"When we find ourselves looking at the world and saying, 'There's nothing out there for me,' we should probably also look into our hearts and ask, 'If there's nothing out there, is there anything in here?' We need to examine our inner dialogue to discover where we might be blocking the conscious energy flow, then remove the ego, step out of the way, and let the fire of the soul shine through us." Deepak ChopraYesterday I shared a leisurely lunch at a favorite Japanese restaurant with a dear friend I see only occasionally these days ... yet with whom I feel a strong bond. We spoke of many things ... catching up ... sharing ... listening ... laughing ... reconnecting joyfully (which felt unexpected yet wonderful). Her eldest daughter (mother of 3 young children) died of breast cancer after a valiant fight less than a year ago leaving everyone deeply saddened. Among other news, M's youngest daughter shared recently that she's pregnant again ... due in June around her sister's birthday. What JOY!
In the midst of our conversation, I realized how seldom I perceive myself as graciously and lovingly others do. When they reflect the LIGHT in me, the "inner nag" deflects and/or automatically rejects the image ... often even before it registers consciously. And yet lately ... when I slow down enough to really listen & hear ... I'm learning to take these loving reflections in ... experience them fully ... and say thank you. M expressed gratitude for me in her life several times in the course of our time together ... assuring me that the gifts I share bless her and others. I'm still "processing" this.
I began this blog ten days ago (one day after I introduced myself on Small Reflections) with no expectations ... simply because I believed the time had come for me to share myself authentically with whoever happened along. The messages inviting & encouraging me to share (as in "publish" in a public forum) have long been present ... yet I hesitated for decades. Unexpected blessings arrive in the form of the many gracious souls I've met in the Blogosphere during past two weeks. If I'd known of (or even suspected) such richness existed ... I'd have jumped in sooner. I'm grateful for those who have left comments and sent emails ... sharing their stories ... offering encouragement ... adding their two cents. Thank you ... and blessings to you all.
3 comments:
Simply saying "thank you" to compliments is still one of the most awkward (and most rewarding) practices I can think of. (Deep down I really do looove to be adored - just gotta let that part of me shine through more often.)
Shine on, crazy diamond!!!
The listener within me acknowledges the listener within you. Your writing and sense of exploration in this new venue are so rich. Yeah You.
Thank you both for stopping by and leaving your comments. It's nice to know there's "an audience" out there. I'm remembering Sally Fields accepting her Oscar ... saying with gratitude, "You like me!"
I've written for an audience of one (myself) always ... and this is a totally new experience for me. It's good to finally share and be accepted as I am. In gratitude I send you ...
Hugs and blessings,
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