Let's Develop

The day to day life and accompanying struggles eventually nags at some part of us and the result in a persistent urge to take action. Because we are a constantly evolving species we must acknowledge this need less we become restless, bored, tired, lethargic, angry and/or depressed.

Why do we forget this about ourselves--this need for change, variety, and stimulus?  Not accepting this sometimes drive us to seek relief and not always in ways that are healthy and fulfilling in the long run.

What if, when we are feeling like this, we took action is some form. Talking to your coach, starting a new project, learning a second language, taking a road trip, or even just totally reinventing yourself. Dr. Fred Newman and Phyllis Goldberg, in their book, "Let's Develop," talk about their Social Therapeutic Approach, in which, they say, "we can change who we are rather than a certain behavior." They discuss our need to develop and create.
What and who do we wish to become?

This week  join me in trying to conscioulsy take notice of that urge or need -and, do something about it that will recreate you!

Easter Sunday

The wind was blowing with fervor and the shining sun was illuminating the cloudy, blue sky as I walked along the trail enjoying the crispness of the day. When I believe in possibilities only good comes of situations in my life. Thus, the promise of a new day, of the death of the old, and the birth of the new.

Stories of resurrection abound, giving knowledge of renewal no matter what the perspective, idea, faith, or religion. It's exciting to know that we are always growing. No matter what. Think about those stories of faith, hope, growth, and renewal as you head into the week to remind you that, indeed, all is well. Add something valuable to your life by gently dismissing something that hinders you and embracing something that resurrects you.

Look around for possibilities...

Changing our habits

It's funny the way life works, in that, issues that require our attention are sometimes brought about by an event in our lives, or something we read, or something we hear. The topic hits a nerve and suddenly we recognize (not always) its effect on us. We notice that it bothers us. Many times we ignore it. It's when we look at it and evaluate it that we can initiate change and promote growth.

Recently, two events have given me the capacity to try and be aware of those moments and to act upon them.  I attended a Science of Mind group yesterday that allowed me some insight as to how to use those moments to heal and grow. The facilitator of the group spoke about one form of meditation called Shambala.  Shambala is a liberal form of meditation, in that, there are not rigid rules to adhere to. The focus is on your breathing. Any time a thought distracts you from focusing on your breathing, you immediately forget the thought and return your focus to your breathing. What this accomplishes is, a place away from your thoughts back to your breathing. You come to a state of quiet. The resultant awareness is that your thought or thoughts have no power over you. Thus, if you have a thought that continuously hounds you, if you will, you can just stop and concentrate on your breathing to dispel the annoying thought. You can do it with any thought that is habitual or disconcerting.

My second awareness came from a book I am reading. The author speaks about our "sick side and our healthy side." It his his premise that "there is a part of us, however small, that wants us to grow." Likewise, there is a part of us, however small, that does not want us to exert ourselves, that clings to the old and familiar, fearful of any change or effort, desiring comfort at any cost and absence of pain at any price, even if the penalty be ineffectiveness, stagnation, or regression."  Knowing this, we are faced with this question, which side will we nurture?

Ultimately, each one of us decides because we are all always growing. Understanding our choices is empowering. Since my transplant, and after seriously looking at my life for answers to many questions, I learned the necessity for changing habits. And, I have learned to be grateful for the ability to change. So, with that I leave you with a quote I recently read:

     "First we form habits, then they form us. Conquer your bad habits or they will conquer you!"

Have an empowered week...

Oh this life!

Wow, you come to realize changes happening in your life are expressions of what you desire for yourself.  Often you, not only, sabotage yourself, but also, do so without even realizing it!  It's when you realize you create your outcome is when you have power. You ask, am I up for the challenge of being who I wish to become and doing what I know is right and good for me?

Clearly, you can  speak to your coach, family members, and friends about how to best manage your circumstances and thrive. But, ultimately it's up to you as to whether or not you succeed. The recurring question of, do I have the strength and fortitude to rise up and to say no to myself so that I may eventually say yes to a better day and a better life, will always enter in. Will I fall short?

So, what do you desire for yourself? Who are you without that weakness, illness, or stumbling block? What do you need to change in your life? Are you going to listen to that nagging voice that wants you to pay attention to what you need to face? Will you make that change?

Say yes! It's time to take that hard look at yourself and make a decision. It's time to say that prayer for guidance and strength. It's time to embrace the struggle and hold on to hope. It's time to use your inner dialogue that expresses the real truth about you, which is: YOU DESERVE ONLY THE BEST! It's time to say to yourself: I have what it takes and I refuse to settle for something that makes me feel less than--no matter what price I have to pay!  Put your shoulders back. Chin up. Stay focused. Don't look back. Go and do what you need to do. Know that the world supports you as long as you are doing what is best for you. You were made to win and you will!

Oh, this life...it's your move...

The Power of Words

This morning I was listened to Joel Osteen as he preached his Sunday sermon. I was so very inspired by his sermon because I noted the intensity of the attentive audience.  It was exciting to watch the audience take heed if the content. The message: Use your words to help others achieve. Find the positive in others and tell them how capable they are and how many possibilities there are. Be a champion for their growth!

He talked about famous people as well as everyday people whose live's were changed because someone told them something positive and encouraged them. It made me remember my family members and the medical staff that encouraged me when I was recovering from my transplant. I learned to listen to my coaches because they always guide me toward using my potential and reaching my highest good.

What words are you listening to? And, what are you saying to the people you meet? To yourself? Your words are powerful, use them wisely.

To contemplate is to discover.

Is there something you have been planning, a project that you are working on, or perhaps a new perspective you are considering? Are you following through with your intention? Do you feel you are on track, clear and focused?

This weekend provided sometime for contemplation and I found than when I contemplate, I discover much on a spiritual level, a glimpse into my inner being where the questions abound and the distractions originate. Sometimes, I wonder how to gain clarity and purpose in whatever pursuit I am pondering.  What is best, what is right?  It is at these times that I realize the power and depth of my potential. It is also at these times that I speak with my coach, my family, and my friends. It is at these times that I pray for greater understanding. And, I always receive support.

There is no doubt that we have an inner guidance that remains loyal if we listen.  And, when we question, there is an answer. Know that you are supported as you contemplate and discover. Get clear, stay focused, contemplate, and feel safe. Have a purposeful week. Peace.

Weak immune systems

As a heart transplant recipient, I know what it means to have a compromised immune system.  You always have to be on guard and use strategic planning when doing almost anything. Colds, flues, allergies, and nearly anything that causes physical distress is amplified when you have a weakened immune system.

Because the flu season hasn't really taken off yet this season, doesn't mean that it won't.  I already know 2 people with pneumonia and many others with severe colds and sinus infections. Many medical professionals are concerned that March could result in the flu becoming prevalent.

So, those of you with weakened immune systems should take action to insure that you don't get sick. You know the drill. Wash your hands, rest, vitamins, eat right, etc. It's up to you to stay well--if you can.