Wisdom of Life- Daily Pearls

Recouperation

2009-12-28T08:34:00.002-05:00

Well, it's three days after Christmas. How do you feel? Joyous, excited, or overwhelmed?
It seems like one of those days where you just want to stay on the couch and relax. Some people have the week off, some are already at work.
It is important this week to try and slow down after the big holidays we have just had. Running around, shopping, cooking, and eating. This week might be a good time to do a detox, or get some good exercise.
Planning for New Years? How about being creative with your plans? A quiet night at home, a weekend get a way. Shake things up a bit...most importantly.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 23 of Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-23T09:12:00.002-05:00

Today is the 23rd day of our holiday gift giving. Below is a great quote from Emerson from Lisa Coffey's blog. How can you be of service today?

"Serve self you serve society
Serve society serve yourself."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

Serving is reciprocal. We give of ourselves, and we receive so much in return. It feels good to serve; it feels good to give. Serving society is really a gift we give to ourselves.

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other,

Best,

Thomas

Day 22- Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-22T10:58:00.002-05:00

Day 22 of Holiday Gift Giving----Donate Time or Goods today to those in need....!
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 21- HGG

2009-12-21T09:04:00.002-05:00

The 21st Day of our Holiday Gift Giving.
Spend today thinking of a new tradition you might come up with for the holidays. We have been doing our Holiday Gift Giving Exercise, but how about doing something new for your family or friends.
Taking a walk together on Christmas Day, making a new dessert or snack together, or anything new as a gift to the group. It will be fun and may be something to look forward to for years to come.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 20- Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-20T10:38:00.001-05:00

Happy Sunday Everyone!- Today is day 20 of Holiday Gift Giving. Today Give yourself a rest. Sunday being the classic day of rest....give that gift to yourself and your family...Rest and rejuvenate, it's important this time of year...
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 19 Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-19T15:45:00.002-05:00

Today is Day 19 of our Holiday Gift Giving Event- Since many of you may be doing some Holiday shopping today, try to find someone you can share some cheer with in a retail establishment. Perhaps a salesperson, or a frustrated shopper. Smile at a road rager or let someone ahead of you in line at the grocery store.
Hope your weekend is going well.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 18 Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-18T07:09:00.001-05:00

It's Friday and Day 18 of our Holiday Gift Giving. Give yourself some quiet peaceful time today. Maybe you are attending a holiday function, go easy on yourself and enjoy.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 17- Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-17T05:55:00.002-05:00

The 17th Day- Holiday Gift Giving- Find a pet or an animal.
Give your pet or favorite furry friend a special treat today. Go for a walk, give them a nice bath, bring home something special for them. Perhaps even take a trip to a local animal shelter and give the gift of life to an animal in need, by adopting.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 16 of Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-16T10:20:00.003-05:00

Today is Day 16...How are you feeling? Tired. Today is all about you. Time to give yourself a gift. Rest and rejuvenate today. Avoid the holiday rush, take your time, and rest, A quiet night at home might be just the thing you need before you jump back in tomorrow.
Give this gift of time to yourself and be prepared to receive it.
Take Care of yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Day 15- Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-15T09:12:00.002-05:00

You may want to take things slow today. Day 15 of our holiday giving experience has us so close to our goal that we may be starting to get a little tired. The holiday season is surely a hectic time for most. So today, slow down. Give yourself a break and perhaps allow someone else to do the same.
Extend a deadline at work for someone, take the family out for dinned. Give yourself and your relations a break today.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

One the 14th Day of Holiday Giving My True Love...

2009-12-14T07:58:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the 14th Day of Holiday Gift giving. In the spirit of true love and true giving. Seek out your special someone today and give them a gift.
Most likely you are the gift to them. Carve out a bit of time today for quality moments together.
Wrap yourself up in a bow and show them how much you care.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other,
Best,
Thomas

Lucky Day 13- Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-13T07:56:00.002-05:00

Day 13 of our Holiday gift giving event. We are 1/2 way through on our way to December 25th. Are you noticing anything different in your life?
If you have been giving regularly and not expecting anything in return, you may find that you are receiving some special gifts yourself.
In addition to doing something nice for someone today, why not sit down and right a list of all the the gifts you have in your life. All the wonderful people and relationships you have been blessed with.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Giving Day 12

2009-12-12T09:26:00.002-05:00

Today is the 12th Day of Christmas, or at least the 12th day of our Holiday gift giving event. Let's find a another stranger today and give them some assistance. Caring groceries to the car, digging them out of the snow, offering them a kind word.
Enjoy your Saturday.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Giving Day 11

2009-12-11T10:00:00.001-05:00

Welcome to Day 11 of the Holiday Giving project. Have you been sharing with someone or a group for the last 10 days. Make Day 11 special, it's Friday so find a special someone and share or give them a gift. The give of you is the most precious one out there.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other,
Best,
Thomas

Day 10- Holiday Giving

2009-12-10T09:51:00.002-05:00

Let's keep up the momentum kids of our holiday giving. Today is your chance to make a difference in someone's life.
Since it's the holiday season, chestnuts roasting on an open fire, etc... Why not share some wisdom today. Share an "old chestnut" with a friend or family member. By teaching, we also learn...

Take Care of Each Other and Yourselves,
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Gift Giving- Day 9

2009-12-09T09:58:00.003-05:00

Day 9 of our Holiday Gift Giving...find an animal to share a gift with perhaps speak to your family about rescuing an animal from a local shelter. Take some time today to organize this.
Maybe you could feed a stray cat or dog, or treat your own pet(s) to a special reward for their companionship.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

HoHoHo-Day 8 Holiday Gift Giving

2009-12-08T10:38:00.002-05:00

Ho Ho Ho, it's the 8th day of our Holiday giving exercises and some really exciting things have happened. Have you taken advantage of your opportunities to give. Don't forget, there is one very important person that needs your help and support throughout the season.

That person is yourself. Give yourself something wonderful today, a special treat. You deserve it. You can still give a gift to someone else today, but don't forget about you.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

The Seventh Day of Christmas -Holiday Gify Giving

2009-12-07T07:56:00.002-05:00

We continue our Holiday gift giving today. Since it's Monday why not celebrate by finding a coworker to give a gift to. Tell them how much you appreciate their efforts and working with them.
Take them to lunch, buy them a hot chocolate, or just spend some time chatting.
The Best Things in Life are Free.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other!
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Gift Giving- Day 5

2009-12-06T09:02:00.002-05:00

Sunday is the perfect day to continue our Holiday gift giving. Whether you are Christmas shopping or going to church, find someone and give them a gift....Spread the love to humanity
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Gift Giving- Day 4

2009-12-05T09:05:00.002-05:00

The weekend is a great time to give of yourself. It's the 4th day of our special Holiday giving event.
Find someone today in need and use the resources you have been given to help them.
Read the previous blogs if you would like some clues on how to support your fellow humans.
Have a great day.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Gift Giving Day 3

2009-12-04T10:17:00.003-05:00

Today is the 3rd day of our Holiday Gift Giving event.
Find someone you don't know today and give them something, wishing them a Happy Holiday Season.
Remember this doesn't have to be a material possession. Your wisdom is gift enough.
The best things in life are free.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday Gift Giving Day 2

2009-12-03T10:13:00.002-05:00

Did you follow thru on giving someone of gift yesterday? Your time, your talents, your love.
Stay true to this commitment.
Everyday between now and December 25th, give someone a gift. It doesn't need to be material, the best things in life are free.

Be Good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Gift Giving

2009-12-02T10:45:00.002-05:00

Today's thought.
Can you give something to someone everyday between now and December 25th? Buy a stranger a cup of coffee,help someone carry their groceries or take extra time to listen to a freind.
Find someone each day for the next 24 days to give something to. It doesn't have to be something you buy. The gift of yourself is enough. I would love to hear about what you are giving.
Have a great day.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Foregiveness

2009-12-01T12:08:00.002-05:00

December is the season of peace, love, and joy. It is a season of caring and sharing with friends and family.
I would like to give you all a challenge for the month. Find someone you have been at odds or argued with. Someone you may not have spoken to in many years because of a dispute. Find these people and make a mends...
Write a list today of everyone in your life that has fallen away because of some negative situation. Seek them out and reconnect, regardless of their response to you. It is the best present you could give. Forgiveness and Compassion.
Have a great day.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Holiday traditions

2009-11-30T11:23:00.002-05:00

During this hectic time of year, we normally fall into some old patterns. Many of them began when we were children. We might think of these patterns as family traditions.

Such traditions included: setting up the Christmas tree the day after thanksgiving, a party on Christmas Eve, and making sure all the shopping is done by a certain date.

See how creative you can be, and come up with some new traditions like: spending time with your family each night maybe reading a story or playing games, go for a nature walk, have a snowball fight, or go to a Christmas concert.

This time of year is about family and friends and building stronger ties. Find ways to do that, that are fun and make the holiday season even brighter.

Have a great day.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other,
Best,
Thomas

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T10:28:00.003-05:00

Safe travels to everyone today in preparation for the Thanksgiving Holiday.
Enjoy your friends and family.....and.... Try one little experiment.
Observe yourself around people, your eating habits, and how tradition may affect you in the next couple of days. are you behaving the way you always do around this time of year?
No need to stuff yourself like the turkey, that's what leftovers are for...

Have a blessed day everyone.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other,
Best,
Thomas

All is in Order

2009-11-24T09:49:00.002-05:00

I began my holiday festivities early this year. Over the weekend I had two friends come and stay for a pre-Thanksgiving Celebration. We had turkey dinner, etc... A great time.

Over the weekend, I realized how nervous I get taking time off from working, or at least the possibility of taking clients. As these thought arose, I just let myself sit with them for a moment, then go back to the enjoyment of my friends. Really enjoying their company and our short time together.

Interestingly enough, clients began booking around this time frame. Mysteriously, uninterested in seeing me until after my friends were gone. There is a flow happening here. A cooperation between myself and the universe, making sure I do not miss a moment of the fun or the opportunities. A lovely reminder that everything is always as it should be and things run super smoothly if you just go with the flow. You don't have to change anything...just your mind about them.

Have a terrific day and go with the flow.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Fresh Pair

2009-11-13T09:15:00.002-05:00

Today feels like a day of fresh starts. Like putting on a fresh pair of undies. Crisp, clean, and ready to take on the day.
The feeling of a fresh start brings much new energy into your life. Do you remember your first day at a new job or new school? A bit scary, anxious, but once you got into the swing, everything worked out well. The "newness" became part of your life in a rather short amount of time, sometimes with great ease.
Where can you make a fresh start today? Love, work, friends, finances? Seek out your fresh start for today and carry it throughout the weekend. What do your weekend undies look like? Maybe you can coordinate them with your mood.
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Intuition

2009-11-12T08:44:00.002-05:00

Has your gut been telling you anything lately? Are you taking time to listen to that little voice in your head? Intuition comes to us in many forms. ..sight, sounds, smell, or a constant movie playing over and over in our heads.
Notice the world around you today. Are you humming the same song over and over? What are the words of that song saying to you? Do you keep seeing a name or number again and again? Are you envisioning a scene in your mind? Just for a moment stop and observe any and all of these occurrences.
These phenomenon are probably in the background of your daily activities and go mostly unnoticed. Try and bring them to the foreground. What are these messages telling you? Where do you think they are coming from? Hmmmm. The key to intuition is observation. What's really happening in the world around you?

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Purpose

2009-11-11T09:46:00.002-05:00

It came to me in a dream last night. I dreamt about an old job I had once. It was a job I didn't care much for, but still had a tie to it emotionally. It gave me the feeling that I was needed and vital. I had a sense of purpose, even though I would never want to do it again.
For a moment as I awoke, I thought, I knew that work, I was good at it, people needed me, and I enjoyed them for the most part. Why don't I just do it again? NO! But it did make my realize that I need to seek out more of that in my current life's work.
Do you feel a sense of purpose in your life or your work. Perhaps if you are feeling a bit dulled down, you may be lacking this quality in your life. Define your purpose today. Your passion. Who needs and depends on you? Do you feel vital to this group? Are you passionate? Seek out purpose today!
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Completion- finding the pearl

2009-11-10T08:10:00.002-05:00

Finish what you have started today. Work projects, home projects, or detailed tasks. There may be uncertainty lurking around you, but you have the skills and tools to continue on your journey. Focus on what you have to work with, not what is alluding you and most importantly have patience.
Remember, the world is your oyster but sometimes it takes time for the shell to open. Don't force it, allow it to reveal itself as the beautiful pearl that it is. Savor every moment of the experience.

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Soul Mate

2009-11-09T09:45:00.002-05:00

Do you have a special person in your life? A friend, partner, confidant? This is your time to seek out or reaffirm this person. It doesn't have to be a romantic relationship, perhaps a parent or someone who inspires you. The person who makes your soul sing.

Take time to enjoy this person today and let them know how much they mean to you. It will help you get the week off with a bang and also establish support for your upcoming projects. Brainstorm together, try new activities together, and become each other's biggest fans.

Enjoy the company of your soul's mate!
Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

What do you really need to do?

2009-11-06T09:27:00.002-05:00

I was chatting with a friend yesterday who was completely overwhelmed by his life situation. Nothing seemed to be going right. He was so angry at everyone; friends, family, and colleagues.

He felt victimized in every aspect of his life. He complained that he wasn't being respected, loved, or protected. He was at a loss for what he needed to do to dig himself out of this perpetual abyss in which he finds himself.
As per my usual directness, I simply said, you don't have to do anything. He was so stressed at the thought of having to solve his perceived issues, he was missing the point and the lessons behind them. If you act like a victim, you will be a victim. If you believe it, you will be it.

Well this advice went over like a prostitute in church and I become the target of his rage. He pointed out to me that everyone has basic needs and his were not being met. He determined his own personal needs using Maslow's hierarchy of needs developed by Abraham Maslow in 1943.

These needs include the following:
Physiological needs- like food, water, sleep,etc.
Safety- security, employment, morality, family
Love and Belonging- friendship, family, intimacy
Esteem- confidence, property, achievement
Self Actualization- lack of prejudice, acceptance of facts.

I pointed out to my friend that this list is from a book dealing with what motivates human behavior, not what our true basic needs are. Ok, perhaps Maslow did believe these were true needs, but he was into psychology! Unfortunately, my friend's entire self esteem and worth is based on this list.
The list seems to focus on exterior qualities or things which we must find outside ourselves for fulfillment. The list is for the most part ego based. Most importantly, as good of a model as it is for individuals to aspire to, it was developed in 1943. Have we not become a bit more enlightened since that time? Are we not discovering the truly important things in life? Perhaps, not.

My point is that there is a fine line between wants and needs and we should not be looking outside ourselves to see what we truly want or should have, be, or do. Seeking advice and counsel is always beneficial, but discerning for ourselves the right path, leads to true growth and enlightenment. And there is always the spiritual approach, remember what spirituality is?

As they say, you can lead a horse to water...Haven't heard from my friend since yesterday. Hopefully he is thinking about what I said, not feeling victimized yet again.

Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Power

2009-11-05T10:42:00.002-05:00

Today is the day to take back your power. Remember that no matter how your life is going, you are the creator of your own destiny. Speak your mind, take back your voice, and let yourself be heard.
At the end of the day, even if we have the support of many in our lives, the final power rests in our hands. We make the decisions, whether to concede and go along with another person, or fight for what we want? Which will you do today?

You got the POWER!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_BRv9wGf5pk

Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other Today.
Best,
Thomas

Self Review

2009-11-04T07:41:00.002-05:00

Today is a day to review where you have been, which will help you clear a path to where you are going. This is not the time to live in the past, rather a chance to learn from your past mistakes and correct behaviors that hinder your progress.
Seek out patterns in your life which have lead you down the wrong path at times. Acknowledge them and take steps to move forward. Rally support if necessary, this is a day your friends will love to help you.

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Inner Peace and Guidance

2009-11-03T07:27:00.002-05:00

Today work on your inner peace and guidance. It is said the following list will help you avoid stress and strain in your life.

-Be honest and kind.
-Be free from anger.
-Abstain from immoderate behavior. Everything in moderation.
-Be nonviolent and calm.
-Observe cleanliness in yourself and your environment.
-Be charitable toward others.
-Observe a regular daily routine.
-Be loving and compassionate.
-Be respectful, especially to teachers and elders.
-Keep the company of the wise.
-Be modest, have good manners.
-Follow "your religious beliefs", be self-aware.
-Keep a positive outlook.
-Devote yourself to the development of higher states of consciousness.

How many practices on this list are part of your life?

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.

Best,

Thomas

Fresh Starts

2009-11-02T08:15:00.002-05:00

Today is day of new beginnings. Not forced, knock down the wall new beginning, but gentle and subtle changes. Explore something artistic for yourself and tap into your creativity, you will be surprised what you are capable of. This new found joy will open doors for you.

Don't let yourself be fearful of these changes or chances you may be taking. This new venture is really for your own enjoyment and... minimally will be extremely gratifying to you. Which is really the most important person to impress.

"Sometimes your only transportation is a leap of faith." Have faith in yourself and your untapped abilities. This may become a new passion of yours.

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Gentleness

2009-10-30T10:31:00.003-04:00

Be gentle with yourself today. Do you push or strain, be quiet and calm in your interactions.
Most importantly be kind to yourself. Carry this throughout the weekend. Move gently and softly...no need to strain or struggle... Be kind to you.
It was once said that every time we criticize ourselves, we break our own hearts.(Swami Kriaplu)

Have great weekend. Happy Halloween.
Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Jump the Hurdles Today

2009-10-29T08:59:00.002-04:00

Yesterday was about living your passion, today you may have realized there are some hurdles to get over. These may be issues you have been experiencing for some time, or a new discovery.

Stay positive and upbeat, you are making more out of the problems than you need to. The worst is behind you and you will overcome these difficulties without a problem. Just have faith and keep a positive attitude. You are almost of the the hump.

Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Live Your Passion

2009-10-28T09:54:00.003-04:00

Today is a day to live your passion. What are you passionate about? What makes your heart sing?
This may be confusing to some of you. You may think that you current job situation or project is a passion of yours and it may not be. Spend time today differentiating between passions and responsibilities.

Just because you are doing well at work, doesn't mean you are passionate about the job or the organization you work for. If you work for yourself are you excited about your clients and public message. If you are a homemaker, are you energized caring for your family?

In the words of my mentor, Joe Monkman, are you living your J.O.B. ?, Journey of Outrageous Bliss(http://www.earthspiritworks.com).

Bliss and Passion walk hand in hand. Find Passion today!

Be Good to Yourselves and Each Other.
Best,
Thomas

Dig Deep

2009-10-27T09:00:00.003-04:00

Today might feel a bit lethargic. Dig deep and find your inner energy source. Once you get on a roll you won't be able to stop yourself.
You have enough potential power inside you to power a city, see if you can find it today and let your light burn bright.
There is nothing that you can't do.

Take Care of Yourselves and Each Other,
Thomas

Details

2009-10-26T09:29:00.002-04:00

Today's message is pay attention to details. Make sure you are not leaving any lose ends or people out of your plans. Whether this is intentional or not.

Group collaboration and teamwork help to make sure all the bases are covered. Dot your "i's" and cross your"t's".

Take Care of Yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Adventure

2009-10-23T09:30:00.002-04:00

How adventurous are you? Do you try new thing, go in different directions, shake things up from time to time? Well, today is your day.
Take some time to try something new. Drive home from work a different route, eat at a new restaurant, change your routine for the day. Get your self warmed up for a great weekend. And remember to be adventurous.
Have a great weekend.
Be good to yourselves and each other...
Best,
Thomas

Brevity and Clarity

2009-10-22T09:08:00.002-04:00

After yesterday's short and sweet blog, I made a decision that the Wisdom of Life blog needs to be more direct and right to the point. I realized that I myself never take the time to read lengthy pieces unless I am using them as a reference.Especially first thing in the morning. Also, since I am a big believer is change....it's time to change. Be ready for the new abbreviated blog.

What's today message? Keep your communications short, sweet, and to the point. Speak from your heart, but speak your truth. The truth will set your free...Sound familiar? Speak up, speak out, and speak with kindness and compassion...

Have a great day. Take care of yourselves and each other....
Best,
Thomas

Boundless

2009-10-21T09:16:00.003-04:00

Today is about being boundless and going for the gold. I have talked a lot in recent times about being held back or not allowing yourself to shine. This is the day to really make it happen for yourself.

No matter what it is today, speaking your mind, sharing a new idea, trying for that new career. Go for it! You are a boundless creature, meaning without bounds. So go outside your boundaries today, try something new...You are only limited by your own imagination...

Short and sweet....SHINE TODAY! Go get 'em tiger.

Be good to yourself and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Perserverance

2009-10-20T08:52:00.002-04:00

Ever had one of those days that feels like the world is falling apart? You have done your work, done the right things, and still....it seems like the Universe smacks you in the face? This a common occurrence to most, so don't take it personally.

What might the universe be saying when this happens? There is perhaps a lesson which still needs to be learned or maybe a final test before true success arrives. Some people would call it the darkness before the light. Usually these situations arise to give us some big emotional and energetic charge. They help us to feel angry, to feel afraid, to feel sadness. The purpose? To release pent up emotions in the body, to learn the lessons they have to offer, and to grow as spiritual and human creatures.

Your state of mind really assists you in looking at life's challenges. Life's issues can also be opportunities to discover what is "not quite right" in you life. They help you o make changes and move on. Are you getting the messages being sent from the universe?

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Finding Your Tribe

2009-10-19T09:16:00.002-04:00

Throughout my postings and programs I have conducted over the last couple of months, I have noticed an interesting phenomenon. As I write or lead a group I spend a great deal of my time trying to motivate people, show them options in their lives, and support and assist them.

My writings are posted for broad groups of people to see. Still, unfortunately, I find that most people are more interested in whats for dinner or how many people they have killed on Mafia Wars. I don't take this personally, as it has really helped me realize that it is important to find a group of like minded people to share messages and guidance with.

Finding your tribe in life is crucial. It helps you build a sense of community, feel support, and assist in each others personal and professional growth. The individuals in your tribe share your views and are most likely on a your life path or a similar one. It affords you the opportunity to, "Preach to the choir." To the people who share the same beliefs and are looking for more direction.

Do you have a tribe in your life? Is it family, friends, church groups? Who really "gets" you. Who understands the person that you are and where you are going in your life? Who accepts you just as you are? Send out some smoke signals today and see if you can draw those people closer to you.

Subscribe to this blog if you want to join this tribe. To promote health, wellness, and peace to the planet. Be passionate, fearless, and have boundless energy.

Take care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Aging

2009-10-16T08:47:00.003-04:00

On this festive day, as I celebrate my 40th Birthday, I have decided to write about aging. Uh Oh...midlife crisis eminent...Are you kidding me? I am not feeling old at all, in fact younger than I did when I was 25. What I find interesting, is how the world views people over 40 and how the 40 year olds view themselves.

I realized over the last few months that surveys, the media, dating sites,etc.. seem to have 40 as a cut off age. People advertise..., anyone under 40...or check the box if you are between 32 and 40. What is supposed to happen when you turn 40 exactly, that makes you change so greatly? Do I look different than I did yesterday when I was still 39?

Social conditioning seems to have us putting ourselves out to pasture. I see this, but in no way feel it myself. I am still the crazed 12 year old I have always been and always will be. However, that isn't the case for everyone.

A friend of mine, in his 40's constantly puts himself down. He states, "That he isn't the man he used to be." Talk about putting words into actions. He is depressed, lacking healthy relationships, and very lonely. In reality, he has made himself into, "not the man he used to be.

I have a different approach to getting older, which makes it quite invigorating. There atwo simple philosophies I live by; one yogic, the other, everyday wisdom.
First in yogic terms, you are only as young as your spine is flexible. I know women who can do full back bends and are 80? In everyday terms, as I stated earlier this week. The first true signs of age are not wrinkles, but regrets. When you look a regrets, see them as opportunities. It may change the way you are feeling.

How are you feeling about your age and where you are right ? Me, I am 40 and fabulous. I know what I want out of life, I know what I have to offer, and everyday is a feel good day, because I am the Boss! Heaven on Earth!

Have a great weekend.
Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

The Constant Student

2009-10-15T09:58:00.002-04:00

Its seems in day to day life people are always rushing around never taking the proverbial chance to, "smell the roses". This usually means they make quick decisions and don't always have time to really ponder issues in their lives. Because of this, many of life's lessons are missed. The "blinders" are on so tightly that we don't look around ourselves for life's learnings. Lessons from family, friends, and even strangers on the street.

How many times have you been in the grocery store or driving, and someone cuts in front of you or bumps into you and you think, "Hello, there is a world around you?" Perhaps that is your lesson. "Hey, there is a world around you!" What are you learning from that...?

A mentor of mine once said, during the course I was taking, that she was the leader, the teacher, sharing her knowledge for the duration of the class. But, when the course finished she resumed her role as a student of the material. That showed an ever present sense of wonder and exploration to me which I really admired.

Are you a student of life or do you simply move through getting things done? Are you really seeing lessons in everyday living or just trying to make it to the end of the day, week, month? Try and learn one new thing today; no matter what it is. Find lessons in misfortunes as well as successes and chance meetings. There is always a greater plan at work.

When the student is ready, the master appears. (Buddhist Proverb). Are you a willing and ready student?

Take Care of yourselves today and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Apologies and regrets.

2009-10-14T07:49:00.003-04:00

Lately, I have been thinking about times in my life, when I did some pretty mean things. These instances involved me being hurtful to others. Thankfully, these occurrences happened when I was younger...before I turned 30. I guess as I am turning 40 in a few days, I have been taking inventory of how my life has gone...my challenges, success, and regrets.

I have accepted many of life's experience as just that. I don't have any regrets for how my life has gone or situations I have found myself in. These were wonderful learning experiences, no matter how hard they were at the time. The only regret that stays with me are the times, when I feel, I have hurt others. Circumstances where I went too far and overreacted... was mean and even sometimes cruel. As I reflect, I can only guess why I became so angry or disheartened. I guess, at the time, to maintain my sense of control over others or to bully others like I was being bullied at times.

Some of these instances are ancient history and I am not sure that the "victims" would still remember the circumstances or even care anymore. The important thing is that I do. This energy of not feeling "forgiven" is still stuck. Acting like the incident never happened is not allowing the "truth" to be spoken and heard.

Have you ever hurt anyone and then pretended that it never happened? Find that person(s) today and have a conversation about it, or at least find a way to apologize. Speaking the truth will surely set you free. I have my list of people and will be working on this. Do you have yours?

Just in case I forget anyone...hopefully you will read this..."I am sorry if I have done anything to make you feel small or if I have hurt you in any way." I was being small myself at the time and didn't appreciate who you are. I am different now and see your true, magnificent self...thank you.

Regrets are the first sign of age...remove them from your life.

Be good to yourselves and each other today.
Best,
Thomas

Honestly- I'm just not that into you.

2009-10-13T09:32:00.003-04:00

I had the chance to go on a date on Sunday, which actually only lasted about 15 minutes. No, it's not the kind of date you are thinking about...haha. It was a let's meet, get to know each other, have coffee, etc...To protect the identity of this person, I will refer to them as "the date".

"The date" decided we should meet at a McDonald's parking lot, (which should have been my first clue). "The date" was running late, but text ed me. I sat and waited for about 20 minutes. Strike one, I am not a fan of tardiness. When "the dat"e finally arrived, they did not look anything like the pictures emailed to me. In fact, quite a bit older and heavier. Strike two! Not that older and heavier wasn't OK, but the misrepresentation was not appreciated. Have you been there?

We chatted for a few moments in the parking lot and I suggested we go somewhere for coffee(hoping McDonald's wasn't an option). However, being honest with myself I was just being nice. I wasn't attracted or interested in "the date" what so ever. I thought at best we could become friends, but "the date" was so indecisive about everything I had no idea what to do.

Abruptly, "the dat"e said, "ya know I think I'm gonna head out, I have a lot to do today, is that ok?" I said, "sure no problem." As "the date" drove away I thought, "Wow, brushed off by someone I had no interest in anyway."

As I drove home, I thought "the date" was kind of a jerk , but then I realized the gift that had been granted me. My date released me from a situation I didn't know how to get out of myself. I realized that I tend to sacrifice my feeling and wants for others. I needed to hear honesty....so I could learn honesty. The fact was I was not at all "into" my date, but would have stuck it out so they didn't feel bad or rejected. That would have done us both a disservice and I would have been misrepresenting my feelings. I am so thankful that "the date" just wasn't that into me.

So be honest, but gentle in your communications today. You really can say... in a nice way, "I am just not that into you."

Take care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Dreaming, Visioning

2009-10-09T10:11:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday. I hope the week has treated you well and that you are ready to enjoy this holiday weekend.

My message for today is a simple one. ...Dream of the life that you want!
Spend this weekend imagining what you would like your life to look like, believe it can happen, and bask in the joy and bliss that it is yours.

Sound hard? let me help you out a little. You can dream or vision in many different ways. Here are some examples:
1. Sit in a quiet place, turn off the TV and phone, close your eyes and simply pretend you have the life, house, partner, career, etc that you desire. Don't just wish; believe and feel it is possible. Imagine you are walking around the new house, driving the car, walking down the beach with the new partner. Try this everyday for a few moments.
2. Write a list of dreams. Don't hold back dream big. Write them down and read them everyday...again feel what it would be like to experience your dreams.
3. Visioning can be done by taking a piece of poster board and attaching photos of things you would like to do or see or have to it. Look at it everyday and visualize what you want.... and feel it.

These dream techniques have been around forever and are from many different sources. Personally, my experience with visioning has been amazing. As an example, from my last vision board, within one years time I received everything on it. Trips to Europe, changing jobs, a new business venture, unbelievable learning opportunities, and the list goes on.

What are you waiting for? Start dreaming today. Your job is not to decide how your dreams will come true, just dream and believe....dream and believe...and FEEL... with all your heart that you are receiving and you deserve to receive...

You deserve all life's treasures. Have a wonderful weekend.

Be good to yourselves and each other!
Best,
Thomas

Life Experience

2009-10-08T09:55:00.003-04:00

I am noticing these days that many people are big on preaching about attracting abundance into your life, finding spirituality( GOD), fulfilling your life purpose, etc... . I have listened to countless individuals who have read book after book on varous subjects and consider themselves authorities. Their ideas may resonate with you, but you have no touchstone with which to believe.

It has always been my strong belief, that though reading books is wonderful and listening to audio CDs and lectures is great to improve you knowledge, there is no real substitute for direct life experience. For example, some people read the Bible and learn a great deal from it's teachings( not an opinion, just an observation). However, when talking to these people they always speak about life and it's lessons in the third person. "Well, Jesus said, or John said, or so and so said." They rarely speak in the first person using their own voice and life experience.

It appears, they have lost their own sense of self divinity and have not taken their knowledge into the world; so to speak. An example would be if a car salesman tells you to buy a particular car because his Aunt Bertha bought one and she loves it. You have no relationship with Aunt Bertha and are a mere acquaintance with the car dealer. How can you make a purchase and believe? Some would say Faith. Perhaps. But faith backed up by life experience is a whole lot more convincing.

People can say they have faith and believe in God or a higher power. But, the most convincing examples of this faith are those who actually tell of life experiences and how they have "felt" the presence of "holiness", or how spirit works in their lives. I don't mean to get bogged down in religious chatter today, it's simply a strong example. When we speak from the third person about what someone else said, it completely moves us out of the equation. Plus, it puts us in the position of speaking for them, which is just wrong.

How often do you speak about a belief in the third person... what he or she said? If you are trying to gain support for your cause or teach someone a life lesson, teach them through a story about your life, maybe using your reading as a reference.

Speaking in the first person is a powerful way to drive your point home. Example: "Apples are a great food this time of year. I bought some the other day and they were absolutely delicious, you should try them." Instead of, "My Aunt Hazel says apples are great this time of year. She bought some the other day. I have never had an apple, but she says they are the best."

Stop taking Aunt Bertha and Aunt Hazel's word for it. If you read or hear something and are inspired, bring it into your own life, see where it reasonates with you. It will actually make you are stronger believer. Then... passionately share it with the world! People will feel your passion and know you have really experienced your own message.

Be good to yourselves today and each other (not because I say so, but because that is what you experience in life)
Best,
Thomas

Soul Dance

2009-10-07T09:17:00.002-04:00

Since so many people are asking me about what our Soul Dance event is. I thought I would take the time today to talk about it.

Who? Who should be taking part in Soul Dance?
Anyone who enjoys moving and letting themselves go. Anyone who needs a change of pace and is feeling a bit stuck with their life. Anyone who wants to experience great bliss.

What? What is Soul Dance?
Soul Dance is a compilation of different styles of movement including ecstatic dance, yoga, meditation in motion, and tribal. But there isn't any choreography. I simply give clues to suggest movement and the participants let their bodies do what they want. It is a chakra clearing and awakening at the same time; exercise and fitness are bi-products. People have experienced great transformations during Soul Dances.

Where and When? Where and when do you do Soul Dance?
Check out my website to see the next adventure.
www.findyoursanctuary.org

Why do Soul Dance? Well, I would say because it is really fun to start out with. To help alleviate blockages in your life is another a good reason. The dance is very freeing; physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This is not a religious based practice, so there is no dogma. The only thing you need to believe in is yourself.

Any other Question? Please contact me by email: thomas@findyoursanctuary.org

Have a great day!
Take care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Feng Shui

2009-10-06T10:38:00.002-04:00

The art of organizing your surroundings to energize your life. I must admit, that although I am very aware of energy and space around me, I have only dabbled in Feng Shui throughout my life.

By dabbling I mean, arranging my furniture, adding energizing colors, wind chimes, and water features to enhance my surroundings. Well, perhaps that's more than just a dabble.

In the last few days as I have been writing and looking for ways to inspire and uplift myself. My thoughts came back to the practice of Feng Shui. I quickly hauled out my books and started looking around my house. I realized, the challenging areas in my life translated into the rooms that were challenging and in disarray in my house.

By disarray I mean, "in the process of being remodeled". "In the process of being remodeled" could have described my whole house at one time. But now, as projects have been completed and the place becomes more livable, even cozy, I see how the improvements have brought about life changes.
So yesterday, I put Feng Shui to the proverbial test and started working on a room which was in need of finishing...the downstairs bathroom. This bathroom is in the wealth and prosperity section of my house and although I am comfortable, I wasn't feeling all that prosperous.

So, I began...drywall hanging, wall spackling, priming, and space cleaned. Amazingly, just the beginning process have already created a positive effect. In just one day, new clients have taken an interest in my practice, I have a new teaching gig, and I can feel the flow happening. I can't wait to finish the room now and see what else will happen.

Have you ever spent time looking at your space and experimenting with Feng Shui? I find it's best to work with it as an experience rather than just take someone's word that it works.
Does your space bring chaos or joy into your life? Play around with Feng Shui and see what happens. There are various books on the subject. Check them out.

Most importantly, have fun...cleaned and organized spaces improve energy greatly. Especially children's rooms. Have the kids help...as Mary Poppins says, "Well begun is half done"

Have a great day. Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

End of Your Rope

2009-10-05T08:55:00.002-04:00

Do you ever feel like you are at the end of your rope? No money is the bank or maybe even in the red? Tired, nothing working out your way. Seems like everything is an uphill climb? How do you feel about this situation...not only mentally, but physically.

I can remember times in my life when I had not much to work with. I would sit around for hours and try to figure out what I could do to put things back together. A new job, borrow money, beg. I quickly realized, at times like these it's important to go inside yourself. Figure out what you are feeling not only mentally but physically. What is your body telling you, where do you feel these emotions(belly,heart, throat) and what is it you are feeling(fear, anger, resentment)?

In these circumstances the universe is trying to tell you something. Not that you are undeserving of wealth and prosperity, but maybe that you need to change your dialogue with yourself about your finances, career, or life situation etc... Perhaps you have some tied up emotions that need to be expressed. Are you acting desperately? Or are you sitting quietly surveying your personal landscape, feeling the feelings, opening yourself up to the messages of the universe and it's lessons. Receiving divine inspiration.
Remember, as I have said before. Nothing to "DO", just "BE"!

It is usually when we have fallen to our greatest depths that we rise up to great heights with faith and perseverance. Rise like the phoenix today with faith and tenacity. The universe will not let you down. I promise.

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Action versus Non action

2009-10-02T09:44:00.004-04:00

Have you ever felt stuck in your life? Like nothing is moving forward, like you can't get ahead. The word stagnation seems to come to mind. In this day and age it is sometimes easy to get rooted in a spot and feel like you are going nowhere fast.

The question is action or non action. In Eastern thought it is said that there is nothing we need to "do",.... just "be". This philosophy stems from the idea that we really have no control over what is happening around us. We can shape our world personally with our thoughts and words, but the external world is beyond our control. We are just part of the great dance of life.

So if the bank account looks low or the job is a dead end, perhaps consider that there is a life lesson involved or you are sending out a message of..."my job is crap". Therefore it is. Take the opportunity to delve deeper into your feelings around the situation...Right Now, Today. Source out your root thoughts and feelings about your situation. Are you afraid you don't have enough money, status, love, etc...One you learn the root cause and face it head on.... the concern vanishes. What do you have to lose anyway?This life you are leading is just an illusion anyway. You are a spiritual being having a human experience. What is the story you choose to experience.

Search within yourself today and find deep knowing that there is nothing you need to "do" just "be". Live your life in the present moment. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery, Today is a gift. So open up your "present"..lol... and see what life has in store.

Be good to yourselves and each other...have a great weekend!
Best,
Thomas

Space Clearing

2009-10-01T09:56:00.003-04:00

Today the pellet stove men are here cleaning my stove and delivering a fresh ton of pellets to keep me warm this winter. I was very excited about their arrival as my stove hasn't been working properly and I am anxious to get it fired up. The flames are very soothing to me.

The stove is in my workspace where I write and do all of my "creative things". So it is a really nice energetic space...open, creative, vibrant. I have temporarily moved to a different but nice space to ponder the meaning of life and why the universe exists, etc...

The workmen have been really great. They unloaded 1 ton of pellets into my barn, no problem and have moved into my house to work on the actual stove...Here's where we hit complications. As they work...the frustration of the screws not loosening, the soot being excessive, the "OMG, look at that thing, is that a hole? Yikes, negative, negative energy. I am starting to feel one thing about my beautiful room...POLLUTED. I am seeing these poor men are not very spiritually minded, so I am willing to allow their outbursts etc...But the point is to realize that this space will need to be cleared once they leave.

Have you ever been in a environment were you didn't feel quite right. Maybe unexplained anger, confusion, pain, sadness, etc...Perhaps consider it is the energy of the space you are in. Do you ever feel that way when entering your yoga class or a temple? Usually no... as your teacher has probably prepared the space and made it sacred for the practice.

Do you have spaces in your house that feel "funny" to you? Consider perhaps having you space cleared by a professional. It works wonders and can help you get rid of blockages in energy in the house and yourself. Don't underestimate the power of bad energies in your living space. Keep things neat and clean as to not attract negativity.

How about a day of Fall cleaning today or this weekend?
Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

You are doing it wrong!!!

2009-09-30T09:45:00.002-04:00

Projects, projects, projects. This week I have been talking about tasks and goal and all those lovely little "necessities" of life that we think we need to accomplish. Even the simplest of tasks, like making the morning coffee or tea, getting the newspaper,walking the dog, etc... We plan, execute, and then someone comes along as says, "UH, you are doing it wrong!"

The ego mind goes into a hissy...What?... me doing it wrong?, what?... me being judged? And so, the internal conversation begins. We start judging ourselves, but mostly we start judging the other person. "Who do they think they are?" "How dare they?" "I'd like to see them do a better job!"
I experienced this fully yesterday while engaging in a work/meditation project. The task...cleaning and priming a floor working with a group of spiritually minded people. Donating my time.

The project was done as a meditation going deep inside and staying in the present moment throughout the physicality of the project. I was really into it, deep in my space. Watching and being fully aware of the broom, the brush, and the roller.

Unfortunately, at every turn...I was doing it wrong. I wasn't scrubbing the floor enough, my primer coat wasn't heavy enough. If there was a problem, I was at the center of it. I was judged the whole day.

Thankfully, I only judged myself for one minute and it was early on in the project. For that one minute I thought, "Do these people really think I am lazy and am not into this practice?" This one thought brought me more deeply into what I was doing and even though the verbal and non verbal judgments continued throughout the day, I pressed on in my meditation. Most importantly, not judging myself, but doing my best.

What is judgment about in your life? Are people judging you or are you telling yourself stories that they are? Are the judgments coming from their mouths are are you putting those thoughts out there. Is this a common internal conversation? "They must think I am lazy?" "Do they really think I don't know what I am doing?"

This type of thought pattern makes us feel small and is a violent practice against ourselves. My experience, yesterday wasn't about being judged for the work I was doing. It was a learning experience about the stories I tell myself and how I judge me...or don't.

I just kept remembering this quote that I love. "Criticizing yourself is like breaking your own heart." (Swami Kripalu) How often do you break your own heart? Isn't it time to bring love to yourself and leave the judgements behind. Just do your best and the rest will fall into place..

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Goals Versus Dreams

2009-09-29T06:53:00.002-04:00

I woke up this morning knowing it was going to be a busy day. Well, at least that is the belief that I sent out into the Universe.

It was necessary for me to wake up at 6:30am which I dislike greatly. My ego was in turmoil over this. The negative thoughts started pouring forward. Ugghhh, "today is going to be a busy day, I am tired, today is going to be hard, why am I getting up so early.?"

This bad attitude has me thinking about why I am doing what I am doing. My project for today is fun, easy and I am spending time with a great group of people. In my mind though, I have set it up as goals I need to accomplish. I must wake up at this time and then be here by then, and then do this, and that, and then that.

The whole experience has catapulted me back to my corporate days when I did really wanted to do much of anything I had goaled my self to do. Those goals weren't my own. I was at someone else s mercy. Every task was "goal this" and "plan that" and there was so much time spent on achieving the goal, I missed the experience. Plus, where were my wants and dreams?

Luckily, I do have one thing going for me... awareness.I see what I am creating this morning. So, I began immediately shifting my goals and planning for today into dreaming about what the day will bring. Dreaming of how fun today will be, how many new people I will meet, how easy the flow of the day will go, and how I won't miss a moment of experience.
This shift automatically put me in a great frame of mind, as I took back control of my mood and experience, or the illusion of my experience anyway. Result? Joy and happiness once again.

Goals are important in life to help plan and execute tasks. However, when you lose sight of the experience because you are caught in the "tasks" try rethinking or dreaming up how you want your life to be. How beautiful, sweet, and easy. How fun exciting, and adventurous. As adults we have forgotten to do one thing....DREAM! Kids still have the market on that. Learn from them, they see endless possibilities with no limits and they are present in every moment of their experiences.

You can't see the forest for the trees...sound familiar? Take a look at your big picture today. What will your day looks like? Dream big! And most importantly, stay conscious in every moment, so you don't miss anything.

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Selfless Service

2009-09-28T06:14:00.003-04:00

In speaking with one of my relatives the other day, the subject of how I am spending some of my time came up. I was explaining that I have a few upcoming events that I am donating my time to the community or a particular organization.
The only reason we were even discussing these events was that there was a conflict with a "perceived" important event on this person's part. As, I was explaining how I was donating my time this person said, "Wow, I am glad you can afford to do all these things and not get paid."

I almost swallowed my tongue in shock. This was a person whom I thought had some social consciousness and was willing to lend a hand when asked. I remember in the past how she devoted time to her church, stayed late at work to help others, and was basically there when people needed her, whether they asked or not. Then the light bulb in my head went on.

In those instances of her giving service to the community, there was always someone watching saying, "oh isn't she great, what a worker, she's so devoted". She was always waiting for the applause to hear how well she was doing and how caring she was. In reality, many of these "selfless acts" detracted from time she should have been spending with her family. I can remember her children saying, Mon doesn't have to do these things, but she always wants to "look good". Is that a lesson to teach your children?

Are you in right relationship with the service you provide to people. Are you doing it for a pat on the back or simply for the feeling of doing good. Either way... service is being provided. What happens if you look at it with no expectation of even a "thank you"? Does that change your willingness to participate?

Find a cause or group you believe in and donate even a small amount of time. Perhaps your family can join you. Reap the rewards of being of selfless service to others. You won't regret it. The universe will reward your selflessness with feelings of accomplishment beyond the accolades anyone could give you.

Take care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Expansion or Contraction?

2009-09-25T10:25:00.002-04:00

In the past few days, pondering life and love, I have noticed how my life seems to be constantly expanding in an outward direction. This was particularly clear yesterday.
In my travels, leading up to last night's Soul Dance, I encountered many opportunities to reach out and assist the community. Situations that allow me to use my skills and aid others. Some were strictly philanthropic others new, opportunities to teach.
Simultaneously, I had multiple re connections with people from my past, some who floated into my "opportunity for service" arena. I realized I had put many people on the back shelf not feeling I had time or energy to engage them. However, now as I expand, I suddenly have a knowing that there is enough room for everyone. I began immediately trying to fit more people back into my circle and I started contacting people I hadn't spoken to in weeks, months, and years.

Are you expanding or contracting in your life? Do you find yourself pushing people away, not feeling you have room or space for them. Are you ignoring opportunities for personal and professional expansion? There is enough room for everyone and everything. You just need to allow.

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Have a great weekend.
Best,
Thomas

Success and not Success

2009-09-24T09:53:00.002-04:00

Tonight is the night of our first Soul Dance is Syracuse. I must admit that I am extremely excited and at the same time questioning exactly how many people are actually attending. Our invitations were very loose through email and facebook and many of our"maybes" haven't confirmed.

This has me thinking this morning, we could have 5 people or 150? I began to ponder what either of those numbers meant. Is a big number a success and small a failu...., well not a success. What is success? What would happen to mean our event is successful? Then BAM, epiphany...I realized that we could have 5 people who have an amazing transformation tonight, or even one, or even just me. The joy has been in the journey of the preparation, collaberation, and manifestation. Also, other opportunities have already come and this event hasn't even started.

Think about success for yourself. Who measures success? What is it? Is it not just leaving things better than we found them or making improvements over past beliefs and situations. Maybe, it is just finding pure joy in the moment, which is sure to happen tonight.

I hope to see you tonight, if your life allows, It will be unforgettable.

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Gusto

2009-09-23T09:17:00.002-04:00

As I woke this morning, I began realizing that this week has had a particularly large amount of activities which I have needed to participate. Since I am fortunate enough to make my own schedule, I would say I have not had such a busy week in quite a long time. recently, I have chosen to take things slow, to absorb what is going on around me, to inhabit my life completely.

This week has been about where and what time and how many, and how much. This pace made me realize in my former life( sales exec), not too long ago, I spent my time just trying to get through things, not enjoy the process. At times only seeking the end of the project or task and brushing over the journey. Day after day, work sleep work sleep work sleep. Can you say ROBOT>>>?

Until one day, I gave myself permission to bring my voice into my life. It allowed me to re inhabit my body, my soul, and my heart. I started speaking my truth and.... My life was forever transformed. I went from just getting through to drinking in every experience.

Are you living life with gusto, or just moving to the next task?

"And in the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."
Abraham Lincoln

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Fall Equinox

2009-09-22T10:02:00.002-04:00

Today is the Fall equinox and a great time for aspirations. The change of season can bring about a powerful change within the self. This is a great exercise to do at some point today by yourself or with loved ones.
Take a few moments and examine your life. Appreciate all the things you have and the things that you desire. Act as if your desires are already yours. Whether it's a new job, house, or any situation.
Remember, it's not your job to determine how these things will manifest, but to say"yes" and focus on the end result.
Today is an especially powerful day to create. Dream your dreams today and speak them out loud.

You see things; and you say, "Why?" But I dream things that never were; and I say, "Why not?"
George Bernard Shaw

Be good to yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Thoughts Become Things

2009-09-21T09:06:00.002-04:00

I have just started listening to this audio book, "infinite possibilities" by Mike Dooley.
The words really rings true about the way I feel about life and the people around me. The concept in short, is that our thoughts create the world around us. The circumstances, people, health, and wealth are all manifestations of what we think. I have heard this many times before, but as I listened and was encouraged to look for examples in my life I realized, it's really true. We do create our reality. Everything going on around us our mind has drawn like a magnet.
The whole philosophy, ties into the law of attraction theories, or is at least very similar... So, our infinite possibilities are only limited by our minds.
Our job is not to see how our dreams will come true, just to ask for them....and have faith that they will.

"Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase. " (Martin Luther King Jr.)

Dare to dream today, what do you want? without limit...go for it, no matter how big it is.

Take Care of yourselves and each other.
Best,
Thomas

Scarcity

2009-09-18T10:07:00.002-04:00

Why is it easier for us to focus on what we don't have rather than what we do have?
For example when we look at the bank statement and there isn't much in there and that feeling comes of" Oh my God, I am going to starve to death".

Interestingly enough, when there is quite a bit of money, do we look and say, "Wow, thank you for my abundance and peace of mind. It's is only in times of scarcity that we pray for help and there is a huge energy charge related to this.... wanting and despair.

Practice being grateful and abundant this weekend. Even if you only have five dollars to your name. Know that the universe will provide you with exactly what you need and that you are in the perfect place right now. You are exactly where you are meant to be. Most of your financial woes are based upon a false belief system anyway.

You are whole and perfect, just as you are, no matter how much cash is at hand...

Have a great weekend.
Be good to yourselves and each other,
Thomas

My Hero

2009-09-17T06:42:00.002-04:00

Yesterday I received an email from one of my mentors that the program she is teaching and directing in bodywork is being "put on hold" for 2010. The program was a main part of my bodywork education.... my reaction...stunned.
Emotions running high, I wasn't sure what I should "do". I have always felt this bodywork program was a huge portion of my overall wellness training experience, both technically and spiritually. I have spoken out passionately in support of the school and at times "made it my cause".
So I thought, "Now what?" "Who do I fight, what do I do, who gets a nasty letter?" Then I reread my teacher's email. The words of a woman whose professional livelihood is being put "on hold". IT changed my whole point of view.

Here is an excerpt...and I quote,

"...So, I am in the free fall period myself considering what may be next. and choosing not to miss the ride.

Despite sadness at the shift of focus here for (program) and our beloved school I am in immense trust and gratitude ( except when I'm not :) )

Open to possibilities and recognizing I have always been guided with amazing grace in my life so to doubt at this point would be a true tragedy!"

I read that 3 times and thought, "My Hero". She sees the divine plan in everything and doesn't want to miss the experience. And perhaps at times wavering, she knows her life is guided and that she is always in the right place at the right time. She is lead by true grace and is true grace at the same time.
Arti Ross Kelso is my hero...

Who is your hero? Do you have someone(s) who inspire you? Share your feelings with them today. I am sure they would love to know the influence they have on your life. Don't be shy...

Be good to yourselves and each other,
Thomas

Struggle and Gratitude

2009-09-16T07:34:00.003-04:00

Spoke with a friend yesterday who was not in the best mind states. She spent a great deal of the time speaking about how the world had done her wrong. How she didn't get the things in life she should have had to get started. How she has never had enough money or a nice place, or a nice life.

Her expectation was that she should have been left an inheritance by family, she should have been cared for by a man, she should have.....

At one point, I actually laughed during the conversation, knowing the she makes about $60,000 a year, has a nice apartment, new car, and enjoys a very relaxed life without much heavy responsibility.

Her apparent struggle in life was completely real to her. She only sees lack, loss, and neglect. I asked her, "What are you grateful for?", "What has come easy for you?". She could not name one thing.
At the end of the conversation, I was quite drained, but also looked at my own life to see the stories I was telling myself. Had I been cheated out of life? Where had life dealt me the short end?
I was suddenly filled with so much thankfulness and appreciation for my accomplishments. I praised my friend for teaching me the lesson that life's struggles are sometimes in our minds and gratitude is some times the best way to move through these feelings of lack, scarcity, and fear.

What are you happy and grateful for today? What are you accomplishments?

Be good to yourselves and each other,
Thomas

Silence

2009-09-15T10:15:00.002-04:00

A friend of mine posted the phase "Silence is Golden" today and it has inspired me.
Yesterday morning I was working on some personal development work of mine. The focus of the work was on hearing/listening. Actually, developing the sense of hearing.
The exercise was to blindfold myself and listen to particular sounds, see what I could hear, and analyze my feelings about them.
After about 20 minutes, I was shocked to realize how many things I don't hear everyday. There is a ton of sound out there and I am missing it. Amazingly enough, I could hear everything. The hum of the computer, the wind chimes outside, cars, trucks, clocks ticking, birds.
Try and focus on your sense of hearing today..you will be surprised what you hear. It is a great game for kids too. It will also help you listen.

Be good to yourselves and each other,
Thomas

Mercury

2009-09-14T09:57:00.002-04:00

What is it with all this Mercury retrograde business? Slowing down progress and making people feel annoyed. Horoscopes say things like, "Watch your investments" or "You will lose something".
I think it is interesting to see how much of the astrological effects actually are at work when we don't know anything about them. The knowing almost intensifies the worrying. Which sends out energy to the universe saying..."oh no, I am going to lose something....then we do"

Under certain circumstances, perhaps ignorance is bliss. Maybe we would just be late for an appointment or small things would happen, or we would just feel a bit frustrated.

How much does your horoscope effect you? What is it today? Is it influencing how things go?
Check it out and see.

Take care of yourselves and each other,
Thomas

Changes

2009-09-11T11:06:00.002-04:00

Today being September 11 what do you find yourself doing? Is this a day of rememberance, a day of sorrow, or just another day? What do you feel you "need" to do today? Do you "need" to do anything? Are you acting out of guilt, compassion, or pride?
These are just a few questions to ask yourself. When indeed perhaps you should, "Be the change you wish to see in the world"(Gandhi). What was your lesson from Sept. 11 2001. How about teaching love today, not fear. Teaching hope, not suffering. Teaching joy, not sorrow.
The more we tune into the negatives of the past, the more they haunt us. Be free of the ties that bind and show only love today, only joy, only peace.

Take Care of Yourself and each other!
Thomas

Rebuilding

2009-09-10T08:32:00.002-04:00

For the past 6 years I have known that my front porch needed to be painted. The banisters and pillars have been chipped... the floor is peeling. The trim on the door and windows is a hideous shade of brown. In fact, it makes the front windows look like bars on the windows.
It wasn't until I started seeing clients in my home that I realized my porch looks like the entrance to the Bates Motel.
After ignoring my porch for all these years I came to realize, once I started to clean it up, that there was some water damage, so I actually have to replace quite a bit of the wood. A job I actually enjoy. However, I don't care to spend the money right now.
In the end as my porch gets nicer, I realize that this is my face to the public. This is what clients see about the type of person I am when they walk to the door. Not in an ego way, but it says, "hi", welcome, this is a safe and comfortable place...You will find it relaxing here.
So the metaphor for life...if you ignore a problem it just gets worse...it rots...until removed, dealt with, or painted. Clean and neaten your space today for your own peace of mind..it's good feng shui.

Love yourself and everyone today!
Best,
Thomas

The Underdog

2009-09-09T15:46:00.002-04:00

In the past couple of days I have become completely infatuated with Whitney Houston's comeback Album. This must be a throwback to the 80's when I saw her in concert. Interestingly enough, in reading the articles, album reviews, and Good Morning America Performance, I was shocked to see how cruel people are being to her?
Why do we kick the underdog when they are down? Is it truly in our nature to see other people struggle...and fail? I think not.
I am very proud of this woman, though I don't know her and have no attachments to her whatsoever, for following her passions and have the courage to use her voice and be heard.
That in itself is a great accomplishment.
Do you know an underdog? Find one, and become their biggest fan...The rewards are great...

Love yourselves and each other today!
Thomas

New Beginnings

2009-09-08T08:46:00.002-04:00

The first day of school in most places marks an exciting time for kids and their parents. Kids have a chance to see their friends they may have missed all summer. They are excited as everything is new and the real work hasn't begun.
Parents have an opportunity for a bit more space to focus on personal needs and wants. Some missing their children as it may be their first days of school.
I encourage everyone today to take a few moments and reflect upon this change. Are you feeling guilty because you have some free time now? Are things a bit easier? See how these feelings land with you today...and of course spend time talking with your kids when you get home tonight....Turn off the TV...this is a great evening.

Best,
Thomas

To Labor or not to Labor

2009-09-04T09:28:00.002-04:00

As a tribute to Labor Day, I am just recalling a conversation the other day with a close friend. She was lamenting because she and her roommate have had to spend a great deal of time cleaning up their apartment. I empathized because I can never seem to get motivated myself.
Unfortunately as long as I have known her, her apartment has never been clean. I guess the most important thing to remember is that it doesn't have to happen overnight, as long as it happens.
There is a lot of subconscious stress on the psyche when we are surrounded by clutter and "tasks" that need to be performed.
My sister does a load of laundry a day to keep up and not be over run by dirty clothes laying around. I have decided to clean one room a day and write a list of repairs or ideas I have for each room. This makes the remodeling and cleaning of my house less ominous and actually a bit more fun.
So this weekend? To labor or not....Enjoy your family and friends!!! If they want to help clean go for it...if not, go to the beach. Tuesday everything will be waiting for you when you get back.

Have a safe and happy holiday weekend,
Best,
Thomas

Trust Your Instincts

2009-09-03T09:32:00.002-04:00

Today is the day when everything comes together, but there is still a decision to be made. Trust yourself that you know what to do. You already have the answer(s) you need and know in your heart the right way to act upon the situation.
You may have been down this road before, but this time you really know what direction to go in.

Good Luck on today's path...
Best,
Thomas

Regret

2009-09-02T09:57:00.002-04:00

It is said that the first sign of age is when regret appears in our lives. Two friends of mine, who have lived together for many years exemplify this principle.
They have held the belief that they were never provided for by their parents, like so many of their friends. They were never "set up" in the world or left an inheritance or legacy.
Interesting enough, the pair have lived a very comfortable life, not really denying themselves any of life's pleasure. They have a nice place to live, comfortable surroundings and friends who are interested in their well being.
Unfortunately, from an early age they had regret, which has been like a chain around their necks. It has caused them to prematurely age, lose mobility, and enter a stage of life that should be well beyond their current years.
Think of one thing you regret today. Why? What would have taken place if you had gotten what you wanted or thought necessary? Would you be were you are today? Do you appreciate the things you do have?
Do you understand you are exactly were you need to be right now, at this very moment?
Spread the Peace,
Thomas

Waiting for the Other Shoe

2009-09-01T09:24:00.002-04:00

I recently heard about a woman who is constantly waiting for things to go wrong in her life. She said that way she lays down to sleep at night these thoughts begin. Are my kids OK, are my body discomforts serious, am I going to die? When is the other shoe going to drop?

Interesting enough, looking from the outside this woman has an amazing life. She has two beautiful children, who established themselves young in life, a house that is paid for, and no serious debt. She and her husband constantly tell their children that life is tough and hard work, but in reality they are living and extremely blessed and comfortable existence...except in the mind.

The woman's life is going so well, she doesn't know what to worry about. She is waiting for things to go wrong. This constant low level stress is causing several health issues. These thoughts are manifesting in her own body.

What if we change the expression from "waiting for the other shoe to drop" to "I am getting a new pair of shoes", a new lease on life, a new beginning. No matter how big or small that is. Our mind receives a positive message and manifests into the outside world.

Be kind to yourself today and those around you!

Experience

2009-08-31T08:51:00.002-04:00

Recently, I was listening to a religious conversation between two friends. Both very passionate about their views of organized religion and it's fundamentalism.
It started me thinking about how little people actually experience true spirituality and just believe what they hear from their religious order and spiritual leaders.
What would happen if you made an attempt today to have some type of spiritual connection. Where would you begin, who would you look to?
Go inside today, this consciousness comes from within...what will you find. It isn't in a book or on TV...it is within you. You just have to remember your great capacity for love and compassion. If you have already found this, SHARE

Giving Gifts

2009-08-28T09:22:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I took a friend horseback riding as a birthday present. He had never been on a horse and I thought it would be a great new adventure. In the past I had always tried to make his birthday celebrations huge and impressive, more so that he would have a huge amount of fun or be really happy by the large ticket item or great trip we were taking.
Interesting, just taking an hour trail ride, going to lunch, and hanging out had the exact same effect as traveling the world. In fact, more memorable in a lot of ways.
I realized that the giving is really of one's self and the size of the gift is irrelevant. He wasn't looking for a huge present, I was projecting that onto him.
Give of yourself today, that is the greatest gift. See how people respond and what rewards come from it.
Happy Trails!

Getting in Touch- Crying

2009-08-27T07:51:00.003-04:00

A friend was telling me this morning that she can no longer express herself by crying. She can laugh and get angry, nervous, or panicked, but no tears come. If she ever does cry...it's when there is a sad movie on TV and she is all alone. I asked her why she felt this was? She immediately changed the subject and moved on.
Why are we afraid to show our emotions and speak our truth. Why do we hide ourselves from our children, spouse, family, and friends. Angry and aggression is easily shown, but fear and sadness..no way. We have been trained as a society that the more fragile emotions are signs of weakness and are not to be shared.
Energetically speaking, fear and sadness are some of the most important emotions to address. They are the most "charged" and left unattended can start to manifest in the body. Rub your belly, that's usually where they are sitting.
I have a project for you today....Cry...tears of sadness, joy, pain, fear...Open the flood gates and let 'em flow. Cry for 10 minutes today...notice how your feel after wards and where you feel it in your body during the process. Great breakthroughs happen during times of emotional release.

Self Review

2009-08-26T07:43:00.001-04:00

Yesterday was about moving through difficult situations, today is about taking time to review those difficulties and challenges. Examine the who, what, why, and where they occurred. Take this chance to heal any old wounds and make a menns with anyone you have lost along the way. Forgiveness is the strategy for today, starting with yourself.

Don't Get Caught in the Muck

2009-08-25T09:19:00.000-04:00

Have you ever felt that no matter how hard you try you can't seem to get ahead? Well today is that day...You are moving through the final phase of challenge, most of your difficulties are behind you. Make your final push...keep going. Today is the day you get unstuck. Discuss and gain support from family and friends, especially if they are the cause. Speak you truth today.

Only the Beginning

2009-08-24T20:20:00.000-04:00

Here is th first posting for my online blog. I am really looking forward to sharing insight, fun, and maybe even a few new recipes with everyone,,,you know how much I love to eat...enjoy and reply!!!