Peace ripple...

Be Infinitely Patient

2011-05-02T16:12:00.000+10:00

"Being infinitely patient means having an absolute knowing that you're in vibrational harmony with the all-creating force that intended you here. You know that everything will happen at just the right time, at just the right place, with just the right people." ~ Dr. Wayne Dyer

I love this quote...I do know this, I just forget it sometimes. I know that when I am aligned with Trusting the unfolding of my life, I Know that everything is happening exactly as it should. I feel Peace and I move through my life with lightness and joy.

Harold Whitman quote

2011-03-01T20:19:00.001+11:00

"Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." - Harold Whitman

I love this quote! What makes you come alive? What makes your soul sing? What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?

Go take a step in that direction...feels good huh?!

Success is an inside job.

2011-01-14T19:44:00.000+11:00

"Being relaxed, at peace with yourself, confident, emotionally neutral, loose, and free-floating- these are the keys to successful performance in almost everything you do." - Dr. Wayne Dyer

LUMINARIES - PEACE (MUSIC VIDEO)

2010-10-04T14:39:00.001+11:00

I am not usually into hip-hop music, but I changed my mind after hearing this!

A choice..

2010-09-29T22:15:00.000+10:00

A lot of people complicate the path to Peace.

It can be very simple...a choice...

I can choose to be stressed and cranky...or I can choose to see this moment unfolding exactly as it should, especially when it is beyond my control. In choosing the latter, I release my control and can flow much more in tune with the situation. With no need for control, I am then free to create. And I will create whatever I think about.

I choose Peace!

peace education...

2010-08-28T10:11:00.000+10:00

Take the hand of your child and invite her to go out and sit with you on the grass.

The two of you may want to contemplate the green grass,

the little flowers that grow among the grasses, and the sky.

Breathing and smiling together - that is peace education.

If we know how to appreciate these beautiful things,

we will not have to search for anything else.

Peace is available in every moment, in every breath, in every step.

- Thich Nhat Hanh

A little story...

2010-08-08T08:43:00.002+10:00

A boat docked in a tiny Mexican village and an American tourist complimented the Mexican fisherman on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them.

"Not very long," said the fisherman.

"But then why didn't you stay out longer and catch more?" Asked the American.

The Mexican explained that his small catch was sufficient to meet his needs and those of his family.
The American asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?"

"I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children and take a siesta with my wife. In the evenings, I go to the village to see my friends, have a few drinks, play guitar and sing songs... I have a full life."

The American interrupted "I have an MBA from Harvard and I can help you! You should start by fishing longer every day. You can then sell the extra fish you catch. With the extra revenue, you can buy a bigger boat. With the extra money the bigger boat will bring, you can buy more boats until you have an entire fleet of trawlers. Instead of selling fish to the middle man, you can go directly to the processing plant and maybe even own your own plant. Then, you can leave this little village and direct your enterprise from Mexico City or even New York City!

"How long would that take?" asked the Mexican.

"Twenty, maybe 25 years." replied the American.

"And after that?"

"Afterwards? Then it gets really interesting, answered the American, laughing. "When your business gets really big you can start sellingstocks and make millions!"

"Millions? Really? And after that?"

"After that, you'll be able to retire, live in a tiny village near the coast, sleep late, play with your children, catch a few fish, take a siesta, and spend your evenings drinking and enjoying your friends!"

Heat Hugs..

2010-07-11T07:47:00.000+10:00

When you hug someone you know, to which side do you hug on? Often it is the 'right side' hug.

I offer a suggestion...try hugging to the left and let your hearts connect for a moment. I have found that this adds a depth to my hugs. ...Try it and let me know what you think.

Decisions..

2010-06-09T21:42:00.002+10:00

As we get older with more experience under our belt, it can be an interesting game to play "what if..?". What if I had moved south instead of north, what if I'd taken that other job instead of the one I did. What if I'd married / not married / had kids / not had kids ..etc. We can get lost in the other scenario for a while and fantasize of how much better or different it would have been. The different things we would own and do. But would we still be the same people...waking up one day wondering what life would be like if we took the path we actually did? This game can consume us, or it can be an interesting question to ask to just review our choices thus far.

Perhaps we could focus not on the things we might have, but on the person we are really wishing to BE. Perhaps we play that game because we are out of alignment with our true nature. Although we are all very busy, it could be that we are lacking depth with ourselves, with who we really are. It is easy to blame other people whether that is our parents, teachers, boss, or partner...or even life itself.

Let's look at our Selves first...take responsibility for our actions and know that we have always done the best we could with the level of awareness of where we were at the time. If something is not feeling quite right in your life, it could very well be something you can change within yourself. You can make that decision right now...

labels

2010-04-28T08:05:00.003+10:00

How many times do you get caught up thinking of yourself as one thing as defined by what you do...for example, a parent, a plumber, a banker, etc.

And then you get confused because you feel like you're not just that, you're also a son, a sister, a friend, a member of a sports or social group, someone who has to take care of the family finances, do the maintenance on the car, clean the house, do volunteer work, etc.

We are all so busy these days! Yet sometimes think we can only focus on one of these sides of ourselves at a time.

What if you thought of yourself as a diamond? So many different sides, yet it takes all of them to capture the light to make it shine so very brightly..

..that is you!

Don't try to limit yourself with one label. Know that it is good to have different sides of yourself. You don't have to show just one at a time. Let yourself move through those different aspects of yourself as if you were imagining moving a diamond in the light, watching yourself sparkle as you show your best in each situation. Flow effortlessly through the different aspects that move together to make you the sparkling light that you are.

anger...and peace

2010-04-21T06:33:00.004+10:00

I went to a discussion on anger and peace a couple of nights ago. There was a lot of talk about anger - what it actually; is it beneficial; how we use it; what it means to different people; how to handle other people's anger; do peaceful people feel anger; etc..

I realised that I very rarely feel anger these days. Oh yes, I have in the past...I would get frustrated rather easily, but not say anything until it had built upon itself to the point that it needed to be released. I was torn between the power I knew I had inside of me and the rules and conditionings I was raised to follow. I rebelled and struggled and tried not to hurt others. Denying myself only prolonged my own hurt until I found the courage to reclaim my power and heal.

I was attracted to go to the discussion because they were to be talking about Peace...and I just love that topic! The majority of the evening was on anger and I started wondering why I was there. I don't know if I said anything during the evening that may have helped someone, but it probably helped with my connection to that community, just by contributing. On the way home, I realised that I have come so far on my journey. I chose a path of Peace, and even if I wasn't always peaceful, I was working towards that goal. Talking about anger gave me a greater appreciation for the Peace in my life and made me feel lighter.

When people spoke about their anger, they spoke also of a physical expression of that - hitting a wall, kicking an object etc. Have you ever been really angry and not been able to physically release that? Can you sit still in a chair and say "I'm really angry?". Probably not...you need to move and raise your arms and stride around and, because you are feeling hurt, you also feel like releasing that in a way that may reflect hurt, whether it's hitting a pillow or a wall or kicking something. It just doesn't seem to release it as well if you start doing jumping jacks or some such activity.

As physical movement helps to release anger, what if could also work on preventing those anger spikes by taking steps every day to avoid getting to that level? A lot of people just do not get enough physical activity. We sit at computers for hours, we stroll around a shopping center, we press some buttons on the washing machine. Then we go for a 20 minute walk and think we've gotten our exercise for the day. We need movement to release all of the little frustrations that our daily lives bring. Plus, movement releases endorphins which help us just to feel good.

What else can help us prevent anger, and even reduce frustration? It has to start by taking care of your physical body...movement, eating foods that give you energy, getting enough sleep. And you also have to consider your mind - speaking your truth, stating in a calm, assertive manner how you feel especially if you feel someone has said or done something that has bothered you. It takes courage and confidence to do this. When I started working out at the gym, I noticed that as my physical body got stronger, my mind did too and confidence came with that and helped me to stand my own ground and pursue my own goals.

Having a spiritual practice helps also. Meditation is wonderful for quietening the mind and getting in touch with the deeper part of Who You Really Are. Once you know that, or have even touched on that a little bit, your personal light shines brighter and other people can sense that. When you show respect and kindness for yourself, by taking care of yourself physically, mentally and spiritually, you project that out and will find more people treating you in a more respectful and kind way. Your ability to deal with little frustrations increases and the incidence of anger in your self greatly decreases. It doesn't mean anger will stop all together right away, but it will decrease over time. It's a beautiful thing. It just starts with a decision to live a peaceful path.

Forgiving yourself

2010-04-02T20:42:00.003+11:00

Have you ever had your child or a good friend do or say something to you that they were later sorry for? Did they ask you to forgive them? If so, you probably did. A little hurt may have lingered, but it was then forgotten.

Have you ever done anything that you were really sorry for? Something that you just couldn't change or make right?

It's so easy to stay in a state of guilt and mentally beat ourselves up. It can even last for years. But is that helpful? I think once we've reached the point where we realise we did the wrong thing, the lesson has been learned and there is no point in dragging it out, or denying ourselves other pleasures until we feel worthy in our own eyes again. As soon as we realise the lesson, we can apply that knowledge and commitment to our lives to make sure we don't repeat it.

Some of us have to overcome some old conditionings first before we can get to that though. It's not exactly easy to get to that point where we can just let go and move on.

Many years ago I listened to the recording of Marianne Williamson's 'A Return To Love', based on her experience with A Course In Miracles. At one point, she recounts trying to forgive a man who stood her up on a date she had been really looking forward to. She repeated over and over "I forgive you Mike, and I release you to the Holy Spirit.."...until she realised that she really did forgive him. I've tried it with other people and it has worked beautifully. You don't have to say "Holy Spirit"... use words that are meaningful to you.

I've been thinking of something I did that I am not proud of that has been lingering in the back of my mind. I decided it was time to let it go so I changed Marianne's mantra and applied it to myself..."I forgive you Annette, and I release this situation...". You know what? It's working! I have carried this with me for a long time. I will never do that again, I knew that a long time ago, but now I feel free of the weight of that hard lesson.

Is there anything you might want to forgive yourself for? Perhaps it's time to do so...

Divine orchestration

2010-03-21T18:16:00.004+11:00

My husband and I were talking about all of the subtle choices we made leading up to us meeting. So many options were divinely presented and we chose where we felt most strongly led. We were two people from opposite sides of the world who "happened" to meet on a tropical island. When we met, we knew that there was a definite energy between us, and there was almost an audible sigh from the little angels around us that sat back, breathed out and said "ahhh...finally!!"
The funny thing is that we thought we were in control! I guess we were, kind of. But our meeting felt like it was something that was meant to happen, no matter what. So I think that even if we hadn't met that night, other opportunities would have been arranged to ensure we did meet.

I guess some things are like that. Some lessons, and some people, are so important in our lives, that they will come to us no matter what, even if we try to avoid it in a particular way, it will be presented in another way.

We can try and stay in control and plan our lives, but people and events are going to pop up that we could never have expected, especially if they make us uncomfortable. It's important to Trust that these situations bring us their own gifts. Perhaps that is learning to love someone who does things we may not understand - accepting them for who they are. Perhaps it is learning to love ourselves enough to say "no" to someone, to stand up for your own beliefs. Perhaps it is learning to accept something that we just can't change. It's all a part of your particular journey. And once it's happened, it can't be changed, it can only be learned from.

Enjoy!

How does your garden grow?

2010-02-08T20:02:00.004+11:00

Towards the end of Spring, my children and I planted seeds for tomatoes and lettuce and some herbs. Every morning we'd go out first thing and check to see if there was any progress. We'd talk to the seeds and give them some energy and check the soil to see if it was moist enough. We were so excited when they started to grow!

We left to go away for 10 days and, as it was expected to rain, I did not ask a neighbour to drop by and water them. But it did not rain, and it was rather warm. When we got back, they were not looking very well, and as I had gotten out of the habit of tending to them every morning, I sometimes missed a day of checking on them. Then we got rain. A lot of rain. And it didn't do them any good either. Long story short...we didn't get any tomatoes or lettuce and the herbs are doing just ok.

I got to thinking of how we - specifically our health (physical, mental and spiritual) - are like a garden. Often we'll get all excited about a new exercise program, or course of study or meditation technique. We'll get up a little early every morning to take time for ourselves to pursue those things. But then we get distracted. Easily. We think, "oh, I'll just put on a load of washing" or, "I'll just return that business call first". Things like that and it gets harder and harder to find our momentum again.

We need to remember to tend to our own inner lives. To make time to pursue the things that interest us. That by giving ourselves attention, every single day, our lives will become more abundant. Like watering the plants, tending to the weeds, feeding them the nutrients they need and watching them blossom so that they can give more to those around them.

It's like a car battery. If the engine isn't running, the battery isn't charging. You can have the headlights on, the radio, and it will eventually kill the battery (giving to everybody but yourself). On the other hand, if you run the engine, you charge the battery at the same time and you can run the lights and the radio as much as you like (give to yourself first so that you can in turn give to others).

I don't mean being selfish and ignoring others. So many people live their lives totally for other people, usually their family, whether they live with them or not. Always considering the needs of other people first. If you're reading this, you most likely fall into that category. Especially Parents with children and partners to consider as they try to balance work and home life.

Make yourself a priority, at least 15 minutes each day. Treat yourself with care and respect . Know that you deserve that time.

Quote and a comment

2010-02-03T08:57:00.005+11:00

"Think of your body as a sacred temple, and extend reverence as a form of love. Be aware of, and grateful for, every organ, every drop of blood, every appendage, and every cell that constitutes your body. Start right this minute by offering a silent prayer of gratitude for your liver, your heart, and your brain." - Dr Wayne Dyer

I think when we remember to do this, when we are gentle with our minds and our bodies, we naturally gravitate towards taking better care of our physical form. We eat healthy food because we want to, not because we have to. We move because it feels good, not like a chore. And the expression of love for ourselves is radiated to those around us. Health becomes our new standard and we realise that it feels so good to feel good! What's more - you deserve it!

A message from Neale Donald Walsch...

2010-01-04T19:55:00.001+11:00

On this day of your life, dear friend, I believe God wants you to know...

...that as you start the first full work week of the NewYear you should do no 'work' at all. The point of your activities throughout the day is not to make a living, but to make a life; not to 'work' but to create joy.

If you are doing what you are doing merely to 'pay the bills,' you will have missed the major reason for All Of Life.

The purpose of life is to know and express Who You Are. If you do other than that during the days and times of your life, you will have not used those days and times in a way that profits your soul. It is soul profit we are after here, not body profit.

This first week of the New Year is a good time to contemplate that, yes?
Love, Your Friend.... Neale

Mother Teresa quote..

2009-12-31T07:27:00.002+11:00

"I know you think you should make a trip to Calcutta, but I strongly advise you to save your airfare and spend it on the poor in your own country. It's easy to love people far away. It's not always easy to love those who live right next to us. There are thousands of people dying for a bit of bread, but there are thousands more dying for a bit of love or a bit of acknowledgement. The truth is that the worst disease today is not leprosy or tuberculosis; it's being unwanted, it's being left out, it's being forgotten" ~ Mother Teresa

overcoming judgement

2009-12-14T07:18:00.004+11:00

I met a new friend recently. During the conversation, she was saying how she recognised that she often passed judgement on other people, before she had met them, based on the opinions of others. She was not sure if she should do that, but seemed to be stuck in that pattern. I wanted to explore that with her, but just could not find the words. Thinking about it now, I know why, and I also know what I would have said. Which is:

"It's very nice that you want to show loyalty to your friends by siding with them, but do you always know if your friends are right? The person that appears to be mean that you are judging - do you know what made them like that? Perhaps they had something really horrible happen to them in the past and their behaviour now is a defense mechanism. Or a cry for help -'I'm in pain'. Who are we to judge another anyway? Has our own behaviour been exemplary? Imagine if we were slower to judge others and quicker to show kindness and compassion, what a world this could be!
We can choose to distance ourselves from mean people, and if we have to be in their presence, we can choose to shine our own light so that we are less affected by any darkness they may emit. I am not saying we should ignore or accept behaviour that we find uncomfortable. We need to define our own limits in those cases by clearly and calmly expressing what we will not tolerate. But in situations where we do not even know someone and we start judging them without having all of the facts, perhaps we could refrain from judgement and maintain and open heart and an open mind."

I figured out the reason that I was not able to express this to the new friend....it was because I had not fully learned this myself.

quote

2009-12-07T10:27:00.000+11:00

"We are on the planet to be and express the Divine Love of God that is alive in every fiber of our being, waiting to be released through us onto our world. Living as love is a way of life that brings heaven on earth. "

Michael Beckwith, Agape Ministries

Peace signs

2009-10-05T18:12:00.005+11:00

We want Peace and non-violence:

Two friends drawing "the largest Peace sign" on the beach:

A Peace Ripple:

Inspiration:
http://www.theworldmarch.org

Riding the waves..

2009-09-28T08:33:00.007+10:00

Sometimes I feel like I'm going around in circles with the same highs and lows and the same thoughts behind those.

I alternate between wanting to get rid of everything and travel, and then wanting a cosy home and a huge vege garden.
I alternate between feeling free of old conditionings and then trapped by them.
I alternate between feeling so full and sure of the way I'm living my life and feeling so full of doubt and confusion and wondering if I'm doing enough.

What I'm really learning is to be gentle with myself.

Life is not always calm waters. It's more like the beach and the waves - they have peaks and troughs, some dump on you, others let you ride it gracefully in to shore, others seem a little scary when you first get on, but prove to be a huge thrill when you overcome that initial fear.

I can see how I've lived all of those kinds of waves. I get frustrated with the cycle sometimes, but I need to just accept it, thank it even.

Looking back on my life, I can see a pattern and can see how, gradually, there is a shift occurring. I am spending less time in confusion and more time in certainty, less time in old conditionings and more time in new. Less time feeling trapped, and more time feeling free and peaceful. I can really see it happening. I want to stay in the free and peaceful state, but sometimes it slips away. I am getting better about staying in that state longer and longer each time and I miss it when I don't have it. I am becoming more aware of the subtle things that keep me there. These are huge lessons! Instead of feeling frustrated, perhaps I am being guided to just Trust that I am experiencing a lesson that will help take me to an even deeper Peace. If I am gentle during that unfolding rather than frustrated, the process will probably take less time.

Another thing I'm learning when I look outside of myself to fix things or change things or relationships, is that I probably should be looking inside of myself. They are probably indicators that my connection to ME has slipped and when I can get back in touch with that, everything else just starts flowing again.

The lessons I'm learning all seem to say the same things - Stay in the Moment, Be present, Peace starts within. Sometimes I need to hear those things over and over and sometimes it's like I'm hearing it for the first time, in a totally new way.

So I'll keep riding my waves and aim to stay fully present and in-joying the journey.

International Day of Peace

2009-09-21T06:18:00.001+10:00

A Message from Chunyi Lin
on International Day of Peace
Monday, September 21, 2009

Hello my dear friend,
There is a beautiful song, most often heard at Christmas time, which starts, "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me." On this International Day of Peace, wouldn't it be wonderful if we all carried those words within us and lived those words from our hearts?

For there to be peace on earth, each of us must truly say, "Let it begin with me." That is where it all begins.

"Lao Tzu said, "If there is to be peace in the world...in the nations...in the cities...between neighbors...in the home...there must be peace in the heart." Peace begins in the heart because the heart is the seat of love and, as Gandhi said, "Love is the strongest force the world possesses...."
If we call upon this unconditional love--if we simply focus on the love in each of our hearts and let this limitless, perfect, healing love flow into us and through us--then we can find that perfect peace. We can live in that perfect peace, and we can bring that peace to our homes, our countries, our world.

Please take at least a moment today to focus on your heart, feel the flow of unconditional love coming into you, and then focus on sending that love to everyone you encounter this day. Open your heart and open your mind and see that perfect love flowing through every person throughout our world.

On this special day, please join me in living the message of that beautiful Christmas carol:
"Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me."

In love and peace,
Chunyi

Wayne Dyer quotes:

2009-09-18T20:04:00.002+10:00

"Be reflective like a mirror, and reflect what comes into your life without judgements or opinions.

Be unattached to all that come into your life by not demanding that they stay, go, or appear at my whim.

Discontinue judging myself or others for being too fat/skinny, too tall/short, too pretty/ugly, anything. Just as the power of intention reflects and accepts me without judgement or attachment: I will be the same with what appears in my life... "

"View the events you consider obstacles as perfect opportunities to test your resolve and find your purpose."

I have found another way of dealing with obstacles is to actually thank the situation. When you come from a place of Gratitude for the challenging situations, not just the good ones, you tap into a Faith, a Trust in Spirit / God. I know that I am never sent anything that I cannot handle so I see each new challenge as a chance to grow and learn.

A wish..

2009-09-02T08:41:00.001+10:00

May today there be peace within.

May you trust that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith in yourself and others.

May you use the gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be content with yourself just the way you are.

Let this knowledge settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.

Gratitude quotes...

2009-08-29T20:27:00.001+10:00

"It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful."
--
Brother David Steindl-Rast

"As I express my gratitude, I become more deeply aware of it. And the greater my awareness, the greater my need to express it. What happens here is a spiraling ascent, a process of growth in ever expanding circles around a steady center." (not sure where this one came from)

Living Your Yoga

2009-08-15T13:55:00.004+10:00

In my previous post I wrote that I was choosing not to buy a book because I was in a place of exploring on my own. As 'coincidence' would have it, I came across a copy of that book. I put aside my judgements and ego and decided that perhaps there were some lessons in that book that could assist me, as long as I maintained my own true path and did not take on a role that sounded good but really, didn't fit.

So I have started reading "Living Your Yoga" by Judith Lasater. I am enjoying it as much as having a conversation with a like-minded friend. This book was brought to me to clarify the path that I am on, to deepen my understanding of what I already know, and to state some truths simply and eloquently, such as this paragraph on page 6:

"..spiritual seeking is not what we do outwardly, but what we acknowledge inwardly. To practice yoga in the deepest sense is to commit to developing awareness by observing our lives: our thoughts, our words, and our actions. There are many yoga techniques that can support us along the way, such as yoga poses, breathing practices, and meditation. But these are not ends in themselves, but means to the Self. The real beginning of spiritual practice is evident when we accept responsibility for ourselves, that is, when we acknowledge that ultimately there are no answers outside of ourselves, and no gurus, no teachers, and no philosophies that can solve the problems of our lives. They can only suggest, guide and inspire. It is our dedication to living with open hearts and our commitment to the day-to-day details of our lives that will transform us. When we are open to the present moment, we shine forth. At these times, we are not on a spiritual path: we are the spiritual path."

Authenticity

2009-07-31T14:09:00.003+10:00

I recently heard of a book called "Living Your Yoga" by Judith Hanson Lasater. It caught my attention as I'd recently come to the awareness that my life is my yoga - my spiritual practice. It is occurring every single moment, not just on Sunday mornings.

In every moment of every day, I get a chance to practice kindness and respect and compassion and non-judgement and non-violence and gratitude. I get to remember Who I Really Am and show how I can express that and become even more.
I get to align myself with my Faith in a greater power and Trust in that guidance.

In doing so, I get to feel strong and empowered with a deep peace underlying my actions. For the most part...I am still learning to incorporate this and so I do slip into old conditionings some times.

I thought about buying the book. But decided against it. I'm sure there are some great tips in it, but it would be written from the authors point of view and right now, I'm Living MY Yoga.

Are you living yours, or are you living a life that someone else wants you to?

Direction

2009-07-10T03:03:00.000+10:00

Here are a few questions that may help you figure out what is most meaningful in your life and what you want to do with your life.

1. What 5 things do you value most in life?

2. In 30 seconds, write down the three most important goals in your life.

3. What would you do if you won a million dollars?

4. What would you do if you learned that you had only 6 months to live?

5. What have you always wanted to do but have not done?

6. In looking back over your life, what type of activities gave you the greatest feeling of importance, self-esteem, mental well-being, self-worth, etc.

7. If you had one wish from a genie, what one thing would you do if you knew you could not fail?

~ If you don't think you have the answer to any of these questions, just imagine that you had the answer. You don't have to show your answers to anyone else. This is a little evaluation for yourself to see if you are on track - heading towards or even already living the life that you desire. It may even prompt you to make some changes to enable you to start living the life you really desire. Look inside - you know your truth. Are you in alignment with it?

Nourish your Soul

2009-06-20T01:01:00.002+10:00

On this day of your life, dear friend, I believe God wants you to know.....

that it is time for you to give your mind a respite,

a retreat from all the illusions of your Every Day.

How long has it been since you paid attention -- real attention -- to your soul?

There are many ways to nourish the soul, but you often must stop, just simply stop, life as you are living it...if only for an hour or a day or a week...and take some time to gift your soul. Or, more accurately, to allow your soul to gift you.

Is there a book you have been dying to read?

A personal growth workshop you wish you could take?

A lecture you hope you can fit into your busy life?

Do it. Do it now. You think you can't afford the time or the money?

I tell you, you can't afford not to.
Love, Your Friend....

Neale

from Neale Donald Walsch

2009-06-06T02:12:00.001+10:00

On this day of your life, dear friend I believe God wants you to know.......

that the time has come for you to nourish your soul.

When was the last time that you swam naked?

Or sang in the shower?

Or blew bubbles?

Or held a puppy?

Or kissed a baby?

Or made love all Sunday afternoon?

Or prayed really softly, not from need, but from love?

Has it been a while?Then hurry. Do it. Hurry.This is life that is going by...
Love, Your Friend.... Neale

What if...

2009-05-04T06:28:00.001+10:00

What if we knew for certain that everything we're worried about today will work out fine?

What if . . . we had a guarantee that the problem bothering us would be worked out in the most perfect way, and at the best possible time?
Furthermore, what if we knew that three years from now we'd be grateful for that problem, and its solution?

What if . . . we knew that even our worst fear would work out for the best?

What if . . . we had a guarantee that everything that's happening, and has happened, in our life was meant to be, planned just for us, and in our best interest?

What if . . . we had a guarantee that the people we love are experiencing exactly what they need in order to become who they're intended to become?
Further, what if we had a guarantee that others can be responsible for themselves, and we don't have to control or take responsibility for them?

What if . . . we knew the future was going to be good, and we would have an abundance of resources and guidance to handle whatever comes our way?

What if . . . we knew everything was okay, and we didn't have to worry about a thing? What would we do then?
We'd be free to let go and enjoy life.~ Melody Beattie (The Language of Letting Go)

What is in your ripple right now?

2009-04-26T07:24:00.003+10:00

What kind of energy are you sharing with the world? It starts within you....so what is there, at your core? Are you feeling an underlying sense of frustration? Or calm? fear or love?

Your choice. What you feel, others around you also feel. Whether they choose to accept that into their Being depends on their level of awareness and inner strength. But you can affect others just with your presence by projecting love and peace when you really feel that within.

What a wonderful world that would be!

A note from Neale Donald Walsch...

2009-04-15T06:33:00.000+10:00

On this day of your life, dear friend, I believe God wants you to know......

that what your heart thinks is great, is great.

The soul's emphasis is always right.

Ralph Waldo Emerson said that, and he was correct.

The mind is the last part of yourself to listen to. It thinks of everything you can lose. The heart thinks ofeverything you can give, and the soul thinks ofeverything you are.

I will leave it up to you to decide which of thosethree is the most important...

Peace Parent...

2009-04-04T07:12:00.005+11:00

Being a parent is the hardest (and the very best) thing I've ever done. Aiming to find and maintain peace and balance within myself and teach my children these things has been a major factor in how I parent. I admit it's been a rocky road at times but I am so much better than I used to be. In my deepest self, I knew what was possible, but I had to wade through some old conditionings in order to get close to there.

I like this article by Scott Noelle as he reminds me that peace is created within each of us and we can choose that state anytime, even during parenting challenges.

http://www.scottnoelle.com/parenting/unconditional.htm

a little taste:

Some parents believe that giving selflessly to their children is proof of their unconditional love. But parental self-sacrifice is an insidious form of conditionality that diminishes both parent and child. Its true colors are exposed when the self-sacrificing parent eventually snaps and says, “How can you treat me that way after all I’ve sacrificed for you!?”

What gets us in trouble is focusing too much on what we’re doing and not enough on how we’re being. The behavior of unconditional loving (what we do) arises from a particular state of mind (how we be), and I call that state of mind unconditionality.

...
Unconditionality is selfish in the best sense of the word, because your own well-being becomes your top priority. You give to your child only what you can give happily, and that sets in motion a pattern of giving that continually increases your well-being instead of feeling like a drain. This leads to more generosity, not less.
Unconditionality increases your sense of freedom; it never limits your choices. It’s entirely possible to be in the state of unconditionality and passionately desire conditions to change.

...
Unconditionality is “an inside job.” It’s about how you interpret external conditions. It’s powerful because, while you can’t always control conditions, you can always change your mind. You can always find thoughts that feel better (or at least bring you some relief) when you think them. And how you think eventually influences outer conditions.

...
You see, if you decide up front that you’re going to enjoy your relationship with your child unconditionally — no matter what — then what you are actually doing is opening up your creative channels. You are saying to yourself, “I don’t know how I’m going to pull this off, but I’m open to finding a way to enjoy (or appreciate, or be at peace with, etc.) anything that happens between me and my child.”

...

What kind of thoughts are likely to come to you in a state of unconditionality?
* Nothing is worth sacrificing my peace for.
* It’s good to know that my well-being is not dependent on what anyone else does or thinks.
* I’m bigger than this. I’m more powerful than this condition.
* My child is reminding me that having control over others is unimportant.
* I appreciate that my child is not a mindless lemming!
* My child is learning to find his own way.
* I love that my child knows what she wants.
* I’m grateful to my child for giving me this opportunity to practice unconditionality.

...
Unconditionality empowers you to create what you want from the inside out, while conditionality requires change from the outside in. When you truly shift inside, you can taste the deliciousness of well-being instantly, and any subsequent outer change is just icing on the cake.

...
Of course you can take this information and apply it to any relationship.

Peace Is Possible...quotes by Maharaji (Prem Rawat) pt 4

2009-04-02T08:49:00.000+11:00

" I invite you to take a peek inside to know what this existence is all about. Be who you are. Be fulfilled every day so you can fulfill others. Be fulfilled every day so you can fulfill the responsibilities that are ahead of you. It all begins with you, so understand that if you don't feel peace, you may not be able to give it to anyone. If you want to quench the thirst of another, the least you need is water. Without water, you cannot quench somebody else's thirst. The water of peace flows within you. I'm not talking about creating something, but about discovering what already exists inside of you.

Just be who you are. Carry out your noble causes. Be the knights, but wear the armor well so you can succeed in your noble cause to be all that you really, really want to be. No limits. Success has nothing to do with age. Success has nothing to do with accomplishments. Success is to feel alive every moment in your life. Not just to carry a backpack of responsibility, but also to savor the freedom, the peace, and the understanding of this life every single day."

***********

"Personal peace is very possible because it has nothing to do with struggles on the outside. It is time to rethink what it means to be alive. It is time to think about the gift we have been given. All the citizens of this earth need hope. Future generations need hope. Peace has become a hollow word that people say but don't mean because nobody knows how to go about it. The clue lies in knowing yourself, knowing who you are. Wherever you go, you carry the well of peace with you. You have to know how to turn within. There is a beautiful possibility. This is what my message is."

**********

"When we feel content, when we feel good inside, we become kind. Nobody has to tell us."

10 second meditation....

2009-03-23T07:56:00.005+11:00

Stop...

Put your feet flat on the ground...imagine that they are planted there with roots growing into the earth.

Take a deep breath and and as you breath out, imagine your breath going down through your feet....

When you inhale, imagine your energy going up through your strong legs, up your spine...as you exhale, send the energy of your breath out through the crown of your head, up as high as you can imagine.

As you inhale again, bring light back down through your crown, filling your entire body.

Take another deep breath and feel calmness within your mind, body and spirit.

Continue with your day.

Release

2009-03-19T04:31:00.006+11:00

Is there something causing you stress at the moment? A pile of paperwork? Kids not getting along? Drama at work? Whatever it is.....

Just for a moment, pretend that whatever the source of your stress is.....doesn't matter at all. Go on, really try it. ...it just doesn't matter. Take a few deep breaths and as you exhale, release your attachment to the stress.

Do it again, go deeper...believe it.

If you can release your attachment to stress, it will not be stress anymore, but it will be just some 'thing' that you will deal with. Just as you would if you were hiking and got a little pebble in your shoe. You can either keep walking and feel the discomfort that comes with having an irritating wedge digging into your foot. Getting annoyed at the pebble for getting into your shoe. Or you can stop, take a moment for your self and remove the pebble. Releasing that irritation. It doesn't mean that there won't be more pebbles in your shoe - the trail is covered in them. The potential for another pebble in your shoe is high. But it's how you react to that. Do you want to enjoy the hike? Possible irritations are there, but do you choose to let that spoil the beauty that surrounds you?

When you feel detachment from the challenges in your life, you will be able to travel through them with much more effectiveness, calmness and peace.

Peace Is Possible...quotes by Maharaji (Prem Rawat) pt3

2009-03-08T08:39:00.001+11:00

"The absence of war, is not peace. It is people - it is us who start the wars. When differences become so great, and intolerance reaches epic proportions, wars will happen. When I fail to see another being as I see myself, wars will happen. When the causes and reasons become greater than the sanctity of peace, wars will happen. When I fail to realize the value of being alive, wars will happen. And whenever war begins outside, it will have begun on the inside first. And the war on the inside is far more dangerous because it is a fire that may never be quenched. It can rage on, and on, and on, and on. In the battle outside, at least you will hear a noise, but in the battle inside, you may not hear a peep. The battle outside may have strategies; the battle inside may be just going on with nobody even negotiating. This is your time on the face of this earth. This is your opportunity to be alive.

When peace begins within me and has taken hold of me, when I have allowed it to blossom, then peace is also possible for me on the outside. Then peace is possible for me because I have felt it.

Peace isn't about words. It is about feeling. For a thirsty person, saying 'water, water, water, water' will not quench their thirst. They need (to drink) water. And not only do they need water, they actually need to feel that their thirst has been quenched before they can say 'Ah. That feels good. Thank you' We have forgotten that simplicity.

The search for peace is not a quest of this millennium, or the next, or the next. For as long as there have been people on the face of this earth, the one thing they have all admired is peace. They have gone to great lengths to have peace in their lives. And peace comes when you can begin to look within. Peace comes when you can begin to appreciate this existence."

Peace Is Possible...quotes by Maharaji (Prem Rawat) pt 2

2009-02-28T14:12:00.000+11:00

"There is a lot of chaos in this world, but there is also a lot of beauty. There is a lot of ugliness and cruelty in this world, and there is a lot of kindness, and both are coming out. It's just that people latch onto cruelty because they think it's more intriguing than kindness.

Where does your attention go? That's what's important. You've got to keep your sanity. You, by the way, are responsible for that. Nobody else is responsible for your sanity, so don't go off the deep end looking at the bad in this world, because that will drive you insane. If you see the bad, also see the good. And hopefully, someday, you will become the lover of the good and you will reject the bad. On that day, you will live in a different world."

**********

"Every day that you wake up, something within you yearns to be fulfilled, to be happy, to be in joy. If the thirst for peace is within you, then the peace is within you. And finding that peace is what drives us, like an engine that runs the world."

**********

"The world has told you many things, that you need this, you need that. I don't say that you need this or that. What you need is within you. If that thing is in your life, whether you are poor or rich, educated or uneducated, you can make you life successful. You came empty-handed, but you do not need to go empty-handed. You cannot take food with you, but you can take that joy with you. Every human being should have peace in his or her life. This is important because our heart says that it is important. Without peace, we will keep roaming. however much money we make, we will remain poor until our heart is fulfilled."

Peace Is Possible...quotes by Maharaji (Prem Rawat)

2009-02-23T19:45:00.005+11:00

"Human beings who look for a miracle have forgotten what miracle has already occurred: they breathe."

**********

"Within you comes this incredible gift of life with every breath. It touches you, and you go on for another moment, and another, and another. Don't forget that it is but a drop, and a drop, and a drop that accounts for the mighty river. Your life comes one moment at a time. Be ready. Be ready to welcome it. Be ready to say 'Come'. And when you can be in that place, perhaps someday, you'll be able to say, 'Thank you for coming. Thank you for this existence. Thank you for this moment."

**********

"We do so much to fulfill ourselves on the outside. We create massive institutions as we seek to expand our outer horizons, yet we overlook our inner horizons. It's perfectly fine to learn about the world, but we must also learn about the heart because true peace is not found outside. Within the heart of every human being lies the possibility of being fulfilled and discovering what is real in life."

Balance

2009-02-10T06:36:00.006+11:00

Balance is when there is harmony within mind, body and spirit - each one and as a unit.

I am getting much better at recognising the early stages of imbalance in my life. I can get in touch with minor irritations that I used to dwell on for days, stewing them into something more than what was necessary. It has taken time, a path of growth and mostly remembering to come back into this moment regularly.

It's so easy to have our minds in the past - "what if I had chosen a different house/mate/job/path?", "why did I say that instead of this other thing?", etc.. - or, to have our minds in the future - "when I win the lottery / find my perfect mate / get a new car / lose 20 pounds / then I'll be able to do the things I want / be happy".. etc.

There is certainly some value in examining things that have happened if we do so from a perspective of learning from them. To do that, we need to look at those things with a sense of detachment, as if we were watching a movie. We can see how we've created certain circumstances in our lives by our past behaviours and attitudes. If that's been working for us, that is, if that has been bringing us harmony in our minds, then keep going. If not, look at the areas that need changing.

Spending too much time thinking about the future can take us away from the joy of this present moment. It is good to plan for the future and to have goals, I am not denying that at all. It's when we get so caught up in doing so that we forget that this one moment, right here, right now, is the only thing that is real. When we get so caught up in planning and pondering what is going to happen, what we need to do, what has to happen in order for us to get everything done so that in two months time we can have a day off and go somewhere special or whatever a short-term goal may be. But what if you plans get changed due to weather or someone changing their mind or some other disruption? Even more to think about and plan for.

Breathe. Listen to the sounds around you. Take a moment and look out your window. Enjoy this moment... this one moment. How do you feel? Take another deep breath. Allow peace to fill you and ground you here.

Our bodies can get out of balance when they have not had enough sleep, exercise or good nutrition. When you start to feel agitated, take your thoughts within and get in touch with the signals that your body is telling you. How long is it since you had a really good nights sleep? Have you done some kind of exercise recently? It is fantastic for releasing pent-up emotions and getting fresh energy moving through you. It doesn't have to be hard or sweaty or painful. Do something that you love - walk along the beach, ride your bike along a mountain track, dance in your living room, take your kids or grandkids to the playground and play on the equipment with them, do some yoga or tai chi, swim, skip, hop...just move your body! Be aware of what you are eating and how it affects your body. Take your time to eat slowly and enjoy your food. And when you feel tired, rest.

Our connection to Spirit starts with our connection to ourselves. When we can show love and gentleness and respect to ourselves, that is us connecting to the Spirit within and that flows over into our interactions with everyone else we encounter during the day.

To find our balance, our inner Peace, it requires awareness. When you feel a little irritation popping up, notice it, figure out where it's coming from. Is your mind swirling with too many to-do lists? Is your body feeling heavy from eating foods that don't suit you? Have you been kind in your self-talk? So many other possibilities of where that irritation may stem from. If you're just not sure, quiet your mind and ask yourself "why am I feeling like this?". If the answer comes back "I don't know", ask "well if you did know, what would you say?". Don't try to force an answer, just remain quiet and Trust that the right answer will come to you.

Having balance, finding and maintaining Peace is possible. It starts with you. In this moment. Such joyful potential. What a gift this breath is...it's giving you life! Thank you...

Life Gives us what we ask of it..

2009-02-03T16:13:00.002+11:00

People who know what they want to do, generally spend much of their time doing it. And those that don't really know what they want, spend much of their time in the service of someone else's dream.

Freedom and responsibility go hand in hand. If you blame others for the circumstances of your life, you give them power over you. You can never be free as long as you make other people responsible for your life.

Only when you accept the responsibility of guiding your own life, can you truly be free to live abundantly.

the Peace road

2009-01-31T05:54:00.001+11:00

"There is no road to Peace...Peace IS the road." - Ghandi

It's all about you!

2009-01-04T13:20:00.002+11:00

The path we walk is lined with the lessons we need for our individual evolution.

With those lessons comes teachers whether they be in the form of experience with other people, places or things, something we read or hear, etc. All valuable contributors to gaining wisdom.

None of those other teachers can live your life for you. Ultimately, it is up to you. Only you can decide your own direction. Others may guide or try to persuade you. But this is YOUR journey and you are the only one you will have with you for the entirety of it.

So it's time for you to get in touch with your own wisdom. And you absolutely have plenty of it. All that you need is within you and the answers you seek, you will find.

Meditation is an ideal way to access your wisdom. Whether you have 5 minutes or 5 hours, try to find some time every day to get in touch with your self.

Being a full time mama, I've often found this hard so I've learned to imagine myself as the eye of the storm that is often around me with three active children. Breathing deeply is an excellent way to calm yourself and slow down your mind, especially when you focus on each breath. It gets me through the day more calmly until I can get a little bit of time to myself, whether it's in the bath or being in nature while the kids build a fairy house or play together while I can take a step back and go within. Sometimes I meditate for a little while before sleep or when I wake up.

Time can be found. Things can wait...the washing, paperwork etc. Find time for you, access your wisdom and you will find guidance relevant to you right now.

detachment

2008-12-11T11:00:00.008+11:00

I haven't posted here for a while. My journey has been interesting and I feel a whole new dimension within me recently. My attachment to material things has decreased. This hasn't happened all at once, but has been a process of several years. I am now aiming to find a way to live in a house with three young children with books and toys and papers and pencils and general 'stuff' strewed about. My inner self has wanted to purge it all, but I recognise that my children need some of this for their own development.

In order to live in harmony in this situation, I have found it helpful to remain detached from the 'stuff'. In this way, it does not bother me. We do keep any stray bits 'n pieces fairly tidy and the kids are free to get their rooms as messy as they want. I have also cut back on the amount of my own clutter.

I used to surround myself with posters, signs I'd made, stickers, badges, many things that had positive messages on them. Perhaps after the constant exposure, I've finally absorbed most of those messages. Or perhaps I've reached a place where I'm living my own truth. Either way, I no longer feel the need for many different affirmations, positive signs, etc around me. Perhaps without all of that clutter, my soul has more space and freedom to just Be.

I've had the same wallet for 20 years. My mother was with me when I bought it and thought I was nuts spending $80 on a wallet. But here, 20 years later, after using it continually, it's still going strong. A little stitching is coming undone in an area that my youngest son used to chew on when he was teething. My mother has had at least 5 different wallets in that time.
Using that wallet, I've gotten used to all of the stuff in it. But do I need all of that? Recently, I've started going out with a little cloth purse with just my drivers licence and a little cash in it. No extra stuff. Do I really need to take the video rental cards every time I go out? No. Library cards can be taken only if we're going to the library. I don't need to take my whole little card filing space every single time I go out.
It actually felt a little uncomfortable the first couple of times I did this, but now I'm enjoying the freedom.

Same thing with my handbag. My youngest has been out of diapers/nappies for almost 2 years so I can't justify having a big bag with me for all of those extra kid things anymore. I've been using a simple cloth shoulder bag with just the basics in it. Got to tell you, it's much lighter! Physically and mentally and spiritually.

What I've learned is that detachment from material things, brings us closer to being able to live and express our true essence. I feel a much deeper sense of peace and therefore, I see joy in simple and wonder-full things which expands my love towards all.

It's all good.

Quote by Ramona L Anderson

2007-04-17T07:48:00.000+10:00

People spend a lifetime searching for happiness;
looking for peace.
They chase idle dreams, addictions, religions,
even other people,
hoping to fill the emptiness that plagues them.
The irony is the only place they ever needed to search was within.

Ramona L. Anderson 1887-1949
American writer

Quote by Albert Schweitzer

2007-04-03T03:15:00.000+10:00

However much I am at the mercy of the world,

I never let myself get lost

by brooding over its misery.

I hold firmly to the thought

that each one of us can do a little

to bring some portion of that misery

to an end.

Albert Schweitzer, 1875-1965

Alsation-born musician and medical missionary

Quote by Thich Nhat Hanh

2007-03-26T18:57:00.000+10:00

Peace is based on a respect for life,
the spirit of reverence for life.
Not only do we have to respect
the lives of human beings,
but we have to respect the lives of animals,
vegetables and minerals.
Rocks can be alive.
A rock can be destroyed.
The Earth also,
The way we farm,
the way we deal with our garbage,
all these things are related to each other.

~ Thich Nhat Hanh...Vietnames Buddist monk, poet and peace activist

Be

2007-03-21T03:22:00.000+11:00

Take some time today during your busy-ness to be in the moment. Stop thinking about what you have to still do, and Be Here Now.

Notice how your body feels, do you have any aches you have been ignoring? How is your posture? Are you standing / sitting / walking with your feet flat and firmly on the ground? What can you smell? What can you hear right now? When you look around the room or out your window, look without judgement. Don't focus on that pile of ironing sitting there waiting to be done, or the lawn that needs to be mowed, just gently look around and see what is there for you in this moment.

Take a few deep breaths and really experience those breaths.

When you get back to your busy life, you will feel more relaxed and peaceful. Try doing this several times a day, especially when the stress is starting to build.

Namaste

Abundance

2007-02-24T05:28:00.000+11:00

A lot of marketing companies seem to delight in promoting a "lack mentality". They use fear tactics like "hurry, buy now" (as if you don't there will be none left - anywhere, ever again). Marketing can be aimed at making you think if you don't buy or use a certain product, you will not be attractive or successful. Not true. I think people become smarter by being able to see or read an advertisement, see the attempt at manipulation and not get caught up in it. Really look at the ad and if you see genuine value in something, for the fact that it will help reduce waste in the world or make your own home or self more beautiful or happy or less complicated. Whatever your reason, explore it and know your purchase will improve your life in some way. It is when people get 'sucked in' to buying something that just clutters their home or life that we know we've fallen prey to those clever marketers again.

When you come to the knowing that Everything you need will be provided, you start to look at things in a new way. Whatever lessons you need to learn in this life will come to you in whatever form you are ready to receive them. If you have a "lack" mentality, that may be reflected in your surroundings.

We recently took a drive around a very rich area where every home had their own private jetty with a huge boat docked. The houses were enormous. I just wondered how happy all those people were. There were thousands of houses there which showed me that there is an abundance of money in the world. In order for me to tap into some more of that, I need to rethink my own beliefs about money. You've probably heard "money is the root of all evil". Well it's not. It's when the love of money becomes more important than people that there is a problem.

But abundance is about more than money, it's a mindset that allows you to co-create your life. It's acceptance of where you are now (don't live in the past), a belief in a Higher Power and a clear picture of what you want. Once you are clear with a particular goal or goals, visualise them, affirm them, thank that Higher Power for bringing them into your life (even if they are not there yet) and while you are waiting for them to manifest, just be a good person. Treat others how you want to be treated, from your own children to rude shopkeepers you may meet.

You can also look at all of the good things in your life right now and be grateful for those. You'll probably see that your life is already filled with Abundance. The more you show Gratitude and treat others with Respect, the more Abundance will flow into your life.

Ask

2007-02-09T03:22:00.000+11:00

What do you want in this life? So many people have a vague idea of this or have never really thought about all of the things they could have if they really believed they could have them.

Governments, the media and society in general seem to have an agreement to keep the public "dumbed down" in order to maintain control over them. A lot of schools no longer encourage children to excel, but to just scrape by. How can anyone believe they can achieve all of their goals if they are constantly conditioned to lies such as they aren't smart/rich/good-looking/healthy enough to achieve those goals?

It is very liberating to break free of past conditioning. To realise you are good enough in every way and worthy of achieving all of your goals, whether it's inner peace, a new car, a soul mate, or excellent health and vitality. The first step in this process is to get very clear about what it is you want. By doing this, you are asking the Universe for assistance in manifesting those things.

Mind you, if you focus on things that you don't want, you'll end up manifesting those too. Your subconscious mind does not understand 'do' or 'don't'. It understands the focus of where that do or don't is directed. "I don't want any more of these bills", "why does my car keep breaking down?", "I don't want to have to deal with that person any more." It's like a snowball rolling downhill, and those things keep coming into your life, picking up speed, getting bigger. The trick to get out of this funk is to turn it around and to focus on what it is that you DO want. Use affirmations and visualisation to see those things in the present and aim to bring yourself into alignment with them so that you are ready to receive them when they are presented to you.

The next time you notice yourself focusing on the negative side of a situation, turn it around and word it in the positive. Notice how it brings you more peace, and clarity will come very soon after.

Awareness

2007-01-29T08:33:00.000+11:00

How are you sitting right now? Is your back strong and straight or hunched over? Are your feet flat on the floor or footrest or turned outwards? Are you breathing deeply and evenly or shallowly?

Take time today to be aware of what is happening with your body. Take time to stand straight. Notice how you feel when you change from slouching to shoulders back. Stand with your feet flat on the floor rather than curling away so that you can connect with the earth more fully. When you go to sleep, do you clench your fists or relax them open?

Be aware of any tension spots within your body and allow them to relax. Think of your body as a garden hose. If it has a kink in it, the water will not flow through easily. It is the same with your body, spots of tension will not let your love and light and peace flow through easily.

Be aware, let go of tension, be peace.

Applaud Yourself

2007-01-25T07:45:00.000+11:00

So many of us focus on the things we have to do to make us a "better" person. The self-help section in bookstores and libraries has grown into one of the most popular departments. There is no doubt that personal development is on a lot of peoples minds. I'm always hearing about new books, audio programs, CD's, workshops, internet courses etc, along these lines. I am impressed with all of the information available.

But I want you to know that your most important teacher is within yourself. Don't give your power away to follow what other people claim you must do in order to be "better". Certainly listen to others, take what works for you, but don't be afraid to say "no" to the bits you don't like or want. Just because someone may have published a book, or been on tv, does not make them better than you.

Today, think of all of the things that you do that are great. Is it the way you cook or play with your kids or do your job or help your neighbour or feed the wild birds or patiently tie your child's shoe for the 97th time or the fact that you take time to appreciate simple pleasures throughout your day?

Instead of thinking of the things you want to work on within yourself, applaud yourself for being the best person you can be right here right now.

Releasing Attachment

2007-01-19T07:53:00.000+11:00

One of the keys to simplify your life is to release attachment to material possessions that you just don't need or want anymore. By uncluttering your physical environment, you can unclutter your mind.

Let's take that a step further to unclutter your mental environment which can lighten your Spiritual Self. It's a similar idea, just not as easy to "see". It requires thought about the way you think. It is easy to get stuck in familiar habits of relating to others and ourselves, just as it is easy to accumulate material possessions that become a part of our environment to the extent that we don't even notice them anymore. Being stuck in a mental habit that does not serve our highest good, actually blocks the flow of harmony in our lives.

Feelings of disharmony may manifest themselves in many ways from little irritations to depression, overeating and other unhealthy habits, among other things. It can be very hard to release yourself from these. First it takes recognition that something is not right, and the desire to change must come from a knowing that there must be a better way. It becomes more painful to live with those things than to change.

We can make major shifts within our minds. Often the shift comes when we move from thinking with fear to thinking with love.

Recently I was having a challenge with my husband when he was talking about moving. We just had a major move 4 months ago and I was concerned about so many of the details of moving again so soon. I was afraid of how my daughter would react, what my family would say, the physical hassle of moving. Basically, I had a fear of the unknown. I became stuck in these thoughts, going around and around and creating a wedge between my husband and I. The kids and I went down to the creek, with me feeling a bit cranky thinking about things that hadn't even happened. I wallowed in this feeling for a while. After playing half-heartedly for a while, I just lay on my belly in one of the warm shallow pools. I was playing with the sand and watching it drift slowly out of my hands and run through my fingers. I saw a little sand crab digging and wondered about it and it's life. Somehow getting outside of myself allowed me to see the situation more clearly. I released the attachment I was feeling and asked for help to see it in a new way. I asked myself "what would love do now?" and remained open for guidance. It didn't come straight away, but the act of opening myself had me open to it when it came. It was later that night, when the house was quiet. I was able to talk calmly to him about my concerns. In that conversation, we became clearer about our vision and goals and the wedge was removed.

For me to release the attachment to this situation, I needed to:
1. Recognise that there was a problem. (I was cranky and detached from my family.)
2. Recognise where the problem was. (My fear about moving.)
3. Mentally step away from the situation. (Watching the sand and the crab.)
4. Knowing that I wanted to handle this differently.
5. Asking for guidance in seeing this situation with love.
6. Remaining open.

I am grateful for being able to make the shift. As I practice this more often - releasing my attachment to a situation that was not serving me well and shifting my thinking to operate from love instead of fear - it will become easier. Already I am feeling lighter and more connected to my true Self.

"Breathe Deep...Seek Peace" - from the movie Dinotopia

Affirmations

2007-01-12T21:01:00.000+11:00

Affirmations are often overlooked as being "too easy - they can't possibly work". If that's what you think, then you're right. And wrong. Yes, they are easy, but they can work. The trick is to "fake it until you make it".

Affirmations involve repeating positive phrases to yourself, either silently, or aloud, frequently throughout the day. Just after you wake up and just before you go to sleep are powerful times to do this, as well as throughout the day - especially when you are facing a challenging situation. (This happened to me this weekend. I was having a conversation with someone close to me who was very upset and was starting to verbally attack me. I have a long history with this person and I knew that this was not their true nature. Instead of going into my past habit of getting defensive, I said to myself "I communicate clearly and with love". This mantra played in my head while the person spoke a little longer. Their pain became clear to me and I realised that I was not the source of that pain. I was able to comfort that person while stating clearly my position and we both felt good.)

The phrase needs to be something you want to work on to improve your life, and it must be stated in the positive and the present. Examples:

"I am full of peace."
"I am healed, whole and healthy."
"Money comes to me effortlessly."
"Love fills my life and is guiding me now."

Even if you don't feel these things, keep saying them. These statements will work on your subconscious to bring the changes into your everyday life effortlessly. You may notice subtle shifts in your attitude, or major changes in other areas. Whatever it is that you need, will be provided, in fact, that is one of my favourite affirmations:

"All that I need, will be provided."

This helps me to relax, let go and let God/Spirit/Source/whatever you prefer to call the Force that guides us all (I prefer "God" - in a spiritual sense, not a religious one), show me the way. It's been very powerful for me and helped me to deepen my Faith and connection to God as I have been provided me with some very interesting, challenging and wonderful lessons and detours on my Path.

One example of when I used affirmations was during my third pregnancy. My first labour had been 22 hours, my second was 13 hours. I wanted a much shorter labour the third time around! In the last half of that third pregnancy, I increased the use of affirmations like:
"When my baby is ready, he is born quickly and healthfully and peacefully."
He was born in under 5 hours! A beautiful birth and a beautiful baby boy.

Ooh - I'm so excited about this new bit... We share our area with sandflies and some other biting bugs. As I don't like to put chemicals on my skin, I usually use light, long-sleeved shirts and long pants to prevent bites if I'm out at a time when the bugs would be biting. (Low tide when the air is still.) The weather was so nice last week and I just forgot to cover up when I went outside to hang out washing early in the morning. So I paid for it in the form of some itchy bites. These were really bugging me last night and I got up and put some diluted tea-tree oil on them. When I went back to bed, they still seemed to be itchy so I started saying "I have smooth, soft skin" over and over. It helped a bit, but then I changed it to "Thank You for my smooth soft skin." By the second affirmation, the itchy had completely stopped. Wow! I was blown away. Adding gratitude to my affirmation made them even more effective.

Affirmations can work, I believe that, and I have had them work for me on many other occasions. If we can use them to see ourselves as the Peace that creates the Peace Ripples, imagine the effect we can have on the world!

let Peace begin with me

2007-01-03T17:12:00.000+11:00

How can there be peace in the world if there is not peace within ourselves?

Surely nations of peaceful people would find alternative methods of dealing with conflicts than with guns and violence.

Inner Peace is not something that comes overnight. It can take many years - even a lifetime - to achieve.

In todays crazy world, maintaining inner peace is a very challenging thing to do. Sometimes it can even feel like the steps that can lead us there have to be scheduled and crammed into already busy lives. Like we really need more things we have to do, right? But doing these things will help especially if you can just let go of everything else you need to do afterwards, and enjoy the moment. Let go of any guilt you may feel for taking the time out. Go and get a massage, or a facial or go to a yoga class, or take a little time to go and walk in a beautiful place - a beach, a nice park, whatever you have in your area.

The more moments of peace you can find, the more you be able to draw on those when challenges are coming your way. Don't let your Peace Well dry up. Take a deep breath and let go of the stress in your head...take another deep breath and let go of the stress in your neck and shoulders...take another deep breath and let go of the stress in your arms and hands...keep going through your torso, butt, thighs, calves and feet.

The more peaceful people in the world, the happier this world will be. Let it start with you. Be a pebble of peace you throw into the pool of humanity and see how your Peace affects others.

Are You Listening?

2006-12-17T06:54:00.000+11:00

No, really, ...are you listening?

Are you so busy you don't really hear what other people are really saying? Do you just tolerate their words until you can jump in and talk? Some people can't even wait and will start talking over the top of someone else. How does that make them feel?

Try slowing down your thoughts today. Really listen when someone talks to you. Ask them questions to understand what they are saying. Things like "How did that make you feel?", "What would you like to have happen?". Put your own need to be heard aside for a few minutes to connect deeper with others.

Listen to yourself too. Not your mind and the hundreds of racing thoughts of things you have to do or should have done. Listen with your heart to the essence of you. Are you comfortable with yourself? Are your own needs being met? Is there anything that needs to change in order for you to feel a deeper connection to your true self? Honour the guidance you receive.

If we all become better at listening to ourselves, we will become better at listening to others. A step towards a more peaceful society.

Start From Now

2006-12-12T20:33:00.000+11:00

Who am I to teach about Peace? Who am I not to? We all teach what we most need to learn. Seeking Peace has been a constant ache in my life.

I was raised in the Catholic religion. My favourite parts of that was, as a young girl, snuggling next to my Dad or mum during Mass on Sundays. They were always so busy during the week that to have them to cuddle for almost an hour was a nice way for me to connect with them. For many reasons, I walked away from organised religion when I was a teenager. But, while I was at Catholic school, I did enjoy hearing stories about some of the Saints. My favourite was always St. Francis. his famous Peace Prayer has woven it's way into my life on so many occasions that it's not a coincidence.

I know I am being called to assist in the movement of the world towards Peace. To Inspire Peace in my own way. To be the stone making a ripple of Peace in this giant pond of Life.

It is time to stop doubting my ability and just start from now. I know I already have in my own quiet way, but it is time to step it up and reach out further, jump onto this world wide web and see how big a ripple I can make. Thank you for reading, I hope I can help you to find calmness in your heart amongst the busy-ness in your life.