The more we love, the more we thrive. One of my favorite parts of our home is our large guest room. Family and friends are, literally, always welcome to enjoy its king-sized bed—while sharing our food and drink. Out of 3.5 years here, I estimate guests have stayed with us for 6+ months … and we’d … Continue reading We’re Conduits for Love
Life is a marvelously messy tapestry of threads formed by—not only—all the people, plants, animals, and rest of material reality; but also, by our thoughts, words, and deeds. Shaming, judgmentalism, holding oneself as “better than,” living from fear, cutting words, self-centeredness, an “us versus them” mentality, violence, defensiveness, seeking to “win,” and inner-criticism—for example—all tear … Continue reading Love Al(l)ways
On this Summer Solstice: May we remember, even when we can't see the Light, it is always shining on and through us. May the sun remind you, you are always and forever loved. Just as the infinite twinkle of the stars symbolizes your limitless worth; while the earth lets you know you are at home … Continue reading A Solstice Blessing
We're in a somewhat stormy stretch of life. Yet, "somehow" I feel quite calm and beyond content with things. While, the stressors and struggles we're navigating aren't mine to share here—although, getting my doctorate is one—I will say it's not my first time through the "wringer". That said, when I went through my first divorce … Continue reading Letting Go, to Let It Shine
If I could say one thing to you, it’s this: YOU are Loved/Love. Now and forever, no matter what, you are deeply loved—more than words can express. And, when we peel away the mess and muck of life, I believe the deepest truth of each of us is love. We came from love, are made to … Continue reading Our Deepest Truth
What is Christmas to you? While we talk about “the meaning of Christmas”, it occurs to me Christmas gifts meaning, in that: To me, it's celebrating that something more Beautiful, Loving, and True can be born here and now. Christmas reminds us Divine goodness can flood our lives and reality. It’s an invitation to rejoice … Continue reading Christmas Gifts Meaning
This log, and a stranger, reminded me life is a team sport. Lisa and I were partway into a hike when we came to this stream. Skeptically, I gazed at it thinking: I don’t think I have the balance to walk across this without falling into the water and getting hurt. As I doubtfully looked … Continue reading How a Log and Stranger Reminded Me Life is a Team Sport
While the types of seeds, nutrients, and protections we put in a garden determine the fruits, veggies, and flowers it will grow; the thoughts, mentalities, and beliefs we cultivate in our minds shape who we become. For instance, while decades of valuing winning made me quite competitive, sometimes in unkind ways, years of championing unity is making … Continue reading Gardening Our Minds for Goodness
Love resides in the pause. What I mean by that is while my first words, or reaction, to something I disagree with, don't like, or feel pressure or opposition from are generally not helpful or are unkind: Pausing, breathing, and giving my thoughts time to settle, creates space for love to move in. Can you relate? In many … Continue reading The Power of the Pause
What do you do with hurtful or hard words from others? While part of me likes to ruminate on them, defend myself, and/or formulate comebacks that will "show them", my real self knows there's a better way: Reframing. Beginning with the awareness that love is the point, and life is a laboratory for learning to love well, … Continue reading Transforming Hurtful/Hard Words Into Helpful Ones
Grace and Peace Yoga 