Hummingbird_Healing_Center

Defender of Truth

2011-12-07T12:02:00.001-06:00

Just need to understand the "truth" so that I can defend it. Today, it escapes me.

Being a seeker means you never stop looking though. One of those cliche days --

s

Thanksgiving

2011-11-23T01:02:00.002-06:00

Wednesday, November 23
In past years the day before Thanksgiving I would have been running around to stores, making plans, baking and cooking ahead of time. Tradition!!!

Then, the family has "thinned" out with the older generation passing on.

This year my children are busy with others on Thursday. Friday, we will be going to "another world" for dinner.... the Henderson Castle French Restaurant.

The "where" sets a rather opulent aspect to the dinner. The "who" is family and friends that are family as well. The "reason" is that we have been granted some time away from the necessity of work to "gather together to ask the Lord's blessing..." And that old hymn stills my busy life and reminds me that it is a good thing to be under the wing of our divine higher power...

The attitude of gratitude all year long - that is "thanks giving."

s

Resigned to the Fact

2011-11-14T10:38:00.004-06:00

When my father passed in 2005 my brother was barely speaking with me.
When my mother passed in 2007 we had not spoken for at least a year.
When my aunt passed in 2010 I was still speaking with my sister.
We inherited my aunt's home and the Earth took a strange spin. I sold
my "half" of the inheritance to my sister - but she was not at all happy.
Even though I asked for one fourth instead of one half its worth.
She has not spoken to me since August of 2011.
So, this is the way families grow apart.... the older generation dies and there isn't any more pretense of keeping peace in the family.

There just isn't any more family. Pity.

ss

November 4

2011-11-04T14:48:00.002-05:00

Two days before 65 -- and I don't feel any older.
Only 48 hours left -- doesn't make me bolder.
I look into the mirror and not recognize me
But, who am I even now -- who can I be?

Life

2011-10-25T12:53:00.001-05:00

LIFE IS SIMPLE...
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IT IS NOT EASY...
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AWE

2011-10-13T10:54:00.003-05:00

Aw..........shucks........ is more my style. However, today I am in awe. I am corresponding with a person that presents himself as genuine, down to earth, and interested in alternative health - the same as I. But today, I learned this person IS SOMEBODY.......now what does that supposedly mean? I mean an entrepreneur who is widely known, highly respected, and presumably extremely busy... and yet he has time to say hello on occasion.

Could it be the universe is showing me that people are actually more casual about themselves than others' perceptions? Wow. Never too old to learn that hero-worship is more in the mind of the worshiper than the hero!

ss

A Year Gone By

2011-10-09T05:48:00.003-05:00

A year ago I was introduced to the Raw Foods Living Program. Loved it, embraced it, fell away two months later.....pumpkin pie and corn pudding at Thanksgiving did me in. Trouble is, one taste set me off....one taste. Well, I do NOT love my current diet, but have been struggling through the sugar addiction. I had lost 7# with the raw foods and gained it back. Now, I am 30# lighter than I was Oct. 7th last year. But it's because of the no sugar/no flour living plan. Not only living - but living much better - more healthy... and I still eat a LOT of raw fruits and veggies. The discovery of fire certainly helped people live comfortably in cold areas - but it didn't help the diet a lot... just gave people ideas of how to add fattening sauces, etc. to foods... am still not vegetarian, so still need fire.

After yesterday's flag football game and sitting in the sun, we sure didn't need a furnace to keep warm. In fact, umbrellas acted as much needed shade. My grandsons are growing up so quickly!

ss

Thursday, October 6, 2011

2011-10-06T10:33:00.002-05:00

Having LONG been a proponent of alternative health practices, I am seeing a board-certified nutritionist that uses kinesiology for testing. All of a sudden I am faced with one of the major problems with American health care -- the quality of our health care is driven by the insurance providers! I can see my allopathic doctor once a month. I pay $25 co-pay and the insurance company pays up to $90. I am given allopathic medicines that have horrible side-effects and have to have additional medications to counter-act them. Of course some of them cost upwards of $140 and I pay $10 with the insurance covering the rest. SO, once a month I'd pay $35 to $45 for care that covers up symptoms and not really gets to the bottom of the cause of the diseases.

So, I am now seeing a nutritionist whose prognosis for healing is far better than the above. The initial meeting was $115, followed closely by two additional testing appointments ($70 each) - so, without any treatment plan or medicinals, $255 has been spent out of pocket. The first supplements suggested (not prescribed) were $87 -- or $342 NOT COVERED by INSURANCE.

Herein lies the dilemma -- who the heck has an extra $342? Which leads to a heap of other questions like - aren't you worth it? Don't you want to take care of yourself? Wouldn't you rather heal instead of cover up symptoms?

These are scary questions for a single working person. The biggest thing I know is that I am so weary of the side effects from the allopathic drugs - and NOT getting any better.

PS - have now lost 27# -- that all helps :)

ss

Ninety Days

2011-09-21T07:21:00.003-05:00

Three months - 90 days - what's in a number? Are numbers that significant? To many they are. To many, nothing is attempted if the "numbers" aren't correct. I have been obsessed with numbers lately. FOUR ounces of protein, EIGHT ounces of raw greens, SIX ounces of fruit, SIX ounces of cooked vegetables. Sometimes my head spins with the boredom and simplicity.

Last year when I completed the Raw Chef training at CHI the amounts weren't emphasized. The content of our diets were -- raw - vegetarian - PERIOD. It was a life-giving and delicious - gourmet. However, there was liberal use of agave, honey, and various spices.

What does one do when learning several modalities of healing? My current program is working and my blood test "numbers" prove that! I guess one just needs to decide and STICK TO IT - no matter what one chooses. I've chosen the no sugar/no flour route... and sometimes really miss raw chocolate cheese cake and butternut squash salad....... who knows, maybe one day they can be incorporated into the program as well.

So, what's in a number? Anything you want to put into it!

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ASTONISHMENT!

2011-09-20T13:52:00.002-05:00

That seems to be the only word in my vocabulary that I can grab onto to describe what is going on in this fair area of ours! Henderson Castle - one of my old haunts (no, I'm not a ghost, although the castle is haunted) - is now being opened as a healing center (my definition). A new owner, and new ideas... I am astonished - I am thrilled - I am hopeful for this area. What a great reason to smile.

_

76 Trombones....

2011-09-15T22:25:00.003-05:00

... led the big parade.... etc. etc. I feel like there should be a big parade. 76 days in the program and blood sugar readings have dropped from 129 in a.m. to 91.... Blood pressure significantly better - along with other "blood test numbers." I didn't need the numbers to prove to myself how much better I feel without the added sugars in my diet. Oh, and I reached my first goal of minus 25 pounds. Terrell's home made pound cake just about "did me in" yesterday. But, God is faithful to give me grace and strength to resist. One bite, one piece wouldn't have killed me, but the downward spiral that one bite would have caused would have been the culprit.

Three bunches of bananas dehydrated yields just over a quart of tasty crispy critters! Smelled yummy while processing!

Blessed in Portage!

Patience

2011-08-30T09:44:00.003-05:00

... has arrived. It is not worth stressing over anything. Both blood pressure and blood sugar readings are vastly improved and have lost 21# in 7 weeks. Depending solely on my higher power [whom I call God] for guidance and direction is the best thing that has happened to me.

Yet, hunger besets me at times and I dream of carrot cake chasing me... no, not seriously, but I sure can remember what it tastes like!

Ridding my life of sugar for 61 days. Wow - what a difference.

Received 1/2 bushel of tomatoes from Debby. Had anxiety thoughts of coming home from work and having to can them. As I opened the door the aroma of cooking tomatoes greeted me. Son, Ted had sliced them and put them ALL in the dehydrator. What a gift! Am seeing that anxiety has no place in my life - if I don't give it one.

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Patience ! ! !

2011-08-10T13:02:00.002-05:00

Where is it? I want it now! ! !

PEACE

2011-08-03T12:33:00.002-05:00

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change; the courage to change what I can, the wisdom to know the difference; and the patience to wait for the wisdom to develop.

Positive Life

2011-08-02T13:06:00.004-05:00

And so, another week has passed. I was going to list all the negatives that have happened in one week and then POW! Sock you with the one great positive. INSTEAD, the negatives are of no consequence in the light of eternity. The positive is that after one month of no sugar and no flour I am still praising my higher power - 14 pounds lighter! Thank you! You are faithful to sustain!

:)

Weary

2011-07-26T14:24:00.001-05:00

A situation this past two weeks has driven me to the brink of screaming - I am so weary of implications, legalese, and penny pinching, nickle and dime crap.

But, it has not driven me to sugar. To my higher power -- THANK YOU!

.

Haiku

2011-07-25T14:04:00.000-05:00

SUGAR like a Black Mamba

Sneaks up on you

One bite and

Sudden death.

Deathly Bites

2011-07-20T10:42:00.004-05:00

In the break room - a mere 30 feet from here - is a dozen frosted cupcakes.

Not just frosted - but heaped with swirls of frosting and sprinkles.

Chocolate ones and yellow ones. Each tantalizing confection a death trap.

One bite. Just one bite. One could say the same of a black mamba -- one bite - just one bite - sure death.

I will be having a lunch in 10 minutes that I lovingly prepared for myself with God's help (He preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies)...

Yes, cupcakes are enemies. An addict can never take one bite nor can an alcoholic take one drink. One is never enough.

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God is Faithful

2011-07-20T10:39:00.001-05:00

Simply stated - She is Faithful; He is Faithful; They are Faithful.
For those who believe in one true God - there is only one true God - She, He, and They.

Not so simple, eh?

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Delicious Discovery

2011-07-13T10:50:00.005-05:00

I stood in the shower, allowing the hot water to run over my head and down my back and thought how “delicious” it felt. The apricot-scented soap smelled “yummy” to me and that’s when I realized that I was using food terms to describe enjoyable feelings. And, have you ever noticed that many terms of endearment are actually food related? My favorite has been “honey” or “sweetie” and I’ve heard many “honey buns” and “sweetie pies” over the years. Although I’ve never called anyone “cookie” I know I’ve been tempted to want to “gobble up” some baby’s cute little toes – much to their squeals of delight!

So okay. Where does that fit in to an addict’s life. Addiction? How did we get from food language to addiction? Addiction is an insidious disease that tricks you into believing you do not have a disease. Food is just my “drug of choice” and is just as damaging as other addictive diseases. It is more common and more accepted by society, although societal norms are not too kind to the “fatties” out there.

One can smoke and possibly hide the fact if one can cover up the lingering tobacco smell. One can drink to oblivion at home and if functioning by morning, no one is the wiser. One can do any kind of street or designer drug and still “get away with it.” One can eat to excess, binge and purge, etc. and very few would understand this is going on, but you can’t hide excess weight.

I am a food addict. I love food, the aromas, the tastes, the textures, the feelings of comfort they have given me. No, I am not a gourmet. I am a gourmand, by definition. I used to laugh and say “I’ll eat anything that doesn’t eat me first.” I never gorged, binged, or purged… but oh, how I sought out those sugary, buttery, flour-laden treats. If I ate one bite, I’d have to have another. I never had enough. There were NEVER enough cookies, or brownies, or graham crackers. And heaven forbid if the supply of chocolate had to be shared, or if there weren’t enough donuts left over for me. Yes, I am and always will be a food addict – prayerfully recovering, one day at a time.

July 6 -

2011-07-06T09:00:00.004-05:00

The headache for lack of caffeine was unpleasant for two days. It is now gone. At the time I thought it may go on forever.
The inability to go to sleep for thoughts running around in my head has dissipated. For a couple of days I thought I'd never get a good night's rest.
The smell of bread toasting almost put me over the edge and I couldn't imagine never having a crunchy roll again.
All the wonderful Michigan fruits are coming on and I just thought how tragic it would be not not have blueberry, cherry, strawberry pie... until one eats them fresh and realizes how wonderful they are that way.

THEN, I got an email from friend, Richard. It was about a horrible polar bear attack on a man -- it had pictures and cautioned you to be prepared. I scrolled down (why did I do that?) anyway, it was a polar bear cub chewing on a man's boot. It had this caption: MAY YOUR TROUBLES ALWAYS BE SMALLER THAN YOUR IMAGINATION!

Thanks, Rich - perhaps it was meant to be a "teaching joke" - but it really hit home to me about the words "never" and "always" and "forever." Our imagination can take something and really blow it out of proportion.

So, I live with out caffeine, flour, and sugar today -- and let tomorrow take care of itself.

The Technical Adventure Begins

2011-06-30T10:20:00.003-05:00

This, technically, is day two of adhering to a strict food program of no sugar or flour. Technically, the fruit I ate yesterday had sugar. Technically, the 2 grams of sugar in the salad dressing was just that -- sugar; although I am allowed that. But, I did not have any flour.

Today, I already had my one serving of fruit. AND there are donuts on the break room table -- just chock full of sugar and flour. Hmmmm, well, it's only day two of the food program and "technically" I could start again tomorrow. The question is - would I? Nope. One bite and I'd have to have another and another until the donut is done. And, most likely have another donut later on in the day. I'm opting for the technical -- and in a world of "almosts" this food program is "technical."

Ain't technology grand?

“Killing me softly with sweetness”

2011-06-24T06:47:00.002-05:00

The tv hero is grazed by a bullet or stabbed and they bravely wrap up the injury to curb the bleeding and go about their merry way – usually running for their life, etc. Nothing is ever said about pain It is ignored. What are these heroes made of?

I cut my toenail too short and practically did the same thing – antiseptic gel and off to work. But I felt it from time to time during the day. Two days later I dropped a chair on it and let me be the first to tell you I am not made of the same stuff of tv heroes! By now the toe took on a reddish hue and I figured I really bruised it. . … even limped a bit. I started wearing sandals so it had room as the swelling would be going down – which it did until three days later when I tripped, barefoot, on my carpet sweeper. This injury brought me to tears and I bled profusely. It hurt like hell. Injury upon injury upon injury.

A person has “one” bite of a piece of cake, or chocolate, or cinnamon roll and the sugar injury begins. Bite after bite of putting that into one’s system is injury upon injury upon injury. And, like the tv hero, they are running for their lives in trying to avoid the consequences of the sugar poison. They are hurting themselves and go about their merry way. Until the pain becomes too great.

Pain from sugar? Yes, most evident, weight gain and all the social implications that go along with it – emotional pain. Internal damage making some organs work harder, stressing the metabolism, and some shutting down – unseen physical pain that cause dis-ease with one’s body: diabetes, hypertension, kidney failure.

Reality Check – Sugar is sweet poison that is putting injury upon injury upon injury on our bodies. And the sad thing is, it is as insidious as alcohol or tobacco or street drugs… because it all makes one feel good… because it is all-comforting for whatever one perceives their life’s problems to be.

Reality check - Sugar kills.

Day Twelve

2011-06-16T09:43:00.002-05:00

Hmmm... thought things would be better by now. The past days have just shown me how UN-DISCIPLINED I have become -- how used to "changing my goals" I've become to suit my daily whims. I suppose learning things about oneself is a good thing.

Life changing decision today - it only took 12 days of trying things on my own to understand that I need help. Prayer - #1 because my strength and motivation come from a personal relationship with my higher power. Association with like-minded individuals - #2 because dietary counseling can help with ideas for discipline. Motivation - #3 because my health is at risk.

So, I admit that I have an eating disorder that has led me through many ups and downs. Eight days ago I thought (for the umpteenth time that my motivation was solid.) I guess it was getting there, for now my motivation has led me to continued stimulus.... and it is NOT medicinal! yea!

DAY FOUR

2011-06-08T11:47:00.002-05:00

How many times, over the past years have I started a post by saying "Day One" ? Too many times. And too many attempts that have been messed up by chocolate or cheese cake or chocolate cheese cake....

Friend Mark said "an addict is always an addict." I'd heard that before but not really believed it. All of a sudden I understood -- I am the only one that can overcome addiction. If I allow myself the wrong foods, I will slink back into the abysmal pool of poor me...

So, have been studying and learning about self love and self respect. My dear God, I'm 64 - wouldn't you think I'd know about that by now? No - habits and life-patterns have been too ingrained.

Having read Gabor Mate's interview on "Discovery Now" [supplied by Friend Carl] I came face to face with old ideas that do not ring true any longer. In a nutshell - we are responsible for our selves - mind, body, and spirit, and can not attribute problems to genetics. It's all conditioning.

Mark introduced me to some Taoist breathing/sounds; 5-organs meditation. What a stimulating and healing this has been giving me now for 4 days. And four days of "green smoothies" and four days of knowing I'm responsible for me.... really knowing it.

Finally Found the Love of My Life

2011-05-29T23:24:00.003-05:00

I have a friend, George, who mentioned something that got my self-creating juices flowing. (A muse I supposed you would say.) In any case the topic is "The Love of My Life" and how that relates to food and being ready for the love of one's life when they appear on the scene.

I am learning that I am the love of my life. Anyone else who comes along can either compliment my life or bring me misery. What makes me miserable? Not being able to have the object of my desire -- be it chocolate cake, ice cream, or a satisfying sex partner. Any thing that gets in the way of my being the love of my life... that is misery.

Cheese cake, or any other gooey dessert filling my stomach, or a man filling my body with his -- both are just symptoms of needing something other than me. Graphic? I suppose... but true.

Perhaps one of the reasons we humans are here on earth is to learn that we are all that we need. Being co-creators with God, food, want of a sexual partnership, or money, or anything else or any habit that we allow to get in the way of realizing our importance to ourselves does not honor the wonderous creations we are. Understanding our position in God allows us to be the love of our lives.

Relationships? They are only a testing ground to give us ideas of where we are in our path to self-realization and self-love. They are necessary. Otherwise, how would we ever learn to respect and honor ourselves? We'd never know how fulfilling it is to give and receive love and honor and respect - without those relationships.

Relationships come and go. They do not have to be sexual, but can be intimate in many other aspects and most fulfilling - most rewarding - and educational.

So, in this path of mine - seeking now to be healthy physically, sweets and treats have a new meaning... and I am pleased to announce that I have finally FINALLY discovered the love of my life - me.

As a side-note. Today would have been my dad's 95th birthday. This year, he gave me this gift - the insight to understand loving me. [His name was George also.]

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Why?

2011-05-25T11:11:00.004-05:00

Why are people fat? Too lazy to prepare.
Why do people not prepare? Too lazy to make lists.

Why are people fat? They don't eat right.
Why don't people eat right? Too lazy to prepare.

Why are people fat? They don't exercise.
Why don't people exercise? They are too fat to move.

Why are people fat? They lose motivation.
Why do people lose motivation. Too caught up in "poor me."

Now, substitute the word "people" for "Shirley" -- as in: Why is Shirley fat?

Why am I writing this? Because I am fat, lazy, and unmotivated.
I am on THREE medications for blood pressure and NONE of them work.
Why? Because I am fat. So, it goes back to -- why am I fat?
Because I am lazy and unmotivated.

And I might add hurting and ill and angry with me.

This post because I needed a starting point of getting better.
I'd hoped to start my green smoothies again - but that lasted two days.
Why? I didn't make a list of ingredients, didn't go shopping, and wasn't prepared.

Now - if I know all the WHYS - perhaps there can be a starting point. Like, uh, today?

I have an appointment with a naturopath Saturday. I am done with all this western medicine and how it does nothing but treat symptoms - not causes. The cause in my case - fat... which can be fixed... just need God's help.

Broken - but wanting to be fixed.

May 19, 2011

2011-05-19T13:20:00.002-05:00

God is faithful.
God is sending a buyer for Auntie Ethel's house - Friday showing.
God is healing me - Back on the right diet track.
God is giving me a new job - still waiting for this one - but I know it's there.
God is showing me which house to buy... so many choices.

Beautiful day... overcast - but inside it's warm.

Aha!

2011-05-16T15:45:00.003-05:00

When I went to CHI to learn all about health-giving foods I knew it was a good thing. I learned and I practiced for all of two months..... and then the pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving was just too much to keep me on the good-food plan. I got lazy. Now, I'm on "regular" food and have gained weight and am feeling like crud.

Too lazy to take care of my health. What a sad thing. Now, it is a necessity with some kidney issues surfacing. So, here's the question -- good foods, raw juices, mainly vegetarian??? Or the average American Diet which kills with heart and cholesterol problems and packs on the weight which is even worse?

I've gotten into the poor me attitude and listing what I can't have to eat. Sigh. I look back at my October entries -- what happened to that enthusiastic person? She needs to resurface.

Send positive healing -- prayer if you believe in it -- just virtual hugs if you care at all. Or shake your head and keep going down the path where I've been for 54 years [I can't blame my diet on me for the first 10.] Help me help you heal too. Love and Light is ours.

Too Blessed to be Stressed!

2011-05-05T12:11:00.001-05:00

I am so blessed. God is sending someone to buy my aunt's house.
I am so blessed. God is giving me a new job.
I am so blessed. God is healing me.
Now NOTE:
Sending doesn't mean "sent"
Giving doesn't mean "gave" and
healing doesn't mean "healed."
BUT IT IS ALL in the works, so to speak.....it is all Happening.... even as I write.
WHY? Because God is Faithful -- God is not being faithful -- God IS Faithful.

Nature

2011-04-11T05:58:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was one of the most unseasonable glorious days of the year so far! I sat outside talking and playing dominoes with friends for at least 3 hours. The fresh air and sunshine washed away the winter crud! When I went to bed, the spring peepers were peeping away, filling the entire woods with their delight. This morning, still dark, the birds are singing their little hearts out, calling to the sun for her appearance. Don't you just love nature?

Anticipatory Delight

2011-04-08T11:35:00.002-05:00

What is going on in the universe?
This writer is hovering on the edge of something that I can not quite put into words.
Is the full moon on the way? Always. Monthly.
Is it that 80 degrees is promised for the weekend? Perhaps. Unseasonal.
Is it knowledge that there is more to life than meets the eye? Heartfelt. Hopeful.
Does anyone else feel like they are on the brink of something wonderful -- about to happen?
Are you smiling? Is there a hidden reason? Or do you know and not want to admit it?
And after all is said and done -- Why?
Is what is going on in the universe of my being real? Why not?

I am giddy with anticipatory delight... and I am smiling.

Memory of a Smile

2011-04-03T18:56:00.003-05:00

Sorting through boxes - good flu past time - ya' can't do much else. However, this brought a smile to my spirit. I had corresponded with an elderly gentleman 15 years ago. "Elderly" I say because HE said so. I had never thought of him in those terms. I'd sent him a letter, complimenting something he had done. The following is WORD FOR WORD - a note that he faxed to me.

"Shirley, Amidst the clammer of a universe that has educated itself [far too] beyond with intelligence, it still continues, on occasion, to bring joy to the heart of a poor soul that has been trampled by the footery of a society that seemingly, more each day, has lost touch with the conscience of humanity. Thank you for the smile. David Dean" 9/18/96

I still smile when I think of him.

Unity in Prayer

2011-03-31T11:00:00.001-05:00

At noon today, I was honored to be a part of a world-wide prayer to make the waters near the Fukushima Nuclear plant devoid of radiation. It was simply: "The water of Fukushima Nuclear Plant, we are sorry to make you suffer. Please forgive us. We thank you, and we love you."

As I prayed my hands became extremely warm, knowing that 100s of thousands of believers were pouring positive energy and love into the waters.

Aho. Amen. So be it.

SPIRIT SONG

2011-03-02T12:32:00.001-06:00

When a child meets someone special

And their joy develops and grows

It gives a sense of wonder to see

How their enduring love enfolds.

In the way they talk and smile

How they listen, receive and give

Loving each other without reserve

Is the way they've chosen to live.

It’s amazing how the universe

Coaxed their spirits to be led

To find each other and now

Sandy and Bryan will soon be wed

My heart rejoices in their journey

To see two children who endured so long

Become the loving adults they are today

Singing each other’s spirit-song.

The Gray Areas in My Life Named Gary

2011-02-23T14:20:00.004-06:00

The name "Gary" has come and gone in my life from the youngest that I remember (cousin Gary) to a man whose "profile" I read today on line.

Hero-worship could be used to describe cousin Gary. He was from Chicago and I from the tiny farm-community of Hartford. Cousins - city mouse and country mouse. He loved bowling, did a brief stint in the service during the Viet Nam era, married a lovely, enthusiastic girl and was established in a church. Yup - his life-style was something to emulate.

The second Gary in my life became my brother-in-law. He was younger, athletic, and talented and became a school teacher. He married a lovely, enthusiastic girl as well and their family was established in a church. They escaped the farm...and as ex-husbands and their families go, we never really were good friends like his wife and I had become.

Enter Gary number three - instant rapport Gary; sang duets Gary; danced slow dances Gary; exchanged massages Gary; enjoyed naturist days together Gary; loved and lost Gary.

Gary number four became a loving friend whom I've known now for almost 15 years. We laugh a lot. Watch movies, visit naturist parks, and hug endlessly. He teases me, but in doing so makes me NOT take myself so seriously. His Scorpio nature and mine have made a lasting connection.

There was a few months I dated a man from Gary, Indiana, but I'm not counting that as one of the Garys in my life.

The fifth Gary was my boss for two years and we were able to talk on a personal basis because of us being in the same age bracket. Where others thought him austere and unreachable, I know him as a man of integrity that I appreciate.

Ah, Gary number six was a blind date. He spoke very highly of himself and early on I knew it would be a brief encounter. Pity - I really thought him interesting.

So, today, I met Gary number seven (on paper). "Three" wasn't the charm; I thought perhaps "seven" would be lucky. I've never been so enrapt with a person's writing -- his explanations of himself seem totally familiar and warm. It was almost scary because I saw so much of me in his (also Scorpio) words. As yet, it did not go beyond two e-mails. What a joyful ride it was!

All have been fleeting gray areas in my life (I say this of my cousin because I so rarely saw or now see him) that have made impressions never-the-less.

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T11:43:00.002-06:00

Driving into work this morning I glanced at the garnet ring I am wearing - it is round but in a silver heart-shaped setting. I thought it appropriate for Valentine's Day - a day of hearts and roses and fleeting glimpses of past loves.

The first heart-shaped ring I had was gold with March's birthstone to remind me of a very special man in my life. But, as romances go, this went no where.

The second heart-shaped ring was paua shell in a lovely filigree setting purchased for me by Glenn after "winning" at Soaring Eagle casino. But, as romances go, this was short-lived.

Ah, but this third heart-shaped ring is the charm! The garnet I purchased for myself - is to remind me of my love for myself. Although not a "romance," it should last forever -- at least it is more stable!

Advice for today - love yourself well and remember to be kind to you!

2012 - Prepare - Don't Despair!

2011-01-12T13:50:00.005-06:00

2012 -- There are so many ideas floating around about the Hopi Indian Stories; the Mayan Calendar; Nostradamus' Predictions and hard-to-decipher quatrains; Jose Arguelles' information; the Pleiadian Light Workers' agenda for Earth, and a score of others' thoughts of what is REALLY going to happen on December 21, 2010. Will the Earth actually do a "flip flop" of the north and south poles? From the scientific explanation of sun spots and loss of electrical use to the Bible's apocalypse the date in question is still being debated -- only, with less than two years left the debate is heating up.

My dear friend, Sir Barry Lee, spoke of the Earth changes back in 1995 while in trance.

To some, the change will be an esoteric change of consciousness. Nothing more. To some, it will be a week or two of inconvenience with technology-driven life as we know it being effected. To some, it is the end of the world all together. To some it is all a bunch of whoo-ey. To the vast majority, the date means nothing.

Tell that to victims of tsunamis; volcanoes; hurricanes; tornadoes; sub-standard living because of oil costs, bank failures, and diseases.

To me? I'm reading every thought that comes to my attention. Here are some books that may give you food for thought:
2012: Biography of a Time Traveler: The Journey of Jose Arguelles
The Mayan Factor: Path Beyond Technology
The 2012 Story: The Myths, Fallacies, and Truth Behind the Most Intriguing Date in History
The Mystery of 2012: Predictions, Prophecies, and Possibilities (compilation by Tami Simon of at least 15 noted writers on the subject.)
I have ordered all four of these books, used, from Amazon with the median price of $6.50 (including shipping). Cheap at any price to read about the "future."

Lastly, there are many MANY items on line about this predicted Earth event. An interesting site, suggested by dear friend, Ed (an astrologer) is more scientific. Check out: http://wtfdiam.stevenredhead.com/photonbelt.html

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord our God. (Bible)... and prepare for changes as we go along. (Common Sense).

A Rainbow

2011-01-11T13:59:00.008-06:00

- - - - -
Colorful Salad - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Color Filled Condiments

Having just spent the weekend at the "Raw Chef I" certification class, I am still feeling high and filled with all the colors of the rainbow - eggplant, blueberries, peppers, kale, bananas, oranges, and tomatoes -- well, that is "sort of" a rainbow. There was a rainbow of students as well - from all walks of life and from Oakville and Toronto, Canada; Maryland; Ohio; Illinois; Almost Indiana; and Michigan to name a few homes.

We learned a great deal about gourmet raw dishes - they were so tasty. They were also time consuming to prepare - but we didn't mind because during the lessons of "how to" we learned about each other. This class was as much about working together and adding love to all that we do as it was about ingredients that make a smashing marinara sauce or an award winning rawlicious chocolate cake.

I was very glad for the encouragement as it helped me get back on track. I was eating about 60-75% raw foods.... and hopefully I will up that percentage.

New Year -- New Attitude

2010-12-23T08:47:00.003-06:00

Boundaries. I understand it is next to impossible to set boundaries with Jupiter in one’s first house (astrologically speaking). Simply put, I understand, because I do not set boundaries. Without boundaries a person can feel “used” and set up a vicious cycle of allowing that over and over again. Meditating on that, this season of goodness and light, I realize that GOD has no boundaries. One may come to Him/Her at any given time, in any given circumstances and the Creator’s Love and Light will shine upon them – with boundless energy – with healing – with acceptance – with joy. When one feels that Divine Being living within, things change. The old ways, old patterns have to catch up with the new mind of Christ… feeling used is an old way. Feeling blessed to be of service and to learn is the new way.

In the past I have felt used and thus abused. Now, I am beginning to see that the only boundaries I must set are dependent upon my energy. Am I constantly asked to listen to others’ problems? That is not being used – it is being given an opportunity to stretch my prayer warrior muscles. Am I constantly asked to assist with healing? That’s not being used – it is being given an opportunity to connect my energy to the Divine Healing energies. Am I being used to counsel? No, it is the opportunity to share the mind of Christ. Are opportunities to learn through experience being a matter of being used? Only if I feel sorry for myself instead of understanding that it is the opportunity to share from experience so that others can learn. It is the latter that has caused me grief over the years with relationships (moon in 7th house).

Every relationship has been a learning experience. What I have had to understand is that it has also been my choice to “learn” or to “feel used.” It has been my choice to accept someone for face value without expectation… eventually feeling used because I really did have expectations. I couldn’t see that for myself. [Jupiter again.] I am glad for this extra time for reflection, so that I could go over the past and see, once and for all, that having felt used was actually life’s classroom. Perhaps I have finally graduated and can go forward from this day with a new attitude.

Monday Morning Misery

2010-11-29T08:14:00.002-06:00

Okay - I just HAD to experiment...Well, that's my excuse. The truth being known, I got tired and bored with just raw fruits and veggies. I didn't get on the scale for two full weeks, in hopes that my "modified" diet program would work. I'm still alive - which means it worked. I gained 6# which means it worked TOO well.

So, it's back to the blender and green smoothies.

It's back to NO rice cakes, popped corn, or "just a taste" of cooked foods: ie: pumpkin pie; bread; pizza. How did a diet program of 95% raw become a diet program of 10% raw with all the nonsensical foods that I had been avoiding?

It takes time - megga time to plan and to prepare. Working full time doesn't give a lot of culinary time.... however, that too, is an excuse. We all take time for what we think is important. My blood pressure and blood glucose readings have crept up again in just two weeks. The question is -- am I worth the extra time? Am praying about it.

Sunday Evening Philosopher

2010-11-28T22:01:00.003-06:00

Aristotle said "Friendship is one soul in two bodies." Wow! A light came on for me when I read that. I know it sounds rather mystical, but it does define what I have felt for a long time. I have a long-time friend and have said that I carry my friend's spirit with me wherever my friend or I go. So, yeah, I understand the definition. Perhaps it will define things for you, the reader, as well.

Also, today, the reality of mortality came crashing down on the family again. My dear brother in law, Dale, suffered a massive heart attack. He had surgery and hopefully will be strong enough for a second surgery Tuesday or Wednesday. Readers, please send light and love and positive healing his way. My sister is with him' please send strength her way.

Do not let another day go by without telling someone that they are loved....

ALMA-JI Healing Method

2010-11-15T09:31:00.007-06:00

There is an old adage "You can never go back home." Well, it doesn't always happen that way. Nope, it isn't always necessarily so...

This past weekend I stopped in to Creative Health Institute (see Bobby's Blog link at the right) to participate in the Son/Sun Greeting. I was warmly welcomed and invited to spend the entire day by the program director, Bobby. It was a wonderful feeling to see "spiritual brothers and sisters" and meet new friends. And oh, the fabulous raw gourmet foods! I ended up spending the night and during that Saturday and early Sunday I gave 12 Reiki sessions. When one gives healing it is inevitable that one receives healing as well. Also, while there, I heard a heart-felt, extemporaneous talk, by the resident chef, D.J.

There were people there from Illinois, Iowa, Texas, Alberta, Canada, Toronto, Canada and even the nearby state of Detroit! [grin]. I felt peace and that special aura of "home."

It was a "vaccination" for me of encouragement to stay within the raw foods program... which I have been doing, but allowing some non-raw items into my diet.

There was time for reflection as well. I have been combining my Reiki training with my psychic healing training with my spiritual energy healing. I have been praying about this for quite a while and was given the words "alma" and "ji" which are Spanish for "soul" and "chi".

Chi, as you may know means life force. I may be the first Alma-ji healing practitioner - but certainly not the first healer that connects mind, body, and spirit. I will be blessed to share this method with you any time. With light and love in this new day. Shirley

Four Weeks

2010-11-03T10:02:00.002-05:00

Wow - what a ride! Four weeks and minus 14#.
Had the most scrumptious raw butternut squash "Asian" salad the other day. It has been fun to try new and different recipes. I'm having some difficulty sprouting quinoa - an essential ingredient in many recipes... but not giving up.

And that seems to be the key. Don't give up. I've seen my morning blood sugar reading go from 148 to 87 at it's lowest -- averaging 92... and that is with HALF of the medicine I was taking.

Raw, wholesome foods are expensive - but am saving on meat and dairy products! AND, how can one put a dollar amount on one's health?

BTW - have relegated the microwave to being a storage cupboard. My encouragement to anyone reading this is to get in touch with yourself - get in touch with your higher being - get in touch with health.

Something to Consider

2010-10-27T10:12:00.004-05:00

This is very radical, I know, and I am weighing it carefully. I took the liberty of copying this item from the CHI Blog Site.

Ten Reasons to Throw out your Microwave Oven
From the conclusions of the Swiss, Russian and German scientific clinical studies, we can no longer ignore the microwave oven sitting in our kitchens. Based on this research, we will conclude this article with the following:

1). Continually eating food processed from a microwave oven causes long term – permanent – brain damage by “shorting out” electrical impulses in the brain [de-polarizing or de-magnetizing the brain tissue].

2). The human body cannot metabolize [break down] the unknown by-products created in microwaved food..

3). Male and female hormone production is shut down and/or altered by continually eating microwaved foods.

4). The effects of microwaved food by-products are residual [long term, permanent] within the human body.

5). Minerals, vitamins, and nutrients of all microwaved food is reduced or altered so that the human body gets little or no benefit, or the human body absorbs altered compounds that cannot be broken down.

6). The minerals in vegetables are altered into cancerous free radicals when cooked in microwave ovens.

7). Microwaved foods cause stomach and intestinal cancerous growths [tumors]. This may explain the rapidly increased rate of colon cancer in America ..

8). The prolonged eating of microwaved foods causes cancerous cells to increase in human blood.
9). Continual ingestion of microwaved food causes immune system deficiencies through lymph gland and blood serum alterations.

10). Eating microwaved food causes loss of memory, concentration, emotional instability, and a decrease of
intelligence.

Four feet of Heavenly Space

2010-10-24T20:46:00.008-05:00

It occurred to me that if I had all of my raw foods, seeds, nuts, herbs, in close proximity and easily accessible it would be easier to maintain this way of living. So, with veggies and fruits in the refrigerator immediately to the left of the workspace, and other items marked, it was relatively easy to set up. I had the cupboard from an old place; the shelves were from a garage sale find; fancy jars from Salvation Army, blue canning jars from my daughter and from a couple of garage sales. The wire rack was my son's.

That's a native medicine wheel mandala on the wall to the left. This whole way of eating is for healing. Other items were found about the house and at Good Will. So, for a few dollars a really nice work area can be put together.

My aunt looks on from the pix in the upper right hand board; her green seed grinder just below. There are seeds sprouting in the cupboard below and wheat grass growing in the window to the right. Never knew healing could be so much fun...then again "a merry heart doeth good like a medicine."

FOURTEEN DAYS

2010-10-22T09:18:00.003-05:00

Hit the minus10# today!

It's difficult, to a point, to not eat everything everyone is bringing into work - caramel apple pie, donuts, chocolate cake, etc. My blood sugar was 110 this a.m. - usually 105 to 106....(I have cut my medicine in half) but I had a baked potato for supper last night.

The whole program is based on eating everything raw -- at least 90% of the time. I had fish the other night and the potato last night (they were cooked.)

I eat raw fruits and veggies and nuts; sprouted grains, occasionally fish and eggs from range fed chickens; occasionally a potato. I'm still waiting for two raw foods "cookbooks" to arrive.

I do NOT eat anything else which means NO meats, dairy, (cheese), or grains that are not sprouted. No coffee either.

Very drastic change. I realized I was very sick - by my own doing - wrong eating. This will be a life-time change and I am trusting the Divine Creator that I will be helped and strengthened to heal. - Holidays will never be the same without sugar - but at least I may live long enough to celebrate a few more!

TYPICAL NEW SCHEDULE

2010-10-20T13:40:00.002-05:00

Up and at ‘em.
I drink the wheat grass I pressed yesterday.
Then, I make a green smoothie. Today: wash kale, romaine, zucchini, bell pepper; add 1 cup rejuvelac (sprouted quinoa “milk”) and 1 cored apple. Pour into two containers and clean up the blender, etc.; stir new rejuvelac brewing and water wheat grass sprouting. By then a half-hour has passed and I can drink today’s “energy soup” smoothie.
Make salad for lunch and soak oatmeal for the rest of my breakfast.
I dry brush “all over” before I take a shower, get dressed, and finish the smoothie. I watch the news on t.v. while eating oatmeal with cinnamon and walnuts. (I still have to make some almond milk.)
Then, before leaving for work I join the healing center family in the Sun/Son greeting. Feeling especially connected this morning, I can leave for work. It helps to know others are on a healing path as well.
I knew it would "take a while" to heal -- I just didn't it would take so long in the kitchen!

A New Lease on Life

2010-10-18T09:58:00.002-05:00

I've long heard that one is never too old to learn. It is also true that there is the RIGHT time to learn - and that is when you need it the most - mind, body, and spirit. Last week I spent time with people that honor the mind, body, and spirit with the emphasis on healing all three - holistically. OR WHOLE=listically you might say. It has taken all of the past 5 days to process what I learned. I was at CHI (Creative Health Institute) between Union City and Coldwater, Michigan.

Once there, the loving atmosphere surrounded each and everyone there - we were all there to heal different aspects of ourselves. The way? Raw Foods - De-toxing of the body; making sure the conversations we run in our own minds are positive, loving, and forgiving; and that the spiritual inter-dependence on whomever one believes to be their higher power is shared without judgment, with unconditional acceptance and love.

We had "words" for the day... while there we shared our thoughts on "Love", "Joy", "Peace", "Kindness", and "Sincerity". We all saw and felt the healing powers and were able to acknowledge they begin from the awareness within that we needed healing -- and the realization that healing is three-fold (M,B,S). I am setting up a raw-foods section in my kitchen and would be happy to share any and all information and recipes. And yes, I'm still happily eating raw foods and looking forward to the raw chef classes in January.

The website is: http://www.creativehealthinstitute.com and I will be putting Bobby's blogsite into my links.

If you want any additional information -- just ask.

FRIENDSHIP

2010-09-02T14:36:00.009-05:00

I loath the fact that I am alone. I go to the store alone. I go to movies alone. I eat in restaurants alone. I sleep alone and more depressing, I wake up alone to another day of being by myself. I was bemoaning this condition to my friend, Chuck, who said to me he wished that he were alone. Being alone to him meant having hope.

I asked for an explanation. He related that had no time for himself. He was always surrounded by someone who wanted something from him; intruders into his reveries who made noise and interrupted his train of thought; others who demanded his services; others that required things of him that he did begrudgingly. He wanted to make choices again – the kind of choices you can only make when you are alone; choices that gave him pleasure; even doing little things for others. He felt hopeless.

Well, I certainly could understand the freedom in being responsible for only myself. Choosing to do certain activities or going at my own leisure to places I appreciated; and not having to ask permission or beg for company from someone who didn’t share my enthusiasm or interests. All of that lifestyle was second nature to me and Chuck could not understand how I didn’t appreciate it more.

It’s the old story of curly-haired girls wanting straight hair and straight-haired girls wanting curls. Is it just human nature to not appreciate what you have and want what you do not have? Is there such an animal as having the best of both worlds?

Here’s another catch phrase: finding the “happy medium.” And this doesn’t mean a contented psychic reader. This means living in the best of both worlds – that of being a solitary entity and that of being part of a committed unit.

Friendship. A friend is more than just an acquaintance. It is a commitment of the highest caliber. A friend is one that you laugh with, enjoy their smiles, listen to their tales of woe, give advice, take advice, hug with abandon, make love with your heart, your eyes, your words, your actions – not necessarily with your bodies. Or, use your bodies to give each other exquisite pleasure – if you choose to do so, without owning one another or without expectation. That’s being alone and yet being a friend and sharing in that hopeful flow of the give and take of life.

Anonymously Written -- Jail vs Nursing Home

2010-09-02T11:34:00.002-05:00

Let's put the seniors in jail,

And the criminals in a nursing home.

This way the seniors would have access to showers, hobbies, and walks, they'd receive unlimited free prescriptions, dental and medical treatment, wheel chairs etc. And they'd receive money instead of paying it out.

They would have constant video monitoring, so they could be helped instantly, if they fell, or needed assistance.

Bedding would be washed twice a week, and all clothing would be ironed and returned to them.

A guard would check on them every 20 minutes, and bring their meals and snacks to their cell.

They would have family visits in a suite built for that purpose.

They would have access to a library, weight room, spiritual counseling, pool, and education.

Simple clothing , shoes, slippers, P.J.'s and legal aid would be free, on request.

Private, secure rooms for all, with an exercise outdoor yard , with gardens.

Each senior could have a P.C. A TV radio, and daily phone calls.

There would be a board of directors, to hear complaints, and the guards would have a code of conduct, that would be strictly adhered to.

The "criminals" would get cold food, be left all alone, and unsupervised, lights off at 8pm, and showers once a week. Live in a tiny room, and pay $5000.00 per month and have no hope of ever getting out. Justice for all.

Having just dealt with my Aunt Ethel's stay in a nursing home, I say the above is RIGHT ON!

Retirement

2010-08-20T06:56:00.002-05:00

Now that the house is clean, dishes and laundry done, cupboards organized, cat pans cleaned - what does one do? I read for a while, I read Inipi cards for a while - meditated, etc. I suppose I could start sorting out the boxes in the basement -- yeah, that will work!

I took three days' vacation 'cause I thought I could help someone who had surgery - she didn't need the help afterall. I spent one day relaxing at the resort - loved the water and the sun. However, unless I organize my time to visit others after things are "done" -- retirement could be very boring. . . and all this has been discovered in 3 days' vacation time. hmmmm

Life's a beach until high tide -- then you're just swamped.

Karma Satisfied

2010-07-31T09:34:00.003-05:00

Enough!
I get it -- I understand
This insanity brought upon me
By my own hand.
Karma.
Teaching me -- lesson severe
Custom hewn
My own past words and thoughts
In this life brought me ruin.
Karma.
A woman rejected -- reason fat
Clothes that never do fit right
Folds of flesh wrapped in sweat
Lying alone at night.
Karma.
People laughing - yes, at me
I hide behind chocolate cake
Never getting love or respect
Because of choices I make.
Karma.
Enough!
I see -- what I have done.
To satisfy Karma's game
I had to live what I once mocked
Thus, I became the same.
Karma.
This life has shown me full well
The hell of my past sins
Never more will I obesity berate
Today my new life begins.
Karma satisfied.

A week of "incredible happenings"

2010-06-29T03:01:00.002-05:00

It constantly amazes me what little things spark reactions in people ... and the realization that it isn't the little things that matter. They just pile up until it's difficult to see over the top of the pile and a good blow seems to be needed to level the playing field again. That is usually followed by uncontrolled weeping.

I'm a Scorpio and I have this uncanny ability to skirt issues and try to hide my true feelings - until I've had what I consider to be "enough." I can turn around and strike viciously with words that sting - afterall, I'm a writer. Oh, it's easy to blame profound weariness, emotional stress, full moon, immaturity on my part when in reality it is not dealing with the little things and letting them choke my sensibility. Unfortuneately, the volcanic blow usually isn't anything to do with the matters at hand. And this past week's happenings have been a conglomeration of joy, anger, mourning, anger, relief, more anger, and the realization that life isn't always what one wants it to be.

Walk gently, seek peace, love unconditionally - and have understanding children.

The Universe Provides

2010-06-25T09:58:00.003-05:00

Dear friend, Mark, sent me a web address - it couldn't have come at a better time.
Check out:
http://www.dediamantenpoort.com

It is, in English, called "The Diamond Gate"

In Frans' own words: "I would like to share a lot with other people on earth. I prefer simple lyrics and express my feelings in pictures and videos I create. ... Dutch is my motherlanguage but I will try English when applicable..."

His goal - "to spread humanity, to spread peace, to help wherever possible."

We all need more enlightened persons like Frans to share the expressions of their spirit!

Incredible Voice

2010-06-24T09:38:00.005-05:00

I encountered, via the air waves, a voice of the future - clear, strong, irreverent, humorous, with great potential for serious impact on intelligent listeners. The voice has just needed encouragement to fulfill destiny's call.

The voice has been caught up with the American Dream's pitfalls - having to pay for the habits in life -- food, shelter, transportation, and the high costs of education, health care, and appearance. Sigh. I know that this has all made me think about my own situation.

The voice knows the naked truth. Perhaps a day naked before the voice's higher power would be in order. Perhaps I simplify life too much by believing that nudity contributes to health and well being. I know my days as a naturist have shown me my inner self without all the contrivances and demands the "American Dream" put upon its populace. And because of being a naturist, I like me: over-sexed; over-simple; over-sensitive; over-weight; over-sixty; over-spiritual; and this post is over.

Be at Peace, Darling Girl

2010-06-21T04:49:00.003-05:00

My sweet Aunt Ethel passed from this life into the next stage of her journey. She passed peacefully, sleeping, and perhaps dreaming of her loved ones who had been visiting her in dreams the last few weeks. She was of Christian faith and is victorious over this life in that fashion.

She was born in Canada in 1917 and lived in Covert, where she graduated from high school, and then in a few places in Hartford. Ethel was the last living member of her generation.

Ethel was an independent gal, never married, sometimes fiery, sometimes soft and gentle. Hmmm, she was a woman that I admired and loved and sometimes made me want to scream. Hmmm, she was a woman; self-made and strong.

A few weeks ago we spoke of her "time" as she called it and I tearfully and laughingly told her I would not cry for her because the next part of her journey would be without pain and disability ... but I would cry for me, because I am going to miss her. We held hands and cried together.

The Scents of a Woman

2010-02-04T13:36:00.002-06:00

Ah, in the shower, using the yummy patchouli and apricot goat-milk bar soap. Great almond shampoo with coconut conditioner. Step out and use the regular lime deodorant and then after toweling dry, use the special mint-scented heel smoothing cream. Slather on cherry-almond body lotion but also use the spice body powder “under” the skin “overhangs”. Top it off with a special “feminine” fresh-scent spray where I am feminine. Put lemony mousse in my hair. One final additive: the medicinal arthritis gel on my knees. I take my upper plate out of the bleach solution and scrub it with a cinnamon solution. I use a minty goop for adhesive and brush my teeth with fresh gel. Of course I finish with Listerine mouth wash! Next, put a special lavender astringent on my face, followed by a lavender day glow cream and then the orange sun-block. Spritz all over with a honeydew cologne. My clothes smell of “daylight” detergent and “Snuggle softness” fabric softener. The jacket I want to wear has a musky smell so I spray it with Fabric freshener. Then, my lipstick is light pink with a cherry flavor; the hand lotion is cocoa butter. On top of all that goes the citrus gel on my hands to ward off germs.

That’s 30 “flavors” and aromas and I’m beginning to understand where the womanly scent originates. However, I recognize this particular conglomeration as the smell of an old lady.

ANGER REVISITED

2010-01-25T10:56:00.001-06:00

I have been dealing with anger lately – anger for not having fought for things that I thought were mine. At the time of various incidences I was living with this non-interference attitude… but I lost out on relationships because I didn’t fight for them. How can one believe that others have a right to live their own lives and then fight to alter that? There is no point in fighting for something that doesn’t mutually exist spiritually. It is damned hard to not be angry for being totally swept aside as a non-entity in love-relationships and difficult to accept.

Loving friend, and mentor, Dan, said, “As spiritual warriors we don’t fight for stuff like that, we fight to be who we are. That’s what it’s about.”

I hereby give the universe notice that as a spiritual light worker I am fighting for myself – my right to be healthy and to be who I am – healer, lover, nudist, instructor, writer, and hundreds of other nouns; and will allow the universe deal with others’ lives

2009

2009-12-20T09:28:00.002-06:00

Ten days remain in the December calendar of the year 2009 – incredible!

This year world unrest (does the word “war” seem more appropriate?) has touched everyone, some more dramatically and at a deeper level. Poverty and resulting depression have ravaged people world-wide; up to 15% of those right here in Michigan are unemployed. Inflation has made it difficult, at best, to survive for almost everyone. I am grateful that the ravages of war are not where I live; that I am employed and comfortable; that I know in my heart of hearts that God is in control.

My son and I are sharing costs by living together. My eldest daughter’s step-son was spared in a near-fatal car accident and her two eldest children are both in school now. My youngest daughter completed two master’s programs this year and her fiancée completed his bachelor’s program at WMU. To know my children, their spouses and my grandchildren are well has been one of my 2009 highlights as well as my joy.

My aunt turned 92 and with a few hours of daily help continues to live in her home. I shared some wonderful face-to-face time with my sister in June as she and hubby traveled to Michigan for the HHS reunion. I have renewed friendships from 44+ years ago (the reunion and Facebook being major factors) and have made new friends throughout the year. A new spirit, "Winnie" has come into my life in the form of an adorable cat and an old spirit, "Sophie" has passed on. The deer and turkey population still graces the woods that surround my home. To know that the Divine Creator has given me these opportunities with family and friends, human and animal, has been one of my 2009 highlights.

The world is impacted by all things, but individually, in the light of eternity, the universe is impacted by how we continue to grow by learning about ourselves. Thus, to share healing and light and love has been one of my 2009 highlights.

Whether you believe in a higher being or not, celebrate this yuletide season or not, is your choice. As for me, I’m blessed, and wish you prosperity and goodness throughout the coming year.

With light and love, Shirley

Joy of the Season

2009-12-07T09:42:00.003-06:00

Here is a sweetie that brings joy!

She is my new Cairn Terrier "Grandpup"

and belongs to Sandy and Bryan.

Life in General

2009-12-05T07:26:00.002-06:00

Trusting all is going well for you, the reader, as it is in the universe -- Life in general is good and healthy and loving for those that are endeavoring to obtain oneness with the Divine Creator. Will most definitely be looking to the "inner being" as much as I can, along with cleaning my inner physical body. The season has changed from a time of gathering to a time of rest. I love how the snow looks, all white and pristeen, but everything is still the same beneath it all. This winter season is a good time to take stock in what is going on in your life in general.

Through trial and error I am regaining parts of me that have been missing; health being the most interesting journey. I purchased a high-powered juicer and am experiencing some fascinating combinations - carrots/celery/apple is my daily tonic.

Life has been calling Light Workers to put our "money" where our mouth is -- It is a time of growth and re-birth and understanding! Happy journey!

Spiritual Healing Direction

2009-11-19T13:01:00.002-06:00

One thing many humans have against their well-being is their insatiable “need to understand” that which affects them and often, to their detriment, what affects others as well. The precepts of the Tao state that “to know someone is intelligence, but to know one’s self is wisdom.” That would seem a caution to mind your own business.

Spiritual healing doesn’t rely on “what the ailment is” but channels healing energy from the universe into others, or receives it for themselves. Thus, the positive aspect of understanding develops if you are addressing an illness in yourself or for someone else and you understand how to go about listening.

The wisdom comes from listening to one’s own heart, one’s own ideas, one’s own spiritual guide(s). It is not a “need to understand” happening. It is a following of spiritual direction that is freely given – if only one listens … not always to an audible voice – but to “feelings” and to others’ validating your ideas with their thoughts. These feelings don’t always hit you over the head, but become a calm knowing. More often than not humans become followers of OTHERS’ ideas, hoping to find themselves, their spiritual path, their healing with someone else’s experiences. This is different than having your own ideas validated.

Direction for healing can come with ideas of a corrective diet, an exercise regime that just feels right, a certain type of meditation and/or medication and/or supplements and/or body work that alleviates the physical symptoms. Listen. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it.

Recently, I came across workshop information from November of 1997. It was on "Healing Touch" and kinesiology. Wow, had 12 years really gone by that quickly? It was on Natural Energy Balancing and given by Dr. Betty Lue Lieber, a Psycho-Spiritual therapist, and life partner, Dr. Robert Waldron, N.D. I was delighted to find them on line at: Reunion Ministries; 140 Mayhew Way; Suite 200; Pleasant Hill, CA 9452.

The Information from that workshop is even more valid today in a world that has gone crazy with insurance driven health care. The energy balancing, however, address much much more than just the physical body. To quote Dr. Waldron from the workshop materials, “Respectful Healing Touch offers self-awareness and self-help tools to assist individuals in re-opening the healing energy flows within themselves, allowing them to experience more enthusiasm, vitality, energy, and joy.”

Hmmmmmm, I believe that’s what I was saying to begin with – The wisdom comes from listening to one’s own heart, one’s own ideas, one’s own spiritual guide(s). and now I realize that the foundation of my thoughts of listening to one’s self (one’s body) came from that workshop 12 years ago.

The Same Table

2009-10-21T05:04:00.001-05:00

The first few days of a dietary change can be fun as well as challenging. One shops for new and sometimes exotic foods and enthusiastically adds up points, calories, grams of any given aspect of food, such as protein, carbs, cholesterol and so forth. Along about the fifth day recording everything you eat gets tiresome and all the food you had planned to last for two weeks has now become a grazing ground in the fridge.

Twenty-two days ago I started a food “elimination” plan; suspected culprits determined by a costly blood test. Mind you, I got the results last April, but totally balked at the idea of giving up some foods that I love - coffee being one of the most treasured; followed by almonds, corn, most cole vegetables; dairy products; melons, strawberries and blueberries for gosh sake, and the worst – sugar and yeast. Are you aware that anything tasty and comforting has sugar and yeast in it! Like – everything!

Okay, so after no coffee I’m still alive. No, I’m not as alert as I have been, but have learned that if you drink enough black tea it has a similar effect – and helps your body’s water flow considerably!

I mused that we are all called to the same table. Granted, it is a smorgasbord banquet table set with many things from which to choose. It is the choice we make daily, or too often, or not often enough that determines how our bodies react. An old expression is “You are what you eat.” It is all choice. Choose to be healthy, choose to lose, choose to heal or choose to ignore all of that and allow your comfort cravings to perpetuate illness and weight gain.

Likewise, we are all called to the same table upon which life lessons are served. Some people just “never” seem to learn. They try the same things again and again without understanding that one must observe with an open mind and act with a positive attitude to accomplish anything. Oh, if one tries and fails, and tries again with a different direction, one does learn what works and what doesn’t. Still, it is choice that leads a person to act on what is learned.

So, how one deals with a situation is all choice as well. It is the choice we make daily, to react hastily to meet our needs, or to observe and take time to respond thoughtfully. It is a daily choice to create a life filled with chaos or caring, poverty of thought or the power of wisdom.
Dieting is hard work. Investigating motives is hard work. Staying with a program of study to obtain a lucrative career is hard work. Being consistent in life’s “projects,” including dieting, is hard work. Following one’s passion against social norms is hard work.

We all sit at the same table and each makes their own choices: education, religious leanings, creativity, eating healthy or otherwise, learning to live and let live, allowing others to heap what they want on our plates or being miserable attempting to control ourselves and others.

If one would start each day with a clean plate, and choose what would be satisfying for mind, body, and spirit, wouldn’t we all be more healthy?

Friends

2009-09-08T07:32:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I was encouraged to finish the V4 Factor post I started on August 25th. It is done and published below with the opinions of 10 of my friends (initials at the end.)

Friends are what makes life interesting. SUCH AS, I stopped by the "DDG" - Decatur Daily Grind, a fairly new coffee establishment in the wee burg of Decatur. It is in the historic Dr. Bope residence on St. Mary's Street, just a half-block from the town library. (Fabulous coffees, teas, and baked goods at a small town price.)

While there Robyn and Steve showed up and graced us with their own guitar renditions of some "older" songs. Their voices clear and joyous set the pace for the rest of the day. And in talking I was encouraged to start publishing some of my "stuff" again. I realize it is rather long - but "you asked for it!"

Human Chemistry = V4 Factor

2009-08-25T15:53:00.005-05:00

Funk & Wagnalls defines compatibility merely as “capable of existing together.” Yet, the definition of compatibility, popularly termed “chemistry” has been overworked and incorrectly employed as a descriptor in the growing quest for a suitable partner – one that supposedly possesses similar beliefs and interests but in reality caters to the libido. Acting on this chemistry is characteristically a “First World” and/or Western custom.

What is it that brings two persons to the point of intrigue and attraction? Why does one or both begin to pursue the other? After years of dating, using astrology, bio-rhythms, numerology, and dating sites unsuccessfully, the author has determined that it is not the letters exchanged, the phone calls, the like-interests or anything on paper that works. Requested opinions expressed here only touch on how relationships last as they mainly address the beginning phase of attraction.

OPINION – TB: I believe that the first part of an attraction to another is very much sexual desire. My softness is the “Mediterranean Look.” It may just be the "galloping hornies" that gets you through the night, but for it to be a long lasting relationship, there has to be more common ground.

Throughout human history, parents selected mates for their offspring. Family fortunes and continued lineages were the only consideration. One may be familiar with Tevia on “Fiddler on the Roof” declaring his rights as “the Papa!” One such right was to choose his daughter’s husband, aided by the town matchmaker of course. It was unheard of to marry for ‘love.’ Indeed, in some cultures this selection process still exists. There is no initial sexual attraction other than the mystery of the unknown.

OPINION – SM: Physically, it comes down to the flesh; it's what one feels when watching some other person. Psychologically, there has to be a combination of familiarity and difference – someone that shares your ideas but also has new and exciting ideas. And then from what I can tell money makes girls horny. Men with money are powerful, and power is sexy. Also, as far as one night stand – not knowing someone is a thrill (example: Last Tango in Paris.)

Linking a full moon with romance, love, and fertility has been common in ancient culture and modern thought alike. Gypsy potions, witches spells, and amulets, charms, and all sorts of gadgets have been used to attract a lover. This V4 Factor has worn many faces and has been sought after for generations. Additional methods have also included tarot card readings, palm readings, sooth saying, Runes, and the cave-man’s ever-popular dragging off the virgin by brute force.

Early astrology was practiced as the ultimate authority of guaranteeing a good match according to date, time, and place of birth. Many heavenly aspects came into play with planets’ alignments being favorable or not. Sun signs had to be in a particular angle to one another before an astrologer would give their okay. When six months separated the sun signs, such as Taurus and Scorpio, it was an 180 degree separation, thereby verifying the “opposites attract” saying. If a person’s sun sign was Aries and their moon sign was Gemini, their perfect match would be a Gemini sun sign with an Aries moon.

“According to astrology, celestial phenomena reflect or govern human activity on the principle of 'as above, so below', so that the twelve signs are held to represent twelve basic personality types or characteristic modes of expression.” (Mayo, “Teach Yourself Astrology.”) It is the twelve personalities, matched and blended together that perpetuate compatibility. To truly have been of use, one had to totally abide by the beliefs of the astrologers. Chinese astrology didn’t follow planetary alignments, but equatorial divisions of the Earth were used. Parental control was especially strong and they relied heavily on this method of astrology to create solid matches. Note again that the emphasis was not on physical attraction.

OPINION – CD: The reason we have such problems with marriage is that we get married for lust (V4) but we stay married for compatibility. However, even in marriages with great compatibility the urge to feel that V4 factor again with a new partner is strong. If this drive wasn't in us all, the human race would have died out a long time ago.

Bio-rhythms is touted to be a scientific mode to measure one’s mental, physical, and emotional highs and lows also using a person’s birth date. The more similar one’s body rhythms are, the more two persons are said to ebb and flow with one another. Depending on one opinion, it is best to be on the same “wave length.” Opposition says that to be helpful within a relationship two persons need to be within 50 to 70% compatible. That way, if one tends to be emotionally high, they can be of assistance to their partner who would presumably be at an emotional low at the same time. To have a totally satisfying sexual relationship, the physical bio-rhythm compatibility must be at a greater scale percentage.

Numerology is a fascinating conglomerate of numbers. Each letter of the alphabet is assigned a number (from one to 26). Each digit of one’s birth date, time, and place is also added and then reduced to a single number. Each number is then assigned characteristics and is compared to a suitor. For example, the name ANN would be A=1 N=14 N=14; 1+14+14=29; 2+9=11; 1+1= 2 Thusly, the name Ann has a numeric value of “2”. Added to the numeric values of the rest of Ann’s statistics would determine her final numeric value. A perfect match would also be a “2.” Then, various combinations would have different predictions of a successful relationship.

OPINION – DZ: All those systems out there claim to have an influence on us. I'm sure each one, if it were the sole system, it probably would be something worth noting; but when you literally have many systems, they cancel each other out for the most part.

OPINION – RP: Some things make sense, some don't in trying to figure out the mysteries of human attraction to the opposite sex.

Recently developed, there are many other personality, chemistry, and profile tests offered by the more popular dating web sites such as “Match.com,” “Yahoo Personals,” “Singlesnet,” “Plenty of Fish,” “E-Harmony,” and the like. Each of these will analyze one’s personality and compare them with another participant’s personality hoping to connect the persons with the love of their lonely existence. Notice I didn’t say lonely life. Is it really living to allow someone else to do all the decision making concerning one of the most important things a person can experience – a relationship with another human being!

OPINION – RP: These guys you meet "on site" are by and large "trollers" looking for a bed partner.

OPINION – KS: There was a time and a place where relationships meant something, and were relatively available. But, we live in a time, now, that is superficial at best, and psychopathic at worst. All the divining and rationalizing, chemical sequencing, testing and evaluating aren’t going to amount to a hill of beans, unless you know who you are and what you’re attracted to.

How does the chemistry begin? My favorite, although not original, definition is that “love at first sight is lust with potential.”

OPINION – DZ: To me astrology, numerology and all those things deal with compatibility. Two people can be compatible as far as any of those systems go but that does not mean there is chemistry – the V4 Factor – the thing that really counts. Indeed, two people can be incompatible by the standards of those systems, yet if there is chemistry there, it can work.

OPINION – BM: It is the social interaction between physical attraction and the mind. That’s what makes things ‘pop’.

OPINION – SN: Physical attraction is appearance, smile, also personality.

OPINION – GL: I have been matched with men with 86 to 97% compatibility (on paper). None of the matches have gone anywhere. Why? Because the V4 Factor was missing.

So, what is that V4 Factor? Certainly it varies with age, sex, and experiences. It is the smile that creates tingles on one’s skin; it is the voice close to one’s ear that leaves one breathless; it is the way one’s hair either is long and flowing or short and curly according to personal preferences; it is the soft lips begging to be kissed, it is the pink tongue licking those lips seductively; it is the moustache one wants to feel gliding over their skin; it is the cleavage pushing toward the neckline or the whisps of hair peaking out of the shirt; it is the way the other person’s charm lures one into their energy; it is falling deeply into one’s eyes; it is the way the totality of the person assaults one’s being to the core that creates the male’s erection or the female’s wetness. It is the energy exchanged by physically touching; it is one’s scent; it is the taste of the first kiss. All of that V4 Factor, and more, in varying combinations, is what brings one back for more.

OPINION – SC: … body chemistry certainly is a valuable aspect of the courting/mating ritual, however those chemical reactions do dwindle...they are designed to only attract, and entice.

OPINION – KS: We got caught up between what was – and how we were expected to live up to it, long after its death/cremation – and what is now – and how we inadvertently put ourselves in the position of catering to it like indentured servants.

At one time, only physical attraction was the essence that created the instinctive drive to reproduce – thereby making certain the human race would survive. Today we are still slaves to this human chemistry – a chemical compound of testosterone and estrogen.

From “howlifeworks.com” -- What drives one person into the arms of another? According to Dr. Virgil Amend, the answer lies partly in the body's powerful air-borne chemical hormones called Pheromones. Production of these chemicals stems from our evolutionary need to find a mate and reproduce. Smelling these pheromones stimulate the limbic region of the brain, also known as the 'Seat of Emotions'. This area of the brain is responsible for our emotions and sexual attraction.”

FINAL OPINION – Author: Chemistry between two persons that brings them together needs to be truthfully defined as a combination of individual preferences and pheromones that creates lust.
It is the V4 Factor – the va-va-va-voom!
(Thank you, Art Carney, “The Honeymooners”!)

In order for the attraction to progress, however, it is my belief, and the expressed opinions of others herein, that “common ground” or “compatibilities” must exist. Upbringing, ethnic values, past experiences, and general life issues are often not considered during that initial attraction phase as it has been learned they must be, to ensure long lasting compatibility.

Contributors:
DZ – 63, divorced male
GL – 62, divorced female
KS – 45, single female
RP – 63, married male
SC – 55, divorced female
BM – 27, single male
SN – 50, married female
CD – 62, married male
SM – 37, married male
TB – 61 – divorced male

DEAR RIAL

2009-08-10T09:54:00.002-05:00

A dear friend, a mentor, passed into Spirit this past February. I had not been keeping up with him and only learned this yesterday. I absolutely adored Rial Greenman. He came into my life when I was physically ill and emotionally stiffled. He encouraged my writing. He published stories I wrote in his magazine. I didn't know he was the publisher of "Road King" when I met him, and sent him stories about his grandmother, based on the genealogy I'd done for the family. I am sad that I did not make the effort the past couple of years to visit him - although I thought of him everytime I went to Decatur...."someday" I'll visit. "Someday" never came and now, in this life, I won't be able to tell him how significant he was in my spiritual and emotional growth. Dearest Rial, now that you're in spirit, I can only hope you know what a difference you made in my life. You are loved.

HEALING

2009-07-30T08:31:00.003-05:00

Once again, I am adding a special link to this healing blog site. It is the passion of Tami & Terry Stingley to offer Ayurvedic information for healing. Having met them has been one of my greatest blessings of the past year. I will be chronicling my Ayurvedic journey and will publish bits and pieces from time to time. Please follow your heart to:

http://www.earthboundyoga.com/

DAILY ROUTINE

2009-07-29T09:11:00.002-05:00

There is a fine line between being active and having every living part of you ache. I’ve not found that line as yet. My early morning one and a half mile brisk walk results in drenched clothes, sweat stinging my eyes, and a rapid heart rate. When did I get old?

I wake up in the morning and have to stretch my body to get going, the crackling sounds tell me I need to drink more water. In doing so, I’d be making four trips during the middle of the night instead of the ritual two to the bathroom. The daily walk in the fresh air is supposed to help and by the time I am back in my kitchen, drinking water, the snapping, creaking sounds have subsided. Ah, I am warmed up for the day.

The shower feels wonderful, the drive to work is tolerable, but the walk from van to office is often difficult. The old muscles have melted into inactivity, uric acid has seeped back into place, and the effort to put one foot in front of the other hurts.

Getting old can be painful. Being old and out of shape is hell. How does one repair the physical damage done by years of disregarding needed exercise? Trying to correct those years of neglect with a band-aid of stretching and water is ineffective. How does one face their own stupidity? With a water bottle, and slogging one and a half miles every morning, and sweating, and hoping you can do it all over again the next day.

Sweet Jesus

2009-07-15T09:54:00.000-05:00

Jesus loves me. I know this because my parents told me that the Bible says so. Therefore, that man who wears his hair long, has a beard, and walks around in a bathrobe loves me. Who is he? I’m only six years old, but I know that Jesus loves me.

Sweet sixteen and never been kissed because Jesus teaches that good little girls don’t get involved with boys .. they just want to kiss and touch boobs. I wonder how Jesus dealt with hormones. Did God make Jesus different than the rest of us?

Praise Jesus! I have a home and a husband and children and am only 30 years old. So fortunate in this day and age to have so much. Loving Jesus is supposed to make me happy. Then why am I just tired and bored and sad most of the time?

Thirty-six with three children and a cheating husband. Jesus is Lord and won’t give me more than I can handle. That’s why I’m eating all the pain and frustration all the way up to 300 pounds. Jesus provides everything, including long-johns with cream filling and frosting on top. I have a home and wonderful kids to take care of…. But I want someone to take care of me too. The church says to let Jesus be my husband. Right. Jesus is not a flesh and blood person to hold me close or make love to me. Does Jesus forgive blasphemy? Is questioning blasphemy?

A loving Father, Jesus, has set me free from that farce called a marriage. Now, at 43 I’m on my own to work, help my teenagers cope with a split family, and try to meet my needs – my habits of food and shelter and sugar. Perhaps he’ll help me find someone that will love me and treat me with respect. I hear that Jesus loves me just the way I am. Why can’t others?

Good grief, am I really 60? I’ve tried for all these years to give my life to you, Jesus, so you will direct my steps. I keep putting my life on that altar, and then grab it back down as I walk away. You’ve said to lean on you, trust you, worship you – that way I’ll be happy in whatever circumstances I find myself. I’m beginning to believe that to understand myself is true happiness.

Jesus, will I ever get it right? Will I ever find someone who loves unconditionally – who enjoys life and laughs uproariously – who gives without expecting anything in return – who willingly helps everyone, family, friends, strangers – who believes there is more to life than the eye can see?

Who would ever have thought that finally I have found that one person to make a difference in my existence. Sweet Jesus, it is I.

Home Again

2009-05-26T14:55:00.003-05:00

Ah, what a difference a few days in the life of a cat make. Sophie returned, 8 of her 9 lives intact. She was gone for 7 nights and 8 days. Taking her to the vet was expensive. She had three bite wounds, one had ripped slightly, and another abscessed. She is now safe at home and she will never ever be allowed to go outside near the woods again. I thank the angels of safety that brought her home! God is faithful.

Distraught Times Two

2009-05-21T21:46:00.007-05:00

In less than a week I lost two beings from my life that I love dearly... and it is almost impossible to stop crying once I start thinking of them. So, I try to not think - just be and do what is needed to do. The first poem is about my friend:

"Lost"

Searching -- to make sense of it all.
Did we become too close?
Were we too much alike?
Was the honesty too intense?

Stunned -- not understanding.

Grieving -- just beginning.
Emotional
Painful
Unexplained loss.

The second is about my companion and pet:

"Sophie"

Sophie's gone.
Beckoned by the world.
Sophie's gone.
Her warmth no longer mine.

Sophie -- I'm here.
I cry out into the night
Sophie -- I'm here.
Misery is mine.

1500 Square Feet of Flesh

2009-04-16T15:06:00.002-05:00

Eighteen years ago “Lonely Hearts” personal ads started showing up in local newspapers and in the backs of specialty magazines. If I wanted to meet a farmer, all I had to do is check out the personal section of the classifieds of Mother Earth News, right next to feeder pigs and hay bales. It reminded me of the mail-order brides of the 1840s. The participants didn’t have much choice and most often the women answering the advertisements were closely watching their biological clocks. None of the men in the East had scooped them up and the old maids of 25 to 30 years of age packed their belongings and travelled across the continent to get married, sight unseen.

With the dawning of the world wide web, men and women were able to expand their searches and very quickly found their mates. The past five years in particular thousands of dating websites have reared their lying heads. Instead of finding mates, people have found a virtual playground, packed with all the eye-candy they can handle. Some are very costly, some require extensive personality testing, some are just for sexual encounters, some are for “just friends.”

It is so easy to present oneself with glamour shots and fancy words. The vocabulary has nothing to do with reality. Cute, a few extra pounds, particular, usually mean, not ugly as a mud fence, fat, and picky. Independent, well-off, and health conscious usually mean stubborn, paycheck goes from hand to mouth, and one walks to the mailbox and back. And if you do meet someone, what usually happens? One or the other of you stay on the websites “just in case” you meet someone more interesting, sexier, wealthier, more needy.

After experiencing all of this, first writing letters, and eventually using the websites, how on God’s beautiful green earth did I think that the advertisements for houses for sale would be any different?

The real estate market has really taken a dive over the last several months. Great pictures, taken so flaws are hidden, show up and all the descriptions make you truly want to see the property. “You have to see it to believe it!” “More house for less money!” “Ready to move in!” all hawk the houses that have set empty for months….their wall treatments shriveling in the cold, the window caulking breaking and falling out due to no maintenance, pipes freezing – “but can be fixed easily.” Mold growing on the side of the house that is said to be moss, a roof that needs a tad bit of repair, etc. The biggest red flag of all, however, is “sold as is!”
Sold as is lets the seller totally off the hook for any and all repairs or improvements needed to make it livable. Be very wary if you see these two phrases in the same offering – “ready to move in” and “sold as is.”

Wednesday I saw a quaint (meaning needs updates) cozy (meaning small) house that touted that you could move right in and do the few repairs as you live there. The bathroom was plumbed, but no tub or shower or sink were there. Oh, yes, there was a stool – good, I can move right in.

The kitchen cupboards were started but no sink or countertops were installed. Good, no place to do dishes. I hate dishes. That’s a great reason for moving right in. There was a wonderful deck off the almost kitchen. I could throw the dirty dishes over the edge.

Okay, I’m going over the edge here. It was just disappointing to learn that there is as much deception in advertising the sale of houses as there is in advertising the sale of flesh.

Significant Sequence

2009-04-01T09:56:00.004-05:00

I was sent the following: At 04:05:06 07/08/09 it will be the only time this sequence of numbers will be seen. (4 am, 5 minutes, 6 seconds on July 8, 2009). I sent it to many correspondents and received several fun and interesting comments. For example: In Europe it would be 7th of August; what about 4 pm; what about all the time zones? Here, however was an answer that gave me a great chuckle from friend, Mark:

When you finish reading this sentence for the first time, reading it for the first time with your eyes will never happen again.

Other Mysteries of the Moment available for only $50.00 plus tax. Please send your note (US currency only) to Me and remember, when you have sent one 50 dollar bill, that bill cannot be sent again in the same way, at the same time, ever. To continuously experience the unique, send one bill each day. For maximum experience, one bill each hour. Each sending is unique, and can never be repeated. Isn't that something?

Actually, there is something numerologically intriguing about that sequence. Adds up to 3, which means it would be a propitious moment to work on the various triads, inner and outer, etc.

Thanks to everyone for sharing in the enjoyment of this "significant sequence" of numbers.

A Dragon from My Past

2009-03-26T09:21:00.002-05:00

When visiting my grandmother while growing up, I’d always stop and look at a particular pitcher in her china cabinet. I wasn’t allowed to touch it until I was at least 12 or so. It is an ugly mustard color and has weird bumps to simulate dragon skin, for wrapped around the pitcher was a dragon with flashing red eyes, tongue, and claws complete with splashes of gold leaf. His body created the handle. and I was utterly fascinated by it.

Visiting my aunt a couple of weeks ago I picked the pitcher up and looked at it, remembering how much I used to stare at it. This past week the pitcher kept coming to mind as I tried to meditate and struggle through allowing the best health plan for my life. I laughed thinking the universe was telling me to be a fire-breathing dragon – or perhaps to eat only what a dragon would eat.

Last night I remembered a book on Chinese medicine I’d purchased in 2003: Traditional Chinese Medicine by Nan Lu, OMD. Oh – the subtitle? “The Dragon’s Way to Natural, Healthy, Lasting Weight Loss.”

In reading it I am impressed that weight loss is NOT the goal – but being healthy and having a balance Qi (Chi, energy) was the goal. So, I am reading, and I will be learning QiGong to balance the organ meridians. My acupuncturist, Carl, has been talking about Liver Heat and how that organ is out of balance.

The “dragon of my past” has confirmed my following the “dragon of my present.”

Patience

2009-03-23T09:48:00.002-05:00

Soooooooooo, patience is a virtue, eh? Whomever said that did not have my temperment. I have this issue that has been weighing heavily on me for months. It's something over which I have no control (God grant me the serenity to accept the things I can not change...) and yet, with a few choice words from me, things could be sorted out. However, it takes courage (God grant me the courage to change the things I can...) to risk change by forcing the issue. And issues that mature from deep within, slowly, healing totally, take time. Oh, we're back to patience again, are we not? That's when relying completely on our higher power is important. It takes wisdom to allow unconditional love to grow beyond our limited human knowledge. (God grant me the wisdom to know the difference.) Ah, St. Francis, thankyou for walking your walk, and for giving us the words that help us endeavor to endure in the face of uncertainty. God is faithful.

Time

2009-03-14T07:17:00.004-05:00

Timing is everything and we as creatures of time have to abide by it in respect to others. We all can't have the green light -- someone has to wait at the intersection with the red light until it is their time to "go." A fetus takes a certain time to mature before it is his time to come into this world. No matter how quickly you eat, you still have to take the time to nurture your body with food and drink.

Everything happens when the time is right for it to manifest. When you have prepared your mind, body, and spirit for something it becomes the "right time" to happen. When you wait and wait concerning something that involves another person or persons you need to know that even though it is the right time for you, it hasn't happened yet because it isn't the right time for others. One can not be pushed or cajoled into the "right time" to coincide with your schedule. Some never reach a particular goal in this lifetime and will have to do it all over again - that's what reincarnation is for (well, one reason anyway as I understand it.)

Take time, precious time, for yourself today. Go outside, take in a deep breath and smile that you have the freedom to do so. Old hymn from my childhood: "Take time to be holy, speak oft with the Lord..." Taking time for yourself, with yourself, with your higher power is holiness."

Enjoy Joy

2009-03-04T06:57:00.002-06:00

A great way to start the day - or relax at lunchtime - or end the evening -- a rekindling of the reasons why joy is available and how to "en-joy" life. Thanks to friend Andy for sending this to me!

CHECK IT OUT! :)

http://www.thejoymovie.com

When Needing is not Needy

2009-03-03T08:42:00.002-06:00

This touched my soul and is reproduced in part......

I NEED YOU...
(C) 2000 BY AVC
When our eyes have seen a few dozen winters and summers, we learn more about the difference between the emotions of love and lust and sometimes when the wrinkles and grey hairs start to sprout our mature wisdom brings the knowledge of what's really important in our lives.

After many years of loneliness and turning away from temptations that appear to be nice and warm, but fall far short of real happiness, it is then that we learn that we have to become the person we want to find for our self and that in giving, we truly receive.

So when I met you, warm sparks stirred inside me and the sweetness I met in you are making it nice to awaken every day. It doesn't surprise me that I can say easier today than just yesterday that my heart is telling me for once, it's you that I need in my life.

I need you to walk with me on this path, holding hands and smiling alongside. I need you to share my dreams and fears, and wrap my arms around your mind.

The Right Thing to Do

2009-01-25T14:18:00.003-06:00

My brother believed he did the RIGHT thing and kept me away from my mom for the last two years of her life with the threat of having me arrested for trespassing if I came over; he did the RIGHT thing, spent the money set aside from my father's funeral for a headstone and then would not let my sister, aunt, and I buy one; he did the RIGHT thing and told the funeral director to NOT tell me my mother had passed; he did the RIGHT thing and wouldn't let us have a funeral service for her other than graveside (middle of the winter) even though she loved the church. He told the funeral director that he, my sister, and I would sign over the inheritance money from my mother's insurance toward burial costs. He thought he was RIGHT to make this decision without consulting us. He felt as though it was the RIGHT thing to have everything of my mother's and father's estate - everything. He stood up for what he felt was RIGHT without wavering.

My sister had a lot of issues with our brother to the point of his causing her a Bell's Palsy attack. He called her to come to see my mother (hundreds of miles) only to demand things of her and attack her for not doing the RIGHT things that he required. And then told her never to come back. She is now standing up for what she feels is RIGHT and I understand why and celebrate her doing what she feels is RIGHT.

I am also standing up for what I believe to be RIGHT. I believe that because of my brother's actions he has the total responsibility for my mother's debts. My responsibility was ended when I was threatened with arrest if I tried to see her. This is not hear-say -- I have his e-mails telling me this.

Each of us has the God given allowance of standing up for what we believe is RIGHT - even though others may not understand it; even though others you love have a different opinion.

Lightworker's Radiance

2009-01-21T05:46:00.003-06:00

A Lightworker's radiance has shown across the Atlantic ocean. Barry and John, from Spain (England originally) have sent me information about a young woman, Luciana Stiglich. You can see her lovely, enlightening site about Inner Healing by clicking on the link to the right. (For those of you who are bilingual, it is also available in Spanish.

A "Fish Story"

2009-01-12T09:06:00.003-06:00

The fisherman cast his line into a pool of swiftly moving fish. He snagged one that was marked differently than the others. As she was reeled in, she gasped to see the fisherman’s greedy eyes and sighed in relief as the others swam away. After all, when someone goes fishing, they do not catch every fish in the pond. It was just her time.

The officer pulled me over, the only Michigan license plate in a line of cars going the same speed, which was not clearly marked. Or, did I just overlook the sign? Was I not paying attention? That fishing trip will net $121.50 for the state of Indiana. I am wiser. However, even though I'm not bitter, I have not achieved that state of “relief” that the others got away.

Power Animals

2009-01-07T12:15:00.005-06:00

A great informational site on power animals by Steve Farmer.
Check out the "links" area on the right side of the page.
An additional link for ANIMAL TOTEMS has also been added to the links at the right.

Shirley

Christmas at the Vargas, 1954...

2008-12-24T20:13:00.004-06:00

was the first line of a poem my father wrote in that year. It epitomized what I felt was Christmas, a time surrounded with family and love and mystery and surprises and yes, magic. It was a time of beautiful music and decorated pillars in the church and Santa Claus and oranges.

Tonight is "Christmas Eve" and I am reflecting on past years - of what it meant as a child to be in the home of Hungarian descent with all the joy of being and strudels and poppyseed cookies and fried tarts. And then as my own children were small we celebrated the season in our own way - Christmas Eve with his side, Christmas day with mine. Then, a change of religious training and we no longer celebrated the holiday - as it was pagan and not a mass for Christ's death. Eventually we grew and came full circle, celebrating the joy of the Teacher of Teacher's birth.... "Jesus was the reason for the season." Then, two years in a row I celebrated Christmas and Hanukkah in the same household, learning the Hebrew prayers as we lit the Menorah. It was warm and comforting.

This is the third Christmas Eve I am alone....and it truly is a good time for reflection. This past year I met many beautiful people, re-connected with former friends, strengthened bonds between myself and those already dear to me, watched many grow, and was thrilled to be a part of others' healings - mind, body, and spirit.

And my own spiritual path has been opening and I am blessed. Part of me wants that human experience of "Christmas Eve" and the merriment and magic...but even saying that I am excited and anticipatory for what is just waiting there for me to experience..... alone or with others of like-spirit, like-mind.

I started this blogsite to provide a “sounding board” conducive to spiritual growth. Some have contributed without intending to - a few have commented (although I don’t know who Fullmoon Watcher or Anonymous are) and hopefully have made the site more interactive.

Once again, I invite readers to send information, ask questions, write comments. Those who connect in various ways are a part of light workers’ spiritual families. Thus, I extend my love and light to you, my family, Soujourners of Truth.

I will spend time with my Earthly family, Ted, Sandy, and Bryan tomorrow, and I hope to spend time with Debby and her family later in the month. It won’t be the Hungarian-type celebrations I knew as a child, but each will be precious …. ah, the history of Christmases long ago lived.

A Beautiful Day

2008-12-08T07:38:00.003-06:00

It has been said that the Native American warriors, upon going into battle, would smile and say, it is a fine day to die.

Sunday morning, December 7th, dawned as a gorgeous day in Southwest Michigan. It was the day my mother, Irene Julia Varga Swift, age 93, chose to leave this crippling life, leave the pain and confusion caused by a debilitating stroke, and return to spirit.

No one in my family, including her 91-year-old sister, was allowed to see her for almost two years. She existed in her own home, with my brother who for reasons only God understands, felt it best to "protect" her from us. I said good-bye to her over a year ago, when anyone in the family last saw her. I grieved for her at that time. She has finally chosen to be released from that imprisonment and it is in my belief, that she is in the arms of her higher power and others in her spiritual family. Aho.

What is "unconditional" ?

2008-11-06T12:30:00.001-06:00

Have been working on the definition of unconditional - what a word to have in one's vocabulary. It goes hand in hand with the words expectation and hope. If one HOPES for a certain outcome of an issue or if one EXPECTS a certain outcome of an issue the person's participation ceases to be unconditional. I have been really good at throwing that word unconditional around. The universe has seen fit to allow me to learn that and now the responsibility lies within me again to reorganize my thoughts. I'm wondering if it is humanly possible to have an unconditional response to anything.

An Interpretation

2008-10-29T08:30:00.001-05:00

Psalm 23 – King James’ Version – Holy Bible = Interpreted

The Lord is my Shepherd = That's Relationship!
I shall not want = That's Supply!
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures = That's Rest!
He leadeth me beside the still waters = That's Refreshment!
He restoreth my soul = That's Healing!
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness = That's Guidance!
For His name sake = That's Purpose!
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death = That's
Testing!
I will fear no evil = That's Protection!
For Thou art with me = That's Faithfulness!
Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me = That's Discipline!
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies =
That's Hope!
Thou annointest my head with oil = That's Consecration!
My cup runneth over = That's Abundance!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life =
That's Blessing !
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord = That's Security!
Forever = That's Eternity!
Face it, the Lord is crazy about you.
What is most valuable, is not what we have in our lives, but
WHO we have in our lives!

Sent to me by my friend, Terry. Thanks!

The Wolf Within

2008-10-20T14:48:00.002-05:00

A wise, elderly Cherokee man was teaching his grandchildren about life. He said to them, “A fight is going on inside of me; it is a terrible fight, and it is between two wolves...

One wolf is fear, anger, envy, sorrow, regret, greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, lies, false pride, superiority, and ego.

The other is joy, peace, love, hope, sharing, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, friendship, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith. The same fight is going on inside you and inside every other person too.”

They thought about it for a minute and then one child asked his grandfather, “Which wolf will win?”

The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed.”

Thank you, Rich, for sending this.

Wisdom from a Friend

2008-10-20T07:57:00.003-05:00

On losing weight - precipitated by my complaint to him of loose skin:
The choice we face is a few wrinkles OR being fat, being out of breath from walking across the room, can't reach our feet to trim our toenails, have to sit down to do everything, high BP, risk a stroke, and sex is exhausting.....
My choice is a no brainer. Give me a few wrinkles any day. And I'll tell you something else, when I feel good, I don't care how many wrinkles or sags I may have, I will still look good, 'cause looking good is in the eyes and smile. Dan

Prayer for Daily Peace

2008-09-17T12:08:00.005-05:00

May today there be peace within.
.....May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
.........May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
..............May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on
..............the love that has been given to you.
May you be content knowing you are a child of God.
.....Let this presence settle into your bones,
.....and allow your soul the freedom to sing,
..............dance,
..................praise,
......................and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
.....May today there be peace within.

Thank you, Barb, for sharing this.

TIME IS FUN WHEN YOU'RE HAVING FLIES...

2008-09-12T08:51:00.006-05:00

That was said by Kermit the frog... Thought it was funny. But then again, a lot of things seem to be funny to me now that my brain is not sugar-saturated.

Today is day 52 since I started the program of self-improvement. I've lost some weight -- but mostly I've gained some insight. I published my photo today. It was taken three months and 20 pounds ago. Will get another one taken soon.

This is not original - but I liked it and have paraphrased this --- The door to your heart opens from the INSIDE. I have been standing behind a "speak-easy's" door - you know, the one with a small opening that can be opened to look out. Speak easy is a good description for being easy with words - but not really heart-felt.

I noticed there was a real ice-build up around the bottom and it was difficult to open said door. So, with a friend's warmth, helping that to thaw, finally, I am opening the door to my heart, just a crack so far, and letting my words come from my heart -- letting life happen instead of expecting and anticipating life.

Insurance driven medical care....

2008-08-11T10:24:00.002-05:00

A blood sugar reading of 80-120 used to be normal...."they" have lowered it to 70 - 90 being normal -- as "they" have lowered "normal" blood pressure to 120/80 instead of 140/90 that I learned was normal....AND cholesterol which used to be okay at 200 now must be 180 or so... and WHY? So "they" can pump you full of medicines to bring the numbers lower. DAMNATION.

Not only that, but our insurance company now wants us to have all generic drugs. If you can't get a generic "they" want the doctor to prescribe something else.......isn't this just great? Insurance driven medical care....could "they" be "they" ? ? ?

One Day at a Time...

2008-08-08T09:56:00.002-05:00

This is “day 17” of no sugar and no flour and/or wheat products. It has been a mind, body, and spiritual cleansing situation. Besides the weight loss, questions in my life, in several areas, have been resolved in just the right timing. Putting past issues in perspective is easier with a mind not hampered by a sugar stupor. I anticipate each day, knowing it will be filled with learning. I am free to give and receive love and light and joy and healing – free of self-imposed problems. Each day “un dia a la vez” is simple – simple yet not without its challenges.

ATTITUDE

2008-07-07T07:33:00.004-05:00

Spiritual Sister Jodie P. sent this to me and it is SO worthy of reprint. Thank you, Jodie!

There once was a woman who woke up one morning, looked in the mirror, and noticed she had only three hairs on her head. 'Well,' she said, 'I think I'll braid my hair today.' So she did and she had a wonderful day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and saw that she had only two hairs on her head. 'H-M-M,' she said, 'I think I'll part my hair down the middle today.' So she did and she had a grand day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that she had only one hair on her head. 'Well,' she said, 'today I'm going to wear my hair in a pony tail.' So she did, and she had a fun, fun day. The next day she woke up, looked in the mirror and noticed that there wasn't a single hair on her head. 'YAY!' she exclaimed. 'I don't have to fix my hair today!'

Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle .
Live simply, Love generously, Care deeply, Speak kindly....... Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass... It's about learning to dance in the rain.

Attitude is everything.

QUANTUM CONNECTION

2008-06-28T08:07:00.003-05:00

I was intrigued by a statement of a gentleman, whom I had not physically met. He wrote: "It said that the very act of viewing electrons and protons on a micro basis, altered the behavior of those elements of matter. Those same physicists have claimed to have proven that once any two quantum particles have interacted, they can subsequently influence each other no matter how widely they are separated. In other words, if two electrons interact in a lab and one stays in the lab and the other ends up in outer space somewhere, anything that affects the one in the lab, will immediately affect the other in outer space! That requires instant communication beyond the speed of light. Recent experiments have confirmed that this is the way the subatomic quantum world functions. NOW, that suggests a truism on a human behavior level between two enlightened souls. When something affects one soul, the other soul, with which it was previously entwined is also immediately affected!"

My reaction was agreement with the exception of changing his words of choice "WAS PREVIOUSLY" to my words of choice "IS CONTINUALLY" as it applies to humans. Quantum particles are without emotional limitations and can readily interact.

I am implying that in talking about a human mind/body/spirit connection that transcends distance, it is human preferences that impede this sort of connection. The key towards enlightened communication: unconditional acceptance and open-minded response.

Assuming both you the reader, and I, the writer are enlightened beings, my offering this information on this site, your reading this, has touched each of our thought patterns and set off a chain reaction. At least on some subatomic level we have connected... and will remain so - to whatever capacity we open ourselves.

Universal Order

2008-06-26T12:45:00.004-05:00

Friend, Dan, has been sending me things about the hollow earth theory -- and I have been listening to some interesting things on line. We spoke of things "not quite fitting together" and how he is investigating and having wonderful results putting things into place for him, applying the theories he's reading.

My own thought has been that there IS ORDER in the universe. There are many facets and unless we use our BRAINS we just see them as separate, when in actuality all are like a jig saw puzzle - fitting into one another, complimenting, etc. -- People speak of "serendipity" when two things happen that are similar and "just happen" perhaps simultaneously. After reading this material I am considering that nope, there is no such thing as serendipity. It is order. We are just too close to see it all and need to be able to remove our egos to see the bigger picture of existance.

PACE Program

2008-06-26T10:47:00.001-05:00

Well, I said I would “report” about how the PACE program is going. The Cardio-Fit exercise was really going well, but it affected my sciatic nerve and my leg started hurting again. I had been up to 5 sets of 75 on the machine; the chiropractor told me I needed to do something else.

Armed with the determination of MIND over BODY – I did what was needed – I started walking. My heart rate went up 35% after exercise and four minutes later it was FOUR points below the heart rate before the exercise for a MINUS 4.5% gain. WOW. Goes to show you that you don’t need any special equipment or gym membership to take care of yourself – just the determination.

DISCOVERY

2008-06-20T09:54:00.003-05:00

A beautiful 30-year-old friend told me about beginning an exciting regime of weight control and exercise. She said she didn’t want to be overweight, have diabetes, be out of breath climbing the stairs, have a stroke, and just plain look fat 30 years from now. [It struck me, that 30 years her senior, she was describing me.] I applauded her and asked about what she was doing. She told me about “PACE – Rediscovering Your Native Fitness.” Well, I ordered the program on line ($28) and immediately saw the wisdom. After only three days on the program I am amazed at my heart’s response. I am doing sets on my cardio-fit machine. (I used to use it slowly) -- now it is 60 rapidly, rest, 60 rapidly, rest, etc. for 5 times. I sweat.......I breathe hard.........my heart pounds.......I feel good.

Day one - pre-exercise pulse: 66 after exercise: 120 5 minutes later: 96
Day three - pre-exercise pulse: 64 after exercise: 96 5 minutes later: 77

Each day I am using more intensity in the work-out as well. So, what I'm seeing is heart health beginning! I walk from my car to the office every morning -- some times I would have to stop half way up the hill and take a deep breath. This morning, I was at the top of the hill and started down the other side before I realized I wasn't even breathing heavily. AND, that is just in 3 days.

So, I’m chalking this up as a major “life-discovery” – Just sharing.

Elementals

2008-06-10T10:55:00.001-05:00

A connection of two unrelated things that may, on the grander scheme of the universe actually be linked has come to light:

1) - I was sharing elemental pix with my daughter and the same day --
2) - a correspondent sent this Shakespearean quote:
"What is your substance, whereof are you made, That millions of strange shadows on you tend?"

Me thinks Will doth know about elementals!!

BOOK REVIEW

2008-06-04T09:24:00.001-05:00

Just started “The Handbook of Chakra Healing” by Kalashatra Govinda. Wisdom Circle teacher, Laura G. gave a series of lessons, using this for one of the informational sources and she was SO right. This book is a wealth of information.

I believe its premise is that all the chakras are the beginning point from which one can use other modalities and they all work together. If you start from the chakras and branch out use of gemstones, aromatherapy, yoga, ti chi, breathing, etc. are all tied together! Will try to write more about this as I traverse its pages.