Money, Energy & Martin Luther King, Jr.

This week’s message comes from questions I was asked by a colleague. I invite questions from my readers that can be useful to those who read this blog. The subject this week is at the top of just about everyone’s list and something that seems to be coming up a lot in conversations I’ve had as of late: money.

This being Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, I wondered how money might relate to honoring his legacy and for those who continue to bring a voice to the disenfranchised. Well, since there are still those in power who use poverty as means of control over certain sections of society, and on the flipside having money gives us greater opportunity to do good in the world, I guess the messages below tie in quite nicely. It’s all about empowering ourselves and using that power to uplift those around us. If use altruistically it can help unite us as a global community and build a more positive future for the world. I’d say that’s a good thing.

Happy Birthday, Reverend King.

With Love.

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From Over There: 1.18.15 Weekly Focus

 Why are so many of us concerned about our financial well-being? Why does it seem to be an issue for just about everyone?

It is cultural. In your particular culture there is a mindset of the need to have more. Even if you are one who chooses to live outside of convention, there is still a cultural energy that surrounds you. This leaves one in a state of eternal lack, as if there can never be enough – no matter how much money one has, there is a fear of not enough.

Many hold onto the idea that money is outside of them and unattainable. Money is simply a form of energy exchange, and it is necessary to align with the divine perspective of money in order to break free of the binds of cultural mindset.

Can you speak on how to become aligned with the divine perspective of money? Why does it seem that some of us have a clear connection to it and others don’t?

It is not in whether one has a clear connection to this energy, rather it is the underlying beliefs one holds that builds their relationship with it. Money is simply energy activated by intent. What does it represent to you?  Does it represent achievement, love or happiness? Is it viewed as a mechanism of survival?  Do you give it authority over you, or allow those with large amounts of it to control you? Does the amount you receive make you feel inferior or superior to others? Give you a sense of entitlement? Or a sense of shame? Does it represent betrayal, abandonment, anger or resentment? When you think of money, what feelings arise? Being mindful of these thoughts, feelings and beliefs will help you understand the core of your relationship to this energy. It is through a dedication to stay conscious as these thoughts and feelings arise that will uncover beliefs that you may not have as part of your conscious awareness. It is in exposing these beliefs that one may rise above and begin to build a more positive and powerful relationship with money.

For money to be a positive influence in one’s life, it must be met with benevolent intent. It must be a source for creating a more empowered life and as a mechanism of support for oneself and others. When it is used as a way of controlling another or allowing oneself to be controlled by another, the relationship with money falls out of divine alignment. When one’s sense of self is controlled by how much money they have or do not have, then they have fallen out of divine alignment in their relationship with money. It is in perceiving money as an energy just like other types of energetic forces. All energetic forces are fueled by intention. The more empowered your thoughts around money, the more good it will bring to your life.    

Stand Up

The terrorist attacks and murders in Paris this last week have once again left most of us feeling devastated and outraged. Following this was an inspiring show of solidarity as thousands – from a diverse spectrum of spiritual and religious beliefs, including many Muslim – took to the streets in support of those who were killed. It shows that we can rise above these acts, even in the face of fear.

This week’s post is an excerpt from my upcoming book and it covers the act of bullying. The violence that was perpetrated at the hands of the terrorists is an act of bullying at it most extreme. This excerpt is more directed toward instances where we might feel pushed around by someone who chooses to use intimidation tactics in their daily interactions instead of playing fair. It’s something we all encounter at some point in our lives, though we can make ourselves better equipped to protect ourselves with a little shift in consciousness. We may not be able to stop global acts of terrorism, but we can at least defend ourselves and others in our day-to-day lives from where we stand right now.

Sending love to the 12 killed, to their families and to everyone affected by the Charlie Hedbo tragedy. Je suis Charlie.

With Love.

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From Over There: 1.11.15 Weekly Focus (excerpt from Channel Surfing)

 “Q: Can you speak to us about the act of bullying and how can someone rise above the pain – especially when they’re young and vulnerable?

A: This type of behavior occurs when the perpetrator only understands anger as the way to empowerment and value. These individuals lack a conscious connection to their true source of power – their spirit-self. They are cut off in such a way that they do not recognize themselves as the divine being that they are. They have forgotten this. The one who is acted upon has also lost touch with their divine self and is seen as weaker than the perpetrator, so therefore an easy target of the anger. It is through each individual finding their own value – especially value in their uniqueness – that renders the perpetrator ineffective. Only through fear do individuals prey upon the well-being of another. In the presence of love no such act can stand. When one loves and values oneself, they understand their value from the perspective of love, and through this perspective find no joy in bringing harm to others. It is through the desire to accept and appreciate one's uniqueness that one begins to build the true source of strength and power - the spirit.

I feel it necessary to add a side note here. The answers to this question may seem over simplified, and to our dense energetic existence they are, though it’s important to remember that in the world of Spirit, anything is possible and easily attainable. The answers are guidance to help you understand that in appreciating and valuing ourselves, we lower the risk of being the victim of bullying or assault. Someone who exudes confidence does not make an easy target. Though this isn’t always the case and sometimes we’re simply at the wrong place at the wrong time, or we are caught in the crossfire of someone else’s dispute. A good point to remember is that regardless of the trials or tribulations that may come your way, a good dose of self-love just makes life so much sweeter and those trials and tribulations more easily surmountable.”

Watch What You’re Stepping In

The word power can have either positive or negative connotations, depending on your definition of what it is. Though embracing true personal power – not a dictatorship-like hold over others – is one of the most positive things we can strive for in life. When we’re in our power we have greater confidence and are more apt to pursue those things that we’re good at and enjoy doing. We feel a sense of accomplishment and inspire others to go for what they want as well.

If we all fully stood in our power there would be no jealousy, back-biting, greediness, entitlement and most likely no horrible reality shows. Sounds good to me! And as Marianne Williamson so famously said, “There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so others won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine...”

So step on up, step on in, and shine!

With Love.

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From Over There: 1.4.15 Weekly Focus

Embrace your power. Do not apologize for it, nor shrink away from it. Stand up for yourself. Do so with compassion for both yourself and those around you. To stand in your power is to acknowledge your value and confidently use your talents. To recognize your unique strengths and use them to their fullest potential offers them as gifts to serve the world and fulfills your own happiness.

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Q: How can we confidently step into our own power, especially if we feel a bit unsure?

A: It is to focus on your strengths to uplift you. It is to recognize each individual’s own unique abilities and to not compare yourself with others. When one compares themselves to another – whether through feelings of inferiority or to instill a sense of superiority – it is a sign of self-directed disrespect. It devalues the individual and leaves them feeling separated from their true source and interconnectedness. Direct your focus on your talents. Use them and enjoy them for self-gratification and do not be discouraged by the opinion of others who may not understand or resonate with them. Sharing your gifts and enjoying the gifts of others is the ultimate expression of human potential.

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Thanks & Blessings!

At the End is the Beginning and the Beginning is the End

The New Year approaches and with that we often reflect back on the year that’s coming to a close. For myself, I’ve been more than happy to say “goodbye” to the years filled with challenges and have looked forward to the New Year as some sort of do-over. It feels doubly so and very symbolic, because very shortly after the beginning of the New Year my daughter and I celebrate our birthdays. A complete fresh start.

Funny thing is, when I look back over the years my big changes haven’t always occurred at the beginning or end of the year. It’s more about using the symbolism of this time to create change for myself. In other words, it’s a time to consciously choose a different way to approach something or stop procrastinating on getting going on a goal. It’s also a time to think about what you want to create in the year ahead.

The truth is we set goals and change our minds and course of direction all the time. And as this week’s message states, we can either use the concept of “beginning” and “end” to our advantage or disadvantage. It just depends on whether it’s being used as a mechanism to avoid something or motivate action.

So set your intentions, be kind to yourself, and get ready for the best year ever!

With Love.

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From Over There: 12.28.14 Weekly Focus

There is no beginning, nor end, only perception as such. Life extends before and beyond the physical.  Relationships change, and at times seemingly end, though since they have occurred are always part of your story and an ever present element of your evolution. It is the human need to categorize components of time that creates the perception of a beginning and an end. Life is cyclic.

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Q: Does it hinder us in any way to view life through beginnings and endings?

A. The perception of a beginning and an end can be helpful in one’s ability to move through painful situations or when moving toward achievement of a goal, as it gives a marker to see how far one has come through a process. When this perception is used as a means to avoid responsibility for one’s actions or to avoid the processing of pain, then the perception of a beginning or an end is counterproductive. To move on from a relationship or situation without processing through the pain or taking responsibility for the outcome is to avoid the potential wisdom gained from the experience. To begin a new relationship or situation without processing through the pain or taking responsibility for the outcome of that which came before risks repeating the experience. To understand the cyclical nature of existence is to honor all phases of life as valuable and to learn from the lessons each instance brings.  

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Thanks & Blessings!

Merry & Bright

For some of you this may come as a surprise, but for others it’s common sense: happiness is a choice. Yep, that’s right, a choice. This is not to say that once you make the conscious decision to be happy that your life is going to be all rainbows and lollipops – we do, of course, live on this dense, challenging planet – but you’ll be much better equipped to move through the difficult times when they do occur.

It’s all about perspective, and it’s a lesson that in many regards I believe I’m still learning. The bottom line is that the more you appreciate and value your life, the more life tends to give you back what you appreciate and find valuable. And being in this mindset makes those bad days pass much faster and the good days so much sweeter.

Take a moment and focus on those things in your life that bring you happiness and let that be your guidepost for pulling in more of the same. May all your days be merry and bright.

With Love.

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From Over There: 12.21.14 Weekly Focus

The way of happiness connects one with the light of the soul. Through this connection one understands their purpose, and forges a deeper awareness of how their actions affect them and those around them. There is no act so trivial that it passes without any influence. It is simply the level of individuals that are affected that may come into play. To choose the way of happiness is to affect one’s life through the soul’s light. The soul’s light is a joyous light. This is a joyous way for all.  

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Q: How can we choose happiness when we may be going through a challenging period?

A. It is first through choosing kindness toward the self, through compassion for the self and respectful acts upon the self. It is through these self directed practices that one has the capacity to truly be thoughtful of others. This leads to greater acceptance and appreciation for oneself and of those around them. This, in turn, diminishes critical judgment of the self and others. To be less judgmental is a liberating experience. It instills in one a sense of freedom, no matter one’s life circumstance. It is within this sense of freedom that one easily chooses the way of happiness.

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Thanks & Blessings!

Keep Your Motor Running

Around this time of year most of us tend to partake a little more freely in indulging. From social gatherings to the ubiquitous cookie, it can be hard to abstain. Add to that lack of sleep and the general chaos that ensues and it can take its toll. But as spirit says, staying alert to the messages our bodies give us will help alleviate some of the aftermath.

Our “vehicles” – as spirit so aptly refers to our physical selves – just needs a little attention and understanding to get through the day. I believe it’s perfectly fine to imbibe in holiday festivities as long as you approach it from a celebratory perspective and not one of stress. Let your spirit take the lead, have some fun, and get some rest when you need it. It’s all about balance.

Wishing you all a joyous and peaceful Holiday season – regardless if that pound cake adds a few extra pounds!

With Love.

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From Over There: 12.14.14 Weekly Focus

Be mindful of the care you give your vehicle and what is in its best interest. This is different for everyone as each has their own unique physiology and ancestral cellular sequences. There is no one way that benefits all. It is up to the individual to connect with their vehicle in order to understand its needs.

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Q: Can you tell us a little more about what it means to connect with our body or vehicle?

A. When one connects to the full components of the self then a deeper knowing of the importance of all aspects of self are realized. The vehicle houses the spirit. It is a blessed temple. It is to be revered for all it accomplishes. The mind articulates the functions of the vehicle, yet it is the spirit’s connection to the mind that brings awareness to what the vehicle requires to run sufficiently. It is to value all parts of the self that allows a deeper connection to the vehicle and a more peaceful mind.

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Thanks & Blessings!

What’s the Meaning of This?

Do you ever think about living a more meaningful life? What if I were to tell you that no matter your current situation, you already are? This week’s message came to me as one of the random thumps on the head I get now and then when I’m not actually asking for advice or trying to figure out my next move. I believe I was doing laundry at the time, and most likely grumbling to myself while doing it. And I was reminded – loud and clear – that even chores other mundane activities are pretty meaningful.

So next time you’re stuck in traffic or cleaning out the kitty litter box think about this: in each situation are moments of your very valuable life. Being stuck in traffic may not be your idea of a good time, but instead of stressing out there’s always the opportunity to crank up the stereo and sing your heart out. And cleaning your furry little friend’s port-a-potty means a happier companion, and most likely cleaner floors for you. I’d say that’s meaningful!

With Love.

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From Over There: 12.8.14 Weekly Focus

You ask for meaning in life, but is not each moment of life meaningful? To view each moment as meaningful brings a greater perception of value to the moment and a deeper appreciation of one’s life. Through this the foundation of gratitude one leads to a more fulfilling life.

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Q: So you’re saying that every moment has meaning? Even if doing something like laundry?

A. It is to find value in each moment that brings appreciation of life and an awareness of how one uses their time. Yes, even the mundane is meaningful. To bring meaning to the process of laundering clothes instills a sense of value in the process. The result of this process is clean, comfortable clothing. To find meaning in each moment gives one the opportunity to see these moments as precious gifts. It is to honor the present. Honoring the present allows one to appreciate the current circumstance and softens the frustration that comes when one is focusing solely on the future.

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Thanks & Blessings!