Soul Beauty

In its real sense, beauty is the illumination of your soul.
~ John O’Donohue

We live in a culture which places a very high value on external beauty using a standard developed by those in the world of Photoshop. Blemishes are removed through technology or the right make-up. Excess fat is removed through cool sculpting or surgery.

Yet, John O’Donohue’s words, however you define soul, ring true for me. Continue reading “Soul Beauty”

Breathe …

How often has someone reminded you to breathe? Usually, it’s when they notice you are racing, off-balance, ungrounded, anxious and likely full of fear. When fear is dominating our thoughts and actions, it is impossible to come from, or to be, love. And love, that open, accepting embrace of self and others, is often precisely what we need more of.

Breathe with me now. Take a long, deep, full breath into your lungs. Let it go. Take another. This time, Continue reading “Breathe …”

Lesson from a toddler

When was the last time you were fully present with an infant or toddler? I’ve had the privilege of babysitting a grandson many times during his first 16 months. With an intention of “full attention” to him, I’ve learned so much! But one lesson stands out and bears repeating and practicing elsewhere in my life:

the child loves … and assumes you are good, loving, helpful

Continue reading “Lesson from a toddler”

A hint for the holidays …

For many of us, the holiday season is here – full steam ahead! Perhaps some of the parties are in the past but likely, time with family is yet ahead. And for some, family presents a special challenge: we care about these folks for they are a forever part of our lives if at all possible! Yet, while we may have grown up under the same roof, we have possibly grown apart as adults. Sometimes, connection has disappeared and been replaced by difficult personalities, different values, tension.

This season, I invite you – whatever your personal situation – to consider this:

Love is the answer.

This holiday, try a visioning practice when you gather with others. Continue reading “A hint for the holidays …”

Miracles anyone?

Whatever your faith tradition, or even the absence of one, today I’d like to offer a message about miracles that is powerful. When I remember it, I am filled with gratitude – and that is a very lovely place to be!

Miracles. Are they magic? Is a miracle the thing that happens against ALL odds? Are they experienced only by someone else? Do they only happen in church? Continue reading “Miracles anyone?”