Current Inspiration

Light

is the Inspirational word of the week.

Light (noun) 1. something that makes things visible. 2. luminous energy. 3. radiance from a particular source.

(verb) 1. to ignite 2. to turn on or brighten 3. to illuminate.

(adjective) 1. bright; well-lighted 2. pale, or not deep in color.

Today is my birthday, my friendly blog reader!! I’ve been so busy this week with my new job, that I haven’t had a chance to write about the Inspirational word of the week until now. I’m so glad to be able to sit back and enjoy this time to write. It’s a gift I give to myself and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Last week I was absolutely blessed to be able to help out my lady-friend Mary Kalocsay. She needed some help cutting in and painting some walls on her job in a gorgeous home in Goodrich. I happen to be extremely proficient at painting, (I’ve painted every wall in my house, so I’ve had a lot of practice)  so I was more than willing to help her out. I spent 19 hours in 4 days painting light blue in 2 different rooms.  Benjamin Moore Ashley, Windchill and Steel Away. Light blue is the color of patience and understanding.  Although my body  was sore (boy, and how!) my mind and soul were just absolutely blissed out and zen from staring at these beautiful colors for so many hours at a time. My mind felt light and happy.

Just yesterday, on FaceBook I saw Lisa Firke post this quote from an interview with Bill Murray. “Do you ever feel pressure to keep things fun on set? ” to which he replied

“I feel that pressure in life. Actually I don’t feel like it’s a pressure, it’s sort of an obligation – not to entertain and be funny but to have a certain levity. I don’t mean in terms of just being jocular, I mean that there’s got to be a lightness in your way. There has to be a lightness; you have to be as light as you can be and not get weighed down and stuck in your emotion, stuck in your body, stuck in your head. You just want to always be trying to elevate somehow.”

That really spoke to me.

To be as light as you can be and not get weight down and stuck in your emotion, your body, your head.

To elevate.

I really needed that reminder this week. My new job is challenging, in a good way because I really like working with new people, but challenging, none the less. This quote reminded me to not take myself so seriously. To lighten up and enjoy the chance to try something new.

“It’s good to be doin’ what I’m supposed to be doin’ with the people I’m doin’ it with.”

I saw this prayer on FaceBook this morning and I just knew it was a message from the Divine……

“Dear angels, Thank you for helping me lighten up and see the many gifts that are before me. Please help me release any worries, and fill my heart with faith that everything is going exactly according to a wonderful Divine plan. I don’t have to know all the behind-the-scenes details of this agenda. I simply need to keep my heart open and joyful, and be willing to receive all the good that you bring to me each day.” Doreen Virtue

I hope you’ve enjoyed this post, my friendly blog reader.

I wish you a most wonderful weekend, filled with light, joy and happiness!

Have a marvelous weekend and I’ll be back on Monday with the Inspirational song of the week.

p.s. Steven Tyler sings……  It’s Amazing! In the blink of an eye you finally see the light.

Remember, the light at the end of the tunnel maybe You!”

Open

is the Inspirational word of the week.

Open (adjective) 1. accessible 2. free of obstructions 3. clear

“Keep an open mind. The influence of grace is often found in unexpected places.” Cheryl Richardson

I’ve had a most interesting day, my friendly blog reader, although it started out normal enough. I got Garrett off to school and then walked with Mary and Tootsie around the lake. It was while I has having coffee with my lady-friends (support Ho’s) at MJ’s house that I noticed things were definitely changing. For one thing, MJ is remodelling her kitchen so we all sat in her living room to drink coffee and chat. She told us she’s not only working on her house, but having Lasik done on her eyes this coming week! Fantastic news!! Then Brenda started talking about her meeting with the real estate agent to buy a building in downtown Ortonville so she can open up a coffee/computer cafe! Huzzah!!! Debbie filled us in on the Village’s plan to bring sewers into downtown! Wow!!! All very strange and wonderful stuff! Then I told them about my appointment to meet with my friend Lisa about an opportunity for a job. Yes, a real job! With the Welcome Wagon! How perfect for me, they all agreed!

So after coffee I went in to listen to Lisa tell me all about the position. She was just finishing up a phone call as I walked in the door, so the timing seemed perfect. As she talked, I could feel how passionate Lisa is about this job, helping new people feel welcome and giving businesses an opportunity to grow. As I listened to her, I paid close attention to my stomach and my shoulders. Usually when something isn’t quite right, my body will give me physical clues to help me decide. I felt calm and comfortable the whole time. Even when the paperwork seemed a little bit confusing, I thought to myself  ”I’ve done complicated things before. I can learn this“. This job seems like a really good fit. So when Lisa asked me “So what do you think?” I didn’t even hesitate. I told her “Sounds great! I’m in!“

So we shook hands on it, to make it official. Lisa beamed at me because she’s so excited to get me on board. And although I was feeling nervous about how I’m going to factor this new position into my life, I’m thrilled to be working again after all these years.

Of course there’s all sorts of things I could worry about, timing with Garrett’s school and karate, finding time to write and get my book published, getting dinner on the table, wearing work clothes and make-up all the time again. But I’m not going to let it stress me. This is a good opportunity and it really feels right. Of course it’s going to be a challenge, but that’s where growth happens. I’m open to that!

So, my friendly blog reader?

Are you noticing changes or opportunities?

Are you keeping yourself open to grace?

I’ve love to read your thoughts in the comments!

Have a wonderful week and I’ll be back on Monday with the Inspirational song of the week.

xoxo Pam

Choose

is the Inspirational word of the week …

Choose: (verb) 1. to select 2. to decide or prefer 3. to want; desire 4. to be inclined.

I’m often amazed at how the Inspirational word of the week seems to choose me. This week is no exception.

This weeks word started with a lady-friend pulling the Oracle card of Choice while a group of us all sat around the kitchen table of another friends house. She looked at it and remarked that it didn’t seem to make any sense to her. I didn’t want to seem over-bearing so I didn’t say anything at the time. Everyone had chosen their own card with their own message from Grace. (Mine said “Shine, Step into the light. You’re a gift to the world). As I put the cards away I glanced at what my lady-friend’s card said. “For every action there is a reaction. Choose wisely.” Well, that sure made sense to me!

Without going into detail, later that evening as I was sitting around the table, another couple of ladies inadvertently insulted me.  I had to quickly choose how I would react to it. At the time, I simply pretended it didn’t bother me (of course) and let the conversation move on to something less painful. However, later on, as I talked to my husband about what happened, I decided to use the really intense energy I felt from being hurt and ‘boomerang’ it into finishing my You’re the Boat project. It took me two full days and a dozen pin pricks, not to mention a really gnarly splinter, but I did it!!  Take a look...

I’m very pleased with how well it turned out and I’m especially proud of myself for finally getting it off of my dining room table!! Now I can set about getting pictures made for my book and workbook, as well as finishing up the writing of the book. It will be done before my birthday the beginning of next month. Pinky swear!

Most especially, I’m glad I chose to react to being hurt with an act of creativity, not destruction or anger. Neither of those reactions would have made me feel nearly as AWESOME as finishing my project did!

The next sign for the Inspirational word of the week came yesterday in a blog post from Dr. Lissa Rankin of Owning Pink. She wrote

“I want to help you - I really do - but I need to do it by filling myself up first. When I do, the abundant life force I wilI generate will spill over so others will benefit from it. When there’s a surplus of life force, everybody wins. If I let myself wind up depleted, everybody loses.”

Her powerful declaration to fill herself up first, felt to me like Moses’s tablets when he came down from the mountain. Absolute truth. I wish every single person on earth would make the effort to choose their own health and happiness over trying to please other people. Actually, when you think about it, taking care of yourself and filling yourself up first can save the world!  It’s that creation of healthy life force spilling over that heals everyone. So taking care of yourself really well doesn’t have to make you feel guilty! Look at it as your contribution to saving the world!  Huzzah!!

Last night, just before shutting off the computer for the day, I saw a lady-friend post a link to Eckhart Tolle’s ‘Uncourse‘. I’ve been fascinated with Eckhart Tolle, but never actually read any of his books, so I decided to look into the course. It’s free, so I figured I had nothing to lose and everything to gain. It was really easy to sign up for and within minutes I was looking at the first section of the course titled “Choices, Choices”.  I’ve already been through the first question and instead of writing more about it, I’m just going to let you, my friendly blog reader, choose whether you want to look into it for yourself, or not. However, I will offer you just this little nugget of wisdom from Mr. Tolle…..“All choices eventually bring you into wakefulness”. So whether you choose to look into it or not, you still have made a choice bringing you closer to wakefulness. Your welcome!

This morning, as I sat down to do my meditation with Susan Piver, her e-mail was titled “Choosing a path”. Now, the signs from the Universe are becoming just outrageous so instead of heading straight into the meditation, I chose to watch her video where she described why she chose the spiritual path of Tibetan Buddhism. She describes how she had the revelation of knowing that Buddhism was for her when her teacher said “The only possible spiritual path for a person is your own experience.”

“Well, of course!” she said. “That’s what I already believe!”

And I completely agree. Nobody else can save our souls. Our souls don’t need saving. They just need to grow.

Finally, as I was checking FaceBook this morning, I saw this quote from Marianne Williamson that summed it all up.

“Everyone you meet is either your crucifier or your savior, depending on what you choose them to be.”

Every single day we choose to grow or not. It’s just as simple as that.

The lessons we need to learn in order to grow are woven into the experiences we allow ourselves to have. When we trust Grace to guide us in the right direction, we learn to see how everything we’ve experienced has lead us to be exactly where we’re supposed to be. Right here. Right now.

So what do you think, my friendly blog reader?

What are you choosing? How have your choices enabled you to learn and grow?

I’d love to read what you think in the comments below.

Have a wonderful week, and I’ll be back next Monday with the Inspirational song of the week.

xoxo Pam

Benefit

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Benefit: (noun) 1. an advantage 2. a payment or gift, as one made to help someone. 3. an act of kindness; a good deed.

As I was writing last weeks post, I must admit, my friendly blog reader, that I was little bit nervous about putting my heart out on the table like I did.

However, once I finished, I realized that it was exactly what I needed to say. I was very pleased and in fact, the post got quite a few positive responses!  WooHoo!

That’s just one of many benefits of living an inspired life.

When doing something is scary, as long as it comes from your heart, you can be assured it will turn out well. You just have to be persistent and have faith in yourself.

So that’s what this post is about today……the benefits of living an inspired life. I’m not exactly sure how this post is going to turn out, but I can assure you that I’ll do my very best to let the energy of the Divine speak through me. That’s the best I have to offer.

Being inspired means you learn to trust the energy (the Universe, the Divine, the Source, the Force, God or Allah) that supports you to help yourself and others. It starts by asking for help and then most importantly accepting it when it comes. It may not be exactly what you expected, but help always come through. You finally begin to understand that you’re not alone. You’re loved and supported just for being who you are. You’re purpose on this planet, is to be happy, and by being happy and dedicated to expressing that happiness, you create the life you’ve always wanted. Everyone who see’s you and watches you live a happy, fulfilling life will be inspired by you.

You discover the power you need to follow your dreams and fulfill your purpose doesn’t come from you but through you.

Living an inspired life gives you a sense of relief that your needs will be met. Funny thing is, you start to realize that you need a lot less than you thought you did. You find more satisfaction in doing small, but significant things, like reaching out to help other people, making art (whatever your art is) and smiling and laughing with your family and friends. You can see how your energy benefits other people and then comes back to you. None of these things take money, but they all fill you up, way, way up. You no longer have to waste time trying to find someone else to give you what you need to be happy.

You become your own happiness.

The Divine creates opportunities for us to grow and stretch, to transform ourselves. That transformative process can be very uncomfortable. Think of a snake shedding it’s skin. It rubs against rocks and tree trunks to relieve the itching. There’s no sin in that. It’s just part of the process. Being inspired allows you the compassion and patience you need to not take that pain and discomfort personally. It’s just ‘growing pains’. Instead of focusing on the pain, you focus on the sweetness of life, the laughter of children, the warmth of a sunbeam and allow it to soothe your soul. You find ways to comfort yourself, like yoga, meditation, exercise, dancing, singing and laughter because you want to offer the best of yourself. You realize you get what you give.

Living an inspired life gives you the tools you need to get past the discomfort, to look past the doubts and resistance to see the bigger picture.

“Life is lived on the edge where every day we learn how to think bigger because we fly higher where we can see possibilities that persistence will yield.”

Tammy Vitale

The more you give yourself over to living an inspired life, the faster you’ll see the benefits. And your Crew will see the benefits too. They’ll see the sparkle in your eye and the bounce in your step. They’ll feel the benefit of your energy whenever you walk into a room and look forward to being around you. By allowing the energy of the Divine to flow through you, you’ll become more clear and effective. You’ll experience more laughter and less angst. You’ll grow into the person you always hoped you’d become. And that’s the best benefit of all!

What do you think, my friendly blog reader?

Do you live an inspired life? Would you like to?

I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below.

If you’re interested in life-coaching with me, or hosting a Current Inspiration party, feel free to e-mail me at pambelding at gmail dot com.

xoxo Pam

p.s. Do yourself a favor and go check out Tammy Vitale’s website . She’s a full-time artist and a phenomenal example of someone living an inspired life!!

Appreciate

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Appreciate: (verb) 1. to be thankful for 2. to value or regard highly 3. to be fully conscious or aware of 4. to increase in value

I got this message from God on FaceBook yesterday…

“Your talent is God’s gift to you. What you do with it is your gift back to God.”

As I was writing up the curriculum for my Feed your Soul class, one of the first things that came to me was the need to Appreciate your gifts.

I’m not talking about that sweater you got from your mother-in-law. (although it would be nice to say thank you). What I’m talking about is that special something that makes you stand out from everyone else. That thing that makes you tick, brings a spring to your step and a twinkle in your eye.  That gift from God that allows you to go out and be AWESOME!!

“If you are what you should be, you will set the world on fire.” St. Catherine of Siena

(Thanks to Desiree Adaway for sharing this quote on FaceBook!)

But it’s hard.

Because we don’t really want to stick out. We don’t want to have people point at us and say “Wow, you really think a lot of yourself, don’t you?!” We don’t want people to think we’re pushy, arrogant or narcissistic, so we hide our gifts. We dull down our shine in order to fit in. We down-play our awesome so we don’t make our friends and family uncomfortable.

Of course, when I say ‘we‘, I’m talking about me.

I know what my gifts are. I have a talent for observing people and situations and then explaining ideas in simple terms. If I had a nickel for every time I’ve heard someone tell me “Wow, that’s a really good analogy.” or “Yeah, that makes sense.” I could buy my husband a really nice dinner with a great bottle of wine! Plus tip!

I’m intuitive, kind, funny and compassionate with a strong desire to be a part of the solution to the problems on this planet.

When I get a chance to really stretch out and be completely myself ……. ‘OH Yeah! I feel like I could move mountains!!!

But (and there’s always a but) if I let  my little light shine too brightly, my friends and loved ones can be embarrassed and uncomfortable. If I’m in the wrong place around the wrong people (read ‘business dinner’) then I feel like I need to shrink back, to ‘dumb down’ so I don’t hurt anyones feelings.

I think, to really appreciate my gifts, I need to harness them. To give them a regular, steady outlet so that they don’t ‘leak out’ at inappropriate times. (Just like walking my dog. As long as she’s walked, she behaves wonderfully, but if she doesn’t get out, then she acts up.) I don’t want to force myself on anyone, because not everyone needs or wants to hear what I have to say. But some folks do. They really, really do.

That’s why I’ve decided to start offering life-coaching and my catalogue of classes. I’ve decided to become more open about the fact that I want to inspire people. There, I said it.

I want to inspire people.

I’ve been waking up in the mornings, literally bolting out of bed with the undeniable urge to coach, teach, reach out and help people.  I truly appreciate that energy. It’s my gift from God. In order to show my appreciation, I’d like to share that gift, my gift, with you. If you are one of the people who likes and needs some inspiration, then PLEASE get a hold of me. E-mail me at pambelding at gmail dot com. I can help you.

Or if it’s not you, then maybe someone you know could use a good, healthy dose of encouragement. Do us both a favor and send them my way.

I would sure appreciate it!!

So what do you think, my friendly blog reader?

Do you know of someone who could use some inspiration?

I’d love to hear what you think, either in the comments or by e-mail.

xoxo Pam

Aspiration

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Aspiration (noun) 1. a strong desire, longing or aim; ambition. 2. objective or inclination. 3. breath.

I chose this word because of something my dear friend Heidi wrote on FaceBook this morning…

“I have allergies to certain words, like, oh, the word ‘resolution,’ which in the next few days will be bandied about like that tired joke your uncle always tells while passing the mashed potatoes… I’ve been sensitive to the R-word for many years now, although I didn’t know it right away… I first suspected my allergy when I noticed how my insides tightened in response, as if they’d been washed on hot by mistake. These days I much prefer the word ‘aspiration.’ I especially love its softness and how just saying it implies my next breath.”

Just saying the word aspiration feels good. It implies energy without force. An offer of assistance without  judgment. A challenge without aggression or anger.

Aspirations open up the possibilities for growth and healing.

I’ve been thinking a lot about what I want to do in 2012. I, too, have ‘issues’ with resolutions. They always somehow imply that I have to fix myself, that I’m not good enough, or that I haven’t been trying hard enough. As I look back over 2011, I’ve noticed that I was working hard enough. In fact, quite a bit too hard sometimes. Instead of easing into the next steps of my business, I was trying to do too much all at once. I complicated things, piling more and more on my projects until it just felt overwhelming. (My poor Boat has just gotten bloated and needs to be thinned out. That’s another thing I need to do in 2012. Pare it down to the essential ideas and then just get it published.)

Notice

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Notice (noun) 1. an announcement or information about something impending 2. an observation or perception

(verb) 1. to pay attention or become conscious of 2. to perceive or become aware. 3. to mention or point out.

Last week, I noticed that only a few people responded to my offer of a free box of candy. This really surprised me. I was actually worried that I’d have to turn people down but, as it turned out, I only had 2 people accept my offer. When I talked to my husband about this, he responded, “Well, I read it, and I really liked it, but when it came time for me to think about the ways I make space in my life, I just couldn’t think of any.”

Which leads me to the word notice.

The main reason I wrote that post was to give people (including myself) a chance to notice how busy we get. To think about the space we need to create so that we can take care of ourselves and savor our lives.

I know I need to stop every once in a while to notice what it is that I really need. I want to be generous and serve from a full cup (cream rises to the top, right?) In order to give my best, I need to fill myself up before heading back out into the world of taking care of everyone else.

I’ve also noticed that it takes a supreme amount of time, effort and concentration to pay attention to what needs to be released in order to make room for what’s important. Letting go of things like worry, regret, shame, distrust, self-doubt, confusion, anger, frustration, expectations and excuses leaves an empty space.       Now What?!!

It’s uncomfortable, feeling that void. Remember when you’re a little kid and you lost a tooth? I’ll bet you couldn’t help but stick your tongue in there to feel how sensitive and open it was. (You know I did!!)

That openness reminds us of our vulnerability. It’s irritating, so reacting to cover it up or fill it in is human nature and completely understandable.

It’s easy to fill it up that void with something, anything. Think about it! We have cell phones, internet, television and neighborhood gossip, not to mention alcohol, drugs, pills and the list goes on! The distractions we’re bombarded with can seem endless.

However, if we don’t consciously think about what we’re filling ourselves up with, our lives and minds get cluttered and messy.

Just like in the “Boat” analogy. The Captain’s office (the mind) needs to be clear, with open path-ways in which the Captain can move around and find the necessary tools to chart the course.

As I was stirring candy last week, I started thinking about all of the different ways to make space in my day. That’s when I realized that I first needed to notice where it is that I need space.

Like for instance, if I’m feeling overwhelmed because my house is a mess, then clearing off the counter tops, and doing the dishes and laundry really helps give me a sense of relief.

If my schedule is crazy and I keep running out of time, then making a Crock-pot dinner totally helps. So does cleaning out my purse and my desk. That way I’m not wasting time looking for what I need.

Asking for help from my darling husband and wonderful son also helps to lighten my load. (And it makes them feel useful and appreciated, as long as I remember to thank them).

Back a few years ago, I was really struggling with trying to figure out what I wanted out of life, so I started letting go of toxic people and things. By giving up smoking and cutting off contact with a long-time ‘friend’, I found more space within myself to start feeling more confident and focused. When I gave up cigarettes and picked up a pencil, my entire life changed. And although at first, I felt guilty for dropping my ‘friend’, I eventually got over it, because really, I didn’t miss her or her condescending attitude.

It’s getting easier to notice what I need with more practice. and I’m feeling better now that I’m filling myself up with good stuff.

Taking my walk every day helps me feel healthy and strong while meditation helps me feel calm. Yoga, especially Yin Yoga at Soothe your Soul, has helped me feel more receptive and limber.

I hope this has helped you to notice where you can make some space in your life, my friendly blog reader.

I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below.

Have a wonderful week (and a fantastic Christmas/ Hanukkah) and I’ll be back next Monday with the Inspirational song of the week.

xoxo

Pam

p.s. Last week, my friend Rhiannon wrote this beautiful piece about Excellence versus Perfection.

“Excellence is the practice of doing your best all the time. Perfection is the practice of never being happy with what you’ve done.”

By letting go of perfection, you make room for excellence. Excellent!!!

Space

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Space (noun): 1. the unlimited realm in which all objects or events occur. 2. gap; blank between two things. 3. freedom to do what a person wishes to do for his or her own personal development.

I remember when I was about 10 or 11 years old, on Christmas morning after all of the presents had been opened, looking at my pile of gifts. I had gotten everything I had asked for that year, so there was quite a bit to carry into my room. Although it’s embarrassing to admit, I specifically remember thinking “Now where am I going to put all of this crap?”

Ugh.

All of those gifts, all of the anticipation and all of the joy turned to ‘crap’ because I didn’t think I had enough space to fit it all.

I’m sharing this with you, because I think it really illustrates how important space is to a happy, healthy, fulfilled life.

It’s not that I didn’t appreciate the gifts. I did. I just didn’t know where to put them. Eventually I put everything away, but only after I got rid of other stuff.

Have you ever thought about that, my friendly blog reader?

Making room for the stuff you really want, requires getting rid of the stuff you don’t?

In order to feel comfortable, we need ‘elbow room’ not just physically, but mentally too.

We need wide open spaces. Room to make the big mistakes.

It takes time and effort to concentrate on letting go of what is NOT important, in order to clear a path for what IS important. We need to be curious and mindful about what we want filling up our lives.

“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our reponse. In our response lies our growth and freedom.” Viktor E. Frankl

Have you ever seen a root-bound house plant? Take a look at this one…

Notice how the roots are all tightly bound together in the same shape as the pot? And the leaves are droopy and pale?  :(

That’s because the plant has out-grown the pot.

Now imagine our minds are like that pot, our souls are the plants and what we love is the soil. In order for our souls to grow and expand into full consciousness, we need to keep our minds open, giving our roots plenty of room to grow.

Erik Klein of www.wisdomheart.org explains it beautifully…

“Being rooted means being connected to your core values. Because core values are the source of passion and purpose in your life.

When you’re connected to and living your core values - your life has an intrinsic sense of meaning and purpose. Then, even if you’re physically tired, you’re not exhausted - you’re tired and happy. There’s a bone - deep satisfaction that comes from allowing the energy and inspiration of core values to move through you into the world.”

If I could give you anything this holiday season, my friendly blog reader, I would give you the space you need to really focus on what matters most to you.

I would remind you to stay rooted in your values and open to the flow of Divine energy. To savor your life and serve your people.

If I could, I would set up a play-date* with you so that we could create room in your life for what you really, truly love.

Because you deserve it! You deserve to be joyful and fulfilled. Not just now, at Christmas time, but all year long.

I hope you’re enjoying your holiday season!

I’ve got more than 50 boxes of candy to make over the next few days, so I’ll be standing at the stove, stirring and singing, thinking about all of the smiles of the happy people who will get to enjoy my home-made English toffee (made with pecans and semi-sweet chocolate) and Peanut Brittle!

As a special gift to you, my friendly blog reader, I am going to give away a box of candy to the first 5 people who e-mail me their name, address and a list of their top 5 favorite ways to make space in their lives! Send it to pambelding at gmail dot com.

Spreading joy, like honey on a biscuit!!

xoxo Pam

*p.s. I’m working on putting together a coaching program for folks who would be interested in working with me. If you’re one of them, please contact me at pambelding at gmail dot com , so we can set up our play-date!

p.p.s. “When things are at their darkest, pal, it’s a brave man that can kick back and party!”

Tools

The Inspirational word of the week is…

Tools (noun) 1. implements for performing mechanical operations. 2. things used as a means to accomplish a task or purpose.

As I was cooking our Thanksgiving meal the other day, I got to thinking about how lucky I am to have a really nice set of All-Clad pots and pans. I acquired them when I worked for Williams-Sonoma back before I had my son. Although I purchased a few pieces, a lot of them I earned from selling cookware. Once I sold a certain amount of cookware, I earned different pieces, like the grill pan, the griddle and my favorite, the 4 quart saute pan.

I’ve cooked hundreds, if not thousands of meals with these pots and pans. I’ve fed not only my family, but friends and neighbors a multitude of hot, delicious meals thanks to these wonderful tools. I’m so glad we didn’t sell them back a few years ago when we moved to Mexico.

Back in 2003, my darling husband had a project starting in Queretaro, Mexico. We were planning on selling the house anyway, so we sold it, the cars and most of our stuff. Unfortunately, this included lots of tools. We had collected quite a few when we remodeled the house, plus my husband had taken up wood-working.

It didn’t take us long to realize our mistake. Once we moved back to the U.S., we soon realized that we still needed most of those tools and they had only gotten more expensive. Every time we had to go back to the store to buy a tool, we were forced to face our mistake.

Now that it’s been a few years, we can laugh about it, but the lesson we learned is deeply ingrained.

Know the value of your tools.

Especially now, in the beginning of the twenty-first century, as we look into the unknown, we need to take a moment and concentrate on what tools we have at our disposal.

The technological age has changed everything. Life today doesn’t look anything like it did 100 years ago.

We have powers today that we couldn’t have even dreamed of before. We have tools that enable us to reach out and connect to others at lightening speed. Tools that give us the ability to share our ideas and products across the globe without ever leaving the comfort of our homes.

So, now the question becomes…..what do we want to offer? What will our tools allow us to do?

A) Do we rant about how hard it is to live in this new world?

B) Do we hide behind the fear of our own incompetence?

Or  C) Do we concentrate on giving the best we have to offer and focus on learning new ways to do it?

While A and B are both completely understandable, only C will get you anywhere.

Newspapers are said to be dinosaurs, ancient relics of the last century. What was once a tool that enabled the common man to connect with the outside world is now just considered ‘old news’.

Except when it’s not. Except when we realize that these newspapers are made up of people who’ve made it their job to reach out to their community and share it’s stories. Their desire to serve isn’t ‘old news’.  The only thing changing are the tools they use to do their jobs.

Take, for example, the Oakland Press. Their new CEO, John Paton, pledged Digital First when he took over in 2010. Mr. Paton realized in order for the paper to continue serving it’s community into the next century, they would need to embrace the digital age and everything that came with it. According to Karen Workman, Community Engagement Editor for the Oakland Press,

“There’s so many facets to digital first that make us better at journalism, period. We’re engaging our readers more through social networks, we’re breaking more news, we’re offering more news, we’re offering live coverage, etc. We’re still putting out a print product; we’re just not acting like it’s the only thing we know how to do. And clearly, we can do a whole lot more than just publish a newspaper.

Digital first is the standard we hold ourselves to. It’s crazy to think others are still tossing around that phrase like it’s some eccentric theory worth talking about, but not worthy as an action plan. In my mind, it’s the only action plan that can give media organizations a chance at surviving and succeeding in this digital era.”

Not only surviving, but succeeding.

That positive attitude is the most valuable tool in the box!!

I’m inspired to see Karen, and the rest of the people at the Oakland Press, embracing the new technology that allows them to do their job better and faster.

You and I are the lucky beneficiaries of their tenacity and courage! We can rest easier, knowing that our connection with our community is strong and now, thanks to Digital First,  becoming lightening fast!!

(I’m honored to have my website become a new addition to the Oakland Press. Soon they’ll be linking my site to the Life section of their on-line paper. As soon as I get the URL, I’ll share it with you, my friendly blog reader.)

When we choose to use our power to make a new path toward the future, it’s our tools that will help get us there.

Our tools give us leverage to grow beyond who are and allow us the opportunity to hope and dream.

Think about all of the tools you have in your tool box, my friendly blog reader.

Your car, your cell phone, your computer, your magic wand, as well as your eyes, your hands, your feet, your voice and, especially your money.

To quote Dolly Levi…

“Money is like manure; it’s not worth a thing unless it’s spread around encouraging young things to grow.”

Your attitude, your smile, and your joy of life are all at your disposal. All of the energy you have in a day is best spent creating your life.

Decide what kind of life you want to look back on and then go build it.

Remember, when you’re learning to use new tools and you get frustrated, (because you will!) at least you’ll know you’re doing your best to grow and stretch into who you’re going to become. Take a deep breath and keep trying. Your time and effort will pay off for you and everyone else around you. You can do it!!

What kind of life are you looking forward to?

What tools will you use to bring it toward you?

I would LOVE to read your thoughts in the comments below!

Have a wonderful week and I’ll be back next Monday with the Inspirational song of the week.

xoxo Pam

p.s. Now that Christmas in the Village is over, I’ll be able to get back to my normal posting schedule.

p.p.s. For those of you interested in how the Christmas in the Village went, here’s some video and the press release I wrote about it…. (I’m trying something new posting the video. I hope it works, but if not….well, I’ll keep trying!)

Dear Editor,

Well over a thousand people attended Christmas in the Village this past Saturday, starting with the first ever Jingle Bell run, where close to 50 people raced through town. It was great to see antique fire trucks and tractors join in the parade this year, too! For its’ second year, the Taste of Ortonville fed more than 150 people. The Fire Hall was filled shoppers, so the vendors were happy and the kid’s craft tables were occupied all day long. While they waited in line to see Santa and Mrs. Claus, kids and their parents enjoyed seeing a live reindeer and alpacas outside the Old Town Hall, while Sacred Grounds served coffee and hot-chocolate on the porch. The day finished off with caroling and the lighting of the Christmas tree by Village President, Wayne Wills and Village Manager, John Lyons.

Thanks to all of its’ sponsors, volunteers and supporters, Ortonville’s Christmas in the Village was a smashing success!

Sincerely,

Pam Belding

Ortonville DDA Promotions Chair

Grateful

Although I’m terribly sorry I missed posting yesterday and last week, I’m absolutely grateful for this opportunity to come back to you, my friendly blog reader, to share what’s been happening.

Over the past week, I have been incredibly overwhelmed blessed to have so much going on in my life.

I truly enjoyed spending the Thanksgiving holiday with my darling husband and wonderful son. It was just the three of us for dinner, but we had lots of friends come to visit us through-out the weekend. Garrett even had 2 sleep-overs! We played games, like Jenga and Apples to Apples, and on Saturday, we watched Michigan crush Ohio State! Go Big Blue!!!

For the past couple of months, I’ve also been helping to put together Christmas in the village, which is next Saturday from 2pm until 6pm. On Friday morning, I went out shopping with Debbie and Kora. They picked me up at 5am so we could be at Michael’s by 6am. They helped me pick up all of the supplies for the Kids crafts table in the Fire Hall. The kids will be making reindeer hand-puppets out of brown lunch bags, construction paper and jingle bells, as well as foam ornaments and Readers Digest christmas trees. Thanks to Lisa Dwyer at National Home Lending for sponsoring it and to the kids of the Brandon National Honors Society for volunteering to run it!  It’s great to have their help!!

Since Santa Claus and all the kids and parents waiting to see him need more room, we’re going to put them in the Old Town Hall and move all of the Santa’s Shop vendors into the Fire Hall this year. That means all of the 15 vendors plus the kids crafts are going to be in where the fire trucks usually sit. The floor is uneven because of the drains in the center, so we will use some shims to make sure everyone’s table sits flat. (Sitting down in the picture on the left is one of the vendors, Art Lawrence, who has been a vendor at CITV for the past few years. He’s not only talented, but sweet and funny!) Although GOB gymnastics was planning on doing their demonstration in the Fire hall as well, we’ve arranged for them to move into the Christ the Shepherd church right across the street. They’ll have a lot more room to show off their moves and it’ll be a lot less noisy for them and the folks watching them. Santa’s Shop opens at 2pm and the parade starts at 3pm. The parade runs down Mill Street and then ends at the Fire hall. With all of those people coming in at once, it’s sure to be exciting!  I’m planning on taking some video during the height of the madness fun so I can share it with you, my friendly blog reader.

Another thing that happened over the weekend was the article that came out in the newspaper about my involvement with Occupy Detroit, as well as a letter-to-the-editor (which isn’t available on-line but was printed in the paper, complete with MY photo of the Occupy Detroit site) that infuriated inspired me to write a response. (In the letter, a local resident insulted the people of the Occupy movement, quoted ‘research’ from the Wall Street Journal about the ‘truth’ behind the movement as well as other lies based on nothing more than what he’s heard from tv and radio).

Here’s the letter I spent 2 days crafting (with help from my girlfriend Carrol Solo! Thanks Honey!! xoxo)

Dear Editor,

I would like to thank the Citizen newspaper for giving credibility to the Occupy Movement by printing both the interview with me, and the letter to the editor from David Rowe of Atlas Township. I applaud Mr. Rowe for expressing his First Amendment right to freedom of speech, and I would like to point out that this same right protects the people of the Occupy Movement. Although I’m thrilled to see the Citizen and Mr. Rowe taking an interest in civic engagement, I would like to ask Mr. Rowe and the rest of the Citizen readers “What would be a better way to use your energy to make a positive difference in the lives of the people around you?” There is no question our country has problems. However, wasting time and energy spreading rumors and incendiary gossip only amplifies those problems. Obviously Mr. Rowe is passionate about his beliefs, but what our country really needs right now are people with a strong desire to find solutions as well as the determination to turn them into reality. The answer lies in speaking well and often of the people, opportunities and events within our community. “Are you ready to go out and find something good to look forward to and then share it with others?” Your children and grandchildren deserve your very best efforts. Give them a chance to see you building strong relationships within your community in order to protect their future. Allow them the pride of seeing you stand up to protect the principles this country was founded on, such as equality, freedom and economic justice. That’s what our country needs the most and that is what the Occupy Movement is really about.

I’ve submitted it to the Citizen, but now it’s up to them to decide whether they will publish it or not. I’ve done my best and at this point, that’s all I can do.

I’ve been trying to stay in the flow with everything I’ve shared with you, as well as the normal day to day, cooking, cleaning, shopping, and  writing. I’m working to stay balanced, keep my Boat* afloat and savor my life.

Taking my walks and doing Yin Yoga have definitely helped me stay focused, as well as remembering the struggles I’ve had in years past and the lessons they’ve taught me. I’m grateful for the chance to have made it through them and I appreciate everything they’ve shown me about myself and what I really want from this life.

I don’t expect to live an easy life. That would just be boring. Like playing tic-tac-toe. If there’s no challenge, there’s no fun! And I do so terribly want to have fun!!! When I finally grow old, I want to be able to look back at my life and know that I did my very best to enjoy my life and that I shared that joy with as many people as possible! Including and especially you, my friendly blog reader. xoxo

I hope you have enjoyed todays post!

In order to continue to offer you quality inspiration, I’ve decided to only post once a week until after the Holidays. I can’t tell you exactly when to expect it, but you can be assured that each post will be from my heart.

Have a fantastic week! And if you’re in the SouthEast Michigan area, I would LOVE to see you at the Christmas in the Village this Saturday from 2pm until 6pm! Pop into the Fire Hall and say Hi!!

xoxo Pam

*p.s. Speaking of the Boat, I’ve discovered 2 more parts to it!!

1. The Port-hole, which is something or someone that allows you to look out beyond yourself, as well as deep within. For example, becoming a parent, moving, changing careers, exercising, meditation, reading the Bible (or something like it), and writing a blog, just for starters.

2. The Buoy, which is something or someone that helps you get your bearings and lifts you up. For example, a trusted family member or friend, your favorite book, movie, song or a safe place.

Funny how these two things can sometimes be interchangeble!

I need to put these into the book and the workbook, as well as onto the project (which is sitting on my dining room table just waiting to be finished).  All in good time!