Reflections of Travels

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page
– Saint Augustine

The year of 2024, was my year of travel! In March 2024, I was guided to Hamburg, Germany. By the summer, the destination was Lisbon, Portugal for a family trip. When one travels, there is often a feeling of freedom, possibility and to dream. An underlying expectation that each journey will be full of positive experiences, people and culture. However, what does one do when this expectation is not fulfilled?

What guided me to Hamburg, Germany? It was my sister whom I was to visit in Germany. Her family are expats and have lived all over the world. Truly an enriching way to live life! Germany is a country that piqued my curiosity. Historically I knew one day I would venture to this vast land. Hamburg was like a European suburb. It offered an aesthetic of culture, innovative architecture and was surrounded by the sea.

Visiting my sister was an enriching experience. This trip was preordained, as I felt we were supposed to help one another heal and evolve. The reality was, we let our vulnerabilities be seen, spoke from the soul and showed up as ourselves. Germany, especially Hamburg, actually shattered my soul. I am a “wanderlust” and this was hard for me to grasp. The reality of this vacation was that I experienced a cold culture and racial tension. I was not accepted, as I am a visible minority. I became quiet and had to go inwards for reflection. I admire my sister as she has learned German, become resilient by being in another country and has found her way. I am certain there are many individuals who have experienced what I had. Gratitude, counting my daily blessings kept my overall energy intact.

I have always been an avid reader, books are my source of inspiration. I picked up a few novels before heading abroad. I read an incredible novel called “Brida” – by Paulo Coelho. This novel assisted with understanding my soul, I never knew about. That there is a light which always shines no matter what circumstances are thrown our way. The narrative was depicted in Ireland. The storyline was centered around a young woman who was discovering her innate healing gifts – as a new age witch. I have always been drawn to Ireland and know I will venture there at the precise timing.

When you find your path, you must not be afraid. You need to have sufficient courage to make mistakes. Disappointment, defeat, and despair are the tools God uses to show us the way
― Paulo Coelho, Brida

During my travels to Germany – prayer, yoga, meditation and listening to the channeling of Kyron helped me stay nourished. My perspective was that the world is changing and kindness will always prevail. Love needed to be sprinkled on Hamburg. I ventured to Berlin which was a breath of fresh air. My sister and I traveled by train, the European way! We visited galleries, ate beautiful food and saw historical monuments that were embedded deep into my soul.

Travel light, live light, spread the light, be the light. – Yogi Bhajan

By July the forces of nature brought me to Lisbon for a family reunion. The energy of Portugal was of light heartedness. I had never been to Portugal and being by the ocean was a healing experience. The moment I stepped off the airplane in Portugal, I knew instantaneously that this would be a unique adventure. The people, history and climate was entrenched with love. You could not help but feel a sense of awe everywhere you went. We celebrated my Mother’s 75^th Birthday, ate Portuguese tarts daily and ventured to cities close by. I felt carefree, alive and one with life. Portugal, had a lasting imprint not only on myself but with the entire family. Portugal felt like a hug for the soul, one could feel a vibration of spiritual energy.

Live your life by a compass, not a clock – Stephen Covey

Traveling to Europe last year brought contrasting energies. Germany was eye opening and had a deeper significance. The influence of migration and the socio-political structure has shifted the country not only in Germany but worldwide. I acknowledge that my expectations were not met, and that is ok. I was vulnerable, suffering and kept faith. That one experience will not hinder me from going back. As I am drawn to water, it felt that I was being restored. The universe propelled me to Germany to shine light on a country that needed love. I too had to shed old skin and grow. The relationship with myself was being replenished. Portugal in hindsight was the re-birthing of a new version of who I am. As I felt my soul shattered in Germany, in Portugal I collected those pieces like a tapestry and wove them together.

Our souls are drawn to certain cities, countries and continents for a divine reason unbeknownst to us at the time. Be it past-life or curiosity, there is something mystical with traveling. The soul holds an invisible compass that guides one to particular places. For anyone who is a wanderlust, or a carefree soul – do not let anyone or anything dim your light. Allow this powerful phrase from Mel Robbins to guide you on your way in life – “Let them”.

Your relationship with yourself is the foundation for everything in your life
― Mel Robbins

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

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

Heal the Pain – George Michael

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Let me tell you a secret
Put it in your heart and then keep it
Something that I want you to know
Do something for me
Listen to my simple story
And maybe we’ll have something to show

You tell me you’re cold on the inside
How can the outside world
Be a place that your heart can embrace
Be good to yourself
Because nobody else
Has the power to make you happy

How can I help you
Please let me try to
I can heal the pain
That you’re feeling inside
Whenever you want me
You know that I will be
Waiting for the day
That you say you’ll be mine

He must have really hurt you
To make you say the things that you do
He must have really hurt you
To make those pretty eyes look so blue

He must have known
That he could
That you’d never leave him
Now you can’t see my love is good
And that I’m not him

How can I help you
Please let me try to
I can heal the pain
Won’t you let me inside
Whenever you want me
You know that I will be
Waiting for the day
That you say you’ll be mine

Won’t you let me in
Let this love begin
Won’t you show me your heart now
I’ll be good to you
I can make this thing true
Show me that heart right now

Who needs a lover
That can’t be a friend
Something tells me I’m the one you’ve been looking for
If you ever should see him again
Won’t you tell him you’ve found someone who gives you more

Someone who will protect you
Love and respect you
All those things
That he never could bring to you
Like I do
Or rather I would
Won’t you show me your heart
Like you should

How can I help you
Please let me try to
I can heal the pain
That you’re feeling inside
Whenever you want me
You know that I will be
Waiting for the day
That you say you’ll be mine

Won’t you let me in
Let this love begin
Won’t you show me your heart now
I’ll be good to you
I can make this thing true
And get to your heart somehow

A HEART warming song by the late George Michael. Remember to love yourself each and everyday of your beautiful, glorious life!! xoxo

Quote – Brene Brown

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A beautiful excerpt from Brene Brown – its time to show up for

your life to LIVE & SHINE!

The Pursuit of Happiness

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Still a dreamer, yet more of a realist than ever before, I knew this was my time to sail. On the horizon I saw the shining future, as before. The difference now was that I felt the wind at my back. I was ready.
—Chris Gardner, The Pursuit of Happyness

In the moment of conception, we enter into this world alone unaware of what is happening around us. We are oblivious to our surroundings, and of all the newness that is about to occur. The five senses—taste, sight, touch, smell and hearing become a journey of discovery throughout the aging process as children. We are at complete peace, oneness with the experience of life.

There is such an innocence and pureness when we are young. Happiness, confidence and self-worth are etched into our core. We are fearless, speak our mind and have no concern to what others think about us. There is a sense of resilience and creativity is what makes the soul blossom. We see at a young age how children are painters, chefs, writers and teachers. As one develops from being a toddler to adolescence and finally an adult there are many twists and turns. We sometimes forget who we once were and what truly made us content.

Let us liberate ourselves from any form of control. Let us focus at the inner drum, where the rhythm aligns with that of our heart. The measure of responsibility, equals to the need for evolution. Just listen, the inner child, let it whisper in your ear.
—Grigoris Deoudis

Are we born happy or do we have to work at it? Is it a conscious choice we make? These are the questions that have been pondering over the past few months. I believe happiness is an internal process and there are times we have to work towards creating it. There are numerous times when I would mask emotions of fear, anger or envy in order to keep that happy momentum. I was not being authentic whatsoever, and felt like I was avoiding parts of myself. I do believe happiness comes naturally when we are in alignment and we follow our hearts desires. When those moments happen, I bask in them and remind myself of the simple pleasures of life.

Our we a product of our environment and does epigenetics play a role in our development? I’m in no way a physician, however believe we absorb characteristics from our family relationships that determine some of our innate behaviours. Becoming an emotionally intelligent adult is clearing those blockages and experiences we endured as children. We are cleansing our spirits as we gain self awareness and personal power. We may blame our parents however there will be a time that you will see them as your teachers who gave you unconditional love. As they say the spiritual journey is coming home to yourself.

As we get older finish our education and follow a certain path, we live a certain way even though internally we have a deeper longing. We get caught up in the routine, work-life balance and forget about the importance of connecting to others. Is happiness in a job, car, relationship, or material status? Is that what makes life meaningful or is there something more?

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.
—Albert Camus

There is something more! I attended a Buddhist Monk Meditation in February and it gave me the direction I have been seeking, along with inspiration for the remainder of this article. What I learned from that significant meditation is that INNER PEACE = HAPPINESS! Meditation brings you back to your core of who you are and that stillness is the key to your happiness. I’m in the process of applying the principle of non-attachment to situations and outcomes . By just being still is the source to happiness.

Here is insight from the meditation session that has ignited clarity into my life:

We all have attachments, fears unfilled desires and this creates inner turmoil. Breathe into your discomfort and surrender. Inhale white light and exhale black particles that do not serve you

When you are wavering into anxiety or stress learn to get touch with your feelings

You have all the wisdom and knowledge within, when you meditate answers appear

Stop going outside yourself and trust your divinity

Stay close to the centre of your heart, the mind is like a diamond, nurture it, feed it and water it with love

Let go of expectations to the way you think life should be and be so engrossed in the presence

Appreciate silence, it is connected to your soul

Love and self-love is the antidote you are seeking

I leave you with the story of Gautama Buddha. He was born into a wealthy upper class family in India surrounded by prestige and influence. Buddha was inquisitive spirit and knew there was a deeper meaning to life and would ultimately forge his own path. One day, he decided to leave and became a humble man who lived the life of ascetic. As Buddha detached from everything, is when he felt truly rich. Meditation, prayer and living a simple life is what transformed his soul. Remember its your internal happiness that makes your soul light up just like the stars in the galaxy.

Is there a simple remedy for happiness? Why are we always searching? The concept of searching finally made sense – I had an epiphany! Happiness is not a destination, its a choice we make daily. It truly is the little things which add up to making us smile. Come back to your inner child, remember who you once were at that young age. Embrace that care-free, radiant soul who lived in pure joy. Make time and space for mediation, the more you practice you will settle into peace.

The greatest achievement is selflessness.
The greatest worth is self-mastery.
The greatest quality is seeking to serve others.
The greatest precept is continual awareness.
The greatest medicine is the emptiness of everything.
The greatest action is not conforming with the worlds ways.
The greatest magic is transmuting the passions.
The greatest generosity is non-attachment.
The greatest goodness is a peaceful mind.
The greatest patience is humility.
The greatest effort is not concerned with results.
The greatest meditation is a mind that lets go.
The greatest wisdom is seeing through appearances.

–Atisa

Life of an Empath Soul

You are a being of immense depth, wisdom, and compassion. You are a pioneer and trailblazer of humanity, a model for others on how to be sensitive and powerful. All the strength and love you need is already within you, waiting to be discovered. —Mateo Sol

This article is dedicated for anyone who is known as an “Empath Soul”. Since childhood and for most of my adult life, I have always been an sensitive individual. Always feeling highly emotional in particular situations in and unaware of why this occurs. I can be watching movies, commercials and sometimes particular songs can evoke emotions to surface.

I have often felt that something is wrong with me and emotions are running my life! I cannot hear personal stories or accounts of others without being emotionally invested. Its my heart that displays compassion for what anyone is experiencing. I tend to have tears forming in my eyes when seeing anyone struggle or in pain. I viewed being a sensitive soul was a weakness until I started reading and understanding with an empath soul truly is, it is my greatest quality!

What is an Empath Soul?

An empath soul is a highly intuitive individual that feels absolutely everything from being individually or collectively. You are highly evolved spiritual being, who is affected by energy of other people including there thoughts or behaviours. The term collectively means that you and many others absorb energy that may not be of your experience. For example, in the month of August 2017 there was a full moon and a solar ellipse occurred. If you are an empath soul, you were feeling this intensity all around you. You are sensitive to these energies, however with the right healing modalities can find balance.

You can walk into a room and sense the energy of people and surroundings. You are highly in tune to the energy or vibrations that are the closest to you. It’s almost like you are a radio and sense frequencies that come off from others around you. It is integral to take care of yourself daily and be grounded at all times. What does grounding mean? Grounding is coming back to your source energy, breathing into what is occurring and allowing yourself to remain calm in any situation. When things are happening politically or on a global scale I can sense a shift in the air. Fear, negativity and uncertainty is felt right away. I know there are many of us who had similar experiences. I want to let you know this your greatest “gift”.

One of the greatest advantages of being an empath is that experiencing a spiritual awakening is virtually inevitable. In other words, spiritually awakening seems to be written into our DNA. — Aletheia Luna

You are the one, people turn to for love, guidance and reassurance. You my dear are special to humanity and your light is needed. That heart of yours if full of compassion and if you are like me you just want to see everyone happy and fulfilled. The higher power has placed you on earth for a purpose . You are a miracle worker who people flock to in times of need, as many just want to be heard. You allow others to see that vulnerability is being human and that it creates a gateway to heal.

Your compassionate heart is unlike anyone else, by just being you, it lifts others. Like that old saying goes “you would take the skin off your back to help someone else in need”. YOU do this countless times because of your heart! There are times when burn out may occur – make sure you are are taking care of yourself and your soul. What does that exactly mean? Be good to your spirit! Light a candle, say a prayer, or meditate if someone is in need of guidance. Get yourself centred first before sharing your sacred space with others.

When you start to develop your powers of empathy and imagination, the whole world opens up to you. –Susan Sarandon

How to protect your energy:

Give to yourself in any way or form! That means treat yourself to something daily. Self-care is integral when being an empath soul. Pick yourself flowers, take a walk in nature or treat yourself to a cup of tea. Surround yourself with protective white light to shield yourself from any type of unwanted energies. On a side note there is not day I don’t drink a cup of tea. I have afternoon tea everyday it’s almost like a ritual and it honestly is like have a cup of positivity! It does not have to be a material item however just invest in yourself.

You are a miracle to humanity, embrace being an empath soul! Your gifts are needed in this world. Being a highly emotional and sensitive spirit is your way of sharing your divine nature! If everyone was the same life would be a bore, by you being a empath it allows others to seek your guidance and wisdom. Contrast is here to serve the higher good. Honor your ability and get ready to shine, you have a quest to fulfill!

Sitting with Vulnerability

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Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light. – Brene Brown

In the past, when I would hear the word vulnerability I automatically would have thought of imperfection or a loss of power, a sign of weakness . I was told to watch a Ted Talk by Bene Browne regarding vulnerability, shame and guilt. For many of us its hard to admit we have these emotions and to come to terms with these feelings. The video really had a lasting impact on me and after having a conversation with family and friends felt propelled to write on this topic.

For the longest time I thought being vulnerable was something to be ashamed of. It had negative connotations and no room in my life. If I was in a vulnerable state than I was not being spiritual and I could not let that happen now—Was I ever wrong!

Vulnerability is being authentic, really honoring how and why you feel a certain way. If I admitted to being vulnerable, it meant that everyone would know I get insecure and a not miss positive pants. It was as if I was masking my true-self and was too afraid to explore what was really going on internally. I was more concerned about what would people say and think. The most important lesson I have learned is that its perfectly normal to feel these deep rooted emotions. Its a healing to allow them to surface, understand them and move forward one step at a time.

I now know that there is nothing wrong with being vulnerable. Its acceptance of what is happening in our present circumstances. Being vulnerable is a gateway to more. It means you are human. There will be times of fear, anguish and challenges however, once we admit to those feelings is when the dust settles. It will be scary and sometimes you will have to face the darkness you so want to avoid. Once we are open to being vulnerable balance is restored. A gleaming light will be exposed, your soul is lighter and you are ready to transcend.

It is empowering to to move forward after one understands what they are experiencing. Vulnerability is not a setback but a triumph the you are growing, sowing the seeds you have planted and searching for all that you deserve. My dear souls be vulnerable, and know that it is a process. You are evolving into the person you are meant to be. You are a masterpiece, Osho’s quote exemplify this so well, “Drop the idea of becoming someone, because you are already a masterpiece. You cannot be improved. You have only to come to it, to know it, to realize it. “ . You are unfolding into the grandest version of you!

What I have learned is that even though I have vulnerable points in life, its about seeing this a time of inner reflection and rebirth. It always comes back to self-love and self-care! Are you giving yourself enough time and attention? Loving oneself is the necessary ingredient to changing your circumstances and creating a chain reaction of blessings that are right at your doorstop!

You haven’t yet opened your heart fully, to life, to each moment. The peaceful warrior’s way is not about invulnerability, but absolute vulnerability–to the world, to life, and to the Presence you felt. All along I’ve shown you by example that a warrior’s life is not about imagined perfection or victory; it is about love. Love is a warrior’s sword; wherever it cuts, it gives life, not death. –Dan Millman