Velvet Over Steel

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2012-01-27T17:54:00.005-06:00

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“The happiness of a man in this life does not consist in the absence but in the mastery of his passions.^{” ~}Alfred Lord Tennyson

Half Full Friday is a series of weekly posts that Eye Girl originally started in June 2009. Now the it is hosted by Sprinkles at Wyldechylde. We believe that a lot of our happiness is determined by our attitude about the things that happen to us. So by participating, we are deciding to see the glass as half full, instead of half empty. We are choosing to concentrate on the positives, instead of dwelling on the negatives. Our Half Full Friday posts are a way to do just that. They are a list of the things in our life that have brought us happiness over the past week. We are determined to find the something good in every day. Are you?

“Being passionate about something is the key to success. But using that passion to help others is the key to happiness.” ~Unknown

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day. This week I'm especially Happy and Thankful for:

Another a FAST & Productive week!

Learning and Growing in my job!

New and exciting experiences!

a Positive work environment!

great training and trainers!

interesting conversations.... ;-)

having Passion for what I do!

"Great passions, can elevate the soul to great happiness." ~Me

It's also "ALOHA FRIDAY" Everyone!! If you want to join in the fun? Post your own question on your blog and leave your link at the Aloha Friday post at An Island Life. Then you can visit the other participants if you wish...It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends or see what people are thinking about this week and join in a conversation or two if you like.

"Your work is going to fill a large part of your life, and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do. If you haven't found it yet, keep looking. Don't settle." ~Steve Jobs

My question: Do you have a passion for what you do?

My answer: I have passion for my new job; my writing; the 2 books I'm working on; and for the future I can see in my dreams!

“When you are passionate, you always have your destination in sight and you are not distracted by obstacles. Because you love what you are pursuing, things like rejection and setbacks will not hinder you in your pursuit. You believe that nothing can stop you!” ~Mike Krzyzewski

Have a wonderful weekend!!
Blessings and Hugs,

~ Coreen XO

Sometimes you just know...

2012-01-25T05:00:00.027-06:00

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"Trust yourself. You know more than you think you do." ~Benjamin Spock

misteryoso.com

Sometimes you just know...

... someone is watching you.

Sometimes you just know...

... someone isn't being honest.

Sometimes you just know...
... when you deserve the truth.

Sometimes you just know...

... when to shine a light on it.

Sometimes you just know...
... when to disconnection.

Sometimes you just know...

... enlightenment is the key.

Sometimes you just know...
... that God has protected you again.

Sometimes you just know...
... you're life is on the right path.

Sometimes you just know....
... that you've taking your power back!

So Listen to and Trust yourself!!! :-)

Living the Truth

2012-01-23T06:00:00.001-06:00

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"Living the Truth in your Heart without compromise brings kindness to the world and true happiness to yourself and those you love. Attempts at kindness that compromise your heart cause only sadness." ~author unknown

pastorerickson.com

Truth

To the extent that you entertain lies and deceit, you are held prisoner in a world cut off from reality. The truth you hide from yourself, prevents you from growth and fulfillment. The truth you hide from others, keeps you distantly apart.

The truth shines a bright light on life, so you can clearly see the way to go. Success, achievement, happiness, joy, fellowship, and fulfillment, thrive in the warm and nurturing light of the truth.

Honesty is the most direct path to wherever you want to go. Truth and honesty are often difficult, yet never more difficult, in the end, than deceit. To think otherwise, is to deceive even yourself. Hiding in the shadows of falsehood, makes it impossible to move forward.

That the truth is moral and ethical, is no secret. Yet truth is also practical, efficient, and effective in every worthy pursuit, something well known by those who enjoy lasting success.

Live in the bright, empowering light. Embrace the truth. It always serves you best.

— Ralph Marston (www.greatday.com)

“Unless your Heart, your soul, and your whole being are behind every decision you make, the words from your mouth will be empty, and each action will be meaningless. Truth and Honesty with yourself are the roots of happiness.” ~Author Unknown

Living a Lie
Betrayal has many forms

Betrayal can have many forms.

2012-01-22T19:12:00.000-06:00

zawaj.com

What is betrayal?  It's the breaking or violation of a presumptive trust, or confidence that produces moral and psychological conflict within a relationship amongst individuals.

In relationships many people, men especially, think that if you don't 'cross that line' and sleep with someone other than the one you share your bed with at night, that you are being a faithful and even loyal partner. That's not always true though.

When you get into bed with someone you don't love, you are not only betraying yourself, but you're cruelly betraying that other person.  Even if there is no one else in your heart or on your mind. It's still betrayal; even if you live with or are even married to that person. It's a cruel, sick and twisted game to play with anyone.

In the case where there is someone else on your heart, thoughts or in your dream, I feel that you are also betraying that person as well. Even if they don't know how you feel for sure and you never 'crossed that line' with them. If they do know, and believe me... they usually know, you are hurting them deeply as well. Again, a cruel, sick and twisted game played not only with the 'truth' but with someone else's heart and life.

Every woman I know, and most men, would rather be hurt with the Truth, than to be either lied to, given half truths or excuses for their behavior. It makes people feel rejected and used; even if you're married. No one, male or female, wants to feel either of those.   It's heart breaking and humiliating!'

Each and every day that you live a lie with someone, you are betraying them. Hurting and humiliating them beyond comprehension. No one deserves that. Whether you admit to 'falling out of love' or lie and say you loved them in the first place... at least on a subconscious level, the other person knows. They know when you are not emotionally connected to them. They can feel it, see it in your eyes or tell it by your actions.

This is when many times the unconsciously rejected partner becomes insecure, suspicious and assumes many things. On a certain level, they are right... even if their partner or spouse never crossed that 'physical line' with someone else. A person's intuition usually knows when they have, even if it's just in their mind.

I've observed far to many friends hurt by this cruel, sick and twisted game. Whether it's girlfriends or guy friends... the hurt, humiliation and damage is usually the same. So for those who 'play this game'... look in the mirror; go into your heart and be honest with yourself. Then finally be honest with the person who deserves the truth! Act like a man, or woman, and stop playing games with other peoples' lives and hearts!!

Living the Truth
Living a Lie
When and How to Leave Unhealthy Relationships

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2012-01-20T05:00:00.004-06:00

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"A vision of a desired future allows you to engage and identify immediately in your focus with an improved condition. It changes what you perceive and how you perform - NOW. It’s not about achieving something in time. It’s rather about the quality of choices you are making in this moment – what you choose to perceive, feel, and do. It’s about getting the most out of your experience."~David Allen

“The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitudes of mind.” ~William James

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For a great 1st full week at my new job!

For embracing changes with enthusiasm!

For getting my homework done! :-)

For positive attitudes and smiles from co-workers!

For another new experience today!

For helping with an event on Friday!

For exhaustion... it means I worked hard!

For my son's additional help around our home!

For getting off early on Fridays because I have plans!!!

“Optimism is an intellectual choice.” ~Diana Schneider

"Courage is the display of a decision to let go of the familiar as you explore the unknown." ~David L. Hanson

My question: Are you living you're dreams, or staying in a familiar comfort zone?

My answer: I believe I am; although I admit that many times I stall out or stop moving forward. Those are the times when I stay far too long in a 'comfort zone' keeping familiar jobs and safe surroundings; until something happens in my life that I don't expect... pushing and moving me forward to my dreams.

“To the degree we’re not living our dreams, our comfort zone has more control of us than we have over ourselves.” ~Peter McWilliams

Have a wonderful, safe and warm weekend!!
Many Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Random Tuesday Thoughts... Just so you know ;-)

2012-01-17T05:00:00.180-06:00

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"Random thoughts are received with no context for it, no pre-conceived notions or bias." ~unknown

http://diyphotography.net

Just so you know... I love my new job
... I should have taken the leap sooner.

Just so you know... I was nervous at first
... a big change is usually a little scary.

Just so you know... I like what I do

... even though I have much to learn.

Just so you know... 'Change'
... is so necessary for 'Growth'.

Just so you know... I can achieve
... anything I set my mind to.

Just so you know... I reached out
... with no response or answer.

Just so you know... reaching out
... felt like the right thing to do.

“You can’t always stay in your corner waiting for others to come to you. Sometimes you have to reach out to them first.” ~unknown

Just so you know... there are times
... when all you can do is pray though.

Just so you know... I believe my blog
... gives some people strength and hope.

Just so you know... I often write
... about subjects that just come to me.

Just so you know... my Intuition & Heart

... are what I listen to and follow most.

Just so you know... keep reading my blog
... I just may be writing to MORE of you. ;-)

HAPPY TUESDAY!!! :-)

Do you need something?

2012-01-14T19:18:00.004-06:00

"When you need something, all the universe conspires in helping you... just ask." ~Unknown

pixdaus.com

To the person who visits my blog a lot: Can you please let me know if you need anything?

I feel you are looking for strength and hope when you read my post. However, you've visited so often and for such a long time without reaching out; that I believe you're in a bad place or situation. Please know that I won't judge and that you can trust me if you contact me.

I would really appreciate hearing from you in some way. Maybe I can help you find some direction or just be a friend who listens. I'm praying for you, who ever you are.

"Tell your heart that the fear of suffering is worse than the suffering itself. And no heart has ever suffered when it goes in search of its dreams." ~Paulo Coulho

Half Full Friday.... after a Very Busy Week!

2012-01-12T21:54:00.001-06:00

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"The state of your life is nothing more than a reflection of your state of mind." ~Wayne Dryer

"When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." ~Victor Frankl

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For my new job!

For awesome co-workers!

For great training!

For positive changes!

For new experiences!

For learning new skills!

For feeling productive!

For those who helped calm my nerves this week!

For getting off early on Fridays because I'm exhausted!

"If nothing ever changed, there'd be no butterflies." ~Author Unknown

"If you don't like something change it; if you can't change it -- change the way you think about it." ~Mary Engelbreit

My question: Do you believe negative people can change?

My answer: I absolutely do! If one takes responsibility for the own thoughts, actions, including bad behavior; and then above all.. WANT to Change! Sadly... few negative people do any of those things and never change.

"People can change until they take their last breath." ~Alton R. Jorgenson

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!!
Many Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Letting go of our Safety Nets

2012-01-08T05:00:00.343-06:00

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“Not Listening = Safety Net = Staying Stuck

Listening = Owning Up to Your Own Stuff

= Letting Go = Happiness”

dreamstime

"When you're young, your whole life is about the pursuit of fun. Then, you grow up and learn to be cautious. You could break a bone or a heart. You look before you leap and sometimes you don't leap at all because there's not always someone there to catch you. And in life, there's no 'safety net'. When did life stop being fun and start being scary?" ~unknown

I spent a great deal of my life, playing it safe. Living each day being cautious, planing ahead my every step if I could. I thought that if I didn't I'd end up on a tight rope 200 feet above the dark hole of the unknown, with no one and nothing the catch me if I fell. It's a scary place to be when you're all you have to take care of yourself and your children.

I now see why I stayed in situations, relationships and jobs, FAR longer than I should have. When I was married, at least I knew I could be there for my children and provide for them financially. The same was true with some jobs over the years.

Even though I didn't always feel safe or wasn't personally happy at periods in my life, I at least knew what to expect most days. I was afraid to change those situations, because I had no idea what to expect in regards to actions and reactions by others... if I were to leave or move on.

So I stayed in my 'safety net' of familiar surrounds that even if unpleasant, were at least 'predictable'. When I've been in both toxic relationships or stressful jobs, walking on egg shells became a part of my daily routine, in order to keep the peace or minimize the drama around me. A survival skill learned and lived for too many of us.

There comes a time in most of our lives where something is no longer working or being us happiness. Yet so many of us stay where we do, in 'safety nets', because it's a routine we are used to. Hanging onto 'safety nets' keeps us stuck in those situations and keep us from making needed changes.

Listening to our hearts and being honest with ourselves, allows us to let go of the things in our lives that are no longer working or best for us. Listening allows us to see things the way they truly are, which allows us to own up to our own 'stuff', which includes the roles we play in the situations we're in. Admitting truths to ourselves and accepting responsibility for our own actions and non-actions, will move us forward... in a positive, healthy direction and a fulfilled, happy life!

As the old saying goes "Change is only as painful as the resistance", which means it's all about the 'fear' around the 'change' more than the change itself. So instead of pre-thinking all the changes, it's best to live in the moment. Going through each day seeing what it's like, flowing with it and having faith. Staying in the moment is not usually fearful. It's only the fear that makes it difficult.

Now a days I'm much more spontaneous, even 'going with the flow' in my daily life viewing each day as an adventure. I actually enjoy the changes, seeing the life lessons and focusing on positive outcomes. When we let go of our 'safety nets' and allow a change to happen, there’s always a lesson for our souls growth. Trust in that!

“A little shake up on Earth is not going to disturb you. Stay in who you are. The mind, the thinking mind is often confused. When you don’t understand or can’t figure it out, let go. By letting go you will create the only safety net you'll ever need... the one inside of you. The thinking mind creates scenarios (good/bad, right/wrong, high/low). So be true to your heart because the only real safety net is in your heart.” ~unknown

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2012-01-06T05:00:00.004-06:00

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“You can close the windows and darken your room, or you can open the windows and let light in. It is a matter of choice. Your mind is your room. Do you darken it or do you fill it with light?” ~SuccessConsciousness.com

"Positive thinking is expecting, talking and visualizing with certainty what you want to achieve, as an accomplished fact." ~Unknown

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For a good transition week!

For seeing old & new friends!

For my new job starting soon!

For my old job lasting until then!

For attending an Iowa Caucus! It's exciting to participate!

For X-rays that show a great recovery!

For beautiful weather again this week!

For keeping positive energy around me!

For the new adventures ahead of me!!

"Positive thoughts are not enough. There have to be positive feelings and positive actions." ~Unknown

“Instead of thinking about what you're missing, try thinking about what you have that everyone else is missing.” ~Unknown

My question: Can you 'feel' both positive and negative energy with some of the people you encounter each day!

"For myself I am an optimist - it doesn't seem to be much use being anything else." ~Winston Churchill

My answer: I absolutely can, and quite often. I try to stay away from the negative energy when I feel it or if I can't, I try to change that energy by saying or doing something positive; because it can bring us down and effect our own moods much of the time.

“Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you'll start having positive results." ~Willie Nelson

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!!
Many Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Random Tuesday Thoughts... Just so you know ;-)

2012-01-03T06:00:00.011-06:00

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"Random thoughts are received with no context for it, no pre-conceived notions or bias." ~unknown

http://diyphotography.net

Just so you know... I know more than I say
... but somethings should be left unsaid.

Just so you know... I set my boundaries
... I'm disconnecting from others' dramas.

Just so you know... I refuse to be a pawn

... or a scape goat in others' dramas or issues.

Just so you know... when I insist on answers
... I'm taking back my power and control.

Just so you know... I learned the truth

... enough to make me stronger and wiser.

Just so you know... with prayer and friends
... I get through revelations with grace.

Just so you know... I am not a victim
... I've just been through a great deal of trials.

Just so you know... I stand up for myself
... while learning the lessons I need to.

Just so you know... finding my voice again

... has lead to more personal empowerment.

Just so you know... keep reading my blog
... I just may be writing to some of you. ;-)

HAPPY TUESDAY!!! :-)

Happy New Year, Everyone!!

2012-01-01T18:47:00.000-06:00

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"In the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, but never in want." ~Irish Toast

www.123newyear.com

"A new beginning is perhaps the best time to say... It's so nice to know you...And here's wishing our friendship continues to grow in the days to come." ~Author Unknown

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2011-12-30T06:00:00.004-06:00

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“New day, fresh start! That's the best thing about being blessed to wake up! Claiming a day of joy, love and happiness! Dreams on my mind.” ~Unknown

“Fill your mind with light, happiness, hope, feelings of security and strength, and soon your life will reflect these qualities." ~Unknown

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For Wonderful Christmas in Chicago!

For our holiday adventures while there!

For my friend who took care of our pets!

For good weather and a safe trip!

For plans to go back this spring!

For plans to visit Houston next year!

For everything falling into place!

For a new job & fresh start soon!

For Fun New Years Eve plans!

"Positive thinking evokes more energy, more initiative and more happiness." ~Unknown

“When there are difficulties and you feel down, this is the time to visualize, think and expect the positive. ” ~Unknown

My question: What do you do when you feel down or even negative?

"Repeating inspiring quotes during the day, helps to better cope with every situation that arises." ~Unknown

My answer: It's not that often, but when I do, I re-read my favorite quotes and poems. Visualizing all the plans I have for my life and those that I love. I immediately feel better, happy, back to smiling, and the positive side of life again!

“Affirm the positive, visualize the positive and expect the positive, and your life will change accordingly." ~Unknown

Have a Safe and Happy New Years Eve!!
Warm Hugs and Many New Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Coming Home!

2011-12-28T08:41:00.008-06:00

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"There's nothing half so pleasant as coming home again." ~Margaret Elizabeth

"Love begins by taking care of the closest ones - the ones at home."~Mother Teresa (Notice the Deer)

"The ache for home lives in all of us, the safe place where we can go as we are and not be questioned."~Maya Angelou

View from my son's home in Chicago.

"Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do... but how much love we put in that action."~Mother Teresa

Merry Christmas from Chicago!

2011-12-25T14:11:00.008-06:00

"The perfect Christmas tree? All Christmas trees are perfect!" ~Charles N. Barnard

Christmas Eve in Chicago

Wishing Everyone a Wonderful Christmas Day! I will be back home, blogging, visiting and sharing our adventures very soon!

Hugs and Many Blessings!
Coreen XOXO

Half Full Friday!!

2011-12-23T05:00:00.003-06:00

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“Christmas is not in tinsel and lights and outward show. The secret lies in an inner glow. It's lighting a fire inside the heart. Good will and joy a vital part. It's higher thought and a greater plan. It's glorious dream in the soul of man.” ~Wilfred A. Peterson, The Art of Living

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love." ~Hamilton Wright Mabie

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For Christmas Break at the college!

For time off & a trip to Chicago!

For my house and pet sitter 'friend'!

For time with 2 of my boys!

For a friend's auto shop! They take good care of me.

For seeing my niece and nephew in their Christmas program last Sunday!

For getting so much done this week.

For truth and honesty!

For Christmas and New Years plans!

"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful." ~Norman Vincent Peale

“Gifts of time and love are surely the basic ingredients of a truly merry Christmas.” ~Peg Bracken

My question: What has been or would be the best Christmas gift?

My answer: It's truly a gift whenever I'm with the people I love!

“Christmas, my child, is Love in action. Every time we love, every time we give, it's Christmas." ~Dale Evans Rogers

Have a Very Merry Christmas!!
Hugs and Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Christmas Gifts

2011-12-20T20:21:00.003-06:00

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"The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other." ~Burton Hillis

evercoctail.com

The Christmas Gift Poem

It isn't the flowing ribbons,

draped and curled with extra care,

or the fine and fancy bows

tied with ornamental flair.

It isn't the label on the box,

the sum of money spent,

or anything that shows the length

to which you obviously went.

The beauty of a Christmas gift

cannot be seen at all.

For the loveliness of giving

is a feeling, grand and tall.

It's the genuine offer of love,

the yearning to make a connection,

a show of honest gratitude,

a display of sincere affection.

www.share-christmas.com

So Proud & Happy!!

2011-12-18T06:00:00.001-06:00

"All our dreams can come true... if we have the courage to pursue them." ~Walt Disney

Brandon's College Graduation!

Congrats to my youngest son; Chef Brandon!!

"I hope your dreams take you... to the corners of your smiles, to the highest of your hopes, to the windows of your opportunities, and to the most special places your heart has ever known." ~Author Unknown

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2011-12-16T05:00:00.012-06:00

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“When I was 5 years old, my mother always told me that happiness was the key to life. When I went to school, they asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I wrote down ‘happy’. They told me I didn’t understand the assignment, and I told them they didn’t understand life.” ~John Lennon

“Truth and Integrity bring the purest form of Happiness" ~Me

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For getting the job I wanted!

because the timing worked out perfectly!

For my son's college graduation Saturday!

For no more 'labels' on my son!

For finding my voice and asking questions!

For not being a victim ever again!

For being honest, even if others aren't.

For finding the answers I needed!

For lettings thing go... with ease and grace.

"Happiness is a choice that requires effort sometimes." ~Aeschylus

“Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom.” ~Thomas Jefferson

My question: For you, what is the most important character trait(s)?

My answer: I think it's Honesty & Integrity, because these are essential before someone can have compassion and forgiveness toward others; do their best work; and love unconditionally.

“People are often unreasonable and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are honest, people may cheat you. Be honest anyway. If you find happiness, people may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today may be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough. Give your best anyway. For you see, in the end, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.” ~Mother Teresa

Have a Fabulous Friday, Everyone!!
Hugs and Many Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

Hiding in the Shadows

2011-12-14T20:37:00.003-06:00

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"Hiding in the shadows, makes it impossible to move forward." ~unknown

Hiding in the Shadows

by Ellen Bailey

Do not stand in the shadow of someone else
When you can cast a shadow of yourself
A shadow is your reflection on the ground
It must be distinct if it is to be found

Step out of the darkness and into the light
Display your personal talents without fright
A day will come when you are called to lead
Do not shrink from your chance to succeed

Move to the forefront and take control
Seize the challenges of life and be bold
Don't let someone else take your place
You are a unique member of the Human Race

Just so you know my random thoughts ;-)

2011-12-13T18:56:00.002-06:00

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"Random thoughts are received with no context for it, no pre-conceived notions or bias." ~unknown

http://diyphotography.net

Just so you know... I got a new job!!!!

... a step up and with lots of people!

Just so you know... I'm a little nervous

... that comes with any 'change' though.

Just so you know... I prayed a lot

... for the right job & in the right timing.

Just so you know... I believe

... I got some answers last weekend.

Just so you know... some answers
... were more than a little shocking.

Just so you know... I'm not afraid

... fear keeps us from what we want.

Just so you know... I keep trying
... and learning from my mistakes.

Just so you know... I depend on me
... so I'm never disappointed. ;-)

Be Happy Everyone!!! :-)

Living with Integrity

2011-12-11T14:14:00.002-06:00

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"Living with integrity means: * Not settling for less than what you know you deserve in your relationships. * Asking for what you want and need from others. * Speaking your truth, even though it might create conflict or tension. * Behaving in ways that are in harmony with your personal values. * Making choices based on what you believe, and not what others believe." ~Barbara De Angelia

zazzle.com

"If we believe a thing to be bad, and if we have a right to prevent it, it is our duty to try to prevent it and damn the consequences." ~Lord Milner

I've tried my whole life to live with integrity. Although I'm not perfect and slip like we all do, I have a constant goal to stand up for those being taken advantage of or treated unfairly; those not given the opportunities they deserve; those who need a friend or just someone to believe in and fight for them.

I believe that if we all spoke up or stepped in when we see or hear someone doing something we know is wrong, there would be less abuse and more accountability in the world. It seems that more people are concerned with their own careers and social standing than they are with their own moral obligations as a human being.

How some people can can look away when they see someone is being abused; instead of stopping it and protecting vulnerable adults and especially children, is beyond my comprehensions. How do those who don't speak up, doing nothing, look at themselves in the mirror or go home to their own children and families? That is the hardest thing for me to understand.

I've been told that I care too much and that it's the mothering nature in me that brings me to help those I see hurting. However, I feel that although none of us can control other people's actions; we should all care enough to speak up. To stop situations we know are wrong, anyway that we can, making people accountable for their actions.

I know in my own abusive experiences that once someone was confronted, they were forced to be at least some what accountable. Excuses for bad behavior seldom go on if others outside of the situation speak up and tell them they are abusive. It's amazing how so many who believe they have a right to treat someone badly, can suddenly 'stop' when a peer speaks up to them. But not when the person they are abusing tries to defend themselves. Somehow it's always their fault according to the abuser.

An abuser has no integrity. However the knowledge someone else has, can stop the abuse if they have the integrity to do what is right; even if it effects them negatively or has consequences either personally or professionally. I have no respect for those who have the knowledge to change or stop a bad situations; but do nothing.

I haven't always had the knowledge in situations, where I wish I had. However I can think of many times where someone has had the knowledge, but not the integrity, to use that knowledge to help others. If more people lived with Integrity and didn't look the other way, the world would be a much better place.

"Integrity without knowledge is weak and useless, and knowledge without integrity is dangerous and dreadful." ~Samuel Johnson (Rasselas, ch. 41)

Half Full & Aloha Friday Question!

2011-12-09T05:00:00.005-06:00

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"A great attitude does much more than turn on the lights in our worlds; it seems to magically connect us to all sorts of serendipitous opportunities that were somehow absent before the change." ~Author Unknown

“Some of the greatest things in life are unseen. That's why you close your eyes when you kiss, cry or dream." ~Author Unknown

For the next week, we challenge you to keep a list of at least one thing that brought you happiness each day.

I'm Happy and Thankful for many things every day... especially this week:

For getting around safely in the snow!

For the company of a good friend!

For a great interview this week!

For not 'needing' anyone's help.

For good dreams at night!

For only '1' more day to wait!

For getting the answers I seek soon.

For Christmas plans in Chicago!!

For nice neighbors!

"Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions." ~Dalai Lama

"Love, compassion, and forgiveness towards one's neighbor will bring peace in your relationships." ~Beatitudes

My question: For you, what is the most important religious message or 'traditions'?

My answer: I think the following quote says it best: Love, Compassion and Forgiveness, shown everyday; not just on Christmas or Sundays. :-)

"All major religious traditions carry basically the same message, that is love, compassion and forgiveness the important thing is they should be part of our daily lives." ~Dalai Lama

Have a Loving Friday, Everyone!!
Hugs and Many Blessings,

~ Coreen XO

All Over the Place...Random Tuesday Thoughts

2011-12-06T04:00:00.007-06:00

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"Random thoughts are received with no context for it, no pre-conceived notions or bias." ~unknown

http://diyphotography.net

Just so you know... I love animals

... they fill me with happiness and peace.

Just so you know... I have a strong intuition

... I can know and feel things without reason.

Just so you know... I have several options

... I'm praying Wednesday gives me direction.

Just so you know... I'm still kind to people

... even if we've outgrown our friendship.

Just so you know... only '4' more days
... to learning the answers that I seek.

Just so you know... I have great empathy

... I've even been called an empath.

Just so you know... I read about empaths
... and I have to agree it sounds like me. :)

Just so you know... I truly like who I am
... so I don't worry what others think. ;-)

HAPPY TUESDAY!!! :-)

Why I suddenly Love Winter... just look outside!

2011-12-04T17:04:00.004-06:00

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"Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home."~Edith Sitwell

"Let Us Love Winter. For is it the spring of genius." ~Pietro Aretino

"In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy." ~William Blake

"People don't notice whether it's winter or summer when they're happy." ~Anton Chekhov

"There is nothing in the world more beautiful than the forest clothed to its very hollow in snow. It is the still ecstasy of nature, wherein every spray, every blade of grass. Every spire of need, every intricacy of twig, is clad with radiance." ~William Sharp

"Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour." ~John Boswell