transitions

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Anybody other than me going through some major transitions and changes right now? Lord, I sure do hope I ain't the only one. While I welcome change and transition like I would welcome a beloved, lifelong friend, somehow I always seem to forget how difficult periods of alteration can be.  So as I sit smack dab in the middle-- well, hopefully, more like three quarters of the way into this leg of my life journey, I can see how I've grown and matured in some ways.  I've learned to take things like this in stride a bit better than before. I've always known and chosen to believe that no matter what happens, I am going to be alright. Nevertheless, there is still a small part of me that wants to throw a tantrum, pout it out, then sit down and have a real good cry.  Why? Because everything feels so raw.  I feel extremely vulnerable and fragile because I have no idea about the ultimate plan and the unfolding timeline of events.  I've done all I can, and now, I must trust the process.  And wait.  It feels like I'm standing in a corridor.  Just standing.  Out here.  Unable to go into a room yet.  You know, just hanging out in the hallway.  It's dark and it's awkward because I can hear the buzz of activity going on behind the doors that are around me-- even though I'm not currently immersed in any of those worlds.  I'm waiting for the light to come on, for a door to fly open so that I can walk in dancing. I've done all I know to do, so now I'm waiting: Learning patience.  Resting: Learning more about Self Care.  Playing: Learning what Play looks like to me now in this stage of Life.  Keeping my friends close and letting the drama and its minstrels fade into oblivion.  Even though it feels uncomfortable, I know I am in a really good space.  Transition seems hardest when I'm trying to look cool, calm, and in control of the ride; however, when I let go of my perceived route and just roll with the reoccurring recalculations of the GPS, then (and only then) does the light turn on in the hallway.  And in that illuminated moment, I realize that I've got this.  And by this, I mean that I can jam, dance, laugh, and sing because my only job right now is to rock out in the hallway, and then keep the party going when the right door swings open.  

we all have super powers... for reals

The other day on Facebook, someone that I barely know messaged me asking where they could hear my music.  I am in the process of copyrighting my original music (not to mention the ongoing saga that is life: dishes, family time, honey time, self time, home school, dinner, play time... I know you get the drift...) and in the midst of singing and speaking gigs that come to me by word of mouth, it just hadn't occurred to me to put myself out there like that until BAM!  Someone that I didn't know was a'asking.  So, I got my Google on and figured out how to tack some musical goodness onto my Facebook page, which got me to thinking how easy it is to hide our light under a bush for whatever reason.  Whatever the reason--whether it is intentional (you know, playing small to try and make others feel better about themselves), false humility (aka low self esteem) or whatever else that's been pulled from the bag of tricks-- it is wrong.  Wrong.  We are supposed to let our light shine and share our giftedness as a beacon of light, love and encouragement.  *Please note that shine is not synonymous with narcissism.*  It's more of a I shine, You shine, We all shine sort of thing.  That we share our love and passion (whatever it may be!) with others and then listen closely for theirs.  

Thank you, Laura & Tony

There is tremendous freedom in knowing and honoring ourselves and each other. It is a life long discovery, an evolutionary process of course, but as I look back over my life, I realize this: I repeatedly find myself using truth and the power of my voice.  Shushed repeatedly throughout school (Kindergarten to college, no lie!) and even at home, I realize now that this voicebox is my gift to the world.  My money maker.  Effortless and as easy as breathing because it is who I am.  And hate it or love it, I ain't going no where.  Neither are you.  See, we all have a special something to contribute to this mixing pot.  So I really want you to think about what you have to offer.  What consistent threads remain throughout the test of time in your life? Focus on the good (not the bad!) and herein you will find the secret, the truth, really, of who you were born to be.  I change and positively impact the world with the power of my voice by singing, writing and speaking authentic truth.  

That's my super power.  What's yours?

perspective

Since love is all about perspective, be willing to change your view from time to time.  
Find beauty in what appears mundane at first glance.  
See the sacred in the seemingly ordinary.  
Open your eyes to the good life.  
Your good life.  
Your life that is FULL of blessings, promise and hope.   

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"Even after all this time, the sun never says to the earth, "You owe me."  Look what happens with a love like that.  It lights the whole sky."  -Hafez, 14th century poet

Change your perspective...
Happy Valentine's Day!  

You are loved.  

XOXO 

Word with the Wise Wednesday: Vanessa Clark

1. What important life lessons have you learned so far?
I would say the most important thing has been that everything comes forth from your purpose in life.  Every decision, relationship and connection is tied to the plan for your life...  It is important to flow with and embrace the stages and seasons of change that come with life.  Once I was operating in my purpose as an individual and now I am in a season of purpose that includes my family.  

2. How is the world today different or similar to what it was like when you were a child?
The major change is not so much in the world as it is in me.  I have a different awareness.  There is an awakening that has occurred as I've matured and my outlook filters the way I see the world.  For me, it is all about my eyes being opened to God's plan and the depth of purpose in my life.  I was not aware of this as a child as much as I am now.  Regarding the world, what has been has always been.  There were bad things then and bad things now... good things and good things now.

3. What has been your hardest lesson to date?

To let go of things.  In order to attain serenity and peace, I have to give whatever "it" is up and trust that all will be taken care of.

4.  What is the one thing you want people to remember about you?
I was an example of light in the world.




Vanessa, affectionately called Vanes, is my home slice.  She's sweet like sugar...  Seriously, one of the sweetest and most genuine people I know.  We cheered together in college, traveled and worked together doing coaching and choreography and never got on each other's nerves.  (Call me on it if I'm lying, Vanes!) :)  Working with her was ideal because we balanced each other out so well.  We have many laughs and fun memories together.  She is one of the amigas who inspired my how to be a fab friend post.  We have laughed, cried and prayed together... still do!  We share our hopes, dreams, fears and encourage each other to overcome, let go, have faith, and keep moving forward.  She is a very loving and dedicated wife and mother.  You met her hubby last week in word with the wise wednesday.  Now you get to meet the awesomeness that is Vanes!  If you can't tell already, I think she's pretty darn fantastic.   






Let your light shine today and always.