness and light. She talked about her own personal journey and the healing gifts she has so often shared.

The more she spoke, the more her spirit emitted such a positive vibration that I couldn’t help but be drawn to her words like a moth is pulled to a flame.

Then, just as my attention was completely hers, she started to nit pick a bit.

Quickly catching herself, she lightly tapped her mouth then extended her hand in the air.

“Don’t judge it,” she reminded herself aloud, then lovingly continued to speak.

That one act was so visually powerful that it will remain with me for life.

“Don’t judge it!"

To judge means “to decide upon critically.” *

Now, I don’t know about you, but my inner-judge tries very hard to pull out its long black robe, pound its make-believe gavel, and sit upon its superior throne.

It’s as if I’m wearing an invisible sign that reads. 'Ego in charge. Queen for the day.'

Being more consciously aware has certainly helped.... I now understand judging is nothing more than egoic.

It’s a 'mine is better than yours' mentality.

Some of my favorite Highlights magazine sections as a child were the ‘What’s wrong with this picture’ and the ‘Choose the one that doesn’t belong’ games.

I was a pro at picking out “flaws” in a flash... so much so that the habit of judging became engrained in my brain.

Judgment is an instilled reaction. It’s an incessant need to control and to change.

It’s seeing things as they are but wanting them to be another way.

Whether directed inward or outward, judgment creates an illusive dividing wall.

It’s a feeling of ‘I’m right. You’re wrong.’

‘My path is better than yours.’

There are even times we judge our inner-judge.

Ahhhh!

So, what does a person do?

How can we move through life without judging anymore?

The answer is discernment.

To discern means “to perceive by sight or some other sense; to distinguish mentally.”*

In other words, discernment is following your true inner-voice rather than the voice of your Ego.

This is not always easy, I know.

For several years of marriage, I would judge Steve harshly, criticize him cruelly and try my ‘superior’ best to change him.

My Ego couldn’t understand why he did the things he’d do.

Self-Talk would sounds like this...

Why didn’t he love me enough?

Why was he purposely trying to upset me?

Why wouldn’t he change him self for me?

In other words, why was he not becoming more like me?

Take his habit of smoking as an example...

My inner-judge use to label Steve’s habit as “bad,” because I was unable to come to terms with the fact that he was on his own path.

I erroneously believed that a soul-mate meant taking the exact same spiritual journey together, so I continuously tried to change him.

I would beg, plead, threaten and throw out so much guilt that I exhausted my self along the way.

And, the more I resisted, the more Steve persisted.

Then one day, I finally realized that no matter what I did, I’d never be able to change Steve.

He is who he is.

Judging him was getting me no where. It was like being a spinning hamster caught in a wheel.

Rather than resist who Steve was, I needed to allow him to be.

After all, who was I to know what’s best for him?

Granted, judging can be very reactive, so even to this day, every time Steve lights up, I have to consciously break the pattern of judging by choosing discernment instead.

Discernment is not agreement.

I intuitively know smoking is not for me.

Discernment means lovingly knowing the difference between my path and the path of someone else, without putting up barriers or blockades between us.

To discern is to follow what feels right... to allow the Higher Self to lead.

In other words, Steve can be Steve completely...

While, I'll choose the best path for me.

............

ETE - *Source: Webster's

Shapeshifting

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 26 Jul 2008 10:07:00 +0000

“You already possess everything necessary to become great.” ~ Crow

Steve and I are riding out for our motorcycle fundraiser today. The weather is said to reach over 90 degrees.

I’m looking forward to clearing my head.

I’ve hit some murky waters this past week. -- A surge of busyness has caused me to slack on writing my book. so I’ve been playing the “skip one week and then write 15 pages” game.

I’m looking forward to things starting to settle soon.

Being up at the land last weekend was a very wild experience!

I had just built a little campfire and was sitting at the picnic table preparing for a speech when a “Bambi” flew by through the forest, as if it were running for its life.

My immediate instinct was to think something was hot on its trail.

I slowly turned my head, and, there, not even 20 yards away stood a timber wolf.

Its grey, white and black fur-covered body stopped suddenly in its tracks.

“It’s a wolf,” I quietly gasped to Steve. Then, just as quickly as I could, I bolted toward the truck.

Steve instructed Buddy to lie down and to stay. The last thing we needed was for those two dogs to tangle.

The beautiful wolf perked its ears back and cautiously maneuvered its way around the wood pile to see if there was another way through.

No such luck.

Looking despaired, it slowly circled out the same way it came in.

My heart was racing like mad.

This was a mind bending experience!

I could think about nothing else the remainder of the evening.

Wolves symbolize intuition, knowledge and instinct, as well as death, destruction and deceit.

It seems like a complete contradiction.

I began to wonder why.

A few days later, I took Buddy for a walk in the park and fell into deep meditation.

Several magpies flew overhead, reminding me of the constant shift between darkness and light.

A moment later, a flock of crows began to loudly cackle then flew upward toward the trees.

Just like the wolf, crows can be conniving in nature, and each have an uncanny ability to teach us life lessons even through trickery.

Wolves and crows have both virtues and vices, and both represent transformation.

Just like the wolf and the crow, I’ve been feeling myself moving through negative and positive energy as my spirit continues to shapeshift.

Shape is “an assumed appearance.” *

Shift means “to put aside and replace it by another.” *

(*Webster’s)

Spiritual shapeshifting is the ability to positively transform consciousness. Most importantly, it means never allowing your true Self to become stagnant.

You might say, it's purification at its best.

As one becomes more and more spiritually awakened, it's like adding water to a never-ending fish tank.

As the level of our consciousness peacefully rises, the depth of our being expands.

It's a refreshing and renewing experience!

The more we awaken, the more we rise to the top and become closer to the light.

So, why is it that things can sometimes look so dim?

Because trickery comes into play.

Every time a conscious shift occurs, the bottom of our “tank” gets disturbed.

Negative energies and fearful “crud” float to the surface of our mind, creating cloudy and murky waters for awhile.

Thankfully the wolf and the crows were keen enough to remind me of this!

How wonderful it will be when everything settles again :)

..........

ETE - Happy Birthday Uncle Junior :) - P.S. - Please be sure to sign up for the Soul-Felt Intentions e-column in the text box to the upper right.

Totally Worth It!

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 19 Jul 2008 22:19:00 +0000

"Self-worth comes from one thing -- thinking you are worthy." ~ Dr. Wayne Dyer

It’s been a beautiful consistent 80+ degrees, and, oh, how I’m loving July! There’s always so much to do.

Steve and I are sneaking up to the property tonight to take in a little R&R. It will be good to bond with the land once again.

Things have been crazy busy, but in a very good way.

I just finished another article for a local magazine, continue to partner with like-minded people, and am getting ready to present to a great group of entrepreneurs next week.

Yesterday was really fun as well. I presented a 90 minute keynote to a large group of bankers -many of whom traveled a great distance to attend.

The night before the big speech, I was invited to a cocktail party so I could get to know my attendees a little better.

They were all a wonderful crowd, and the more I chatted with them, the more I felt at home. -- That is, until it came time to leave...

I was saying my round of goodbyes to everyone, promising to see them in the morning, when a stern looking banker wagged his finger at me and barked,

“You better be good. We paid a lot of money to see you, so you better be worth it.”

“Okay,” I forcefully smiled as I backed my way out of the room.

As soon as I reached the hotel’s foyer, my brain began to uncoil.

My Ego snapped loudly in my ear...

What if you’re not any good? What if you’re really not worth it? What if all of your practice and rehearsal is still not enough? Then what?

I walked out to the parking lot, inhaled the mountain air and reminded my Self that how I do will be dependent on how I feel.

I put a smile on my face and rehearsed the whole car ride home.

When I walked into the house, Steve sweetly asked, “Are you ready for your big day tomorrow?”

“Yes. I’m ready,” I enthusiastically replied, though my reluctant Ego’s words still echoed in my head.

I escaped to the family room for awhile and curled up in a chair. I began to visualize my entire presentation going well from start to finish. -- It appeased me enough to sleep.

I awoke very early the next day, laid out my clothes, and began to rehearse once again.

Though I felt confident in my abilities and knew my material well, the words, “You better be worth it” lingered in my brain.-- It was as if someone were hitting a replay button again and again.

I had only a few minutes remaining before it was time to get dressed, so I set my speech aside, walked out onto the patio and began to meditate.

The cool morning breeze cleared my head and filled me with the Divine.

God, why am I questioning my Self?

My eyes began to flutter just as my answer (a question) was revealed.

Why do you seek out worthiness?

I thought about this a moment, but nothing more came to mind, and I didn’t want to be late.

Forty minutes later, I arrived at the hotel, made sure my equipment was working and greeted the event planner in the hall.

Not long after, I was being introduced. I used those precious few minutes to scan the crowd. There was no sign of the man who had challenged me the night before.

I exhaled a sigh of relief and walked to the front of the room.

“Good morning everyone,” I announced with a smile and then continued with the talk.

Just a few minutes later, the stern-looking man walked in. -- He was holding a cup of coffee and seated himself in center aisle.

As synchronicity would have it, at the same time, I began telling a story about a woman named Sara.

“Sara was in the habit of looking outside of herself to define her Self,” I remarked.

Then, as soon as my own words left my mouth, I knew they were intended for me.

It was then I realized that for whatever reason, I had been “seeking out” answers rather than allowing my internal worth to shine.

As I glanced across the room, the stern man didn’t look so stern anymore. -- In fact, he was glowing from within.

It was as if I had recognized a piece of my Self and valued its beauty once again.

Once my speech ended, the man approached me with a smile.

“Great job,” he beamed.

"Thank you for being here," I said. -- If he only had known how much I meant it.

This man was placed in my life for a reason. He was there to remind me that self-worth is not dependent on anything of the external world.

Self-worth is “the sense of one’s own worth as a person”*

Worth is defined as “good or important enough to justify.”*

Having a 'sense' of self-worth means “a mental discernment, realization or recognition.”*

(*Webster’s)

When we question whether we’re worth it or not, we’re viewing the world through Ego’s eyes and will often fall short and not amount to much.

True self-worth comes from authenticity. It cannot be measured in space or time.

So, recognize your Self and embrace your internal being.

Your internal treasure awaits!

...........

ETE - Happy Birthday tomorrow Tania!!

Mirroring Reflections

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 00:12:00 +0000

“Mirrors to our inner-self are often reflected by others.” ~ Michelle Skaletski-Boyd

This past Sunday, Steve and I took Buddy out on the canoe. It was our first venture “paddle” since last September.

As we gently floated across the crystal clear lake, a beautiful bald eagle spread its wings and soared peacefully from tree top to shore.

We watched as it gathered food and then flew peacefully back toward the clouds. Its beautiful black and white toned body glided freely toward the tree tops as our eye sight adjusted to the light.

“Look at the nest,” I loudly whispered as I carefully turned toward Steve.

He returned my smile with a nod.

We both pulled up our paddles and allowed the canoe to drift free.

The amazing eagle once again emerged from the crown of the trees and flew to a nearby branch.

My eyes fixated on its nest as a dark brown mottled head poked up from its circular twigged retreat just as its long flight feathered wings began to flap furiously in the air.

It was as if I was watching a scene from National Geographic. It was an amazing experience by far.

This baby eaglet must have been at least six weeks old; it was nearly as big as its parent.

Seeing that baby eaglet reminded me of the story about a farmer who was walking across his land just after a windy storm when he discovered an eagle’s egg lying in the grass.

The farmer gently lifted the warm egg to his hands then carefully carried it to the barn where he placed it beneath a setting hen.

A few days later, a little eaglet hatched.

It mimicked the chicks by pecking about the farmyard and rarely looking up.

One day, the little eaglet was out scrambling for feed when Father Eagle flew by.

He noticed his baby eaglet, quickly circled back and gave out a very loud screech.

“What are you doing down there?” Father Eagle called to his son. “You are not a chicken. You are an eagle. Eagles are not made to live in a barnyard. Eagles are meant to fly. The heavens are your domain. Come up here with me.”

The little eaglet was very scared. He believed he was a chicken after all.

But, Father Eagle urged him to jump up and flap his wings.

“You can fly if you try,” he insisted.

The little eaglet gave it his all, flapping his wings so hard he landed just outside of the coop.

Father Eagle continued screeching words of encouragement.

“You can do it. Jump higher,” he yelled. “Spread your wings and fly.”

The little eaglet did what father said, and by a mighty jump of faith stretched his wings and soared.

........

This story is an enlightening reminder of the many reflections in our life.

Just as the chicks low to the ground and Father Eagle high in the sky mirrored the inner-most feelings of the eaglet, people around us are powerful reflections of our self.

All this week, I was reminded of this, as individuals came forward to reflect my inner-beauty and to mirror my illusive fears.

A mirror is “a reflecting surface; something that gives a minutely faithful representation, image or idea of something else.” (Webster’s)

Author, Shakti Gawain writes, “The people in our lives who make us feel uncomfortable, who annoy us, who we feel judgmental or even combative toward, reflect parts of ourselves that we reject – usually aspects of our disowned selves - the shadow side of our personality.”

All creatures of this world are optical images of our being. -- Sometimes we see all of our fears while other times we’re reminded we can fly.

................

ETE - Sign up for another fun, E-Parable at the text box in the upper-right.

Facing Transformation

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 05 Jul 2008 17:00:00 +0000

"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty." ~ Maya Angelou

Just before dinner yesterday the grey sky opened wide and poured buckets of rain so hard and so fast that it sounded like the grand finale of a fireworks show.

Beautiful bolts of lightning shot across the sky as small gravel sized hail bounced rapidly off the deck just like an exploding pack of firecrackers.

What a wonderful surprise from Mother Nature!

Happy July Everyone! I hope you had a spectacular 4th!

As Steve and I lit our pack of sparklers from the back deck last night, waving them high through the air, I said a silent prayer thanking my Maker for my spiritual freedom.

To be independent means "thinking or acting for oneself; not influenced or controlled by others in matters of opinion or conduct; self-confident." (Webster's)

Butterflies have surrounded me this week. A true sign more transition is near.

My self-confidence continues to soar as more business opportunities unfold.

Native Americans believe God's creatures are the medicine for the soul saying the butterfly is a symbol of transformation.

How very true this is!

The last time I saw a butterfly was just a few weeks before moving to the mountains. I was back on the farm in Wisconsin staring through my upstairs window at the tiny luminiscent creature peacefully perched on our roof top with its uplifted wings to the sky.

It was then I knew it was my time to fly.

Now, a year and a half later, just like a butterfly, I've had to learn to trust transition.

Though I'm getting much better than I've ever been before, seeing so many butterflies this week has caused me to wonder... "What's around the corner?"

Hopefully all that the butterfly represents: freedom, beauty and changes for the better!

.........

ETE - Happy Birthday Kristin! :)

Knowing When to Say "When"

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 28 Jun 2008 16:45:00 +0000

"It's not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are." - Roy Disney

It’s Summer time and the weather's scorching hot.

Between yard work and house work and business work, I have been craving meditation like mad.

Come Thursday, I could practically taste it.

My internal well was dry.

I was feeling mighty thirsty for the truth and knew the only cure would be to go deep within in order to replenish again.

I had just finished an appointment in the city when my soul began hungering stillness. It felt just like my stomach hungering food only the longing was nearer to my heart.

It had been quite some time since I had experienced that feeling. -- A spiritual emptiness for sure.

Ignoring it or searching outward would have only made it worse, so I allowed my intuition to guide me, and that it did! -- My vehicle practically steered itself through the back roads of the city.

Instincts led me to a community park that I had never seen before.

It was beautifully positioned on the banks of the Stillwater River, and the blowing cottonwoods resembled another snow in June.

What a wonderful surprise!

Just like an excited child, I skipped playfully down to the shore and was happy to discover several piles of boulders positioned perfectly in the sand.

I sat on the flattest rock I could find, kicked off my flip flops and dangled my toes in the tickling stream.

The sun was hot and the breeze was cool. Tranquility and serenity were one.

I closed my eyes and began to reflect.

I had been presented with several opportunities this week, and for the first time since starting my business I had chosen to say "no".

I was starting to second guess my Self.

Earlier in the week I had been asked to partake in a huge joint venture. My Ego was chomping at the bit. The partnership would have put me side-by-side with some big named authors, yet our messages weren’t spiritually in sync.

And, so I reluctantly declined.

That very same week I turned down an offer to speak on a topic about a message not true to my core.

Though Steve urged me to take the position because the money was good, I just couldn't pretend to be someone I was not.

I began to wonder... Was this the wrong decision?

As I peered out over the water, hundreds of seeds of cottonwood parachuted from the trees to the waves as my Higher Power’s words flowed freely through me.

You’re full stream ahead.

Yield when necessary; Comply only when you’re sure.

I began to grin.

To comply means “to act or be in accordance with wishes; to agree” (Webster’s)

Freewill can be tough. -- It's like being at an eye exam with choices right up in your face.

The Universe plays the role of your Optometrist simply trying to help you see more clearly no matter how uncomfortable it may be.

“Which do you prefer... A? or B?" -- "This one? or That one?"

Choosing should be easy, yet sometimes it is not.

This is when we need to rely on instinct to help us lead the way.

As my friend Coach Johns likes to say, “it’s okay to try things on for size (this is to yield/consider), yet it doesn't mean you need to own it."

Compliance is agreement.

When we opt to take on too much, we are blocking the good things that are meant to come our way.

I’m Michelle Skaletski-Boyd, and my personal mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of others by helping them remain connected to their Highest Self.

My focus is clear and with this I can comply.

..................

ETE - Sign up for a fun, free E-Parable at the text box to the right and receive a complimentary subscription to the Soul-Felt Intentions newletter.

Learning the Ropes

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:37:00 +0000

(Photo compliments of my friend Ron) “You must do the things you think you cannot do.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

I’ve been much more joyfully curious and appreciatively accepting this week.

Steve and I awoke on Sunday and agreed to head up to the beautiful Kootenai National Forest.

After sharing a plateful of scrambled eggs and a piece of buttered toast, we jumped on the Goldwing and braved the cool morning weather.

Brisk winds pushed us toward the Cabinet Mountain range as our chilly bodies became slowly warmed by the sun.

It was one breathtaking snapshot after another: a spectacular ride across the 2400+ ft. Lake Koocanusa bridge, a mountainous panoramic view of the Idaho, Montana & Canadian borders; and a colorful rainbow trellis peaking through the crystal waters of the Yaak River Falls.

It was beauty at its best and a great warm up trip for our upcoming fundraising Ride for Hope next month.

Just a few days later, I joined a group of 11 from the resort for a fun trek in the trees. I had no idea what to expect. I only was told to dress in comfortable hiking gear.

Imagine my surprise when three outdoor guides brought us to a training camp, partnered us up, fitted us with climbing gear and told us to practice belaying from one “pretend” tree to another.

As I tightened the safety harness around my waist and thighs, nervous energy began to build amongst the group.

What was I getting myself into now?

“Just be sure you work together as a team.” a guide advised.

I made a mental note of it as we hiked up a ½ mile trail and stopped at a man-made ladder in the middle of the woods.

I looked up to see several 2-by-4’s suspended side-by-side creating a 700 foot boardwalk connected by cables that hung from tree to tree.

“Our job is to safely get across,” a second guide said.

“When you step down it’s going to feel like you’re walking on a boat floating in water,” the third one added.

The resort's Sales Manager nervously took her first step onto the swaying bridge and “clipped in,” as they say.

“Ahhh,” she shrieked as her knees began to buckle. “This is bloody ridiculous.”

My partner, Terry, began to tremble.

“I’m scared,” she said, turning her face to me and the two guys that followed behind.

I cupped her face gently in my hands.

“Terry” I insisted. “You’re just excited. You’re not scared.”

“You’re just excited,” I repeated. “Now keep telling yourself that, because we need to get across.”

Terry gulped then courageously nodded.

She lifted herself onto the platform and extended her first crab claw out toward the cable.

“Yellow on belay,” she quavered.

“Belay on,” I confirmed. “You’re doing great.”

Once Terry’s ropes were securely fastened, I hoisted myself up and took my first step onto one of the oscillating boards.

Just as the guide had instructed, it began to swing under foot.

Inexperienced climbers are often called “gumby’s,” but I felt more like a bird that had just overindulged in the fermented fruits of the mountain ash berry trees...

Talk about a drunken feeling!

Terry grimaced from up ahead. -- A dangling steel cable had snagged her perched sunglasses from right off her head.

I watched as they plummeted over 50 feet to the ground.

“Breathe in the nose and breathe out the mouth,” I urged.

Belay on. Belay off.

Higher and higher we went until we were suspended 70 feet in the air.

As I pulled myself up the last ascending ramp, one of the two guys behind us thought it would be funny to start jumping up and down.

The boards became so unbalanced I could barely keep a steady grip.

Somehow Terry managed to traverse to the highest platform and then got brave enough to turn around and start jumping back.

I was monkey in the middle of a flimsy floored teeter totter, and the inclining wobble was so steep that I was at the end of my rope (literally!)

The jolt of each jump pulled my safety harness tighter and tighter until I was nearly lifted off my feet.

“That’s enough please,” I pleaded as I yanked at the rope riding up my crotch. “I feel like I’m being split in half.”

The two kept laughing and jumping, when suddenly a plank beneath our feet abruptly busted off the nearest tree!

Crrrack!!

Terry began to scream.

A guide in front of us started shouting that there was nothing to worry about, as the “jokester” behind me stopped frozen in his tracks.

Surprisingly, I remained calm.

Perhaps I was just in shock?

When were were safely back on the ground, Terry addressed me to the group, “I watched you when that board broke, Michelle, and you didn’t even yell. -- You just stood there like everything was fine.”

I couldn’t help but smile.

Had this happened even three years ago, I would have seriously screamed my head off and then started madly crying and going into a panic attack.

I would have fallen to my knees and crazily envisioned my body crashing beneath the trees. -- The only way to get me down would have been to pry me from the boards.

My, how far I’ve come!

It’s difficult to even put this into words.

Though the word fearless seemed a bit fitting for this experience, my Higher Power tells me I was “an intrepid spirit” that day.

Intrepid means “resolutely fearless” -- Resolutely means “set in purpose; characterized by firmness and determination, as the spirit, temper, actions, etc.” (Webster’s)

I'm very much enjoying this new me!

...........

ETE

Destination Unknown

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 16:16:00 +0000

When you walk to the edge of all the light you have and take that first step into the darkness of the unknown, you must believe that one of two things will happen: There will be something solid for you to stand upon, or, you will be taught how to fly. ~ Poet, Patrick Overton

Father’s Day weekend forecast predicts bright sunny skies over the next five days.

What a drastic change compared to Tuesday’s winter storm advisory that dumped 3 - 10 inches of snow across the mountainous valley this week.

Imagine the school kids surprise when they woke to a lawn covered in nature’s frosted flakes on the first day of their summer vacation.

What a reminder of how unpredictable life can be!

I am definitely learning to be more tolerant of these things... I use to get very upset when things didn’t go as planned.

I would calendar all of my dates in permanent ink.

Back then, Steve’s “fly-by-the-seat of his pants” spontaneous side was exactly just the opposite.

“Let’s just wing it,” he’d say.

“Are you kidding?” I’d bellow with my pen behind my ear, one hand on my hip, and the other clutching my calendar.

“I need to plan!”

I was completely consumed by the need to be in control. It was important I knew everything ahead of time so I could precisely plan. -- Everything I did was calculated with careful consideration at every given turn.

I was one of those people who needed to know exactly where we’d be sleeping and where we’d be eating on every given road trip and every vacation destination.

“Who cares!” Steve would say. “We’ll sleep in the car if we need to, and our bodies can go for days without food.”

I use to get so mad. -- It’s quite amazing we’re still together. ;) LOL

Nearly 17 years later and the tables have turned.

Steve is now the one who seems to need to know.

Imagine my amusement this past Wednesday just before dinner when Steve asked, “Do you want to go to our land or take a motorcycle trip this Sunday?”

“Let’s just play it by ear,” I smiled.

His face became very serious then.

“Well, Michelle, I’d like to plan,” he declared.

My cackle could be heard for miles.

I “busted a gut” you might say.

Never in a million years did I think Steve would be the planner and I’d be the spur-of-the-moment one in the relationship.

Our friend Susan, a certified counselor, says we’re the true “Yin and the Yang.”

She says there are stages throughout any relationship in which roles flip and turn so that balance can be maintained in the relationship as both individuals transform.

How beautiful is that!

When we befriend the unknown, we make peace with the present moment.

“Now” appears in the word unknown for a reason.

Unknown means “not within the range of one's understanding.” (Webster’s)

The “now” has not yet come.

Now means “at the present time or moment.” (Webster’s)

This is the only “is” there is.

·Will we go to the land tomorrow or take a motorcycle trip? ·Will it snow again this summer or remain warm and sunny? ·Will my book get published or won’t it? ·Will Steve and I be parents or not?

I’m lovingly embracing the unknown, and, oh, how it feels so great!!

.....................

ETE - Happy 5th Wedding Anniversary Matt & Tania -and- Happy Father’s Day to all of you Dad’s out there!!

Spiritual Pulls Tell All

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 17:41:00 +0000

“True love cannot be seen by the eyes, but only felt by the spirit.” ~ Michelle Skaletski-Boyd

Life threw us a curve ball, and my first reaction was to lie down and cry.

Steve and I were told this week that Cynthia is to remain with her birth parent now, per a ruling by the Attorney General’s office.

When I first heard the news I could feel my heart cracking as it tumbled into millions of shattered pieces full of “why me’s” and “what if’s.”

Sadness immediately consumed me as my once shining internal sun fell sullenly behind its horizon.

My journal became my escape, allowing me to dive head-first into every page as I cried, and I sulked, and I questioned my faith.

My cycle of grief lasted two full days.

My breaking point was on Thursday morning when I headed to the city for an appointment with my friend, Debbie, who is a licensed esthetician.

I was scheduled to see her for a brow shaping treatment, but what I received was so much more.

Debbie and I have talked about adoption many times. She, herself, was adopted when she was only 5-1/2 years old, so she was naturally curious to know how things had been progressing since our last appointment.

“What’s new with that little girl?” she asked as she applied hot wax to the ridge above my eye.

I began to choke up as I explained the situation and was unable to hold back my tears.

“I’m sorry,” I said, “You’re the first person I’ve talked to about this, other than Steve.”

“It’s okay,” Debbie reassured.

“I’ve never been pregnant before,” I said, “but it feels like I miscarried somehow, and I feel so silly really. I painted her room, told all my family and friends and even went out and bought gifts just for her.”

Debbie lovingly put her hand on mine.

“Never buy gifts until after the child moves in with you,” she advised, “but, now that you have, make sure the gifts go to her since they were meant for her.”

“Okay,” I agreed.

Debbie went on to say that women, in particular, dream of fairy tale endings; however, when it comes to adoption, the real test is whether or not there’s true love.

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“Do you remember the feeling you had when you first met your husband?” she inquired.

“Yes,” I replied, smiling for the first time that day. Reminiscent chills fluttered up my spine.

"Did you have that same love-at-first-sight feeling with this little girl?”

“No," I truthfully admitted.

“When it’s meant to be, you will,” she insisted. “I got it with my adopted parents, and they got it with me.

Without it, you’re just feeling sorry for the child or falling in love with the idea. -- Either way, it’s not the same.

Having those strong magical feelings upfront is what gets you through the tough times no matter what."

Debbie was right. How could I have forgotten my own advice?

I had taken a leap of faith, but had not looked for the true signs and symbols to tell me this was “it.”

I went for a walk with Buddy yesterday to finally clear my head.

It was lightly raining, and the sweet fragrance of the lilac trees filled my entire being as I began meditation.

Why has this happened, Lord?

He gently whispered...

You allowed your imagination to get carried away.

I wasn't sure what He meant at that point, but now it's come fully to light.

Imagination means “the act or power of forming a mental image of something not present to the senses or never before wholly perceived in reality.” (Webster's)

My imagination got carried away because I jumped at the first opportunity that came along without receiving a strong internal knowing.

It was just like going to the Junior Girls' prom knowing full well my date was a jerk. -- I had merely gotten swept up in the idea of it all.

Our intentions of adopting are good; however, it's important I not get hung up in the fairytale, because without a spiritual pull, the pumpkin is just a pumpkin.

My happy ending and magical carriage await.

Another lesson learned.

....................

ETE - Thank you for your loving insight, Debbie! Sign up for your complimentary E-Column at http://www.soul-felt.com/

Committed

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 31 May 2008 19:39:00 +0000

“There’s a difference between interest and commitment. When you’re interested in doing something, you do it only when circumstances permit. When you’re committed to something, you accept no excuses, only results.” ~ Unknown

It’s been over a year since I announced my desire to begin writing my book.

Though I have a strong passion to make a positive difference in this world, lack of commitment on my part is causing my battery to drain.

It’s time for a serious jump start.

Commit means “to give in trust;” “to pledge or engage oneself.” (Webster's)

I hadn’t realized the importance of commitment until I was meditating recently near the fast flowing river.

Record snowfalls combined with sunny temps have caused the river to roar. -- The once clear blue waters have now turned to roily, restless whitecaps.

My eyes were fixated on the steady rhythmic beating of each wave as I fell deeper and deeper into a subconscious state.

My Higher Power diverted my attention away from the current and to the river’s edge.

My eyes fell upon a floating limb caught in a sluggish eddy.

It was aimlessly drifting between two fallen trees.

Then, nature’s Creator proclaimed,

You are like the limb, clinging with little result.

Be like the water instead, and trust the steady flow.

My opportunity to write is now.

Gone are the days of excuses and exceptions.

Beginning Monday June 2nd, 2008, I, Michelle Skaletski-Boyd commit my Self to getting up early every morning to write at least one book page per day with the goal of having my book proposal completed by autumn of this year.

With progression comes commitment, and with commitment comes possible risk.

I realize now that I'm sitting at a fork in the bend.

Once I jump in, there will be no turning back. I will be leaving my present comfort zone and heading in a new direction.

I can already feel the change.

Not only will I focus more on my book, but I’ll also give more attention to bringing a child into my life.

Yes. Steve and I were contacted by a state social worker last week telling us we’ve been matched with a six year old girl.

For reasons of confidentiality, we’ll call this little girl, Cynthia.

And, though it’s not official yet, my husband and I are being asked to commit ourselves to foster care parenting with the intention to adopt.

I’m ecstatic and afraid and in shock.

Everything’s happening so fast, and the scariest thing is that at any given moment Cynthia could be reunited with her birth parent.

My fears have pulled me toward clinging to safety, yet instinct tells me it’s time to take the plunge.

Though it may be weeks yet before Cynthia moves into our home, Steve and I got the chance to meet with her earlier in the week.

It was one of the happiest days of my life!!

She was like a little light that lit up the room with a tiny small giggle attached.

After playing a game of Candy Land, Cynthia turned toward Steve and said, “You want me to come live with you, don’t you?”

Steve’s smile burst wide open.

“What did you say?” he grinned.

“Oh...nothing,” she retracted with a snicker. Then, she buried her face in her hands.

“Do you want to come live with us?” Steve quizzed.

“Yes.” she giggled.

I began to smile.

“Are you sure?” I teased. “We have lots and lots of rules.”

“I can follow rules.” she pleaded. “I can make my bed and pick up my toys...” (the list went on and on)

“Okay," I said. “But there’s one really important rule that is the grandest rule of all.”

“What is it?” Cynthia shrieked. “Tell me. Tell me please.”

“You have to give really good hugs.”

Cynthia’s eyes grew wide with excitement.

“Really strong ones?” she screeched.

“Yep,” I smiled.

It was as though Cynthia’s feet couldn’t move fast enough.

Her strawberry shortcake body darted right into my lap as she wrapped her loving arms tightly around my neck.

I was barely able to hold back the tears.

Though I had promised myself I’d remain guarded so as not to get hurt, at that very moment, my heart melted.

There was no going back.

It's now a leap of faith.

.................

ETE - Please go to http://www.soul-felt.com to learn more about me and to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable.

Being Still

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 24 May 2008 14:22:00 +0000

" Silence is sometimes the answer." ~ Estonian Proverb

In honor of Memorial Day weekend, Steve and I are heading up north to our property to soak in some silence for awhile.

I love being one with nature and long to hear the elongated lodge poles swaying in the breeze and see the mesmerizing flames of the campfire dance against the darkness of the sky.

I am so fortunate to have all of you in my life. Thank you for spending time with me -- if only for a moment.

Change can happen very fast. We’re here one moment and gone in the next. Healthy loved ones may turn ill. Strong companions may turn weak. New lives are born, while former lives may end.

It’s the circle of life in an instant.

Wherever you go, wherever you may be, I encourage you to partake in grateful prayer and positive meditation this holiday weekend.

Reflect on the past five years of your life.

This is how long America's been at war with over 1 million total causalities to date.

Be appreciative of your life, while honoring those who serve.

Think strongly about your right to vote in this upcoming November election.

Put some thought into where you’d like this country to evolve.

And, stand in the light, fully aware and awakened by each loving, soul-felt intention.

Silence is “stillness” and “to put (doubts, fears, etc.) to rest” (Webster’s)

Spend some time in reflective silence this weekend, and remember who you are.

It will make all the difference in the world.

......................

ETE

Damming Your Self?

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 17 May 2008 15:34:00 +0000

"The first step to change is awareness. The second step is acceptance." ~ Nathaniel Branden

I spent most of last week unconscious of my own resistance. I could feel myself struggling with so many things.

It was as if personal awareness had been hi-jacked by my Ego, leaving me with no memory of presence at all.

It started with a mental struggle when I learned that my new online newsletter software was less reliable than the first.

After spending hours converting over to a new system, I begrudgingly learned that I could no longer communicate to over half of my online subscribers.

My only choice was to learn from the experience and reinstall another system once again.

Yet, I did it with much resistance.

Rather than allow things to be what they were, I started losing a lot of sleep over it.

What would people think?
How incompetent this looked.
Why couldn’t things be easier?

On and on it went.

I was completely consumed in fearful thoughts and became very frustrated and upset.

My blindness to the truth caused me to be so unaware, that my sneaky Ego was feeding off the pain.

All of the signs were there.

I was sneezing and tired and cranky and irritable and completely stuck inside my head.

If only I had taken a moment to be present and allowed things to "be" while accepting them for what they are.

Acceptance is "the act of taking or receiving something offered"; "favorable reception." (Webster's)

The problem was, I wasn't willingly receiving that which life had to offer. -- Instead, I was trying to stop the inevitable like a charging bull ramming its head at every circumstance and depleting myself of all energy.

It wasn't until dinner one evening that I finally became conscious again.

“You woke me in the middle of the night saying ‘Dam, Dam, Dam’ over and over again,” Steve announced.

“I did?” I embarrassingly giggled. “What was that about?”

“You’re obviously stressing out.”

Was this the reason I had come down with a horrible head cold and felt like my sinuses were going to explode?

Was this why every little thing Steve did lately was grating on my nerves?

Was this because I had made no time at all this week for meditation?

Just asking my Self these three questions pulled me back to center.

Yes. Buddy’s recovery had become my “excuse” to give up on my daily walks, and, yes, negative thoughts had become so consuming that I had fallen sick with a cold.

Even sitting quietly in a chair lately had become too much of a chore.

Steve began clearing the table when suddenly I felt very compelled to stand with my arms akimbo and my head held high.

I walked to the center of the room and twirled myself in a circle around the shiny laminate floor.

A tremendous wave of pent up energy moved through my Being as my Higher Power spoke these words aloud,

“Stop damming your Self and move out of the way!”

The voice was my own, but the words were not. They shot through me like a cannon ball, and I didn’t know whether to laugh or to cry.

“When you feel dammed, it’s because you’ve become one,” I consciously declared.

Steve's eyes glistened, as he knowingly smiled.

What a beautiful lesson of the week!

.............

ETE - If you've already signed up for the fun, free E-Parable, thank you for your patience. I’ve finally gotten out of my way ;)

The Object of My Affection

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 10 May 2008 14:46:00 +0000

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." ~ Roger Caras

What crazy weather we’ve had this month.

Yesterday brought chilling snow flurries all morning long, and today’s highs are barely reaching 60 degrees.

Though I know I’d feel better if I went out for a walk, not having my walking “Buddy” around has given me so many reasons to be lazy.

Yes, our golden retriever, Buddy, is out of remission for awhile. A few weeks back, the side of his face became very swollen, and his entire right cheek was strangely deformed - as if bitten by an insect.

Though the swelling went down temporarily, it was stubbornly determined to stay.

I brought Buddy to the vet two days ago.

Steve and I were told he was suffering from an abscessed tooth. – That would certainly explain his sudden raunchy breath, but even more disturbing, we learned that several small growths on his body, called mast cell tumors, were serious enough to be malignant.

Yes, possibly the big “C” word. -- Cancer.

This was devastating news.

Buddy is going on 9 years old and is the smartest dog I’ve ever known. What I admire about him is that no matter what kind of mood I’m in, he’s always there to wag his tail and love me no matter what.

I can walk with this dog for miles without putting him on a leash; he knows how to heal on command. Buddy's been a wonderful motivator, because he gives me a reason to walk, run, and play ball in the park. -- I love that he keeps me energized and young.

And, though sometimes he can be a bit of a mooch (hee-hee), not having Buddy around on Thursday created a sudden void in my world. – One in which I wasn’t ready to face.

Though Steve and I have always joked with one another about how both of our pets are “just” a dog and “just” a cat, they are the closest thing to children we have ever come to know.

Therefore, naturally, when we learned Buddy would need to have immediate surgery, it only took a moment before Steve and I agreed he was definitely worth footing the hefty medical bill.

What is it about our pets that cause us to open our wallets and spend more on them than we do on ourselves?

For me, it’s Buddy’s enormous capacity to offer such unselfish loyalty and benevolent affection no matter what.

His intuitive gifts are remarkable. -- He has this profound ability to make me feel needed even when I’m fully absorbed in my work -- Be it his bouncing rubber ball dropped at my feet or his long impatient sigh alerting me that our walk for the day is long overdue; Buddy has won over my heart.

Affection is defined as “a fond attachment, devotion, or love.” (Webster’s)

When Buddy underwent surgery two days ago, a pool of affection formed deep in my heart.

Now back home, Bud's recovering well, and sad but true, Steve and I were told that if the tumors on his body are indeed malignant, even chemotherapy won’t help.

Looking into his groggy eyes that day, I cupped Buddy's furry face in my hands and gently kissed the tip of his nose.

“I love you, Bud,” I whispered, “and if you do have cancer, I don’t want to know.”

Buddy affectionately wagged his tail. -- We were fully in agreement.

Things We Can Learn From A Dog
1. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
2. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
3. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
4. When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
5. Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
6. Take naps & stretch before rising.
7. Run, romp & play daily.
8. Eat with gusto & enthusiasm.
9. Be Loyal.
10. Never pretend to be something you're not.
11. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
12. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by & nuzzle them gently.
13. Thrive on attention & let people touch you.
14. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
15. On hot days, drink lots of water & lay under a shady tree.
16. When you're happy, dance around & wag your entire body.
17. No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing & pout. -- Run right back and make friends.
18. Bond with your pack.
19. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

~Author Unknown

...................................

ETE – Sign up for your fun, free E-Parable (inspired by, you guessed it... my wonderful dog Buddy!) - http://www.soulfelt.com

A Spiritual Detour

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 03 May 2008 16:16:00 +0000

Throughout the week, my spiritual path has led me to some pretty big barriers.

I could feel stress take over my body like an invasive parasite.

Each unfinished project felt like a heavy stack of bodily bricks.

I had swollen glands, a tense jaw, knotted shoulders and a stiffening neck.

It wasn’t until I was talking to my friend, Victory, that things finally started becoming clear.

“How are you able to juggle all of your projects without having a coronary,” I teased.

“I use to hang on to all my ideas until everything was perfect,” Victory admitted, “But, what I came to realize is that nothing ever is.”

Things would pile up, and I’d get more and more stressed. Then, one day I was talking to my personal coach who said, ‘Don’t get it right. Just get it going.’

I’ve lived by these words every since.”

“I can use that,” I smiled.

“I’m glad,” Victory said. “Whenever you get inspired, move along on your project as far as you can go and then release it and see where it goes.”

I began to practice this concept the very next day.

My business was transferring my website over to a new web host provider, and things weren’t going very smoothly...

Domains were pointing to the wrong pages, databases were down and people were calling to tell me emails were bouncing left and right.

I could feel the stress beginning to bubble. But, then I remembered to simply allow it to be.

Obstacles appear on our spiritual path for a reason.

They're here to serve us in a positive way.

Once I began to see this perceived "negative" energy differently, I was able to treat it like a friend.

Had I done everything I could possibly do in this very moment?

Yes, indeed.

I had contacted my old and new web host providers alerting them to the issue, and I had thanked everyone who called and politely explained the situation.

Yet,wait.

There was still one more thing...

It was important I find the joy in the moment.

I stepped outside into the warm radiant sun then inhaled deeply to freely look within.

Soon, a spiritual detour appeared and a new way of thinking emerged.

Though not yet perfect, simply getting a revised website online has caused my business so much traffic momentum that people are now alerting me when my website is down.

This is a very good thing!

A detour is “a round about or circuitous way or course, especially one used temporarily when the main route is closed.” (Webster’s)

And so the lesson goes, when something doesn’t go exactly as it should, take a spiritual detour in your mind, allow things to be as they are, and see the positive purpose in every obstacle because it’s there to serve you well.

May you have joy on your journey and peace on your mind!

...................................

ETE – Happy 13th on Cinco de Mayo, Jakers!! -- Sign up for your fun, free E-Parable directly from this page and receive our complimentary E-Column called Soul-Felt Intentions.

The Choice is Clear

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 23:50:00 +0000

"We have to believe in freewill. We've got no choice.” ~Nobel prize winner, Isaac Bashevis Singer

I decided to start today's blog out with this funny quote.

It was my free choice to make, and I'm sticking to it! ;)

Freewill means “based on our own accord,” and accord means “to be in harmony; agreement.” (Webster’s)

Thus, having freewill is having harmony with our Self and feeling good about our choices and our decisions. And though we don’t always get what we want, we do always get a choice in our reaction.

In other words, even when there are obstacles, we’re able to decide mentally, physically, spiritually &/or intellectually what we’ll choose as our very next move.

My friend, Joanne, and I had a conversation that was centered around freewill just this past Thursday.

We had agreed to meet in downtown Spokane which is where Joanne lives and where I had been for a keynote speech that I had delivered at the historical and beautiful Davenport Hotel.

Since we were both getting off work around the same time, we agreed to meet for happy hour at the downtown mall.

The last time we spoke, Joanne’s inner-voice had been persistently reminding her that she needs to quit her nursing job and pursue her dream of being a photographer, so I was very anxious to learn of her decision.

“Well?” I prompted, “What’s going on with your job situation?”

“I told the hospital they may want to start looking for my replacement,” Joanne beamed.

“Congratulations!” I cheered.

She began to smile and then impatiently sighed, “Thanks. I’m happy with my choice, but ever since I’ve given notice, obstacle after obstacle has begun to appear.”

I lovingly grinned, as I fully related.

“My brother,” she explained, “who is also my roommate, just had emergency surgery and now needs homecare assistance, so I’m now a nurse by day and a nurse by night. So, other than ordering new camera equipment last week, there’s been no more room for photography in my life.”

“Isn’t it something how we’re tested by the Universe to see if we’re going to lose our focus?” I empathized.

“Yes, and I know I’m going to get where I want to be,” Joanne said, “but it’s taking longer than I thought.”

We chatted about this for awhile.

Joanne knows that true commitment means never looking back.

Whenever our minds get set on a new direction, our freewill changes, so it’s extremely likely that there will be obstacles involved.

It’s like pulling up an anchor and seeing all of the remnants still attached...

We’ll get muck and seaweed and many other crazy entanglements way before we can ever set sail. -- This is why so many people stay right where they are. They’d rather feel helpless than deal with the obstacles.

I reminded Joanne of this as it was time to part ways.

“Just keep your eye on your goal no matter how turned around you might get.”

“Will do,” she said with conviction.

Two days later, I found myself questioning the reason why remnants remain.

It was during daily meditation, and my Higher Power answered me by pointing my eyes to a pile of dried up pine needles that had fallen beneath the trees.

Should the trees focus on their shedding or on their growth?

"On their growth," I mentally replied.

Is shedding part of growth?

"Yes."

This is your answer.

Another lesson learned!

Just as trees cast off their needles in order to grow, change for the better requires persistence and patience during times of separation.

We can either put all of our attention on the loss or keep some of our focus for the gain.

Freewill is harmony, so do what you please. :)

...................................

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Rose to the Occasion

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 19 Apr 2008 22:18:00 +0000

“But friendship is the breathing rose, with sweets in every fold” ~ Oliver Wendell Holmes

Winter has snapped coldly once again. Our freshly mowed lawn is covered in powder and the grey clouds are out with no signs of the sun.

A colleague of mine from the college was commenting about her mountain estate still fully buried in two feet of snow.

“It’s depressing,” she said with a frown.

Then, just as I was about to empathize with her, she fully recovered with a smile, “But, I’m learning to accept it for the good. This snow will help keep forest fires down.”

I began smiling too. What a wonderful new outlook she had!

Her quick wit allowed her to catch her negative comments and quickly turn them around.

Yet, sometimes it’s not that easy, is it?

Sometimes we can be so stuck in Ego that we’re unable to pull ourselves back up without some loving help from a friend.

Greek philosopher, Epictetus believed all human beings have the freedom to control their lives and to live in harmony with nature.

He said, “The key is to keep company only with people who uplift you, whose presence calls forth your best.”

Uplift means to “to raise; elevate” and “to exalt emotionally or spiritually.” (Webster’s)

Looking back on my life, I could have used Epictetus’ advice a little sooner.

In grade school I chose a “best friend” who liked to slug my arm and leave a bruise.

In junior high, I “befriended” two girls who were into drinking, drugs, and shoplifting, and when I didn’t give in to their peer-pressure-some-ways my face and eyes became their personal punching bag.

Things got so bad that by the time high school arrived, I began planning my own suicide.

I had written all of my goodbye notes already and was sitting in study hall wondering if anyone would even miss me once I was gone.

Then, to my genuine surprise, the pink slip arrived.

A redhead, named Tyrelle, smiled my way as she handed the pink pass to my study hall teacher.

When my name was called out, I was completely in shock.

I was a straight A student. What in the world had I done wrong?

I could barely walk down the hall to the guidance counselor’s office.

“How are you today?” Mr. Mommaerts inquired through his wide framed glasses.

Big tears pooled in my eyes like a sudden tidal wave.

“Your friend, Tyrelle, tells me you’ve been showing signs of depression. Would you care to talk about it?”

My mind began to scramble.

Tyrelle? The girl who gave me the note? She considered me a friend?

How could this be? She’s popular and outgoing and nice.

“Tyrelle tells me you’ve been more sad than usual. What’s going on in your life?”

It was at that very moment I remember finally believing I was worthy of love... and, not because I was someone’s daughter or sister or cousin or grandchild, but because someone had noticed me as I am.

After that day, Tyrelle and I became genuine friends. -- She knew how to uplift me no matter what.

Whenever times were tough, Ty and I would always give each other a rose to remind one another of our friendship and our love.

When we broke up with a boyfriend, out came the tissues and a single red rose.

If one of us was feeling distant and down, it was time for pep talk and a long stemmed rose.

Even to this day, I honestly believe Tyrelle was sent here from Heaven to keep me uplifted and authentically whole.

Before that day in the guidance counselor’s office, I never really understood what it meant to have a friend, because until I met Tyrelle I never knew how to be one.

Yet, Tyrelle and I remained great friends for many years to come.

Sadly, I was forced to present my last rose to Ty just a few years ago.

A tragic car accident had taken her young life on a cold wintery night.

I tell you this story, because staying uplifted doesn’t always come easy.

Even as I walked to my mailbox yesterday, I started thinking about how I could possibly change my outlook so the gloomy dark skies no longer feel so grey.

But, as I reached for the bundle of letters, I soon had my answer...

Ty’s 13 year old daughter was writing from the Midwest. -- Reminiscent tears streamed onto the page as I opened picture after picture of the most uplifting beautiful roses that you ever did see!!!

I miss you and love you, too, my friend, Tyrelle!

...........................

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com/ to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Being Humble: How Low Can You Go?

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 02:50:00 +0000

“To be humble to superiors is duty, to equals courtesy, to inferiors nobleness.” ~ Benjamin Franklin

Spring has Sprung, and it was definitely worth the wait! It reached 60 degrees today with even higher temps in store for tomorrow.

Our friend Jim is visiting us from the Midwest again. He's one of the nicest guys you'd ever want to meet... so humble in many ways.

To be humble means to be “modest and not arrogant" (Webster's)

Don't our Egos like the sound of that!!

But, hold the boastful boat!!

To be humble also means to be “lowly” and “to have a feeling of insignificance and inferiority.” (Webster’s)

I don't know about your's, but my Ego is putting up a lot of resistance right now.

Does being humble really mean we're expected to lower ourselves to the point of losing self-dignity and societal respect and position?

Just the mere thought of this is causing my Ego to put up a fight.

But, hold on a second.

What happens if I set my pride aside and become fully aware of my essential Self?

Ahhh. Now I get it.

Status is nothing more than an illusion. We can’t take it with us when we die, so spiritually speaking we all stand on equal ground.

Yet, isn't it true that some people live with false pretenses and do whatever it takes to appear powerful, while others believe the nail that sticks up is only asking to be hammered down, and so they make excuses for their God-given talents so as not to be perceived as prevailing?

Yet, isn’t deception and apologizing more like make-believe than modesty?

And, what about those who term success as the Tall Poppy Syndrome saying overachievement deserves public dishonor and degradation?

Do individuals who stand out from the crowd really deserve to be “cut down to size” just like the tallest poppy in the garden?

Isn’t reducing someone with insult and injury just as bad as conceited bragging and boasting?

In terms of being humble, just where do we draw the line?

Several years ago, when I was out of work, I needed to take a job as an asphalt sealer just to pay the bills. -- The work was demeaning, not to mention extremely difficult. And though my Ego felt really degraded, my spirit knew otherwise.

Being humble has nothing to do with physical form. It simply means lowering one’s spirit to a place of knowingness.

Humble and humiliate are both derived from the Latin word humus which means ground.

When we get hung up in Ego, we resist our true place in this world and often experience painful humiliation, because we’ve illusively 'lost' our pride.

Just remember this...

No one is truly humble when their Ego’s are boasting about wealth and fame, pretending to be someone they're not, cutting others down in hopes of feeling better, or pretending to be less than they are.

To truly be humble is to lower our prideful Egos so that each of our spirits may equally soar.

...........................

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com/ to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Secrets to Self-Acceptance

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 19:11:00 +0000

"Self-acceptance comes from meeting life's challenges vigorously. Don't numb yourself to your trials and difficulties nor build mental walls to exclude pain from your life. You will find peace not by trying to escape your problems but by confronting them." ~ Yogi, Swami Kriyananda

Another week has quickly passed. The weather has remained uncertain - as if Spring is reluctant to come out and play.

Steve and I have had the pleasure of hosting his parents this week.

It’s been really great having them around! They have generously given of themselves in so many ways...from laughter and hugs, to helping out with daily cleaning and evening meals.

Their presence has been exactly the ray of sunshine that Steve and I have needed most. (Thanks so much Mom and Dad B.!)

Having Steve’s parents here has helped me reveal my “lesson of the week,” and for those of you who aren't quite certain what this means, I’ll take a moment to explain...

Over the last couple of years, I’ve been fortunate enough to have lessons of life present themselves to me. -- I intuitively recognize that it’s my mission to openly and humbly share these lessons in my blog.

How does it work?

It’s sort of like receiving clue after clue from the Universe and then tuning in to my Higher Power to find out what it means.

This past week, for example, I continued to receive thematic messages centered around people who were hoping to hide something about themselves from someone else.

One friend, for example, was afraid to admit she has never planned a big event before, yet once she pushed past her fear, many individuals stepped forward to help out.

Another friend was debating whether or not she should use a new Vet for her pet. She was afraid that if she did, she’d have to explain herself.

I politely suggested this may be the Universe’s way of telling her she just may need to be more assertive. -- After all, the world often reflects back to us the things we need to face in order to finally move forward.

Then, just yesterday morning, Steve’s parents and I had a similar conversation.

We were relating with one another about how sometimes we want others to think we’re doing better than we really are, because we’re afraid to admit we could use some extra help or because we become fearful of what others might think.

Yet, isn’t it true that what we fear we always draw near?

I’ve come to realize that unless we come to terms with the truth, we’ll continue to be reminded of its presence in all types of shapes and forms.

And so it goes, these were my clues for the week...

I filed them carefully in my memory bank and then meditated awhile to ask what they're intended to mean.

I was sitting in an open field with Buddy near home. We had gone there to play ball, and after several rounds of fetch, he lay down to chew on a stick.

I closed my eyes and began focusing on my breathing. I became fully aware of the flat cool stone beneath my bottom, the chirping of the birds in the trees, and the light blowing wind gently caressing my face.

I consciously reached in my mind for each awaiting clue.

It seemed fear was a common theme, but why?

What is it that prevents us from speaking the truth?

Why do we sometimes hide from the world and pretend that everything’s okay?

How come we often feel like it’s better to put on a happy face than to admit we are hurting or need help?

I placed my thumbs and middle fingers together then turned my palms to face the sky.

I continued to breathe deeply while envisioning my body grounded to the earth, and then a strong stream of energy flowed freely through me, from my tailbone to my head.

White light permeated around me as my Higher Power’s words resonated calmly within.

Open your eyes.

I did as I was told.

A field of straw-like grass was protruding from the ground with a few green weeds scattered in-between.

Do you think the grass cares what the weed thinks?
Does the weed hide the fact that it’s a weed?
Does either pretend they're doing well even when they're not?

I couldn’t help but giggle.

Immediately, I knew what each clue meant.

Self is “a person’s nature or character."*
To accept means "to take or receive" and "to regard as true or sound." * (*Webster's)

When we are openly receptive to our natural character, we come to see our authentic Self.

In other words, 'how' we thrive is dependent on our admissions of the truth.

Admitting our reasons for the choices that we make or the blemishes that we bear will often come with a lot of resistance.

Why?

Because our Egos don’t like to give up control or admit we have weaknesses and faults.

We fear we won’t be accepted or liked, which is an ultimate test of our being.

This helps explain why we sometimes hide from the truth by saying we shouldn’t have to explain our actions or justify our decisions to any one about any thing at any time.

Yet, just as the grass comes with its weeds, we, too, have foibles and faults.

Personal growth can only flourish when we fully accept our Self -- All flaws and all.

The acceptance of Self has no tolerance for measuring and no room for fears, so take time every day to stand in front of a mirror and loudly and positively declare... (Fill in the 'blank' for your Self.) - “Despite my own fear of (BLANK), I wholly and completely accept my Self.”

Complete self-acceptance means knowingly appreciating, validating, and supporting everything about your Self exactly as it is, in-the-here-and-the-now.

Think of the reception of Self as a gift of personal awareness for self-improvement.

Self-acceptance is admitting to trusted friends that we’re hurting so they can finally help us heal; it’s tactfully disclosing our preferences so we may move forward on our spiritual path; and it’s revealing our weaknesses to confidants so that stronger talents now have the room to emerge.

So, go ahead, accept your Self. You'll feel so much better when you do!

...........................

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com

to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Give your Self a Fresh Start

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 14:31:00 +0000

“If you have made mistakes, there is always another chance for you. You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call 'failure' is not the falling down, but the staying down.” ~ America's Sweetheart, Mary Pickford

This week Winter has Spring spinning with confusion as snow and hail greet the ground.

It’s been pretty fascinating watching fresh blankets of powder cover the lawn again and again and again -- Each time followed by sunshine that melts it all away once more.

These recent weather patterns remind me a lot of the stress cycle which constantly replays in our life again and again and again until something else occurs that can fully bring the situation back to light.

A few days ago I spoke to a group of business professionals about this very topic.

Just how does one remain calm during stressful situations?

The fun group of participants began discussing events in their life that often trigger a negative response.

Take the weather for example...

Let’s say the sun hasn’t shined in awhile...

How does this event make you feel?

Or, shall I say, “How do you make your Self feel?”

That’s right. You’re in control of how you feel with every occurrence in your life.

You can allow it to negatively affect your entire day, yet is that really the outcome that you desire?

Regardless of the situation, always ask your Self, “How does this thought make me feel?”

Not so good?

Then see your response as an opportunity to take a look at your life from a glowing new perspective.

In other words, give your Self a FRESH START!

Fresh means “newly made.” Start means a “beginning.” (Webster’s).

Newly made beginnings are part of our gifts of choice.

That’s right! Every day we get to choose how we wish to respond.

What’s your view of the world?

Are we in a falling recession, or is this finally our chance to get some really good deals?

Is the rising cost of fuel pure tragedy, or rather a wonderful opportunity to “Go Green?”

Do you fear falling sick with the flu, or instead welcome wellness with healing thoughts and positive energy?

Are you eating each bite feeling guilty of your weight, or are you fully aware and appreciative of your food?

Do you fill your brain with confusing controversy (like "entertaining" lie detectors on TV?),or do you remember that your brain doesn’t know the difference between fantasy and reality and so you carefully choose what you watch, how you feel and what you do?

Fresh Starts are always good!

Whether it’s a dark blanket of clouds covering up the sun, another Spring snowfall, or an opportunity to react to that which life presents, choose to be fully aware and awake. Consciously move your Self out of the conditioned negative thought patterns, and move toward a newly made beginning instead.

Begin by simply becoming more aware of your perspective.

Turn your self-talk into words that will nurture rather than words that will hurt.

Begin to look at the world with a fresh pair of eyes, and ask your Self "What can I do to fully control the situation?"

Trust your intuition and try it out.

If it feels right, then it is.

And, remember.... “Enjoy the Experience” (tm) come what may!

.....................

IMPORTANT NOTE: Earth Hour is today, 3/29! Commit to energy conservation by turning off your lights between 8:00pm and 9:00pm in your local time zone.

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Spiritual Transformation and Adaptation

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 02:14:00 +0000

I spent the first full day of Spring inside the National Park where I spotted this graceful and elegant swan.

It is said that the swan is a symbol of transformation. -- How absolutely fitting given my meeting with the fertility specialist last week.

Swans are said to be symbolic of surrendering to the power of the Great Spirit, for accepting one’s ability to know what lies ahead, and to keep paying attention to one’s internal intuition.

Though I couldn’t help but place a little hope on the remaining 1% chance of finally getting pregnant, my meditation last week led me to believe that I was reaching for something that just wasn’t meant to be.

Since then I’ve undergone some major shifts in my being.

Back in 2005, when Steve and I received a message from our angel, Ed, that adoption was an option, deep down we still believed we’d be able to conceive a baby with no problems on our own.

These past few days, however, I’ve come to feel differently now.

At this point in life, Steve and I are clearly being presented the chance to experience something not many individuals ever get to face.

How many people are put in a position where they must seriously consider adopting or fostering in order to have a child in their life?

Even in the board game called LIFE your chances of landing on a “baby boy” space or “baby girl” space are really pretty good.

People just go on their merry little way in their little plastic cars adding their blue pegged boys and pink pegged girls, not really giving much thought as to why they landed on the spaces that they did.

Yet, even after Steve and I chose the “Get Married” path, the spinner still never pointed us toward a child of our own.

Perhaps that’s because every time we landed on an "Adoption" space, we put the pedal to the metal and gave the wheel another go.

Mind you, we have nothing against fostering or adoption. In fact, for the longest time, we thought of them as two wonderful alternatives.

We even put our names on a waiting list back in the Midwest “just to be safe.”

It was then we discovered that out of all of the adoption options available we’d feel most comfortable taking on a child classified by the system as “special needs.”

Contrary to what most people think, a special needs child doesn’t necessarily mean one with physical disabilities.

Though this can be one factor of several considerations, most special needs children are older and beyond the toddler stage.

Perhaps they have brothers and sisters. Perhaps they’ve experienced trauma in some dramatic way and now need more love to help heal the pain...

Regardless of their situation, there's many children in this world just hoping and praying for a family who will offer them love and consistency, yet sadly they're bypassed and often overlooked.

Even after moving to the mountains, Steve and I explored the special needs fostering and adopting path, yet we continued to remain hopeful that we’d get pregnant on our own.

But, God works in mysterious ways.

Over the course of the past seven years our spirits have been shifting....

Yet despite these strong spiritual pulls, our stubborn pride has gotten in the way, preventing us from fully following its light...

You might say our Egos have been sitting in the dark with just a little flashlight unable to admit until now that the batteries are nearly drained.

Since seeing the fertility specialist, I've become awakened to the truth! And, as Steve often says, it’s now time to Improvise, Adapt, and Overcome!

We’ll improvise by giving up on the idea of conception. In order to do this, we must adapt.

Adapt means “to adjust or modify fittingly; to make suitable to conditions.” (Webster’s)

Now that I’ve learned my physical body is simply not wired to have a child, it will be important to adapt emotionally, intellectually and spiritually so that all pieces of my Self become fully aligned and complete.

Like all stages of personal adaptation, this will involve shifting my thoughts, my perceptions and my personal beliefs about the world and about my Self.

First off, not being able to conceive a child doesn’t mean I’m less of a woman or undeserving in any way. It simply means I’m being called to fulfill a duty that not many women are ever asked to fulfill.

(Yes, I'm talking to myself.)

Secondly, it means being stronger than ever... Having so much courage that I'm able to give more love than most people are ever asked to give.

This will be the ultimate act of altruism!...

Setting aside all selfishness and all fears to answer to nature's calling and to follow the Divine so completely that we finally fully adapt and miraculously overcome!

.............

ETE – Please visit http://www.soulfelt.com to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that will speak directly to your subconscious mind.

The Truth Hurts (?)

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 20:44:00 +0000

The mountain sat upon the plain, In his Eternal chair, His observation omnifold, His inquest everywhere.

The seasons prayed around his knees, Like children round a sire: Grandfather of the days is he, Of dawn the ancestor. ~ Emily Dickinson

......................

I took my place at my favorite park’s picnic table on Friday afternoon when Mother Nature presented a mirror in which I finally looked.

What began as slush-like snow turned into lightly falling rain.

Off to my right, the clouds began to separate just enough for the sun to fully emerge while the rain continued to fall.

I then turned to my left, expecting to see much the same, amazed to find the blue sky pushing away the rain while half of the moon brightly appeared in opposite direction of the sun.

It was as if I were in two different worlds....

Blue sky and the moon on my left. -- Falling rain with the sun on my right.

Neither made much sense at all, yet both were beautiful just the same.

(More on that in a moment....)

Allow me to tell you that Steve and I have had a rollercoaster week:

First, my friend Nicole and her husband announced the birth of their baby boy! (Welcome Aiden Thomas!)

That very same day, a fertility specialist in the area candidly shared with me that, according to statistics, my odds of getting pregnant are now less than 1%. (Ouch.)

One day later we received devastating news that a friend of ours had died. He was only 40 and married just four years. (Connie, we’re so very sorry!);

That same afternoon, we received a phone call from our friend Lindsey who happily announced her engagement to Kris. (Congratulations!)

Talk about ups and downs.

Life and death.

Loss and Love.

It’s been 7 years in trying to get pregnant.

When the doctor announced that odds were against us, he paused for a moment, apologizing then for being so open and forthright.

“The truth sometimes hurts,” he said, “but at least you now know what you’re up against.”

His words have remained with me all this week.

Does the truth really hurt, and if so, why?

Truth is defined as “the true state of a matter.” (Webster’s)

True means “real; genuine; authentic.” (Webster’s)

From a spiritual perspective, “true” represents the Divine, and since our Higher Power has only love to offer, “the truth hurts” phrase is without a doubt an oxymoron.

That being said, why, then, did my new doctor’s words cause me so much pain?

(Back to the park....)

As I sat upon that picnic table, watching the dazzling seasonal dances in the sky, I began to shed some tears.

Just like the weather, I was feeling both saddened and relieved.

Thankfully, the voice of my Higher Power emerged...

Look at the moon;
See the tops of the pines;
Examine the blades of the grass.

I gazed at each a moment.

Tell me what you see.

Answering in my mind...

I see a moon that is stretching upward in hopes of meeting the sun; I see trees that are reaching outward in hopes of receiving more rain; And I see blades of grass that are restless and not yet extended to where they’re really wanting to be.

The truth resonated through me once again...

See the moon again with new found eyes.
Follow the trunk of the tree.
Look closely at the blades of the grass and tell me what you see.

Blinking away my tears, I did exactly as I was instructed.

Miraculously, the moon appeared to be swimming in the sky just like a felicitous cookie dunked in milk.

I inhaled deeply, not yet certain of my lesson.

Then, I carefully scanned the trees...

Each trunk led my vision to its deeply planted roots, letting me know with certainty that satisifaction was clearly present exactly where they stood.

I was in awe.

My eyes then shifted downward to the dormant grass beneath my dangling feet...

Each dewy blade was resting peacefully showing no signs of disappointment nor despair.

Instinctively and immediately I knew that my original perceptions of the moon and the treetops and the blades of grass reaching outward were simply mirror messages of my relentless and painful struggle over the last seven long infertile years.

Confirmation followed...

It’s time to stop reaching.
This is your truth.
See it for what it is, and you’ll no longer feel any pain.

Tears continued falling and continue to even as I write.

I can now see how similar my emotions have been to the ever-changing weather...

I'm still in transition, trying my best to come to terms with the fact that pregnancy for Steve and I is simply not part of God's plan.

I share with you this lesson, because the truth hurts.... but only because I’ve resisted it.

And, though my Ego can’t help but feel like a chicken who will never lay an egg, I've come to now know that I must stop reaching for what clearly will never be, and to instead focus solely on adoption which has been patiently waiting for me to finally see the truth.

...................

ETE – If you haven’t done so already, please visit http://www.soulfelt.com to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable which includes a complimentary copy of our Soul-Felt Intentions newsletter.

Awaken to your Self

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sat, 08 Mar 2008 22:39:00 +0000

It’s nearly 50 degrees today with promises of even higher temps tomorrow.

A couple of days ago I walked down to the river to breathe in the pleasant sights and sounds of the remaining melting snow.

Flocks of geese were migrating overhead as sweet singing robins joyously appeared along with magnificent rays of the sun.

How beautiful it is to be aware and to be still!

Once I arrived back home, I flipped on the local weather. It was then that the forecaster remarked, “Daylight savings time will unfortunately mean losing an hour this season.”

I flicked off the channel and reprogrammed his words.

Moving our clocks ahead will not mean a loss. It will mean a gain...

A gain of more sunshine means more light, and with more light, comes a longer lasting awakening.

I know. I know. Some of you are thinking, “But we will “lose” a whole hour of sleep.”

Literally, yes we will, but rather than looking at this through the hands of time, consider looking at this from a spiritual perspective...

Awaken means “to come or bring to awareness.” (Webster’s)

The more we are awake, the more we come to know.

There are some of you reading this blog who aren’t yet spiritually awakened. -- You're reading this message and wondering “Just what in the world is she talking about?”

This simply means you’re not yet ready, and that's okay. -- When you are ready, your imaginary fears will begin to disappear, and you’ll start to challenge your old conditioned thinking. -- When this happens, you’ll finally awaken to your true Self. You'll have a deeper recognition of your inner-voice, and, just like a bear coming out of hibernation, you’ll begin to crave the sweetness of understanding and want to know more.

For most of you reading this, you’re already full of awareness and recognition, but you may not be able to make it last. You awaken and then sleep, awaken and then sleep. This simply means your true Self is still at the stage of taking naps. :)

That’s okay too. -- Be patient with your Self.

When you are ready, you’ll fully transition and emerge.

For those of you fully enlightened and aware, you have learned how to stop your Ego self from slipping back into your old conditioned ways. With few exceptions, you have come to recognize truth from illusion. Congratulations for joining the collective conscious!

No matter what phase you’re in, I'm sure many of you have heard about Oprah Winfrey’s new 10 part on-line series with author, Eckhart Tolle, who described an awakening as an ultimate shift in consciousness

http://event.oprah.com/videochannel/archive/archive_player.html?lesson1

In Eckhart’s words we are not our thought processes or the voices in our head. -- We are not our conditioning. We are not the future and we are not the past. When we make peace with the moment... when we accept, rather than resist ... We are ready to be awakened, and the access point is NOW.

I couldn’t agree more.

Spiritual awakening begins from within.

Start your day by not just rousing yourself from sleep. Fully awaken in the present moment by tapping into all of your senses.

When you reach for your coffee cup in the morning, feel the ceramic handle against your gripping fingers; listen to the bubbling steamy water percolate through the filter as it hits the robust roasted beans; watch the rich dark liquid flow from the narrow spout and into your cup; allow its rich aroma to greet your awaiting lips as it swirls upon your tongue.

"A single event can awaken within us a stranger totally unknown to us. To live is to be slowly born." ~ Author of The Little Prince

...........................................

ETE – Visit http://www.soulfelt.com to sign up for your fun, free E-Parable that speaks directly to your subconscious mind.

Cadences of Life

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 02 Mar 2008 01:49:00 +0000

“How soft the music of those village bells,

Falling at intervals upon the ear,

In cadence sweet!”

~ Poet, William Cowper

After attending a symphony event with Steve last weekend I’ve been giving more and more thought to the cadences of life.

Cadence is defined as “the flow or rhythm of events, especially the pattern in which something is experienced.” (Webster’s)

As Steve and I took our seats up in the balcony, I glanced at the Arabian Nights' program guide just before the lights went dim.

The theme of the concert focused on a Persian Queen named Scheherazade whose life was spared because of her gifted ability to story tell.

As the conductor took his place on stage, Scheherazade’s fascinating stories came to life...

A stern brass section represented the sultan King who would come to decide if Scheherazade’s life would come to conclusion or continue for awhile.

Also in cadence, was Scheherazade’s sweet voice floating freely through the weaving tales of the woodwinds, telling sinuous stories about Sinbad and the sea.

Each ebb and flow of the story rocked the audience in a cradle of ocean waves, keeping the fictional sultan and his followers at the very edges of their seat.

And so the story goes, Scheherazade was saved from execution because of her clever ability to create a suspending segue to each and every 1,001 Arabian stories and tales.

Yes, cadence has many chords.

Just like the song of life, our own melodic experiences can be very strong or very weak.

A weak cadence has no root in its position. This happens when we whimsically float through life without any rhyme or reason. -- It’s when we get so busy with daily routine we hypnotically move through the world unaware and unawake.

An authentic cadence is one in which to reach. -- It means taking the time to be fully aware of our goals by recognizing where we are now in the moment and where we are hoping to be.

Is your personal cadence magically authentic or imperfectly weak?

Life is an ever changing sheet of music -- some notes are eruptive... some tranquil and sweet.

Are you fully aware of your sequential sound?

Do you hold each moment in such fascination and anticipation that every turn of life becomes appreciatively tuneful?

Spend some time now consciously becoming mindful of your own unique melodious sounds of nature.

Ask yourself: Where am I going? Where have I been?

Life is a musical masterpiece.

How does your cadence sound?

...................

ETE - Go to http://www.soulfelt.com/ for your fun, free E-Parable.

Perception is Everything

noreply@blogger.com (ETE) — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 01:35:00 +0000

“All our knowledge has its origin in perceptions” – Leonardo da Vinci

What a phenomenal lunar eclipse we experienced this week! The full moon lit up the sky, completely disappeared and then fully re-appeared. It was amazing to watch!

My sister sent me an email a couple of days later explaining that a lunar eclipse is a full moon “super-charged.” When the moon’s reflection gets blocked, we’re left in the dark. When we no longer see the light, our viewpoints get twisted.

Perhaps this is why people say “perception is everything.”

Perception is defined as “cognition, understanding and immediate or intuitive recognition or appreciation.” (Webster’s)

To perceive is “to become aware of; to know.” (Webster’s)

How often do we have twisted views of our Self?

When we aren’t operating in the light, we experience false perceptions, full of shadows and doubts.

This came into realization last night when I went night skiing with a couple of girlfriends...

“I’m not really good yet,” I explained to my friends. “This is only my second season skiing in the mountains.”

“Neither are we,” they laughed. “But, we’ll have a lot of fun.”

The sun sat low in the bright blue sky as we headed up the lift. Shadows from the trees moved in unison as the high speed chairs swept us up the mountain and onto the ridge.

We took off down a run, and I quickly learned just how inexperienced I was compared to them.

After just one intermediate run, I was already huffing and puffing, and they were barely winded.

“Let’s do this one while we still have some sun,” said one friend pointing toward a more advanced run.

“Sounds good,” the other said. Then she flew down the mountain in perfect formation.

My other friend followed, as my legs began to shake.

“The shadows have set in,” she called out from ahead. “Be careful. It’s pretty icy.”

I could see her light blue jacket whizzing down the slope.

The run was a slalom, so it was much narrower than most of the runs I have done, and though I had gone skiing the whole day before, I hadn't yet worked my way up to this level yet.

My heart began to race.

This was my first time out with these girls, so my Ego wanted to look good, yet how was I going to do this without making a complete fool of myself?

“I can do this,” I told myself. “I WILL get down safely.”

I slowly began to traverse the mountainside, but the snow was really crusted. I could barely keep an edge.

Moments later, down I went.

Picture this... One pole was lying vertically above my head, the other far off to my right. Both of my skis had miraculously popped off near my feet. -- From an eagle’s point of view I would have looked like a big “arms and legs flailed” splat in the snow.

Though I was embarrassed and nervous, I mustered up enough strength to pull myself up the mountain to retrieve my first pole.

I slowly turned my body to get my other pole and skis.

I could barely make out my friends. I could tell they were standing at the base of the mountain patiently waiting for me.

This only made me more nervous. -- I had wished they weren’t watching. I felt so silly really.

Deep down I knew I shouldn’t be embarrassed. I have only had two ski lessons, and compared to their 15+ years of skiing, I was still so new at this.

Vertigo began to set in...

I started to feel a little dizzy, so I stopped looking at the drop off and focused only on my footing.

I knew there’d be no way I’d be able to pop my skis back on at this angle. because I was just too inexperienced for the steepness of the slope.

I carefully lifted my skis and my poles off the ground and started my trek down the snowy cliff.

As you might imagine, I felt like a mountain goat without any hooves. -- Each step I took was cautious and deliberate.

I carefully dug the heels of each boot into the heavy packed snow with each and every step, positioning my skis and poles off to the side so as not to slip and fall.

Finally, when I was close enough, I called out to my friends.

“Please go on without me,” I yelled.

“Never,” they shouted. “We’re in this with you.”

“Please,” I nearly begged. “This is embarrassing.”

“Okay,” they gave in, “We’ll do another run and meet you at the bottom.”

From the looks of it, I still had at least 500 yards to move.

My entire body was full of sweat, and my muscles were really weak.

As soon as I felt it was safe, I inched over to the side of the slope and fully collapsed in the snow.

I was just so very tired. -- I needed to rest for awhile.

Several yards ahead of me, an older gentleman lost his footing and took a digger too.

"Rome wasn't build in a day," his friend yelled as she raced down the slope.

Determined, he spent several minutes struggling to try and punch back on his skis.

Finally, he gave up from exhaustion, grabbed his skis and poles and started sliding down on his rump.

“Looks like we’re in the same boat,” he yelled as he slid on passed me.

I began to laugh.

We were definitely a sight to see, yet how wonderful it was to not be in this alone.

Having watched this man try to lift himself up with such determination helped me work up enough courage to want to try again too, so after a few more deep breaths I made another attempt to punch on my skis.

Would you believe after just a little effort, I WAS able to do it!

Whoo-Hoo!

Though I was pretty nervous about the whole thing and my muscles felt like jelly, I was able to finally ski back down safely to the base of the mountain.

And, yes, by the time I reached the ground, my friends had already gotten back from their second run.

(Hysterical, I know... You can stop chuckling now please.)

“Please go on without me,” I pleaded to my friends. “My entire body feels like an over-stretched rubber-band.”

“Are you sure?” they questioned.

“I insist,” I said.

Off they went like two foxy bunnies in the snow. -- If only I were half as good as them.

After 30 minutes of rest, I chose an easy green run to regain my confidence.

Half way through the course, my muscles began to really burn. It was becoming very apparent that skiing two days in a row was taking its toll on me.

Stop here.

It was my Higher Power directing me to rest awhile more.

I pushed down the tips of my poles into the binds of my skis to release my boots. Then, I sat back into a drift and planted my Self firmly in the snow.

The coolness of mother's nature's ice-pack felt really good on my legs.

I closed my eyes and began to go within.

Suddenly a rush of messages began to flow to me...

Perceive your Self as someone who can face her fears.

Perceive your Self as someone who can face humiliation.

Perceive your Self as someone who will no longer remain paralyzed in fear.

Perceive your Self as someone who is finally living in the Light.

I began to smile and then opened my eyes.

There out in the distance was the most spectacular view of the setting sun. -- Its loving warm orange and yellow rays of energy filled my entire essence with patience and love, giving me a whole new wonderful perception of ME! :)

...........................

ETE