Conundrums, Choices & Clinging On!

Energetically speaking, these are tumultuous and somewhat rambunctious times. In fact, on most levels there is a sense of shift, movement and change! It feels like everything is speeding up but slowing down at the same time, and it can be hard to know if we are coming, going or are hovering somewhere in between. Yet, despite this seemingly uncertain and unknowable climate, deep within there is a strong sense of certainty beginning to rise and surface! A true time of paradox and conundrums!

It seems that it is only once we have immersed ourselves fully in the chaos that we can begin to see that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. However, this goes beyond stepping from darkness into the light, this journey to Self takes us beyond polarities to a place of knowing, Truth and love. Life is so much more than dark or light, and it is only when we have touched this, that we can fully surrender to the true flow and to the full magnificence of life.

We now find ourselves standing on a precipice; the decision to cling on to what we know feels appealing, for ‘better the devil we know’, but at the same time, we intuitively know that it is time to take a proverbial leap of faith into unknown territory in order to expand, blossom and grow.

Our inner landscape continues to take centre stage as there is a need to plant some new seeds in connection to our intent for the path ahead. It is time to feel the full power of intent and to realise that we do have what it takes to manifest our dreams into reality. Of course, life is never as simple as this, for as humans, we think, we analyse, we worry, and we procrastinate! But human we are, so we need to find a path through the obstacles that we often create through fear or doubt in order to reach a new place in life. This ‘place’ is a space to allow our true Selves to shine and to live as consciously and mindfully as possible.

This is a time to navigate our inner worlds in order to break free from the fear that so often keeps us trapped and locked in lack, constriction and suffering. It is important to know that our minds are free, and how we choose to think about life is perhaps our biggest gift. As our perception continues to sharpen and shift, we are beginning to see life in a very different way.

As we realise that we have been clinging on to habits and patterns through a fear of the ‘unknown’, the process of awakening is speeding up considerably. It seems that how we choose to interpret and understand our experiences defines and shapes both our lives and the journey ahead. When we put these together, it is clear to see that the only way to grow, blossom and evolve is to break free from the patterns that have shaped us, to be mindful of our thoughts and to realise that we are not simply powerless and drifting aimlessly along with the tides of life! We are awakened, sentient beings, and the more we grasp the nettle and take responsibility for our choices, thoughts and actions, the more we can fully embrace the power within and manifest Heaven on Earth.

So, as we cling on to that proverbial precipice, we have a choice. We can either cling on by our finger nails, locked in fear, or we can surrender to the Universal Flow and trust that we will be provided for and guided forwards. Of course, this brings to the surface another conundrum, how can we surrender and trust when there are bills to pay, jobs to be done etc? These are natural human concerns, and so many of us fear losing control and seeing our world crumbling before our eyes.

Yet, should we then remain ‘on the edge’ always in fear of taking a chance? In some ways, until we trust, surrender and ‘lose control’ (for at the end of the day, what control do we really have?), we cannot truly find freedom. We become so focused on surviving and getting by, that we lose the sparkle, passion and magic of the flow of life.

As we continue to navigate through these uncertain but certain times, and as we let go of the doubt, fear and angst which is both corrosive and erosive, we can begin to gain a true sense of why we are here...

So why are we here?

We are here to shine, to radiate and to glow! We are our own Creators, and it is time to truly believe this and to know that our path is exactly the right path for us. There are endless possibilities to explore, and there are no limits, for the only limits are the ones we put there.

It is time to dissolve resistance, guilt and fear, and to intuitively know, and truly believe, that we are free. We can do, and be, all that we want; for all things are possible when we allow ourselves to believe. It is time to use the gifts that we were born with, to surrender to the flow, to trust and to believe. It is time to stop pontificating and procrastinating; to take responsibility and to create our own wondrous, amazing and magnificent reality...

The Journey to Self (Neptune into Pisces)

February looks set to see a major shift both within and without as a sea of compassion, emotion and empathy stirs and begins to rise. There is a sense of a re-awakening occurring on an intensely personal, as well as a global, level as we become more aware and conscious. This awakening has been a long time coming, but it has also been part of a gradual process of the Journey to Self.

True understanding of our essence as well as having the faith, belief and courage to step fully into the flow of life in order to live the best life possible, seems to be at the root of this journey, for each of us is seeking more meaning, depth, purpose and joy. At the same time, living more simply, more consciously and more mindfully allows us to feel more connected to the Whole and to ourselves; we become one with the Divine essence.

In some ways this Journey to Self is a natural part of our evolution as human beings, but there is also an ‘urgency’ to this quest now as each of us seeks out clarity and purpose. We want to live meaningful and rich lives, and we want to celebrate the true flow of abundance on all levels. There is no ‘right or wrong’ path or flow, for as individuals, we are unique! Even if we do find ourselves going down a dead-end path, very often it is the jewels that we find, quite by chance, that become invaluable and cherished.

As our consciousness continues to rise and many sleepwalkers begin to stir and awaken, it seems that collectively we are stepping towards more conscious and more inspired living. There have already been huge shifts around the globe, and these look set to continue...

On the Journey to Self, is seems that embracing our divinity is perhaps the most significant job on our ‘to-do’ list at the current time. Yet, what does it mean? Is this something to seek out, to be? Do we need to find a teacher or guru to show us the way? Can we buy this or download it? Where is the instruction book?!

Of course the reality of embracing our divinity goes way beyond all of the above questions. It is a state of being; a realisation that is everything and nothing at the same time. When we step beyond linear thought (questions, questions!), we realise that seeking this state of being externally from one source or another kind of misses the point. We are already divine, we just need to wake up to this and surrender to it. This is a feeling, a sense that we are no longer isolated and cut off from the world, the universe etc, but we are a part of it; an integral part. This is not about ego, it is the complete opposite. This is about becoming a drop in the ocean of consciousness and knowing that the ocean is complete with you, and incomplete without you. It is also about accepting that you are not ‘better’ than other drops either...

Moving beyond ego is hard! We want to believe that we have a special purpose; that we are ‘different’, and of course we are. Every drop in the ocean has its place, its role.  When we surrender to the ocean and become totally at one with it and ourselves, we do not lose ourselves in the process, we find ourselves! Having a special purpose does not have to be ego-based, for when we live our purpose simply because it is our calling, the energy shifts from one of ego to something completely different.

Yet, surrendering and leaping into the ocean is fearful; it is unknown and it means that we may lose everything that currently defines and separates us from everyone else. Yet, if we lose these, perhaps they are not so great to begin with? Perhaps we have clung to external fixes in order to find a way to soothe the pain of being separated from the ocean? Perhaps we have been looking in the wrong place?

So it seems on the Journey to Self, we have a choice. We can continue to cling to the external in the hope that we do find what we are searching for, or we can take a deep breath, step willingly into the ocean and become completely at One.

Embracing our divinity does mean letting go of ego, and letting go of external sources for ‘completion’, but it also means living consciously, being awake and being divine...

Shifting Sands

It is all too easy to become lost and disorientated when trying to navigate the ebb and flow of the currents of life. Sometimes we can feel lost in an eddy or a maelstrom, unable to break free. Other times we can lose the wind in our sails and feel a deep sense of frustration with the apparent stillness and inertia.

However, when we look beneath the surface to the Core, we realise that we are not lost, but we have been allowing ourselves to become jostled by the surface currents of life. Like a buoy in a stormy sea, we can be bounced around, but we are still anchored, and once the storm has passed, it is likely that we will still be in the same place as before.

So, we have a choice. We can allow ourselves to get lost in the chaos of life or we can sink beneath the surface and connect to the stillness that resides there. Being still is like being a tree; our roots are strong and firm, yet still full of life and energy. It is rare (!) to see a tree rushing around trying to get a million and one things done in order to get to class or work...

Trees are what they are. They seed, they grow, they flourish, they seed, they drop leaves, grow buds or fruit, and then they die. Yet looking at this magnificent species in such a mechanical way takes away their grandeur, their essence and their magic. So, instead we choose to sense the life and the power of the tree, which brings us a deeper sense of meaning and understanding. So why do we not apply the same wisdom to ourselves? Why do we rush around trying to get everything done, never pausing to consider the magic and the joy of being alive?

Becoming lost in the currents of life is human, but we each have a vast landscape within to retreat to, to seek out answers and to heal. We need to tend the garden within, but it is important not to remain focused on the ½ an inch around our feet, for we need to explore new terrain from the wild mountains to the ocean depths. Our inner landscape belongs to us, and we are own Creators, so why place limits on something that has none?

If we can tend our inner world with love and respect, and spend time in reflection and celebrating the joy of life, we can begin to become One with ourselves and our true nature. Then we do not have to bounce around powerlessly in eddy’s and maelstroms, we can choose how to react, and come from a place of inner wisdom rather than a place of outer panic or angst.

Gandhi once said ‘In the attitude of silence the soul finds the path in a clearer light, and what is elusive and deceptive resolves itself into crystal clearness...’ 

It is time to realise that everything around us is within us, and the more we awaken to the Truth of this, the more we can move beyond feeling rudderless and directionless. We can begin to live consciously and mindfully, and we can allow every new experience to feed the seeds we have planted within, like the rain nourishing the earth. It is time to blossom into the beautiful flowers that we know, deep down, we already are...

Prison Break!

Despite this being a time of flux and unrest, there is a growing sense of certainty, clarity and purpose emerging. Like the daffodils breaking through the earth trying to reach the Sun, each of us seems to be vigorously working towards stepping into the full Light of Truth. This takes focus, determination, patience and belief, and it takes a great deal of perseverance!

Of course, the challenge whilst on such a path is to not become totally absorbed or lost in the process. Going with the flow is one thing, but losing sight of everything else is quite another.

This is a time to nurture, nourish and tend the garden within. It is a time to take care of ourselves in every possible way from the food we ingest to the air we breathe. Whilst there are many things that we cannot control (like the quality of the air we breathe), we can visualise clear fresh air entering our lungs even if we cannot physically fully experience it. The power of intent and belief is a strong one after all.

The garden within is more than just a garden, it is a vast and endless terrain, and it is important not to just focus on the tiny flower bed within sight. Why not explore the wild mountains or the ocean depths? Remember as an inner world, it is of our own making, so why limit it? In fact, the more we create and bring into being within, the more connected we become with the Divine, and the more we realise that we are Divine Beings, sparks of Divine Essence; part of the Whole.

Of course, in our inner world, everything is possible, and whilst the reality of everyday life may not appear this way, sometimes we have to shift our perspective in order to see a new way of reaching our goals. The more we believe that we can bring about positive change in our lives, then the more we can create positive change! Yet, so often fear and doubt keep us trapped in a self-built prison of restraint, restriction and lack simply because we dare not believe that we can have, do, or be more.

Letting go of fear and doubt is easy to say, but much harder to do, for it involves facing the fear and riding the anxiety in order to reach pastures new. Yet, until we do this, we remain stuck and frustrated at the self-created prison. Of course, this prison can be a delightful little garden, but it is a prison all the same. There is a vast, timeless and boundless landscape to explore, and sticking to a little patch of soil may feel safe, but is it truly satisfying?

Part of facing fear comes from being true and accepting that we just cannot push away those aspects of ourselves that we dislike. Acceptance means accepting ourselves in every possible way – the good, the bad and the ugly! This is not to say that we must resign ourselves to those aspects that we dislike, but in order to evolve, we need to accept their presence in the first place.

The more we tend our inner worlds, the more the outer world shifts into clearer focus. One does impact the other, and so often we look outside of ourselves for the answers or the solution. Yet the answers are within. This realisation is the key to true acceptance, for it helps us to see that we are not powerless, rudderless lost souls, but we have the tools for our own redemption.

Loving ourselves is the next step on this path, and it is perhaps one of the most challenging things to face. How many of us truly love ourselves? How many of us always think positive, loving, nurturing thoughts? Yet without love, how can we fully awaken and evolve into the amazing beings that we truly are? Love is the mesh that unifies, heals and nourishes, and it is love that is all around and within us now.

Take some time to breathe in loving energy, feel it, hear it, smell it, taste it. Live as consciously as possible and step into the present moment wide awake with a love-filled heart and soul. Let love heal toxic and negative thoughts, and let love be the guiding light towards inner knowing and Truth...

Become The Flow

Does a flower change the colour of its petals because it feels self-conscious or different? Unlikely.

Does a tree ever wonder if being an oak tree would be nicer than being an apple tree? Probably not.

As conscious human beings, we often look beyond nature’s laws and spend a great deal of our time trying to go against the flow of life. Life does have a flow; it is not always ‘love, light and bliss’, nor it is always ‘darkness and pain’. Most of us have our fair share of both.

We can try to change the flow, to slow it down or speed it up; we may even try to stop the flow completely or shift it into another valley or flood plain. What is wrong with the flow we are in now? Is the flow always more blissful on the other side of the fence? We may not feel that our lives are as blissful as we would like, but to constantly fight the flow is like fighting the essence of who we truly are.

This is not about giving up or being a victim to circumstance, far from it. This is about surrendering fully and consciously into the flow in order to fully awaken and find ourselves.

We can spend a great amount of time in life trying to control the flow, trying to avoid pain and trying desperately to cling to security. Yet, external security and outer manifestations of comfort rarely give us what we need. The security, bliss and joy we yearn for is much deeper, and much bigger, than this. Yet it is already within us, we do not need to seek it out or track it down, we need to surrender into the flow of our essence, to feel the pain, the joy and to live in the present moment. The past is long gone and the future has not happened yet; what we have is the present moment in time, and this is the most precious gift of all.

How many of us spend our lives thinking about our plans and dreams, feeling that we can achieve ‘a’ once we have achieved ‘b’? ‘B’ is very often along the lines of ‘once I have lost weight’, ‘once I have met the perfect partner’ or ‘once I have found the right home’. Yet, all of these are irrelevant in the bigger scheme of things, for it is our essence, our souls, that matter, and once we can live fully consciously in the present moment, we realise the true gift of our own magnificence.

Magnificence does not come from ego. It is not about being the best; it is about realising that we are magnificent beings, that we are a manifestation of the Divine. We are all Divine; it is not outside of us, it is within us. It is under that stone, it is within that tree and yes, it is also within those that do unspeakable things. Divinity is not a separate force that we have to seek out; we simply need to awaken, to become fully conscious in the present moment and breathe.

Once we can unify ourselves from within, we can see that we not only have the power to re-shape our lives, but we are already doing it!

Ever since we came into consciousness, we have been shaping and moulding our lives and our paths. Perhaps subconsciously, perhaps deliberately, but we have been using our power nonetheless. Making a step towards being fully conscious is significant now, for this is the path towards not only inner unification but global unification as well.

Everything in nature is not only around you, but it is within you. Sounds great, but what does it mean? It means that you are vast, you are Divine; you are the Universe. The Universe is you, The Universe is within you. Yes, The Universe (The Divine) is all around you too, but seeking this externally seems to leave emptiness, separation and suffering. Seeking and finding The Divine (The Universe) within brings love, bliss and completeness...

The more we can surrender to the flow and embrace our own magnificence and bliss, the more we will stop trying to bend ourselves out of shape to be something that we are not. Once again, this is not about giving up on dreams or goals: it is about embracing our completeness in order to live consciously. Living consciously enables us to reach towards our dreams with joy, bliss and belief. Feel the words. Feel the power. Become the power. Become the flow...

Consciousness Rising

Last night I went on a journey. I moved beyond myself, beyond lifetimes, beyond time, beyond space and beyond words. I became pure energy and pure consciousness. I felt no restriction, and instead I felt infinite possibility; I became infinite possibility.

In this space I moved beyond day or night, light or dark, joy or sadness. It felt blissful but empty at the same time; but this felt perfect and right. In this space I felt like the Universe was within me and part of me; and I was part of it at the same time.

As I travelled beyond consciousness, beyond language and beyond comprehension I realised that every moment is endless, for there are no limits. The only limits we face are the ones that we put there.

The need to embrace Truth and to follow Destiny seemed so important for these are the keys to becoming whole, and becoming One with all there is. Of course, we are already whole and One, but few of us ever realise this.

Becoming pure energy moved me beyond the human mind and beyond the restrictions of being in physical form. It made me think about what truly makes my heart sing and it was amazing to feel awoken and connected.

As energy, the myriad of colours weaved up and down my ‘body’, I felt peaceful, energised and tranquil at the same time. The energy flow was like a river constantly moving and the currents shifting created a beautiful dance; a cosmic and celestial dance, which was amazing and incredible, beautiful and vibrant.

As I returned to physical form, life has somehow moved into sharper focus; every colour is now more vibrant and everything seems more alive and energised. Perhaps this is purely my perception, but perhaps not.

***

Cosmically and Universally there is so much occurring (the Solstice on the 22nd, the New Moon on the 24th, Jupiter moving Direct on the 25th as well as a myriad of other ‘shifts’ happening on many different levels of awareness). The ebb and flow of the planets and the Universe seems to have taken on a new momentum as each of us continues forward towards self-discovery, enlightenment and bliss.

Life carries its fair share of challenges, but it seems that the more we realise the vastness of our potential and the true nature of the power of our intent, then we can begin to handle such challenges and build a new Heaven on Earth.

This shift begins from the inside, out. In some ways it is passive, for it involves a change in perspective. But, at the same time, it is also hugely energetic and full of potential, for once we have fully surrendered to our own magnificence, then we can begin to use our gifts to transform on every level.

There has been some long dark nights of the soul; nights so long that it seemed the dawn would never come. But the dawn has come, and we need to keep on keeping on with faith in our hearts and the power of intent driving us forward. Obviously, much has been learnt in the process, and with each passing day we become more evolved and more inspired to make the most of every single moment in order to live the best life possible.

***

It is immense to feel the power of who you truly are. Pause for a moment to connect to this; feel your power, feel your Self awakening fully and living consciously. Remember to live your Truth, to surrender to your own magnificence, to love your Self and to embrace every moment as fully and as consciously as possible. You are an energetic, vibrating, incredible Being; feel the power within and without. You are your own Creator, and your life is in your hands now.

The time has come to fully awaken to your natural state of Being; you are amazing and wonderful – feel this now, believe it!

The time has come to fully use the power of your intent to create Heaven on Earth; to transform the world from the inside, out. This power, this gift, is within each and every one of us, and it seems that once we let go of the restrictions and the shackles of doubt, fear and uncertainty, then Heaven on Earth is not only possible, but it has already arrived...

An Angel in Hobnailed Boots

Ever get the feeling that you are running on a treadmill, stuck in one place, and no matter how hard or fast you run, you never get any further forward? There have been quite a few moments like this over the past few weeks and months, and their intensity seems to be increasing!

It seems that the reason for this is connected to our growing awareness of their presence, and this in itself makes them more marked and profound! Yet, this does not have to be a self-fulfilling prophecy for we can shift our perspectives in order to look beyond the challenge in order to see the opportunity that such moments in life present us. Whilst it can be hard to see even a glimpse of opportunity through the frustration, if we can begin to see that each challenge is, in itself, making us stronger, then this is a start!

When life feels challenging, every day can feel daunting, and it can be hard to breathe. When life throws us head first into chaos and challenges, it is only natural to want to understand these and to ensure that they never happen again. We may choose to withdraw from life a little, but our life force withers at the same time. Or we can stand firm, like a flower in the storm, gently bending and flexing with the wind.

Deep within each and every one of us is infinite potential; we are Divine sparks. Once we awaken from limited thought, restricting beliefs and from seeing external attachments as goals in themselves, then everything becomes possible. Even those down’s move into clearer perspective, because after each ‘down’ comes an ‘up’, and we can choose to get lost in the grief of losing the up or we can surrender to the flow and ride it like a rollercoaster. How we perceive the down’s is the key to riding the storm and bending like that flower, rather than resisting and snapping like a brittle twig.

Ever since we came into consciousness, we have been shaping and moulding our lives and our paths. Perhaps subconsciously, perhaps deliberately, but we have been using our power nonetheless. Making a step towards being fully conscious of all of this is significant now, for this is the path towards not only inner unification but global unification as well. As we begin to awaken, we realise that we place ourselves on the treadmill of life; perhaps through fear or convenience, perhaps through boredom or a desperate need to cling to something familiar. Whatever the reason, it is time to own that choice and to either accept it or to step onto a path that is open-ended and unfamiliar.

We each have our sources of guidance in life; some connect to angels, some to guides or companions, and some to other Beings. Some of us simply follow our own in-built guidance systems and trust the flow. Whatever our inspiration, it seems that the time has come to ‘toughen up’ in order to take some important and significant steps forwards in life. It is time to ask our angels to put on their hobnailed boots, to roll up their sleeves and to give each of us a well-meaning virtual nudge in the ribs to keep us focused and motivated to step off the treadmill once and for all!

Our guides and inspiration are not passive, meek and mild; they are magnificent and powerful, and we need to realise that they are a part of us, making us magnificent and powerful! So, put on your hobnailed boots and get ready for the ride...

Embrace The Magic

Today is a special day. It is special because there is a total Lunar Eclipse, and it is special because Uranus moves direct in Aries today. Eclipses usually herald change, and today is no exception! Uranus is the truth seeker, the freedom fighter and the individual. He inspires each of us to be unique and free on all levels of our Being.

Uranus direct in Aries inspires us to have the courage of our convictions, to let go of fear, and to boldly go where we have never gone before! We have been swiftly moving to this moment over the past weeks, months and years, and it seems that the time has now come to let go of self-doubts and to realise our full potential. This feels like a magical and illuminating moment; a time of shift within and without, and a time of awakening.

Of course we have a choice. We can remain as we are, with a safe and familiar path, reassured that we are within our ‘comfort zones’ in life, or we can take a risk and step into unknown territory and follow our dreams. Reality tempers this in many ways, but only because our perceptions and beliefs are limiting in themselves; our thoughts do shape our lives, after all. If we believe that we can follow our dreams and still thrive on all levels in life, then surely we stand a better chance of making this work than if we remain frozen in uncertainty and fear? Changing the dynamic can make such a difference...

Of course, having bills to pay, food to buy etc. is a guiding force for so many of us, for that is life! Yet, Uranus takes us beyond the mundane and the practical into a world of personal power, personal belief and personal intention. He helps us to realise that we are the ones who place ourselves in limiting patterns by our thoughts and beliefs, and he wants us to break free from this in order to live vibrantly and magically; energetically and fully.

Uranus wants us to hear our hearts singly loudly; he wants us to shatter outdated and outmoded illusions in order to create a new reality. He wants us to let go of everything that holds us back or prevents us from being and living our Truth. We are our own Creators, and Uranus wants us to fully embrace the power and immensity of this now.

In many ways, Uranus is the planet of infinite possibilities; one person can create a chain reaction of change (a thought, an idea or an action) that can literally send shock waves of new thought or changed behaviour around the world. Uranus is the archetypal Butterfly Effect. It is time to see change both within and without; the earth is changing, humanity is changing and it is only by embracing Uranus that these flashes of genius and insight can flow bringing about a whole new world...

Uranus is also the lightning strike that breaks down barriers; he inspires us to become more intuitive and more connected with the Universe. Uranus reflects our innate human longing to know where we are going and why, but also our need to feel part of something bigger. In some ways we need to surrender to the flow and the power of the Universe in order to allow ourselves to feel truly connected; not easy though, for the head and the mind like to rationalise and ponder, but this goes beyond thoughts and ideas, and it goes beyond words and language, for this is a place of feeling and being.

Change begins within, and we now need to break down the barriers and blocks within in order to shift our consciousness to a new, enriching and nourishing level. Feel the power of this moment and this shift; feel it (truly feel it and be it) and the first step has been taken...

So, it seems that today is a day to step into the magic, to feel the wonder, to reclaim our power and to declare our intentions to the Universe. All in 24 little hours!

Reflections

There can be no denying that 2011 has been a year of contrast on just about every level of existence! Of course, there are still a few weeks to go and it seems that the cosmic twists and turns are likely to continue, and possibly even intensify now.

In some ways we have been on a journey within and without this year; we have sought out new depths within as our outer worlds have shifted and transformed. Whilst processes are ongoing, it seems clear that our perspectives are the key to how we embrace and manage such ebbs, flows and maelstroms.

When we look in the mirror, we may see the same face staring back at us, but look closer, look into the eyes, there is something different there. Whilst it may be hard to pinpoint exactly what shifts we have gone through during the last few months, it cannot be denied that we somehow feel different. Of course, being human, we want to understand this shift and we want to be able to rationalise things, but sometimes, this just isn’t possible. Sometimes, it is more important to embrace a new state of being rather than spend time looking back trying to make sense of it all. Being present in the current moment and living this new state of consciousness is where we need to be.

Whilst the changes may, on the surface, seem small and perhaps even insignificant, it is only when we look deeply within that we realise that we are no longer the same people that we were just a few months ago. We have stepped through a doorway in consciousness, and realised that, as divine sparks, we are awakening more and more to the infinity of possibility and potential that lies within. How we think, feel, act, meditate, and be, are all so important now for we need to live as consciously as possible now in order to embrace our magnificence.

Being magnificent is not ego based nor is it arrogance; it is a shift in consciousness to realising that we are all One. We are the Universe, the Universe is us. We are entwined and interconnected with all there is...

This is a time to remember. To remember that we are not isolated fragments in a fractured world, but integral parts of the whole. To remember that we shape our world through our thoughts, actions and beliefs, therefore everything we do has an implication. To remember that there are endless possibilities to explore, and as pioneering adventurers, we need to have the courage to step into the unknown. And to remember that we are usually the one that places limits on our own lives through fear or doubt, so the time to set ourselves free has finally arrived.

We are awoken. Time now to bask in the glorious sunshine of a new dawn...

Saving The Best ‘til Last

This quote was in my diary for this week, and it has really made me think.

‘They say such nice things about people at their funerals that it makes me sad to realise that I’m going to miss mine by just a few days’. Garrison Keillor, American Writer

We often speak of the wonderfulness of people when they die, but how often do we tell them this when they are alive? Indeed, how often do we tell ourselves how wonderful we are?

A funeral is a celebration of life, but do we have to wait until we die to celebrate our magnificence or our brilliance? We are all incredible Beings, and the sooner we realise this, the sooner we can embrace our full potential and live the life that we were born to live.

These are tumultuous times physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially and energetically. We are in a state of flux and change, and it can be hard to know whether we are coming, going or have got stuck somewhere in between.

We do have a choice though, we can resist and turn our backs on change, trying to fight it with every last breath; or we can embrace it and use it to transform and evolve. After a storm, it is the plants and trees that have bent with the wind that remain standing. Those that stand rigid, are often the ones lost. This is itself is a lesson of nature, but if we use this analogy and take it deeper within ourselves, it is important to know that it is possible to stand firm but in a fluid and giving way, rather than a tense and fear driven way.

Sometimes we have to surrender to the ebb and flow of life; this is not about being powerless and drifting along with the currents of life (although we all do that), but this is about resisting less and becoming more flexible and fluid.

Life is essentially what we make of it. The aim is not to arrive at the end of life in a pristine condition having lived a perfect life, for it is the scars and war wounds that make us individuals and give us character. We rarely know when to expect the end of life, but surely the aim is to make the most of each and every day, to live a life well lived, to enjoy each breath and to live as consciously as possible? Life then truly becomes a living celebration and is not held back until we pass!

The time to celebrate is now; the time to embrace life is now. Life is not a rehearsal, it is but a speck of time or the blink of an eye in Universal terms; but it is important none the less. We can make it significant, well-lived, rich and meaningful or we can simply keep our heads down waiting and hoping for something better to come along. It is clear that in order to become inspired and empowered, we need to realise that we need to take control and to live fully and consciously in the present moment, to grab life with both hands and to celebrate each success when it happens.

So, when was the last time that you gave yourself a pat on the back and said well done? When was the last time you honoured yourself and realised just how special you truly are?

We each have a choice, we can wait to be remembered as magnificent, or we can become a living representation of it now! The same can be said for those around us; it is time now to celebrate not denigrate, to honour not disrespect.

Say it now! Believe it, feel it and know that you are a truly special, wonderful individual! Now you can pay this forwards...

11.11.11.11.11

The 11th minute of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of the 11th year of the 21st century. How often can we have a moment like this is our lifetimes?!

There is a great deal of focus and energy being placed on this moment in time; a great deal of hope and expectation. What does it represent? What does it mean? There are lots of theories and ideas bubbling around the globe, from portals opening to a shift in DNA. In essence though, perhaps the most significant focus of this day is to simply bring together like minded souls who collectively share a vision of hope, healing, love and evolution.

The more people that come together and unify, the more we can truly understand the nature of all of the cosmic shifts, twists and turns that we have witnessed and will continue to witness. Unity is one-ness, the Uni-verse is one-ness and the more we connect to, and live, this one-ness, the more we realise just how magnificent we truly are.

The nature of being human sees us define ourselves by the sum of our past; what happened before shapes us, moulds us and makes us whom we are today. We look back to spiritual knowledge and to the wisdom of the past to give the present (and the future) meaning and purpose; we seek a full awakening from our seemingly long dark nights of the soul.

Yet, can the past truly shape and define us? Have we not reached a point in our evolution where we need to define ourselves by the present moment? Can we always find an answer from the past? In some ways, of course we can, but if we are truly evolving now surely we need to stop looking backwards and start looking forwards!

In essence, it seems to be a time to stop seeking meaning from the outside world and to go within in order to find the answers and solutions to our lives. We may not have ‘all the answers’, but no one has, not on this earth. Yet, if we are to grow and evolve, isn’t a part of that making ‘mistakes’ and learning from them? Like a baby finding its feet; it will fall and bump, but after each fall comes not only a determination to try again but an evolving learning process to make the next attempt a step closer to its goal.

We are being re-born now, and it is time to have trust and faith in our own abilities to learn and to find our own ways forwards. This is not about isolation, but it is defining ourselves from within not without. Groups are a powerful way to manifest change and transformation, healing and love, but in order to find Truth, we need to go within our Selves and not define ourselves through the collective.

11.11.11.11.11 is a special moment, perhaps mainly because we decide it will be. This may sound twee or a little light-hearted, but it is not. At the end of the day, it is our intent that is the most important gift that we have. Intent and personal power are our guiding lights and are the forces in our lives that can transform, destroy and create. Imagine what we can do personally and collectively if we believe that we can. If we can make 11.11.11.11.11 special, then we can do anything!

Portals may open and our DNA may change, but perhaps the most significant things we can embrace is unity, self-awareness and the power of intent, for once we have these, then life can be truly wonderful...

Magnificence Rising

The time has come to stop procrastinating, and to start doing! Thinking about life is NOT the same as living it. Life is not a rehearsal, it is the real deal! We may like to think that we are preparing ourselves for the ultimate Nirvana and enlightenment, and this may be true, but what matters most is the present moment. In this moment we are neither controlled by the past or the future, we are in the now and this is where we need to consciously remain if we are to live more mindfully.

Planning for some future that may or may not happen, or waiting for that perfect moment or opportunity to come up and tap you on the shoulder is a good way to fritter away energy and focus. It is disempowering and disenchanting at the very least.

If you take a moment, stop and spend some time pondering the following:

If today were your last day on Earth, would you want to be doing what you are doing now? Would you be happy that you have lived your life to the full? Would you feel that you have made the most of every second to live in bliss? Have you lived the best life that you can live? Have you at least stepped towards your dreams? Have you played it safe or taken a chance on happiness? Have you listened to your heart and given it the freedom to sing? Have you honoured your Self?

So many questions, but where are the answers? The fact is of course, that we can all sit and think about these questions, but there comes a time when thinking simply is not enough anymore. Thinking or even feeling can give us clarity and vision, but it cannot drive us forward; we have to do that ourselves.

Making a choice or a decision can be so hard. Our heads and our hearts are so often in conflict. Our hearts may call us toward one path or dream but our heads are more concerned with paying the bills, surviving and getting through each day. Yet, surely too much head stuff can clutter and overwhelm the heart and can prove just as disruptive as no thinking at all! Balance is the name of the game.

Easy peasy then. If only!

How do we move through the fear and the worry in order to connect with what truly makes our hearts sing? How can we move from a place of fear to a place of knowing, wisdom and confidence?

It seems to boil down to attitude and belief.

Firstly, is the belief that ‘I am worth it’, an intent so strong when we truly believe it, that it oozes from our auras and from every cell of our Being. This is a belief that never waivers; it is a knowing, a power.

Secondly is the belief that ‘I have the power’. Another intent; a simple one, but one that creates freedom and opportunity. it empowers, enlightens and inspires us to realise the magnificence of who we are.

Thirdly is the belief that ‘my thoughts shape my life’, this is more of a realisation, but an important one, for once we realise that we have the power to shape and transform our lives simply by through our attitude, things get considerably more interesting! This is not about getting lost in thought though, it is about having a clear focus and vision, and having clear and well-defined thoughts. We need to know ourselves and we need clarity; for if we do not know ourselves, our dreams or our goals, then how are we to manifest them?!

Finally is the belief that ‘I am wonderful, I am magnificent’. Somewhat harder to say with belief or conviction, but why? We are all magnificent and incredible, and it is time to celebrate that.

Drifting along in life, scrimping and scraping is a choice. We can see money, prosperity and wealth as something ‘always out of our reach’ or we can realise our own value and begin to transform our lives from the inside out. Through knowing that we are worth it, that we do have the power and by accepting that our thoughts do shape our lives, we can begin to take back the controls and re-connect to our Selves.

It is time to cut out the worry and the fear, for these attract more of the same. It is time now to celebrate what we do have, and to know that with belief and determination, we can make every day magnificent and blissful. We can look in the mirror and not feel empty, hollow or lacking; we can look in the mirror and know that we are living and have lived the best life possible.

Life is not about reaching the end destination in pristine condition, unscathed, and without scars. Out of suffering, strength emerges, and whilst many of us have suffered and struggled, it is important to realise that this is a part of life and we can either feel like a victim or accept what’s done is done, the past is in the past. What matters now is the present!

It is time to celebrate these scars, to know that this is what makes us incredible. We are the sum of all of our components, warts and all, and it is time to embrace our Selves fully, openly, honestly and with love.

Khalil Gibran: “Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” (thanks Amanda!)

So, no more sitting on the fence waiting for something to happen, instead we need to have the courage and self-belief to step into the unknown, to let go of our fears and doubts, to believe and to realise that we have the power to make things happen. Life carries no guarantees, there is no ‘money back’ guarantee if things fall short of our hopes or expectations. We can suffer from buyers remorse or we can get up, dust ourselves off and get back on the horse once again.

Perhaps the most important thing to embrace is clarity. Without clarity we move along in a blur, in a haze of confusion and discombobulation. Yet clarity is quite hard to clarify, for we are human, and our hearts and our heads often have different agendas. Heart often strives for dreams and joy, the head seeks security and practicality.

The way to win this inner battle is to encourage the heart and the head to make peace, and to work together. Battles are exhausting, and what purpose do they serve other than to throw up more questions and turmoil? If we can get our heads and our hearts working together, then we can finally begin to de-clutter our lives, to focus and to embrace that all elusive clarity!

The key to life seems to be connected to inner harmony, if we are to re-awaken our souls’ full potential we need to step into the tranquillity within. This pool of tranquillity is where wisdom, belief, intent and abundance all reside. We now need to shift our perspective and realisation that this tranquillity is already within us and around us, we just have to use it now.

Take a breath and clear your mind. Connect to the power within you, let go of the clutter and allow your true purpose to be revealed. It is time for your heart to sing now; loudly and vibrantly from the roof tops with mirth, joy and bliss...