Emotional Guidance System

Recently I have pondered the role of deep sadness, grief and anger, as it relates to our emotional guidance system.

The "negative" emotions are not to be ignored, nor are they to be wallowed in. So what does one do when feeling such intense feelings that indicate we are not going in the right direction, or that we are resisting our connection to Source?

I realized today that those feelings are a perfect way to demonstrate contrast. They are also a tool to assist us in our growth, our movement to the things we actually want to occur in our lives.

Trying to shove down or ignore those feelings is not the way to move towards what we want. It is important to distinguish between feeling good or joyful and avoiding feeling bad.

It is okay to feel bad. That is human. Be open to why you are feeling bad and allow that to direct you to the feeling good place. And be gentle with yourself while you are doing this.

Sometimes we have things from our past, including our childhood, that we are still working on. If we didn't resolve them then, they will keep coming up. So listen, discern, and discover the reason behind the feelings. This will allow you to keep growing in a positive way and finally break the circle of negativity in your life.

Esther and Jerry Hicks, the Teachings of Abraham

If you've seen the original version of The Secret then you are familiar with Esther Hicks. The 2nd release does not have Esther and the Teachings of Abraham in it, so if you are not familiar with them, be sure to seek these works out.

The Teachings of Abraham are a great supplement to The Secret and the SGR program. They reinforce the Law of Attraction and that it is possible to have whatever you truly want in this world.

Personally I like to rotate through my teachers. I read (or listen to) each one several times. Each time I read it, I get something additional from the experience. Then, after a few readings, if I notice my attention wandering because I think I "know" the material, I change to a different teacher. They all complement each other well and it keeps my brain from getting too complacent!

Most of these materials are available both in book and audio formats, so choose the one that works best for you. I have both because I find I get the most out of it when I listen and read at the same time. My current reading/listening material is Ask and It is Given. Very powerful. I highly recommend it.

Do What Brings You Joy

I noticed this week is that by changing my routines slightly, so that I really enjoy them, the activity seems to take less time and effort--and yet yields even greater results.

My short workouts were seeming to take a very long time and I was enduring them. My mind was wandering everywhere but on what my body was doing. Intellectually I knew that with focused attention anything we do is more productive. So how could I achieve focused attention, without it being forced?

I shifted the timing of my workout. I started watching The Secret again, a couple chapters every day. This gets me into a positive space and energy. Then I work out. What seemed like a drag last week has this week given me an even greater rush! The time flies by, I actually am having FUN doing it and I feel the results in my body!

Following the guidance to do things that bring me joy (in this case watching The Secret) has helped my pool of joy overflow to other areas, coloring those pools joyful as well.

Changing My Attitude to Success

I weighed myself today and at first got caught up in the "I only lost" trap. I quickly was able to stop that thought and remembered that I'm not dieting, I am changing my way of life and gaining health, and to top that off, I dropped pounds of fat! With that new thought I was excited to continue on my new health path.

This is just one example of how changing my attitude to seeing the success in the situation improves my life.

Choosing Where We Dwell

I want to share something from a woman I've never met--Joy Harjo*. I got this from a friend and it is so wonderful I want to share it.

"In my mind are many dwellings. Each of the dwellings we create ourselves - the house of anger, the house of despair, the house of self pity, the house of indifference, the house of negative, the house of positive, the house of hope, the house of joy, the house of peace, the house of enthusiasm, the house of cooperation, the house of giving. Each of theses houses we visit each day. We can stay in any house for as long as we want. We can leave these mental houses any time we wish. We create the dwelling, we stay in the dwelling, we leave the dwelling whenever we wish. We can create new rooms, new houses. Whenever we enter these dwellings, this becomes our world until we leave for another. What world will we live in today?"

This really got me thinking. Interesting that we speak of "dwelling on something" as well as being in and living in a dwelling. Let us choose to be in the mental houses of joy, positivity and promise. When we find ourselves dwelling on negativity or anger, let us quickly realize that we do have the power to quit that place and move into a positive space. Thank you Joy.

*Source: www.whitebison.org, Elder's Meditation of the Day, Sept. 18

Little Steps

Some days we're not up to moving mountains.

Yet we still want them moved.

So we take little steps. One shovel at a time and the mountain will move.

Be patient with yourself.

Set your course. Be determined. Be consistent. And you can move mountains.

Exercising My Demons

Demons. We all have them. My personal demons tend to be about self-worth and body image. You know what I mean. The little (sometimes BIG) voice that says "you are not talented, who do you think you are kidding?", or "your nose isn't too big, it goes perfectly with your fat body", those sorts of things. Now, your demons may differ from mine, but you know what I mean.

Today I was busy exercising my demons. Instead of stopping them, I let them continue. And boy, did they. And like muscles, with exercise, they get stronger and stronger. And louder.

The good news is that I was able to recognize that I was exercising them before I went into a total depression! As soon as I recognized them I was able to turn the tables and start exorcising!

Having literally and metaphysically cleansed myself, I am back to my healthy self! Far from perfect, but getting better every day. And who wants to be "perfect" anyway?

Treat Them Like Dogs

One of the best lessons I have learned is about appreciation. And it is best demonstrated by the family dog!

It isn't always easy to remember to let the people closest to us know how much we love and appreciate them. I have been working on changing that habit, still it is sometimes a challenge.

"Gosh, doesn't he/she know how much I care?", "I take out the trash", "I do the dishes", "I make my bed"...what I noticed is that we tend to assume (there's that word again!) that because we do tasks that the other person expects us to do, we think they should know that we love them. Heck, just because we are there we think they should know! Hello! What do you mean, you can't read my mind? I have to actually tell you that I love you?

We come home from work, the gym, school, wherever and sometimes they are lucky to get a "hi honey, I'm home". And we're lucky to get a "hello" back.

Now picture the family dog. You come home from wherever. You may have been gone 10 hours or 10 minutes, it doesn't matter. The dog is at the door, wagging his tail, joyful to see you! "Oh I love you, I'm so glad you are home, you make my day bright, thank you for being part of my life, you are a wonderful human, I sure love you". Doesn't that feel fantastic?! Of course it does!

So, treat your family like dogs...you be the dog, so happy to see them. If they come home after you, greet them at the door if possible, give them a smile and a hug (that's the human version the tail wag) and tell them you love them. If you come home after them, go find them and then give them the smile, hug and love.

At first they might think you have lost it! But they will love it...and so will you!

Gifts from the Universe

I set the intention that I am open to receiving from the universe--and I got a call out of the blue from someone wanting to repay an old debt!

The lesson to me is never shut off the universe from providing bounty.

As T. Harv Eker reminds us, "I am a money magnet, thank you, thank you, thank you!"

Enjoying the Moment

I came home today from an appointment that temporarily affected my eyesight. I couldn't read. I couldn't work on the computer. I couldn't work in the studio. I got myself home, but I really knew I shouldn't drive around much either--I could see generalities, but my detail vision was not good.

Instead of feeling sadness or boredom, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. The weather was crisp and clear. I wanted a ride in the convertible!

I came home to a willing accomplice and we went for a mid-week, mid-day spin. How wonderful! We even stopped after a bit and took a gentle stroll at one of our favorite trails.

What a great day. I am so fortunate to be able to take advantage of the beautiful weather and environment we have here. I am grateful to have an "accomplice".

Fall is definitely in the air, and it is grand to just enjoy life, and perfect convertible weather!

Even if you don't have a convertible or you just can't get away during the week for a "Sunday drive", be sure to get out for even just a few minutes when the weather is this good. It really helps to remind us that there is something more out there. Life is not just about making a living--it is about making a Life--enjoy it!

Grateful for the Beauty Around Me

I went out for a drive...one of my favorite things to do in the fall...top down...wind in my hair...

As usual, I was amazed and completely blown away by the beauty of our "neighborhood". The textures, colors and shapes create the most phenomenal sculptures imaginable.

Red rocks thrusting out of the green hillsides. Blue skies for backdrops. It is so beautiful as to not to be believed. Yet, it is real. I am humbled by the art I see in "everyday things"...

It is good to get out and remind oneself that the world is more than just the studio. Or the office. Or whatever place we find ourselves in most of the day!

I am so grateful that I have the time and ability to get out and appreciate the beauty that is all around me.

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone

By my nature, I am inclined to stay at home. I've never been much for parties, dining out or shopping. I like spending quiet time with friends and family, or just being alone.

So going out, even to events that I am very interested in, involves stepping outside of my comfort zone. I am grateful that every month I am given the opportunity to face that challenge.

A tradition held by several towns in our area is that most of the galleries and other businesses downtown stay open so that patrons can view the fantastic art there one Friday each month.

I enjoy seeing what other artists are doing. I love seeing something that makes me think, or exclaim "wow, I never thought of that!" Seeing others' work helps me grow as a person and as an artist. I have the opportunity to drink in the energy and skill of so many artists every month. What a blessing that is.

I have found that it is not possible to get to every venue, so I am forced to choose where I will go. Some times the thought of having to choose where I am going to go is too much and I feel I will just stay home, even though on an intellectual level, I know that I will have a good time. This is when I have to push myself just to take the first step.

Growth is like that. We either grow or die. And to grow we have to push a little bit every day. Some days it is more challenging than others.

Assumers Never Propser

A lady said something to me the other day that I quietly took offense to. It doesn't really matter what she said. What is relevant is that I chose to let it bother me.

Frankly, my ego was bruised. I tried to not let it show, but it irked me that this woman assumed something about me, and my art, without even knowing anything about me other than I sculpt stone.

You know what they say about assuming...well I was pretty sure she was an a....nnoying judgmental jerk. And of course, that I was innocent, misunderstood and unappreciated.

I chose to believe that, and I chose to let it alter my day...in a less than positive way.

Wow. Assuming can really be bad.

Know what I realized this morning?...maybe you are ahead of me here...I have no idea if she was judging me, or making an assumption about me! She made a comment that I chose to ASSUME was an assumption. So who is the a....nnoying judgmental jerk. That would be, moi.

Once I figured this out, it no longer mattered to me what she said. It might be true. Or not. Maybe if she knew more about me and/or my work she wouldn't have said it...or maybe she would have. Maybe it was a comment about her and her work and not about me really after all. (Gosh, you mean the world doesn't revolve around me?)

I allowed my emotions to be controlled by an imagined slight! I am freed by the knowledge that it is not relevant what she said, or even what she meant by what she said! I can choose to be pissed off or hurt, or I can choose to move forward, quite happily, with my life and my work, in my own way, at my own pace. I have decided to choose the latter!

Oh, and don't get me started on presuming versus assuming!

Labels: Captioning our Lives

I was at an artist's reception last night and had a very interesting conversation with a business owner there. We had some business experience in common and so we talked about the trade for a bit. We talked about how the economy affected the industry we were in and how that, in turn, affected my career, my life, and my art. Our discussion became more about philosophy and life than business.

He asked how being an engineer influenced my sculpting. He asked how losing my job impacted my sculpting (I was laid-off 3 times in 5 years.) We spoke of finding our identity. He said when he is asked "what do you do?" his response is typically, "many, many things. As many as I can." Quite a different response than if posed a similarly worded, but completely different question, "what do you for a living?"

Many of us think and believe these two questions to be the same. We lose sight of who we are. We come to believe we are what we do. Being "Let go", laid-off, down-sized, whatever you want to label it, helped me to realize that I am not what I do. I had bought into the notion that I was a good worker. I was a good employee. I was an engineer. I was a cog in the corporate machine.

Once I was, albeit involuntarily, released of most of those labels I struggled for a bit. I first tried to find a different company where the comfortable labels fit. Then I tried different labels.

I still struggle with labels even while I know that I am not the label that I give myself. And I thank being let go for helping me to learn that lesson.

That being said, I wonder, are labels ever helpful, if not entirely accurate?

Think of a photo album. Snapshots of one's experiences. Even putting all the pictures together does not give the complete story. Not even a fair summary of one's life. They are merely summaries of the times when photos were taken, kept and displayed.

Now, add captions (or labels) to each photo. It still does not create the full biography. It does however give some additional insights to the experience that is seen. Upon viewing a photo of a scene, the viewer may interpret it in numerous ways. An accurate label can assist the viewer in understanding the experience as it happened for the one who owns the album.

Similarly, labels can help us present ourselves so others may know us better. If we write the label carefully, thoughtfully, honestly, purposefully. Think about the caption for the photo of this part of your life. Write it so that people see the real you. Let the label help open you, and them, to the experiences of life, rather than being limited to a tiny fragment.

Do I still use labels? Sure. For me they are shorthand for the parts and pieces that make up the puzzle of my life. By putting them together one gets a summary of what has already happened. They are signposts, showing where I have been. But I can also put them to work to assist me in mapping out where I am and where I am going.

I am grateful for labels, for learning to overcome them. I am grateful for letting them go and for, sometimes, picking them back up again.

The Secret Comes to Comcast!

The movie "The Secret" is now available on-demand through cable. If you still have not seen it, here's an opportunity!

The movie is still making an impact on people around the world.

I recommend owning a copy. Personally, I like reviewing a chapter or two on a regular basis. It helps me to have my center all day.

"The Secret" is not a watch one time for entertainment type of movie. Nor is it a dry documentary. It is thought provoking. Every time I watch it I see or hear something differently. Good movies and good books are like that. Eternal.

The Secret to the Endless Summer

Labor Day is traditionally the end of summer in the US. It doesn't have to be--it is all up to you!

Do you want to have the fun and low key life that "summer" signifies to most of us? If that is what you truly desire then you can have it. The Secret and The Secret Science to Getting Rich program (SGR) can help you achieve that life.

Contrary to the belief that some people put out there--it is not just imagining it. Wishful thinking does not bring the lifestyle that we desire. Nor is it all about money--unless that is what you want your life to be. That is not true wealth as the devotees of SGR see it.

So, what is the secret to the endless summer? Must we follow waves (or anything) around the globe for the right weather? Summer is a state of mind. As such, travel is not required, but can be enjoyed--if that is what you want.

Just like learning math, or (plug in the subject you liked most) the Science to Getting Rich can be learned. Does it take making changes in your life? For most of us, yes. If it doesn't, you are probably already rich. Does it require some effort? Again, yes. But then, so did learning to ride a bike and that turned out pretty cool.

Unlike any subject you learned in school, or any sport you tried, or didn't try for that matter, EVERYONE can learn the Science to Getting Rich. That is part of the secret!

"Endless Summer" is at your fingertips. We keep growing and learning. We set new goals. As we ride one wave and enjoy it to the fullest we are then ready for the next, even bigger one.

Grow with each wave. Learn from the other riders out there in the water with you. Teach the new comers. Honor the explorers who preceded you. And never forget to enjoy the ride.

Blessings and Inner Wisdom

I am so incredibly fortunate to live in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. I love looking at the mountains and seeing how they change. Being located near the entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park, we have an exceptional landscape.

While I always appreciate the view, and express my joy and gratitude at this blessing, I had a new experience today. I thought about how painters and photographers can capture this beauty and rather than being discouraged that I can't capture it in stone, it got me thinking about how can I capture that feeling in my media?

That thought brought back a vivid memory of my childhood. When I was a kid, living in Japan, we learned Bonkei. This is an art of building small landscapes in trays. They are designed to be temporary. I recall making mountains, valleys, rivers and lakes. This has me thinking that I might have a different theme coming up--just because I have chosen to work in stone doesn't mean that I have to work exclusively in stone. And even if I do, I can be creative in how I work with stone. One of the great things about art is that there really aren't any rules. Sure you start with rules, but then you also figure out how to break them.

I'm excited about the idea that I can broaden my work. Interesting to note that thinking about painting may help me to evolve my sculpture! And that I got this inspiration right "around the corner" from my own home! Not at a show, not at a museum, not through a "teacher"...through my own communion with my inner wisdom and the universe this inspiration came through!

Vacations and Rituals

Why is it that when I was traveling I allowed myself to get away from my good patterns as well as some of the less than good? What happened to my meditations, my visualizations, my grattitudes? My daily practice of brushing my teeth doesn't change just because I'm on vacation, so why do these?

I know that I am not alone in this and it is an interesting question. When we can use all our great tools the most, we leave them behind. Perhaps this is the sign of the novice. Or maybe I was just lazy. Or maybe it was because I only had a short time to plan. Whatever the "real" reason, I did not pack my SGR program.

There is something about changing one's physical environment that gives us great opportunities and challenges. It is wonderful to shed our schedules and it can be quite joyful to be "different" than we are at home: relaxed, playful, willing to spend our time and money more frivolously. At the same time we have other issues that come up when we travel: the travel itself, being away from home, with our familiar kitchen, bed and other niceties, strangers, lines.

So while it may behoove us to live outside our normal boundaries, it can also create additional stress in our lives. The beneficial tools we have like the SGR program can help us to maximize the potential and minimize the downsides to vacations, travel and family visits.

Is it enough to remember occasionally the lessons in the SGR? Certainly it is better than not remembering them. What I found is that because I was not immersed in the program on a regular, daily basis, I did not "remember" the lessons when I could use them the most!

It is easy to remember to be grateful while on the beach, playing in the surf and sand. Less easy to remember when things aren't going the way I want...even with little things like not having my coffee for two mornings in a row. Pretty minor stuff can really push out of alignment, if we let it.

Lesson from this vacation--pack the good tools in the suitcase. Things that help you "go with the flow" while at home, will assist you on the road as well. And really, how much room does a little MP3 player take anyway? Maybe I just needed this opportunity to experience the contrast of using the SGR program regularly and not using it, so that I can really realize how grateful I am to have it and the difference it makes in my life!

Joy At the Beach

I'm currently visiting family on the west coast. Helping my mother out with projects that she has wanted to have done for a while. Playing in the pool at my brother's. Going to the ocean.

Call it a "working vacation"! I am enjoying myself, getting some things done and playing, so it is all good.

One of the things on my list of "must dos" when I come is to visit the beach. Living in a beautiful mountain state is great, but we do enjoy the ocean when we are here. While in the water the other day a Harbor Seal popped up within 15 feet of me...he looked as surprised as I felt when our eyes met.

Another of my favorite beach critters are the pelicans. At home we have white pelicans. Here they are brown. The original Jedi fliers...tight formations inches above the water in the channels created by the waves.

When I got too cold in the water, I took a break and warmed up on the sand. I get quickly bored if I sit still with nothing to do, so I started sculpting in the sand. I created a dolphin, about 5 feet long. That was fun. Even when the water came in and started to dissolve my work. It all felt very natural, like the tides had come to claim one of their own.

The temporary nature of working with beach sand is an interesting experience. Very quickly done and quickly lost. Going into it, you know they are only for a short time.

What a great metaphor for life! We never know how much time we have. So, use the tools you are given (or you develop) even if the are "only" your hands. Take those tools, the ready material and create your life--not just a career, a real life! Give it dimension. Revel in the softness, the sensuous curves, the hard spots, and celebrate when nature takes its course. We don't know which wave will be the "big one" or when that big wave will come to claim us. We just know that there will be a big one with our name on it. Rather than wait in fear, not creating what we really want for fear that it will be lost, we create anyway, knowing someday it WILL be lost, but we are not creating for some day, we are creating for today, now, this minute.

How sad to live a life with no mourning because nothing was risked. I know that my life will contain mourning and in an odd twist, that makes me glad. By feeling the grief of loss, I prove to myself that I have lived, created and achieved something in this life.

The Universe Likes Speed and Time is Relative

Patience. How do we balance patience with speed?

Let's put it into perspective. That helps me.

Since I am a stone sculptor, let's use art as an example. Sculpting has been a great teacher for me. It has definitely taught me patience.

When I first started art school, I was a print maker. I really loved it--and I probably still would. I liked making multiple copies of something. I liked seeing results fairly quickly.

Then I was exposed to stone sculpting. I was carving in an abandoned limestone quarry in southern France. I was hit with the bug big time. I was in the quarry every minute not required by my many other studies. I even carved by moonlight. The sculpting was much slower than printmaking, but so rewarding and tactile. I was in love! I learned to be patient at the release of each piece. Not patient enough, it turns out. I carved so much and so many pieces that my hands were frozen shut until I pried them open every morning.

Over the years, my hands got worse. I had thought it was just muscles not used to such activity. Instead, it turned out I gave myself Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Two surgeries and a lot of physical therapy later I was told I couldn't carve any more.

I was devestated. I tried other types of sculpture but none gave me the satisfaction that I had with stone.

I stopped carving completely for more than 10 years. Then, I finally decided enough was enough. Once I made the decision, it seemed like things fell into place. This is where speed comes in! I went to New Zealand, carved with artists there and refell in love.

Once back home in Colorado I tried to figure out ways to make a 1940s house have a dust proof studio. Since that wasn't possible, I moved and now have a studio where I can work in my own home. This didn't happen overnight, but in the scheme of things, it has been fast. Our lives are like a blink of the eye for the universe...even when as kids we are lounging bored waiting for summer to speed by more quickly so we can see all our friends again.

The thing that I have learned is to act. But don't force it. Don't expect it to take a single day, week or even a year--unless it does, in which case that is fantastic! Act, none the less. For if we don't act (the speed part) then nothing changes and we will just be older and ultimately die without having done the things that we really wanted to but that would "take too long". Every day, take one little step...write one page...paint one color...and by the end of the year you have a book a painting, a sculpture, what ever it is. A baby may be conceived in an instant, but it takes more than 9 months for it to emerge.

One day, one stone at a time.

Learning to Not Push Rope

Pushing rope is a phrase I picked up because it so simply describes when we are working too hard at making something happen rather than allowing it to unfold at the right time.

Today I had moments of allowing and other moments of pushing a big heavy rope! The good news is that I was aware of the rope and was then able to sit back and change my thoughts and methods. Fortunately when I was not aware I had someone around who gently brought it to my attention.

Deadlines are a prime time when most of us push rope. When we just "gotta get it done" staying calm and even can sometimes be a challenge.

If you find that you are facing a deadline and you realize you are "pushing rope", take a break. I know that you think in the moment you cannot possibly take that break--there is far too much to get done, right. Take the break anyway. Breathe deep and get centered. Do what you need to do to find your inner peace and energy. When you go back to the project you were working on, keep that feeling with you. You will be more productive and get more done, at a higher level than you would have if you had just stayed manning the rope station.

Relax. You get more done.

Today's Gift was a Broken Stone

I am a stone sculptor and so life is frequently revealed to me while I work. I feel so blessed and incredibly grateful that I am able to be in my studio every day and have these wonderful stones surround me and teach me.

Today I was working on a small piece of marble. I have a big show coming up and I was trying to finish this sculpture to have it at the show. I had been able to do some pretty cool things with the stone and was pleased with it, but I didn't have a sense of real communion with the piece. It was becoming more of an exercise--not quite a chore, but not a joy either.

I put my chisel to the stone and gently tapped it. Suddenly I have 2 completely separate stones.

There had been a big fissure running through the marble and that tap hit it just right.

These things happen when you are a stone sculptor. It can be heartbreaking and discouraging if you let it. Today I knew that it was a gift to me. Listening to the SGR program over and over has probably helped. I could hear Jack Canfield's voice saying "That's good". I suspect that I was not really listening to what the stone wanted to be. Since I wasn't listening, it had to show me in the only way it could--it forced me to stop and reevaluate.

Now the 2 pieces are on the shelf. I am not sure what they will become. Probably something better than the original idea. When I next work on them, you can bet I'll be listening to the stones better.

In the meantime, I picked up another piece that I had pretty much thought I wouldn't get done for the show. This piece spoke to me today and the hours flew by. This was a joyful, calm, experience. It reminded me that this is why I am a stone sculptor.

So thank you for broken stones. Sometimes they help us find our bliss! It works this way with people, too. Sometimes we have deep cracks running through us that aren't visible on the outside. By listening, we can help each other to become the masterpieces that we are inside--cracks and all!

Want Versus Desire

Have you ever been told that if you "want" something you will also be given the opportunity to "want"? In other words, by saying you want the thing you will not acquire the thing, only more wanting of it.

Many personal development "gurus" say that over and over. And I bought into it, hook line and sinker. I worked diligently at eliminating the word from my vocabulary.

This morning I realized something important about that statement--I had an "Ah ha! moment" as Oprah would say. While words are important, they are not the bottom line in this universe. More important than the word is the intention or feeling behind the word.

If you choose to "want" something, are you longing for it, pining for it, aching for it, believing it is out of your grasp? If that is how you want, then truly you will never acquire it, because it is out of your grasp. In this instance, you are wanting something but feeling the lack of it.

Or is your "wanting" a desire that you see coming to you, that you know is a part of your life? When you think about the thing you desire are you filled with positive energy and joy at the mere thought of it? That is anticipation, excitement. This type of wanting will allow you to manifest the object of your desire because you feel it already in your life.

The lesson I learned today is that emotions behind the words are much more important than the words. Don't allow your emotions to be restricted by the search for the "right" word or by the limitations of vocabulary.

This insight reminded me that this is not a "one size fits all" universe! Use your own mind and emotions when listening to anyone. You are the only one who knows how you are feeling about a certain thing. Others can help you, guide you, coach you, but you are the one in the end who is responsible for your thoughts, feelings and actions, and ultimately only you can decide what is right for you.

That's Good

I've been listening to my SGR program while in the studio lately. I listen to one CD over and over again. For two main reasons: one, that way I don't have to change the CD and get it all dusty or scratched, and two, because I have only little speakers in the studio and I am chiseling and filing and have my exhaust fan running, I don't always hear everything on a conscious level. So I really hear something new every time I listen! Additionally, by listening over and over to the same lessons, it sinks into my subconscious and I absorb it rather than just "learn" it.

Yesterday I heard Jack Canfield relate the theory he learned from W. Clement Stone of "That's good". No matter what it is, say "that's good". Then, find the good in it.

This can be a challenge when we are faced with big issues. So start with the small stuff. Or not. Start wherever you find yourself. It is all good.

I decided to apply this to the big stuff in my life: life, death, disease. Not just from the intellectual standpoint of knowing that those who are no longer here physically are in a "better place", but how is that "good" for me? For those who have died, whether suddenly or through long illness, whether older or quite young, let me be reminded that they were a wonderful presence in my life. That is good. I can admire their best qualities and strive to be like them. That is good. I can live my life to its fullest now, because who knows how long we each have? That is good. And I can be true to myself, be the best me I can. And that is very, very good.

I don't know about you, but for me it has been easy to degrade myself. I easily saw the value in others, even if they didn't see it in themselves. But appreciating my skills, my uniqueness, has always been a challenge. Thank you to my many friends and loved ones, both present and past, who show me that being unique is a blessing and I celebrate all our quirks--theirs and mine. That is good.

One of the biggest lessons I am getting right now is that I am different from everyone else. And that is good. Wouldn't the world be a boring place if we were all the same? The fact that my sense of humor is different from yours is good. We may, or may not laugh at the same jokes, and that is okay, in fact, that is great! My goals may be different from yours. That is good. There is room for us all. All our different beliefs, dreams, wants, preferences. In fact, it is because we all have different beliefs, desires, and goals that there is room for us all! Otherwise we'd all be trying to exist on the same exact piece of land doing the exact same thing. That leads to competition. Instead, we can collaborate and have synergistic relationships where we each grow, learn, help and challenge one another. In this way, we can all become better individuals and better as societies and as a race.

The world is a wonderful place. I didn't always believe that. Now I know it. Partly because I have lost people I love. By losing them, I have really begun to appreciate those around me. And that is very, very good.

Testing 1--2--3

OK, so I'm being put to the test.

I said a few days ago that it is important to focus on the positive. It definitely is. And I am being challenged in that area, perhaps because I know how important it is.

Yesterday, a friend of mine died. Now, normally that would be hard enough. However, Frank's death is one in a string of loved ones. It all started with my father's death in April. Since then I have lost one person every month.

Frankly, no pun intended, I am ready for this to end!

I do feel so blessed that I have been able to talk to these lovely people shortly before their deaths. For half of them, it was actually the day before. Please note that only one of these people was "ill" and knew that death was coming. The others were "older" but still vibrant, wonderful, healthy human beings. I am grateful they did not suffer. I am very grateful that I knew them. Yes, I am sad that I will no longer hear their voices nor will I see their faces, except when I close my eyes. I am glad to have been a part of their lives, and they mine.

Life is such a wonderful gift. We do not know how long we will be here, nor do we know (at least consciously) with whom we will connect. So let's make the most of it, shall we? Smile often (it is free and gives a great return!) Love openly. Laugh out loud. Enjoy the birds, the trees, the mountains, the streams. Give of your own heart. Be true to YOU, not what others expect of you.

Enjoy life. Each of us brings something wonderful to the world. And if you get a sudden "feeling" that you should call or visit someone--please do. Listen to that inner voice. You will be glad you did.

And, thanks for sharing your life. I really appreciate it.

Today, the toast is for Frank!

Friday the 13th, Oh Lucky Day!

In a real life example of everything is how you think about it, consider today. It is Friday, the 13th. Are you one of those who believes this is an unlucky day? Not I. I have always chosen to believe it to be one of the luckiest of days.

When my classmates cringed at taking tests on these days, for fear of bad results, I revelled in it, knowing my results would be better than ever. They were afraid and proved to themselves that they were right by actually getting poor grades on their tests. What they didn't realize was that it was their very fear of the day that brought them poor test results. The proof of this is that I always had terrific results on these days! If one person can have great results, then anyone can!

The lesson for me is to remember to look at the places where I hold on to fears. These may be big or small, rational or not. As I look at them, I take a deep breath and release the fear and am no longer victim of dire consequences, instead I am the creator and receiver of multitudinous blessings.

How's that Workin' For You?

It is easy for us to see the negative in situations. That is what most of us do. As Dr. Phil would ask "how's that workin' for you?" For most of us, not so hot.

The Law of Attraction is very clear about this. If we notice the negatives and forget to see, appreciate and be grateful for the positives, we will continue to get the negatives.

Challenge yourself to find the good in every situation. Then feel the gratitude for the experience. This skill alone will turn your life around because you will now get more and more of the things you can be grateful for.

I'll be the first to admit, when I'm in the depths of the "challenge" (ha!) this is not always easy to do. I have found that with practice and effort it becomes easier. So, what have you got to lose by giving it a go?

I know that my divorce was extremely painful and I had a very hard time seeing "the good" in that. I felt like a failure, as do many others in that situation. Now, I know that it was the best possible outcome for me. Yes, it allowed me to be available when my perfect partner came along, but it also taught me things and allowed me to grow so that I would be attractive to that person! I am not the same person I was then (and isn't that a good thing!) I can honestly say that I am grateful for the marriage, and the end of it, and that I wish my ex well.

Take every experience and be grateful. It is what makes you who you are today. And what you are is a wonderful, deserving, growing human being.

Don't be a Lemming!

When we do what we are "supposed to" or "should" do we are listening to others. I suggest we learn to listen to ourselves. Listen to your instincts. The quiet voice inside you will tell you the direction of your unique path.

In other words--don't be a Lemming and follow everyone else off the cliff. I know, I know. We heard things like this from our parents "if everyone else jumped off a cliff, would you?" Generally in response to our lame justification for wanting something or wanting to do something because "everyone else" had it/was doing it.

What our parents didn't want us to know, is that they would have been pretty darn happy if we followed what THEY did...or at least what they told us they did!

Don't get me wrong--my parents (and yours too I suspect) did the absolute best they could. They wanted the best things for me. What they thought were the best things for me. And my parents loved me 100 million percent. Even when I drove them absolutely bonkers.

The thing is, we are all individuals. As such we have different likes, dislikes, needs and wants. So what is best for one of us is not necessarily best for anyone else. Although we all tend to think we know what is best for our friends and relatives, we can only truly know what is best for ourselves.

So if we know what is best for us, why do we make such mistakes as drinking too much, going out in public in that outfit, and marrying the wrong person?

Perhaps it is because we are not listening to our own inner voice. Sometimes we are trying so hard to be "the good girl" (or guy), or the "proper" person, or the one that society/our parents/the neighbors will be proud of, that we forget to stop and get really quiet and listen to our own hearts and what we really want out of life.

Decide today to get quiet and really listen. Don't talk. Just listen. Don't even pray. Just listen. This takes some practice--most of us aren't all that comfortable with the silence. But it is worth the effort, for it is in the silence that our soul will whisper to us. It might be in the wee hours of the morning, or late at night. It might be while you are sitting on the bed, or going for a walk. Leave the iPod at home once in a while when you go for your walk. Give your inner voice a chance.

Then when you hear it, listen--and don't be a lemming.

Does "The Secret" Focus Too Much on Money?

As a huge fan of the movie "The Secret" I have told hundreds (if not thousands) of people about the film. Several people have mentioned that they feel there is too much emphasis on money and getting rich in the movie.

I confess, this surprised me. I felt (and still do) that the movie does a great job of exploring The Law of Attraction and how we can use it in many, many facets of our lives.

Relationships, health, career, and yes, money. One of my favorite points is made by James Ray when he mentions real wealth is not just about money...money is a part of it, but it also includes your physical, emotional and spiritual health as well.

So money is a part of real wealth, then why does it bring up such strong feelings of animosity and angst? Does anyone get really emotional at the suggestion that optimum health is part of being truly wealthy? Or that wealth includes a deep connection with other people and God (the universe, source, however you see that spiritual connection)?

Money is a tool. It is neither good nor bad. Money just is. And if we are honest with ourselves, it is pretty necessary in today's world. So if money is necessary and not inherently evil, why not have more of it?

Is it a virtue to be poor? Not on your life! As Oprah Winfrey says, "one of the best things you can do for the poor is not be one of them".

With much money I can do much good for more people than I can if I have just a little money.

When we have little money there is more worry--about how to pay the bills, feed the family, put shoes on the kids, keep the car gassed up so we can get to work. There is little time, energy or money for getting ahead much less sharing with others. Have you ever felt like you were barely keeping your head above water? Maybe you have felt like you were "going down for the third time". Where is the virtue in that?

Money doesn't solve every problem. It isn't magic. But it does make life more enjoyable. If you had "more than enough" money, what would you do with it? How would you contribute to your family, your community, the world, in ways that you are unable to now? How do you feel when you think about doing those things? Do you feel good? THAT is what having money can do!

Being rich means to me living the best life I can. That takes money. That is a fact of life in every part of the world that I know about. Does that make you uncomfortable? Then think about your kids. If you have kids, you want them to have a great life. That is what all parents want for their kids. For them to live their best life they need education, food, clothing AND they need their parents around them, giving them love.

So live your best life and help your kids do the same. Help the world to be a better place. Know that you can be rich, in all areas of your life. Money is one of those ways. With your money, help others who have less. Learn about the world and how to help protect it. Like any tool, when you know how to use it, it becomes more and more useful and valuable. Learn to handle money. Learn to use it. Learn to be rich.

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness

I am so grateful to live in this land where I have the liberty to live as I choose and do the things that bring me so much happiness.

Gratitude is one of the best ways to continue to receive all the good that can possibly flow to you, so remember to always be grateful for what you have.

I know that I am. Even when events don't seem to be positive, I know down the road I will see the good in them. Working the SGR program really helps me to see the good in the situation NOW! Remember, NOW is all we have!

Thank you to all the wonderful people in my life. Those who helped make me who I am by being in my life in the past; those who are coming to me in the future; those who share my life experiences now. I am fortunate to have so many wonderful "family" members--by blood, marriage, and mutual agreement!

Be safe. Be happy. Be grateful. Be love. Be peace.

Happy Independence Day!

The Law of Attraction and the Secret Science to Getting Rich

I just started listening to my SGR CDs and they are AWESOME!

Bob Proctor, Jack Canfield and Dr. Michael Beckwith are so inspiring and clear in the information given.

I feel my attitude shifting already! That is amazing!!

I loved "The Secret" and this is even better because it teaches you HOW to implement the principles in the movie and that special little book.