Poetry by Timogi

Timogi is a poet and designer of inspiring gifts for women. See her collection at www.timogidesigns.com .

April 03 2009 | Inspiring Stories / Poetry and Other Useful Articles and Power Boost: April 2009 | No Comments »

Getting Outside of the Box

by Diannia Baty

It has occurred to me lately that people are simply not thinking outside the box. We have a tendency to think about life from an old mode of what or how to overcome or solve a dilemma. If what has always worked before is not working now, it is time to change it.

In other words, if what you are looking at is not changing then change the way you look at it. If ever there was a time to change the way you think about things, this is it. There is no denying the fact that our world has changed. The only way to survive this change and do it magnificently is to change with it. Fighting against it will not work.

All around the world fortunes are being lost but also found. People are losing their homes to foreclosure. Many of you have lost your jobs and have no income. Some of you are sick and have no health insurance. Relationships are ending because of all the stress that is present. Crime is up because unfortunately some people have used this as a way out of the box. The universal question of “why am I here,” is sounding around the world. Rampant materialism is ending.

The reason there is a Starbucks on almost every corner is because we supported by our purchase gourmet coffee that is almost $4.00 a cup. If you bought one every day for a workweek it added up to an average of $24.00 a week or almost $100.00 a month for coffee! That boggles my mind. That, my readers is over $1000.00 a year for a cup of coffee. No wonder there are so many stores. Now, as times become tight many of these stores are closing. Is it any wonder? My purchases at a Starbucks were a rare treat and certainly not the norm.

Afternoons spent at the home improvement centers are like going to the mall for a lot of you. You go in with the idea in mind to get a few light bulbs and you come out three hours later having spent at least $100.00. I have been guilty of doing this. I leave my credit cards AT HOME now. I have been doing this for some time. If you can see clearly that things are changing then start making changes NOW!

If you have a job and you are complaining then you are not thinking outside the box. Having employment now is more of a blessing than you know. Bloom where you are planted and shine like you have never shone before. Keeping this kind of outlook will insure that you will attract good things into your life. We are universally gravitating toward something better and higher for ourselves. Many of us have never felt peace.

Indeed many of us have never felt happy. We don’t have a clue what it is. We think it is our job so we identify with it. But that is only what we do and not who we are. Any deep spiritual happiness is out of our reach simply because we have not done our due diligence where our soul is concerned. We don’t know who we are much less why are we here? As things and circumstances are being removed from our lives, we quickly go to a default setting of pining after what is gone. What we should be doing is expressing gratitude for what we do have and not for what we don’t have.

Change is a constant. What is happening is not a removal but a transmutation.

Look at the opportunities that are opening up for you. How are you going to fill your life now? If you are sitting there moaning instead of writing on that novel that you haven’t touched for months…shame on you. If you are sitting there telling the whole world what has been done to you instead of thinking about what you can do. Let the cant’s go. This word should not be in your vocabulary.

How can you think outside the box right now?

I am telling you that your creator is leading the way with guidance and signposts along the way. You are being assisted right this moment. Once you understand and use it in your life things will start to change dramatically. So, you have to start thinking outside the box with God too. Have you had God in a box? I am being constantly reminded not to box my spirit in. How about you? Are you feeling a little boxed in? Open the box and allow the expansion to follow. You can tap into more peace and happiness than you can imagine. Stop creating more problems for yourself and create more solutions. God has always told me that if I wanted peace and joy, I had to learn how to be peaceful and joyous. It makes sweet sense to me.

April 03 2009 | Other Useful Articles and Power Boost: April 2009 and Spiritual / Metaphysical and Women and Money! | No Comments »

Creating Heaven on Earth

by Dawn Fleming

What if we woke up every morning and celebrated the day – happy to be alive and ready for the new adventure? What if we greeted and acknowledged everyone that we meet with love, compassion and respect no matter how they appeared or behaved? What if we accepted challenges as just a part of our life’s experience with no negative inner or external reaction as they arrived and departed? What if we only anticipated and lived with the knowledge that God was taking care of all our needs all the time?

What I am describing here is a new way of living and of being. If we could move our consciousness totally into one of love, acceptance and acknowledging the oneness of everything all the time, even part of the time for a start, our lives would reflect a whole new picture.

Heaven would become a part of our earthly experience. If we each assume responsibility for our personal role in releasing critical judgments and for looking through the eyes of Divine discernment, the world would change over night on a personal and global basis. Identifying our negative thoughts and transforming them to support the life we want, is a huge step for many, but a necessary one. Those situations that we label as difficulties would dissolve as we consciously transform negative thoughts into a cheerleading squad to assist us in realizing our dreams. .

I find myself having really great days, where I know heaven as a part of my soul and that I am able to share and connect with the heavenly perspective in all that I see. I also find that I have days where I wake up in critical judgment of myself and of the world. I fall from heaven suffering into my fears and in the thoughts of separation. Sinking down only to return to remembering the only resolution, the only true path is to return in consciousness back to the Kingdom and to live in this higher perspective.

As you can see the world around us (in business, government, military, religious organizations, and family structures) is trying to choose whether to change from the comfort of the old way of behaving, which has created chaos, fear, deception, poverty, and power struggles, to learning to live differently by climbing the ladder of consciousness. The world is struggling to release old negative behaviors, thought forms and old paradigms in order to make positive shifts both individually and collectively. As each person and organization chooses to embody and live in this heavenly consciousness, it makes it easier for the next person to make the shift. When the essence of what we display is truly love, compassion, respect, faith and gratitude, we create a vibration, an energy field, grounding heaven on earth. Your presence then naturally lifts the spirits of others. It impacts where you work and where you pray. Healing occurs. Negative defenses are dissolved. The energy of heaven becomes permanent on earth, when ever you are and where your mind goes. You see abundance and you are peace, and this spreads around the world.

So when you wake up tomorrow morning and every morning give gratitude for another day. Immerse yourself in the knowledge of the Divine that flows through you as rivers of living water. Anticipate and be open to peaceful resolution to life’s challenges. Send loving thoughts to yourself and to others. Know deep within your heart that your role is to establish heaven on earth. Throughout the day visit your consciousness to ensure that you are creating heaven wherever you are.

If any man is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, just as the scriptures have said, the rivers of living water shall flow from within him. John 7:21 37-38

Join Dawn Fleming on April 4^th , in P3’s teleseminar: Releasing Negative Thought Forms that Limit Our Success, Empowering Women to Live their Truth

Dawn Fleming, is a holistic health practitioner and teacher, author, and spiritual advisor. http://www.energytransformations.org Join her free ezine, check out her transforming meditation CDs.

April 03 2009 | Life & Vision Coaching and Power Boost: April 2009 and Spiritual / Metaphysical | No Comments »

C’mon Let’s Laugh: Full Moon Off

by Marilyn Sprague-Smith, M.Ed

America is celebrating the 33rd anniversary of National Humor Month in April. The original intent of this month-long celebration was to heighten public awareness of the joy and therapeutic value of humor and laughter. Through first-hand experience, I’m discovering that looking for the funny in everyday living—especially during a full moon—eases frustration, alleviates agitation and improves outlook on life.

Many studies debunk the association between “strange” human behavior and lunar phases. It’s not uncommon, though, for caregivers, medical professionals and law enforcement officials to give credence to the “lunar effect.” A familiar “it must be a full moon” is often exchanged with raised eyebrows to explain out of the ordinary behavior.

One morning during a recent full moon cycle, Jill, a dear friend who has opened her home to me and my dog, left an instructional note on the kitchen counter. It read, “Robert (her elderly father who is experiencing progressive Alzheimer’s) has had a big breakfast and taken his meds. He was up at 4:00, 4:45 and 6:30 AM (maybe more)—Full Moon “Off?” Have a great day.” It appeared to be an attempt to inject humor and ease the frustration of sleep deprivation she and her husband were experiencing as a result of her dad’s. erratic behavior.

When Robert entered the breakfast room, it was readily apparent the witty, jovial, upbeat retired Air Force Colonel was absent. In his place was a tired, confused, agitated Robert. Gone was the sparkle in his eyes and his zesty “Ta Da, here I am. It’s so good for me to see you,” countenance. Instead, Robert shuffled to his place at the table, gave me a questioning glance and started mumbling incoherent sentences.

Most of the morning was spent helping Robert link to the present. It was heart wrenching to hear him explain that he was certain I was telling the truth, but it wasn’t the same as what was going on in his head. At one point he queried, “I’m not psychiatric am I?” With a warm hand-clasp and soft eyes, I replied, “No Robert, together we’re filling in some blanks. That’s all.” We shared a light-hearted laugh. Then, the process repeated itself.

Mid-afternoon, I felt an urge to call Dixie, a girl friend who is working as a community outreach liaison and caregiver for a non-medical, in-home service provider. She didn’t sound like her buoyant self when she answered the phone. In a few short sentences, I found out a male client with dementia started making blatant sexual overtures towards her that morning. I shared with her Jill’s Full Moon “Off” explanation. It sparked a mild chuckle from Dixie. She really was feeling disgusted. However, her sense of humor blossomed fully just before our conversation ended.

“You know, I’ve been thinking. EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) might be a solution. I have this giant size picture of me teaching him how to tap while affirming ‘Even though I’m horny as H-E-double-L, I love and accept myself exactly as I am.’ Whatdaya think?”

Needless to say, laughter was spewing out of our mouths. Neither of us could speak and our conversation ended in a spree of laughter. The next morning, I forwarded a copy of a daily inspirational e-mail message to provide encouragement and support. A few days later, Robert’s behavior returned to normal and we all thought the saga of Full Moon “Off” was over. That is, until the Universe provided an opportunity for a humorous post script.

Dixie sent a response to my e-mail about five days later. Here’s what it said:

“Thx. You want another good laugh? Here’s my Horoscope from Sunday’s paper: ‘You ooze sex appeal and charm, but that doesn’t mean that you should push for a firm commitment or a promise. Use your attractiveness to make a favorable impression on the job this week.’ Is that a GAS or what?!”

As my burst of laughter subsided, I knew the saga of Full Moon “Off” just had to be taken to the next level. I dialed Dixie’s cell phone and let out a quiet sigh of relief when she answered. After all, a punch line is all about timing, timing, timing.

“Dixie?,” I inquired in a serious business tone, as an attempt to camouflage my voice.

“Yes,” was her hesitant reply.

“I’d like to place a job order. (Pause) I’m seeking someone whose attractiveness can create a favorable impression on the job. Can you help me?”

There was a pregnant pause on the other end of the phone. I sensed she was getting ready to hang up on a “prank” caller.

“Dixie, it’s Marilyn,” I blurted out. “I just got your e-mail. Sounds like you’re too sexy for your job!”

We erupted into laughter simultaneously. Through our shared mirth and merriment, we both recognized last week’s agitation was a set up for this week’s punch line.

Throughout National Humor Month, give yourself permission to look for humor in everyday living. Let the power of a huge belly laugh be your automatic reset for easing frustration, alleviating agitation and brightening your outlook. It’s guaranteed to work.

So, C’mon, Let’s Laugh! and create a personal antidote to Full Moon “Off.”

Marilyn Sprague-Smith , M.Ed. is an award-winning trainer, author, professional speaker and certified laughter leader. She and Spirit, her white male Bishon Frise´, reside in Ft. Collins. Call 336-314-1700 or visit www.miraclesmagicinc.com for info about her keynotes, meeting energizers, breakout sessions and customized training services.

April 03 2009 | Inspiring Stories / Poetry and Motherhood & Family Life and Other Useful Articles and Power Boost: April 2009 and Power Boost: February 2009 and Your Physical Self | No Comments »

From the President’s Corner: Writing Your Way to Freedom

by Lisa Thomas

Writing soothes my soul and allows me to escape into my own created world where there are no boundaries. It calms me and takes me into an unknown world well worth the adventure. Much of my writing is the window to the heart, soul and mind of Lisa. While writing had been a hobby for many years, I opened that window for all the world to see when I did my first self-published booklet in 1997.

Poetry, on the other hand, was a hidden passion, peeking in on a deeper more intimate side of me. When I’m writing poetry there are no rules to follow, something I struggled with as a child. As a young girl, I was placed in a special remedial class for students who needed additional help with their reading skills. Little did I know how monumentally limiting that moment would be for me. With that experience, I decided my writing wasn’t good enough for anyone to see.

Eventually, I found that there were rules about writing, ways you should write even rules about life that I must follow to be good. I created my own hidden world of rules for writing, my own rules of life, and kept them in a safe place hidden from everyone. Publicly, I focused my energies on mathematics and earned a B.S.in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance. Although silent, the writer in me remained.

Funny, that I was teaching women to live passionately and to have powerful, fulfilled lives, yet my poetry was a hidden passion. I realized keeping it a secret was compromising my integrity. It was time to unleash, unlock and empower the extraordinary woman within.

My husband encouraged me to read my poetry aloud as often as possible given my love and passion for it. At an open mic night while visiting California, the positive response finally convinced me to believe my friends, my husband, and most importantly, to believe in myself. I decided to let go of the past about not being a good writer and to let it rip. I assembled an electronic book, A Collection on Love, Loss and Life and five accompanying poetic prints.

I believe there is a writer in all of us. The process of opening up your creativity is not a simple formula; each woman has her own process but the following steps worked for me:

1) Find the space for your creativity to emerge. You must be still to hear from your inner self, your spirit. Webster defines "be" as "to exist or live." Being requires very little effort, very little thought, because you ARE simply by virtue of being alive.

Further, Webster defines "still" as "noiseless; silent, stationary and tranquil; calm." In being still, you want to calm and center yourself, focusing on being present to the moment. One way to do this is to find a place of solitude, a tranquil place when you can actively listen for what’s needed and wanted.

2) Open your heart to your passions. In the still moments you want to listen to your spirit and begin to give language to your inner voice.

Ask yourself:

* What is it that I most love?
* What is life like when I lose track of time?
* What am I engaged in?
* What is the experience?
* What are my most intimate thoughts?
* When am I most alive?

3) Think of how you feel . Notice what emotions are bubbling up within you. Our emotions are the flags of our passions waving us down the path to our truest selves.

4) As your thoughts unfold, capture your experience on paper. Give it life by writing it as vividly and specifically as you can. Thank the Editor for sharing and send her away! Just be still and write until you are empty, describing every feeling, every thought and every emotion. I’ll leave you with an excerpt from my poem.

If My Passion Could Feel
If my passion could feel, it would spread its wings open, fly and soar Wide open.
Oh, freely gliding.
Free. Free. Free to be, to create, concentrate, relate from a clean slate.
And make visions of one’s own calling.
Embrace and face the world with a full succulent force and rejoice.
It would swoop up those who long and choose to be with me….finding peace and serenity within.
Ahhhh, yes, if my passion could feel….
Free, oooohhhh free, Wild-like free, free, freeeeeeeee…

April 03 2009 | Inspiring Stories / Poetry and Other Useful Articles and Power Boost: April 2009 and Women Living On Purpose | No Comments »