Because you can when you take a situation and break it down into smaller steps until it’s do-able.
That’s the secret.
You, my friendly blog reader, have the power to be really, truly effective.
You can make a difference in your own life as well as the lives of the people around you, but you have to realize that’s what you want in the first place. To make a difference. Your energy and influence are always at your disposal. The only difference is whether you’re using them for doing the work, or pouring them down the drain of worry.
If you’re looking for an excuse to not do something, you’ll always find it. If you want to put the responsibility of fixing problems onto someone else’s shoulders, then you get to be the victim. That’s the power and purpose of overwhelm.
Look at politicians. They use the power of overwhelm all the time because they don’t want to change anything. “The system is broken. The Government is the problem” they tell us, They talk about how screwed up everything is and then distract us with even more problems when in reality, they’re the ones who broke the system in the first place in order to exploit it. They’ve got the upper hand because they stole it.
If you look at it all at once, this situation looks impossible.
So what can you do about it? Where’s the simplest place to start?
The first step toward change is to acknowledge the need to change in the first place.
What if the possibility existed that you could be effective? (Because it does and you can be)
What would make you feel better, right now, this very minute? Take a deep breath and clear your mind. Relax your shoulders, put your feet flat on the ground and take good long look around at where you are right now.
You’re already exactly where you need to be in order to be accountable for your actions.
You have the power to feel strong, calm and confident.
You’ve just got to realize that’s what you’ve been looking for. The power to feel strong, calm and confident comes from within you. It’s already there, just waiting for you to use it.
Instead of giving in to the feeling of overwhelm and futility, try doing something. Something simple but effective.
For instance, pick up the phone and with your voice strong, calm and confident, call your politicians.
Use your power to let them know what you want. Tell them what you want to see, what you expect from them and that you’re looking forward to holding them accountable when it comes time to vote.
See how that feels.
Nice, huh!?
Breathe and take the next step.
Maybe you’ll want to start volunteering in your community.Or whatever it is that helps you feel strong, calm and confident. Effective and powerful.
The power is yours when you take it.
What else could you do that would make you feel really, really good?
What does a brighter future look like in your life?
I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below!
xoxo Pam
p.s. Next week we’ll talk about the power that comes from recognizing enjoyment.
p.p.s. I’m helping to pull together a Cash Mob for Willow Pointe in Ortonville. Although I had to convince the owner Grace that there are indeed ‘No strings attached.” I told her ” It’s just a chance for us to show our support and love for you and your business. Just be ready for us and be willing to accept our love and money. It’s something different, but it’s guaranteed to be fun”. We have 19 people signed up so far! The after-glow party is at MacPhee’s pub. We get to sit around and chat about how much fun it was and where we want to ‘Mob’ next. Come join in the fun if you can!!
We’re taking baby steps to fix the economy. Starting from right where we are. It’s do-able.
This song came on my iPod the other day as I was taking my walk around the lake with my Chocolate lab, Tootsie Roll.
I was carried away by the beat and the passion in the singers voice. Even though I don’t understand many of the words, (vamos a bailar means ‘let’s dance’, but that’s about all I know) the song put a spring in my step, a kick in my knickers and a boogie in my bunda!!
Thanks to this song my daily walk took on a whole new flavor and Boy was it spicy!!
My friendly blog reader, what song do you like to play to get you moving?
I’d love to read it in the comments below!!
Have a wonderful week.
Later this week I’ll write the next step in the Build your Confidence series…Recognize enjoyment, Please!
*Hello, my friendly blog reader!! Instead of writing the Inspirational word of the week, I’m writing about the Build your confidence series. The past two weeks I’ve written about the first two steps, 1. Desire a sense of possibility. And 2. Encourage compassion and accountability. You can click the links to read about them. Today we move on to the third step.*
Promote motivation, communication and education. (photo credit Google images)
Motivation (noun) providing an incentive to act.
Communication (noun) exchange of ideas, information, or feelings.
Education (noun) acquiring knowledge, developing the power to reason and preparing oneself for life.
The other day I was talking with a lady-friend about her frustration with her 17 year old daughter. They’re not getting along well (to say the least) and although both of them hate the situation, neither of them knows how to change it.
Unfortunately, this is not an unusual case. I’ve been there (although not with a 17 year old) and I’m sure you probably have at one time or another, as well! Many people live in situations where they’re terribly unhappy, but feel stuck and unable to change it. Although I’m not a religious person, I consider this Hell on Earth. To have the energy of life but not the ability or confidence to direct that energy in the ‘right’ direction.
This third step of the Build your confidence series directly relates to where you energy needs to be focused in order to get beyond the stuck pattern of frustration, anxiety and worry.
When we aim our energy toward motivating ourselves and the other people around us, we create an up-lifting feeling, and a healthy mood. One that encourages and supports a healthy spirit, instead of crushing it.
By communicating our best intentions and educating ourselves (and others) about what kind of life we hope to create, we create a path toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
Do you know what motivates you? Have you even thought about it? Do the people around you know what your best intentions are? What motivates them? (here’s a link to Dan Pink’s fascinating book Drive: The surprising truth about what motivates us. I HIGHLY recommend it!!)
I can’t tell you what motivates you. That’s not my place. (It’s Dan’s)
What I can do is tell you what motivates me.
Photo credit Brenda Timmermans
I want to use my energy to help people focus on the full enjoyment of all things. In order to do that, I write this blog, volunteer in my community, work with the Welcome Wagon, read Oracle cards, spend time with my lady-friends and walk 4 miles every day, smiling and waving to people on my trip around the lake. I aim to cultivate a healthy, happy home life so that my wonderful son will grow up to believe that he can have one as well. I enjoy my life and hope that in so doing, other people will see that it’s possible and be inspired to enjoy theirs as well.
“I believe in supreme gentleness, agenda-less curiosity, outrageous self-expression, and, most of all, that walking the path of kindness is the ultimate expression of intelligence. I believe in an open heart.
The power of kindness can give us the world we dream of living in. Much more than being “nice,” kindness is a skillful means of the highest order. To be truly kind, we have to be truly aware. We have to be able to see clearly. Then we can change the world.”
I’ve been following Susan Piver’s Open Heart Project for a few months now. Susan has helped me to ease into a regular meditation practice (although to be completely honest, I still have to really push myself to do the work of sitting still). Although it may sound counter-productive, I’ve actually become more productive since I’ve started sitting still more often, doing less and meditating. Giving myself time to truly relax my body and get centered has brought more clarity to my mind, which enables me to use my energy more wisely. Instead of freaking out because I have so much to do, meditating has allowed my brain and body a chance to ‘de-frag’ and get organized in order to become more efficient.
If you’re looking for something to help you feel more clear and concise with your thoughts and actions, take a moment to look at this video and then consider signing up for Susan’s Open Heart Project. It would be a gift to yourself, your life, as well as the people around you.
I do hope you enjoy this, my friendly blog reader!
I’ll be back later this week with the third step in the Build your Confidence series, promote motivation, communication and education.
The next step in the Build your Confidence series is to Encourage compassion and accountability.
Compassion is a feeling of deep sympathy, accompanied by a strong desire to alleviate suffering.
Accountability is to be responsible and answerable for your actions.
As always, the Universe is always trying to help me understand the lessons I most need to learn. This week, the lessons were all about practicing what I preach and encouraging compassion and accountability. I decided to adjust my posting schedule to Wednesdays and Fridays in order to accomodate my new work schedule. I did this because I was feeling overwhelmed and stressed out by trying to stick to the original Monday and Wednesday schedule.
Photo credit Google images
During the week, I thought to myself, “What possibility exists in this situation? “ To which I answered. “The possiblity exists that I can write my blog posts without feeling overwhelmed and stressed out.” Then I asked myself“What do I really want the most?” I answered,“Well, I want to write this Build your Confidence series to help my people (and myself) to feel better, stronger and more effective.My ultimate desire is to have a lasting, positive influence.” By simply changing the posting days, I’m now able to focus on taking care of my responsibilities during the week, and still finding enough time to create fun, helpful blog posts.
When I’m exhausted and frustrated, I start making excuses and doubting my ability to be effective. Something needs to change, and the only thing I truly have the ability to change is myself. I need to remember to be compassionate with myself, treat myself well, eat healthy, get exercise and plenty of sleep. Only then, when I’ve given myself enough time to take care of myself and my responsibilities, do I feel confident and more willing to serve my Captain and Crew. The truth is, I’m more confident because I AM more effective when I’m well-rested, well fed and exercised. We all are.
For example, I was cooking chicken breasts this past week. I couldn’t fit them all in the pan at once, so I cooked 3 and then set them aside to cook the other two. Once I was all done cooking, I went to cut into the meat and noticed that since they had been allowed to rest, the chicken breasts were very juicy and tender. Delish!
Photo credit by Kevin L. Williams and Lin Workman
God created us as a gift to the world, to help make the world a better place. We honor that gift by treating ourselves and others well. And by holding ourselves accountable, we enable to Universe to work through us, to help serve humanity.
So, whenever we take a moment to savor our lives, rest and recuperate, it’s a miracle.
Whenever we choose to get up and exercise instead of laying in front of the television, it’s a miracle.
Whenever we reach out to help someone else just because we can, it’s a miracle.
Whenever we adjust our schedule so that we can create something fun and beautiful, it’s a miracle.
It’s not up to me to tell God how to make the miracles happen, just to recognize them when they do.
What do you think, my friendly blog reader?
How does compassion and accountability help you feel more confident?
I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below!
xoxo Pam
p.s. I’ve had 2 people book Magic Wand classes this week!! Looks like March is getting filled up already! Feel free to contact me if you’re in the South-East Michigan area and interested in taking a class!!
p.p.s. I’m also looking for vendors for our CreekFest and BB&E events here in Ortonville, starting in June. If you, or someone you know makes stuff and would like to sell it at this event, please contact me at pambelding at g mail dot com.
Oh my heavens!! I just LOVE this song!! It always lifts my spirits and puts me into a good mood!
After my nasty headache last week, I needed a song to help remind me of how incredibly lucky I am. This song does the trick every single time!!
I was a big John Denver fan growing up, especially once I found out we shared the same birth date (February 3rd). His song “Sunshine ” will always hold a very special place in my heart. (Thanks for everything! I miss you John, xoxo)
It’s funny how this week’s post for the “Build your Confidence” series is going to be about promoting compassion and accountability. Right now, I really need to practice what I preach!
Because of my new work schedule, I’m going to have to adjust my posting schedule in order to make it fit better into my life.
Instead of Monday for the song of the week, I’ll be posting it on Wednesday.
For the Build your Confidence series or Inspirational word of the week , it’s going to be closer to Friday or Saturday.
Instead of writing the Inspirational word of the week, I will attempt to write about the first step toward building confidence.
It’s been rough week for me, my friendly blog reader. My husband was gone for a few days. My son had an unexpected snow day on Thursday. I worked a LOT and finished up the week with a stress/hormone induced migraine. I’ve had the headache for 3 days now. (The Universe is teaching me a lesson in humility, in order to give this post more truth and flavor. I appreciate it but Geez! ) Writing this post is a challenge, but that’s really what this whole “Building Your Confidence” series is about, how to face challenges.
I came up with this list a couple of winters ago when my darling husband was headed off to live in Israel for four months while my son and I stayed home in Michigan. The first week he was gone, I sat down and with a great deal of help from my Captain, wrote this list to help me stay focused on getting through the next 4 months.
Desire a sense of possibility.
Encourage compassion and accountability.
Promote motivation, communication and education.
Make it simple and small until it’s do-able.
Recognize enjoyment.
Get a rhythm.
Instead of letting the daily fears and doubts pull me off track, this list has helped give me a healthy way to direct my energies. Every day I see this list taped up over my desk as a reminder that a good life is a process, not a state of being. It’s a direction not a destination. Building confidence takes time and dedication. How I focus my energies every single day will eventually create my life. It’s up to me to decide what I really want and then go get it.
“Energy is the essence of life. Every day you decide how you’re going to use it by knowing what you want and what it takes to reach that goal, and by maintaining focus.” Oprah Winfrey
The first step starts with desire. Desire doesn’t sit in a corner waiting to be noticed. Like a hungry cat rubbing on your legs, desire gets noticed, Dammit!! Desire is consistent and persistent, a perfect platform upon which to build confidence. Whenever you feel you like your losing your confidence, come back to your desire. It’s the key to opening yourself up to the possibility of success.
What is it that you really, really want most of all?…….
You might be afraid to name it, for fear of being dissappointed.
Yeah, I get that. Truth it, that’s just your ego talking.
Your real true self wants you to be happy, peaceful and successful. Not fearful, frustrated and cynical. Try letting go of the fear, just for a moment.
Seriously, take a full minute and just do it…..let it go……
Open yourself up to desire a sense of the possiblity that you, YES YOU, can be happy peaceful and successful.
Although your ego will struggle at first, your true self will get stronger the more you open yourself up to its guidance.
Being confident doesn’t mean you’re never afraid. (hardly!) Confidence comes from the realization that there is a possibility to succeed.That sense of possibility changes your attitude from hope-less to hope-full. Steer into that hope-full desire as you lean toward the possibility for success. You don’t have to know exactly how it’s all going to work out. Life would be boring if you did.
Think about it. How often do you want to play tic-tac-toe? Unless your 4 years old, you’ve probably given up on it because it’s too easy. It’s boring.
Well, the Universe has given you the biggest, most fun puzzle of all time, your life!
So think about it, my friendly blog reader?
What do you want most of all?
I would LOVE to read your thoughts in the comments below
I’ll be back next week with the next step……encourage compassion and accountability.
xoxo Pam
p.s. Just ‘cuz I don’t know now, doesn’t mean I won’t know then….Just ‘cuz I don’t know how, doesn’t mean I won’t know when.
by Whitney Houston is the Inspirational song of the week.
Of course, by now you’ve heard of Whitney Houston’s passing. As I grew up listening to her music in the 80’s, I always marvelled at her power and presence. You could tell she never held anything back! I still really admire that!
I’ve always loved Whitney’s version of this song. Of course, Dolly Parton wrote it and sang it beautifully too, but Whitney brought real strength and passion to it. Every time I hear it, I get the goose bumps.
She had such an incredible talent. It was heart-breaking to see her succumb to drug addiction.
Like a firework exploding in the night sky, she was brilliant and then she was gone.
Rest in Peace, Whitney Houston.
Pam
p.s. Instead of writing about the Inspirational word of the week, I’m considering writing about the Build your Confidence class. Tune in later this week for the first step…..
Offer: (verb) 1. to give, make or promise 2. to present for acceptance or rejection 3. to propose for consideration 4. to present something as an act of worship or devotion. (noun) 1. a proposal or bid.
Oh my goodness, I’ve been very busy lately, my friendly blog reader!
When I accepted this job a couple of weeks ago, I knew it would offer me a chance to make money (which is a fantastic thing!!) and to have a lasting positive influence on my community. Although I realized this position would be a Stretch for me, I knew I was on the right track was when I read the mission of Welcome Wagon is…
“To help people find their way.”
That clinched it.
I’ve always considered myself the welcome wagon. Since I’ve moved something like 19 times, I know what itfeels like to be the new kid on the block. I know how good it feels to have someone reach out and offer help and guidance, to light the way and embrace you with open arms. So whenever we’re living out of the country, we invite everyone (at least the ex-patriates) on project to our place for holidays, or even just hanging out on Friday night. Whenever I see new neighbors, I always make a point to stop in and introduce myself and welcome then to the neighborhood, no matter what country I’m in. That’s graciousness.
When I accepted this job, I knew it offered not only money and influence, but also challenges.
For instance….
In order to get everything done at home and at work, I’ve had to really focus on and prioritize my time. The major housework (like vacuuming and dusting) has taken a back seat, and so has reading and commenting on other blogs. I’ll have to find some time over the weekend to make time for cleaning and social-media. The really good news is that my darling husband and wonderful son are offering to help out more now since I’m working. That’s kindness.
Since I needed new clothes for work, my lady-friend Molly (pictured on the left) offered to take me shopping and even helped me figure out what all I needed to build a career wardrobe. We spent 3 hours at the resale shop in Rochester! And since it was my birthday the day before, she even bought me lunch at the Rochester Mill! We had an absolute blast and I can’t thank her enough for her time and patience!! (Love you, Molly xoxooxxo !!) That’s generosity.
On Saturday evening, my Support Ho’s were kind enough to pull together a birthday celebration for me, complete with offerings of chocolate cake and presents!!! I’m such an incredibly blessed lady!!
As I’m learning my new job responsibilities, I’ve promised myself NOT to get mad, criticize or call myself names when I make a mistake. I’ve never done anything like direct marketing before, so it’s all new to me. Fortunately, my boss Lisa and new co-worker Barb are both very good at offering kudos and atta-girls, so that helps a lot. This new job is offering all of us a chance to stretch out and expand our horizons. Although we’re struggling, it’s in a good, growing way. That’s bravery.
Most importantly, in order for anything worthwhile to be truly meaningful, the offer of it has to be accepted and appreciated.
That’s where life happens.
So, what do you think, my friendly blog reader?
Have you had any offers lately?
What are you offering?
I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments below!
Again, I would LOVE to know what Light song you would suggest in the comments below!
I’ll be back later this week with the Inspirational word of the week!
Have a great week!
xoxo Pam
p.s. As an added bonus this week, I’ve been lucky enough to have Tina Robbins of Open Roads Coaching invite me to be a part of her self-love series. You can read my offering here http://openroadscoaching.com/how-becoming-a-mother-taught-me-to-love-myself.
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.
“Somebody once asked could I spare some change for gas, “I need to get myself away from this place“.
I said “Yep, what a concept. I could use a little fuel myself and we could all use a little change.”
This song started playing in my head yesterday morning, when I got up at 5am to let my dog out. (Freakin’ Sunday morning, and the dog just doesn’t understand sleeping in! Aaaarrgh!) It’s been on pretty much constant loop since then.
I’ve loved Smash Mouth for years. In fact they helped me get thru my divorce back in 1993 (banging my head to Let’s Rock!!!). I’ve just never really thought of them as ‘inspirational’ but I guess inspiration shows up wherever you’re looking for it!
Today was the first day of my new job. There was a lot to do and I still have a tremendous amount to learn. It’s going to be a busy week, as I try to fit my new career into my already busy life.
But as the song says “Only shooting stars break the mold.”
I hope you’re having a wonderful week, my friendly blog reader.
I’ll be back later this week with the Inspirational word of the week…..Bonus.
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.
Over the past week, I’ve been waking up in the morning with this song stuck in my head.
Well, not the whole song, just this part…
“You know you can’t please everyone, so you’ve got to please yourself.”
It’s a wonderful reminder as well as a very catchy tune.
As I was looking up the video on YouTube, I came across this one that tells the story behind the song. Take a moment and watch the video.
Cool, huh?!
I’m always interested in hearing how other people handle their trials and tribulations. I’m especially inspired to see them turn their pain into art. To take their personal tragedy and create a masterpiece!
There’s a miracle in that!
I hope you enjoy this song, my friendly blog reader.
Do you have one that reminds you of the choice to make the best of a bad situation?
I’d love to see it in the comments below!
Have a great week and I’ll be back later with 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.
My darling husband and I actually went out this past Saturday!! Yeah for Date night!!
We went to the Irish Tavern in Waterford, MI to watch our friend’s band play. It was great to see his face light up when he saw us watching from the back of the bar!
The band played some really good, rocking music, including this wonderful number. It was fantastic to feel the pulse of the music along with the groove of all the people.
This song especially just ROCKED!! As I looked it up this morning, I noticed it was written by ’Motown Hero’ Stevie Wonder! Detroit’s pride and joy! And today kicks off of the North American International Auto Show. It’s nice to see the Spirit of Detroit still moving people.
“Gonna keep on tryin’ til I reach the highest ground”
I hope the driving beat of this song helps to kick your week off into high gear!! (get it? Motown, Detroit, Motor City, Auto Show)
Have a wonderful day and I’ll be back later this week with the Inspirational word of the week.
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.”
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!!
I’ve been trying to think of a song for you, my friendly blog reader.
However, the only thing I can think of…… is….. silence.
I’ve been enjoying the quiet in the house since the end of Christmas vacation.
It’s given me a chance to contemplate where I am and what I’m planning on creating in the upcoming months.
And most importantly, it’s allowed me some time to rest my mind and clear a path for the Divine.
When there’s too much noise and distractions, I start to feel like I’m running behind, worried that I won’t be able to finish everything that needs to be done. Then I do get distracted and end up forgetting something and that sets me back even more. It’s a vicious cycle!!
Silence gives me a chance to sort out what’s really important while letting go of what’s not.
It seems quiet is becoming much more difficult to find these days, with televisions springing up everywhere you turn.
But, that’s all the more reason I really and truly appreciate the sound of silence.
I hope you find what you’re looking for this week, my friendly blog reader.
I’ll be back later this week with the Inspirational word of the week…….Benefit.
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.
Today is Monday, which means it’s time for the Inspirational song of the week……
Here’s an oldie but a goodie!
After celebrating with my family and friends over the past week, most especially on New Year’s Eve, I’m writing this post to reflect on all of the smiles and laughter we’ve shared over the past few days. I want remember the spirit of friendship and comraderie and let it soak into my memory. I want to use the energy of all that fun to fill up my soul.
That’s what celebrations are for. At least for me, anyway.
How about you, my friendly blog reader?
Did you enjoy your holiday celebrations?
I sincerely hope you did!
I hope you have a great week and I’ll be back later with the Inspirational word of the week…Appreciate!
It’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s no secret.
You can make a difference in your own life as well as the lives of the people around you, but you have to realize that’s what you want in the first place. To make a difference. Your energy and influence are always at your disposal. The only difference is whether you’re using them for doing the work, or pouring them down the drain of worry.
If you look at it all at once, this situation looks impossible.
You’ve just got to realize that’s what you’ve been looking for. The power to feel strong, calm and confident comes from within you. It’s already there, just waiting for you to use it.
See how that feels.
SHARE
