To begin the sense of feeling one attains when eyes meet for the first time. The intake of breath, the prickle on the back of the neck, the cold air as it runs across the hair on your arms. This sense is like the anticipation of the first kiss, of the tenderness a mother feels for her child as she nurses for the first time. This sense is one a husband feels for his wife as she glides down the isle on their wedding day. It is a doorway opening to a distant path beyond.
What lies beyond this doorway? What steps must be taken to reach the goals at the end? Where will it take me? Questions asked are questions answered. Follow this path and only you will know the truths that are yours at the end. Follow this path and only you will experience the passions along your way. Follow this path and what will be, will be for you in the end. It is a destiny to follow. A thread in the tapestry of your life. Undulating with mixed ideas, decisions and fears.
You control this thread. The only part not under your control is its length. This is decided at inception. This and ONLY this is unchangeable. For once your length is set it cannot change, but all else is transmutable. Once on this path your eyes must be aware of obstacles and opportunities. Unsightly is the most opportune instances that will arise if you narrow your vision to only that which is ahead of you. Watch in silence. Wait with compassion. Visualize in peace. Know with confidence and decide with ability. These attributes will aide you on your path and guide you in times of blindness and turmoil.
Close your eyes and walk with the assurance of your path. Know without knowing. Follow without stepping. Guide without control.
The basics of true enlightenment will find you when you need them most. Recognizing them will be your responsibility. Having the strength, fortitude and abilities to see where not seen is the depth and age of your soul. Understanding achieved through this will be peace of mind for the turmoil of everyday tasks.
Walking along a path brings great thought. What, why, where, how? These are all thoughts to ponder. What am I doing? What caused me to choose this path? What am I thinking? What are the obstacles I will face?
Why am I doing this? Why was I chosen for this? Why am I here? Why do I subject myself to this? Why?
Where am I going? Where will I end up? Where does this lead? Where is this path?
How did I get here? How am I going to make it? How will I know? How do I start? How do I finish?
All these questions and more come to mind while walking a path to enlightenment. To answer these questions you must remember a very basic rule... All questions asked of yourself can be answered by yourself.
Why? Well... you tell me...
Friday, February 27, 2009
Allegra's journey begins
Sitting by a window in a room, in a stone castle, far away from civilization, Allegra sat and pondered her predicament. What she had been taught now comes to light. Through all this time her disciplines have brought her to this one moment. This one point in time when Allegra knew she would discover her inner fears, her inner desires, everything she was. Everything she had trained for all her life was waiting for her in this one moment. Was she ready for this?
Closing her eyes, Allegra began to clear her mind. Before she lost all her thoughts, Allegra wondered, would he notice she was there? Would he sense her mind entering his? Would he understand the connection? What if he rejected her? So many questions raced through Allegra’s mind. For a moment there was a confusion of thoughts racing around her mind, calling her to not do this. All the thoughts that raced in she began to shut out one by one, until all that was left was a dark dense emptiness. Then Allegra focused all her energy inward towards a doorway in the distance down a long dark hallway. This was her place of sanctuary, where she could go and no one could touch her. Once through the door, Allegra was safe from any harm or prying thoughts. It was her sanctuary from the women of the order, from the ancients, from the universe. The wall she had constructed around this place was impenetrable. As Allegra moved through the door and it shut behind her, a new sense entered her mind. One of knowledge. One of peace through that knowledge. She was on the right path. This was to be her doorway to what she had prepared for all her life.
Allegra turned and walked back out the door, down the hallway and re-entered her consciousness. She opened her eyes refreshed and ready for her next journey. All concerns gone, all thoughts on the task ahead of her.
Slowly and deliberately she began preparing. Unrolling her fur in the center of the room, Allegra knelt and carefully placed it exactly on the four corners marked as North, South, East and West. Each side had to touch exactly so. Overhead a skylight cast a subtle glow over the room. This was her entrance window. It allowed her to escape her earthly bonds and float towards the heavens free. It anchored her life strand to earth and guided her home when the time was right. It was her hold on this earth, to her life. Without it she could become lost and die, her soul wandering forever among the skies, alone and without form.
Next Allegra stood lit four candles and placed them on each of the corners of her fur. These would aid her in her quest. They would enlighten her and give her strength to follow through. Each candle held the power of direction. The directions together created a whole. With out all four elements Allegra’s ceremony was incomplete and would fail. If one blew out she would veer off course and again could be lost forever.
Allegra had been meticulously taught this ceremony by her grandmother. Every step taken one at a time and memorized. Alone and with out guidance from her grandmother, Allegra now understood the depth which being so precise meant. If she erred in the slightest she might be catapulted to another realm and not find her way home.
Standing Allegra withdrew and stripped off her clothes. She anointed her body with perfumed oils mixed to enhance her trance. She pulled her hair into a twist and walked into the circle. With one final glance out the window across the room, Allegra sank to her knees, closed her eyes and raised her arms to the sky, palms outstretched upward...
Allegra mind began to close off the outside world and enter a state of calm. Blackness enveloped her mind. A nothingness that began her path. She knew this feeling well and navigated through it with ease. Allegra sang her songs and chanted to the four corners. Turning to each as she gave thanks and prayers. She could feel the heat of the candles against her naked body. As Allegra chanted, she felt her body falling back into an opalescent glow. It felt as though she was lying down now, yet she was still on her knees.
She entered the glow, felt it encircle her body. She became the glow. It entered into her mind and suddenly she could see outside her room. Allegra was floating over her kneeling body. Watching herself chant and move rhythmically to the sound of the chant. She looked at her body and it was transparent. A haze in the light cast from the moon through the window of her room. Allegra turned her gaze away and felt her body move through the window in the ceiling. A tiny silver string emanated from her foot. This was her life line to earth. Allegra had never seen this before. She was amazed by its beauty. So tiny and yet so powerful. She looked back and watched her body recede in the distance as she traveled farther up into the night sky. She soared above the world at incredible speeds.
Looking down, Allegra could sense the ancients following her, watching her progress. Knowing her quest and approving her approach into their realm. She knew she was entering an area of unknown for her. This was her first journey alone. She knew the beginning to this quest would lead to certain ends. Was she prepared for this? Questions entered her mind. The emptiness began to fill with concern.
Suddenly she felt her body being pulled downwards. Back towards the window in the ceiling. Back to her physical body. Flailing against the downward pull, she knew she wasn’t concentrating and focused her mind again on her task. Once again her mind became blank and released again to float free Allegra sped upwards.
What beauty she gazed upon. Far above the world in another realm Allegra took note of how free she felt. How alive she was. For a time Allegra forgot why she entered this dream state. From the far recesses of her mind Allegra heard her grandmother’s voice,” Allegra my darling, you must continue on your quest. Do not be detained by this realm. It will make you forget. Remember your disciplines. Remember the reason you came here. Remember what it is you are searching for.” Allegra could hear her grandmother's voice very clearly now. Her voice was quite persistent in her mind. She had allowed herself to wander as she had been warned not to do. “If you wander in this realm, it will make you forget and you can become lost”
Her grandmother’s words came again and were a focus point for Allegra to return to her task at hand. Her quest for another consciousness. The one that invaded her dreams. The one she knew she had to find from the moment she became aware. Her quest for this being who was her other half. Where was this person? This being of like mind.
In the distance a faint glow began to emanate from the land far below. Without a thought Allegra focused on this spot and was drawn there. Suddenly and without warning she felt a presence. He was there, Allegra could feel him entering her mind, moving though her body, exploring her, and completely enveloping her. She struggled, and tried to push him out of her mind. He seemed as curious about her as she was about him. Slowly, calming herself, Allegra allowed him to enter her mind. She knew he was the one.
A beginning...more will follow
Closing her eyes, Allegra began to clear her mind. Before she lost all her thoughts, Allegra wondered, would he notice she was there? Would he sense her mind entering his? Would he understand the connection? What if he rejected her? So many questions raced through Allegra’s mind. For a moment there was a confusion of thoughts racing around her mind, calling her to not do this. All the thoughts that raced in she began to shut out one by one, until all that was left was a dark dense emptiness. Then Allegra focused all her energy inward towards a doorway in the distance down a long dark hallway. This was her place of sanctuary, where she could go and no one could touch her. Once through the door, Allegra was safe from any harm or prying thoughts. It was her sanctuary from the women of the order, from the ancients, from the universe. The wall she had constructed around this place was impenetrable. As Allegra moved through the door and it shut behind her, a new sense entered her mind. One of knowledge. One of peace through that knowledge. She was on the right path. This was to be her doorway to what she had prepared for all her life.
Allegra turned and walked back out the door, down the hallway and re-entered her consciousness. She opened her eyes refreshed and ready for her next journey. All concerns gone, all thoughts on the task ahead of her.
Slowly and deliberately she began preparing. Unrolling her fur in the center of the room, Allegra knelt and carefully placed it exactly on the four corners marked as North, South, East and West. Each side had to touch exactly so. Overhead a skylight cast a subtle glow over the room. This was her entrance window. It allowed her to escape her earthly bonds and float towards the heavens free. It anchored her life strand to earth and guided her home when the time was right. It was her hold on this earth, to her life. Without it she could become lost and die, her soul wandering forever among the skies, alone and without form.
Next Allegra stood lit four candles and placed them on each of the corners of her fur. These would aid her in her quest. They would enlighten her and give her strength to follow through. Each candle held the power of direction. The directions together created a whole. With out all four elements Allegra’s ceremony was incomplete and would fail. If one blew out she would veer off course and again could be lost forever.
Allegra had been meticulously taught this ceremony by her grandmother. Every step taken one at a time and memorized. Alone and with out guidance from her grandmother, Allegra now understood the depth which being so precise meant. If she erred in the slightest she might be catapulted to another realm and not find her way home.
Standing Allegra withdrew and stripped off her clothes. She anointed her body with perfumed oils mixed to enhance her trance. She pulled her hair into a twist and walked into the circle. With one final glance out the window across the room, Allegra sank to her knees, closed her eyes and raised her arms to the sky, palms outstretched upward...
Allegra mind began to close off the outside world and enter a state of calm. Blackness enveloped her mind. A nothingness that began her path. She knew this feeling well and navigated through it with ease. Allegra sang her songs and chanted to the four corners. Turning to each as she gave thanks and prayers. She could feel the heat of the candles against her naked body. As Allegra chanted, she felt her body falling back into an opalescent glow. It felt as though she was lying down now, yet she was still on her knees.
She entered the glow, felt it encircle her body. She became the glow. It entered into her mind and suddenly she could see outside her room. Allegra was floating over her kneeling body. Watching herself chant and move rhythmically to the sound of the chant. She looked at her body and it was transparent. A haze in the light cast from the moon through the window of her room. Allegra turned her gaze away and felt her body move through the window in the ceiling. A tiny silver string emanated from her foot. This was her life line to earth. Allegra had never seen this before. She was amazed by its beauty. So tiny and yet so powerful. She looked back and watched her body recede in the distance as she traveled farther up into the night sky. She soared above the world at incredible speeds.
Looking down, Allegra could sense the ancients following her, watching her progress. Knowing her quest and approving her approach into their realm. She knew she was entering an area of unknown for her. This was her first journey alone. She knew the beginning to this quest would lead to certain ends. Was she prepared for this? Questions entered her mind. The emptiness began to fill with concern.
Suddenly she felt her body being pulled downwards. Back towards the window in the ceiling. Back to her physical body. Flailing against the downward pull, she knew she wasn’t concentrating and focused her mind again on her task. Once again her mind became blank and released again to float free Allegra sped upwards.
What beauty she gazed upon. Far above the world in another realm Allegra took note of how free she felt. How alive she was. For a time Allegra forgot why she entered this dream state. From the far recesses of her mind Allegra heard her grandmother’s voice,” Allegra my darling, you must continue on your quest. Do not be detained by this realm. It will make you forget. Remember your disciplines. Remember the reason you came here. Remember what it is you are searching for.” Allegra could hear her grandmother's voice very clearly now. Her voice was quite persistent in her mind. She had allowed herself to wander as she had been warned not to do. “If you wander in this realm, it will make you forget and you can become lost”
Her grandmother’s words came again and were a focus point for Allegra to return to her task at hand. Her quest for another consciousness. The one that invaded her dreams. The one she knew she had to find from the moment she became aware. Her quest for this being who was her other half. Where was this person? This being of like mind.
In the distance a faint glow began to emanate from the land far below. Without a thought Allegra focused on this spot and was drawn there. Suddenly and without warning she felt a presence. He was there, Allegra could feel him entering her mind, moving though her body, exploring her, and completely enveloping her. She struggled, and tried to push him out of her mind. He seemed as curious about her as she was about him. Slowly, calming herself, Allegra allowed him to enter her mind. She knew he was the one.
A beginning...more will follow
Thursday, February 12, 2009
A Dad's Story
My sister sent this to me and I cried. It made me realize how lucky I am to have what I have in my life. Love, friendship and happiness. The 3 most important things to me.
Maybe this will brighten your day a bit.
On July 22nd I was enroute to Washington, DC , on a business trip. It was all so very ordinary, until we landed in Denver for a plane change. As I collected my belongings from the overhead bin, an announcement was made for Mr. Lloyd Glenn to see the United Customer Service Representative immediately. I thought nothing of it until I reached the door to leave the plane and I heard a gentleman asking every male if he were Mr. Glenn At this point I knew something was wrong and my heart sunk.
When I got off the plane a solemn-faced young man came toward me and said, "Mr. Glenn, there is an emergency at your home. I do not know what the emergency is, or who is involved, but I will take you to the phone so you can call the hospital." My heart was now pounding, but the will to be calm took over. Woodenly, I followed this stranger to the distant telephone where I called the number he gave me for the Mission Hospital. My call was put through to the trauma center where I learned that my three-year-old son had been trapped underneath the automatic garage door for several minutes, and that when my wife had found him he was dead.. CPR had been performed by a neighbor, who is a doctor, and the paramedics had continued the treatment as Brian was transported to the hospital.
By the time of my call, Brian was revived and they believed he would live, but they did not know how much damage had been done to his brain, nor to his heart. They explained that the door had completely closed on his little sternum right over his heart. He had been severely crushed. After speaking with the medical staff, my wife sounded worried but not hysterical, and I took comfort in her calmness.
The return flight seemed to last forever, but finally I arrived at the hospital six hours after the garage door had come down. When I walked into the intensive care unit, nothing could have prepared me to see my little son laying so still on a great big bed with tubes and monitors everywhere. He was on a respirator. I glanced at my wife who stood and tried to give me a reassuring smile. It all seemed like a terrible dream. I was filled-in with the details and given a guarded prognosis. Brian was going to live, and the preliminary tests indicated that his heart was OK, two miracles in and of themselves. But only time would tell if his brain received any damage.
Throughout the seemingly endless hours, my wife was calm. She felt that Brian would eventually be all right. I hung on to her words and faith like a lifeline. All that night and the next day Brian remained unconscious. It seemed like forever since I had left for my business trip the day before.
Finally at two o'clock that afternoon, our son regained consciousness and sat up uttering the most beautiful words I have ever heard spoken. He said, "Daddy hold me" and he reached for me with his little arms.
[TEAR BREAK...smile]
By the next day he was pronounced as having no neurological or physical deficits, and the story of his miraculous survival spread throughout the hospital. You cannot imagine, we took Brian home, we felt a unique reverence for the life and love of our Heavenly Father that comes to those who brush death so closely.
In the days that followed there was a special spirit about our home. Our two older children were much closer to their little brother My wife and I were much closer to each other, and all of us were very close as a whole family. Life took on a less stressful pace. Perspective seemed to be more focused, and balance much easier to gain and maintain. We felt deeply blessed. Our gratitude was truly profound.
The story is not over (smile)!
Almost a month later to the day of the accident, Brian awoke from his afternoon nap and said, "Sit down Mommy. I have something to tell you." At this time in his life, Brian usually spoke in small phrases, so to say a large sentence surprised my wife. She sat down with him on his bed, and he began his sacred and remarkable story.
"Do you remember when I got stuck under the garage door? Well, it was so heavy and it hurt really bad. I called to you, but you couldn't hear me. I started to cry, but then it hurt too bad. And then the 'birdies' came."
"The birdies?" my wife asked puzzled.
"Yes," he replied. "The birdies made a whooshing sound and flew into the garage They took care of me."
"They did?"
"Yes," he said. "One of the birdies came and got you. She came to tell you "I got stuck under the door." A sweet reverent feeling filled the room. The spirit was so strong and yet lighter than air. My wife realized that a three-year-old had no concept of death and spirits, so he was referring to the beings who came to him from beyond as "birdies" because they were up in the air like birds that fly. "What did the birdies look like?" she asked
Brian answered, "They were so beautiful. They were dressed in white, all white Some of them had green and white. But some of them had on just white."
"Did they say anything?"
"Yes," he answered. "They told me the baby would be all right."
"The baby?" my wife asked confused.
Brian answered. "The baby laying on the garage floor." He went on, "You came out and opened the garage door and ran to the baby. You told the baby to stay and not leave."
My wife nearly collapsed upon hearing this, for she had indeed gone and knelt beside Brian's body and seeing his crushed chest whispered, "Don't leave us Brian, please stay if you can." As she listened to Brian telling her the words she had spoken, she realized that the spirit had left His body and was looking down from above on this little lifeless form. "Then what happened?" she asked.
"We went on a trip," he said, "far, far away." He grew agitated trying to say the things he didn't seem to have the words for. My wife tried to calm and comfort him, and let him know it would be okay. He struggled with wanting to tell something that obviously was very important to him, but finding the words was difficult.
"We flew so fast up in the air. They're so pretty Mommy," he added.
"And there are lots and lots of birdies." My wife was stunned. Into her mind the sweet comforting spirit enveloped her more soundly, but with an urgency she had never before known. Brian went on to tell her that the "birdies" had told him that he had to come back and tell everyone about the "birdies." He said they brought him back to the house and that a big fire truck, and an ambulance were there. A man was bringing the baby out on a white bed and he tried to tell the man that the baby would be okay. The story went on for an hour.
He taught us that "birdies" were always with us, but we don't see them because we look with our eyes and we don't hear them because we listen with our ears. But they are always there, you can only see them in here (he put his hand over his heart). They whisper the things to help us to do what is right because they love us so much. Brian continued, stating, "I have a plan, Mommy. You have a plan. Daddy has a plan. Everyone has a plan. We must all live our plan and keep our promises. The birdies help us to do that cause they love us so much."
In the weeks that followed, he often came to us and told all, or part of it, again and again. Always the story remained the same. The details were never changed or out of order. A few times he added further bits of information and clarified the message he had already delivered. It never ceased to amaze us how he could tell such detail and speak beyond his ability when he talked about his birdies.
Everywhere he went, he told strangers about the "birdies." Surprisingly, no one ever looked at him strangely when he did this. Rather, they always got a softened look on their face and smiled. Needless to say, we have not been the same ever since that day, and I pray we never will be.
You have just been sent an Angel to watch over you Some people come into our lives and quickly go...Some people become friends and stay a while...leaving beautiful footprints on our hearts .. and we are never quite the same because we have made a good friend!!
Yesterday is history. Tomorrow a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present! Live and savor every moment...this is not a dress rehearsal! THIS IS A SPECIAL GUARDIAN ANGEL...
Maybe this will brighten your day a bit.
On July 22nd I was enroute to Washington, DC , on a business trip. It was all so very ordinary, until we landed in Denver for a plane change. As I collected my belongings from the overhead bin, an announcement was made for Mr. Lloyd Glenn to see the United Customer Service Representative immediately. I thought nothing of it until I reached the door to leave the plane and I heard a gentleman asking every male if he were Mr. Glenn At this point I knew something was wrong and my heart sunk.
When I got off the plane a solemn-faced young man came toward me and said, "Mr. Glenn, there is an emergency at your home. I do not know what the emergency is, or who is involved, but I will take you to the phone so you can call the hospital." My heart was now pounding, but the will to be calm took over. Woodenly, I followed this stranger to the distant telephone where I called the number he gave me for the Mission Hospital. My call was put through to the trauma center where I learned that my three-year-old son had been trapped underneath the automatic garage door for several minutes, and that when my wife had found him he was dead.. CPR had been performed by a neighbor, who is a doctor, and the paramedics had continued the treatment as Brian was transported to the hospital.
By the time of my call, Brian was revived and they believed he would live, but they did not know how much damage had been done to his brain, nor to his heart. They explained that the door had completely closed on his little sternum right over his heart. He had been severely crushed. After speaking with the medical staff, my wife sounded worried but not hysterical, and I took comfort in her calmness.
The return flight seemed to last forever, but finally I arrived at the hospital six hours after the garage door had come down. When I walked into the intensive care unit, nothing could have prepared me to see my little son laying so still on a great big bed with tubes and monitors everywhere. He was on a respirator. I glanced at my wife who stood and tried to give me a reassuring smile. It all seemed like a terrible dream. I was filled-in with the details and given a guarded prognosis. Brian was going to live, and the preliminary tests indicated that his heart was OK, two miracles in and of themselves. But only time would tell if his brain received any damage.
Throughout the seemingly endless hours, my wife was calm. She felt that Brian would eventually be all right. I hung on to her words and faith like a lifeline. All that night and the next day Brian remained unconscious. It seemed like forever since I had left for my business trip the day before.
Finally at two o'clock that afternoon, our son regained consciousness and sat up uttering the most beautiful words I have ever heard spoken. He said, "Daddy hold me" and he reached for me with his little arms.
[TEAR BREAK...smile]
By the next day he was pronounced as having no neurological or physical deficits, and the story of his miraculous survival spread throughout the hospital. You cannot imagine, we took Brian home, we felt a unique reverence for the life and love of our Heavenly Father that comes to those who brush death so closely.
In the days that followed there was a special spirit about our home. Our two older children were much closer to their little brother My wife and I were much closer to each other, and all of us were very close as a whole family. Life took on a less stressful pace. Perspective seemed to be more focused, and balance much easier to gain and maintain. We felt deeply blessed. Our gratitude was truly profound.
The story is not over (smile)!
Almost a month later to the day of the accident, Brian awoke from his afternoon nap and said, "Sit down Mommy. I have something to tell you." At this time in his life, Brian usually spoke in small phrases, so to say a large sentence surprised my wife. She sat down with him on his bed, and he began his sacred and remarkable story.
"Do you remember when I got stuck under the garage door? Well, it was so heavy and it hurt really bad. I called to you, but you couldn't hear me. I started to cry, but then it hurt too bad. And then the 'birdies' came."
"The birdies?" my wife asked puzzled.
"Yes," he replied. "The birdies made a whooshing sound and flew into the garage They took care of me."
"They did?"
"Yes," he said. "One of the birdies came and got you. She came to tell you "I got stuck under the door." A sweet reverent feeling filled the room. The spirit was so strong and yet lighter than air. My wife realized that a three-year-old had no concept of death and spirits, so he was referring to the beings who came to him from beyond as "birdies" because they were up in the air like birds that fly. "What did the birdies look like?" she asked
Brian answered, "They were so beautiful. They were dressed in white, all white Some of them had green and white. But some of them had on just white."
"Did they say anything?"
"Yes," he answered. "They told me the baby would be all right."
"The baby?" my wife asked confused.
Brian answered. "The baby laying on the garage floor." He went on, "You came out and opened the garage door and ran to the baby. You told the baby to stay and not leave."
My wife nearly collapsed upon hearing this, for she had indeed gone and knelt beside Brian's body and seeing his crushed chest whispered, "Don't leave us Brian, please stay if you can." As she listened to Brian telling her the words she had spoken, she realized that the spirit had left His body and was looking down from above on this little lifeless form. "Then what happened?" she asked.
"We went on a trip," he said, "far, far away." He grew agitated trying to say the things he didn't seem to have the words for. My wife tried to calm and comfort him, and let him know it would be okay. He struggled with wanting to tell something that obviously was very important to him, but finding the words was difficult.
"We flew so fast up in the air. They're so pretty Mommy," he added.
"And there are lots and lots of birdies." My wife was stunned. Into her mind the sweet comforting spirit enveloped her more soundly, but with an urgency she had never before known. Brian went on to tell her that the "birdies" had told him that he had to come back and tell everyone about the "birdies." He said they brought him back to the house and that a big fire truck, and an ambulance were there. A man was bringing the baby out on a white bed and he tried to tell the man that the baby would be okay. The story went on for an hour.
He taught us that "birdies" were always with us, but we don't see them because we look with our eyes and we don't hear them because we listen with our ears. But they are always there, you can only see them in here (he put his hand over his heart). They whisper the things to help us to do what is right because they love us so much. Brian continued, stating, "I have a plan, Mommy. You have a plan. Daddy has a plan. Everyone has a plan. We must all live our plan and keep our promises. The birdies help us to do that cause they love us so much."
In the weeks that followed, he often came to us and told all, or part of it, again and again. Always the story remained the same. The details were never changed or out of order. A few times he added further bits of information and clarified the message he had already delivered. It never ceased to amaze us how he could tell such detail and speak beyond his ability when he talked about his birdies.
Everywhere he went, he told strangers about the "birdies." Surprisingly, no one ever looked at him strangely when he did this. Rather, they always got a softened look on their face and smiled. Needless to say, we have not been the same ever since that day, and I pray we never will be.
You have just been sent an Angel to watch over you Some people come into our lives and quickly go...Some people become friends and stay a while...leaving beautiful footprints on our hearts .. and we are never quite the same because we have made a good friend!!
Yesterday is history. Tomorrow a mystery. Today is a gift. That's why it's called the present! Live and savor every moment...this is not a dress rehearsal! THIS IS A SPECIAL GUARDIAN ANGEL...
I thought about it
I wrote this years ago (2003) and just discovered it...
I thought about it and there is only one way to realize the value of your dreams. To see them through no matter how painful that can be. Where you can take yourself is a matter of when and what you're willing to do. How far are you willing to step out of your comfort zone? Our comfort zones are relative to how we relate to life. How we adjust and conform.
Sometimes I wonder what it is I need to do to make it work. I know the answers are all there. Sometimes I think I'm too afraid to see the actual reality of my life. I have such a specific reason to be here and I need to hear the voices. I need to remember the answers. They're there, right in front of my eyes.
I'm a talented, amazingly beautiful woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind. Who's not afraid to see the truth for what it is and who needs to move into her true being. I see a girl crying because she so desperately wants to and doesn't know the path. I see a girl standing on a road that she has been on all her life. She just didn't know it. Where it leads only she will tell. The outcome is up to her if only she has the courage to take the steps.
Why at times do I feel the need to find such a huge comfort zone. I search for help, I yearn for the past, I anguish over lost feelings. I am so angry right now. I can't seem to let go. I'm afraid to move forward. I see things well and know where this will eventually take me. I regress to a place I don't want to be. I know I shouldn't be here. I know where I need to be and the path I need to take to get there. So why is it so hard right now? I think some is the chemicals running through my body. I need to remember to focus and relax. I need to be comfortable in my life before I can be with anyone. I need to be strong in who I am before I can feel the love of another.
Of what is it we are all looking for? Why do we search? Why do we yearn?
Paths
A path is an avenue we choose to follow for a period of time in our lives. Throughout that path there are a series of side paths we have opportunities to take. These are choices in destinies. Some are good and some aren't. It seems that when the fates chose our placement in the tapestry of living life they gave us the opportunity to choose where we wove our threads. It is inevitable that our thread is a certain length and there is no lengthening of it. It can however be cut short by the paths we choose to take. Why do we choose our paths? It seems we are influenced by others. They give us several opportunities to follow them or not. We do have the complete and unalienable right to choose whatever path we walk. It seems though that as a species we have this wonderful trait called passing the buck. We don't want to take responsibility for anything. We blame others for our plight in life. We get angry for what has happened to us. What's the problem here? We all make our own beds. We all make our own choices. We all decide for ourselves. No one has power over us unless we choose to give it to them.
I thought about it and there is only one way to realize the value of your dreams. To see them through no matter how painful that can be. Where you can take yourself is a matter of when and what you're willing to do. How far are you willing to step out of your comfort zone? Our comfort zones are relative to how we relate to life. How we adjust and conform.
Sometimes I wonder what it is I need to do to make it work. I know the answers are all there. Sometimes I think I'm too afraid to see the actual reality of my life. I have such a specific reason to be here and I need to hear the voices. I need to remember the answers. They're there, right in front of my eyes.
I'm a talented, amazingly beautiful woman who isn't afraid to speak her mind. Who's not afraid to see the truth for what it is and who needs to move into her true being. I see a girl crying because she so desperately wants to and doesn't know the path. I see a girl standing on a road that she has been on all her life. She just didn't know it. Where it leads only she will tell. The outcome is up to her if only she has the courage to take the steps.
Why at times do I feel the need to find such a huge comfort zone. I search for help, I yearn for the past, I anguish over lost feelings. I am so angry right now. I can't seem to let go. I'm afraid to move forward. I see things well and know where this will eventually take me. I regress to a place I don't want to be. I know I shouldn't be here. I know where I need to be and the path I need to take to get there. So why is it so hard right now? I think some is the chemicals running through my body. I need to remember to focus and relax. I need to be comfortable in my life before I can be with anyone. I need to be strong in who I am before I can feel the love of another.
Of what is it we are all looking for? Why do we search? Why do we yearn?
Paths
A path is an avenue we choose to follow for a period of time in our lives. Throughout that path there are a series of side paths we have opportunities to take. These are choices in destinies. Some are good and some aren't. It seems that when the fates chose our placement in the tapestry of living life they gave us the opportunity to choose where we wove our threads. It is inevitable that our thread is a certain length and there is no lengthening of it. It can however be cut short by the paths we choose to take. Why do we choose our paths? It seems we are influenced by others. They give us several opportunities to follow them or not. We do have the complete and unalienable right to choose whatever path we walk. It seems though that as a species we have this wonderful trait called passing the buck. We don't want to take responsibility for anything. We blame others for our plight in life. We get angry for what has happened to us. What's the problem here? We all make our own beds. We all make our own choices. We all decide for ourselves. No one has power over us unless we choose to give it to them.
A Promise
These are the vows of a friend. I find them inspiring and enlightening. And I find them exactly what I have now in my life minus the marriage. I love that!!!
Guiding Principles Of Our Relationship
Introduction…
Finally we have found in each other a partner with whom we can share this journey called life in peace and trust and love, one day at a time. The path that has brought us to this beautiful place in our lives was long and arduous. It has left some scars and many lessons in its wake. And it has certainly taught us the importance of clarity in communication. It is in this context that we wish to express and document the guiding principles that we want to remember as we manifest each other's love each and every day.
There are three people in this relationship: you, me and us…
When we met there were two individuals walking separate paths. We were both enchanted by one of these individuals and wanted to include that individual in our lives. If we now trade in that individual person for a new entity known as US, we give up the very person to whom we were attracted to in the first place. Respecting the importance of this distinction in our personas is a cornerstone of the structure of our relationship.
The past is history, the future is mystery, today is a gift…
This is the present we give each other. No promises of the future, no secrets from the past. Just being grateful for each day we choose to share our lives. This ability to choose is important as it assures both of us that when the other is present in our life it is truly a gift and not an obligation.
Lead or Follow…
Working by consensus is tedious and reduces excellence down to the mediocrity of the lowest common denominator. We can both lead and we can both follow. Taking turns at these roles allows both of us to control our individual destiny while still having the benefit of the other's support and wisdom.
Preservation of Individuality through Segregated Property Ownership…
Segregated Property Ownership is important as it facilitates the unconditional acceptance of one another that is also a cornerstone of our love. Knowing that each of us is responsible for our selves and having that fact reinforced regularly by the way we manage our financial affairs and legal obligations makes it possible for each of us to accept actions by the other that we might find objectionable or disturbing if we felt that we were financially responsible for each other.
Recognizing that our guiding principals establish a code of behaviour, roles and responsibilities that stand in contrast to the traditional marriage contract or common law arrangement…. we hereby wish to share with you the unique nature of our relationship; our "Partnership".
Guiding Principles Of Our Relationship
Introduction…
Finally we have found in each other a partner with whom we can share this journey called life in peace and trust and love, one day at a time. The path that has brought us to this beautiful place in our lives was long and arduous. It has left some scars and many lessons in its wake. And it has certainly taught us the importance of clarity in communication. It is in this context that we wish to express and document the guiding principles that we want to remember as we manifest each other's love each and every day.
There are three people in this relationship: you, me and us…
When we met there were two individuals walking separate paths. We were both enchanted by one of these individuals and wanted to include that individual in our lives. If we now trade in that individual person for a new entity known as US, we give up the very person to whom we were attracted to in the first place. Respecting the importance of this distinction in our personas is a cornerstone of the structure of our relationship.
The past is history, the future is mystery, today is a gift…
This is the present we give each other. No promises of the future, no secrets from the past. Just being grateful for each day we choose to share our lives. This ability to choose is important as it assures both of us that when the other is present in our life it is truly a gift and not an obligation.
Lead or Follow…
Working by consensus is tedious and reduces excellence down to the mediocrity of the lowest common denominator. We can both lead and we can both follow. Taking turns at these roles allows both of us to control our individual destiny while still having the benefit of the other's support and wisdom.
Preservation of Individuality through Segregated Property Ownership…
Segregated Property Ownership is important as it facilitates the unconditional acceptance of one another that is also a cornerstone of our love. Knowing that each of us is responsible for our selves and having that fact reinforced regularly by the way we manage our financial affairs and legal obligations makes it possible for each of us to accept actions by the other that we might find objectionable or disturbing if we felt that we were financially responsible for each other.
Recognizing that our guiding principals establish a code of behaviour, roles and responsibilities that stand in contrast to the traditional marriage contract or common law arrangement…. we hereby wish to share with you the unique nature of our relationship; our "Partnership".
Saturday, January 24, 2009
The Context of the Man of my Dreams
The man of my dreams must be attractive to me! I am not as concerned about what his looks or color are. I will know he is amazing just by looking into his eyes. They will have an effect like none other. Like he can see into your very soul with just a glance. It will be instantaneous!
He will be elegant, suave and debonair. He will be quite fine to look at (In other words a FABULOUS body).
He will have the wisdom of ages and the strength of a god. He will be kind, gentle and loving and know how to touch and when to touch. He will have a mischievous side to him. He will love to tickle, tease and play. He will be an amazing lover with the knowledge of women rivaling that of the consorts of India.
He will not be afraid to share himself, cry or laugh at the smallest of things. He will not be afraid to say what is on his mind, to listen and to understand. He will love to cuddle, stroke my hair and just hold me for the sake of being close.
He will be patient, passionate and generous. He will love surprises and bringing me small gifts me like flowers, jewelry, all from his heart.
He’ll love children and how they are whether he has them or not. But he will not need children to make him “a man”
He will love to spend the entire day in bed watching old movies or making love, or being out exploring the city, window shopping, taking in tea/coffee or just sitting on a park bench watching the day go by.
He will love ballets, concerts and operas as well as festivals and museum openings. His library will rival mine and his knowledge will be diverse and eclectic. He will love to take walks. He will be a fabulous cook. He will be organized, clean and efficient in his house. He will be fashionable and have and eye for beauty in his home.
He will love to dream, walk on the beach, play tag or sit naked in a thunderstorm feeling the rain wash his body clean. He will love to wash my back in the bath. He will love to wake up to the sound of birds, watch the sunset and look for the green flash as the sun sizzles on the horizon.
He will love to travel, see the world and want homes in more than one country. He will love art, be culturally literate and know about the world and environmental issues. He will be extraordinarily generous and kind and love life, for life.
From watching a garden grow on a sunny afternoon to sailing on a yacht in a storm, taking a drive around the neighborhood on a rainy day, listening to a fire crackle on a warm summer night under the stars to exploring the Amazon to digging for relics in a jungle. Life is an adventure to be explored.
This is who will be in my life.
A Renaissance Man.
ps. this is only the beginning....there is more..
addendum to…… The man of my dreams will be quite athletic, love the ocean, being in, on, under, over or around it. He will love everything from a hard core day of sailing in 40 knot winds with the gunnels down and running, running the tender around and checking out all the cool homes on the shore. Exploring Europe to taking a canoe up a remote Amazon river to see some ancient ruins. Snorkeling, fishing (all kinds), camping, rock climbing, hiking, walking, outrigger canoe paddling, surfing, kayaking, rafting, Bungee jumping…nude….. This also includes the quiet days at anchor, watching the sun set across the horizon as the sails are pulled in and the motor fired up, listening to the waves crash on the beach as the hot dogs roast on the fire. Sitting by a fire drinking a hot toddy while it rains outside.
Life is an adventure to be discovered. There are too many things to do and places to go to stay home all the time. Been there… done that!!!
He will be elegant, suave and debonair. He will be quite fine to look at (In other words a FABULOUS body).
He will have the wisdom of ages and the strength of a god. He will be kind, gentle and loving and know how to touch and when to touch. He will have a mischievous side to him. He will love to tickle, tease and play. He will be an amazing lover with the knowledge of women rivaling that of the consorts of India.
He will not be afraid to share himself, cry or laugh at the smallest of things. He will not be afraid to say what is on his mind, to listen and to understand. He will love to cuddle, stroke my hair and just hold me for the sake of being close.
He will be patient, passionate and generous. He will love surprises and bringing me small gifts me like flowers, jewelry, all from his heart.
He’ll love children and how they are whether he has them or not. But he will not need children to make him “a man”
He will love to spend the entire day in bed watching old movies or making love, or being out exploring the city, window shopping, taking in tea/coffee or just sitting on a park bench watching the day go by.
He will love ballets, concerts and operas as well as festivals and museum openings. His library will rival mine and his knowledge will be diverse and eclectic. He will love to take walks. He will be a fabulous cook. He will be organized, clean and efficient in his house. He will be fashionable and have and eye for beauty in his home.
He will love to dream, walk on the beach, play tag or sit naked in a thunderstorm feeling the rain wash his body clean. He will love to wash my back in the bath. He will love to wake up to the sound of birds, watch the sunset and look for the green flash as the sun sizzles on the horizon.
He will love to travel, see the world and want homes in more than one country. He will love art, be culturally literate and know about the world and environmental issues. He will be extraordinarily generous and kind and love life, for life.
From watching a garden grow on a sunny afternoon to sailing on a yacht in a storm, taking a drive around the neighborhood on a rainy day, listening to a fire crackle on a warm summer night under the stars to exploring the Amazon to digging for relics in a jungle. Life is an adventure to be explored.
This is who will be in my life.
A Renaissance Man.
ps. this is only the beginning....there is more..
addendum to…… The man of my dreams will be quite athletic, love the ocean, being in, on, under, over or around it. He will love everything from a hard core day of sailing in 40 knot winds with the gunnels down and running, running the tender around and checking out all the cool homes on the shore. Exploring Europe to taking a canoe up a remote Amazon river to see some ancient ruins. Snorkeling, fishing (all kinds), camping, rock climbing, hiking, walking, outrigger canoe paddling, surfing, kayaking, rafting, Bungee jumping…nude….. This also includes the quiet days at anchor, watching the sun set across the horizon as the sails are pulled in and the motor fired up, listening to the waves crash on the beach as the hot dogs roast on the fire. Sitting by a fire drinking a hot toddy while it rains outside.
Life is an adventure to be discovered. There are too many things to do and places to go to stay home all the time. Been there… done that!!!
Pelé
The day was bright; the sky was full of vog washing the sky gray. The air smelled thick and had a sense of foreboding to it. Birds were unusually absent and there wasn’t a wisp of wind. Towering Palm trees stood like sentinels watching over the sparse landscape, protecting it, holding it against the ferocious winds that can whip across the land at times. The sea glistened a brilliant turquoise contrasting against the gray sky.
I found myself walking down a rock path towards a village. As I walked along the sky began to darken ahead of me. Nearing the village I came upon an old woman sitting along the side of the road. She was bent and decrepit with stringy white hair. Wearing dirty rags, she looked like a beggar. There was something about her that gave me chills up the back of my neck. When I got closer she looked up at me asked for a drink and a cigarette. Her eyes were the color of coal. I told her I didn’t have anything on me, but that if she accompanied me to the near village that we could get her some water and probably find her a cigarette. She thanked me, I helped her up, she put her arm in mine we began a slow walk to the village.
Nearing the village we began encountering people. The old woman asked each one she passed for a drink and a cigarette. She was met with derisive comments, pushed aside and laughed at. Each time she put her head down and muttered something under her breath. Then she’d turn back to me, take my arm and we’d continue on towards the village.
Once inside the village we headed towards the well in the center of the square. The farther into the village we went the more villagers stared, laughed and made rude comments towards the old woman. I felt angry and embarrassed for her. Once I tried to protect her. She reached out, took hold of my arm and told me to keep my voice, that soon she would have her day. When we reached the well, I got a drink of water for her first. As soon as she drank I turned to get one for myself. As I drank a hush fell around the square. I turned and suddenly the old woman was gone and in her place was a tall beautiful woman with fire in her eyes, coal black wavy hair and a foreboding frown on her face. I knew this must be Pele. But how? What happened to the old woman? She looked down at me, smiled, and touched my cheek knowing my wonder. Then she turned towards the villagers and her voice sounded like thunder, “You ignored me and laughed at me. For that you will be pay” The villagers suddenly realizing that she was Pele the goddess of Fire rushed forward to kneel and beg forgiveness.
Ignoring them she turned back to me and said, “Leave here quickly and never look back. There is a rocky knoll a short distance down the trail from here. Go there and wait. You will be safe there. DO NOT look back to this village as you leave or you will suffer the same as they do.” With that she vanished.
The people in the square began crying and wailing in panic, suddenly they were running everywhere, trying to flee before Pele took her revenge. I left quickly. As I was leaving a loud rumbling began behind me, It grew louder and the ground began to shake violently. It sounded like thousands of freight trains rumbling towards me. I wanted to turn and look, but remembered her warning and began to run. I could feel intense heat behind me and knew Pele was exacting her revenge with fire. I saw the rocky knoll and headed for it. As soon I reached the knoll, lava suddenly was all around me. I started to cry afraid I would be dead within seconds. I raised my arms, closed my eyes and pleaded to Pele to spare my life. Suddenly I was calm, I felt protected and knew I was safe and would live to see the sunset that day. I don’t know how long I stood with my arms outstretched.
When I opened my eyes, I looked around and found I was alone in a sea of black lava. Everything was gone, the village, the people, trees, there was no sign of any life around me. Everything was wiped clean. It had become deathly quiet. Life had ceased to exist on this small spot of the world. Not even the wind dared raise his voice to the anger of Pele. The sun began to set and the sky became a glowing orange-red. Watching the day end I was suddenly at peace. Something amazing had happened and somehow I was a part of it.
I watched the sun turn to cinders as it slipped over the horizon. I lost track of time and lay down to rest. I must have slept because suddenly I felt something wet and cold across my face. I opened my eyes, wiped my hand across my wet face and looked up at a huge black dog standing over me. Around his neck was a golden flask. He licked me again as I sat up. The eyes of this dog were sea green and sparkled with flecks of gold that glinted in the light. It was as though you could fall into the depths of his eyes when you looked deep enough. This was the largest dog I’d ever seen, towering over me by feet. When I got up he nudged me and rubbed his neck against me. I untied the flask, opened it and smelled the contents. A sweet fragrance came to my nose. I knew it was safe. When I began to drink a voice came to me. “For your generosity and kindness I repay you with my drink. I have spared you and sent my devoted dog to aid you in your journey home. He is faithful and will lead you to safety. Heed him well for he is my favorite. Thank you for all you’ve done and will do. You are in my favor” I drained the flask and felt refreshed. As I looked at the dog his eyes began to glow and he looked towards the horizon where the sun had set. I suddenly knew how to get home.
I stepped from the knoll to walk in the direction he had gazed. When I turned to see if he was following me he was gone. I was alone once again, but I knew where I needed to be. As I started on my journey home the horizon started to glow purple from dawn approaching.
I rolled over and woke up. I was sweating and my hair was matted against the back of my neck. Whew! What a dream!!!
Later that day I discussed this dream with Auntie Dalina. She hugged me long and smiled. “You have been blessed Pua, use it for the lesson it is and remember, You are now Hawaii’s child”.
Pua Lilia DuFour
I found myself walking down a rock path towards a village. As I walked along the sky began to darken ahead of me. Nearing the village I came upon an old woman sitting along the side of the road. She was bent and decrepit with stringy white hair. Wearing dirty rags, she looked like a beggar. There was something about her that gave me chills up the back of my neck. When I got closer she looked up at me asked for a drink and a cigarette. Her eyes were the color of coal. I told her I didn’t have anything on me, but that if she accompanied me to the near village that we could get her some water and probably find her a cigarette. She thanked me, I helped her up, she put her arm in mine we began a slow walk to the village.
Nearing the village we began encountering people. The old woman asked each one she passed for a drink and a cigarette. She was met with derisive comments, pushed aside and laughed at. Each time she put her head down and muttered something under her breath. Then she’d turn back to me, take my arm and we’d continue on towards the village.
Once inside the village we headed towards the well in the center of the square. The farther into the village we went the more villagers stared, laughed and made rude comments towards the old woman. I felt angry and embarrassed for her. Once I tried to protect her. She reached out, took hold of my arm and told me to keep my voice, that soon she would have her day. When we reached the well, I got a drink of water for her first. As soon as she drank I turned to get one for myself. As I drank a hush fell around the square. I turned and suddenly the old woman was gone and in her place was a tall beautiful woman with fire in her eyes, coal black wavy hair and a foreboding frown on her face. I knew this must be Pele. But how? What happened to the old woman? She looked down at me, smiled, and touched my cheek knowing my wonder. Then she turned towards the villagers and her voice sounded like thunder, “You ignored me and laughed at me. For that you will be pay” The villagers suddenly realizing that she was Pele the goddess of Fire rushed forward to kneel and beg forgiveness.
Ignoring them she turned back to me and said, “Leave here quickly and never look back. There is a rocky knoll a short distance down the trail from here. Go there and wait. You will be safe there. DO NOT look back to this village as you leave or you will suffer the same as they do.” With that she vanished.
The people in the square began crying and wailing in panic, suddenly they were running everywhere, trying to flee before Pele took her revenge. I left quickly. As I was leaving a loud rumbling began behind me, It grew louder and the ground began to shake violently. It sounded like thousands of freight trains rumbling towards me. I wanted to turn and look, but remembered her warning and began to run. I could feel intense heat behind me and knew Pele was exacting her revenge with fire. I saw the rocky knoll and headed for it. As soon I reached the knoll, lava suddenly was all around me. I started to cry afraid I would be dead within seconds. I raised my arms, closed my eyes and pleaded to Pele to spare my life. Suddenly I was calm, I felt protected and knew I was safe and would live to see the sunset that day. I don’t know how long I stood with my arms outstretched.
When I opened my eyes, I looked around and found I was alone in a sea of black lava. Everything was gone, the village, the people, trees, there was no sign of any life around me. Everything was wiped clean. It had become deathly quiet. Life had ceased to exist on this small spot of the world. Not even the wind dared raise his voice to the anger of Pele. The sun began to set and the sky became a glowing orange-red. Watching the day end I was suddenly at peace. Something amazing had happened and somehow I was a part of it.
I watched the sun turn to cinders as it slipped over the horizon. I lost track of time and lay down to rest. I must have slept because suddenly I felt something wet and cold across my face. I opened my eyes, wiped my hand across my wet face and looked up at a huge black dog standing over me. Around his neck was a golden flask. He licked me again as I sat up. The eyes of this dog were sea green and sparkled with flecks of gold that glinted in the light. It was as though you could fall into the depths of his eyes when you looked deep enough. This was the largest dog I’d ever seen, towering over me by feet. When I got up he nudged me and rubbed his neck against me. I untied the flask, opened it and smelled the contents. A sweet fragrance came to my nose. I knew it was safe. When I began to drink a voice came to me. “For your generosity and kindness I repay you with my drink. I have spared you and sent my devoted dog to aid you in your journey home. He is faithful and will lead you to safety. Heed him well for he is my favorite. Thank you for all you’ve done and will do. You are in my favor” I drained the flask and felt refreshed. As I looked at the dog his eyes began to glow and he looked towards the horizon where the sun had set. I suddenly knew how to get home.
I stepped from the knoll to walk in the direction he had gazed. When I turned to see if he was following me he was gone. I was alone once again, but I knew where I needed to be. As I started on my journey home the horizon started to glow purple from dawn approaching.
I rolled over and woke up. I was sweating and my hair was matted against the back of my neck. Whew! What a dream!!!
Later that day I discussed this dream with Auntie Dalina. She hugged me long and smiled. “You have been blessed Pua, use it for the lesson it is and remember, You are now Hawaii’s child”.
Pua Lilia DuFour
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