Day 10 Guidance (My Sacred Life)

I rise early ... begin my days writing in my journal while listening to music ... often opening a book at random ... seeing what catches my eye ... reflecting upon whatever words & images draw my attention ... and carrying it forth into my daily life. Renaissance Unity's Daily Email is the first I read once I turn on the computer ... and this morning's message began with this quote from Deepak Chopra. I pass it along today because examining my own "inner dialogue" and learning to get out of my own way to "let the fire of the soul shine" through me remains a challenge.

"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 Chopra

Yesterday 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.

What invitations call for YOUR attention today?