Thank You Letters

I know from my personal experience that I feel happier when I am aware of being grateful for what I already have in my life. And I feel good letting people know that I appreciate them and/or what they have done for me.

Well now a professor at Kent State has conducted a study that indicates writing letters that demonstrate our gratitude can improve our own happiness. And I thought writing thank you letters was just good manners--and for the "other guy". Now we have a selfish reason to write our thank yous!

Steven Toepfer, the prof, had students write letters thanking people for the positive influence they had provided. The students didn't write a lot of letters, just one every other week for six weeks. That's only 3 letters!

The ground rules were pretty simple, be positive, express appreciation and (no doubt the most challenging part) include some "insight and reflection, not venture into trivial waters"...in other words, they had to put some thought into it!

After writing the letters the students were surveyed to gauge their mood, feelings of happiness, gratitude and overall life satisfaction.

The study showed that happiness levels were higher after each letter. According to the professor, 75% of the students want to continue writing letters--even after the study ended.

Our "social network" is important--large or small is not the key. But having and maintaining a few significant relationships has great benefits. According to Toepfer these benefits are both psychological and physical!

This appears to agree with the information we learned earlier this month about happiness being "contagious" and the importance of social networks for our happiness!

Affirmations Work for All Areas of Our Lives

Affirmations work for us.

Whether we are looking to lose weight, fatten our bank account, improve our health, increase the love in our lives, decrease stress or add joyful experiences, we can help achieve all these things and more by using affirmations.

The first step is to be clear on what you want. Then affirm that you have it!

Check out today's health affirmation at RefuseToDiet.com

Be the Change You Want to See in the World

My friend, and a beautiful soul, Carol Oxenrider has set up a not-for-profit foundation, Serendipity West, and is working to make an impact on the lives of kids--and their families.

I am so impressed by Carol...she had a vision of what she wanted to achieve in the world and she set out to get it! She didn't know how it was going to happen, but with her faith in her dream she has been attracting people to support and promote her vision along the way!

Carol works with schools to set up "Challenge Days" and also "Be the Change" workshops. The latest workshop was called, "Next Step to Being the Change" and was held in Bend, Oregon December 5-7.

It’s such a treasure to experience events that allow people, young and old alike, to understand that we each are unique and special and have important things to contribute to the world.

Carol tells me they have 4 Challenge Days coming up in January in her area!

Wow!!!

To learn more about Carol, her foundation and the wonderful work they are doing, check out her blog: http://yourpieceofthepuzzle.blogspot.com/. It's all about how we can make a difference in the world by bringing programs like Challenge Day to our communities.

Visit Carol's website--it you are in her vicinity perhaps you can collaborate on projects. If you are in a different area and her work sounds like something you'd be interested in, let her know! I know for a fact her vision is to make an impact around the world!

Thank You for the Teachers Around Me

I am so grateful for the wonderful teachers that surround me.

Some of these teachers are "official"--you know speakers, authors, professors, ministers, experts in their fields, etc.

I'm also grateful for the "unofficial" teachers, who frequently do not even recognize themselves as teachers. This might include a neighbor, a child, the shop clerk, someone in line at the post office.

Some of the other teachers that we are surrounded by include all the elements of nature--the trees, clouds, our pets, wildlife...here I have been getting many lessons from some simple natural events--the doves who live in the trees outside my dining room, the horses in the pasture across the street, the glorious sunrises.

I am grateful for the wonderful sense of joy, peace and harmony that I get when I contemplate these wonderful teachers.

Taking Care of Oneself

I "met" someone today through her blog...she is talking about the importance of taking care of oneself...and she referenced my RefuseToDiet blog.

The idea of taking care of self is something I've been covering here. I really appreciate her take on things we can do (actions)--check out her blog!

Taking care of oneself includes our health, doing our affirmations, keeping our hearts centered on love and peace...and really deciding that we deserve good things and setting our intentions that we are open to receiving all the good there is in the universe!

The Importance of Feeding the Soul

Listening to Cheryl Richardson yesterday I was reminded how important it is to do things that feed the soul...by doing what brings us joy we open ourselves up to even more gifts from the universe.

I had been neglecting my own source of joy--my art. Yesterday I made my way to the studio for the first time in a long time. What a wonderful experience and reminder!

I had been allowing myself to focus on "tasks" that seemed important...but not joyful. Instead, yesterday I did some "tasks" but I also spent half the day in the studio. During this time I could actually feel the energy shift and the openness to positive things from the Universe.

Thank you Cheryl for the reminder. Thank you to my supportive partner who encouraged me. And thanks to myself for following through on the inspiration!

Attitude Is Key

No matter what you want to change about your life, your attitude is the key component.

A woman here in Loveland, Colorado, is an excellent example of this. Like me, she has struggled with weight her entire life. And like me, she made a determination to change.

Unlike me, her success made national television when Jay Leno dissed her as part of the Tonight Show, Headlines segment in November. Apparently her losing 80 pounds was not visible enough in the advertisement and so the comedian poked fun at her.

For a lot of people, that would have been enough to send them to the frig or back to bed. For this local woman, she is using it fuel her desire to achieve her goals of fitness.

What an awesome example for all of us! Whether we want to bring more health into our lives or if we want to attract the perfect mate, more money, the perfect job or our dream home...it is up to us to set the intention and keep our attitude positive and not let other people "take us out!"

I'm Filled with Gratitude

I'm sitting in the quiet and really feeling grateful for everything that I have in my life.

The end of the year is a great time to reflect back on what blessings we have...

Thank you Universe for the abundance all around me, the beauty, the horses, the people, the wonderful experiences. Thank you for bringing the right teachers into my life and for the prosperity that is mine. I am so blessed.

Taking Action is an Essential Part of the Attraction Equation

I was watching an interview with Cheryl Richardson today, part of the extended You Can Heal Your Life movie by Louise Hay. I love how I can watch these interviews over and over and hear something new each time...

Affirmation + Action = Miracles
~Cheryl Richardson

I have written about this numerous times...taking action is an essential part of the equation!

Listening to Guidance

Whether you believe that inner voice that whispers to you is your own inner wisdom, an angel or spirit guide, or God, it is important that we take note of those messages and listen to them--and take action upon them.

I find that when I get this sort of guidance it generally comes more than just one time. If I'm being less than receptive because I'm just not listening, or I just don't want to hear that particular message, it will come back. Typically it will get stronger and more blunt over time.

When I get the same message several times, whether in dreams, inspiration or suddenly hearing people mention the same thing over and over then I know it is time for me to sit with it, check to see how the message feels, and then take appropriate action.

Affirmations are About Feeling Not Just Words

When we repeat our affirmations, it is good to remember that the Universe responds to our feelings, not really the words that we are saying. So if you are saying your affirmations regularly, and find that it is more of a rote habit, it may be time to change it up a bit!

Whether you say the same exact words or change the words, place the focus on the feeling. What is it that you are expecting? What is your desire? What are you looking to manifest in your life? Slow down, place your hands on your chest, take a deep breath and imagine that you have that in your life now. Feel in your heart how grateful you are for this wonderful state of health/abundance/whatever it is that is in your heart. Then, when you have that feeling--of gratitude, or having it now-- say your affirmations.

Create Your Life

Every day (and every moment of every day) we have the opportunity to CHOOSE to create our life.

The very thing that we complain about over and over is the thing we are creating in our lives.

~Gay Hendricks

Get clear on what you want, rather than what you do not want, in your life. Focus on that and we can manifest anything.

Gay Hendricks, author and co-founder of Spiritual Cinema Circle, realized in his twenties that he was not living consciously...that he was not choosing his own life. Rather he seemed to be living a life of someone else's design...and he was miserable!

That is when he had an AH HA moment!!!

I can invent my own life

~Gay Hendricks

Now he is healthier, happier and certainly better off financially, too!

Let us all work on creating our ideal lives!

Grateful for a Gorgeous Start to My Day

This morning I woke to the most gorgeous sunrise.

It really made me STOP and LOOK and FEEL. And that is a wonderful thing!

I'm recommitting to noticing "gorgeous sunrises" throughout my day so that I reconnect with Source / the Universe more and more often.

Hope for Change

Fear is the Opposite of Love

There are 2 basic emotions: love and the lack of love. Some people will say that the opposite of love is hate. But where does hate really come from? Fear. When we are not coming from love, we are actually coming from fear.

Esther & Jerry Hicks refer to this in the Teachings of Abraham (Check out the book Ask and It Is Given...great!) So does scientist Gregg Braden. Many other fantastic teachers point this out.

When you want to manifest, or attract, something into your life (some thing or person or event or skill...you name it) it is crucial to be aware of the emotion behind the desire.

Coming from love will allow you to attract what you want. The same exact thoughts that are powered by fear will bring you the lack of what you want or some other negative aspect of what you want.

Abraham uses an example about money...if you desire to have more money, you can not attract it if your feelings are about the lack of money, or jealousy that someone else has money and you don't.

Whether it is money, or health or an ideal relationship, if we come from our place of "not having" or fear of not getting it, then we will not attract it into our lives. I wrote a post last month in response to a question about this topic...if you didn't read it then, check it out by clicking here.

My goal is to approach everything from a place of love. I am not perfect at it (yet!) but I am on the path. I am pleased that my awareness grows every day and I find myself being more clear and loving all the time.

I believe when we all come from this loving place there will be peace on earth. And isn't that a lovely (and loving) thought!

Happiness and Social Networking

In yesterday's post I mentioned a study that talks about happiness being contagious and that our happiness is dependent upon the actions, behaviors and thoughts of others' as well as ourselves.

One of the points they were making was that social networks are a key component to a person's happiness. Social networks...hmmm...like having friends, perhaps? Does anyone really believe this is news?

For most of us, having a group of like-minded people with whom we can laugh, share ideas, be stimulated and challenged, and yes, even comiserate with is a very important element of being happy as an individual.

Social networking has a new meaning these days...there are lots of sites on the internet that are designed to help people bond with other, like-minded people. Blogging would be one example of course, but so are places like Twitter and Facebook.

So does networking online pass the contagion? Christakis wouldn't say for sure. I believe it does...not as powerful as flesh & blood communication or hearing someone's voice directed to you, but when you build a relationship with people that is positive and uplifting that can only be a good thing.

Is Happiness Contagious or is it the Law of Attraction?

Associated Press recently cited a British medical journal paper that concludes happiness is "contagious"...they sounded surprised to find that good cheer can be and is passed "even to total strangers"...

It may have been a British medical journal, but the study was done by American researchers. And no, they weren't following people in sunny California, but in Framingham, Mass. This report was part of a 20 year study on the heart.

Co-author of the study and professor at Harvard, Nicholas Christakis says, "Happiness is like a stampede"

Your happiness depends on your actions and according to the study the behaviors, thoughts and actions of people you don't even know. I agree--if you let it! You do have a choice about it, after all. You can live unconsciously and be happy because of other people...or you can create your life deliberately and be happy regardless of other people.

In other words, choose to be happy and you be the light, the contagion, if you will! Let others become happier because of your example. If you run across unhappy people, you can repell that energy!

That being said, it is a great idea to surround yourself with happy people. According to this study, each "happy friend" you have boosts your chances of being happy by 9%. Have grumpy friends drops your chances--fortunately not quite as much, by 7%.

Guess the song was right: Don't Worry, Be Happy!

What a Beautiful Day and Life

Yesterday we had our first snow of the season.

The moisture is welcome. It is so beautiful. Quiet. Cold.

I'll choose to focus on the beauty and quiet!

I'm so happy and grateful for the beautiful fall we had, and for the different beauty we get to experience now for the winter. Thank you for the blessings of abundant moisture and beauty.

What Do I Want in My Life

Are you wondering why your affirmations aren't manifesting? How come the Law of Attraction doesn't seem to be delivering...if it is the "law" then where is the result?

I find that one of the biggest reasons for this is when I am not clear on what I actually want in my life.

If I vacilate about my dream home or my ideal partner or what I want my body to look like, then how can I expect the Universe to know what to give me?

Get clear through exercises like Michael Losier's Clarity Through Contrast or by listening to Louise Hay or other wonderful teachers of the Law of Attraction.

Get really clear about the elements you require, the experience you want and how that feels. Then you are setting the stage for the Universe to deliver.

Listen to the Messages and Take Action

While we are contemplating the possibilities, it is also important to be open to the messages that we get from the Universe/Source /God /Infinite Intelligence...what you call it is not crucial.

These messages, if we listen, will tell us the step(s) that is in our best interest to take.

I've talked about this before, but it is worth repeating...

Sometimes this will come as a full-blown idea. Other times it will be a tiny step that may seem inconsequential.

The message may come when you are first waking up, in that foggy time between subconscious and consciousness. Or the message may come while you are relaxing in the shower or during meditation.

Or it may come in a physical form--you see or hear mention of the same thing repeatedly, say on the news, in the paper, in the mail, at the water cooler, in line at the store. Whenever we hear things repeatedly it deserves to be paid attention to. It may or may not be a message from the Universe, but if we don't hear it we won't know!

Another way to receive a message is that it may actually awaken you during the night...for example I have been woken up between 4:44 and 4:57 every morning for several weeks to use the bathroom. I believe that I am getting a message (that has nothing to do with the toilet!) My job is to be awake enough to write it down and then ACT UPON IT!

Positive thoughts and words are great...and they are a start...if and when we get the message and the impulse to act, then we must act. At that point the thoughts and words alone are not enough!

Contemplate the Possibilities

Thomas Troward (1847-1916) greatly influenced the New Thought movement at the end of the 19th century. One of his points was that it is by contemplating the possibility of a thing that we can actually bring it about.

Contemplate the possibilities that you want to have manifest in your life.

Be grateful for the possibilities and their manifestation.

To read more about Thomas Troward's ideas check out his books:

• The Edinburgh and Dore Lectures on Mental Science
• The Creative Process in the Individual (New Edition)
• The Hidden Power

World Gratitude

In September I wrote about the World Gratitude Gathering...well, it was a fantastic success!

Think you missed out? Well, the series was so well received the folks at Go Gratitude are re-running !

For those wishing to receive the 42 day message series, please go to: www.WorldGratitude.com/join.html and enter your name and email address.

The series will re-start the, from Day 1, beginning on November 27th.

Sales Moves: The law of attraction, or the law of hard work? You ... - Eagle Tribune

Many people misunderstand the movie/book The Secret to mean that there is no action required. I'm not sure how they get that...

Quite literally in the movie you are told sometimes what you attract is an inspiration, a great idea that you need to implement. Remember Jack Canfield? Yes he did lots of exercises, but he also wrote a book and came up with a way to market it. He was open to the Universe bringing him the idea and the people he would need to make that a reality.

Coming from your true self and being in harmony with what you want is critical. And for some perhaps it is all they need. Most of us do need to take action--but if we are in harmony the actions will seem easier. If you feel like you are "pushing rope" then you know you are not in harmony with what you want!

Read the following article by Jeffrey Gitomer. He has an interesting perspective on this. I encourage you to work at what you want, be open to the Universe, and to remember, as he closes with "you have a choice"...that is what makes all the difference!

Sales Moves: The law of attraction, or the law of hard work? You ... - Eagle Tribune

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Frustration, Questions Follow in Wake of Law of Attraction Popularity - PR Web (press release)

I listen to at least one teacher on the Law of Attraction or the other great laws of the universe just about every day.

I found the Law of Attraction was working really well for me today...I was listening to scientist Greg Braden this morning and then I found the interesting article below.

The article mentions people feeling like LoA is not working. I don't know about the book referenced in the article, but I have heard many, many teachers comment on just saying affirmations or thinking positive thoughts is not enough.

What I got this morning from Greg Braden was a wonderful visual...imagine the 7 chakras. The top 3 relate to our thoughts. The bottom three, our emotions. It is by filling our thoughts with the power of the emotions that we actually see results--through the 7th chakra, our heart.

So if you are saying empty affirmations you will not see the results. If you are negating your affirmations by having negative emotions then you will not see the results you "think" you want. It is by having our emotions in harmony with our thoughts that we are in the pure state of allowing.

Frustration, Questions Follow in Wake of Law of Attraction Popularity - PR Web (press release)

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Trust the Big Picture

Here is a great visual image from Alan Cohen

Everything that is a minus (or negative)
Is the beginning of a plus
Waiting for a stroke of vertical awareness.

Remember the Law of Polarity--everything has it's opposite. For every good there is a bad, for every bad there is a good.

Choose to find the good that comes out of what appears to be a bad.

That is YOU applying the stroke of vertical awareness. Then truly everything you touch will be a success.

Is Law of Attraction Enough?

Not according to Brian Tracy.

The Law of Attraction is just one of the laws of the universe. It is a powerful law and it is necessary, but it is not the ONLY law and by itself it is not enough.

Brian saws there are 7 laws that all interact and affect our lives -- and that we put into motion every day whether we realize it or not.

Other great teaches have also said there are 7 laws. Bob Proctor, Wallace Wattles, and many others. Sometimes the names of the laws are different, but they are all pretty much the same in content.

One of the most important things to realize is just how important you mental attitude is towards success. How you put the laws into motion. Are you being positive and therefore attracting positive things, events and people into your life? Or are you being negative and therefore attracting negative things, events and people into your life?

Do you look at the events that happen and seek to learn from them and "spin" them into positive, even if superficially they might appear to be negative? Or do you wallow in your misfortune?

What choices are you making in your life?

What actions are you taking?

Action is crucial to achieving anything. You can think positively but for most of us ACTION will be required. Brian Tracy says being action oriented is one of the most important habits you can develop. A friend of mine, Erik Stafford AKA The Faster Webmaster, calls this the Law of Action.

(A little side note and plug for Erik-- Erik is awesome at taking action -- and if you want to know how to build a website, talk to him--go to his website to learn more...he can take even a raw, raw, newbie through the steps.)

Don't know how to do something? That's okay. Be open and you will find or learn the way. You will take action that proves you believe in it and the teachers or books or DVDs or...(you get the picture) that you need right then WILL come to you.

Success is 80% mental and only 20% technical. The 20% is necessary, but it is built on the 80%.

Hell Yes! or Hell No!

I have been struggling with whether or not I should do something (a specific thing...not just any ol' thing!) This thing is a good thing, has value, is probably a great opportunity...but for some reason I was hesitating.

I've been mulling this over in my mind...am I hesitating out of fear? What is going on...I respect the people involved...

Then this morning, "for no reason" (AKA Law of Attraction!) I pulled out some notes from a talk that Alan Cohen gave over a year ago.

When I read Alan's words and I got my answer:

If it isn't a "Hell Yes!"
Then it is a "Hell No!"
If you jump at all the "Hell No!s"
Then you don't have time for the "Hell Yes!s"

That is when I realized my biggest issue right now is TIME. I don't have TIME for everything I WANT to do. Maybe I have already been jumping at too many "Hell No!s" and I deserve to recognize when something is not a "Hell Yes!" and not jump at that, too!

Alan also reminded me that every leap of faith requires an action step, so when you respond to the Hell Yes! do the one thing that would signify that you truly believe in it!

I reserve the right to revisit this "thing" in the future. At that point perhaps it will be the right time for me to join in. For now I have new confidence that it is not. So I will take action on the things I'm already doing--and show my belief in them. And if I find that some of them are Hell No's I will have the courage to take the action of disengaging from them, too!

You Can Heal Your Life

If you haven't seen this movie yet, it is a MUST SEE!

Definitely get the extended version. Then in addition to the 90 minute movie you get 4 hours of bonus interviews with all the greats featured in the film.

Not to name-drop, but just a few are:
Louise Hay
Wayne Dyer
Cheryl Richardson
Esther Hicks

Also included are some great affirmations that you can watch, listen to, memorize...great on so many topics! Health, prosperity, valuing self...

How to Get Your Vibe Back Up

I have a couple books that I just love for getting my vibe back up. One of my favorites is Esther and Jerry Hicks' book "Ask and It is Given". They offer various tips (or "processes") that work to help you raise your vibration no matter where you are right now.

One of the points that I was reminded of the other day was that you may not be able to make huge leaps in vibe level. Just focus on feeling better.

Sometimes that is enough!

Affirmation for Health and Wealth

I received this affirmation from a friend of mine who got it from The Best Affirmations Workbook.

Affirmations have been an important tool for me...so I am happy to add this one which covers abundance and prosperity in terms of health and wealth to my repertoire.

I am a fat burning machine!
I grow more graceful and attractive every day!
Money flows effortlessly to me from both known and unknown sources!
Every day I find checks in my mailbox!
I always say yes to an opportunity.
I attract the most wonderful customers, and they refer their best contacts to my business!

Want to Help Others without Spending More Money?

Does part of you believe that there is enough to go around, but you are having trouble making ends meet? If you thought you could not help others because you only have enough to take care of yourself, the Universe has provided you with a way to do both!

ServeNation.com is a nonprofit that allows consumers to give back to local and national nonprofits without spending extra money. For some people this is a critical component.

Right now the number of participating non-profits is limited, but go to ServeNation.com to read more about the program. You can purchase gift cards to use for yourself or to give to others. You get the full face value of the gift card and the nonprofit agency of your choice gets up to 8% of that face value as a donation. Serve Nation does not take any fees--nor is there any shipping or handling charge!

Ready to buy a gift card--this link takes you to all the organizations that are participating at this time, listed in alphabetical order. Click on the organization that you want to support and you will be taken to a page with the various gift cards that you can purchase.

For example, you might find cards for grocery stores, movies, hotels, even Starbucks! Buy cards for places you shop anyway and help out a great cause or buy some gift cards to give as gifts for the holidays and you are giving in two ways!

If your favorite charity is not on the ServeNation directory, give that nonprofit a heads up. They can join the program!

Gift of Beauty this Morning

No dreams from of my father last night, however I woke up a bit earlier than usual. I puttered around and then went to the kitchen to get my morning lemon drink.

In the kitchen I was greeted by the most gorgeous sunrise! I stood there drinking my lemon and drinking in the beauty.

What a wonderful gift. Thanks to the Universe! A great way to start my day!

(To learn more about my daily lemon drink, check out my blog on how I've lost 100 pounds!)

Life and Death

A family friend died yesterday morning.

I feel quite grateful that I got to see her less than 2 weeks ago.

She lived next door to my mother, and as I was visiting my mom for her birthday I got a chance to get in a quick visit with this vibrant lady.

She was diagnosed with cancer just this summer while I was out helping my mom rebound from hip replacement surgery.

To be honest, I thought she had it licked.

For whatever reason, she did not. I was feeling pretty sad about it.

Well this morning in the wee hours I had a dream (?) and she came to me and let me know that she was alright.

Funny, I never had any of these dreams after my father died. Maybe I did and perhaps I was in too deep of mourning to be able to receive them.

Anyway, in the dream I saw her and gave her a big hug. Other people were there and gave me the strangest look, because of course there was "no one" there. I was surprised and looked around and she was gone. Then I realized that she was dead so I could not have possibly hugged her...so I asked everyone else "who did I just hug?" I KNEW I had hugged a living breathing person--I could feel her.

I like that idea--we can hug and love people and feel their presence now and in the future. Maybe tonight I'll be able to give my dad another hug.

Getting Energy From the Universe

Today I got a wonderful shot of energy from the Universe.

Across the street from my house is a pasture that during the winter is home to about 30 head of horses. I love watching them play. I always get a big smile across my face when I see them. For me horses symbolize abundance--abundance in energy, in life, in joy, and in space.

This morning I walked over with some small apples I had leftover from visiting my brother. I had used the bigger ones and made myself a treat and decided the tiny ones were too small to make the effort worthwhile. So I brought my abundant supply of apples and some carrots over to the horses.

Of course they loved the treats! The horses got loving, great rubs and some nice eats. And I got to enjoy feeling their soft lips and warm, furry bodies. What a marvelous energy exchange.

If there aren't horses in your neighborhood, what in abundance in the universe can YOU get energy from--and give too?

Letting Go

I was reminded several times in the past few days the importance of letting go.

Sometimes it is soooo much easier said than done!

For me the biggest area for letting go is around choices other people are making. Of course, I believe that I know what is best for them (!) Seriously, I believe that most of the time I do attempt to provide information and let folks come to their own conclusions. That being said, when people we love (in this case, my mother) are not taking care of themselves I have found it to be challenging to just "let go".

My life coach talked to me quite a bit about it yesterday.

Then this morning I read a Go Gratitude post from Saturday--it was about letting go. I was a bit behind in reading these posts and the timing was impeccable! Law of Attraction at work!

In addition to that, every morning I pull a card from T Harv Eker's Secrets of the Millionaire Mind Cards and today I pulled "Learn to Live In Your Higher Self".

This card goes on to say

Respond to all situations from your love-based 'higher' self rather than reacting from your fear-based 'lower' self. You'll not only be happier, you'll get richer, too.

I really came to realize that the reason I was having so much trouble letting go in this matter was because I was afraid of what the outcome might be. The truth is I don't know what the outcome will be and my mother is on her own path and it is not my place to judge or "fix" her. It is my job to love her--to come from my higher self.

So thanks to my coach Dr. Linda, Go Gratitude, Harv and the Universe!

Money is an Exchange of Energy

Money has no meaning except for what we decide to give it. By itself, money is just another piece of paper.

So if you are going to give money power, know that is your choice.

You can change how you think about money. If you haven't read The Secrets of the Millionaire Mind, by T. Harv Eker, I strongly recommend it. Harv gives you tools to break your old patterns about money and open you up to the abundance there is in life!

Money is an exchange--call it of energy or of services, it doesn't really matter. Money is really a tool to make bartering easier! Instead of swapping a chicken for a doctor's advise, we pay with money, but it is really the same principle.

Grateful for Past Experiences

Like most people, not every experience I have had was positive. Some were extremely challenging, painful, dangerous and even life-threatening.

While going through those sorts of events, it is difficult to feel grateful for the experience.

Time is indeed the great healer, and down the road the experience is put into perspective. Oh, it still might have been an awful experience, but it has somehow been a part of getting me to where I am today--the person I am today. And I like who I am, so I am grateful for all those experiences.

If life had been always easy, I wouldn't have developed some of the strengths I have. If I had not had challenges I would not have learned how to bounce back. If I'd always had all the money I wanted I might not have learned to appreciate it and be grateful for it.

There are definitely experiences I would not wish on anyone. And for those who are going through them now, I am sorry for the difficult time you are having. Please know that it will get better, if you let it.

From this place I can now see a pattern that has been woven from the events in my life, the paths I have taken and the choices I have made. It is a beautiful tapestry that I'm creating. Some of the "least attractive" parts when combined with the rest are truly what make this life a work of art.

How Can I Attract More Money Into My Life

It may not be all about the money, but as I've said before, money is a measurable thing and so it is a way to practice your attraction skills.

So how do you attract more?

One of the first things to do is to be grateful for what you have. Keep a gratitude log--fill it will all the things you are grateful for, not just money. By being grateful we open ourselves up for receiving more.

Notice what you have, find and attract. Value every penny. T Harv Eker teaches us to pick up that penny on the ground and say "I am a money magnet, thank you, thank you, thank you!" I agree with that philosophy. If we don't appreciate what we have and what comes our way, why should the universe send us any more?

Another step is to notice when you have the opportunity to expand what your money will acquire. Is there a sale going on for something that you need or want? Did you get a coupon in the mail for something that you'd like to have? Or did you find a coupon in the paper for a favorite food item? Have you gotten a gift certificate?

These are all examples of abundance and money flowing to you. Learn to recognize them and appreciate them. Along with your gratitude log, track these gifts.

Michael Losier refers to an evidence log--where you track the evidence of abundance. This is a great place to write down the penny you found, the coupon you used, the coffee someone bought for you. In addition, write down anything else that is abundant that you see--it doesn't have to be about money.

The idea is to reinforce in our minds that there is indeed abundance in the world. Think of all the grains of sand on the beach...and all the beaches in the world...the waves in the ocean...the leaves on the trees...the blades of grass...the clouds in the sky...you get the picture!!

Then remember to be grateful and say "There is abundance in the world. I am abundant!"

Getting Clear on What I Want cont'd

Yesterday we talked about noticing what we don't want in order to get clear on what we do want

Another way to use this tool is to apply it to a specific area in our lives.

Michael Losier, another great teacher of the Law of Attraction calls it Clarity Through Contrast. It is pretty much the same idea, but with more direction.

Instead of looking at experiences in general that you don't want to have in your life, Michael directs you to think about a specific area in your life where you are not getting the results you want.

Whether you want to change your financial situation, your love life, your job, your house, your family life, etc, you can use this tool to open the way for the Law of Attraction to respond.

So, if I want to attract my dream house, but I'm not exactly sure what that would be, I would start by writing down what I do not want. This may be something that I have had in homes before, or things I see in homes of friends or family members, or things that I see when I've toured open houses. It might be about the yard or the kitchen. The size of the rooms. The number of stairs. Oh, no master on the main floor. So I quickly write down with as little emotion as possible the things that I do not want in my dream house. When I have finally exhausted my list, I then start to write the opposite. This is what I DO want. So if not having a master bedroom on the main floor was on my don't want list, obviously it will go on the side of what I do want.

I continue to write statements that describe what I do want, now that I'm clear on what I don't want.

Again, when I'm done with the list, the original list has served its purpose and I don't have to look at it again. I want to give my attention and energy to the things I DO want.

The mistake a lot of people make is they put the list away somewhere. Read the list of things you do want. Read it daily. Get excited about it. If you want to make changes to it, that's fine. Refine it. By giving it attention you are inviting Law of Attraction in and giving it clear direction and you are much more apt to get what you want--and get it more quickly.

Getting Clear on What I Want

Not sure what you DO want...okay, do you know what you don't want? Start there.

Louise Hay, wrote many years ago that you should write down a list of the things you don't want. This is not to dwell on those items--it is to help you clarify from that list what it is you do want.

So as your day goes along and you notice things that you wish were different, make a mental note of them. That night at home, write a list of the things you saw or experienced that you didn't like. Don't put a lot of emotion into this list, be as objective as you can. These are things that I am not wanting in my life.

Got that list? Great. Now read each item and ask yourself, if this is what I don't want, what do I want? Now write down that. Give it as much detail and emotion as you want. Go through your entire list until you now have two lists. Fold up the list of things you don't want...it has now served its purpose.

Focus your attention on the list of things you do want.

By placing your attention on the things you do want in your life you are opening the door for Law of Attraction to bring those things to you.

What Do I Want

I come back to this topic from time to time because it is a huge factor in attracting the "good stuff" into our lives--what is it that I want? What is "the good stuff" mean to me?

For each of us the answer will be different. Some people have no trouble knowing what they want. Others say they are quite content with what they have. Neither is wrong or bad.

The problem comes when we say we want more, more love, more health, more money, a better job, more fun, whatever the "more" is. Then it is crucial that we know what we want.

The getting clear on what we want is for us. By being more clear than we are clearing the path for the universe to provide exactly what it is we want.

If you say you want more and yet you say you are content with what you have, you are canceling the first out with the second. The net result is no change.

Check in tomorrow to see how to get clear on what you want.

Law of Attraction at Work

Today I was watching a presentation by Buzz Aldrin, the second person to walk on the moon. There was no particular reason for my watching this presentation today. I had lots of options.

I chose Buzz Aldrin from the myriad of options available to me.

Less than 30 minutes after I finished the video, I brought in the paper. I typically glance through to see what is happening in our area.

What did I find as I scanned through the paper? Two photos of Buzz Aldrin!

Coincidence? Serendipity? Those are words that describe the Law of Attraction at work!

I was thinking about Buzz Aldrin and got the opportunity to learn more about him...it will be interesting to see what other things I bring into my life today.

Feeling Gratitude

This mini meditation is from our friends at Go Gratitude and the World Gratitude Gathering. Keep in mind it is about the feeling, not any specific words. Focus on what YOU are grateful for now in your life.

Focus on Gratitude just before drifting to sleep, and immediately upon awakening. Beyond words, allow this source force energy-in-motion (emotion) to flood each cell in your body, feeling wave after wave of Gratitude immersing you in an energetic elixir of

timeless NOW.

Let go, release, and breathe deeply.

Ahhhhhhh .......

As you drift in and out ...

Giving and receiving ...

Pure Gratitude for NOW.

Forget wondering how long is long enough ~ for Gratitude IS.

Recognizing Abundance

I was reminded recently how important it is to recognize when we experience abundance in our lives.

Being quite aware of that yesterday I noticed several bits of financial abundance that came to me during the day.

First, as I was on my morning walk I knew that I would find a penny--and I did! Hmmm, maybe I should be thinking about finding a silver dollar! Seriously, I'm grateful for every penny (and dollar) so that was a great way to start the day.

Later in the day I was in downtown Denver for a meeting and had to find a place to park. I had located several garages, the closest would cost me $12, others were in the $6 range. I decided we would find a great, reasonably priced parking space. Lo and behold, a metered spot was open right where we wanted to be and for only $1.25 we got to park in the perfect spot!

We went to dinner with a friend and we were going to offer to pay for the meal, but before we could offer, our friend did. When we told him that we had intended to pay he declined--so we had a fantastic gift of a wonderful dinner with great company!

I am abundant! Let's see what today brings!!!

Go Gratitude

Feeling grateful for what we have is one of the best ways to attract more things to be grateful for.

The folks at Go Gratitude are about to start their 2nd World Gratitude Gathering which evolved from the Go Gratitude experiment, becoming a full experience.

Their mission is to share joy, gathering family and assisting others to realize dreams through gratitude.

The gratitude experience begins on Oct. 1, 2008 (That's this Wednesday) and provides a new series of 42 messages. The original 42 Go Gratitude messages are now available in an eBook.

The benefits and results from the World Gratitude experience include gaining awareness to your life purpose, aligning with Universal Energy, mastering Letting Go (go with the flow), manifesting your desires, raising you level of health and sense of self-worth.

Each participant makes 9 agreements:

1. I agree that a world of Love and Gratitude begins with me. I choose to be a conscious mirror and model of the change I wish to see in the world.
   
   
2. I agree to consciously set an intention for manifesting something miraculous in my life throughout this process.
   
   
3. I agree to tap into Gratitude on a daily basis and as much as possible in every waking moment. I know that the rewards of doing so flow through and extend beyond me, strengthening the collective field of Gratitude from which we may all derive benefit.
   
   
4. I agree to be a consistently uplifting inspiration in all my interactions in World Gratitude. I commit to see and mirror back the greatness of each soul who crosses my path. I choose to discover and nurture the light within so that it may shine forth to others and magnify their life.
   
   
5. I agree to honor each individual's right to choose their own belief system and life path.
   
   
6. I agree to be open to both give and receive within this community. In all my dealings, I seek win-win, mutually edifying interactions and transactions.
   
   
7. I agree to be my word in my exchanges with others. I realize that my personal influence is magnified to the degree I am able to keep my word with myself and others. If something comes up and I decide to change what I had agreed upon, then I agree to make that communication as soon as possible to the affected party.
   
   
8. I agree to love and enjoy my life as much as possible!
   
   
9. And, last but certainly not least, I agree to be Grateful for ME!

Learn more about the World Gratitude experience and join this group today--they operate on a donation basis, so check it out for free and then contribute as you feel is appropriate.

Why Haven't I Gotten What I Want Part 4

Some people have been critical of the movie, The Secret, saying it talks about money and things too much. They'll say "money can't buy happiness" and some will say "money isn't important."

In The Secret, they discuss using the Law of Attraction for health and relationships, not just money and things.

It is certainly true that money doesn't buy happiness, but money in today's world is important! And it is something that pretty much everyone can understand and relate to. Money is quantifiable and money is not reflective of a specific taste thereby making it very universal.

If you are someone who has no use for money that is fine. Then don't put thoughts of money in your pan "A". It is your pan--put in it what YOU want. Be aware of not putting negative thoughts in your pan "A". If you fill your pan with negative thoughts about money then you are putting in negative thoughts and the Universe will respond with negative experiences.

So fill your pan with thoughts of peace, happiness, love, whatever, and leave the criticisms out all together. Don't close the flow of what you do want in your life by being critical of what other people want.

Changing What I put in Pan "A"

In our series on "Why Don't I have What I Want?" We have determined that we have actually weighted our scale with the thoughts of what we do not want. So how do we change that? How do we fill our pan with thoughts of what we do want?

First, be aware of what you are putting in your pan. Some people are dogmatic in their approach to this and will tell you is you say "I want ________" then you are reinforcing lack (or wanting) of the desire, not the having of it. The bottom line is the emotion behind the words, not the words themselves. If it is easier for you to start off by carefully choosing your words when talking about your point of desire then do that.

However, I find many people who follow the dogmatic approach and still don't have success. How come? They are saying all the right words, but the feelings aren't there! For every positive statement or affirmation they are saying, their inner voice is shouting back 3 or 4 negative ones--as straight forward as "that's not true" or "you liar" or "oh right, don't you wish". Or they are feeling a sense of longing for or pining for the desire. This longing or pining is really an admission of lacking it.

So in this case, good words or not, you are filling pan A with feelings of lack. So again, I will encourage you to do things that bring you the feeling of having that desired outcome or object.

If you want a new car--cut out pictures of it, take it out for a test drive, take a photo of yourself in it, visualize yourself in it--driving it, owning it. See it parked in your driveway or your garage. By filling pan "A" with the joyful feelings of owning that car, pan "B" gets filled with the Universe's response to give you more opportunities to feel that--including actually getting that car!

Remember, the Universe is blindfolded. She doesn't know if you actually already have the car or if you are just pretending. She only feels to what you are feeling and responds accordingly.

While you are practicing this (because it does take some practice--most of us have drummed daydreaming out of our lives and aren't used to imagining any more) if you find that you are contradicting you positive thoughts with feelings of disbelief or lack, play with it and be gentle on yourself. Ask yourself, what if it were true? wouldn't it be nice if it were true? and use that as a starting point.

Will your results be instantaneous? Probably not! Whether your thoughts are positive or negative you will most likely experience a delay. It isn't a single thought that is going to bring you the car--it is the overall balance of thoughts. So keep it up and be open to receiving!

Why Haven't I Gotten What I Want Part 2

Another visual is an old-fashioned scale, with two pans. One side (pan "A") holds the item to be weighed--the item you want to buy for example. The other side (pan "B") holds the objective weights.

Now envision Lady Liberty blindfolded holding the scales, like the Scales of Justice but here they are the Scales of Attraction!

The contents in pan "A" are whatever you put in, whatever you desire. The objective weights represent the response in direct proportion to whatever you put in pan "A". Lady Liberty is the Universe. She is blindfolded because she doesn't see what you put in pan A; she doesn't judge what you put in pan "A", her job is only to respond.

So if you say you want a relationship but you fill pan "A" with thoughts of "I don't have a partner", "what is wrong with me", "why am I alone", "no one wants to date me", "I'm not good enough", etc, the Universe will fill pan "B" with experiences that match what you put in. Providing you with more opportunities to experience those feelings of loneliness.

Check in tomorrow to see how you can change what you are putting in pan "A".

Why Haven't I Gotten What I Want

So you are clear on what it is you want. Awesome.

How come it isn't here yet?

Imagine a teeter-totter, like in the school yard.

The center point (the fulcrum if you want the technical term) is what we say we want. It doesn't matter what that is--more money, a great relationship, a better job, improved health....

On one side sits all our thoughts and feelings about having the object of our desire.

On the other side sits all our thoughts and feelings about the lack of the object of our desire (the not having it.)

Take a look at your teeter-totter. Which side has the bigger stack? For many of us, the side that is stacked higher is filled with thoughts and feelings about not having.

The side with the bigger stack has more energy and we attract more of that. This is the basic principle of the Law of Attraction.

I'll use money as an example because pretty much everyone can relate. Even if you don't want more money now, there probably was a time when you could use a little more.

When we give more energy or weight to the lack of money (our debt, the bills, how will I pay for the kids' braces, I can't afford that, etc) than to the having money we will actually attract more of the lack of money.

That is why great teachers encourage you to do what you can to get the feelings of having that object you desire. By generating those feelings of abundance you are stacking the teeter-totter in your favor!

Once you start to tip it in your favor, the Universe will start to bring you what you want instead of what you don't want.

Are You Clear About What You Want?

You don't have to tell the Universe over and over what you want. Repeatedly stating what we want is for US not the UNIVERSE.

This helps us to become more and more clear about what we want. It is a way to hone in on the specifics, like zooming in with a camera, getting tighter and tighter on the image, from the broad vista to the single blade of grass.

If you are not clear on what you want, how can the Universe bring it to you?

Get clear on what exactly it is you want. What does that feel like? And then be open and ready to receive it.

Wisdom comes by Living Life Intended for You

Wisdom comes only when you stop looking for it and start truly living the life the Creator intended for you.
-- Lelia Fisher

There are many things that block us from wisdom such as selfishness, secrets, hate, anger, jealousy and judgments. Another thing that can block us from wisdom is trying too hard or wishing something would happen. Wishing implies doubt and trying implies control. We need to let go of these things. We need to abandon ourselves to the Creator. As soon as we surrender everything, the wisdom starts to flow. The Elders know how to help us with this. Just ask them.

My Great Spirit, today I surrender my life and my will to Your care.

Thanks to White Bison for this great lesson. If you like this and would like to see more, contact White Bison to subscribe to the Elder's Meditation of the Day.

Peace in the Park

This festival was a very nice expression of peace. While there were some people who expressed specific political points of view, overall it was really about peace in all forms.

There was information about ways to volunteer to help people around the world--through avenues such as the Peace Corps and through purchasing fair trade items made by people in Africa or South America.

Students there helped dispel the idea that our looks are an accurate reflection of who we are and our inherit "goodness" or lack thereof.

Musicians performed on the "lilypad" stage and around the lagoon. A Native American drummer on one side and and international dance group with smaller drums on the other.

Chalk artists of all ages created a sidewalk display of peace while others contributed to peace quilts and weavings.

Excellent weather added to the experience. Next year may it grow even larger!

Alternative Meditations for Compassion

Yesterday we covered a standard meditation for compassion.

Using the same process, we can offer meditations that will help ourselves and the world in general. One of the things that I like to do is word phrases in the positive. Any thought that you would have for yourself and that you can wish for the world works.

In other words, this is not the time to meditate on getting a new Mercedes! Nothing wrong with the Mercedes--it just may not be what everyone needs.

So, think universal. Peace. Love. Joy. Health. Vitality.

May I have peace in my heart. May I project peace in the world.

May I experience love and freedom.

May I feel great joy. May I be joyful in all I do.

May I have abundant health and happiness.

Use any of these as is, or as starting points. There are no real rules, no right or wrong. Keep the thoughts simple. The point is to have something that you can easily repeat and feel in your heart.

And breathe!

Meditation for Compassion

Meditation is typically used to clear the mind of all thought. It can also be used to increase positive energy by focusing on positive thoughts.

Since yesterday was an anniversary of a horrible day in the eyes of most of the world, I thought it would be a good time to talk about how to meditate to increase compassion in ourselves.

If you don't think you can meditate, you may be surprised at your ability to do this type of meditation. Because you are not trying to empty your mind but instead are focusing on a series of thoughts, it can be much easier than you might imagine.

Set aside about 15 minutes to start. You can gradually increase the time as it gets easier for you.

Get into comfortable clothes and then get into a comfortable position. Some people like to lie down, but if you tend to fall asleep when lying down then try a seated position. Be sure your back is supported, you don't want to strain or slouch. Comfort is very important.

To begin, take a few deep breaths. You can close your eyes or leave them open just a little bit. Now think about someone that you care about. Bring his or her face to your mind--say their name if that helps. When you have them clearly in your mind and in your heart, you will silently say some compassionate phrases.

These are some standard phrases used, but feel free to alter them to fit your personality or desires: May you be free of pain and sorrow. May you be well and happy.

Repeat the phrases several times slowly. Remember to take some deep breaths.

Especially in the beginning, your mind may wander. That's okay, be gentle on yourself. Notice it and let it go, and go back to the compassion phrases.

After a minute or two, focus the compassion phrase on yourself: May I be free of pain and sorrow. May I be well and happy.

Repeat the phrases several times slowly, remembering to take deep breaths.

Allow yourself to really feel the compassion towards yourself that you felt towards the person you had in mind in the beginning. For some of us, this is the biggest challenge of the exercise! The ability to be truly compassionate to all, includes compassion towards self.

After several minutes, focus on a person you know and who is not your easiest relationship. It could be a neighbor, a co-worker, one of the kids...someone who challenges you in feeling compassion at times.

Get that person's face in your mind and heart and repeat the compassion phrases, directed towards them. Breathing deeply and repeating the phrases slowly.

Now think of someone you interact with only superficially--you don't have to know their name--just picture their face and offer the compassion phrases to them. Keep breathing and slowly repeating the words.

The meditation ends by sending the compassion phrases to the entire world. All people, everywhere. All animals. All plants. All life forms.

May all beings be free of pain and sorrow. May all be well and happy.

September 11 Remembered

I remember where I was when I got the call that the World Trade Center had been hit. I was working hard, putting in electricity and installing a floor so we would have a well lit, spacious storage area.

It was hot work. I'm not sure what made us answer the phone but when we did, we became cold to the core.

It truly was one of the few life-changing experiences of my life. A memory that will last a lifetime. Inconceivable, yet it happened.

As I reflect back on that day, I know more than ever that Peace, Understanding and Compassion are more important than any one belief--whether that is political or religious.

There is so much more that unites us than separates us. A few months later my mother was called to action by the Red Cross. She worked at Ground Zero and helped people get back some sense of normalcy in their lives. She was struck at the outpouring of support and love that she felt while she was there. Even out of great tragedy and loss, the human spirit of generosity and kindness still prevails.

Tomorrow I'll talk about a specific exercise to help us increase our level of compassion. For today, let's honor those who lost their lives, those who survived and helped, and keep a place of peace in our hearts for all people. By being peace in ourselves we offer the best opportunity for peace to be here on earth.

Peace Rally

2nd Annual Peace in the Park festival this Saturday, Sept. 13 noon-5pm, Loveland, Colorado, Civic Center Park.

In the movie, "The Secret", Hale Dwoskin, the creator of the Sedona Method, said if you are against war be pro-peace.

At our core, every human being contains the seed for world peace within them

A woman in my town is definitely demonstrating that she has more than just a seed within her! Nancy Kain organized the first Peace in the Park festival in Loveland, Colorado last year and over 500 people showed up.

Kain, who studied renowned peace activist hopes to teach kids about peace--lessons they can put to use on the playground to combat bullying.

Far from being a political event, this is a family festival promoting peaceful solutions to conflict.

Peace starts within and grows one person at a time.

Is Suffering Good or Necessary

Some people and religions teach that suffering is a virtue. The Law of Attraction, which is neutral, will just provide you more of what you focus on, so if you want to suffer and think it is a good thing, then you will be given ample opportunity to suffer and see suffering in the world.

I prefer to think that JOY is a virtue. Think of Randy Pausch, the author of The Last Lecture, who died from pancreatic cancer this summer. His philosophy was one of joy. He created a great image by saying you can choose to be a Tigger or an Eyeore. It is up to you.

I think the world could use more Tiggers. I will be working on my Tigger-tude!

*If you haven't see the Last Lecture, be sure to click the link. It is incredible!

Pray and Know You Have Been Heard

It is not necessary for us to worry about our prayers (or affirmations) coming true. It is not our job to worry about how they will come true.

It is for us to say our prayers or our affirmations and then to know that they have been heard.

The Universe (Source, God, whatever term you choose to use) hears our prayers and responds.

Being Open to Abundance

To me, abundance is not merely financial. It refers to an attitude that spills over to everything that we do. By being open to abundance, I am open to time, energy, joy, love, beauty, simplicity and whatever else I decide I want to experience in my life.

I had to file some documents for one of my businesses with the Secretary of State's office, and have been putting it off (and off and off!) I had this memory that while it was easy to submit the documents online, there were lots of attachments and supporting docs that I had to prepare.

I think I was practicing abundance as in "having lots to do" in regards to this.

This morning, I was reading in Ask and It Is Given, a process to help raise my vibration about this task, so that I was open to the abundance of the universe, rather than creating resistance with my dread. I chose the "Focus Wheel Process". Being very aware of what I did not want (a difficult, long, tedious, stressful process) I then proceeded to write what I did want. I wrote things like how simple it is to file online, how nice it is that the SOS sends reminders that these docs need to be filed, so I don't have to worry about missing deadlines, I don't have to do it all in one sitting...on and on I went around the wheel and by the end I was feeling really good about submitting my docs.

So, a few hours later, I'm at my computer ready to start the process and I review my wheel, and I start to read the SOS info. Instead of what I remembered to be the case, it was a very straight-forward form and I was easily done in less than 10 minutes!

I am so grateful that I was open to the teachings of Abraham, this morning in particular. I am so grateful that I chose to delay filing the forms from yesterday, because by doing so I was able to raise my vibration and be open to the ease of the process.

Did the filing procedure actually change from when I last looked? Or was I misremembering/misreading the information? Or was I over complicating things? I do not know, and I do not care! The simple fact is that it was easy and I have completed a task that was looming overhead. I now have that paperwork filed away and one less thing to do!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Open to Abundance

I had to call a company today to reschedule an event. I'd put this call off for a few days. When I spoke to one of their representatives two weeks ago I was told if I rescheduled I would be charged a (to me) significant fee. At that time I decided I would wait and see if maybe I would be able to make the event, even though I knew that the timing was not right for me.

After some reading and guidance this morning, I realized that the timing indeed was not right for me. I wanted to be able to attend this event when it would be most beneficial to me, and I did not want to pay a fee in order for the program to better fit my schedule.

Today, I set the intention that the call would go well, that I would not have to pay a fee. I thought about what I might say if they brought up the fee, but then I said to myself, that won't be necessary.

Before placing the call I took some deep breaths and got centered. I brought forth the feeling in myself that I have abundance and that the Universe is a giving place and that "all is well."

I called and was able to reschedule, no problem, no fee.

Take a Vacation

Drs. Roizen and Oz are at it again...a friend of mine was mentioning how she keeps losing vacation time because she just doesn't use it. So what does the Law of Attraction bring to me? An article by the aforementioned doctors talking about how important it is to use your vacation.

They reference an Expedia.com survey that estimates 465 million vacation days are lost by Americans. Never having had this issue, I was fascinated.

Unless you absolutely LOVE your job (and even for those who do) it is important to take those breaks. Your body actually ages faster if you don't (stress) and it doesn't help your mental state or your family and not even your employer. By taking time off--they suggest at least once or twice a year--helps slow the aging process as well as give you much needed psychological benefits.

It amazes me that when a topic comes up in my "circle" I frequently then see something in the local paper or a magazine that follows up on it. So, pass the word if you have friends like mine--or if you are like my friend--and TAKE A VACATION!

It is About Joy

Joy is going mainstream!

I think that everyone who has been doing any work in personal development knows how important it is to feel joy in their lives. It doesn't matter what we do for a living, it really matters how we do it. I don't mean how well we do it, necessarily, although we all want to be good at what we do. Really it is more important the attitude with which we do. In other words, it is the "being" over the "doing."

I mentioned a column by Michael Roizen, M.D. and Dr. Mehmet Oz, M.D. back on August 10. I kept that article because it had so many great points to it. They said that we can control our happiness (and isn't that good news to be happy about!) Another point they made was about getting together and treating yourself with friends and activities that feed your joy.

Even if you are not in the place where you want to be financially, it is important that you make "an investment in joy"--their words, not mine! They gave a couple examples, including going for a round of golf or spending time at the spa with a friend, and to not view that as a luxury. The friendship part is very important and the act of spending time doing something fun is also important.

True happiness is using your strengths to grow and meet your potential. And it's being grateful for what and who is around you.
--Dr. Roizen & Dr. Oz

One of the best exercises I ever learned was built on the second half of that definition. I write in a gratitude journal every night. I find it is a great way to reflect on my day and my life. I don't write a lot, but I note at least five things I am grateful for in my life.

I find it beneficial to write in complete sentences, I feel the emotion more that way. Feeling the gratitude is an important part of the process, rather than a rote exercise or another chore. I love the feeling I get as I think about the really great parts of my life and day. Sometimes I write about a bunch of really little things, like I saw a beautiful butterfly that brought a smile to my lips. Sometimes I will feel especially grateful for a physical task I was able to accomplish--being grateful for my strength and endurance. Other times I find myself grateful for the love I feel in my heart, or the love I feel coming to me from others. Some days I have been grateful that I have a comfortable bed and a roof over my head at night.

No matter what it is that I am grateful for, by writing it down at night I get to experience it for a second time that same day. And if I am feeling a bit down or like maybe I'm not in as good a place as I would like to be in my life, I can read in my gratitude journal and see the many, many things I have going for me in my life. Right now. As I am today.

Life is good!

Learning to Allow

I'm re-reading, Ask and It is Given. I'm in the middle of a big project right now and have found myself to not always have the best energy during the process. This book is helping me to refocus on the art of allowing. If you haven't read the book, I highly recommend it.

I actually have the CDs and the book and I like to listen to Jerry Hick's reading of the book while I read along. Then I frequently stop the audio and reread sections.

I have a tendency to drive through on projects...go, go, go, get 'er done. That can be efficient in a sense and I never had an employer complain. Now that I work for myself I find that there can be a disadvantage to it. Since my office is in my house, it is quite easy for me to want to work 24/7...and have the ability to do it.

That means the rest of my life could fall into major disarray. Of course that is not the way to live a balanced life. It isn't good for health for one. And it isn't good to let all the other projects and people in my life fall to the way side while I focus entirely on one aspect of my life. Not only is it not good for the rest of your life, it can lead to burnout and fatigue in the work arena too. So, while in the short term it may be a benefit at work in the long run it isn't.

The separation of work from home life when you physically go from one building to your home, can make for a healthy break. Esther and Jerry Hicks and Abraham help me to work through some of the challenges I am facing at the moment.

Today I came back from my morning walk and I just wasn't in a super positive energy. A few days ago I would have forced myself to go into the office and work, because it was time to. This morning I decided to read some more in the book, even though I had already had my morning reading session. I read some of the exercises in the book which are to help you bring your vibration / attraction level up. It really helped a lot and I was able to be a much more positive and I believe productive worker for the rest of the day.

There was an exercise, or "game", that I read the other day, called "The Rampage of Appreciation" which I really liked. For each of the exercises/processes/games there is a emotional scale level that the exercise is most suited for. When I read the "Rampage of Appreciation", I didn't really believe it...I thought I would be able to apply that exercise any time. Well, I found out this morning that I was wrong and Abraham was right (imagine that!) I tried to apply the game today and I just couldn't hold my vibration level up. That was what sent me back to my library to read some more, to see if I could find a different game that would work to bring my level up.

I found several that will work. Now my challenge will be to start actually practicing them so that I gain the skills to make it easier and easier.

Olympic Inspiration Part 2

The determination of the athletes who made it to the Olympics is incredible. Some of them persevered despite huge odds and obstacles. They knew what they wanted to achieve and they held the vision and they did it.

Their goal was not to medal. For these athletes, attending the Games and participating was what they set their sights on.

They may be the "big fish" back home. They may be from a land that is torn apart by war or politics or religion. They might not even have training facilities that every town in the USA has. And still they believed. They believed in the message of the Olympics--competition in sport can bring peace and understanding to the world.

So whether it is "Stany the Stingray" who finished last in the 50 meter freestyle--but was thrilled to attend and to compete--or the Iranian basketball team's presence for the first time since 1948, or athletes who literally dodge bullets to train, or the women who competed not wearing the latest technological breakthroughs but wearing traditional headscarves, these competitors were there for themselves and to represent their countries. Not for glory and certainly not for financial gain, their efforts rarely made television coverage, it is unlikely they'll get any commercial endorsements. Their countrymen may never know they were even there. But they were there. Fulfilling their vision. These are some true Olympians.

May I always remember both the determination they had to achieve their goal and the pleasure they took in the participating.

Olympic Inspirations

As a former swimmer, I love watching the Olympics, especially the swimming events.

As a student of The Law of Attraction and the power of thought, I was struck by the frequent references Michael Phelps made to having the vision of winning. He and his coach made the plan, took the actions necessary to achieve the plan and always had the belief that it was possible.

In fact, Coach Bob Bowman was the one who started the who process off by seeing (and believing) in Michael at age 11, a potentially great swimmer.

Dara Torres also provided inspiration for the power of our intentions. When asked what she would tell her daughter about this Olympic experience, she said "don't let your age define your goals." Wow.

How often do we listen to the "conventional wisdom" that says we can no longer do something because we have reached 'that' age (whatever 'that' age is")?

Both of these fantastic athletes have super strong belief in self and their abilities. They also take the steps needed to back up those beliefs. And the results flow to them.

Mindset and Making Life Changes

I have used a lot of Mindset tools. They have helped to me completely change my life. In so many ways.

Without them, I am sure I would still be working for someone else instead of being self-employed. I wouldn't have taken the leap because it wasn't in the training I got growing up. I was taught that to be "safe" you had to work for a big company.

Without changing my mindset I would never have bought real estate other than my primary residence. It certainly was not the model I had at home.

With my old mindset, I would still be almost 300 pounds--or maybe I would be even more than that by now. I got there because I was trying to live the life I thought I "should" live...I was living for approval rather than for the joy of what I want in life.

I am not saying these things to complain about my upbringing or blame my parents or anything of the sort. My parents did a really good job--certainly the best they knew how to do. They weren't perfect, but then what human being is?

I'm just pointing out that what I call mindset tools have helped me change my life in multiple areas. Without making a change to ones mind, it is not possible to make permanent change in your life.

Change your thoughts and you change your world.
--Norman Vincent Peale (1898-1993)

Sometimes change requires physical effort. Mostly, I find it is emotional effort--which I think is even harder. I recently found that I was not practicing what I preached. I was "if not disgruntled, I was far from being gruntled" as an old friend used to say. Heck, I was disgruntled! And I think I was expecting someone else to pick me up out of it! Fortunately a friend pointed out to me the energy I was putting out to the universe. This led me to go back to some of the mindset tools I had successfully used in the past, but for whatever reason had let slide lately.

So yes, I have to physically read the books or listen to the audios or watch the DVDs or do the meditation and visualization. However, the biggest action I have to take is on my willingness and excitedness to take the action--my own attitude about it. If I chose to stay all "poop-y" the actions would not give me results because I wouldn't be open to them!

I have chosen to reopen my heart, mind and soul. I am back using the tools. I am seeing changes already. Guess some lessons are not learned with a single run through! I knew that, but it appears I needed a reminder!

Attraction and Action

The Law of Attraction does not absolve us from the responsibility of taking action. Affirmations and visualizations are great tools, but they may not be the only tools that you have to use.

Sometimes people misunderstand and think that the people on the Secret are saying that they only had to think about something and it came about. They only had to cut out a picture and put it on a vision board and voila, they had the house, the car, the life partner, whatever.

Especially in the beginning, this is far from the case. You will have to take some action. That is not a bad thing! And it doesn't mean that you should stop the affirmations, dream boards, etc.

On the contrary, they are all tools to get you where you are supposed to be going. The affirmations, visualizations, meditations my direct you on what action you are supposed to take. By following that action, perhaps you earn the money that you need to accomplish the goal you had (like buying that house.)

I believe that every event that happens in our life builds to create who we are today. No, I didn't have a perfect childhood, bad things can happen in people's lives. But ACTION by you can turn a bad situation around, or allow you to parlay the experience into something good for others, or get you into the position you need to be for all the "good stuff" to happen to you too.

So if you feel compelled to do something (as long as it is not harmful to yourself or others, and is legal) then perhaps this is the Universe telling you what action you need to take to fulfill your dreams. Trust the universe and let go...

Dr. Oz and Dr. Roizen say You Can Control Happiness

Unless you've been living under a rock, you have heard of Dr. Mehmet Oz, a regular contributor to the Oprah show (for those of you who haven't heard of him, check out Oprah's webiste for more info.)

Our local paper, and probably yours too, has started carrying a weekly column by Dr. Oz and his business partner, Dr. Michael Roizen. In today's column they are discussing Happiness. The title, "Happiness can't wait, and you can control it" just about says it all!

Some of the notes in the column are common sense, including being sure to eat healthy foods and get exercise and enough sleep. And simply remembering that you don't know what is going on in someone else's brain is a big help. The example they use is the "jerk" who cuts you off in traffic...rather than letting it get to you, consider that there may be some extenuating circumstance that you don't know about that is causing them to appear to be a jerk--for example they are rushing to the hospital because the woman is in labor. The old "walk in someone else's shoes" mantra can help us to, if not remain calm, regain calm more quickly.

Be sure to check out the doctors' website in addition to the Oprah link above!

The Secret Helps Me to Remember

I watched about half of The Secret again today. Every time I watch it, I see or hear something a bit different and learn something new. Or am reminded of something that I temporarily forgot. Today the Genie jumped out of the bottle at me...it got me to thinking about how many wishes would I make, if I were Aladdin.

Watching the movie also helps me to remember some of the things I am doing "right".

I have been working on remembering that the Law of Attraction responds to our feelings more than our thoughts. So when visualizing and saying my affirmations, I try to get into that space of openness and joy and feel like I already have what I am affirming.

I have also been focusing on my gratitude journal. If you don't have one yet, I strongly encourage you to start. It is such a simple and easy practice. I find that if I start to feel like things aren't going my way it just takes a moment of looking at some of my past entries to remember how fortunate I am. Being able to acknowledge that allows me to be open to even more blessings. Sort of a self-fulfilling prophecy...in a very, very good way!

Another thing that is a good practice, but they didn't mention in the movie, is taking little mini vacations. It was definitely time for a break, so we went away for a couple of days. Going somewhere beautiful really brought such a sense of wonder, awe and gratitude for being there. It also reminded me of just how gorgeous it is here. That is definitely something to be grateful for!

What Do You Want in a Home?

I was thinking about this as I read the paper today. As I frequently do, I was enjoying reading about houses that are available in the area.

I realized that the houses that were attracting me lately were much different from the houses I sought out only a year or two ago. Then I was constantly wanting to tour the million+ dollar homes. "For inspiration."

Sure, they were inspiring and beautiful. Some of them were also way over the top, in my opinion. Filled with all sorts of things that I don't need, or more importantly even want.

Now I have really thought about what I want in a home. That clarity is so powerful and joyful. And I am drawing that house to me. Not the million dollar house of someone else's dreams, or that would "look good", but the house that actually fits my wants and desires. It is much easier to get excited about a house and the prospect of moving, when the house is one that really, really speaks to you.

This is a great analogy for life in general. More thoughts on that another time!

Don't Pray For What You Don't Want

Kris Carr (of Crazy Sexy Cancer) says "worrying is praying for something you don't want." I agree and would add that fear (for me at least, a different but related emotion) is another way of praying for something you don't want.

This really hit home today when I was speaking to a guy about the state of the economy. He flat out said he is afraid. Now, one of his businesses is in real estate development. So a lot of people would think that he is right in being fearful.

However if you have studied Law of Attraction at all, through The Secret, SGR or any number of books and programs, you KNOW that strong emotions bring our thoughts to "life" faster than ever.

The key is to find something in the situation to be positive about. If there is no way that you can find something positive about it, then you must change the situation until you find something. It does not have to be huge. Find a little thing that you are excitedly positive about. Focus on that. Watch that come to you. And find another little thing to be positive about.

And keep the positive energy flowing your way.

It is All Good

Had a closing today, which was very exciting. There was actually supposed to be two closings today. One didn't happen. And that is OK.

You see, I found an error in the legal description. Since it was late in the day there was no way to get it corrected to be able to sign today.

We'll do it tomorrow, we were told.

Of course, we had other plans for tomorrow.

But it is all good--this will force us to be efficient in our dealings tomorrow so that we can get back in time for this closing. With the heat spell we have been under, efficiency is a very good thing! So we have our plans made for tomorrow, we know what we are doing, and it will get done and we will come back to corrected documents and sign and all will still be good!

It would have been possible to have gotten stressed or upset by this chain of events, but I walked into the meeting saying "all is well, everything is working out for my best and highest good", and the process was light and fun, filled with lots of laughter (and some serious notes of course). All in all a very pleasant experience.

Attracting Beanie Babies

I was talking to my business partner today about "niche" marketing online. I mentioned that it was important to find topics that are current so to appeal to a broad audience, and that it would be a good idea to avoid trends that had already come and gone. I used Beanie Babies as the example. Now, I have never collected Beanie Babies, don't know much about Beanie Babies, and actually hadn't thought about Beanie Babies in a long, long, very long time. Why Beanie Babies came to mind is beyond me. But it did.

Less than 2 hours later, I was taking a break. I decided to turn on the television to see what I had on TIVO for my viewing pleasure. Before I clicked the Now Playing button the live show came on. It happened to be Jeopardy. I decided that would be as good a break as any, so I stayed tuned. Within minutes of the TV being turned on, wouldn't you know there was an answer on the board, the question to which was "What are Beanie Babies?"

Moral of the story? Listen to your words, they have power to attract!

Keeping a Positive Mind

Remaining positive in challenging times can be, well, challenging!

It seems that it should be easy to be positive about money when you have it, think that you have energy and health when you do, and believe that people are good when you are treated well.

On the other hand, if you are faced with loss of home or job, an illness or debilitating injury, or if someone has stolen something of value from you or been just plain mean, it can be much more difficult to keep that positive attitude.

Affirmations are one of tools to help you in this challenge. When you are facing the challenges that life brings--and we all face them, perhaps to different degrees or in different areas--that is when we need to be positive the most.

What area is challenging you the most right now? Is it money? Is it health? Are you lonely? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you in pain? Feeling under appreciated?

Whatever it is, write an affirmation about it. Choose one item. The one that seems the "biggest" right now, the most stressful. What would you like to be feeling about that situation? What would feel good? And what can you actually believe right now, as a starting point?

For example, let's say you have a serious illness or injury (which I hope is not the case.) It might be too much to affirm "I have perfect health". Try a small step rather than a giant leap. For example, "I am open to healing for my body". Write that on a card or sticky note. Write it several times and put it up where you will see it.

And listen to your words when you talk to other people. I'm not telling you to lie to people about your condition, but be aware that when you speak of your illness in a negative way it will not facilitate your healing.

For example, I recently hurt my shoulder, as you may have heard. I caught myself referring to "my bad shoulder". I decided to change that right away. My shoulder is not "bad". My shoulder is in the process of healing and regaining strength and flexibility. When I think about it that way, it helps me to be gentle with myself and it, to do the things that I need to in order to facilitate the healing. By changing my words, I change my attitude which in turn changes my actions which affects my healing.