blog – Butterfly Spirit!

The Wisdom of Sundays

Your spirit is the part of you that is seeking meaning and purpose. That’s one way someone cant relate to that. Another way to understand spirit is that it’s the part of you that is drawn to hope, that will not give in to despair. The part of you that has to believe in goodness; that has to believe in something more. – Caroline Myss

This excerpt is taken from Oprah Winfrey’s books called “The Wisdom of Sundays”. The best feeling in the world is to pick up a book. Flip a few random pages, only to find the guidance spirit is seeking. The message above arrived at the precise time. Divine wisdom for a Sunday. Be light xo

The Blessing of Adversity

Wednesday's Words: The flower that blooms — Moriah with an O

The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen – Elisabeth Kübler-Ross

Adversity creates a frequency of transformation. Have you ever encountered a period in life, in which obstacles happened simultaneously? That your inner world was spiraling? To which, caused you to question every aspect of your existence? These conditions bring upon a new direction for you. During a crisis, breakthroughs materialize. In retrospect, you are being asked to go within. To assess your life, see what is really working for you. To be brutally honest.

What is Adversity? This term can be defined as conflict, hardship or even oppression. Adversity happens to raise your being. Have you ever noticed during times of difficulties, you learn a life lesson? This is not a random coincidence. Those incredibly harsh moments that have crippled you, are actually a blessing. Your soul has chosen particular situations, on purpose to elevate your spirit. There is a silver lining under the cloud with adversity. Intuitively, you know this will pass. Adversity creates drive, which in turn amplifies motivation.

Adversity + Drive = Motivation

This above model was a realization that came to me clearly. Without adversity in life we do not grow. We have a choice. To sit in sorrow, shutting the world out – or to RISE

There are countless stories in history how individuals triumphed over adversity. One that comes to the forefront is Victor Frankl. He was a Psychotherapist who survived the Holocaust. His parents along with wife perished during World War II. Frankl survived oppression and suffering. He experienced one of the most traumatic events in history. Following the Holocaust Frankl wrote the highly influential novel called, “Man’s Search For Meaning”. His life story in turn was meant to guide others. His light became dim, however he chose to live in faith.

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you

– Matthew 7:7 KJV

The humanitarian Princess Diana endured hardships while being in the British Monarchy. She turned her misfortunes into something positive. This was done by the Power of love. Princess Diana was charismatic and touched the lives of millions. She placed her energy into charity, helping humanity and making a contribution in the world. She was light and wanted to encourage others to do the same.

Victor Frankl and Diana endured suffering. However, they kept focused on faith. Will power, determination and love kept them resilient. Perhaps they were being guided by a force of energy beyond their comprehension. This could be seen as God, Source, Universe or whatever you believe. Their struggle did not define them. The story was changed. You can do this as well. You make a conscious decision for a different narrative.

Two things stand like stone: Kindness in another’s trouble, courage in your own – Princess Diana

When you are faced with contention, this is when your psyche will expand. There are many of us who avoid problems. Thinking that if you avoid conflict it will resolve on its own. Is this really healthy for your well-being and soul? You become an individual who avoids controversy.

Are you a conflict avoider? Do problems make you freeze up and momentarily feel stuck?

I have done this in the past and on occasion still do. I ruminate that if I avoid a problem long enough it will disappear on its own. This is not the best approach when dealing with conflict. One should be open to difficulties, absorb the situation and see how you can find a solution. Freezing up only allows the situation to perpetuate. Expressing your viewpoints calmly and wholeheartedly will allow that stuck feeling to leave you.

Throughout your life there will be periods when all aspects of life are aligning perfectly. Time may even stand still. Appreciate this in every way. Alternatively, moments of strife will also arise. Be willing to see each downfall as an opportunity. Choices are what defines your life. I ask you to remain in faith. Pray daily, connect with whatever you believe or follow. Place the creator in the centre of your life. Help others, really listen to what people have to say. You are so much bigger than you know. Stop limiting yourself. You are capable, follow the whispers of ancient wisdom of the wind. Anything is possible and attainable. Be love.

For the first time in my life I saw the truth as it is set into song by so many poets, proclaimed as the final wisdom by so many thinkers. The truth – that Love is the ultimate and highest goal to which man can aspire. Then I grasped the meaning of the greatest secret that human poetry and human thought and belief have to impart: The salvation of man is through love and in love ― Viktor E. Frankl

Metta Prayer – Buddha

Loving Kindness Meditation - Metta Meditation - Trauma Resolution in Millburn, NJ | Jennifer L. Todd, LCSW

The Discourse on Loving Kindness

May I be filled with loving kindness.

May I be healthy. May I be at peace.

May I be happy.

May you be filled with loving kindness.

May you be healthy. May you be at peace.

May you be happy.

May all beings be filled with loving kindness.

May all beings be healthy. May all beings be at peace.

May all beings be happy.

I have recently started a 21 Day Meditation Practice. The Metta Prayer, was originally chanted by Buddha. It was recited in order to bring peace and inner clarity. This was something I felt inclined to share with everyone. May you all be happy, successful and full of love. Stay in faith during these times on the planet. Be joyful, kind and stay humble. xoxo

The Beauty of Aging

35 Best Birthday Quotes - Happy Birthday Wishes, Quotes, and Messages

Life isn’t about your age. Life is about living. So when your birthday comes be thankful for the year that has just past and anticipate with a happy heart what the coming year will bring -Catherine Pulsifer

Life is about living, seeing everything as a gift. When a Birthday arrives, it’s a celebration of YOUR divinity. Your Birthday is that special moment in time, when you were created. Each breathe an extension to your soul. Grateful for your memories, experiences that have contributed to you who you are. To be alive here and now.

What does the process of aging signify to you? Do you define yourself by a number or can get beyond this paradigm? You are daily evolving into the best version of yourself. Seeing the development of your spirit at any given age. Appreciating all you have, the daily blessings. Over the summer of 2021, I turned 40 – a milestone. That big BIRTHDAY! I could feel something stirring inside me. Knowing that things are about to shake up this decade. An end to playing it safe, and time to embark on a new horizon. Inner growth and an anticipation for a new phase of life.

Prior to turning 40, a few of my girlfriends offered their sentiments. It was articulated that 40 would bring some unrest. There will be soul-searching, questioning my life path and who I AM. I thought to myself, “I do this daily”. Truth be told, turning 40 was not a simple process. Even to write this blog-post I hesitated, as to whether I wanted to share my experience. After a peaceful meditation, the decision was clear. I needed to share my story. It is being honest with ourselves that helps one heal and assist others. Maybe this is what was meant all along?

The years ahead are ours to win and cherish. We cannot let anything, least of all our age, stand in our way! -Tina Sloan

My 40^th was spent with my family. This filled my heart with such compassion and love. I could not have asked for a better celebration. Being in the company of family is all one needs to feel cherished. I had every type of Italian dessert you could imagine and was surrounded by love. Phone calls from family and friends lifted the spirit.

On the opposite side of the pendulum, I kept thinking where have the last 40 years of my life gone? I wanted to avoid my emotions and was in denial. I felt inadequate unworthiness crept in. My choices, decisions and past were all flooding forward. I thought by 40, I would have my life together. What does having together really mean anyway? I had to allow this to surface. Release all preconceived notions and judgments. There was a long list and I was tormenting myself. I needed to embrace all contrasting emotions to find clarity. This was a turning point. There were plenty of tears, ice-cream and journaling.

Spiritually speaking, I was being governed by my ego. Sitting in regret and unkind to my heart. It took an enlightening conversation with my brother to break the funk. I was thankful for his insight. He offered words of guidance that allowed me to soften. Age is meaningless, and can not let this rule your life. Try not to allow a number to define your existence. What we need to give more attention to is our consciousness and passions. No matter what age you are, follow your passions. This will always keep you young at heart.

There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age. –Sophia Loren

With every age you will shift. Your insights will change continuously. It is your perception on how you grasp experiences. This defines your character. I often question whether women or men feel societal expectations with becoming older? We may all feel this at any stage of our lives. One can not allow to be influenced by media or societal pressures. Count your blessings, instead of the candles on your cake. See the beauty of all the daily positive influences around you. You are golden.

Your life is a gift. What holds significance is how much you value yourself. Life is a paradox. We are here for a brief period, learning lessons and evolving our mind. I finish with this, adhere to what sparks the light within. Advocate for yourself, be subversive, create the life you are destined for. The blessing of 40 has shown me, it’s time to live my dreams. To take the reign of my life. I hope at any age you do this as well. Live each day as if it’s – YOUR BIRTHDAY.

I believe the second half of one’s life is meant to be better than the first half. The first half is finding out how you do it. And the second half is enjoying it -Frances Lear

J’ Adore Paris

Travel Quotes Paris 25+ Ideas | Paris quotes, France travel, Paris travel

Breathe Paris in. It nourishes the soul – Victor Hugo

Is there a country or city that captivates your spirit? That instant, the airplane arrives at this sacred destination, you feel at home? Everything becomes clear. You begin to glow, exhilarated and full of possibility. For me, this is Paris, France! The moment my heart arrives in Paris, I am reborn. I recognize, there are many of us who have shared this calling when traveling. You can not explain it however, being in a specific city or country makes you feel utterly free.

Paris is not a city; it’s a world – King Francis I

Oui Oui Paris

I’ve been blessed to journey to Paris on several occasions. Have explored this sacred city in all seasons as well. Often, I am asked why Paris? The country of France has appealed to me for decades. I AM eternally drawn to the magic of Paris. The culture, food, art, history and fashion are a few aspects which are captivating. One of my favourite activities is walking along the Seine River. Sitting close to the water, and absorbing the energy. Getting lost in the city streets, people watching in local cafes are a must. Exploring Boulevard Saint-Germain is on top of my list as well. Having a baguette, trying every type of dessert is an absolute treat while in France. One of my fondest memories in Paris was watching a film at the Parc de La Villette. It was full of local Parisians, who were enjoying the simplicity of life.

My firm belief is that there is a calling to Paris. One trip does not suffice. You will rediscover other parts of the city and sites every time you return. I am sure many have seen the nostalgic film called “A Midnight In Paris”. Watching the movie evokes a yearning always. Every aspect of the film I can relate to. I feel the writer in me, is influenced by philosophical narratives that derived from Paris and France. There is an inclination that I will relocate there one day soon. The soul has an inner knowing of where it needs to be next.

Paris is a place in which we can forget ourselves, reinvent, expunge the dead weight of our past -Michael Simkins

Highlights of Paris

Traveling is a personal journey. Particular sites or attractions may appeal to you and are uninviting to others. My advice is to immerse yourself wherever you go. Learn the language, meet locals and be open to everything. Listed below are a few highlights that may be of interest:

Jardin de Plantes – A botanical garden located in the heart of Paris. The Museum of Natural History is also located in this garden. Be prepared to spend hours taking in the aesthetics of horticulture.

Rodin Museum – Visiting the Rodin museum in Paris will leave you in awe and inspiration. A must see in Paris.

Sacre Coeur Basilica – The Sacred Heart of Paris, located at the top of Montmartre. The interior of the Basilica is mystical, you will feel a deep connection to spirit. The Montmartre area will leave you breathless with artists, performers and shops in proximity.

Montparnasse Tower – Has one of the best views of Paris. You can take in the whole city of Paris from here!

At night I would climb the steps to the Sacre-Coeur, and I would watch Paris, that futile oasis, scintillating in the wilderness of space. I would weep, because it was so beautiful

– Simone de Beauvoir

Why do you travel?

What motivates you to travel? In my perspective it’s a soul calling. Spiritually speaking, could it be that you have had past-lives in a particular country, city or region? Perhaps your soul is being called back for some inner awakenings? Personally speaking, I have had vivid dreams of traveling to Paris. Sometimes it is unexplainable why we gravitate to particular places. The world is your oyster, it is meant to be discovered and explored.

Traveling is invigorating. I encourage you to visit all parts of the world. It is getting out of your comfort zone which helps you to learn and mature. When you travel on your own, it’s relying solely on yourself. You expand exponentially on a soul level once you venture out on your own. You answer to no one but yourself. This experience is worth traveling. You have the opportunity to evolve, make ever lasting contacts and discover a new way of living. When are you leaving for Paris?

I love Paris in the springtime
I love Paris in the fall
I love Paris in the winter when it drizzles
I love Paris in the summer when it sizzles

I love Paris every moment
Every moment of the year
I love Paris
Why, oh, why do I love Paris?
Because my love is here

-Georgia Gibbs

Mark Nepo – Feeding Your Heart

No matter how dark,

the hand always knows

the way to the mouth.

-Idoma Proverb (Nigeria)

Even when we can’t see, we know how to feed ourselves. Even when the way isn’t clear, the heart still pumps. Even when afraid, the air of everything enters and leaves the lungs. Even when clouds grow thick, the sun still pours its light earthward.

This African proverb reminds us that things are never as bad as they seem inside the problem. We have inner reflexes that keep us alive, deep impulses of being and aliveness that work beneath the hardships we are struggling with.

We must remember: the hand cannot eliminate the darkness, only find its way to the mouth. Likewise, our belief in life cannot eliminate our suffering, only find its way to feed our heart.

The above excerpt was taken from “The Book of Awakening”, by Mark Nepo. A reminder to look within. Trust your inner self, keep faith and love at the forefront of all life decisions. May you always tune into your heart. Stay blessed xo

Creativity

To be creative means to be in love with life. You can be creative only if you love life enough that you want to enhance its beauty, you want to bring a little more music to it, a little more poetry to it, a little more dance to it. Osho

In Grade 1, I was first introduced to the children’s literature author – Robert Munsch. Every afternoon, my teacher had designated story time for the classroom. With enthusiasm, I would run to the reading circle, and wait patiently for a story to be read. The narratives of Robert Munsch always evoked such delight at a young age. There was one particular story called “The Paper Bag Princess” that had hidden messages of self-love and empowerment.

At the tender age of 6, I felt my imagination was being expanded. Everyday we heard tales to enhance our vision. Although I was still learning how to read, I was drawn to literature. Hearing something daily elevated my spirit. My mind would visualize all characters and was swept away. As an adult, I reflect on the importance of “story time”. It was tapping into that creative genius, we all have within us.

The Story:

The Paper Bag Princess is about an unconventional Princess named Elizabeth. She is to be married to Prince Ronald. Prior to the nuptials, this feisty lass ends up being held captive by a dragon. While in the castle, she patiently awaits her Prince Charming to come and rescue her. Twist to the plotline – the protagonist ends up misleading the dragon and saving herself. She encourages the dragon to fly and use up all its energy. A little heroine in the making. The Prince see’s Elizabeth, wrapped up in a paper bag, unlike the usual Princess attire. Upon seeing this, Ronald criticizes Elizabeth and chooses not to marry her. Her reaction – she calls Ronald a “bum”. Lo and behold, life takes a new direction for Elizabeth.

Celebrate who you are in your deepest heart. Love yourself and the world will love you. Amy Leigh Mercree

Why am I sharing the story of The Paper Bag Princess? I recently read it again, and it sparked something inside me. There was a message I needed to receive. First and foremost, it was a nudge from the universe to remember how much I love to write. To keep writing, honour that creative genius even if my articles are not published. Secondly, the reminder of self-love and empowerment. You are in charge of our life. Similar to Elizabeth, you empower yourself daily by the choices you make and the company you surround yourself with.

In children’s books, there is always insight for adults. It was a blessing to acknowledge the importance of self-love. This was not your usual Fairy Tale ending but perhaps one many can relate to. Elizabeth creates her own happiness, and dances towards the sunset – the light.

What sparks your creative flow? Is it travelling, journaling, cooking, singing or writing? There are multiple avenues that will continually speak to your spirit. Perhaps its numbers or gardening that make you tap into your higher self. Whatever it may be, I ask you to keep discovering more about yourself. You could be the next Picasso, Einstein or Vivaldi!

The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination. Albert Einstein

The more you are in tune with your creativity, you allow parts of yourself to expand. Your brain creates new pathways when you are in this flow of energy. When you are in that space of creativity, you are receiving wisdom beyond yourself. Channel that inspiration into what makes you feel euphoric. The hobbies you have are here for a greater purpose. These are you innate gifts. Your task is to do this daily. Allot time to do what makes you feel empowered.

How can you expand on your creativity:

Visualize, see how you want your day to unfold
Journal – appreciate where you are in life today
Create, this could be drawing, doing a DIY project or anything that puts you in a state of equilibrium
Have fun, play, be in joy as much as possible
Ask yourself how can you be service with your creative talents

The Paper Bag Princess, reflected on the theme of self-love. The relationship you have with yourself is connected to your heart. As you love yourself, this energy is felt outwardly. Knowing your creativity is endless. You may be the most effective communicator, designer, builder or entrepreneur. There are ceaseless possibilities being birthed by you. Remember to trust, you have known all along what ignites that inner flame. Make time for the life you have always imagined. Your creativity is asking you to reach beyond yourself. Never stop learning, at any point in time your life can change.

Kindness

Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind. Henry James

Wherever you are living, every human being has been impacted by Covid. We are all collectively sharing a similar dialogue. Though life has transformed, let us play our part by being kind to ourselves and others. Have you ever noticed, when you smile at a stranger they respond in the same manner? A smile is a warm exchange, that you are acknowledging someone. This is true kind-heartedness. It is an expression of gratitude from your heart to another.

I am humbled to write this piece from my own personal experience. We learn by hearing stories from others. Similar to our ancestors, they shared stories throughout generations to guide and teach us. These narratives were created to help you progress. We are able to relate, reflect and share our experience for the better. My story begins with nurturing of the spirit. I was in need of some vitamins and required a visit to a health and wellness store.

While searching for a few items, I saw a customer service representative and decided to ask for assistance. We spoke for a few moments. Instantly, I felt myself being triggered and judged. The guidance was unfriendly and it caused emotions to arise. Has this happened to you before? An interaction with a complete stranger can cause you to feel intense emotions? “I kept thinking, is this all about me? Am I projecting energy this is causing this all to happen”?

I absorbed the energy from the sales representative and was quite upset. They were condescending, and right away I felt small. Not a good feeling for the soul. Instead of walking away, I took a few breaths and came back to equanimity. Started to regain my strength and approached him. I needed to advocate for myself. I honoured myself and told him how the interaction made me feel. I explained the importance of being heart centered and kind – especially during Covid.

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness. Dalai Lama

What I reflect on daily, is that I am unaware of what someone may be experiencing. When you demean someone else, majority of the time it is all about “YOU”. Kindness is inner job, first and foremost are you being kind to yourself? Your self-talk is vital to your wellbeing. Plant seeds of kindness within. They will begin to blossom from you heart and expand. Your inner discourse towards yourself impacts the mind and body connection.

When one stands up for themselves, it creates a domino affect. No matter what the situation is, may you always remember that you have every right to be heard and appreciated. You are strong and here to make an impact in the world. Kindness touches others. You do this by loving strangers unconditionally. Not by hiding yourself, however by shining your “LIGHT”. Let us all rise to by extending our best selves forward.

During the time of Covid, many have been soul searching. May you be mindful when encountering others, to be empathetic and genuine. It cost nothing to be kind to people. Why are we so guarded? How can we return to the essence of love? Love is a spiritual energy that changes the chemistry of our being. My observation over the past year is that we need to extend our compassion and be kind. Each day make it a priority to see someone smile. Uplift others for no reason or expectation.

Kindness is about giving from a sincere place within. Giving can take on many forms: listening to others or leaving a thank you note, this is kindness. Doing something for the sake of giving, to see someone light up from the inside out. Let kindness be in your smile, radiating from your heart – this will impact those around you. Do your best to do an act of kindness towards yourself and others daily. Lets create a world based on this principle.

Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love. Lao-Tzu

Innsaei – The Sea Within

Image result for deep intuition quotes images

Intuition is seeing with the soul. –Dean Koontz

It was a few years ago, when I watched a documentary called Innsaei on Netflix. It is no coincidence that I recently found this article on an old laptop. It was a frigid winter’s day in 2018, and I was feeling under the weather. A cold was brewing and my soul needed tending on every level. During times when a cold emerges – it’s time to go inwards and be still. On this particular day, I stumbled upon a Netflix documentary that spoke to the soul. Innsaei, written by Hrund Gunnstiensdottir and Kristin Olafsdottir from Iceland. At that precise moment, everything made sense – intuition is always working on your behalf.

Innsaei is an Icelandic term – translates to seeing from the inside out. The sea within – to perceive yourself. The documentary was about soul-searching and tuning into your intuition. The narrator was sharing her own personal legend. The questions I pose to you – how would life unfold if you let go of distractions, inner dialogue and most importantly stress? This is exactly what inspired her to write this documentary.

The film begins with Hrund, leaving a career indefinitely with the United Nations. She felt the UN was keeping her back from the life path she was intended for. Hrund wanted to connect with people. Share their stories, visions and perception on living a holistic life. This brave soul was choosing to go against the grain, leaving the conventional. The documentary intertwines the arts, spirituality, psychology, and education.

The filmmaker’s compelling narrative was a masterpiece. Something that I needed to hear on that particular day. Her burnout, disconnect from her workplace created space for opportunities. One could sense, she lost purpose with serving a system of bureaucracy and financial rewards. Her heart was interested in serving humanity – Mother Earth.

The Narrator left her lucrative job and dove into the unfamiliar. I know for many of us, the unknown can be daunting or even terrifying. You are in the uncomfortable and the only thing to do is surrender to divine grace. The void of the unknown is where transformation begins. There was a vision the filmmaker had which propelled her life forward. At the age of 60, she would travel the entire globe. Her desire was to meet people and inspire humanity. She was going to be the writer she dreamt of being, collecting stories and uniting hearts. The realization was the United Nations career no longer kept her motivated. It was time to move onto something new.

Practice listening to your intuition, your inner voice; ask questions; be curious; see what you see; hear what you hear; and then act upon what you know to be true. These intuitive powers were given to your soul at birth. —Clarissa Pinkola Estés

What is Intuition:

Intuition is your inner source of guidance. When you are in a state of equanimity and flow your intuition begins to whisper. It is that gut feeling you have about a particular situation, person or circumstance. The quiet voice within, that you may disregard is spirit talking to you. There are times when I have not listened to my intuition, however experiences became blessings in disguise.

The narrator traveled around the world to find the true meaning of intuition, and why we should use this inner intelligence to govern our lives. Here are three enlightening stories you may connect to with regards to intuition.

Interview with Malidoma Patrice, West African Leader/Elder

Malidoma Patrice, believed that Mother Earth is a symbol of the wound that all which live in it. Nature is a silent witness of intuition. Nature speaks in all kinds of languages. Our eyes, and ears are to hear and see, something that we often disregard. The sense of the internal. What is blocking us is the world noise of distractions. Nature is how we ignite our intuition. “Intuition binds us together” every human being.

Marina Abramovic – Grandmother of Performing Arts

Marina Abramovic, known as a Visual Arts Medium. She is a performance artist, writer and filmmaker. She uses her body to connect to emotions and the audience. Her message is to confront pain by observation and focus. Abramovic, teaches that ‘in order to create something new, human beings need to go into the unknown”. Intuition is something not to be afraid of. We all have inner gifts inside waiting to be expressed. Whether you are an artist, chef, poet or composer, your talents impact the world. Release your fears, honour your talents, you give others the courage to pursue their calling.

British School – Mindfulness

The narrator went to a school in the United Kingdom. Here she was shown how moments of mindfulness impact the behaviour and attitude of students. It was a new way of learning, as facilitators incorporated breathing practices, meditation and yoga into education. Children, even adults need time to breathe, connect with their hearts and have moments of stillness. The element of mindfulness allows one to be fully present in a state of peace.

What this documentary gave me was clarity. That everyone has their own unique timeline. Life unfolds the way it is supposed to. Focus on your daily objectives, wins and things which touch your spirit. It is never about anyone else but you. Suffering brings you closer to the higher-power for a reason. You need to create space for faith and your vision. Intuition is connecting to your higher self, it will never lead you astray. If you are at a crossroads in your life, may the next step elevate you towards your dream Allow the forces of nature to guide you, remember to seek within.

Come from the heart, the true heart, not the head. When in doubt, choose the heart. This does not mean to deny your own experiences and that which you have empirically learned through the years. It means to trust yourself to integrate intuition and experience. There is a balance, a harmony to be nurtured, between the head and the heart. When the intuition rings clear and true, loving impulses are favored. –Brian Weiss

The Divine Essence of Nature

Love the world as your own self; then you can truly care for all things – Lao Tzu

The year 2020 was a period of inner awakening and reflection. Not a single person anticipated Covid-19 or a global lock-down. Life was placed on pause for all of humanity. Visiting your family, going to work, dramatically shifted. Communicating via online resources, is how everyone stays connected. Social distancing and masks have become somewhat the norm for the mass.

We are living in a new timeline on Earth and unaware of what lies ahead. We may be fearful of what is to transpire, however life can only get better from this moment forward. There are also many blessings from Covid. I often question, how did this all happen? Has Mother Earth been trying to get our attention all along? What comes to mind is nature, how can we learn from the elements of the earth? If we listen intently, they speak to our soul.

Moon

First and foremost I am a Moon child, born under the sign of Cancer. The Cancer sign is governed by the moon. The moon is Yin energy, associated with the Divine Feminine. When a Full Moon occurs, it is a time of retreat. The themes of forgiveness, self-compassion and surrender are apparent during the transition to the full-moon. The luminous moon is an elixir of dark and light. As the moon enters different phases, human beings feel the gravitational pull as well. The moon is asking you to honor where you are, and nurture your being.

Sun

“Here comes the sun, and I say its all right” Beautiful lyrics sung by the infamous Beatles. The sun is known to have masculine Yang energy. It is that inner fire within your soul. Correlated to the solar chakra, which represents confidence, will-power, strength and more. Do you ever notice when the sun shines, it brightens your day? The sun gives light to the earth, helps with growth and vegetation and showers us with vitamin D. The sun can be seen as a force so powerful, one can not comprehend its magnitude.

Water

Water fluid, ever changing and representing the veins of Gaia. Water represents our emotions. The veins of water are oceans, lakes, streams and rivers. With Covid how have you been, emotionally and spiritually? Are you able to flow with everything or have resistance. The more you can flow with life and surrender, it creates space for change. Remember, water represents 70% of your body. The more water you drink, it aids with nourishing your inner temple.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit –Ralph Waldo Emerson

Air

Historically the element of air is associated with new beginnings, creativity and intelligence. When the forces of wind are roaring in the air, Mother Nature is trying to get our attention. Could it be the wisdom of our ancestors speaking to us through the wind? Perhaps, whispering messages for us to decipher or understand. Have you ever heard that expression, spring is in the air? Air is what we breathe in each day, gives us vitality. Spring air brings in expansion, similar to all seasons. The question is, are you listening?

Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature — the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter — Rachel Carson

Fire

Fire is depicted as a masculine energy, providing light and transformation. It starts out as a flame and has the capacity to burn anything which comes in its way. Fire represents strength as there is a power in the flame. It could be seen as a destroyer of the darkness. This element takes out the old and brings in the new. Fire is a force to be reckoned with.

Earth

Earth energy is stillness, life and rebirth. It is grounding, nurturing and wise. By planting your feet outside on the earth you are healing. There are many who noticed a shift during 2019 and the beginning of 2020. On a personal level, my soul felt tired. I was feeling lethargic, sensed I needed to rest. I was not angry when Covid occurred. I recognized it as a time of healing the spirit. SELF-CARE became a priority for many. There were many signs that Gaia was tired. During 2019 Mama Earth, experienced wildfires in Australia and drought along with floods in the USA. The fires may have been her anger, the floods her tears. We needed to listen. Earth, if you interchange the words – becomes Heart. One could assume, the Divine Earth is the heart of everything.

What have you Learned from Covid?

The earth is the foundation to everything. My firm belief is that we needed to go back to basics. Be love, shine love, be an expression of love. Nature is our source of healing, by being outdoors our senses are heightened and soul expanded. Family time is something to never take for granted. The value of making your meals and sitting with family is golden. Memories that are irreplaceable. Many realize that they require less to be happy. Relationships have been tested and jobs as well. However, there is balance.

In hindsight, could it be possible that collectively a break was given to us, to reflect? To converse with your inner self and higher power? I am a firm believer that everything happens for our highest good. There is much to learn from 2020 on an individual and collective level. Gaia is teaching valuable life lessons, we were finally listening to the frequencies. The strongest energetic vibration is love.

We need the tonic of wildness…At the same time that we are earnest to explore and learn all things, we require that all things be mysterious and unexplorable, that land and sea be indefinitely wild, unsurveyed and unfathomed by us because unfathomable. We can never have enough of nature — Henry David Thoreau