Quietly await

30 Sep 2014 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Uncategorized

Isn’t it wonderful how spiritual inspiration can be found unexpectedly, just when you need it most?  Recently I was given a copy of a spiritual journal I had never seen before and inside was an excerpt which began with a beautiful quote by Dennis Merritt Jones:

“In a confrontation between a stream and a rock, the stream always wins because it surrenders to the call of gravity, flowing over, under and around the rock to follow its purpose.”

Funny, I had always thought the rock was the “winner,” standing hard and stubborn within the stream!  But the Guides remind us that as we grow in wisdom we actually become less like rock–unbending and unyielding–and more like water which is ultimately adaptable, the true embodiment of grace.

The article continued with the following thoughts from Rev. Noel McInnis on adaptability and flow, especially in regards to times of change and evolution:

“Be as water is, without friction.  Flow around the edges of those within your path.  Surround within your ever-moving depths those who come to rest there–enfold them, while never for a moment holding on.  Accept whatever distance others are moving within your flow.  Be with them gently as far as they allow, and fill with your own being the remaining space when they are left behind.  When dropping down life’s rapids, froth and bubble into fragments if you must, knowing that the One of you, now many, will just as many times be one again.  

And when you’ve gone as far as you can go, quietly await your next beginning.”

I am absolutely in love with this eloquent advice, although I am the first to admit I do a lot of “frothing and bubbling” when change pops up!  Still, the final goal of a spiritual practitioner is always the same: We yield to life, giving up our petulant fight against what Is and allowing it to carry us into new, undreamed-of possibilities.  If we wish to live a skillful life we will eventually give up the struggle and be as the river flowing to the sea, quietly awaiting our next beginning.  And as always let us not forget to thank God, the Universe or the Guides for always showing us the way!

To read more of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse other selections from our Wisdom category or visit http://www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

Happy Heart Massage

15 Feb 2014 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Try this!

A few  years back I came across a book that has changed my relationship with my body.  It’s a book not found on most  mega-bookstore shelves and it came to me in a box passed along from a friend.  It’s called Breast Health Exposed.

This small volume is a treasure trove of information on breast health, important to both men and women.  It includes simple tips for avoiding cancer-causing agents and enhancing personal wellness.  Short and to the point, this book is well worth the time it takes to order a copy online (see details below).  But the part I want to share with you today is its simple plan for a five-minute, non-invasive lymphatic massage.

Every morning I spend time in quiet contemplation, but since reading this book I also include a lymphatic massage while I sit and wake up with a glass of tea.  Since all humans have lymphatic systems, this massage is important for men and women alike.  My favorite part is that you learn the massage from a short video online.  The healing practitioners are fully clothed and lead you through this practical self massage quickly and easily.  I simply took notes on a post-it which I use as the bookmark for my morning reading materials.

The video is found at http://www.breasthealthrevolution.com.  Click on the “Resources” tab and select “Videos.” The self-exam video will be right there waiting for you to press play…easy.  You can also purchase a copy of the book from the web site, which I highly recommend.  Once you read it, pass it along to a friend!

To encourage more of you to actually practice the massage, I have listed the steps below but it is easier to learn by watching the short video.  You can see what each move means and how to do it right over your clothes.  There is no need to wait until you are in the shower or in bed at night; unlike a BSE lymphatic massage can be done when you’re dressed at any time of day (but please remember to do your BSE regularly, too)!  Here are the simple steps to helping your lymphatic system function at an optimal level:

  1. Pump the fingertips of one hand into the opposite armpit.  Imagine you’re trying to gently scoop out the insides of a melon.  Repeat slowly 5-6 times.
  2. Hold one breast in both hands and gently pull the tissue up and toward the armpit.  Repeat slowly 8-10 times.
  3. Cup one breast with the hand on the same side of the body.  Use the heel of the opposite palm to strip the inner, top breast tissue up toward the collarbone.  Repeat slowly 8-10 times.
  4. Hold the breast on top and bottom and press the entire tissue back against the body, almost like trying to squeeze the water out of a sponge against a flat surface.  Repeat 8-10 times slowly.
  5. Repeat all motions on the other side.

Once you get the hang of these motions, you will be able to easily perform them on a daily basis.  I like to do them during my morning quiet time, while on the exercise bike at home or during my toilette.  Sending your body the loving energies of cleansing, releasing toxins and radiant health–which is your true nature–enhances the process.  Whether you are male or female, all bodies benefit from the loving attention we bring them; they do so much for us, let’s give something back in return!

Happy, healthy Valentine’s month to all!

Unlikely wisdom

30 Jan 2014 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Uncategorized

Today I came across a bit of wisdom from an awesome but rather unlikely source.  It was a reminder that while we can read all the spiritually based inspirational books we want, we should never forget that wisdom can come from unexpected places, too.  This particular author is the kind that others might reject as having an agenda or, worse yet, being unworthy of being heard.  Still, I try to remember the words of Max Ehrmann’s Desiderata which encourages, “Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.”

So with that in mind let us not forget to seize, digest and embody any wisdom found in the unexpected moments of life, be it from the mouths of babes or the minds of the “unenlightened masses.”  I guarantee if I told you the source of the following quote it would tarnish its power in your mind; I’ll leave you to enjoy it in its full glory.  More than that, I hope you’ll pass it on in word and deed:

“Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about.

Be kind.

Always.”

Celebrating another year

21 Dec 2013 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Practicum

December is filled with beautiful opportunities to mark our turning from darkness to Light.  Rituals of lights are performed in Hanukkah, Christmas, Winter Solstice and New Year celebrations, providing us with many chances to honor our personal growth.  Whether you choose to observe them in solitude or in the company of loved ones, ceremonies give us a method for paying tribute to the transformation in our lives.  Here is a simple ritual you can enjoy alone or with others which turns your hearth into a place of ceremonial celebration!

You will need:

A wood-burning hearth or stove (a basket will do if you have neither)

One or more candles, music and aromatherapy to create a blessed atmosphere

Twigs or small sticks

Notepaper and pens

Start by creating a sacred space.  Simply light one or more candles, select some soothing music and fill your space with captivating aromas.  You may wish to use an aromatherapy spray, light some incense or simmer a natural potpourri on the stove by combining water, cinnamon sticks, cloves and a dash of nutmeg.

Gather your group or your own thoughts and select a stick or twig symbolizing something you wish to release from your past year.  It may be a feeling, a painful interaction with someone, an unhealthy personal habit or a phase in your life.  Share aloud what your item symbolizes, imbuing the stick with your deep desire to release old energy.  Then lay your twig in a cold or crackling hearth; if you have no fireplace, simply lay the stick in a basket.  If you are practicing in solitude, allow ample time to share with the Higher Realms everything you wish to release.  If you are in a group, each person can take turns discarding as many symbols as they would like until all feel complete.  Then, if the hearth is cold take a moment to light it, silently watching the refuse of the past year transform into pure Light and Energy.  Items placed in a basket can be ceremoniously scattered in Nature following your ritual.

Once all Releases have been expressed, it is time to affirm your Intentions for the new year.  I recommend from one to three Intentions; any more than four and it is difficult to  remember all the things you are trying to achieve.  This leads to unnecessary guilt and shame when priorities are set but never accomplished.  Have few enough Intentions that you can memorize them quickly and call them to mind repeatedly over the coming year.

Taking a pen and paper (I like sticky notes, which can be immediately posted for inspiration), write down your Intentions.  The more succinct you can be, the easier the Intentions will be to memorize.  For example, bringing more compassion into your relationship with Nathan can be simply written as, “Compassion toward Nathan.”

I encourage my students to select at least one Intention relating to their spiritual practice; make your Journey a priority each year and you will find you grow more quickly.  These might be praying or mediating with more discipline, opening your heart to Divine Guidance regularly or other goals that deepen your Connection to Goodness.  Finally, read your Intentions aloud.  If practicing in a group setting, have each person read just one Intention they feel comfortable sharing with others.

Close your ritual by offering gratitude and asking the Higher Realms to bless your Intentions.  Be sure to save your paper and keep it close for your inspiration.  I like to rewrite my Intentions on two or three sticky-notes, placing one in my office, another in my car and another in my home.  This reminds me to check in with them again and again and not to forget them as the months roll by.  Our Intentions are meant to unfold within us over the entire year, until the next time we are ready to Release what no longer serves and Renew our connection to  Divine Light.

May the coming days of greater sun and Light inspire you to shine each and every day!

Are spells just for Halloween?

13 Oct 2013 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Uncategorized

At this spooky, fun time of year many of us are noticing Halloween decorations all over town.  But what we may not realize is that spells aren’t just for Halloween!  No, I’m not talking about the kinds of candle and pentagram spells used in Magik, but the power our daily words have to create the reality around us.  Someone recently quoted a passage from a book to me:

“Language is spell-casting.“

I love this reminder that everything we say manifests into a very real, physical experience around us.  When we talk about being hurt, depressed or lonely in our relationships we actively attract more of the same to us.  Conversely, when we affirm growing peace, understanding and cooperation in our chaotic workplace, we find those energies slowly manifesting.

This Halloween season, consider what kinds of spells you are casting, and what those energies may be manifesting.  A haunted house?  A frightening encounter?  Or a peaceful meadow…an inspiring ocean view…a silent wood.

To read any of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse the selections from our Wisdom category or visit http://www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

“E-ver-y-thing…”

29 Sep 2013 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Wisdom

I once saw a show on television where Dr. Phil told a couple in crisis, “At any given time, you are either helping or hurting your relationship.  There is never a time when you just coast.”  Yesterday, I saw an ad for toothpaste that claimed every day my teeth are either getting yellower (yikes!) or whiter (enter their miracle product) but never staying the same.

So I guess it was these not-so-holy assertions that primed me to take notice when a spiritual teacher made a similar comment about our daily growth.  My mind had already embraced the possibility that my relationships, like my teeth, needed daily attention.  From there it was a short leap to opening to this powerful but simple statement made in Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch.

“Everything you think, say and do declares, ‘This is who I am.’ “

I have long believed that the spiritual Path is one of ultimate responsibility; that we alone create our reality and manifest the growth that comes from our reaction to the world around us.  But the concept that each and every idea, word and action constitutes who I am today calls me to a whole new level of responsibility.  If that’s the case there is no in-between, no hedging, no gray area.  With everything in me I am daily choosing to assert, “This is who I am.”

So who do I want to be today?

 

To read more of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse other selections from our Wisdom category or visit http://www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

“You, yourself…”

01 Sep 2013 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Wisdom

Ever felt like you are sparring with life?  Ever find yourself trying to move through your day in a conscious way only to receive an “unexpected” blow to your sense of peace, joy or vitality?  In those moments it is easy to begin to live in a reactionary way, to become cynical and feel victimized by your own life.  Recently I asked the Guides about some challenges in my daily experiences and here is what They shared with me…

“Understand that if you cease to fight life you are working in tandem with your own best-laid plan, designed by your very own wise soul to help you become your most radiant and joyful self.  You, yourself plotted the course.  You, yourself prepared the way that would most efficiently lead you to the outcome of radiance and illumination.

Just like a child can see a harmless shadow and imagine it to be a ferocious monster so, too, can you see your life as your adversary.   And the more you fight it, the more you find yourself in bondage to experiences which you would not desire.  But the wise one knows to open to that which lies before her, to find in it the lessons that were meant to be found…lessons scripted by you for you…like points on a treasure map leading the way to the great reunification with the Divine.”

To read more of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse other selections from our Wisdom category or visit http://www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

“A High Price…”

25 Jun 2013 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Wisdom

One of the most discussed aspects of spiritual practice is how much to engage the “outer world” in daily life. Some philosophies teach that living in a rarefied environment like an abbey or ashram is the best choice for spiritual growth. Others espouse the idea of embracing the daily world fully and just devoting a certain period of time each week for spiritual practice. Recently I asked the Guides about this balancing act and here is what They shared with me…

“Confusion has arisen through the misunderstandings of eons of those who believe that what IS, here and now, should be rejected. What IS here and now is to be embraced, for it is the very reason you have come (to this physical existence).

“It does not take a person of great intellect to realize that if they put hard-earned money into their wallet, get into a car, drive across the city to a store, park the car, walk in the store…it does not take great intellect to realize that they are there to buy something and that they should then do so, thereby fulfilling their intent.

“To come into physical form and to reject (meaning to cast judgment upon as being unworthy) the physical and emotional aspects would be to make all of the costly preparations of entering into that experience void. It would be like saving up money, preparing to go to the store, taking the trouble to drive through the traffic only to arrive and stand in the middle of the store and just stand there. It makes no sense.

“Would it not be wiser to go into the store and to delight in all of the things, knowing that one chose to be there, that this is the just reward for the money saved? Knowing that this is the culmination of the many layers of preparation and delighting in the fact that this is that very culmination? There is beauty to be had in that.

“It is true, it is not of great value to go into the store and blindly, unconsciously shop. It should be a conscious act. Those times when you unconsciously engage in the physical or mental are not the Highest. You may be living and feeling, but are you conscious of it? Not often.

“So the answer, as usual, lies between the two: Are you there to enjoy the physical, emotional and mental realities? Yes. Could you be more conscious about it? Yes. So pause before an enjoyable act and affirm your consciousness of it.

“Before ingesting a meal pause and say, ‘I paid a high price for this body, and in this food I will take delight.’ Before physical activity such as hiking, ‘I paid a high price for this body and in this experience I will take delight.’ With companions, ‘I paid a high price for this body and in this conversation with another I will delight.’ At work, ‘I paid a high price for this body and in this job I HAVE CHOSEN I will delight.’

“It is best that there be a greater consciousness in what you do, for you paid a high price for that incarnation and in it you should delight!”

To read more of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse other selections from our Wisdom category or visit http://www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

“The State of the Heart and Mind”

23 Dec 2012 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Wisdom

As we move toward the blessing of another year, we hear people everywhere talking about New Year’s Resolutions and goals.  The intimation is that if we just focus on something really hard it can come to pass, that if we just want it enough it can be our reality.  But the Guides remind us that there is another component that determines our reality.

Contrary to what we may have been taught, the Guides tell us that this component is not the higher will of a judging God or the whim of a deity whose favor can be bought.  The often-overlooked component that determines our reality is the inner condition of our own hearts and minds.  The Angels tell us:

“Your mental state influences choice and choice determines action and action is what influences your reality.  Action, if you trace it back, begins not with thought but before that–with the state of the heart and mind.  Your reality begins with the belief that you are unworthy, that you are separate from others or the Divine, that you are lacking and someone needs to save you from lack, that you are a victim and that reparations must to be made.  As long as these inner conditions exist, the thoughts based on them will continue to thrive and the actions based on those thoughts will continue to form a certain kind of reality, regardless of what you think you may want to the contrary.”

These words remind us that if we wish to be a kinder person, for example, our work starts not with simply saying kind things to others, but with reconciling our own self-condemnation.  If we want to lose weight our work begins not with the counting of calories, but at the moment when we first wake in the morning and tell ourselves we are powerless or flawed.

Whatever it is you wish to achieve this year, you absolutely have the ability to make it your reality.  But make no mistake: The creation of our future lies not in the actions, or even the thoughts, we harbor within.  Our future lies within the private recesses of our beliefs about who we are and whether or not we are worthy of creating, possessing and enjoying the life of our dreams.

 

To read more of the Angels’ Words of Wisdom, please peruse other selections from our Wisdom category or visit www.hopeofthenewage.com/Wisdom

Honoring Another Year

09 Dec 2012 Leave a comment

by graceandclarity in Practicum

Some ancient civilizations tell us that this year’s solstice and new year celebration will be unlike any other.  2012 has been touted as a year of unprecedented Light and opportunity for change.

Regardless of how you feel about such things, one thing is the same this year as every other: We have the opportunity to honor another blessed year of life and set intentions about what we want to create in the days to come!  Whether you choose to do so in private or in the presence of loved ones is up to you; whether you plan to howl at the moon on the solstice or kiss someone over champagne on NY Eve, make time to celebrate the past twelve months and get excited about the dawning of another year!

Here are a few simple suggestions to help you focus on what this special time of year can offer you.  If you would like live, personal support in creating a unique ritual all your own, you can contact us at hopeofthenewage@msn.com and ask about our Release and Renewal Consultations.  There is also a post in our archives here entitled “Release and Renew” from December, 2011.

  • Set aside some quiet time and create a sacred space.  Simply light one or more candles, select some soothing music or fill your room with captivating aromas.  Include items that are lovely or meaningful to you if you desire a more elaborate ritual feeling.
  • Release the old.  Quiet your mind and contemplate some things from 2011 you wish to release.  As you get clear on each thing state it aloud, asking the Divine to help dissolve it into Light and bless the wisdom each experience provided (whether known or unknown to you).  You may have five things to release or one hundred; there is no limit to how much you can release!
  • Contemplate your Intentions for the new year.  I recommend from one to three Intentions; have few enough Intentions that you can memorize them quickly and call them to mind repeatedly over the coming year.
  • Taking a pen and paper write down your Intentions.  The more succinct you can be, the easier the Intentions will be to memorize.  For example, bringing more joy into your relationship with Bernadette can be simply written as, “Joy with Bernadette.”
  • Set at least one spiritual Intention.  Make your Journey a priority each year and you will find you grow more quickly!  These might include things like seeing others as aspects of the Divine, opening your heart to Divine Guidance regularly or other goals that deepen your connection to Goodness.
  • Read your Intentions aloud.  Ask the Divine to create them into reality even now, before you manifest them into physical form.  This is like visualizing a picture before you draw it.  Then it’s just a matter of allowing your life to flow along the pattern your intentions have set!

Close your ritual by offering gratitude and asking the Higher Realms to bless your Intentions.  Be sure to save your paper and keep it close for your reference.  I like to rewrite my Intentions on two or three sticky-notes, placing one in my office, another in my car and another in my home.  This reminds me to check in with them again and again and not to forget them as the months roll by.

Our Intentions are meant to unfold within us over the entire year, so get excited about what you can create in the months to come.  As an old fortune cookie I received once said, “If you can shape it in your mind, you will find it in your life.”

Blessings as you create more Light around you in 2013!

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