Soaking Up Sunshine

Like the river hugs the mountainside
And evaporates into the sky
The magic spell for clouds to ride
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Following the whispering trees
Floating with the wild breeze
Nature putting me at ease
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Like an angel caring for her dove
In a golden heaven up above
Swimming in a sea of love
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Shadows casting a heavy glow
Silence shares what I must know
Darkness hugs me even though
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Skin as smooth as river rocks
Lover breaks down all the blocks
With my inner core now unlocked
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Laughter erupts from a broken cry
And you stare blankly still wondering why
You have no idea that deep inside
I'm soaking up sunshine in my heart

Trees

The sun is always peaking through the trees
And they're always smiling with their leaves
It's not as difficult as you think to see
If you look from the right point of view

These tall ancient gurus whisper in your ear
Akashic recollections, though silent they appear
It's not all that difficult to hear
If you're listening with your mind's eye in tune

These elder trees connect in so many ways
No matter where you roam, you see them everyday
We're often to busy to notice what they say
Stuck beneath a veil we can't see through

Colorful leaves are dancing with the wind
Look close and it will happen before the breeze begins
Fall in love with these amazing magicians
Meditate with them all afternoon

A World Spun Upside Down

A chill stirs among the blackened trees
As their colors change when night appears
But the spirits warmth is glowing from within
I can feel her energy coarsing through my skin
How the wind whips around me as my head's held up high
Nothing can make me fear if I have faith to touch the sky
A distortion of elements fills the darkned air
Fragments of memories dancing everywhere
Forgotten lullabies sung by the starlights
Blanket their children with a twinkle by midnight
I soon hear the voices that echo with no sound
It's easier to accept when the world's spun upside down
It's raining clouds and catastrophy; the pictures are all wet
We run away and try to hide, please tell me where you went
Dazzled by strangers in a room set like a show
They try to pick at my brain, what they want I do not know
Questions left unanswered, such a subconscious design
Trusting shadows that I fear for they too are One Divine

I AM PEACE

I am peace.
I am a rainbow of hope
Valiant and forever freeing
Liberating notions of ignorance
And concepts of jealousy
Destined for greatness
In a vast sea of beauty
In the depths of a spiritual upliftment
Where dominos rise up one by one
And side by side

I am light.
I am a shadow that's run its course
Brushing soot and ash off my shimmering coat
My inner flame burning hotter everyday
Through desolate lands I have wandered
A desert full of mirages and mirrors
Only to be drowned out by a penetrating river
Washing over me with rays from the sun

I am a poet.
I am my world of thoughts and words
Stifling negative vibrations
Sending out harmonious rhythms
Creating a universe out of song
Crowning our heroes and mending our foes
As we unite the separation through our expanding energy

The Roles of Illusion

We all play our little roles
As individuals, as a whole
We all attempt to be the best
But we're not different from the rest
With our arms closed, we cannot give
And without that love, we cannot live
Approach the winds with fists wide open
Only then will the Spirit have spoken
We are victims as much as we are thieves
In this web of illusion we weave
See the angels in your enemy
And face the demons in your tragedy
Broaden your mind to accept the night
Only knowing darkness will show you light
We all play our little parts
It's been this way right from the start
Learn your lessons through life's cruel eyes
And you'll see her beauty is nothing to despise
God's your teacher, He does not hate
Look in the mirror and you'll see His fate
Humble hearts will see through flesh
And feast their souls on the true Spirit
It binds us together with unity
But these roles we play refuse to see
So rise above your circumstance
And for once give love and peace a chance

My Words for the Day :)

I've forgotten where I've come from
Why it's been done
Why i can't run
I remember what it feels like
In the real life
What a lime light
Can you hear all of the crickets
In the distance
Screaming wisdom
Face the facts this isn't heaven
But you're forgiven
So stop your sinning
Carry with you all your glories
Light your torches
With its furies
Listen for the echoes of the ancients
Through resilience
Hear their silence
Careful with footsteps where you've trodden
See the gardens
Follow pardons
Realize the magic of the moment
Past and future
Non-existent
Freedom from all life's miseries
Makes you dizzy
But it's pretty
There's always a path forward
Just look inward
Under skin's guard
Soak your soul in newfound treasures
They are measured
Through adventures
In a sea of concrete objects
Floating suspects
There's no justice
The journey starts within your new mind
Climb the high vines
And erase time
The life we live is not a race
Nothing to chase
It's all just space

Happiness Quotes

Most people would rather be certain they're miserable, than risk being happy.
– Robert Anthony

Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
- Mahatma Gandhi

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise grows it under his feet.
- James Oppenheim

You will never be happy if you continue to search for what happiness consists of. You will never live if you are looking for the meaning of life.
- Albert Camus

What sunshine is to flowers, smiles are to humanity. These are but trifles, to be sure; but, scattered along life's pathway, the good they do is inconceivable.
– Joseph Addison

Just Some Random Amanda Words :)

When the caterpillar's giving you the thumbs up
Even when the leprechaun is out of luck
You're thinking life might be good enough
To spend some real time with the white dove
*****
Truth is these butterflies
Never want them to subside
Meet me at the end of this rhyme
And kiss me again 'cause it feels like the first time
*****
A blank canvas still contains the world
There's no need to add color or paint
Pause and reflect
Are you happy yet?
What are you waiting for?
It's always within your reach
*****
Namaste, for we are one
Though our journey's just begun
We set our sails and let life fly
With hands entangled and love in our eyes
Let the mystery unravel slow
We'll follow the winds wherever they blow

Baby, Let's Change the World

Mercilessly trying to rack my brain
Drawn to you for reasons I cannot explain
Help me change the world, put it back in place
With our love, hate we will erase

Don't look back
Don't turn around one second, don't think twice
Don't hold back
Remember life is all just how you roll the dice

Everything is Eden in the end
Find your own path back to her garden
Steady now, together take my hand
Water might be cold but babe we're jumping in

Don't look back
Don't turn around one second, don't think twice
Don't hold back
Remember life is all just how you roll the dice

It's puzzling me lately
How much this world is negativity
Our society without sobriety
There's no use for sovereignty
When your people lose faith in humanity
So baby change the world with me
Think how magical it would be

Baby let's change the world
Baby let's change the world
Change the world with me, now

Don't look back
Don't look toward the future, stay right here
Don't hold back
There's no time like the now to make peace appear
Don't look back
Don't turn around one second, don't think twice
Don't hold back
Remember life is all just how you roll the dice

It's just how you roll the dice
So don't hold back, let's change the world

It's a Great Day to Be Alive

Sometimes the right song comes on the radio at the perfect time, when you're ready to get fed up with everyone around you for being negative and grumpy and angry. It takes a lot out of you sometimes to remain positive and optimistic and really the hardest part is to not get annoyed with those people who can't see the glass half full. I was almost to my breaking point when this song came on the radio. I smiled, laughed, and thanked the cosmos for playing the tune for me. The words ring true, there's some hard times in the neighborhood, but why can't everyday be just this good?

Even with all the negativity around us, everyday CAN be as good as you want it to be, just choose happiness over sorrow. That's what I chose :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUWB2QDUDD8

I got rice cooking in the microwave
Got a 3-day beard I don't plan to shave
It's a goofy thing but I just gotta say, hey
I'm doing alright
Think I'll make me some homemade soup
Feeling pretty good and that's the truth
It's neither drink nor drug induced, no
I'm just doing alright

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shining when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neighborhood
But why can't everyday be just this good?

The Carpenter

Something a friend on Spiritual Forums shared with us :)

An elderly carpenter was ready to retire, so he told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife, enjoying his extended family. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.

The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The elderly carpenter said yes, but in time, it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end his dedicated career. When the carpenter finished his work, the employer came to inspect the house.

He handed the front door key to the carpenter and said, "This is your house, my gift to you."

The carpenter was shocked.

What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so much differently.

So, it is with us. We build our lives a day at a time, often putting less than our best into it. Then, with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we've built; if only we could do it over, we'd do it much differently. But we cannot go back.

You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board or erect a wall.

"Life is a do-it-yourself project," someone has said. Your attitudes and choices you make today build the "house" you live in tomorrow. Build it wisely.

Poem: It Is

It's in an itch that you've forgotten how to scratch
It's in the dark only when you can't seem to find a match
It's in the rich that live in poverty
Sometimes the price you pay is the act of being wealthy
It's in the hearts of all our shadowed thoughts
It's not in our schools because it can never be taught
It's in the place of evil where the spirit sings a song
So eerie and enchanting you'll start to sing along
It's in the juiciest bite of an invigorating pear
When it comes from Mother Nature, you're breathing in her air
It's in the attics of our lives where secrets fall asleep in dust
It's whispering your name through the wind with all its gust
It's in your mosques, churches, sanghas, chakras, temples
Doesn't matter where you are, the message is rather simple
It's in all living creatures, the spirits and the dead
We're different individuals sewn together with golden thread
It's there in the calm nights on the salty seas
And in the tornadoes, hurricanes and all of travesty
It's a slap across a youthful creamy face
It's a homesick lonely soldier's welcome home embrace
It's in the texture of colors that you have never seen
It's in the prickly nests of hallowed out oak trees
It's dead, long gone, forgotten and deceased
But it's come alive, it lives inside, lives in you, lives in me

Poem: Raindrops

Raindrops, Raindrops
Cry your heart out today
Cos I can see the rainbows coming your way

Raindrops, Raindrops
Keep on pouring down
In no time the sun will be coming back around

And she'll shine on us with her golden crown
After the raindrops have finished falling down
down, down

Don't worry dear
When the tears fall without grace
Cos I can see sunlight on your face

So rain on, rain on
Rain down on me
Shine on, shine on
In the sunlight I will see

So raindrops cry your heart out for me

The Spirit through Music and Lyrics

Alanis is a spiritual goddess. Her lyrics are so powerful. This is a part from her song "Citizen of the Planet"
The whole song is simply spectacular though
***
I am a citizen of the planet
My laws are all of attraction
My punishments are consequences
Separating from Source the original sin
I am a citizen of the planet
Democracy's kids are sovereign
Where the teachers are the sages
And pedestals filled with every parent
***

Phish's intro called Scents and Subtle Sounds off of their Undermind album. All about living in the moment, the One moment.
***
If you would only stop to live one moment a time
You would I think, be startled by the things that you would find
Like scents you've never noticed and many subtle sounds
Like colors in the landscape and textures of the town
Then the winds would lift you up into the sky above
And you'd be treated to a view of everything you loved
And if the moment passes, you should try it once again
For if you do it right you'll find the moment never ends
***

Of course, The Beatles, sending out the ultimate message, All You Need is Love
***
There's nothing you can do that can't be done
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game
It's easy

Nothing you can make that can't be made
No one you can save that can't be saved
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time
It's easy

Nothing you can know that isn't known
Nothing you can see that isn't shown
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be
It's easy

All you need is love
***

Happiness

Seize the moments of happiness, love and be loved! That is the only reality in the world, all else is folly.

LEO TOLSTOY, War and Peace

We can smile, breathe, walk, and eat our meals in a way that allows us to be in touch with the abundance of happiness that is available. We are very good at preparing to live, but not very good at living. We know how to sacrifice ten years for a diploma and we are willing to work very hard to get a job, a car, a house, and so on. But we have difficulty remembering that we are alive in the present moment, the only moment there is for us to be alive.

THICH NHAT HANH, Peace is Every Step

Those who possess that treasure which no thief can take away,
Which, though on suppliants freely spent, increaseth day by day,
The source of inward happiness which shall outlast the earth--
To them e'en kings should yield the palm, and own their higher worth.

BHARTRHARI, "The Praise of the Wise Man"

I Got a Case of the Grateful Mondays!! :)

I love this ease of mind
The way I just unwind
Driving with the windows down
Cherishing this peace I've found

So much to be grateful for
Opportunities knocking on the door
With every passing moment
Just drinking in this life

I feel like I'm top of the world today. Nothing could go wrong or knock me down. I'm always super nervous before job interviews, but today, even despite my chaotic morning beforehand, I felt so much at ease. I felt like I already had the job, that it didn't matter if I got it or not anyway, because just driving down the road, feeling the breeze whip me in the face, watching all the trees I passed smiling back at me, nothing else really mattered at the moment. And I keep finding all of these simple little moments to cherish. I keep feeling that each moment that carries me into the next one is absolutely.... zen! :)

I really do feel like I am right where I am supposed to be, and I'm not trying to control any of it anymore, I'm not trying to be in the driver's seat. I'm perfectly content on the passenger's side, just enjoying this wonderful ride of ups and downs.

The Forever Incomplete :)

Sometimes Alanis just does it for me, and I don't have to come up with my own words. This song is simple, but what a beautiful message. Enjoy the acoustic along with the lyrics :)







"Incomplete"

One day I'll find relief
I'll be arrived
And I'll be friend to my friends who know how to be friends
One day I'll be at peace
I'll be enlightened and I'll be married with children and maybe adopt
One day I will be healed
I will gather my wounds forge the end of tragic comedy

I have been running so sweaty my whole life
Urgent for a finish line
And I have been missing the rapture this whole time of being forever incomplete

One day my mind will retreat
And I'll know God
And I'll be constantly one with her night dusk and day
One day I'll be secure
Like the women I see on their thirtieth anniversaries

I have been running so sweaty my whole life
Urgent for a finish line
And I have been missing the rapture this whole time of being forever incomplete

Ever unfolding
Ever expanding
Ever adventurous
And torturous
And never done

One day I will speak freely
I'll be less afraid
And measured outside of my poems and lyrics and art
One day I will be faith-filled
I'll be trusting and spacious authentic and grounded and home

I have been running so sweaty my whole life
Urgent for a finish line
And I have been missing the rapture this whole time of being forever incomplete

POEM: Whole Again

A silent ecstasy
Blows effortlessly through the breeze
My feet crinkle upon dry leaves
Until I reach the salt less seas

A witness to admire
Stillness surrounds like wildfire
The shoreline's bubbling never tired
Clay stones offer a spot that's dryer

A sprinkling in the air
The raindrops tumble without a care
With nothing left but skin to bare
Running my fingers through wet hair

A dancing silhouette of me
Overlooking the salt less sea
Could I ever be that free
Just one chance to let it be

No words left unspoken
My feet let go and I start to grin
And when the waters pierce my skin
That's when I'll be whole again

POEM: Good Vibrations :)

It started in my fingertips

I felt them electrify

It’s pulsating through my veins

There’s a sparkle in my eye

Chubby cheeks a warm delight

My zealous smile revealing a dimple

It’s never been this hard to breathe

And yet it’s never been more simple

POEM: If it Never Rained

If it never rained

There wouldn’t be rainbows

No matter how bright the sun would shine

If it never rained

The flowers couldn’t bloom

And the grass would shrivel up and die

If it never rained

I’d never feel it kiss me

Pouring down my rosy cheeked face

If it never rained

We couldn’t go dancing

Spinning in circles in the open space

If it never rained

Would we appreciate it

When the sun kept on beating down

If it never rained

The darkness would frighten

Chasing us never making a sound

If it never rained

How the soul would cry

But the teardrops could not flow with ease

If it never rained

You’d think there’d be smiles

But the world would be filled with disease

If it never rained

The world would not turn

And the stars would explode in the night

If it never rained

This place we call home

Could never be happy even with the sun's light

POEM: The Orchestra

There’s an orchestra sounding in my brain

What put it there I can’t explain

The thunderous drumming shakes my skin

Though I taste the softness of the violin

It takes me to a magical place

Captivating time and space

An echo passing through my ears

Lips beaming and joyous tears

Lift me up higher and higher

Music blazing an enchanting fire

My soul breathes in the hot air

As I'm released from all I despair

I Saw it in Your Smile

How sweet The Spirit sings
A melody unlike the rest
I can feel it flow through my veins
Penetrating deep in my chest

And I saw it all in your smile
I saw it all in your smile
I just stopped for a while
And saw it all in your smile

The morning dew lingers nearby
Dripping off the trees above
I feel the warmth of the sun rising
To bless me with her rays of love

And I saw it all in your smile
I saw it all in your smile
I just stopped for a while
And saw it all in your smile

If you can stop the mindless drone
Of three thousand thoughts going on and on
And witness some of nature's treats
Pass them along to everyone you meet

Just start with a smile
Stop for a while
I saw it in your smile
And in your smile I will stay for a while :)

POEM- You Remind Me

You remind me of a warm summer's night
Sitting on a log in front of a roaring fire
Dirty sweatshirt, my hands in the pockets
And ashes blowing through the air
Find me, getting caught in my static hair

You remind me of the cool ocean breeze
Watching the waves crashing violently
But softening the shore with peace
With my toes drenched in the wet sand
Dancing under moonlight hand in hand

You remind me of a child's laugh
When they're playing in the grass
Knowing innocence always lasts
Something about their smile
Something I haven't seen in a while

You remind me of the perfect song
Echoing through all of my vibrations
Filling me with a magical essence
Even in dreams you sing it loud
As you dance among the clouds

You remind me of a golden world
Where love abounds and welcomes you home
Colors and aromas of a transcendence
And there's no paradox for paradise
Power's held in the kind and wise

You remind me of hope and faith
I hold one of each in both my hands
But who you are I have forgotten
You have no name and no face
And still you remind me, amazing grace

This is a Gift

Loving that I am over this ear infection and I can listen to music again :) what a blessing a non-earache could be. I have to remember that always, because this life is a gift! Florence & the Machine know what I'm talking about, great poetry and lyrics, Rabbit Heart (Raise it Up)

This is a gift
It comes with a price
Who is the lamb
And who is the knife?
Midas is king
And he holds me so tight
And turns me to gold
In the sunlight
This is a gift





And I'll share some of my own for today as I feel lots of love and happiness today :) Just grateful for everything. I'm not looking to the past today, nor am I looking forward. I'm pretty happy just being here, right now. That's something to be happy about all by itself 8-)
I call it, Singing Happy Surrender, lol

Singing in the wishing well
Filling it with lovely dreams
You are thinking you know better
But everything is as it seems

Happiness will never leave you
She stays with you through your tears
Choose to let her guide your heart
And chase away unpleasant fears

Surrendering to all tonight

Guide me to my sacred place

Allow my mind to fill with light

And angels kiss upon my face

More Random Haikus!!

Blankets of sunshine
Shower over me with love
And I feel just fine

Time will always heal
Though time itself isn't real
Clock's turning the wheel

When the lightening strikes
The sky turns a purple shade
Illuminates night

Red robin perches
The breeze blows the white flowers
Sounds, scents, scenes, nature.

Laughing playfully
Remember your inner peace
Creativity

Focus energy
Breathing deeply with intent
Manifesting YOU

Everything flows
Flows through you and flows through me
Oneness energy

Strength, show me courage
Happiness, show me the light
You, show me your heart

The wind stings my cheek
And sends a chill down my spine
Hello there, Spirit

A Conglomeration of Haikus :)

Zen
You are beautiful
Green grass tickling my toes
And your button nose


This is what I see
Mirrors staring back at me
Everyone I meet

Reckless abandon
Fade into my darkness love
Such sweet surrender

Earth's only spirit
Spinning wild, spinning freely
Spinning into be

Butterflies are free
Always flying with the wind
Soaring merrily

Mistaken for sweet
Convoluted chaos source
Mystery unravel

Bitten off too much
Twirling down the rabbit hole
Face to face I see

My darkness empowers
Through its fog, I see your face
Alive but not free

Solace you endow
Leaking in my deepest thoughts
A striking light force

Beautifully forgotten
Alone but not yet fragile
Fill her heart with hope

Underestimate
Chaos whispers in my ear
The mystery's me

Embrace the warm air
Let it settle around me
And help me to dream

The waves crash on shore
Beginning again anew
Becoming water

The light is rising
Dawn brings forth the sun again
And we are all one

Intoxicating
Breathing spirit into mind
I'm awakening

I am the flower
Growing up from the Earth's dirt
Sparkling in the sun

Patience is painful
Bittersweet and virtuous
It is worth the wait

Invisible man,
Break down the walls that bind you
Come, let me find you

Rivers to walk on
Or perhaps mountains to move
Ordinary life

Good Quotes for the Week

 

The basic difference between an ordinary man and a warrior is that the warrior takes everything as a challenge while an ordinary man takes everything as a blessing or a curse. - Don Juan

 Failure is not always a mistake, it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying. - B F. Skinner

 

God made everything out of nothing. But the nothingness shows through -Paul Valery

Did you ever notice how difficult it is to argue with someone who is not obsessed with being right? - Wayne W. Dyer 

 

It is simple. We are where we should be, doing what we should be doing. Otherwise we would be somewhere else, doing something else.

“The world doesn't owe you anything. It was here first.” ~ Mark Twain 

The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself -Henry Miller 

 

Being nice, patient, responsible people does not make us door mats. Choosing to be the best people possible, regardless how others choose to behave, means we are in control of ourselves rather than simply being the puppet of our irresponsible ego. Ego is NOT capable of choosing our 'best' behavior. So being in control of our ego to create life with positive purpose actually makes us the powerful ones.

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.
((((( Hafiz )))))
 

The Most Important Things I've Learned on my Spiritual Path

~ I don't have to be right. It doesn't matter who's right, it matters what's right.
~ My thoughts are not me. They encompass me, but they are not who I am. My mind is a perfect servant, but a lousy master. Although I live this life through my thoughts, I am so much more than that.
~ Judging is almost too easy, but sweet freedom really lies in just letting everything go.
~ We're never truly alone. If you're feeling lonely, go sit with the flowers or watch the trees waving their branches at you. They see you, they feel you, they smell you, they hear you. Don't forget The Spirit lives inside all of us and will comfort you anytime you experience loneliness.

Wonderful Quotes :)

“Everything that irritates us about others can lead us to an understanding of ourselves.” ~ Carl Gustav Jung

“It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that things are difficult.” – Seneca

“When you can’t change the direction of the wind – adjust your sails.” ~ H. Jackson Brown

“If the grass is greener on the other side, maybe that’s because you’re not taking good care of your grass.” – Anonymous

“Most of the shadows of life are caused by standing in our own sunshine.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

“When you judge another, you do not define them, you define yourself.” -Wayne Dyer

“All blame is a waste of time. No matter how much fault you find with another, and regardless of how much you blame him, it will not change you” ~ Wayne Dyer

“The people who are the hardest to love are the ones who need it the most.” – Peaceful Warrior

“You cannot teach a man anything; You can only help him find it within himself” – Galileo

“Confidence comes not from always being right but not fearing to be wrong.”

“The greatest mistake you can make in life is to be continually fearing you will make one.” – Elbert Hubbard

Quote for the Week: Inner Beauty

It's a kind of radiance. People who possess a true inner beauty, their eyes are a little brighter, their skin a little more dewy. They vibrate at a different frequency --Cameron Diaz

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Florence & the Machine

I saw these guys on So You Think You Can Dance this week, and let me just say, I became a fan instantly. Florence, the lead singer, has an amazing soul-filled voice, it's intoxicating. The drums, the harp, the whole ensemble was just spectacular. The video is also amazing, so I just had to share. Here is the youtube video, followed by the lyrics to the song that sent chills through my body the first time I heard it, Cosmic Love.





A falling star fell from your heart and landed in my eyes
I screamed aloud, as it tore through them, and now it's left me blind

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this twilight
In the shadow of your heart

And in the dark, I can hear your heartbeat
I tried to find the sound
But then it stopped, and I was in the darkness,
So darkness I became

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this twilight
In the shadow of your heart

I took the stars from my eyes, and then I made a map
And knew that somehow I could find my way back
Then I heard your heart beating, you were in the darkness too
So I stayed in the darkness with you

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this twilight
In the shadow of your heart

The stars, the moon, they have all been blown out
You left me in the dark
No dawn, no day, I'm always in this twilight
In the shadow of your heart

My Friend, written today by me :)

I walk down the hall but the hallway doesn’t end

I try to catch up to my disappearing friend

Running through this maze, it fills my mind with worry

Knowing I’ll one day wake up from this enchanting story

Screaming only helps the battle within oneself to stall

Speech is simply useless unless it’s for the good of all

A silent breath to gain composure, gently take it in

It echoes louder than my screams to help me find my friend

In this darkness she will be my ever illuminating light

But she is still disappearing no matter how hard I fight

Attempting to reach her only pushes her far away

She wants me to surrender, but I just want her to stay

I try to let go of my fears and surround myself with love

It only takes a second and a door opens up above

I climb through the opening and stand before a mirror

And now I see my friend again, it’s never been any clearer

She waves to me from the other side, showing me she cares

I only caught a glimpse but now I know she’s always there

Alanis Always Knows What to Say :)

Something so benign for me construed as cruelty
Such a difference between who I am and who you see

Conclusions you come to of me routinely incorrect
I don’t know who you’re talking to with such fucking disrespect

This shit’s making me crazy
The way you nullify what’s in my head
You say one thing do another
And argue that’s not what you did
Your way’s making me mental
How you filter as skewed interpret
I swear you won’t be happy til
I am bound in a straight jacket

Talking with you’s like talking to a sive that can’t hear me
You fight me tooth and nail to disavow what’s happening

Your resistance to a mirror I feel screaming from your body
One day I’ll introduce myself and you’ll see you’ve not yet met me

This shit’s making me crazy
The way you nullify what’s in my head
You say one thing do another
And argue that’s not what you did
Your way’s making me mental
How you filter as skewed interpret
I swear you won’t be happy til
I am bound in a straight jacket

Grand dissonance
The strings of my puppet are cut
The end of an era
Your discrediting’s lost my consent

Quotes of the Week

One must be fond of people and trust them if one is not to make a mess of life. --E.M. Forster

I've learned that it takes years to build up trust, and it only takes suspicion, not proof, to destroy it. --Unknown



All I can say tonight is, I am going to miss a good friend. I know in my heart I am a good, honest, loyal person, and those closest to me know it, and God of course knows it. So I mourn only for the loss of a friendship, which I thought may have had a chance. It is clear today too much anger and disillusions still resides in some. So I say goodbye, I wish you the best.

I Can't Tell You Why

There are times when you want to rewind
Bring back happier times
Wishing everything would fade away
Wishing things weren't what they are today
And then it all just hits you
Knocks you right off your feet
And you can't stop crying
And you don't feel like trying
You don't even know where the pain came from
All you know is you want don't want it to stay
But the tears just keep rolling down your face
Swollen cheeks and a tender gaze
It's all I have left to say
I thought I had everything figured out
But I guess I was wrong, here comes doubt
Wondering why the pain comes now
Where did the girl with the smile go?
Tears keep coming and I don't know why
I can't even tell you why I cry
I can't tell you why

A Chaos of Questions

It's darkness that I can't comprehend
Whether it's an enemy or a friend
When all is calm inside myself
Why does the world attack itself?
Why is shouting necessary?
Why can't there be harmony?
It echoes through my mind like a steel drum

The way is simple, tried and true
Why doesn't it work for you?
Why do I ache for another embrace
When I know it's still my face?
My ears cry out in agony
Can you do anything but scream?
Is it possible to see my side?
You look discouraged, but you haven't tried
And the silence in my mind comes alive

All these questions go unanswered
But somehow I already know the truth
Desire creates desire
And I harbor mine for peace
Intoxicated by the spirit
Drenched in her everlasting breath
But just out of her reach

Don't Forget

A prayer unanswered is still an answered prayer
A cutting rejection is still accepting fate
A wandering mind is not always confused
A precise decision can sometimes be too late

A minute can be longer than an hour
A year can be over in a day
I ask you to stop and smell the flowers
But one glance and it all slips away

Don't forget you're microscopic
Don't forget that you're a giant
Don't forget to practice morals
Don't forget to be defiant

Tattered rags can be fit for a king
If he was worthy enough to wear them
A quarter can be a million dollars
A skipping rock can be such a gem

Don't forget that you're not perfect
Don't forget to change everything
Don't forget to wash away worries
Don't forget to dance and sing

A silent smile or warm embrace
Can drown out ugliness and fears
A flighty woman or awkard son
Will still be wise over the years

Don't forget that we're a story
Don't forget to tell it right
Don't forget to fall sometimes
Don't forget to stand and fight

I'm Passing By

I'm just passing by
Breathing in temporary air
I'm just resting for a minute
Clearing my head of mundane fears
I'm basking in this glory
This beautiful heavenly home
Waiting for my time to come
Waiting for time to be undone
I'm just passing by 

   

I'm just passing by with light
Like the bird flying over the horizon
Or the silence that echoes in the still of night
And greets the dawning sun with dew
As dreams ruffle feathers across the globe
And we wake with a yawn to start anew
I'm just passing by with care
Leaping with ecstacy in the melting moments
Breathing in and out this bittersweet air
As it turns my soul into one of pure peace
Fills my loving heart with warmth
And caresses my skin with a gentle breeze

Become the Person You Want to Be

     

 

When I saw this quote today, it was as if my angels were slapping me in the face with an answer to a question. The question being, who am I?

Now, how many of us have pondered this question from time to time? In times of stress, confusion, or sorrow, we have asked ourselves this question. We have stood in the mirror of time and stared blankly into our minds, trying to find a taste of what it really means to be... me! But the truth is, we change... not from week to week, not even hour to hour. We change from moment to moment. It can happen all at once or gradually over time. The only truth to it is very simple. We will always keep changing.

So, what a waste of time we have spent! Some people quit their jobs to try and "find themselves" or start/end relationships with people. Many of us have pined over self help books or talked to a therapist to discover that hidden root where who we are will finally make sense. We will finally have all the answers about ourselves. And why shouldn't we? It's us for crying out loud. Why does it seem so difficult to understand OURSELVES??

Now we have the answers folks. Stop worrying about who you are, and take every moment as a special oppotunity to become more and more of the person that you have always dreamed you could be. Whether that be pursuing a career, a marriage and kids, hiking through the mountains, or floating down the stream of life and greeting whatever comes your way with a smile, be the essence of your own greatness. Don't worry about who you are. You are special! You have every moment, every breath, every blink of your eye to make your world exactly the way you want it. So go get it!!

Words to Live By

Every blade of grass has its ANGEL that bends over it and whispers, 'GROW, GROW.'  --The Talmud

"Worry never robs tomorrow of it's sorrow; it only saps today of it's strength" -- A.J. Cronin

"Never be bullied into silence. Never allow yourself to be made a victim. Accept no one's definition of your life; define yourself." -- Harvey Fierstein

"If we don't believe in freedom of expression for people we despise, we don't believe in it at all." -- Noam Chomsky

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time." --Sir John Lubbock

"I've been rather awed by the magic that Spirit choreographs... when I do more listening than talking...
more feeling than thinking...
more being than doing...
and more allowing than controlling...
i.e. SURRENDERING!"
--Carl Landsness

Women are Angels

Something cute I wanted to share for a laugh :)

A Kitten Came Home...

A couple days ago, one of the strays that my grandparent's feed brought home a tiny tot in his mouth. This cat was notorious for killing kittens (possibly accidental, possibly territorial) so we quickly scooped up the kitten and brought him inside. He couldn't have been more than five weeks, but I'm estimating.  He didn't cry, didn't scratch, didn't try to run away; he just shook... He could not stop shaking. It was as if he had been abducted and taken to another planet! Perhaps that is his reality, because I think he was born a stray. We live in the backwoods behind a pond, and there are a ton of stray cats that live in the woods and throughout the neighborhood. It's really difficult to figure out where the poor baby came from. He has definitely been traumatized and misses his family.

For the first day/night, all he did was hide. He would not come out; he would not eat. I've taken care of kittens before, bottle fed some and others I had the mama there; but this was the first that would not eat. He slept under my bed in the corner of the room the first night, and finally started to cry. He cried on and off all night. I had gotten him to eat some by that point, not enough, but I think the cries were more out of loneliness and fear.

The next day, I decided to socialize him. I scooped him up in a blanket that he could "hide" in, and it became his security and comfort. I sat and watched a movie with my grandmother and he slept on my lap inside his blanky. Since then, he has slept in the bed with me all night, still crying every now and then, and eating a little more each day. He adores me know, we have grown a strong bond in a short time. I'm just still concerned about his eating habits.

The Master Mind Parter's Prayer

Someone posted this on Spiritual Forums, and I just had to share this, as this prayer/mantra will stick with me for good I believe! :)

I am the place where God shines through, for that God and I are one, not two. He wants me where and as I am. I will not fret, nor will, nor plan, and if I am relaxed and free, God will work his purpose out through me.

3 Great Tips to Relieve Stress

These are my tried and true tips for helping to relieve some stress. I get massive headaches and physical illnesses from stress, so it's very important to me to find ways to cope with even the trivial daily stresses that life blesses us with :)

1. Nature is healing. Even to just sit in the grass and play with whatever is there, blades of glass, pinecones, rocks, just feeling them on your fingertips, feeling the sun's love shining down, and feeling the gentle breezes washing everything away, brings you to a calmer state of mind.

2. Remember a time when you were not stressed. One of my favorite truths about the universe is that everything is temporary. Everything comes and goes, rises, then comes to pass. What is stressful now won't seem so stressful later. Think back to a time where you felt less stressed. Remember that you will feel like that again. Just like a toothache, the pain eventually goes away. Learning to appreciate the "not stressful" times will make it easier to cope when stress creeps up.

3. Breathe. Decide that nothing is more important at the moment than breathing. Many people will say "I'm too busy to even stop and breathe!" Well, if you think there is something more important than breathing right now, stop breathing for a minute and see if you like that alternative. Remember to appreciate the in and out of the breath is a great calming technique. It helps you to be grateful for the present moment, even if that moment happens to be filled with worries and anxieties.

A Spiritual Journey

There's pages I have left to write
But I can't tell you those tonight
I won't stop til it comes true
There's still writing left to do

When the clouds begin to part

And light shines through to broken hearts
When silent peace brings us to tears
We'll feel what we have missed for years

I won't know until you do
I won't know til it comes true
The pages stare right back at me
Blank with impatient agony

But I don't hold it in my hands
I don't remember any plans
I'm as blind as those that see
Ignorance is so lucky

Because once you start you cannot quit
And with this pen in my hand I sit
Awaiting what is next to write
In this journey through the night

If I hadn't turned the page
If I'd left the book where it laid
I wouldn't have found the emptiness
I wouldn't have found the inner bliss

The empty pages told a story
I knew if I declined I would be sorry
The book was open, here I go
But what to write, I did not know

And so, there's pages left to write
But I can't tell you those tonight
I would share them if I knew
But your pages are up to you!

Surrender to Facebook!

Click below to check out and "like" my spiritual facebook page!!
Surrender to the Flow: Facebook Page :)

Quote of the Day

 

IN OURSELVES 

 PEACE

IN THE WORLD

 

.:Thich Nhat Hanh:.

 

Daily Affirmation

 The Earth is Eden. If we only give back to her as she has done for us, we will know peace and security and love. This is our heaven if only we treat it like it is. 

 Look ma the sun is shining on me
Taking my time to do as I please
Could you believe in heaven
If heaven was all you had
The sun is beaming, radiating
All the love we are creating

--Smashing Pumpkins

 Dr. Wayne Dyer

 Practice the Power of Intention
The power of intention is the power of love and receptivity. It asks nothing of anyone, it judges no one, and it encourages others to be free to be themselves. Remember: You were intended out of love, so you must be love in order to intend.

Poems from the Past

Found some of my old poetry, going back about three years. Figured I'd share it on my spiritual blog because I really like finding my own spiritualism come through in an old poem. I can learn something I wrote about myself three years ago, and it'll affect me in a whole new way than it did when I first wrote it. That is what is remarkable about consciousness ;)

Shuddering, she throws the window closed
As paranoia swings from the tree outside
It won't be sleeping next to her tonight
Under covers she won't hide.

While the world spins randomly around
She's taking in the scenery
Covered in sugar-coated mundane thoughts
Wondering who she ought to be.

Wondering who she ought to be.

-------------------

I lay here, exhausted

Awaiting the sandman to make his rounds

He does not haunt me, but lingers near
Keeping me from drifting off.

So I lay, satisfied
The day is done and the sun is dreaming
Starry skies bring forth questions and yearnings
But I never know the answer.

Which way, is the right way?
I once rhymed years ago and I thought I knew
The path less traveled, it's obvious
So why can't I pick up my feet?

Day to day, I wonder
Where my heart and mind are leading me
I seem to walk around aimlessly
My heart and mind tend to argue.

Rash decisions, dangerous
But maybe just once, it is something I need.
Robert Frost, said it best
If I listen, it could make a difference

if you could run away
if you could find a place
to bury sorrows permanently
to live in peace for eternity
where no one talks down to you
where everyone tells the truth
we'd all be different and the same
no outcasts no racial names
to have tears only flow joyfully
to have blood only spilled for the needy
help our neighbors like our brothers
love our kids, respect our mothers
if you could find a piece of eden
if you ran away to be forgiven
if this hope was untouched and new
could you take me with you?

------------------------------------------

The crescent moon lights up the purple sky

As she stands on the side of the road choking on cries

There's vomit on the sidewalk and tear stains on her shirt
She hides it all until it comes down to this with no comfort
Where she was heading home from isn't the concern on her mind
It's the way she's been treated and ignored while she's waiting for her time
She questions allowed "What do I want?" and "Where am I going?"
The answers cannot be found tonight, and she drives away not knowing.

Tears still form behind her eyes, but she's gained some composure
She'll crawl in bed tonight at home thankful for the day is over
Inside she's strong and fearless, and she'd never let them see
The way she cried outloud tonight showing no mercy
She's got to carry on if she's going to make it in this world
And while it seems so hard especially being a nineteen year old girl
She'll make it through, she's fallen before and always been okay
Happiness stares at her, but it's just out of her arms way
She'll crawl that mountain more than once to gain an inch or two
And greet each morning fresh, beginning again anew.

Spiritual Growth

Just a short list of what God is to me

God is

The sunshine streaming in my windows

The shade of a tall tree of pine

The chilly breeze on an autumn day

The humidity in the month of August

The waves crashing along the shorelines

The raindrops thundering on the rooftops

Pretty shiny things, and dusty forgotten junk

Every vibration, every dream, every moment

Every thought, every intention, every action

The tired mind and the busy bee

God is

Anything and everything you want Him to be

Everything that flows through you is Oneness energy

You Are Only In Control of 1 Person: YOU!

A wise man recently told me that I need to start opening up more about how I feel about things. I shouldn't let fear of what people think squash my ability to stand up for my beliefs and tell them to the world, even if the whole world thinks I'm crazy.

I always strive to tell the truth, but I have found out that I have a great deal of difficulty being honest about my feelings, not just with other people, but with myself as well. Sometimes the truth really hurts, and sometimes it may get taken personally, or someone may be offended by what I say. The important thing I have to remember is to say it from a place of loving. If it comes from a place of love, for oneself and/or others, and it isn't meant to cause harm but only bring truth, it is something to aim for. I just have to remember that not everyone "thinks" the same way I do. Experiences and beliefs take us each down our own path in life. Ultimately we are all on the same path, but every individual walks that path alone, experiencing things from their own personal perspective.

Some things that have gotten in the way of me being honest about my feelings:
1. I know what I am saying is most likely going to upset the other person
2. I know what I am saying is most likely going to anger the other person

The bottom line? I am only in control of one person: Me. I am responsible for my thoughts, intentions, actions, etc... and taking care of this body that I am very much a part of. But I am not in control of others. I can't control if they turn to sadness or anger by the words I say. My intentions behind them are only to bring about truth and understanding. Sometimes people get upset because they were hoping I will say what they want to hear. By not hearing the words they were "expecting," my words brought them suffering. Sometimes people get angry because what I am saying is something they believe too, somewhere deep down. But in their current state of mind, controlled by their ego, they don't want to hear the truth, so they become angry with my words, suffering  yet again.

This has caused me much pain for many years. I have often held my tongue to prevent others from having to suffer. But it causes me to suffer, and therefore I am not really helping anyone. By standing up for what I believe in my heart, and speaking from a place of love, I can accept myself a lot more when those people get upset with me. I have learned that it isn't really me who is upsetting them, but themselves. As long as I speak from a place of truth, love, and non-harming, I am taking care of myself so I can be better to help others. I will always remain sorry, though, that my words did bring about suffering, even if the suffering was out of my control.

"Enjoy your "self". Right here, right now. If you don't, why would anyone else?"

“Zen does not confuse spirituality with thinking about God while one is peeling potatoes. Zen spirituality is just to peel the potatoes.” Alan Watts 

  

"If we are not aware that we are happy, we are not really happy. When we have a toothache, we know that not having a toothache is a wonderful thing. But when we do not have a toothache, we are still not happy. A non-toothache is very pleasant. There are so many things that are enjoyable, but unless we practice mindfulness and learn to cherish these things, then we don't appreciate them."  Thich Nhat Hanh

 "To my mind, the idea that doing the dishes is unpleasant can occur only when you are not doing them. Once you are standing in front of the sink with your sleeves rolled up and your hands in warm water, it really is not so bad. I enjoy taking my time with each dish, being fully aware of the dish, the water, and each movement of my hands. I know that if I hurry in order to go and have a cup of tea, the time will be unpleasant and not worth living. That would be a pity, for each minute, each second of life is a miracle. The dishes themselves and the fact that I am here washing them are miracles! Washing the dishes is at the same time a means and an end that is, not only do we do the dishes in order to have clean dishes, we also do the dishes just to do the dishes, to live fully in each moment while washing them."  Thich Nhat Hanh

 “If you are still talking about what you did yesterday, you haven't done much today.”

"We seem to be going through a period of nostalgia, and everyone seems to think yesterday was better than today. I don't think it was, and I would advise you not to wait ten years before admitting today was great. If you're hung up on nostalgia, pretend today is yesterday and just go out and have one hell of a time." Art Buchwald

"Every morning is a fresh beginning. Every day is the world made new. Today is a new day. Today is my world made new. I have lived all my life up to this moment, to come to this day. This moment--this day--is as good as any moment in all eternity. I shall make of this day--each moment of this day--a heaven on earth. This is my day of opportunity."  Dan Custer

"One of the most tragic things I know about human nature is that all of us tend to put off living. We are all dreaming of some magical rose garden over the horizon - instead of enjoying the roses that are blooming outside our windows today."  Dale Carnegie

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”  Dalai Lama

 “As soon as we wish to be happier, we are no longer happy.”  Walter Landor

“Realize that this very body, with its aches and it pleasures… is exactly what we need to be fully human, fully awake, fully alive.” Pema Chodron

"As long as we have practiced neither concentration nor mindfulness, the ego takes itself for granted and remains its usual normal size, as big as the people around one will allow." Ayya Khema

"Don’t worry about what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive." Robert Thurman