LOVE

The Place To Be

2009-12-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

Do not go to a place where you are tolerated, go to a place where you are CELEBRATED. Sometimes we don't do well in a certain place because we are supposed to move to another state or even another country. Think of it this way. If you're fishing in a lake but there are hardly no fish to catch, maybe you need to go to another lake where there are plenty more. Don't stay stuck in an environment hoping for things to change. Sometimes, the solution is for you to go somewhere else where there is more opportunity for growth. If you are experiencing any type of financial drought or loss of energy, it may be because God is trying to tell you something. When you are in the "place" where you belong, all kinds of blessings will occur. So don't stay somewhere that is not benefitting you abundantly and triumphantly. Leave that place and travel to a new land where you will blossom tremendously. Where the people, places and things will not only accept you, but will love you and add to your spiritual expansion. And by the way, keep this in mind: Polar Bears wouldn't survive in Puerto Rico because it is a hot climate, just like Alligators wouldn't survive in the North Pole because it is a cold climate. Therefore, if animals instinctively know that they thrive in certain environments, then humans should know that too. But humans are just a little more complex than animals are, given our brain to weigh out options and exercise our free will with, and so it's not enough to just be where we are. We have to think, analyze, and "decide" upon where we will walk towards.

Don't Take Anything Personal

2009-12-29T16:11:00.000-08:00

I have to admit, that there's been times I've met people who've rubbed me the wrong way. Sometimes it's because they made an unpleasant comment, but sometimes it's also because they said nothing at all. I'm guilty of feeling an eery vibe from a stranger without even having any proof of why I dislike them in the first place. And how can I be that way? How can I judge a person I do not know? However, on the contrary, sometimes we think we know a great and wonderful person but suddenly after ten years, we discover a horrific truth about them and wonder, "How did I miss that?"

I'm a sucker for angel cards that convey positive messages. (They've been my replacement for Tarot Cards) And one day I pulled up this card entitled, SEE ONLY LOVE.

SEE ONLY LOVE: "Look past the seeming errors, mistakes, and misunderstandings, and see only the love within each person (including yourself). Your resolute focus upon the love that underlies every situation brings about healing in undreamed-of ways."

The angels gave you this card as a reminder to see yourself, others, and every situation through their eyes. When you focus on love, anything that's unloving falls away. It's like turning on a light to diminish the previous darkness. Call upon the angels whenever you need help to elevate your vision to a more loving vantage point.
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Now I know that was just a card, and not everyone uses this as a tool for meditation or prayer, however, the point of view makes perfect sense... in a perfect world, but I'm no fool. It can be difficult looking past someone's flaws. If let's say they roll their eyes at you, push you without saying "excuse me," greet everyone in a room except for you, and basically make it very obvious that they are being rude to you, how do you find the strength to extend kindness to them without feeling disrespected? Again, reread that card entitled, SEE ONLY LOVE.

What I understand is this. There's a reason for everything, right? Cause and effect? So whether or not you did something wrong, maybe the reason we catch bad vibes from people is because in our gut, we know that there is some form of pain, anger, resentment or jealousy coming from a specific person. But that doesn't necessarily mean that it has anything to do with you. Sometimes we have to remember this one simple strategy: DON'T TAKE ANYTHING PERSONAL. Sometimes people carry a bad aura because they've been through very unfortunate events, and whether or not you contributed to their unhappiness has nothing to do with how they choose to act or behave. Some people are cold hearted while some are warm. Some people are rude while others are polite. And some people are extremely understanding while others are unforgiving. But it's not so much about "other" people. It's more about "you." How you choose to react to certain situations and people is a testimony to your true character.

Our intuition is our spiritual guide that is similar to a compass. It sees beyond what we cannot and directs us towards people, places and things that is for our divine benefit. So sometimes we may catch a bad vibe from a new person we meet because our intuition is warning us to keep away. If that is the case, do not entertain it by judging or feeding it more of your time and energy. I also notice that sometimes the people we seem not to like or connect with (even our enemies), are actually our best teachers. And the reason for it is that they're testing us on every level. They are testing our patience, our tolerance, our compassion, our social skills, etc. If someone wrongs you even just a tiny bit through body language, it is not to take personally. You must protect your inner light by refraining from joining the misery of gossiping, giving the cold shoulder and/or returning dirty looks. It's called having the wisdom to discern right from wrong, and being the bigger person by taking the higher road.

So yes, sometimes I have to check myself. I've met people that I have instantly clicked with, and yet I've also met people that I've wanted to keep away from. Now whether or not I have enough information to judge someone after knowing them a few minutes, a day, or even just a week, people are instinctual and we do feel when we belong somewhere and when we don't. We know when something flows and feels right, and we also know when something is not the best thing for us.

But then we ask ourselves, how do we befriend someone or marry someone that we thought we knew, and yet five years down the line we discover an ugly side to them that we never knew existed? How did we become fooled?

I believe that we always know when someone is good or bad for us, but sometimes we tend to ignore the signs and we choose to see the things that we want to see. The truth is that we have to trust our intuition, and if it steers us away from interacting with certain people than we should listen and keep our distance. Not be blinded by superficial reasons, being drawn to people and places for all the wrong reasons like glitz and glamour, filling the void of loneliness and/or to be accepted into some group or organization. Although it's not for us to judge and/or condemn, it's for us to realize that our life mission may not include everyone and everything in this world. There are some people whom we cross paths with to help us along our journey, and yet there are others who we should think twice about before getting involved in drama which might hold us back and/or even steer us off our intended destination. So when you have a funny feeling about a specific person, group of people or situation, look deep within your heart before feeling as if you don't like them. Meditate and focus on your own spiritual journey, and try to feel out why you meet the types of people you do in the first place. Are they there to teach you a hard lesson, or do they even hold any significance at all in your life? Maybe they do, maybe they don't, but the answer lies within. Eventually, if you learn to follow your intuition long enough, you'll know instinctively who to gravitate towards.

Born To Fly

2009-12-16T14:10:00.000-08:00

Babies are pure, with a power that is too often under rated due to their inexperience of life's challenges. For this reason I've created a blog to voice my opinions on the entity of love as though I still view the world from a child's eyes. Like raindrops from heaven, children enter this plane through a magical passageway which is connected to a higher source. Aside from developing inside of a woman's womb, their spiritual essence is invisible and yet still exists, growing larger within those nine months of conception. However, they bring with them somewhat of a predestined personality with physical features and special talents shared by the blood of their parents, and yet they have the gift of freewill to become something more once they interact amongst the rest of the world.

Children are special. All of them. Each and every single one. What frightens me is when we face difficult adults who've become hardened by past mistreatments. It's easy for us to run away from such creatures because they can create needless drama for others around them.

The other day I was riding the number 2 train in Manhattan. As it came to a stop, an old man slowly crossed the opened doors with his walker but it slipped from his grasp and fell in between the tracks which caused him to lose balance. Immediately, both his legs fell through the large space, leaving him trapped with only his head and arms above ground. He screamed for help so the train wouldn't close its doors and continue driving off which would've ripped him apart. Fortunately, a few other men came to his rescue by rushing to notify officials NOT to move the train and then safely lifted his body back up. Every minute of struggling to help this man was dreadfully fearful. However, as this man experienced a near death experience, I imagined him as a young boy. Who would've imagined that his life would've turned out this way? I didn't know his name but I knew he was homeless, angry, and that a foul stench lingered around him. Although a few good men assisted him, there were still others who made comments such as, "Why did this have to happen on my train?" or "Couldn't this sh*t have happened on the next train?" Consumed with their own agenda and where they had to be, they could've cared less about a man who almost tragically lost his life in front of their very own eyes.

Here's a question: Would they have been more sympathetic had it been a child down there yelling at the top of their lungs? Or had it been their own child? Or had it even been "THEMSELVES"?

Can't we remember that we were all once children too? And perhaps still are? Father time shows no mercy in pursuing the light of day; he moves forward. And so our bodies grow older and our features change. We evolve. Yet still, raindrops have no less of the same ingredients than the ocean does, for they are both water. Whether it's a massive amount or not, water is still water and people are still people: Babies, children, teens, adults and/or senior citizens.

So where are we going? You and I? Our children? Where are we leading them and how are we raising them? Or could it be that they are raising us? They're so much closer to the time spent with angels and to the source of unconditional love. Having just came from there, perhaps newborns have plenty to teach us through their body language. They get us to feed them, bathe them, dress them, shelter them and carry them without saying a word. However their facial expressions say it all - and how we can't stand to see a child cry? Why then, is it easier to walk away from adults, leaving them alone in their misery and troubles?

Mix the innocence of a child with the darker side of reality, and perhaps we can understand the purpose of light. For I do believe that every child was brought into this world as a light bringer, a torch that will lead one generation further than the last. Further and further until we remember that birds of a flock, flock together, which means that the entire human race (young, old and alike) were all born to fly.

Beauty

2009-12-01T14:38:00.000-08:00

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, right? Or is there only "one truth" and inside of that "one truth" is real beauty? I guess what I'm trying to say is that, maybe beauty is something that you have to find and when you do there's no denying it, no matter whose looking.

In my mind I envision beauty as a flower. Its pedals gracefully touching the other so that it may blossom into one entity, exuding a natural spring fragrance that enters my body soft and gently, healing my spirit as if I am part of a garden. However, that's only the beauty I find within a flower, but what about a human being? Where is the beauty in that?

Is beauty found in their crooked smile because it's so genuine and joyful? Or is a forced smile with sparkling white teeth a better look even though the person displaying it is dying inside? And perhaps even that is beautiful, the fact that someone is still trying to cheer up even though it's hard to do.

What is perfection? Is perfection love? And what is the perfect love?

A perfect love to me, is the perfect life. And the perfect life to me, is the life that has overcome its challenges and has transformed negativity into something greater. The purpose of living is to evolve and to grow. Grow like a flower, naturally without force.

With the rain, even storms... (Tropical ones are the best) and then grow from all of the nutrients that has been poured upon you. Why do we feel pain? Why do we cry? Maybe because there is some beauty in our hardships that make us bigger and brighter. More magnificent. Fuller. Thinner. Less aggressive and more sensitive, or less sensitive and more aggressive. Like a river that twirls around rocks, the water must part around it but still splash its essence wetting the rock so its polished effortlessly. Can that be beauty? The tears that we shed, the showers we take, the emotional release of speaking our minds, becoming more powerful and confident and yet still as graceful as the scent of a flower... because flowers just want to blossom. Perhaps that is beauty.

Goddess Path

2009-11-03T19:08:00.000-08:00

Every now and then I stumble upon a great statement or paragraph in a book and become compelled to share it. So here goes this one: THE GODDESS PATH, written by Patricia Monaghan.

The warrior strength of Athena is not based on aggression. Rather, she represents defensive strength, the ability to stand one's ground and not be moved. Yet the distinction between aggression and defense is an extraordinarily difficult one to make. It has been said that all wars are waged for defensive reasons; no nation will admit it intends to steal land or wealth (the usual reasons for wars) and so concocts a "threat" that makes invasion necessary. Similarly, individuals are rarely honest about their intentions to steal or harm others emotionally. A raped woman "asked for it" by wearing provocative clothing; a battered woman "asked for it" by not cooking the right dish for dinner. Aggression disguises itself as defense in the interpersonal as well as the international arenas. Thus Athena's wisdom is extremely important in learning to use defensive strength appropriately.
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Here is another great paragraph I read from another book entitled, "YOUR BEST LIFE NOW", written by Joel Osteen.

CHANGE THE CHANNEL

We all know how to use the remote control to change the channels on TV. If we see something we don't like, no big deal - we just flip channels. We need to learn how to mentally change channels when negative images of the past pop up in our minds unexpectedly. Unfortunately, when some people see those negative experiences on their minds' "screens," instead of quickly changing channels, they pull up a chair and get some popcorn, as though they're going to watch a good movie. They willingly allow themselves to relive all those hurts and pains. Then they wonder why they are depressed, upset, or discouraged.

Learn to change the channel. Don't let your mind or your emotions drag you down into despair. Instead, dwell on the good things God has done in your life.
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KINGS & QUEENS Have Boundaries

2009-10-31T12:18:00.000-07:00

They say, don't take but give.

I'd like to offer a clear and focused point of view from the subject of BOUNDARIES.

I do agree to give, give, give... But, what happens when someone you know constantly takes from you even when you don't have anything to give? In the most extreme case, it would be rape. To steal what you have not allowed for them to have.

Now on a lesser violent scale besides rape, what if someone takes away your energy by popping up every day at the same time when you specifically told them not to? But still, they disregard your wishes and show up anyway expecting you to open the door after you've explained to them earlier that you're tired and need your rest. "Oh don't be such an old fart," they say teasingly. But they don't just do this once, but constantly. And then laugh it off when you kindly explain to them why you need to be asleep.

BOUNDARIES...

There are many different levels of people stepping over your boundaries. From the most extreme cases of rape and violence, to the more silent killers which come in the form of MANIPULATION.

Manipulation is hard to prove because there are no physical bruises and/or pictures to take and prove that you have been violated or disrespected. When a person manipulates you, they always start by being sweet and nice, often times showering you with tons of compliments to make you feel "special". In this sense, now they've won your favor.

But because of that, now they think you OWE them something.

Thus, they will step over your boundaries as far as disregarding what is important to you.

ALWAYS KEEP THIS IN MIND: IF YOU DON'T STAND FOR SOMETHING, THEN YOU WILL FALL FOR ANYTHING.

And sometimes, people will fall for just about anything because it's better than being alone. So they'll fall under the spell of manipulation because at least they have a friend, a lover or a relative to be around. They'll excuse that person's ill or toxic behavior and say, "Well that's just the way they are."

But what about you? Who are you? And what do you stand for? What are you willing to accept and not accept?

Creating boundaries means having "self-love" and that is extremely important.

The nicest person on earth who buys you gifts, throws you birthday parties and showers you with compliments "all day - every day" can step over your boundaries if you don't stop them in their tracks because they think they have an upper hand. They think because they've done a number of good deeds for you that now they can have you wrapped around their finger and you'll drop whatever you're doing in a heartbeat when they snap their fingers. But the only person in control of your life is YOU.

Life is about choices.

And at the end of the day, you make your own choices and no one else can or should make them for you. (Unless you are self-destructive and someone cares enough to step in and take you out of your funk)

So if someone constantly oversteps your boundaries and belittles your wishes and concerns but you continue to allow it, then you have no one to blame but yourself because you have the power to walk away from them or shut them out. Yes, it's a clean-cut and simple decision. Either people will empower you or they will zap away your energy. What company do you want to keep?

But I am no heartless person. I know how difficult it can be to walk away from a person you love. Walking away from a husband or a wife, a mother or a father or a best friend is not that easy to do when you care deeply. You're always hoping for a solution and a win/win situation. You probably also hope to heal and overcome any obstacles that your relationship might encounter.

However, what I am suggesting is that life is about choices. And you can choose to allow someone else to keep taking, taking and taking away your dignity, or you can stop it by setting boundaries and protecting your own dignity AND integrity.

Remember that the light of love is not foggy or muddy, nor is it confused or fearful.

The light of love is crystal clear, wise, compassionate, confident and brave. Love does not fear rejection. Love does not seek approval. Love does not fear being alone because love is abundant and does not need to take.

So do not allow people to take from you what is not theirs to take. In other words, steal from you. Be it time, money, your physical body, emotional well-being or energy, etc.

Think of it this way. There are certain things you would probably not say to a King or Queen because you are in the presence of royalty, but in the presence of the common everyday man, you might be more loose with your words. But what I am suggesting is that we are all Kings and Queens, and the same respect that you would give to a person in a position of power is the same respect that we should all give to each other because we are all powerful entities. (Are we not all made in the image and likeness of God?) Yet unfortunately there are people who do not act as Kings and Queens because they have low self esteems. Perhaps someone beat down their self-worth when they were growing up with constant criticism along with other ill treatment. And now as an adult, they do not see or believe in their own potential so they want to strip away yours since they learned that behavior from someone else. If this is the case, it's unfortunate that the person is in pain but your guilt should not allow for you to stick around and continue to be their scapegoat or crutch. And although you might realize that their negative behavior may not be intentional, it doesn't excuse them to continue it because it's what they know. (They treat you the way they treat themselves) The point is for YOU to recognize it and know that just because someone else has a low self esteem does not mean that you should have a low self esteem too. And just because someone else does not prioritize their life with great value and respect, does not mean that you shouldn't either. Teach them something new by being an example of a healthy person who has boundaries and deserves to be respected.

So if you're on a different page as someone else but they desperately attempt for you to let them in when you continuously tell them that the answer is "NO," don't be afraid to let them go. (They should respect your answer, the same way you respect theirs.) Remember, we are all Kings and Queens including YOU! The difference is that some people are aware of their "self-worth" while others aren't. Some people are blossoming while others are closed up tightly, and so they might envy your vibrant outlook on life while belittling what's important to you, talking down to you, wanting to hang out late when you need your sleep, demanding more of your time so you miss out on other opportunities, degrading your accomplishments, embarrassing you in front of others, or expecting you to drop any and everything because they think that you should put their needs in front of your own.

That whole, if you can't beat 'em just join 'em thing - Well I say, I'd take being alone at the top (drama-free) over being miserable at the bottom. Patience is a virtue and eventually you'll attract high energy, clear and focused individuals like yourself even if it isn't many. Quality is better than quantity.

So do not allow anyone to pull you down, to try and convince you of their ways or brainwash you. Beware of manipulation - the silent killer with a sweet smile.

Do not stoop down to someone else's level to join them in what they call "quality time" if it means being at an "eye to eye" level with people who gossip, abuse drugs and toxins and/or live a self-destructive lifestyle.

Instead, create boundaries and have them rise up to your level if they so willingly choose too or just make a strong choice to disassociate with them all together. It's better to be a person of great influence, than a person who gets pulled into an unhealthy social web.

I'll leave it with one more example.

Jesus himself lost his temper and lashed out a wip when people disrespected a temple to do business deals in when he wanted to keep it as a sacred and holy space.

You see, what Jesus did was he created a boundary by showing that his temple was to be kept in a "certain way," and when people overstepped his boundaries, he got angry - because he would not allow for them to just have THEIR way.

IF YOU DON'T STAND FOR SOMETHING, THEN YOU WILL FALL FOR ANYTHING.

Most leaders of light walk alone. (Actually, we are all leaders if we remember that our free will is a gift that gives us the power to choose) Many of them dared to speak and live the truth although there were consequences to face, but because of their brave heart they pressed on...

Do not give in to pressures from society or manipulation from your peers, even if their constant praise makes you feel good or because you want and need to be accepted by family and friends. And if you do happen to lose friends because they don't respect your boundaries, than it's better to be alone for a while until you attract people who do respect your boundaries, and altogether you as a person. Remember, you are not a doormat. No one has the right to walk all over you so don't allow it. Put your foot down.

Set boundaries for yourself, and love yourself enough that if someone (or many people) overstep your boundaries, you can have the wisdom to discern right from wrong, and continue on your path by yourself if need be.

Have clarity and peace of mind.

If others do not have that and want to bring you down with them, just remember, that misery loves company.

So be strong, be bright and fly away freely.

Don't let anyone clip your wings, even if they do it unintentionally. Only you know what is best for you. And if you do let someone (or a group of people) clip your wings because you feel "guilty" about parting ways, you will regret it later on and begin to blame them for following them instead of being your own leader.

Believe in yourself. Create your own life. Where there is no door, CREATE A DOOR. Know your divine inner power and do NOT give it away to people who do not deserve it! Like I said before, although we are all Kings and Queens, some people are not aware of their divinity and so they might project "their" negative emotions onto you, which means, they do not deserve your time and energy until they are ready to interact in a "healthy" relationship.

And don't let anyone make you feel like you owe them something, and like you can't get up and leave if you want to.

We are not slaves nor prisoners to one another.

You are free to choose right from wrong, and to choose love or fear.

The greatest love of all is when you love yourself.

So do that, love yourself - and you will attract more loving individuals who love themselves as well.

Create the life you want to live.

Believe that you deserve the best.

And protect your god-given spirit with self-loving boundaries.

And remember, you do not own anyone, nor does anyone own you.

Be free from bondage.

Allow seasons to change and never fear moving on with life.

BLESSINGS & PROSPERITY: MAY YOU FLY HIGH WITH OTHER BRINGERS OF LIGHT.

SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND - SEARCH WITHIN.

The Animal Kingdom

2009-10-12T14:50:00.000-07:00

"A DOG IS A MAN'S BEST FRIEND." Haven't we all heard that saying? It's because dogs are loyal to their masters, and no matter what, they're always happy when their owner turns the key, practically jumping all over and licking him by the time he steps in through the door. But what happens when the owner trains his dog to be vicious like a fighting dog? Ever see a pit bull fight where the owners gamble on which dog will defeat the other? Then, is it still safe to say that a dog is a man's best friend, when that poor dog doesn't even know the difference between love and murder because he just faithfully obeys whatever his master tells him to do? I mean, as long as the dog is being fed and sheltered, what else does a dog know about a healthy relationship, right?

Sadly, the other day (And I can't give up too much information here) someone's rottweiler killed a little girl's poodle as she took it for its daily walk up the street. And to be exact, it was two rottweiler's attacking this dog until they tore it apart, still attacking it senselessly even after the poodle was already silently dead. The owner ran outside to stop his rottweilers from continuing but they kept on going and going and going, until the owner hit the dogs enough times with a shovel causing them to finally give up. Unfortunately I will never forget the horrific screams that the little girl gave for about twenty minutes as she witnessed her puppy being viciously pulled apart in front of her own eyes. The neighbors and I are at least thankful that the little girl wasn't touched, although now our greatest fear is that the next time it won't be a puppy that gets murdered, but it will be a child.

Although these dogs were kept inside of the owners gates, inside of his property when it happened (I believe the poodle either jumped over the front gates or got pulled in from underneath) I just wonder how those dogs got to be so vicious in the first place? And what I heard someone say once was this: Most animals reflect the behavior of their owner.

I remember a friend of mine who owned a big rottweiler growing up as a kid. His name was Buddy, and he was even bigger than the two dogs that attacked this poodle, but it was friendly. He wagged his tail at everyone who ever walked passed him, even if he didn't know you he was still friendly, sticking his long tongue out like a red carpet awaiting Kings and Queens. And I'm not just saying this because I was friends with his owner, but I remember people walking up and down the street safely and never being afraid of Buddy. Buddy was a harmless dog, amongst other people as well as other animals, and I suppose he was trained well.

Yet on the other hand, these two rottweilers who attacked this puppy are actually two out of five rottweilers that this pet owner has all living under the same roof. So I can't help but wonder, what has the owner been teaching them behind closed doors, and why does he have five dogs anyway? Isn't one or two enough? But since I'm only making assumptions, I don't want to judge what I do not know for a fact, although it raises my suspicions about relationships in general.

So whose fault is it anyway that the poodle died in such a horrific scene? He didn't die of old age, an illness, or crossing the street. He died in pain and agony by his very own species. And what I have come to conclude is that it is NOT the rottweilers faults because I've seen other's who are calm and playful amongst other types of dogs, even cats. I think what bothers me the most is that the owner must've raised them to be vicious. I have two cats myself and I lift them up, hugging them inside of my arms everyday. I never train them to run and catch mice, although I'm sure they would love to because it's in their nature. Yet instead I buy them toy mice and balls with bells. I just wonder why that owner has so MANY rottweilers and if it's even normal to have that many. It makes me wonder if they've even killed in the past, before he even moved into the neighborhood. (He's been here less than six months, and already this has happened) Whose to say what else will happen in a year or two if he plans to stay? Has he trained them to fight and kill? Why do his dogs go wild every time other dogs walk by? Dogs do sniff each other butts and bark at one another, sometimes even bite one another. But to actually kill, especially a small poodle? Why is it that other dogs of the same breed are calm, but these aren't? Is it in fact, the owner's intention to train them that way?

You know that saying, "You've created a monster?"

As human beings, we are responsible for anything that is smaller than us. It doesn't give us a free pass to take out our aggression on something that can't answer back to us. That's not fair. It should make us even that much MORE AWARE to read body language since animals can not verbally speak to us. We must know how they feel by the look in their eyes, the sounds they make, and the affection or violence they give. Taking care of smaller animals, be it dogs, cats, rabbits, birds and even fish, means being that much more attentive because they can not tell us when they're sick or angry or sad. It is our responsibility to make sure that they are happy, healthy and safe. And that goes for the poodle and the rottweilers. Any, and all dogs have a right to be with the right owner. Being loyal to just any master, just isn't good enough.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People

2009-10-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

My mother told me once, "I always taught you how to read, read, read...At least I know I did one thing right." Chuckling to myself, it's a funny comment but very true. Knowing how to spell, read and write is (to my belief) one of the most powerful tools that anyone can learn and possess! Moving forward, this book I've reread over and over again, THE 7 HABITS OF HIGHLY EFFECTIVE PEOPLE: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change, Written by Stephen R. Covey, is an absolute MUST-READ. In fact, it is so good, that it should be purchased and passed down to your children's and grandchildren's future generations. Here is an excerpt taken from page 263 that I feel compelled to share.

PRINCIPLES OF CREATIVE COOPERATION:

We obviously value the physical differences between men and women, husbands and wives. But what about the social, mental, and emotional differences? Could these differences not also be sources of creating new, exciting forms of life - creating an environment that is truly fulfilling for each person, that nurtures the self-esteem and self-worth of each, that creates opportunities for each to mature into independence and then gradually into interdependence? Could synergy not create a new script for the next generation - one that is more geared to service and contribution, and is less protective, less adversarial, less selfish; one that is more open, more trusting, more giving, and is less defensive, protective, and political; one that is more loving, more caring, and is less possessive and judgmental?

SYNERGISTIC COMMUNICATION:

Many people have not really experienced even a moderate degree of synergy in their family life or in other interactions. They've been trained and scripted into defensive and protective communications or into believing that life or other people can't be trusted. As a result, they are never really open to Habit 6, principles.
This represents one of the greatest tragedies and wastes in life, because so much potential remains untapped-completely undeveloped and unused. Ineffective people live day after day with unused potential. They experience synergy only in small, peripheral ways in their lives.
They may have memories of some unusual creative experiences, perhaps in athletics, where they were involved in a real team spirit for a period of time. Or perhaps they were in an emergency situation where people cooperated to an unusually high degree and submerged ego and pride in an effort to save someone's life or to produce a solution to a crisis.
To many, such events may seem unusual, almost out of character with life, even miraculous. But this is not so. These things can be produced regularly, consistently, almost daily in people's lives. But it requires enormous personal security and openness and a spirit of adventure.
Most of all, creative endeavors are somewhat unpredictable. They often seem ambiguous, hit-or-miss, trial and error. And unless people have a high tolerance for ambiguity and get their security from integrity to principles and inner values they find it unnerving and unpleasant to be involved in highly creative enterprises. Their need for structure, certainty and predictability is too high.

SYNERGY IN A CLASSROOM:

As a teacher, I have come to believe that many truly great classes teeter on the very edge of chaos. Synergy tests whether teachers and students are really open to the principle of the whole being greater than the sum of its parts.
There are times when neither the teacher nor the student knows for sure what's going to happen. In the beginning, there's a safe environment that enables people to be really open and to learn and listen to each other's ideas. Then comes brainstorming, where the spirit of evaluation is subordinated to the spirit of creativity, imaging, and intellectual networking. Then an absolutely unusual phenomenon begins to take place. The entire class is transformed with the excitement of a new thrust, a new idea, a new direction that's hard to define, yet it's almost palpable to the people involved.
Synergy is almost as if a group collectively agrees to subordinate old scripts and to write a new one.

********************************************************************************

That's all I took from the book, however, I encourage everyone to at least skim through the pages. I'm the first to understand that people have priorities and demands in their lives and although there are many hobbies we wish we had more time for, (like hitting the gym, taking yoga or a dance class) I found that reading a book on a subway, an airplane, a bus stop or in bed right before I fall asleep is truly worth it! If anything else, I hope this excerpt was enough to spark wisdom and happiness for a better way of living.

Angelic Reasoning

2009-10-04T13:21:00.000-07:00

Our fingers barely touched the oracle as it moved across the Parker Brother's wooden Ouija Board. Supposably, a ghost or a supernatural entity was trying to spell out messages so our human eyes could read them. We knew when a spirit was angry when it began circling around and around - almost spinning out of control. As a seven year old girl, I found this to be fascinating when my older relatives played the game around me, and perhaps still do since I'm reminiscing about it today. In fact, I've continued using the method to the madness, believing that I can channel energies like an electric current that travels through air waves when we speak through cell phones to people who are hundreds and thousands of miles away.

I found it not to be so different - our world connecting with theirs, the deceased and/or guardian angels that exist on a higher plane however, in the same space as us. I compare it to the ocean. I can dip my body in for a fresh swim, moving my legs and flapping my arms around fish and other sea dwellers, but I can't live in their environment. The same way dolphins and wales jump up for air, but they just can't live on our dry land either (unless they're inside a gigantic pool). I think we too as humans, can tap into a spiritual world where their energy exists in ways we're not accustomed to, just like ocean animals and plants. But there's just one strategy that I changed from when I used to play with that scary board, and it's that I don't use that board at all anymore!

What I use today are called "Angel Cards" in replacement for Tarot Cards, and although there is an "Angel Board" in replacement for the Ouija Board, I haven't yet invested in it - not really desiring to. Now I don't know for a FACT if a higher source contacts me through these cards or not, but I choose to believe that at certain moments when I'm in deep meditation, I can focus my energy on a prayer and concern and as I select a card from the deck, a positive message will await me in response to my faith. I don't think it is the only way to speak to an angel, but I believe it can be one out of many. If we live in a materialistic world, where all of us have a physical body with specific details and features to stimulate the visual parts of our brains, then why wouldn't there be actual physical tools to communicate with our angels besides just closing our eyes and praying at night?

Ever watch a Sci-Fi movie where a gifted person can lift spoons and forks without even touching them? He focuses his mind while staring at the object and with all his energy, he moves them across the room? Ever wonder, that if it's possible for us to even imagine doing such a thing for a movie, then perhaps we could actually do it one day in real life too? (WHATEVER THE MIND CAN CONCEIVE AND WILL BELIEVE, THE MIND WILL ACHIEVE - Napoleon Hill) And I'm talking GENERATIONS down the line, way after our grandchildren pass. In fact, our futuristic society might even suggest that this generation is barbaric in 2010, compared to how advanced they'll be to how we are now. And I'm not talking about having more machines, computers, cell phones and basically, technology. But I'm talking about having so much inner strength and power, where your mind opens up from using it at 12% to using it at 50%, (where we use half of our brains instead of less than a quarter)..... Going off topic....

Back to spirituality and "Angel Cards"....

No matter which card I choose, there's always a positive message, so I can't go wrong either way. But out of 44 cards, (which was created by Doreen Virtue, PH.D.) there are specific ones focused on either "Travel", "Marriage", "Letting Go of The Past", "Family", "Children", "Finances", "Blessing in Disguise", "Having Confidence", "Perfect Timing" and so on...

So if I just happen to be worried about losing my job, or how to get a promotion, or go about having a career change, and I actually choose a "Finance Card", "Entrepreneur Card", or "Creative Project Card", than that might actually be more than just coincidence. For example, this is what the "Creative Project Card" says:

"Your soul longs to express itself in creative ways. We're guiding you to infuse artistry and creativity into your life. Creative expression makes you feel alive and excited, and reignites passion toward your life."

Then they'll be additional meanings inside the small handbook which will read: This card says that you need more avenues for creative expression. The angels are guiding you to look for such outlets at work and at home. For example, write, play music, make crafts, paint, sew, or redecorate. It doesn't matter whether your artistry is market ready. What's important is that you allow your inner artist to enjoy freedom of expression.

- Work on a meaningful project that you've been procrastinating about.
- Enroll in a creative class such as photography or dance.
- Your life purpose and a meaningful career will come to you through creative ways that are unimaginable right now.

And that's an example of just one card. However, the entire deck is filled with only positive messages entailed with bright beautifully painted images. Could something from up above be communicating back to me the way the Ouija Board did? I can't say for certain, but I KNOW IT'S POSSIBLE. And are there even angels or entities that desire to watch over us in this life, trying to tap into our world whether it's through different forms of physical mediums such as cards, boards, or simply through our dreams? I guess first things first; YOU MUST BELIEVE, or no message will ever get through to you if you block it out.

Perhaps it can be frightening, to actually think you're speaking to something you can't physically see and prove. You might think you're talking to yourself or just imagining things, like a koo-koo bird. But what if we never built submarines to go into the deep blue sea, or built rocket ships that took trips to the moon believing that if you left the sky you'd disappear? Perhaps there is another world - another dimension that can see us although we can't see them. There are animals still undiscovered living in our world, so just imagine what else might be living in our homes if we could only use even a quarter more of our brain - if our senses were hightened and sharpened, and we could hear them. You know some animals have better hearing ability than us, and some such as cats have natural night vision. So if cats can see in the dark but we can't, imagine what else exists that we don't have the ability to see, touch, smell, hear and/or taste? I don't rule anything out a hundred percent. And although there may be some dark forces out there like in that famous Amityville true horror story, then perhaps there are also good forces out there that I'd like to connect with if I allow myself to open up to the fascinating "mysteries" of this world. Just maybe the world as it evolves, is now growing towards a spiritual revolution like we've never seen before.

Brother's and Sister's

2009-09-29T22:12:00.000-07:00

What does this mean: Blood is thicker than water? Does it mean that if I had to chose between a friend or a relative, then the one who shares the same last name comes first? But doesn't the very origin of a family begin with two strangers? I am my mother and father's flesh and blood, however, they were strangers when they met - complete strangers. Now imagine if they would've chose their families over being with one another? Or perhaps, what if they would've married one of their own, like "kissing cousins"?

What about those souls who have never known their biological mother or father, but someone else decided to step in and take care of them? If they had to chose between their biological mother or the woman who truly raised them, which should they chose?

Now I don't think it's fair to ever have to chose, so why do people do it? I for one, believe in the spiritual family. However, I think the biological family tree has its purpose in this physical world, although I also believe that every human relationship has a spiritual connection at the root as well. And one is not more significant than the other. They just play different roles.

Think about the woman who has children from 3 different fathers, or the man who has children by 3 different women. All of those children are related although they are technically referred to as "half brothers and half sisters", but isn't that a strange term to be called when they all came from the same woman's womb, or all share the same DNA from their father? All I know, is that if you were born from a different person, than you would not be YOU. So there has to be a divine reason as to why you were born through the physical parents you were born from, whether they were involved in your upbringing or not, you would be a totally different person all together. And I never believed that God made mistakes. Even the fact that you may have a parent who died while giving birth, or who moved away or left for whatever reason, that very absentee has affected and shaped you as a person. And I believe that our childhood upbringing is no accident. I believe that they prepare us for our future, and God, our heavenly father and mother, has planned this all out.

Call me crazy - but that's just what I believe.

Therefore, I believe in the spiritual family. When parents go to work, their children are left with teachers Monday through Friday from 9 am until 3 pm. In all fairness, can't we say that those teachers are part-time parents? And when we develop friendships with unique people who truly and really "get us", aren't those like sisters and brothers to us? Those friends who share all of our dirty little secrets, and celebrate good times with. I think sometimes we get confused with titles, the same way we do when we run to a police officer for help and they disappoint us because it turns out that the cop is a racist or a bigot. (Not suggesting that they all are) But sometimes we assume that because someone holds a specific title such as mother, father, sister, and brother, that it makes them family, and that friends and neighbors are less important. Like we should help a relative no matter what, but if a friend is in trouble, then it's not our problem.

Are we forgetting the very thing that makes us family are the strangers in whom we "expand" our families with? (Unless of course we want to marry our "kissing cousins") Family to me, has not so much to do with sharing the same last name and/or a similar blood line, but it has more to do with seeing the divinity in each human being - the link that ties us all together as a human family to accomplish our earthly tasks. I know that there is life after death. Perhaps not the life as we know it in this world - obviously. But I believe that death is a transition into another realm of existence because energy is infinite. Hence, our souls evolve. They don't rot and decay like our bodies that are flesh and meat. Our souls travel to this earth and give energy into this body to walk, talk and build many things such as bridges, tunnels, buildings, airplanes, electricity, etc... and guess who use's those things? STRANGERS WHO COME HERE IN THE FOLLOWING GENERATIONS AFTER WE LONG PASS OUT OF HERE.

How remarkable is that? That people who have invented some of the most wonderful tools have died hundreds of years ago, and we never met these people in person but we are benefiting from their ideas, and life is made easier because of them. Is that not family or what? When you drive across a bridge, or take a plane to go on your honeymoon, it's all because of a bunch of strangers who you may never get to meet, who created these things for our enjoyment.

So does it matter who we know, or who we don't know? Who shares the same last name, or who doesn't? There is some truth that our "immediate" families have the greatest impact on our growth as they are the one's we communicate with on a daily basis when we're infants and children, but as we spread our wings and fly out into this grand world made of seven great continents, can we remember that we're all in this together?

One simple action I make will effect one person in either a small way or a major way, but either way, my action will either inspire someone to do something great or to do something horrible because we all react to one another. At work, at school, at home and on vacation. No matter where we go, we all react to one another. So be good to that stranger, because he could become your husband, or your daughters husband, or the president, or a great inventor, or just another member of the tree of life. And that life, we are all connected to because in the end, we are all brothers and sisters.

Can't / Won't Forget

2009-09-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

As I type new words onto this blank screen, it reminds me of when I first fell in love with a stranger. At the time he was this "NEW" and "HEALING" force in my life, but now he's this ... negative in my heart, and I can't even develop our picture because he doesn't want to bring our memories back to life. So he's locked inside my chest, or in the pit of my stomach, or in the back of my mind, but wherever I hid this bright and colorful soul mate, he's still in my system. Although I finally decided to cry today.

How many people are divorced today, single, or just heart broken? I'm not saying nothing new. Even happily married couples have been wounded from past lovers. I guess it's just a real, natural part of growth and development - to experience conflict in a relationship, and sometimes even having to...Let go.

Why should my story be any different from yours? Though they're different paths we've walked, we've still ended up at the same destination: Heartbreak city. Chuckling now, I remember all the times I told myself that I was OVER IT. "I'm moving on", I'd say. But my closest friends and relatives knew me better than that.

I realized something today.

It's healthier to admit that I'm still in love with someone and to cry about it, then to hold it all in. Do you know how much toxic junk I've kept stored in my back and shoulders? When I cried earlier, I truly felt lighter - in a matter of minutes!

A load was lifted off my shoulders, and my chest slightly opened up. I breathed easier, and my mind was a little clearer. So what if he doesn't love me back? I know what I'm worth - even he does. But you just can't force someone to love you. Hasn't anyone wonderful ever loved you, but you just weren't feeling the same way? Well, it's like that. I was that wonderful person who would've been there no matter what obstacles presented themselves, but he chose not to accept my affection. It just wasn't what he wanted in his life at the time.

So just like the process of love is a natural thing, so is getting over someone. I can't speed it up just to portray myself as this strong woman who can do better all by myself. Who am I kidding? If I'm feeling sad, then I'm sad. (So long as I'm not depressed for long periods at a time) But I shouldn't feel guilty for missing someone, or think that it's a weak trait.

There's nothing weak about being human.

It takes more courage to live in your truth. And giving real love doesn't mean expecting it in return. Of course in a healthy relationship, the "giving and receiving" flows through the couple equally. But if the relationship came to an end, it's okay to still love that person, even if they don't love you back. Because love is love, and it's not about you. Love in its truest sense is to joyously give.

It actually feels better to love this man from a distance, then to try and forget him when I know too many things remind me of him. So I've decided to honor my feelings. Why should I feel like there's a specific time to get over someone? Like a week, a month, a year, or two years? It's different for everyone.

I do date other people, but I'm not rushing to fall in love again. I've tried that method too. But replacing someone - you can never do. Even twins have differences; people are all unique. I have to give myself the freedom and the space to get over someone on my own time, and to not worry about what other great guy I might be missing out on because time's running out. Like I said, it's not about me. I don't want to marry just for convenience, or because I'm reaching a certain age where society thinks it's normal to have a significant other. Relationships and marriage should be AUTHENTIC. And I want a real love in my life, not just anyone who will do.

For now, I'm still in love with my ex. And until I feel divinely guided to connect with a new person, I'm going to stay still and enjoy being with myself, with friends and with family. A good time doesn't always have to involve a man. I believe that God brings people into your life at the right time to serve a purpose. And right now, maybe God wants me to reminisce on the lessons from that experience because I'm lucky enough to have had something most people never find. I did have a special connection. And like they say, it's better to have loved and lost, then to have never loved at all.

Money, Money, Money

2009-09-04T19:57:00.000-07:00

"Love won't pay the bills," is a popular phrase, yet perhaps love may be the best investment in times of a recession. (And should always be) Whether one lives in a city or a suburb, a community consists of several individuals, so despite all the hype, it's never a one man show. Therefore, what's up with all this, "I'm Doing Me - You Do You" attitude? This idea of division to satisfy our ego's desires has left us lonely, even when a person sleeps beside us at night. No man is and island, and wether we're single or committed, we all deal with people on a daily basis. But I've noticed that many couples no longer make decisions together because their priorities tend to magnetize outer sources instead of within. And while it's great to enjoy the mysteries and material abundance of the world, we should never neglect what's inside us first. The stuff we were naturally born with. So while money is a tool to trade food, spices, technology and so many other goods and services with around the world, could it be possible that we abused the purpose of money in our lives? Have we worshiped money, and maybe chose a career based on how large our salary would be instead of what talents of ours we could bring to the table, and how happy we'd truly be on the job? So instead of stressing out about working over time or moving up the corporate ladder, maybe it's time to take a break. Maybe our higher source (Call it God, Allah, Guardian Angel, Higher Self etc) wants us to revaluate ourselves and our close relationships before we continue on our path to success. Just maybe, the essence of an abundantly beautiful person, is their understanding, compassionate and sensitive nature, and not so much their bank account and/or status quo.

In times like these, optimism is essential, but not like cracking jokes about things that aren't really funny, but rather about sending a genuine smile to other's regardless of how bad you think you might have it. It's about appreciating the fact that you can wake up in your own bed instead of a hospital with a deadly disease, having both of your legs to go jogging in a park on a sunny day for free, reading a great book inside of a public library, and just thanking some higher power for keeping you blessed beyond your wildest dreams. Just think about how much worst it could be, and then look at your significant other or relative and say, "I love you. Let's do something fun today". Families and friends have to remember not to lose their minds during this recession. This is an era for change, like an earthquake, yet instead of shifting underground plates, we're moving priorities around to cleanse our spirit's.

I find it to be a shame that our culture has created and promoted various songs on the radio and television regarding the worship of money, fame and privilege, yet neglecting the power of love. Although I'm not suggesting that being rich and famous is evil or selfish. Oprah Winfrey is among the top most affluent celebrities of all time, and has enlightened many hearts and minds across the country; yet a good portion of todays media purposely focuses on exploiting people's weakness's to create a feeling of insecurity if they do not possess the finer things in life. Women seek men with plenty of money, and even men are more drawn to women who are self-sufficient and independent. I'm not suggesting to be lazy, but people are much harder on each other these days. They've raised the bar so high that hardly anyone makes room for mistakes anymore, and pride gets in the way of patience and forgiveness. So the quickest thing to do, is to cut ties in a relationship and search for someone better. I heard someone say once, "I'm young, rich and single; I have options". While it's a good thing not to settle for just anything that walks into your life, I couldn't help but wonder, is it just as unhealthy when we go to opposite extremes of being too selective in choosing the right partner, or how quickly we'll leave an existing relationship because we know how many other singles are out there who have more to offer, in terms of, have more money, security and material comfort to offer?

Whether single or committed, where's the love?

It seems like many are searching for a fantasized partner, one who matches the cover of a magazine like "GQ" for women, or "Maxim" for men. People want to know how your credit score is, what type of car you drive, how big your house is, what types of clothes you wear, how fit your body is, who you associate with, and while all of that is fine because you'd like to be compatible with a person, it's when the character of a person is measured by how many "toys" they own or how "fine" they look, instead of how strong, spiritual and compassionate they are, that frightens me. But now that thousands of people are losing their jobs, or even receiving salary deductions, are we being a little less picky, and more understanding of one another? Or is the pressure still on with little patience as to when this recession will end, anticipating for things to go back to normal?

Before the recession grew, I remember a few people driving nice cars but still desiring to have something better like a BMW or a Mercedes Benz, or mother's spending thousands of dollars for breasts implants or nose jobs, and yet telling their children that they couldn't afford to pay for their after school activities because it was too expensive. Therefore, both men and women were putting their outer appearances above their love for one another. That's why when they say, "Not everything that glitters is gold", I take a deeper look, because although some people may seem like they're a prize to be won, they have little love to offer. Although I do believe that "To each their own", and "What works in your house may not work in mine", I also know that love is a central principle and a universal language that everyone understands, not like some rule or standard of living that will eventually run its course. Trying too hard to live above our means out of peer pressure seems juvenile but a lot of people were doing it. It's like, instead of trying to hang out with the most popular kids in school, we were trying to be the richest. Couples do it, families do it, children watch their parents doing it and follow in their footsteps. Children become teenagers or enter their early twenties and start dating people within their own class, too afraid to bring home a person with significantly more or less money. I can't help but wonder, if there is some spiritual reason behind this economical crisis that has swept across our nation, affecting our way of living when many of us (not everyone) had more than enough but were still unsatisfied. Having to wear the latest designer name brands or most expensive pieces of jewelry is going along with a fad that changes faster than the blink of an eye. We all know, especially living in a major city, that what's in today is out tomorrow. Although we all deserve to glamorize ourselves, there is something we must first possess inside so that these "things" we buy don't end up filling an empty void that we're avoiding to investigate from within.

There is a time and a place for everything, so being obsessed with having more money can sometimes backfire, not for punishment, but to show that "What you put in, is what you get out". So what is your money really going into? Are you taking your wife out to a concert so she could see her favorite singer, or taking the kids to a foreign country to teach them how broad the world is, or the whole family to a summer home in The Hamptons? Or are you collecting more money to spend it on immediate gratification, like drinking at the bar with the fella's every week, buying a new watch or a suit? And for the ladies, are you spending it on another pair of shoes, color treating your hair again and buying another fabulous bikini, before maybe buying a good book for yourself or your kids to read? I'm not saying it's wrong to pamper ourselves once in a while and treat ourselves like the Kings and Queens that we are, but there is a balance that I feel is healthy to obtain. In other words, are you investing your money into things that will produce authentic loving results or self-absorbing superficialness?

*****"Some people want it all, but I don't want nothing at all, if I ain't got you babe, if I ain't got you, some people want diamond rings, some just want everything, but everything means nothing, if I ain't got you", lyrics sung by Alicia Keys.*****

Now despite what I wrote before about todays American society promoting too much superficial nonsense, just to make a profit in almost any which way possible, fortunately there are still artists such as Alicia Keys, India Arie and Maxwell, (just to name a few) who are spreading positive vibes. (And talk show hosts like Oprah Winfrey, actors and producers like Will Smith, etc) Sure they make a responsible living doing it, but they're also pouring refreshing energy into anyone willing to share and receive, divine guidance. However, there are so many youngsters infected with provocative music videos, mindless reality shows and movies related to being egotistical and selfish, that I feel we should propose a better message. My point is that, unless we love ourselves unconditionally as human beings, than there is no amount of money that will buy our way out of insecurity. A bigger house is not going to keep our marriage alive, driving in a faster car is not going to speed up our life's mission, and flossing more jewelry is not going to make us more valuable if we never make a real difference in someone else's life. We as adults have to be an example for the next generation to follow. It is not effective enough to just talk the talk but not walk the walk. Money should be a tool to enjoy life with, but not to revolve life around. Otherwise, money can become an obsession, and the seed becomes corrupted once greed forms at the root. Hence, I truly hope that people remember, not to live to work, but to work to live. I feel that we should all respect one another despite who is rich or poor, who is an executive or who is a janitor, who owns diamonds and pearls, or who owns only one pair of shoes. A man should be judged by his character, not by how much material abundance he's accumulated. So please, if you're one of the millions searching for a soul mate, or if you're already involved in a wonderful relationship but experiencing some rocky times because of this recession, don't let money and material things be the #1 reason to make or break your relationship. Remember that trees and oxygen, fruits and vegetables, water and land was created trillions of years ago, long before money ever existed. Therefore money is a tool invented by man to exchange goods and services with however, the world would still spin on its axis and operate without it, you would still hunger and thirst, and you would still feel emotions too like excitement or fear, so don't bury love into the ground as if it's an ancient thing of the past. I'm not suggesting to go back to a barbaric society, but if the best things in life are free, then maybe love is the eternal joy in which we all seek, and shouldn't be traded for any price. I'm just saying...Love should be at the center of all things in which we build our foundation upon, or whatever empire we're building will fall from its own destruction.

*****An inspirational movie that I encourage everyone to see, would be "Seven Pounds", starring Will Smith. Although the beginning of the movie was slow, the purpose of the film was so profoundly necessary for today's generation that it is a must-see. Towards the end, the mystery unfolds itself by turning into the most beautiful flower with the sweetest fragrance. It is a healing monumental piece for people who are starving for truth. Furthermore, there are seven main characters in the film who are examples of what decent people are, and it has nothing to do with how much or how little they have. It's about who they were from within.*****

I hope that in times of a recession, people take a moment to reflect on themselves and invest their time talking with loved one's. Tomorrow is not promised to anyone, and life is far grander than any paycheck can afford to replace. If a job is lost, perhaps rekindling an old flame or reuniting with someone you care for is a better gain. Now is the time to touch on issues that might've taken a back seat. Just like they say, "What's old to one man is like new to the next", well so are all of our worldly possessions. Your small town house would be a dream to someone who lives in a small apartment or even in a project building. And even a person living in the projects has more than someone living outside on a street corner. So if you're one of those couples who are moving out of your house to move back into a smaller apartment, remember that sometimes you have to take two steps back before you can move five steps ahead. Perhaps there is a deeper lesson to be learned, so you can appreciate the smaller details in life that made you that much more unique as one of God's precious creations.

So take care of your mind, body and spirit, and then money will become more useful for the important things. But burning through money, is like burning up your energy source, and that is why God giveth, but also taketh away. We can all be abundant, prosperous and rich, so long as we invest in love first. By all means, the world functions on money, but we're not robots; we're human. Emotions can not be shut off with a simple switch of a button, and when people begin building a wall around their hearts to put their demanding careers first, you have to ask yourself why are you living to work? Keep in mind that the average American feels like time is money, but in other parts of the WORLD, people are not as greedy, and are also less stressed. No country is perfect, no job and no relationship is either, but if we can learn to direct our energy into becoming a more loving and compassionate society, then perhaps these financial problems would start to look small to a giant.

*****"Hang on to the world as it spins around, just don't let the spin get you down, things are moving fast, hold on tight and you will last", lyrics sung by Donny Hathaway.*****

PEACE & LIGHT