Archive | May 2016

Delight In Whatever Path You Choose

The sea brings me back to me

With travel season upon us, there was much discussion with friends over the holiday weekend, on where everyone was spending their summer vacations.

As to be expected, each person had very different directions and agendas in mind for the coming months. Some were excited about a big city adventure, or flying to another country, while others desired the solitude of a book on a nearby beach.

A few weren’t sure just which path they wanted to travel yet, but got some good ideas from the conversation.

Regardless of the location or activity we choose, we all share the common need for taking a break from our everyday routines. I don’t think there is a wrong way to spend our time off except for becoming overwhelmed with the details.

Ideally, living in vacation mode all year long, with regularly scheduled sources of enjoyment, would be a worthwhile adventure as well.

What places uplift your spirits the most?

Look For Messages

May20

message in a bottle

A message can come in an unexpected way,

like a note in a bottle washing ashore one day.

Though it may not sound practical but who is to say,

that a message in a bottle isn’t headed your way!

Until that day arrives, the card above should suffice,

for delivering a great affirmation, that is positive and nice!

– Cathie Barash

Have a great weekend everybody!

Compare Yourself to Yourself

May18

compare yourself to yourself4

Too often, we compare ourselves to others who seem to be more joyful, talented, or enlightened than we are, rather than celebrating ourselves, and how far we’ve come in our own life.

Even if we do appreciate our journey, and all that we’ve gained so far, it can seem to pale in comparison to someone else who is getting more accolades or attention for their position in life.

It is at these times that we need to remember to compare ourselves to ourselves, and revel in the progress we’ve made, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the help we’ve provided to others.

By honoring the changes, wisdom or growth we’ve experienced thus far, we are better able to notice, and appreciate the positive contributions we make in our world, even if we aren’t famous around the world.

We do not have to be a renowned professional in order to add value to the sphere around us. However, we do need to rejoice in our individuality, and enjoy the skills that we have been blessed with.

For instance, many of us are innately wonderful teachers, homemakers, photographers, artists, parents and communicators. Our originality is needed, and we shouldn’t mistakenly believe that anyone can do what we do, just because it comes naturally to us. We are one of a kind.

So, rather than discounting or comparing ourselves to someone else, it is important to see our natural abilities as specially designed for a purpose beyond our imaginings, and allow them their full expression. After all, it would be pretty boring if all the flowers in a garden looked the same or we were all alike.

What quality about yourself do you enjoy?

Make May Meditation Month

May4

meditation month A while ago, I had written a mindfulness mantra, and the meditation process listed below. Many reported that they found both to be very helpful. Meditation is also discussed on Day 4 of my 21 Day personal development guide.

No better time than the present to get started or recharge the habit. Candles and soft music are optional but are wonderful accompaniments!

Enjoy!

Find a quiet and peaceful place where you won’t be disturbed.

Close your eyes and take several deep breaths.

Breathe in good thoughts, soothing images, and peaceful outcomes.

Breathe out tension, stress, anxiety and fear.

Select a positive statement or series of statements such as, “I love my life,” “All is well,” or “Everything works out for my highest good.”

Introduce those affirmations while you visualize a ball of light entering the top of your head and traveling down to the tips of your toes, spreading a healing energy throughout your body.