CREATIVITY Transformation Magazine

1

2

Section Title

SPIRITUALITY 9 Reflections... Be Creative 10 Creativity, Beauty and the Law of Attraction 13 Practical Spirituality: Exactly What You Think 19 The Way It Is: Beware of the RACE Trap 24 Crystals & Gems Part 3: Semi-Precious Stones HEALTHY LIVING 17 Captain’s Compass: Preparing for Life Change TOOLS & TIPS 7 Connecting with Kryon 8 Creating the Soul’s Collage 12 Connecting with the Fairy Realm 15 Light, Love, Laughter: Creativity 16 Harnessing Your Creativity 26 Ask Dr. ZZ TRANSFORMATION 4 Ask and You Shall Create 20 A Skeptic’s Perspective of LOA 22 Motivation for Creation 27 Life Can Be Your Masterpiece INSPIRATION 6 Owning Our Unique Expression 14 Sacred Images, Sacred Messages 23 Creativity is in the Air 27 Holy Mole Cartoon 28 Positive Change: Beyond Either/Or Thinking

© Copyright 2012 Transformation Magazine. All rights reserved.

Artist Michael Bowen began painting Eternal Flow in 2003. The original is 3’ x 4’ painted in oil and glued concrete that forms the 3-dimensional rock. Michael dedicated the piece as “eternal” and continues to paint on the piece every five years as a way of visually showing his own conscious shift and evolution. In its current depiction there are eleven limited edition prints available for sale. As the original evolves, the fiveyear limited edition prints become one-of-kind snapshots in its current state.

Michael was born in Salt Lake City Utah in 1979, moved to Colorado at age six and studied art and design in Denver graduating in 2000. He currently lives and works in St Petersburg, FL with his wife, Ami Bowen. They are both highly skilled in art, photography and many other creative outlets and formed their company, Bowen Imagery, in 2001.

Limited edition Eternal Flow prints and more of their inspiring images can be seen at:

bowenimagery.com 3

Transformation

Awakening

An Apple Spiritually Enlightened Relationships Speaking Dr. with the Editor aZZ Day Ask

withD.Rev. Marla Sanderson Natalie Amsden With Carol Roberts, M.D. with MarciaBender Natalie, Publisher of Transformation Magazine, has worked with thousands of people seeking to live a life of purpose and genuine relationship with their true selves, others, and their world. She is the former Director of a counseling center for at risk teenagers and their parents. She is also a public speaker and leads workshops and retreats on Practical Spirituality, Finding Joy, Discovering Your Purpose, and Enlightened Relationships.

••••••••••••••••••

Ask and You Shall Create What is the difference between you and Joe, a homeless man on a bench who asks for change? Are you more blessed because you are a better person? No. Just because someone lives on the streets doesn’t make him a bad person. Are you being rewarded for all of the good things you’ve done and Joe is being punished? No. Joe has a great heart and started his life as a person with a job and a family and later found himself in circumstances that lead to a downward spiral. Then he became stuck. So, what’s the difference?

There are two distinctions between you and the destitute person on the street, and both are related to what you ask for in life and, therefore, what you create.

1.

What you ask life for that you want.

2.

What you ask life for that you don’t want.

Asking for what you want: We have all heard the biblical quote, “Ask and you shall receive.” However, few of us truly understand what this means.

The homeless person asks for change in a can, while you ask for a raise or a job. That is what you both want, and you both ask, and you both receive. The street dweller probably does not believe anyone would hire him, so he does not ask for a job and, of course, if he does not ask he’s not going to receive. He also probably assumes that people would say “no” if he asked for other things he wants and needs, such as a home, guidance, support, and money to sustain himself. As a result, he limits himself to asking for change in a can.

We are not immune from these self-limiting assumptions and doubts that lead us to ask for less than what we really want. You may ask for a raise but you probably limit how much you believe you can receive, so you end up asking for less than you want. You may ask for a job but may similarly limit your possibilities because you do not believe you can have the higher position, which is what you really want. Consequently, you ask for the “sure bet.”

If we do not ask, it is 100 percent certain that we will not have it.

4

We know this, yet somehow we still don’t ask. We’re often too afraid to hear “no,” and so we miss out on many opportunities. While you may not be sitting on a park bench begging for change, you probably still are limited because you do not fully understand the power of asking for what you want. Not only does it limit what you literally ask others for in life—it limits what you allow yourself to dream about as well. If what you truly desire seems unrealistic, impossible, or unlikely, you probably have readjusted your goals and dreams to what you feel is practical, logical, and not likely to fail. Mediocrity is easier to attain, after all (or so we believe). But mediocrity isn’t what you want, is it?

Asking for what you don’t want: The other side of the “asking coin” is that we are likely to ask for many, many things that we don’t want. Joe is homeless because he asked for it. “What?!” you may ask, “Why would anyone want to be a bum?” I said he asked for it—and that is not the same as wanting it. You may not want to hear this (but you asked for it by reading this article). You are in the circumstances you are in because you asked for them. “No!” you protest, “I didn’t ask for this!” You may not have wanted it but you did ask for it.

Asking = Thinking

Whether we are thinking about what we want or what we don’t want WE ARE ASKING for it.

And, why does this matter? Remember how earlier we said that if we don’t ask we are 100 percent certain of not receiving it? This is true, but what is even more important to understand is that if we DO ask we WILL receive it. Let’s use Joe as an example of receiving what we think about. The homeless man wanted stability, a job, and a home, but his limiting beliefs determined he could not have these things. As a result, he resigned himself to thinking about how to collect enough money for his next meal. He thought about needing change, asked for change, and received change. It might not have been what he really wanted, but it’s what he asked for. Since he asked for it with his thoughts, he took action and asked for it with his cup, and so he created the experience of receiving change.

We don’t always get what we want, but we always create what we ask for—eventually.

Lori dreamed of a career in management. She knew she’d be good at it, but when the position became available she didn’t apply for it because she didn’t feel her superiors liked her.

She applied for the secretary position in another department instead, and she received the secretary position.

Want—thought—ask—receive.

Have you ever asked for a position and not received it?

Ask yourself if you were suffering from a negative expectation like the homeless man.

You may have wanted the position but had doubts and

negative expectations. “I get nervous at interviews—I’m probably going to make a fool of myself and blow it.” “I have trouble getting along with people.” “I’m nervous that I won’t be able to fit in at this new job.” “I exaggerated on my resume regarding my computer skills—I hope they don’t think I’m a fraud.” “I’ve been turned down by everyone and probably won’t get this job either. I don’t want to get my hopes up.” All of these negative and contradictory thoughts are what kept you from getting the position. You may have wanted the job, but you were asking with these thoughts—and these thoughts are not going to create what you want.

“But what about the time I asked for the big position and really felt good about it, and wanted it and believed I could get it—only to be turned down?” In this situation you may have some residual or unconscious limiting thoughts that are getting in your way. For example, “I don’t really want to commute that far” and “I never get the jobs I really want” can sabotage a desire. The first example shows that unconsciously you really don’t want the job because you don’t want to drive that far. You resist the commuting and so may unconsciously sabotage the interview by being late. The second example shows residual thought energy left over from previous negative experiences with interviewing. You believe that you are a person who does not get the positions you want and therefore feel insecure. This shows through and does not inspire managers to believe in your competence.

In a positive way, you may be blocking the job because you have conflicting desires. For example, if what you truly desire is to be self-employed, but you are applying for the position because you feel you can’t have what you really want, you may not get the job because you are being pushed to go for your true desires.

We can look at it from a spiritual perspective. What you focus your attention (thoughts) on you will attract to your life (The Law of Attraction). In the example above, your thoughts and desires about self-employment were stronger than your desire for the job and the Universe is pushing you to take a different path, one that you have created with your true desires.

You can also look at this from a psychological perspective. If you believe something will happen (that you will bomb the interview) you will unconsciously do things that will cause it to happen (self-fulfilling prophecy) because in this situation you don’t actually want the job. Either way, you will create what you think and therefore ask for.

Many argue that there are other factors involved, that we don’t necessarily create EVERYTHING in our lives, and I agree. I acknowledge that the concepts of “ask and you shall receive,” “the Law of Attraction,” and the “self-fulfilling prophecy” do not explain all of life. However, one thing I can say is that in my life I can see very clearly how I have gotten what I have asked for, even if it wasn’t what I wanted. We need to allow ourselves to ask for, think about, and dream of what we truly desire in life. We can never create the life of our dreams if we aren’t willing to ask for it!

Put down the change can, step away from the bench, and ask yourself: What do you really want to create?

5

Inspiration part of ourselves. This is because the identification of our true unique expression doesn’t come from our minds, and in order to access a deeper, more intuitive place, we need to learn how to disengage from our mind’s endless chatter. In addition to utilizing our intuition, author Dan Sullivan, in his book, Unique Ability; Creating the Life You Want, came up with four ways to know when we’ve discovered our creative expression: 1) it’s an ability other people notice and value, 2) we love doing it and want to do it as much as possible, 3) it’s energizing for us and others around us, and 4) we keep getting better, never running out of possibilities for further improvement.

By Jeff Gitterman

Ever since I was a little kid, I’ve had this underlying sense that there was something specific in life I was supposed to be doing. Many people I meet tell me they feel the same way. But often they’re not sure exactly what it is. Or they have something they love to do, but don’t have much time or energy to devote to it because they’re too busy making a living.

As a financial advisor, I meet a lot of people who share the belief, often reinforced by their life experience, that being financially successful and doing what they love are somehow incompatible. We may see others who have a “gift” or talent that they love and are able to make money from it, but these individuals seem like the exception rather than the rule.

I’m not only convinced that we make a living with our unique expression, I think it’s arguably the only way we can truly be successful. It’s often estimated that the average adult will spend 80 percent of his waking life at work. If we’re spending all that time in a job we hate, one that drains our energy so much that we have hardly any left for the remaining 20 percent of our lives, then we could say that energetically we’re living beyond our means. Once work is over, we’ll find ourselves having very little left to give, and needing to get energy back from the people around us, particularly those we love.

The only way to start to find our way in the world is to take responsibility for the direction of our lives. It takes focus and commitment to find, develop, and own the particular expression that we have to contribute to this world. Most people will admit that they are their own worst enemy. For reasons we perhaps don’t fully (but hopefully someday will) understand, we judge and criticize ourselves more harshly than anyone else we probably know. And with all this self-criticism going on in our minds, it’s very difficult to show up in the world as the person we’re supposed to be.

The most important step in finding and owning our unique expression is to learn how to tap into the more intuitive

6

These observations echo the pioneering work of Dr. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, author of the best-selling Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience. Csikszentmihalyi defined and explored the concept of “flow”—as in “in the flow”—as an experience of optimal fulfillment and engagement, and identified some of the key characteristics of this state, including a feeling of complete immersion in an activity. Other characteristics of flow are: 1) a sense of being stretched but not overwhelmed, 2) a natural forgetting of all the things that bother people in everyday life, 3) a reduced awareness of the self as an entity separate from what is going on, 4) a feeling of being part of something greater, and 5) an experience of being carried along with the logic of the activity.

As we begin to explore our own creative potential, the insights of these thinkers can be helpful in illuminating the path forward. So many people are looking to the outside world to show them what they should be doing and to provide them with the energy to do it. Start right where you are and look within.

The most critical thing in life for any human being is to know what they want to be doing. Then you don’t have to figure out how to be happy because happiness is an illusion. The people who are truly happy are those who are so focused on what they’re doing that they don’t have time to think about whether they’re happy or not. Every morning when they wake up, they think they have something to contribute to the world and if they don’t do it, they’re simply going to burst. When we start focusing on what we want to express and contribute, we discover a source of limitless energy and inspiration that is far greater than possession of any external object.

•••••••••••••••

Jeff Gitterman is an award winning financial advisor and the founder and CEO of Gitterman & Associates Wealth Management, LLC. www.gawmllc.com. He is also the co-founder of Beyond Success, www.BeyondSuccessConsulting.com, a consulting firm that brings more holistic values to the world of business and finance. This article is adapted from his first book, Beyond Success: Redefining the Meaning of Prosperity, which was published by AMACOM, the publishing house of the American Management Association www. amacombooks.org.

Tools & Tips

Connecting with

By Lee Carroll Have you ever wondered if you’re a Lightworker or an “old soul?” Do you have questions about crop circles or life cycles? The entity Kryon, an interdimensional being who works with the ascended masters, may have the answers you are seeking. Channeled by Lee Carroll for the past 22 years, his words of wisdom are uplifting and positive. Below is a sample of some questions asked and answered through the years that may help you on your spiritual journey.

Question: My question is what is a Lightworker? Am I one?

Answer: We define Lightworker as any Human Being who has examined his own consciousness and has decided that there’s a divine part, and that it can be used to help both themselves and the earth. There’s no doctrine connected to this attribute or any organization around it.

Are you one? Let me ask you: Why would you ever write a question to a disembodied entity called Kryon, who very few believe exists, and who also claims to be an interdimensional worker from the Great Central Sun? That’s the kind of thing Lightworkers would do. [Smile].

Question: Dear Kryon: I have a question concerning the nature of the term “old soul.” You stated in one of the conferences that all time is now. That past, present, and future are all occurring at this moment. I happen to agree with that idea but, if that is the case, how could there be such a thing as an old soul, given that all of our lives, including this one, are occurring at the same moment? Wouldn’t that make us all old and new souls regardless of this lifetime, and therefore strip us of any need to place ourselves in a soul category? If one person is an “old” soul, and another a “new” soul, doesn’t that just imply separation and a soul caste system, instead of equality and unity? If you have any insight into this question, I’d appreciate it.

Answer: You already know the answer, and it’s semantics. On the other side of the veil, where all is seen as interdimensional, there’s no linear time. Therefore, you’re simply an eternal soul.

On your side of the veil, you’re an old soul, since linearity is the

way your life works.

As you read this, do you understand that you absolutely must see each word next to each other in a row to get the message? How limiting! Why not just take this paper and eat it so you have the whole message at the same time? The answer is obvious. You’re restricted in your perception, and it must come in a slow, limited, linear fashion and be done with your eyes and brain. This is why we must use linear terms to help you understand how this works in your reality. Further, are you aware that there’s no word in your language to indicate an object that has no beginning or end? If there were, we would have used it. So we say ancient or old to indicate wisdom and experience.

Those of you who wish to debate these kinds of things would be better to suppress the intellectual urge to discuss “chicken and egg” scenarios and instead go right for the gold: Become interdimensional so that the true answers make sense to you without ever asking about them on a piece of 2D paper.

Question: Dear Kryon: Would you please explain crop circles?

What is their origin? What is their importance to humanity? How can we interpret the symbology? Is it connected with interdimensionality? We know that some of the crop circles are hoaxes, but many are not, especially the ones that are so mathematically complex that they defy common explanation. The question is, how are these crop circles created, and by whom?

Answer: I give you only this for now: (1) Definitely interdimensional. (2) From Humans, but from a different time. (3) The symbology is 12-based math. The messages are to help with peace on Earth. (4) Yes, many are hoaxes.

Question: Dear Kryon: How long does a human entity with this kind of mission [a Light Worker] have to go through these in-andout lesson “cycles”? Is it possible to break this cycle somehow, and not have to return to lesson?

Answer: Do you see how completely this hides from you? Why would you wish to break a cycle of success? Why would you ask to be released from something as grand as what you came here for? All you see is the suffering and the cycle of apparent despair.

You feel that you’re a victim, never understanding that this is the role you’re playing in the grand play of Earth... and that you’re in your sweet spot. You don’t see the whole picture. Some of you even see it as punishment!

Blessed is the Human who knows he is loved and that what he’s doing is making a difference for the planet, no matter what is before him. This is the one who says, “Bring it on, for all is well with my soul. I am the engineer of my own existence.”

•••••••••••••••••

Lee Carroll/Kryon will be in Sarasota, FL, for a special current events program on Sunday, July 1. Enjoy an intensive five-hour lecture with LIVE Kryon Channeling. The event will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn, 8270 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, (across from SRQ Airport) from 1pm to 6:30pm. Doors open at noon. Cost: $95.

Reservations are recommended. Call 970-389-4200 to register or email kryonsarasota@kryon.com. Hosted by Janet McLaughlin (941-323-2167) and Adriana Jacobson (941-587-5300).

7

Tools & Tips

By Linda Tenney In these times of accelerated change, as cycles within cycles come to an end and new ones begin, uncertainty goes hand in hand with the many transitions and transformations we face. Since no one can predict the future with 100 percent certainty, it is difficult for many of us to see clearly the road ahead that awaits us. What will be gained, what will be lost, what will be relevant one year, two years, ten years from now?

What should we be working on within ourselves and adding to our “tool bags” for a very unpredictable future?

If our consciousness is expanding, and more of our inherent, heightened perceptive abilities are “coming online,” then we can probably be certain that at the very least, our imaginative faculties will play a huge part in the reality we co-create and experience in our future. Therefore, honing our abilities to intend, imagine, and intuit our visual perceptions will serve us well and we can look to tools such as SoulCollage® to create symbolic and metaphoric imagery that inspires our creativity, ignites imagination, and develops intuition.

This quote, attributed to Meister Eckhart, the 14th century Christian mystic, sums up the imaginative ability of the soul so eloquently:

insightful experience to “hear” these parts of ourselves speak!

The psycho-spiritual aspect of SoulCollage includes the concept of “the One and the Many”—Source and our individual Soul Essences expressing ourselves and our many sub-personalities (for example, the Inner Child, Inner Critic, the Artist, etc.) and archetypes (the Seeker, the Creator, the Great Mother, the Wise One, etc.).

To help categorize cards and prevent oneself from creating the “same” card over and over again (energetically, that is), Seena devised four suits: “When the soul wishes to experience something, • Council (archetypes) she throws an image of the experience before her • Committee (inner personality, and soul parts) and enters into her own image.”

• Community (actual people, pets, and other beings that have had a meaningful impact on us) This may be a more literal definition of the Universal Cre• Companions (power animals dwelling in our chakra ative Process than we think! energy centers).

SoulCollage is a psycho-spiritual framework and collage process that hones these creative and imaginative skills. In SoulThese cards all have light and shadow sides and Collage, which was developed by Seena B. Frost (soulcollage.com), speak to us. cards are created by cutting and pasting images from magazines, catalogs, greeting cards, brochures, etc. and melding them together to represent one energy or concept per card. As various images are Finding Guidance Many people benefit greatly from SoulCollage, and intuitively selected and arranged on mat board cards, we subconsciously express the voices and stories of our unique souls. This they create decks of numerous cards that they can then simple, yet powerful, technique awakens our creative inspiration consult in readings by asking open-ended questions and drawing cards randomly to see who has guidance for them and intuition.

Once a card is created, we journal or dialog out loud with at that time.

For example, one SoulCollage creator recently our card using the “I am One Who…” exercise, where we enter into the card image, and imagine speaking to our self as the person, be- shared a touching story about how her card “grew” in meaning, or energy of the card (a form of role-playing). It is an amazing, ing and brought comfort to a grieving friend. “Wendy” had

8

created a card featuring two young cancer patients (seen above) in a loving embrace, smiling broadly at one another, which she felt embodied her two well-loved brothers. She felt drawn to place one boy on a background of water, and the other on a background of rocks and autumn leaves. Unknown to her conscious self, she felt pulled to turn the rocky landscape on its side. In a workshop, I observed this as she was assembling the card and commented that it will be interesting to see what the card had to say about why it “chose” to be created that way.

When she spoke “as her card” in the group, this is what she said: “We are brothers. We are the ones who will never be separated, even by death. Our love for each other is from our birth, perhaps even before. Our world’s been turned on its side. We are sharing an experience but we are in different places on the journey. Still, we are loving. Perhaps if our world had not been turned, we would not be sharing this moment…of pure joy.”

Several weeks later, Wendy was sharing her SoulCollage experience and her card with a friend whose husband was recently diagnosed with terminal cancer. When she shared her card’s message, her friend experienced a profound emotional release. Within her tears and sorrow, she realized they, too,

were in different places on their journeys, but it was okay to still feel and experience love and joy with her dying husband.

In a later spontaneous art exercise, Wendy’s own brother emerged in a poem. She pulled out her SoulCollage card, and this time saw in the image how close she had been to him when they were very young and that their shared world had been “turned on its side” by parental alcoholism. She wept, remembering the love between herself and her brother, with whom she has made contact just in time for his 60th birthday.

Creating SoulCollage cards can be a relaxing, healing, creative, and meditative experience that draws us into the process to co-create with our soul. Our cards then introduce themselves to us and impart their sage wisdom, and we can consult with them to help guide our lives as we use our imaginative abilities to co-create our new world.

•••••••••••••••••

Linda Tenney is a SoulCollage® workshop facilitator, intuitive tarot consultant and teacher, and spiritual coach. For other workshops, SoulCollage events, or private consultations, you can reach Linda through The CreativiTree Center site at CreativiTreeCenter.com or email Linda@CreativiTreeCenter.com.

Spirituality most of what we do. Unfortunately, as we go through our life we tend to be pulled away from our creativity. We no longer allow ourselves the freedom to express or explore our desire to be creative.

No matter how creative we are, or think we are not, it is part of what we are designed to do. As a dear friend Keith Burnson says, “We are created to create.”

Ricky Roberts III is the author of three books, an internet-radio host, youth advocate, inspirational speaker, and founder of YOU ARE VALUED, an organization devoted to promoting the value of the individual. His volunteer work includes Life Rolls On – a surfing program for individuals with spinal cord injuries and Surfing for Autism – a surfing program for individuals and families affected by autism. Ricky resides in St. Petersburg, Florida with his wife and their two dogs. www.rickyrobertsiii.com

•••••••••••••••••• Be CREATIVE!

As young people we give ourselves the freedom to express our creative spirit. We make houses out of cardboard boxes, masks out of paper bags, color with out fear of what others think, and sing our hearts out when no one is looking. Simply put, we allow the creative spirit in who we are to be revealed in

Despite how long it has been or how much we try to ignore the creative nature of our existence, it is always yearning to be explored.

There is no secret that it takes much effort to sustain ?ourselves?in the society in which we live. However, regardless of how crazy life may seem, or how busy we get, we must give our creative spirit the time to express itself, always.

Give yourself the freedom to be creative. Use your imagination, color, play, and dream. There is no right or wrong to being creative. Being creative is not only restricted to doing art per say, it actually has no restrictions at all. Let being creative define its own meaning to you. It is in you, it is in me, it is within us all. The ability to be creative has and will never leave you, even if you have not seen it since you were a kid. Be creative today!

9

Spirituality •

and the law of

…you know firsthand what The Power of BEAUTY can do for you!

Perhaps it is because, as Keats would say, “Beauty is truth, truth beauty,” there is a deep place within each of us that resonates with the essence of beauty.

Beauty IS our natural state of being, which is why it feels SOOO good to experience it.

By Terez Hartmann

“Life imitating art imitating life—and the wheel goes ‘round…”

“Reel Life”—Terez Hartmann Many people often think of creativity in terms of crafting works of art or music, but regardless of what we do for a living or for a hobby, every life is a work of art and every living, breathing human being is indeed creative, simply by virtue of being alive! Each of us is what I call a CEO which means: Creator = We are the ones who create our life experience.

Experiencer = We are the ones who experience what we have been creating.

Opener = We are the ones who open the door to ALLOW our creations of choice to manifest—or not.

When you remember how much creative power you hold and that the Law of Attraction responds to whatever you are focusing upon (through your thoughts, words, or actions), choosing to deliberately tune in to or create a thing of BEAUTY gives YOU the gift of enjoying your journey, thereby aligning with your idea of “fabulousity,” and puts a song out into the world that has the power to uplift anyone with ears to hear!

Beauty and Allowing Success: Our natural state of being

“Beholding beauty with the eye of the mind, he will be enabled to bring forth, not images of beauty, but realities (for he has hold not of an image, but of a reality), and bringing forth and nourishing true virtue to become the friend of God and be immortal, if mortal man may...”—Plato If you have ever lost yourself in a magnificent: • sight, such as gazing upon a waterfall, red rocks or mountains, a mesmerizing photograph or painting, looking into your baby’s eyes • sound, like the pure tones of a chime, a magnificent piece of music, the laughter of someone you love or thunderous applause • smell, orange blossoms in full bloom, fresh popcorn, your favorite cologne or perfume worn by your lover • taste, insert favorite food/beverages here

10

tactile experience, feeling silk against your skin, a plush warm blanket, a nice soothing hot or a refreshing cool shower

When we recognize the beauty in a thought, thing, or experience (therefore eliciting positive emotion), we see the world through the eyes of our Source. When in this state, we are in mac-daddy Allowing mode and we stretch out a big, fat red carpet for our dreams and intentions to saunter up to us in grand fashion!

• • •

• • •

Beauty is a place from which inspiration is born.

Beauty is an “E-Ticket” or “Fast-Pass” to a destination of joy.

Beauty has magnetic power to attract more of the same on multiple fronts and draw it forth from within.

Beauty is a gateway to The Power of PRESENCE. Beauty is who we are and the true nature of all things.

As Forrest Gump might say, “Beauty is as beauty does.”

Invite The Power of BEAUTY by focusing on it throughout the day.

Have you ever noticed that the more you talk about or notice things, the more pronounced they become in your life? Sometimes while in the middle of a major life change, spending time with people who can

be challenging, or driving through a run-down section of town, it is all too easy for your eyes and ears to focus on the shadows of life. In contrast, when you stop to allow yourself to be more aware in these moments and make the decision to look for beauty, you break the spell of the shadows and start inviting and experiencing more and more light. When it comes to creating, experiencing, and opening yourself up to the beautiful things in life, focus is everything and NOW is when you Allow. The more you focus on beauty, the more beauty becomes the nature of your now, your life, your experience and YOU!

your shining example—of just how beautiful ALLOWING Success can be!

Increasing your RDA of Beauty greatly contributes to staying in and Allowing flow.

Beauty is music to the soul. Increasing your RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance) of beauty can greatly help your mind, body, spirit, and level of productivity, as well as help you maintain or reconnect with your awesome Allowing flow. Sometimes, when I have projects that require sitting at my computer keyboard for several hours, I take my laptop out on the porch where I can hear the birds singing and pause every so often enjoy the beauty of the trees and flowers around me. At night, I light candles, burn incense or put on some music to add some beauty to my work experience. Just as Mary Poppins said, “Just a spoon full of sugar...”

••••••••••••••••••

Welcome home, beautiful.

“...The power of beauty, profound and clear My timeless yet familiar friend She delivers me to my ever-present now And brings me home again...”

“The Power of Beauty”—Terez Hartmann

Terez Hartmann is the President/CEO of ALLOWING Your Success & BEYOND!, LLC, author of the book ALLOWING Your Success! and a professional Keynote Speaker, Retreat and Workshop Facilitator, Coach, Recording Artist, and Singer-Songwriter. For more about Terez, access to FREE Allowing resources and “Words, Music, Adventures & BEYOND for LETTING Good Happen and ENJOYING the Journey!” visit: www.AllowingYourSuccess.com To order the book, ALLOWING Your Success! visit: www.Transformation-Publishing.com.

Allowing yourself to be in beautiful surroundings also gives you great material for future creations!

Does having dinner at a five-star restaurant sound like your idea of beautiful? Even if you go once a week or month just for dessert, coffee, or a beverage of choice, you help to pave the way for that full dinner, just by getting your beautiful foot in the door!

Specialty Food Product Company

Creating something beautiful is a two-for-one special!

In my own experience, I have discovered that writing songs or articulating ideas that increase beauty in the world greatly help me stay in a feel-good flow and reconnect with a sense of well-being when needed. Taking things a step further by sharing these creations and potentially inspiring a fellow traveler is a way-cool two-for-one special, indeed!

Developed and successfully sells non dairy cream substitutes, coffee creamers and whipping cream.

Products are unique relative to any competition and to other non dairy alternatives.

Maintains a patented product line that has a proven wide ranging appeal to the discerning consumer public.

Uniformly favorable consumer quality reviews.

Established retail markets in the US, Canada and Asia.

Significant growth in its specialty markets over the last 2 years.

Growth has matched the internal growth of the company’s equity.

Demonstrated a stable core business and has established specialty product lines that allow for significant expansion.

Creating and sharing the beautiful things, gifts, experiences, or ideas YOU have within you truly IS the gift that keeps on giving!

The Bottom Line on The Power of BEAUTY Experiencing, creating, and expressing beauty in the world is one of THE greatest joys of being alive! The more you focus on the presence of BEAUTY in your life, the more you attract and Allow your beautiful expanded reality and SELF. You fully enjoy the journey by recognizing that life truly is a dynamic work of art and by doing so, light the way for others—through

for sale Producer of Natural Products Made With Organic Ingredients

Products include a certified organic line.

Track record of success within its niche, and maintains broad, established distribution channels.

Existing private label capabilities.

Firm intellectual property portfolio with numerous patents.

Well positioned for growth, this manufacturer is becoming the dominant player in its market categories.

With a well capitalized acquirer, the company will complete its penetration of its existing specialty markets.

Additional international markets in development with current distribution in Japan and Australia.

Received six product awards from food publications and national trade events over the last several years.

For information contact: David L. Ganje P.A. 511 West Bay Street • Suite 350 • Tampa, Florida 33606 Office: (813) 321-6884 • d.ganje@davidlganjepa.com

11

Tools & Tips

Connecting with the

By Brenda Renee’ Now that spring has fully awakened Mother Earth from her deep wintery sleep, the fey folk are busily working! Tree spirits unfurl their leafy cloaks; flower fairies paint delicate flower petals; gnomes have prepared soil for planting. In a triumphant re-birth over death, the world blossoms into vibrant Technicolor—thanks to the fairy folk.

Divine has a multi-tiered staff of helpers. The staff of fey folk goes by many names: fairies, wee folk, Elementals, good folk, and fair folk. The term “Elementals” is the larger order and indicates the true nature of this species of beings. In the natural world, we have four elements: fire, water, earth, and air. The elementals are imprinted with the qualities of their respective element, and they aid in balancing the planet. These beings hold ancient knowledge of their element’s mysteries.

Fire elementals are of the salamander species that live among all things fiery, including sunlight. They ignite and excite energies, especially the sexual desires.

They inspire idealism and action. The watery element consists of water sprites and undine species. These beings encourage emotions, artistic endeavors, and psychic realms.

Water spirits assist in changes of consciousness. The earth elementals, characterized by gnomes, reside among rocks and inside the Earth. They stabilize and ground energies. Gnomes are expert teachers in creating forms from matter. Earth elementals carry wisdom of bodily maintenance and use of the five senses. The Air elementals consist of the winged Sylphs, which are masterful in areas of communication and thought processes. To most humans, the elementals go unnoticed; however, they leave their legacy wherever nature is enjoyed.

Fairies are very different than our preconceived ideas. Art work is mass generated with images of these beings appearing as childlike, sweet, and cuddly. However, their form is otherworldly and not quite as defined as the popular images portray.

Typically, man personifies that which is not known or comprehended. Fairies are very ancient and very wise, and they are not particularly concerned with human affairs. Their primary focus is to tend the natural world. If respectfully approached, however, the fey will offer assistance to humans.

At the beginning of our fairy realm adventures, we will want to first open our mind to their true existence. There are many different realities that exist parallel to ours. When we step outside our five senses and cultivate our sixth psychic sense, we can open to these realms and the fantastical creatures living within them. Our sixth sense will teach us how to see with our inner eye, hear with our inner ear, and feel inside our skin.

Fairies resonate with child energy. Thus, contact with the fairy realm will require us to get in touch with our Inner Child. Next, we need to see them as equals and not under-

12

lings, meaning we need to treat them with the utmost respect—if we don’t want to be caught in their trickery! Remember tales of leprechauns who refuse to be caught?

These beings are of a different realm with different laws, and we cannot impose our belief systems on them.

Making a Connection Connecting with the Elemental world can take many different paths.

You can find many clues into the fairy realm by reading fairytales. These fables hold mystical truths for those who read between the lines. Also, you may choose to work with a fairy tarot deck; however, I recommend these decks more for fairy connection rather than for divining purposes.

The fairies enjoy trickery and fun, so readings may not be of the utmost accuracy.

Also, keep in mind that there are both positive and negative in every species.

Invite the elementals into your environment by creating “elemental spaces.” Provide for all four of the elemental groups when creating these environments. Install a small water pond and circulate the water with a gurgling fountain. While friendly frogs (who are fairy messengers) gather at the water’s edge, undines will delight and frolic in this water source. An outdoor fire pit will be most enjoyed by dancing salamanders.

Hang wind chimes, mobiles, and windsocks to harness the power of Sylphs.

Scatter various rocks and natural crystal clusters outdoors. The gnome will charge the crystals to aid plant growth and attract beneficial energy to your home.

Encourage plant fairies by planting a fairy garden. Use dwarf plants such as: Irish moss, corsican mint, veronica subulata, candytuft, and thrift phlox. Plant flowers with bell and lantern blossoms like snowdrops, bluebells, foxglove, columbine, morning glories, and petunias. Herbs such as thyme and rosemary encourage fey, while basil attracts dragons. Blooming shrubs such as roses, gardenias, and hawthorn are also fairy favorites. Tree spirits found in birch trees provide doorways into the fairy realm, whereas apple trees are home to the mystical unicorn.

Decorate your garden with sparkly, colorful garden art and fey folk statuary to mark your deliberate intent for

connection. Avoid harsh chemicals and go organic as much as possible. Remember, fey belong to the natural world, which means imperfect, unpredictable, and wild. The appearance of wildlife inhabitants will surely confirm your growing fairy population.

Once you have designed your outdoor areas, spend quality time there to directly experience the fairy folk.

Peak times for fairy sightings are: sunrise and sunset (known as ‘tween times), May Day and Summer Solstice. Relax your normal visual and mental focus. If you notice flickers that race by or see small figures from the corner of your eye, acknowledge that you are opening to the fairy realm. Pay attention to sudden chills as gusty breezes whisk through hanging items and tree leaves.

Allow faces and shapes to form in the contours and colors of

plants. Listen for the sound of tinkling bells and laughter. The fey folk are all around—just waiting for you to recognize them!

••••••••••••••••••

Brenda Renee’ holds a Master’s Degree in Parapsychic Sciences through AIHT. She is a Holistic Life Coach who uses her refined Metaphysical talents such as: feng shui, astrological chart analysis, shamanism, aromatherapy, color therapy, tarot divining, and creative visualization to achieve life altering results. Brenda is passionate in her quest of teaching others how to manifest their dreams. For more information: www.themysticalempress.com

Spirituality know. If not for this Intelligence, could we think even a single thought on our own? Could we communicate with each other at all if there were no common mental connection?

Marla Sanderson has been a student of spiritual practice for more than 35 years. She began as Assistant Director of The Next Step, a psychic and spiritual community in a New Mexico ghost town.

As workshop leader, teacher, practitioner, and minister, she has led relationship and personal growth workshops, taught psychic development and meditation, Living Love, and the Science of Mind.

Marla is available for workshops and speaking engagements. She recently founded the New Thought Center for Creative Living at the Unity Peace Cottage in Clearwater (see ad ). Attend the Mid-Week Faith Lift service, Wednesdays at 7pm. www.newthoughtctr.org

••••••••••••••••••

Creativity—It’s Exactly What You Think There is much to say about creativity, but what’s more important is knowing that we create all the conditions and situations in our life. If (or because) we didn’t know this before, much of our life may have seemed like it just happened.

The Creative Source of all things is Omnipotent (all powerful), Omnipresent (everywhere present), and Omniscient (all knowing). We can call it Divine Intelligence, Spirit, Creative Mind, Universal Mind, God, BOB, or something else.

We say It is Omnipotent because there is no other force or source, and it is GOOD. There is no power for evil, none for disaster, none for harm of any kind. Nothing fighting for our eternal soul nor damning us to everlasting punishment. There just can’t be two Omnipotent Forces.

As we recognize It as Omnipresent, we know there is not a single place in the Universe where It is absent. It is in, about, over, around, and through all things. It is right where we are, always and forever. Think of it as Life and Intelligence flowing through us, and It enables us to think, see, perceive, and

What It Means As an Omnipresent Power, It is in me. That makes me an expression or extension of It, endowed with Its creativity. And that is extraordinary! It’s the Intelligent Force and Source that created the entire universe. I didn’t make it this way but it works in my favor.

My mind is a doorway to Universal Mind, just as is yours.

There is no distance. It’s present in me, and this makes me One with Its All-Knowing Intelligence. I can access that Mind for wisdom and guidance, any time or all the time. You cantoo.

As part of the All-Knowing Power and Presence, I turn my attention to it and ask for whatever I need to know. I also get to watch for the answer revealed in different ways. Sometimes it’s an inner prompting or flash of insight. Sometimes it’s a serendipitous event. Sometimes it’s just knowing that I know.

When I understand how it works, I can connect with the Creative Power through the use of my own mind. My mind connected to the Mind that created it all. Imagine the possibilities!

What I hold in mind is the mold for everything that fills my life. It consists of my thoughts and beliefs, and it’s easier to change my thinking than it is to change the outside circumstances. When I change my thinking, it opens up my entire world and lets in new possibilities for great and wonderful things. New ideas, sparked by the Intelligent Presence, light up the dark corners of my mind and my life.

More than anything else, you have control over what you think. No matter what’s happening in your world, only you have power over your thoughts. Make them good. Make them creative. Make them something you want to live out as your life.

Thought is creative. Believe it, use it, and rejoice.

13

Inspiration

Sacred Images, Sacred Messages

By Jo Mooy The first image was not present to the external senses. It appeared while in meditation, forming precise geometric shapes and symbols. In this altered state I felt like “something” was creating a new pattern for seeing, thinking, and being, and it was revealing itself in a most subtle way. After coming out of meditation I sketched the image. It was an elongated diamond shaped faceted prism with a circle in the center of the prism. The entire image of the prism with all its facets and deep inner meanings was contained in an outer circle.

Some might ask if an image like this is created by the artist or practitioner or if it is imagined.

As both a life-long meditator and an artist the lines can sometimes blur. Meditation is a prayerfully induced state of consciousness which leads to an altered state of perception and reception. Imagination, on the other hand, can activate in an intuitive flash while driving a car or while daydreaming.

Working on a painting or piece of art, the artist also can enter a state of consciousness that is both meditative and creatively active.

From long experiences with both meditation and creative art this image was not in my consciousness. In the great unconscious, it came unbidden as though someone or something else was creating it. I was simply an observer watching the image unfold with all its nuances and meanings. I was overwhelmed with its message that an ethereal Prism of Light was to be imagined and created over this area and that in a future timeit would bear fruit as a crystal city of light.

This image which called itself The Prism of Light along with its message was shared with nine leaders of the spiritual community. They unanimously affirmed it held a reverent message and unique intention. On the summer solstice of 2008 they embraced it. Using ceremony, ritual, creativity, and imagination, hundreds of people created a Prism of Light, ethereally and figuratively, over sixty-five square miles. They held aloft the vision of a Prism of Light, setting the intention that this area would be

14

forever placed and held as a future spiritual city of light.

More importantly, the message of the Prism of Light had extended itself to Jerusalem where a gathering of spiritual leaders from many different religions had been working for peace for over twenty years.

They learned about the message of the Prism of Light. They held the same vision that the Prism would be a beacon over a “new” Jerusalem of peace in the future. As though in confirmation of this shared endeavor, a crop circle appeared in the barley fields of England in the same shape as the Prism of Light with an extended circle in its center.

Eventually, the message of the entire vision was released to the community in a mandala called The Crystal of Peace (shown here). The prism was embedded into the center of a three foot mandala with progressive lotus petals emerging from the prism. Each of the original nine anchors were asked to bring their intentions for peace into the mandala by painting one of the facets of the central prism. Over several weeks, the mandala took form in color, intention and paint. It was sanctified and anointed by Tibetan, Hindustani, Buddhist, Balinese, Native American and Sufi mystics and spiritual leaders. At the Wellness Fest in 2009, over 200 children, mothers and fathers wrote in a book their intentions for peace on earth then painted one of the facets of the Crystal of Peace facets.

It went around the world when Drunvalo Melchizidek publicized the mandala in his Spirit of Maat online magazine.

It was used in ceremonies in Australia and adorned the altars of people in France, Belgium and Japan. An art group in Spain took the drawing of the mandala in black and white and had local artists create blessings

and intentions for peace on earth; sharing back with us over one hundred Crystal of Peace mandalas.

This is a living mandala. It holds the prayers and wishes of this generation for those of future generations still to come.

Its organic roots live on, not only in the memories of participants who shared the vision in southwestern Florida but it lives in the barley fields of the United Kingdom and the devotional intentions of peace groups in Jerusalem.

It is a meditation, an image, and a message emerged from deep within. A vision was shared that took on a life of its own. It lives now in consciousness, made real through the actions and behaviors of people all over the world.

The final part of the vision unfolds on 12.12.12 when the Prism of Light will be created out of sand and earth sent from holy sites all over the world.

The mandala will have gone full circle, from southwestern Florida around the world and back. Its message of hope, harmony and universal brotherhood is inherent in the first image that came, back in 2007.

•••••••••••••••••

For more information on the story of the Prism of Light and its origins, contact Jo Mooy at www.starsoundings.com.

Tools & Tips

An Intuitive, Author, and Storyteller, Staci shows other how to remove the blocks that keep them from knowing who they really are. She’s the author of the novels The Fifth Goddess and Where Fat Girls Haven’t Gone, and created the Out Your ego! book and card deck.

Staci offers messages of Light, Love & Laughter at events and gatherings and can be heard every Wednesday at 4 pm on GSHRadio. com. For more information, visit www.StaciB.com

•••••••••••••••••• Creativity

In the last two years, I’ve moved nine times. I’ve become a Goldilocks of sorts, assessing the comfort of various beds and processing the distinct night noises made by each house and its neighborhood. I’ve explored three counties and discovered geographic nooks and crannies that life-long residents don’t know about. I’m an expert at packing and unpacking.

And most importantly, I have learned how to manage my energy in the midst of the unfamiliar.

You might think that these circumstances would thwart creativity. To the contrary, they have fueled mine. In this same time period, I have written dozens of articles and columns, penned a short story that was sold to a literary magazine, and sculpted a hundred new Haikus. I’ve authored a book, created a board game, crafted stories and shared them with audiences, and helped others to hone their own stories. In the midst of what

could be perceived as enormous chaos, I have experienced pinnacles of creativity.

Why? Because life is the driving force behind my creative expression.

Sorting through the details of renting storage facilities, organizing friends to help me move the 100 boxes that contain my life . . . again, meeting client due dates, expending energy on my own spiritual development and supporting others with theirs, drove me to create. It is my safety valve-the release button on my internal pressure cooker. Creating brings me comfort.

That doesn’t mean I’m always able to do it.

There are times when I allow the appearance of chaos to prevent me from doing what I know will make me feel better.

I’ve blamed it on the muse not liking change. “She’ll only wake up when things calm down,” I’ve joked. When I was willing to listen, I learned my muse craves the calm of the peace within, not serenity born of some external utopia.

Creativity isn’t an elusive entity that only appears when life is tranquil. If that were the case, we wouldn’t have most of the great works of art, literature, and film that we do. The only thing that is required for creative expression is focus. With a little practice, you can learn to do that no matter the level of change occurring in your life.

By creating—bringing non-physical energy into threedimensional form—I access the peace and joy that sometimes seems so far away, but is always available to me. Life will always be filled with change. But creativity, like my home, is something I carry with me. It is not something to “find.” It is not over “there.”

It is inside-waiting patiently to be exposed.

15

Tools & Tips

By Tracey Ashcraft

Your creativity can be like an untamed wild horse running on the range.

It’s a beautiful animal, full of energy and potential. Imagine this horse stops to splash in a shallow pond, and a person full of anticipation comes up from behind and tries to harness it to ride. The horse’s eyes bulge with fear and fury because it doesn’t want to submit. It wants to be free! Watch any old Western movie, and you’re likely to see a scene like this, where a cowboy is trying to “break” a wild horse. Now superimpose this vision with someone trying to channel his or her unbridled ideas and dreams to reach life or business goals. In both cases, without an organized strategy and step-by-step approach, the person is likely to get bucked to the ground many times and may never get in the saddle.

Although a flood of ideas can be desirable when writing a story, prepping a canvas for paint, planning a themed party, or creating a new business plan, at other times the deluge can be so uncontrollable that it gets in the way of completing anything worthwhile.

On these occasions, new creative ideas enter the mind and overthrow any current projects at hand because they can seem far more interesting or viable than the ones being worked on. If you need some help getting up, brushing off the dust, and getting back into the saddle to evaluate, prioritize, and actually execute creative ideas, there are 10 easy ways to tame the wild steed in your mind.

16

What can you do when creativity runs wild?

1.

Write down your ideas. When a creative burst hits, it may not be practical to bring all of the ideas to fruition, even if they are good. Write them all down so that you can review them later when then excitement level comes down and you can be objective in analyzing the opportunities.

2.

Carry a small journal or utilize a notepad app on your phone. Ideas often hit at inconvenient times. Having a place to record them and reference them at a later time is invaluable. For example, Evernote is a free app for the Android or iphone that can be accessed later from your computer. The computer program itself also can facilitate scanning, searching, and data storage.

3.

Prioritize the ideas. Review your creative ideas when you have some quiet time. Decide which projects are most important to tackle during the current week. Set aside the other ideas and just work on the most important ones for that week 4.

Create an idea box or wall. When ideas hit and you fear losing them or having them take you off course, capture them in some way. A basket or a decorative photo box can house inspirations of many sorts such as scraps of fabric, color chips from the paint store, photos, quotes, etc. For a new twist on the bulletin board, try the online virtual bulletin board at pinterest.com.

5.

Have creativity sessions. Even the most creative people have times when they draw a blank. Creativity sessions get you out of the thinking mind and into the creative mind. Break out paints and enjoy the feeling of paint moving on the paper. Turn on music and dance in the living room. Try making a collage out of magazine pictures. Don’t worry about the outcome. The creative session is about the process not the result.

6.

Limit stimulating activities. Surfing the Internet can be a great source for inspiration when creating. It also can become overwhelming. The same principle rings true when looking through magazines or reading articles. These activities can enhance your life but are best enjoyed in short increments of around 30 minutes.

7.

Get feedback. When ideas are flooding in, it can be helpful to run them by a trusted friend. Sometimes having input from someone that is supportive can help expand the idea into a cohesive objective or goal.

8.

Let go of what others think. This tip is different from getting the feedback of a trusted source. Creativity can be stifled if you tell too many people your ideas and they get shot down. In the spirit of “helping” people will freely offer their opinions without realizing that they may have a counterproductive influence.

9.

Be kind to yourself. If you feel pulled in too many directions with a wild flood of ideas, be gentle on yourself. The ideas are part of your bigger process. Try meditating or taking a nap at these times.

10.

Follow your passion. Learn to trust your ideas, and follow the ones that you are most passionate about.

It’s important to make sure your creativity is an asset and not a liability.

These tips may seem basic, but they do take discipline to follow. Forcing yourself to write ideas down actually frees brain space for more ideas, while getting into the habit of prioritizing and reviewing lists will help you to feel calm and focused during the process. If you are ready to take the reins and harness your creativity, there is no limit to what you can create in your life and business.

••••••••••••••••••

Tracey Ashcraft, MA, is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Coach based in Boulder, CO. She also has a vintage trailer restoration business. Tracey is passionate about helping people to live their best lives. Coaching sessions are offered via phone or video chat. For more information, visit www.bestlifetherapy.com.

Healthy Living her boundaries release and the energy that she perceived was “her” merged with the energy of the objects and even the walls around her.

Christina Captain, DOM, AP, SLP, FSC is a board certified acupuncture physician and the founder of The Family Healing Center. She earned her degree in Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine from the East West College of Natural Medicine, Sarasota, Florida, where she is now a senior faculty member and advisory board chairperson. Christina received additional training in acupuncture injection therapy and earned a Masters degree in Speech Language Pathology and Communication Disorders and is an expert Feng Shui practitioner and teacher.

•••••••••••••••••• Preparing for Life Change

As hurricane season approaches on the West Coast of Florida, the thought of preparedness comes to the forefront of most people’s minds. As a native of the state, I experienced Andrew while living in Miami and developed a tolerance for the fears surrounding the hurricane issue. Preparation is a natural process for me now.

Pondering on the concept of being prepared, I often wonder:

Do individuals feel equipped to handle whatever life might bring them.?

The question comes to mind, “What should we be prepared for?” Life-changing events such as acute illness, injury from accidents, a sudden diagnosis, or just everyday issues associated with aging, to name a few. Or what about spiritually transforming events, such as an opening of consciousness and creativity?

Of course, following a healthy lifestyle, including clean eating and exercise for the mind, body and spirit, helps to prepare us for stresses in our daily lives and enhances our spiritual life. However, what if something truly life-altering happens?

I recently had the opportunity to view an 18-minute video clip on TED.com by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor, a Harvard-trained neuroanatomist who woke one day to discover she was experiencing a stroke in progress. She wasn’t prepared for it but took an intellectual perspective and began to study herself as her brain and body functions slowly degraded. The stroke was happening in the left side of her brain, which is the side that keeps our ego alive. It is the part of the brain that gives us the boundaries of our bodies and which tells us “constantly” who we are and aren’t. It is, in other words, the side of the brain that limits us.

Since the stroke was evolving on the left side, this hemisphere would periodically shut down and turn off the voice that defined her limitations, and when this chatter was silenced it allowed the right side to take over. As she describes it, when the right side of her brain was in full control, she could feel

The “connectedness” that she experienced was described in her words as Nirvana.

In fact, it was so heavenly she was not aware that she had a problem until the left side of her brain was able to come back online and scream, “You need help!”

Much to her surprise, she recounted the fact that she really didn’t want to be back in control and rather preferred the stress-free environment that the right side of her brain offered.

She ended up mustering the energy to call for help, and after years in recovery she is now is able to relate her experiences very well. This story overlaps much of what is being presented by many of today’s consciousness pioneers. For example, Ekhart Tolle’s book The New Earth describes the ego and absence thereof with striking similarity to how Dr. Taylor relates her experience.

In my study of Chinese Medicine, the concept of yin and yang also relates to the opposing sides of the brain, which the practice considers interrelated and mutually dependent in how they express significantly different personalities. The yin side is most relative to the right side of the brain, where it encompasses “just being.” The left side of the brain is more yang and actively tells stories to limit our sense of possibility and creativity. In Chinese Medicine, both yin and yang are needed for humans to live harmoniously. The thought is provocative, however, to wonder what life would be like if we could turn off the left side of the brain at will and stop the endless self-limiting chatter. Of course, in this scenario we also would not be able to communicate because the left side of our brain houses the speech and language centers.

An alternative and more practical approach may be meditation, as some masters profess that deep medication and other spiritual experiences create the same type of Nirvana. Are we prepared as a culture to let go of control and pursue such a path to open our consciousness to the right side of the brain?

Are we prepared to bring into existence who we truly are, which is powerful energy beings with abilities to heal ourselves?

Or are we still standing in line to pick up a prescription at the pharmacy?

I hope that nobody has to experience a life-altering event such as a stroke to awaken to the possibility of connecting more intimately with the energy that creates our world and everything in it. However, I hope the messages from Dr. Taylor and other spiritual teachers encourage us to step out of the confines of our belief systems to explore the more creative potential of allowing our right brains to dominate. Now is the time to prepare for this opportunity because we never know when the universe will open the door and allow us to walk through.

17

18

Spirituality An affirmation or two just doesn’t do the trick when you spend more time dwelling on the problem.

Gregg Sanderson has a rare view of the metaphysical universe. He traveled the road from Christian Science through Judaism, Agnosticism, Atheism, Living Love, Psychic Development, Spiritualism, Teaching of the Inner Christ, all the way to the International Centers for Spiritual Living where he is a licensed practitioner. He is the author of What Ever Happened To Happily Ever After? and Split Happens – Easing the Pain of Divorce. Gregg’s latest venture is Spirit With A Smile — The Way It Is (Unless It’s Something Else). Email to gregg@spiritwithasmile.com.

••••••••••••••••••

Beware the RACE Trap “If my thoughts create my world and I think good thoughts, where did all this crap come from?”

It came from two factors: Preponderance and Quality of thought.

Picture BOB, the Being Of Bliss, playing “Whack A Mole” with your thoughts, and the only thing It can whack is “Yes.” Your morning meditation pops up “I’m prosperous” and BOB whacks “Yes, you’re prosperous.” Then you look in your wallet and you think, “I’m broke.” That thought pops up and BOB whacks “Yes, you’re broke.”

Lunchtime you bring your baloney sandwich and think of the money you saved by not going out to lunch with friends.

BOB whacks “Yes, you saved money.” Not exactly the thoughts of a prosperous being, and the prosperity scale has tipped toward the lack end.

By the end of the day, after reading the grocery ads, clipping coupons, and checking the sales, your “I’m prosperous” is obscured by all the “I’m nots,” so what do you think you create for yourself? BOB is Whack-a-Mole “Yes” 24/7.

The same holds true, of course, for good health, happy relationships, and anything else you want to create in your life.

No matter what you want, BOB will whack “Yes” to every message you send.

That, however, is only half the picture.

Your creative thoughts are propelled by your emotional energy, and since BOB is a Being of Bliss, it’s only reasonable you’ll get a happier response to Love than to fear. The more you avoid the RACE Trap, the happier will be the world you create.

“RACE” is, of course, the acronym that stands for Righteousness and Approval Complicate Everything. When your creative thoughts are colored through the RACE Trap, motivated either to prove a point or gain approval, (Some call it “ego”) the results are similarly colored.

For example, suppose you affirm for your perfect relationship, but beneath your affirmation is a fear of being socially unacceptable without a partner, or fear of being alone because you believe you need somebody to “complete” you.

Whether your fear is conscious or unconscious, it creates on its own level, so you just might get that perfect relationship... perfect for you to grow out of. Forgot to mention no drinking problem in your affirmation, did you?

The good news is that fear has only the power you give it. Love (BOB) is the antidote. Just as to the light there’s no such thing as darkness, so it is when you’re feeling love, there’s no such thing as fear.

Of course it’s a little more complex than just flipping a “love switch,” but it’s a long way from impossible and future columns will give you methods you can use to increase the flow.

Just as Love banishes fear, so Gratitude obliterates lack. Nobody can be grateful and needy at the same time.

Worthiness also erases anxiety. Feelings of unworthiness are often the basis of anxieties and insecurities. Again, the happy news, they can’t coexist.

So first be Love, be Grateful, and realize your worthiness as a part of BOB. Then allow your thoughts to create your life.

On that foundation, you can only create awesome.

19

Transformation

Joeel A. Rivera, M.Ed., Ph.D. (ABD) holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling and is currently completing his dissertation for his Ph.D. in Psychology. Joeel’s extensive career as a relationship coach includes certifications in P.R.E.P, a 30-year research-based program for couples, Nurturing Father’s curriculum, and Parenting 21st Century. Contact Joeel at joeel@transformationservices.org

••••••••••••••••••

A Skeptic’s Perspective on The Law of Attraction If you are reading this article you probably have heard about the Law of Attraction, which states that you can attract things into your life based on what you think about. When I first became aware of it, many years back, I felt intrigued, excited about the possibilities, and at the same time skeptical. I don’t know about you, but I am a natural skeptic. I know if I was a fish I surely would not be the one ready to bite into the best looking shrimp with a hook, no matter how tempting the “bait” seemed.

With this attitude, I began to test whether or not the Law of Attraction really works, starting with small things like getting something free every day or finding a good parking spot. At first I was surprised at the ease that some of those things materialized. However, I asked myself if it was just because I was more aware and looking for them. Hmm, I must move to bigger and better things, I thought.

So I decided to come up with the idea of opening up a photography company with the intention to make a certain amount of money in a short period of time that allow me to quit my job and pursue what I felt was my true purpose: entrepreneurship. To my surprise, in three days I received a great contract out of the blue and quit my job. However, I had one problem. I had to learn the ins and outs of photography and using professional lighting in just one week. I did what any insane person would do and spent many sleepless hours watching Youtube videos and practicing. At the end, everything fell into place.

Lesson 1. You have to make a commitment and put in effort. The universe did its part and opened the doors; however, unless I was willing to spend the hours learning what to do and actually doing it, I would have gotten nothing out of the opportunity.

At this time I was in attraction heaven, but then certain events in my life threw me for a loop. I had to come to the realization that maybe, just maybe, I also had attracted all the negative stuff too? During this process, I decided to pay for a

20

raffle ticket to win a car. I thought if I won the car I would sell it and use the money to turn my situation around. As the raffle time approached, I felt a deep resistance. Part of me saw that it would be a great blessing. However, the other part of me believed that if I won the outcome would be telling me that I really was creating my life, both good and bad. Was I ready to hear that and to fully live in that reality? The answer was NO! Hence, I did not win the car, much to my relief, but the experience did teach me a valuable lesson.

Lesson 2. You cannot attract something when at your core you have resistance to it. Consider whether you have ever resisted something you believed you wanted because it would change what you are comfortable with, even if what you’re comfortable with is not what you want.

Many times we form attachments to things in life, even the things that hold us back. Ask yourself, what is your resistance? How would your life change? Are there possible negative things that you think may come from it (like having it change your relationship with someone)?

At this point, I fell back into my comfort zone and I started to unconsciously boycott the Law of Attraction. However, with time the intrigue drew me back to this magical world of possibilities.

With practice, I noticed that not all of my intentions where becoming a reality, so I worked on releasing the things that may be holding me back from receiving. I was doing everything right: I had the intention, visualized what I wanted, worked towards it, and even had the emotion behind it. So, why wasn’t what I wanted magically appearing? During that time, I remember waking up in the middle of the night with a drive to work on something or to write something down. Instead I told myself, “WOW that is a great idea, however the bed is too comfortable— I’ll write it down in the morning.” In the morning the only thing I could remember was how to hit the snooze button as many times as possible. Then I had another realization.

Lesson 3. Learn to listen to your internal voice and environment. Follow your inspired action whenever possible. The ideas, opportunities, and insights can come at any time and in any way.

Carry around a notepad and write down moments of clarity and insight and make goals and commitments. Most importantly, follow through.

For example, I was working at a college, at the end of my contractual year, and intending to get my contract renewed. I enjoyed what I did, even though part of me had a vision of working and living on a tropical island. I did not get the contract, but was offered a position in Dominica, a beautiful tropical island, with a significantly higher salary. At first, it was a dream come true, but before I was to start I developed severe resistance, and the opportunity left as fast as it came. Why? I quickly realized

that it may have brought me abundance and a unique life experience but not true wealth (happiness). I would be away from family for long periods of time, something I did not want.

I got what I thought I wanted but then realized that my intentions where not fully aligned.

This experience brought about a lot of uncertainty in my life regarding where I wanted to be, what I wanted, and even how I was going to pay my bills.

But then I learned to let go, and everything fell into place better than I could have imagined and in a way that was inconceivable to my limited reality.

Lesson 4. Sometimes what you think you want is not what is going to fulfill your Higher Self. Create clarity about what you truly want to feel and experience. It’s also okay to admit to yourself that what you thought you wanted was not truly what you wanted and then to let go and search for a new path.

At the same time, you have to come to acceptance that:

Even negative experiences can be necessary to take you down the most amazing paths.

I learned that I can set my intention, but I have to let it go and trust in my journey. I must remember it is not about the goal, it’s about the path.

Many of us experience the, “It may works for others but not for me” mentality. In the end, however, I concluded that the Law of Attraction works. Remember that our reality is influenced by our limited experience of what reality is. Be open to the creative mind and infinite possibilities. This means being able to let go of attachment to outcomes and trusting and enjoying the journey. It also means coming to the realization that no matter how much you intend it, you cannot change someone else. They have free will to set their own intentions.

Keep in mind that you can’t fully attract something “better” if you cannot find joy and peace where you are with what you have.

When you learn to truly appreciate the blessings that you currently have, you open yourself for other blessings. In hindsight, I should have allowed myself to win that car. If I did, I would have learned my lesson sooner: I AM a co-creator of all things good and bad in my life, and that I have a choice to change to a different path whenever I want to do it. Since accepting this, I have managed to break recurring negative patterns and learn the lessons they were designed to teach me. In the end, I took the bait hook, line, and sinker and realized that a higher aspect of myself was reeling me in.

21

Transformation some time in the creation mode for the sake of our health. For example, I find women who are disconnected from their creative seeds often form abnormal ovarian cysts and have other reproductive problems.

By Maggie Batts What motivates us to create? Let’s face it, most of us cannot just pick up a pen or paintbrush and go. We need to set a mood and create a sacred space.

It is like putting together a recipe. You bring all the ingredients together, often becoming inspired along the way to add a little more spice or sweetness to the mix.

Let’s stop and look at Creation for a moment. The procreation process, for example, stems from our ovaries or testes—the seeds that we plant and watch grow. However, it is not just bringing a baby into our world, but a course of fertilization on all levels. As an energy healer, I perceive creation as beginning in the second chakra (belly or sacral chakra), which is being fueled by the primordial energy of the first chakra (base of spine or root chakra), which also governs our abundance. This is abundance on all levels, not just at the financial end of the spectrum. The seeds of creation gestate in the second chakra, and then need the energy of the third chakra (our will power center or solar plexus) to manifest the creation.

The upper chakras also are affecting this process as our fourth chakra (the heart) has opened up to be completely absorbed with unconditional loving energy. Then our fifth chakra (the throat) begins opening to communication with our guides, while at the same time we tap into the knowledge contained in our higher self (through the third eye or sixth chakra). While gaining divine inspiration or channeling, the seventh chakra (the crown) filters information to fuel our whole creative process. Whew!

Creativity really is a whole body experience. As a result, our entire being needs to be working optimally.

We don’t need to be an artist or writer to be creative. Creativity can come in many forms: decorating, cooking, gardening, teaching, dancing, how we pay the bills, how we get to work each day, etc. It is all about getting from point A to point B. Ask yourself, “Are you regimented with a schedule and self-imposed deadlines or do you allow things to be completed based on your energy levels and your needs?” We each must create at our pace and flow.

We are truly being creative when we allow the information to flow through our being and not stifle it. If we receive a creative spark, we need to manifest it rather than suppress it. Maybe we don’t have the time or believe we are not creative as a result of low self-esteem. Moreover, it is imperative that we spend

22

Getting in the Mood So what DO you need to get in the mood for creation? If you lack energy, do things to activate your third chakra at your diaphragm.

Try lifting this area as you inhale, exhale, and release. Repeat this at a fast pace while “sniffing” air in and out. Spend some time upside down in “downward facing dog” yoga pose or by simply letting your head hang off the edge of the bed.

Let the blood flow to your brain. Play some music that fits your mood or the mood you want to be in. Light a candle and pray for Divine inspiration or invite the Muses into your life. Cleanse yourself and your working space with white sage, lavender water, or the Space Clearing Australian Bush Flower Essence.

In the stages of Creation, you don’t always need to know the final result or how you are going to get there.

Set the mood and just do whatever your being feels inspired to do. That’s Creation…. being in your body at the present moment, not planning ahead or focusing on past failures.

So turn off the television. Get your doodle pads, coloring books, or journal, and tap into that right side of your brain. Make room for growth!

•••••••••••••

Reverend Maggie Batt is a spiritual and holistic health consultant, certified TriYoga® teacher, herbalist, Certified Advanced Kahuna ARCH® practitioner, Usui/Tibetan Reiki Master, and a Certified Karuna Reiki® Master Teacher from the International Center for Reiki Training. She has been practicing and teaching her knowledge for 11 years. Maggie’s yoga teaching paths are Hatha Flow, Kundalini, Kids, Parent/Child, and Prenatal. Her other practices and studies include meditation, ear coning, flower essences, holistic health and natural medicine, feng shui, natural childbirth, natural mom counseling, and magic.

In 2003, she was cast in “Health Cops: New Orleans.” for the Discovery Health Channel. She also appears as an alternative practitioner helping to change someone’s life in 12 weeks on the FitTV channel. For more information, email info@ wheelsoflight.org or visit www.wheelsoflight.org.

Inspiration

By Dolores J. Gozzi The Archetype of creativity, Gemini, promotes the importance of the mind and loves fresh ideas, whimsical imagination, fun, games, change, communication, writing, speaking, and networking. This creativity can be versatile, curious, humorous, and reminiscent of perpetual youth. It also can seem just out of reach, just like a beautiful feather floating on the breeze. Indeed, creativity definitely is in the Air, and capturing its essence requires an understanding of this realm and its qualities.

even preoccupied with a task, all of a sudden the solution to a problem you’ve been mulling over for weeks pops into your head.

You can’t help but wonder why you didn’t think of it before. In this case, a connection was made not only to the element of Air, but also to your creative spirit.

When Air taps into the creative side of each individual, it stirs up a desire to explore and innovate ideas and then to bring them into form and reality. However, since Air is all about thinking and the mental realm, some of our own thoughts and belief systems could interfere and limit ourselves.

Here are three questions you can ask to help improve the creative process: 1. Are there any old and thoughts and beliefs that need to move ???does this makes sense?to get clear and current for my life dreams and creations to come into being?

2. What life perspective(s) do I need to shift to enhance creativity?

3. Do I need to clear old thoughts and belief systems that no longer serve me to open new channels of thought?

Soaring on the Air currents, much like a bird flying above the planet, we can see the larger perspective of our life.

Creativity means different things to different people, as we can see from the word’s definition: Cre•a•tiv•i•ty, noun: 1. the state or quality of being creative. 2. the ability to transcend traditional ideas, rules, patterns, relationships, or the like, and to create From this vantage point, we can meaningful new ideas, forms, methods, interpretations, etc.; originality, progreslisten to the whispers of the wind for ways to siveness, or imagination: the need for creativity in modern industry; creativity in finally tune our frequency and consciously the performing arts. 3. the process by which one utilizes creative ability: Extensive create our life. reading stimulated his creativity.

The big question is, “How do we get new creative ideas?” If we can tap into the element of Air, it can teach us about the mental realm, communication, intention, conscious language, and setting our own “vibrational” tone. Even though Air is considered to be an invisible realm, it flows through each and every one of us.

Air is the realm where our thoughts are turned into creative ideas and then manifested into physical form.

When we learn how to listen to the element of Air, it can provide us with many thoughts and ideas to fuel our ambitions and projects. Being receptive and being able to listen openly and well are crucial skills involved in getting the creative juices flowing.

In this process, Air can help us go within ourselves and listen to our thoughts, as well as to pick up other’s thoughts and integrate them with our own ideas. For example, a Massage Therapist and Healer that lives in a community “receives” the idea to open up a metaphysical practice. Once she is operating the business many people come in and state, “I have been waiting for a place like this to open up.”

Or maybe the following has happened to you. While you are busy food shopping, driving down the road listening to some nice music, talking a relaxing walk, or

••••••••••••

Dolores J. Gozzi is a nationally certified Licensed Massage Therapist and the founder of Healing Thru Bodywork & Nature’s Cycles (www.naturescycles.com). The company incorporates several modalities including aromatherapy, massage, bodywork, element bodywork, and meditation. Through continued education, Dolores is able to perform holistic therapeutic services and offer classes and workshops that promote healing. The mission of Healing Thru Bodywork & Nature’s Cycles is for each individual to be able to reconnect with his or her inner strength and guidance and create a personal world that is harmonious with the elements and guided by nature. For more information call 239-826-6960.

23

Spirituality

Marcia began her career as a school teacher, working with preschool through inner city high school students. She has worked with all aspects of Metaphysics for over 40 years and specializes in Tarot and Numerology. Marcia’s clients and students are in every state and throughout Europe. Marcia has taught over 400 students to “read” the Tarot for the purpose of self-guidance and to use the powerful symbolism of the Tarot to reach higher levels of spirituality.

Her column, Spiritually Speaking, originally ran for 8 years in Attitudes Magazine in the Sarasota area. Email marlou2000@aol.com

•••••••••••••••••• Crystals and Gems, Part 3: Semi-Precious Stones

This is the last of a three part series on crystals, stones, and gemstones. If you have not read parts one and two, visit www.suncoasttransformation.com. I have been involved with crystals for many years and have a collection that would rival most retail outlets. My study of crystals, their lore, and legends is an ongoing one that began more than 30 years ago, but I do not consider myself an expert because this field is so vast. I have used information from two excellent sources in the writing of this series of columns: Crystal Enlightenment by Katrina Raphaell and Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of Crystals, Gems and Metal Magic by Scott Cunningham.

Civilizations have worked with the power of crystals and stones from the earliest of recorded history to our present Age of Aquarius.

Different cultures and civilizations have used the power within crystals and stones for as long as humans have inhabited the earth. The oldest lore and legends of crystal magic come from the ancient “lost continent” of Atlantis. The inhabitants of this evolved and advanced race used crystals to channel and harness the power of the cosmos. They also used crystal power in their everyday lives regarding medical situations. It is said that

24

the survivors of Atlantis relocated to many parts of the globe and continued to use the knowledge of crystals in South America, Egypt, and Tibet. As civilizations continued to rise and fall, much of the wisdom and knowledge was lost but a significant understanding continues to be passed from generation to generation, culture to culture.

Here are just a few examples of crystals’ legacy. It is recorded in Exodus in the Bible that Aaron (brother of Moses) wore a breast plate of 12 precious jewels to enable him to communicate with God and to enhance his spiritual powers. Kings in ancient India collected the most precious of gems to wear and protect themselves from harm. Medical practices of many ancient cultures included the wearing of amulets and talismans around the neck to help in the recovery of illness. The Greeks and Romans wore stones for protection, knowledge, and health.

American Indians and Mayans used crystals for diagnosis and treatment of disease. Our own civilization uses quartz crystals in ultrasound devices and watches and as memory chips in computers. Metaphysical practitioners use stones and crystals in meditation and for the development of greater intuitive power for spiritual connections.

Now let’s take a closer look my top list of useful crystals and semi-precious stones and some of their many properties.

Quartz crystals.

These are the most common, affordable, and easily found of all crystals. There are over 30 varieties of quartz crystals, and we will talk here about clear quartz. Quartz is composed of silicon dioxide, which is one of the earth’s most common mineral compounds. Human beings are also largely composed of silicon dioxide, which is interesting to say the least. Each crystal is unique and unlike any other. They are used in healing, altering consciousness, and magical rituals. I use clear quartz crystals in the storage of and reading of the Tarot Cards, as they are said to increase psychic abilities. Quartz is used as a protective stone when placed in the home, car, carried in a pocket, or worn around the neck. I always give a clear quartz crystal to my students when they begin a study with me and often to clients who are going through a difficult cycle in their lives. If you are just starting to work with crystals, I suggest that you begin your collection with a clear quartz crystal to which you are drawn.

Amethyst.

This is the stone of the “third eye chakra,” and it is one of the best stones to use for meditation, tranquility, and connection to the Higher realms of Consciousness. It is a stone that teaches the lesson of humility, as we submit to allowing the Higher Forces to guide us. It is a stone of comfort, wisdom, and understanding and gives consolation to those who are experiencing loss and change in their lives. It is often called the “soul stone,” as it allows us to tap into and understand the reasons for life’s experiences.

It has a calming mental effect and is often worn by those who are overworked, over stressed, or overwhelmed mentally. It is said to ease tension, headaches, and mental anxieties. Amethyst crystals are abundant and easy to find, and it is said that the clearer and darker the stone, the more valuable.

Rose quartz.

This stone relates to the heart chakra, and its energy works to produce inner peace, healing, and comfort for those with internal pain. It teaches that love comes from within the self and that any wound, no matter how deep or painful, can be healed. Many people who have had negative childhood experiences work with rose quartz and confirm its powerful emotional releases. It is also used in love and romance rituals and is said to draw love to the wearer.

Hematite.

This stone is used for healing, grounding, and divination. Hematite is a beautiful, silvery-black stone and is often found in the form of jewelry. It is mostly worn for grounding and stabilizing purposes and for situations involving the physical/material reality. It is also said to “draw illness,” both physical and mental, from the body. It can be worn by hyperactive individuals for its calming effect.

Fluorite.

This is a multidimensional stone that is said to manifest the highest aspect of the human mind, as it relates to the spirit. It is a “third eye” stone and enables one to maintain a meditative and centered space in the midst of physical activity. It is use to work with people who are experiencing mental illness, as well as with people who want to increase intellect and mental achievement. It is sometimes called the “genius stone.”

Amber.

This is one of the oldest known substances used for human adornment. It is not a stone, but rather fossilized resin of coniferous trees of the Oligocene era. It often contains fragments or complete specimens of insects and plants that fell into the sticky resin millions of years ago. It is warm to the touch and is said to possess life. Amber is worn to enhance good luck, healing, strength, protection, beauty, and love.

Adventurine.

This is considered a good luck stone and is often carried and worn by gamblers as a talisman to attract money. It is said to strengthen the eyesight and to stimulate creativity.

Lapis Lazuli.

This stone has always been associated with royalty and is most often found in the form of jewelry. It is said to aid in healing, bring joy and love into one’s life, give protection and courage to the wearer, help bring fidelity in love partnerships, and enhance psychic abilities. Lapis is also used as an amulet for children and in India is strung on gold wire and placed around a child’s neck to ensure health, growth, and protection.

protection when swimming or boating, and helping in dieting.

Garnet.

This fiery stone is worn to enhance bodily strength, endurance, and vigor. It is also thought to relieve skin conditions, inflammations, and is a regulator of the heart and blood. In the 13th century garnets were worn to repel insects.

Jade.

This is the sacred stone of China and has been since early recorded Chinese history. Jade is usually worn as jewelry or carved into images. It is considered a love-attracting stone and is often exchanged in Chinese marriage ceremonies. It is said to have the power to prolong life, both for humans and plants, and is often used in gardening in the East. Other uses for Jade include attracting money, enhancing psychic abilities, protecting from enemies, and gaining wisdom.

Turquoise.

This is a sacred stone to many American Indian tribes. It is an allaround good luck stone according to our Indian forefathers and is used for protection, courage, money, love, friendship, healing, and luck. It is rare, even in modern times, to find an Indian that is not wearing some form of turquoise at all times. Turquoise is also prized for its beauty. Legend says that rings and jewelry with turquoise stones will always contain an odd number of stones and each stone must have a flaw, now matter how slight, as only God can make something that is perfect.

Peridot.

This stone is worn for general healing purposes. It is said to promote healing of insect bites and to help in liver alignment.

It is used to attract love and to calm anger and is said to help balance the nervous system, relieve depression, and promote restful sleep.

Chrysocolla.

When held in the hand, this stone, which is also popular with American Indians, is said to drive off unreasonable fear and illusions. It is also said to bring peace, wisdom, and love to the bearer.

I hope that this series of articles has ignited an interest in crystals and other stones, and that you will seek more knowledge about these amazing gifts from Mother Nature. If nothing else, perhaps you will now look at jewelry in a new and enlightened manner.

Remember, knowledge is the greatest power, so walk in the Light.

Moonstone.

Ancient lore connects this stone to the moon and to the moon goddess energy. It is used for attracting and sustaining love in one’s life, divination, enhancing psychic capabilities, promoting deep and sound sleep that is free from nightmares, gardening,

25

a standing date, perhaps two or three times a week, and to encourage her to be more self-reliant. While you’re with her, you can offer advice and companionship, but make it clear that you need to stick to the schedule you’ve worked out. If she expects more or wants you to run errands, you’ll have to flex your emotional muscle and tell her that because of your own obligations, you can’t take on any more than you have, and that it’s essential you allocate your time carefully.

Dr. ZZ’s bold, upfront, directive style plays an inspirational role in the lives of people she touches. Drawing on a non-traditional Ph.D. in counseling and natural healing, ZZ works in Sarasota with shaman elder Jack Alexander (“Golden Feather”), who offers land blessings, shamanic training, Life Purpose readings, and all-faith, community-based spiritual guidance. This forum proposes potential solutions on health, emotional, and personal matters. For more, see www.shaman.mosaicglobe.com.

•••••••••••••••••

Question: I’ve been dating my boyfriend for close to six months, and I love him dearly. But since we’ve been going out, he has developed a relationship with my two closest female friends, and it’s driving me crazy. He talks about them frequently and spends more time on the phone with them than I do. I don’t want to come across as jealous or possessive—this would put both the relationship and my friendships at risk—but I don’t know how else to handle this. Am I overreacting, or should I be glad that they’re getting along so well?

Much like the young women in the question above, saying no doesn’t have to annihilate your friendship or be confrontational.

You can courteously report your opinions without being unkind or critical, and you can be direct without expecting your friend to change. People generally appreciate a sincere yes all the more after being honestly apprised of an authentic no. Compassionate communication lays the groundwork for enhancing and strengthening your emotional ties.

Dr. ZZ: Especially in a relatively new relationship, the tendency is to let your imagination run wild. Because your boyfriend has struck up a friendship with more than just one of your buddies, chances are nothing underhanded is going on. But you’re feeling left out; and, because these friends are women, you’re afraid that they may be threats. Obviously, you’re going to have to address this with your boyfriend. This doesn’t mean that you need to be confrontational. You can simply tell him it’s great he and your friends get along, ask him what they talk about on the phone, and express that you’d like to spend more of the time with him that he puts into talking to your friends. The point is not to come across as if you’re jealous, but to let him know that you’re envious, and you’d like to be more involved. In all, you may have to simply accept that he may just like your friends for many of the same reasons you do.

Question: After a 20-year marriage, I am now a single mom with two kids to raise. Suddenly, I have to tend to all the little chores that my husband used to do. Recently, I went to the car mechanic to ask him about a problem, and he was so condescending, he practically patted me on the head. The same thing happened when I went to the hardware store. How can I stand up to these guys and still get the advice I need?

Question: My close friend of many years is in the process of getting a divorce. Though I have two children of my own, she expects me to baby-sit her kids, run errands for her, and listen to her tales of woe. I’m exhausted and need to reclaim my life, but I don’t know how to extract myself from her neediness.

Help!

Dr. ZZ: Your friend probably can probably use an extra dose of support during this rough transitional period, but she can’t expect you to be there to fulfill her every need. If you try, she’ll only become more dependent, and you’ll end up resenting her and needing help yourself. One possible alternative is to make

26

When someone asks you to do something you don’t want to do, it can feel compromising. People often concede and go against their own sense of inner reluctance because they want the other person to like them. They often think that saying no will hurt the other person’s feelings. Though it’s best to be honest, saying no can feel risky. Some folks are such “pleasers” that they volunteer to help automatically--even before anyone else asks for assistance. Blind to their own anxiety to keep peace at all costs, they ignore their own rights, sacrifice their own tranquility, and end up feeling mistreated or unappreciated.

As for her kids, you may have to suggest that you can care for them only in case of an emergency. This may sounds harsh, but if she is a friend worth having, she won’t object to being reminded that you too have a life.

Dr. ZZ: Bravo to you for getting out there and being willing to pinch-hit for yourself! While you can’t be expected to take a crash course in auto mechanics or home repair, simply learning a bit of the basic jargon can go a long way. Often, if you can throw out a technical term or two, you stand a better chance of being heard. It sometimes sets these guys back a few steps when they hear you say, “How much torque do I need to replace this valve head?” If speaking their language isn’t enough to earn you respect, then I suggest taking your business elsewhere. And don’t be afraid to tell these condescending grease monkeys why on the way out.

Disclaimer: All information provided in this article is intended as general information only and is not to be misconstrued as medical or psychological advice, or as diagnosis, treatment or cure for any condition or ailment. Send queries or comments to askDrZZ@ yahoo.com. All identifying information is kept strictly confidential.

Transformation beginning and end. It is eternal. Consciousness is creative. As quantum physics has proven, it is the source of all matter. Because it is the source of all awareness, consciousness is all-knowing.

We most often attribute these qualities to a power outside ourselves, but when we focus on our inner world and become aware of our “I am-ness,” we understand that these qualities belong to us as well. We, as individuals, are a focus of this greater Consciousness. In the physical dimension, we call that focus “Mary” or “John”. Take away the labels, the personalities, and the lifetime of individual beliefs, and there we find the True Self.

This is the meaning of “oneness”. In the end, there is only Consciousness.

By Suzanne Giesemann

You, as a focus of Consciousness, are a co-creator with the Artist of Life.

You are given a white canvas every moment.

Benjamin Franklin said, “Nothing is certain but death and taxes”.

Franklin was pretty smart, but he was wrong about that one. There is What do you wish to create in your life? More peace? something else of which we can all be certain, and that “certain something” More love? More happiness? Your beliefs are your is nothing less than the fundamental essence of life: the unquestionable brushes; your desires are your paint. awareness that “I am.”

Consciousness is the name we give to this awareness, but conWhen you harness your consciousness, sciousness is not a feeling, nor is it a thought. Consciousness cannot be all of life can be your masterpiece. observed, because consciousness is the observer, itself. It is not the experience, but the “experiencer”. Without consciousness there would be no experience.

Suzanne Giesemann is an author, speaker, and teacher Just as the light we see with our eyes is but a small segment of focusing on “love-centered living” as a way to bring more the electromagnetic spectrum, our experiences during waking conscious- peace and joy to every moment. A former Navy Commandness take place in only one of the many dimensions of consciousness. We er and Commanding Officer, Suzanne is also an evidential experience other segments along the spectrum of consciousness when medium who brings unique perspective from her teachings sleeping or dreaming, and often when performing a repetitive act. We can from over 400 private readings. An author of many books, access altered states of consciousness beyond the dream state through Ms. Giesemann became a Hay House author with the hypnosis or meditation. It is then—when we transcend the limitations of publication of The Priest and the Medium. Her latest book, ordinary awareness—that we open ourselves to higher levels of creativity, Messages of Hope, also has been developed into a documentary of the same name. For more information email insight, inspiration, guidance, and wisdom.

Consciousness is in every living thing; from one-celled organisms tkawas@gmail.com or visit www.LoveAtTheCenter.com. to plants, animals, and humans. It is omnipresent. Consciousness has no

•••••••••••••••

27

Inspiration

Randy owns Triple 3 Marketing based in Sarasota. He’s a long term advocate for positive change having owned a couple community magazines since 1999. Randy sold Positive Change Media in April 2009 and took a year off before launching Triple 3 Marketing. In addition to helping business owners, he also provides private coaching. Randy has a masters degree in communication arts from the University of Wisconsin at Madison where he studied persuasion and attitude change. Contact Randy at randy@triple3marketing.com.

•••••••••••••••••• Beyond Either/Or Thinking

Most challenges in life involve making choices between two options. Something happens and we find ourselves standing at the proverbial fork in the road considering our next step.

Do we go right or left? Do we act or delay? Do we gather more information or make a leap of faith?

The idea of seeing the circumstances of our lives as a series of forks in the road is the product of linear thinking.

It’s a dominant mindset because most of us were raised by linear thinking parents in a linear culture. A related idea is our tendency to “label” everything as if we actually know everything.

The reason we are “human label machines” is it gives us a sense of order. If I can label something then I don’t have to deal with it. I can save my brainpower for other things like my business or the boat sale tomorrow. Unlabeled people and things can be threatening, which is why our mind races to create a definition.

Unfortunately, our speed in labeling often trumps our objectivity and accuracy.

Being linear and label oriented is not all bad. Both tendencies help us survive. I’m a scuba diver and I follow a linear process in jumping off a boat and exploring life beneath the surface. As far as labels go, being able to identify what everything is helps us process information more rapidly. The problem is when we trust our labels (opinions) to a point that they become stereotypes—limiting us and others.

I did the Avatar program about eight years ago, and I spent nine days training my mind to catch myself labeling everything. At first, it all seemed silly, but eventually I realized how much my life was on automatic pilot. Even people who are quick to talk about their consciousness might be surprised to learn how much their labeling nature defines their sense of reality.

Psychologists refer to the tendency to reduce our circumstances to two choices as either/or thinking. It’s either this

28

or that. She loves me or she doesn’t. You are with us or against us. You are pro-American or anti-American. Have you ever wandered why politicians cannot propose serious solutions to major issues? These people are stuck in either/or thinking. Most of them cannot contemplate a third or fourth choice that might entail compromise or a new direction. Not having choices beyond their prescribed party position diminishes their creativity and value to the greater good. We would be better served if more politicians were independent because that would suggest receptivity to alternative choices.

What many people learn with the help of therapy and their life experiences is that most circumstances offer multiple options. The most creative people among us presume these choices and their tinkering often leads to new products, new industries and new paradigms leading to positive change.

I recall an artist friend in San Diego who decided to make tumbleweeds his object for creative expression. This culminated in one of the most amazing holiday displays I’ve ever seen. A round and squatty tumbleweed forever changed my picture of what a Christmas tree is supposed to look like. More than that, it made me question what other symbols we use as absolutes and what the consequences are to our ability to think creatively.

My favorite part of the story is that after Christmas my friend carefully removed all of his ornaments, picked off every silver ice cycle, opened his door, and gave the little fellow a well done nudge before sending it on his way. We both laughed as we watched the tumbleweed rolling down the road to its next adventure.

The problem with either/or thinking is it limits our perspective. This is why creativity is so important to humanity and why art in every form has intrinsic value. I’m not talking about commercial art, but rather our everyday experience of color, texture, objects, and other art elements. It’s the relationship each of us has to everything we encounter with our senses. That’s the art that matters most because it’s transformative. It’s an aspect of reality we create through our awareness and reflection.

I have seen amazing art around the world, but the greatest treasure is the art my son Bryan made growing up in Minnesota. His collection of doodles, drawings, early water paintings, and a small ceramic holder all sit quietly in a box in my home. The collection is more meaningful to me than those precious things in The Louvre. I peak inside the box, but mostly, I’m touched by a connection I feel to our artistic natures. It’s a connection that links everyone.

Creativity expands when we realize the fork in the road is only one perspective and possibly an illusion.

Perhaps the fork is more like a spider web with many paths linking us from where we stand to what’s possible tomorrow or the next day. It’s okay to go into reverse or take the path a second time. Maybe it’s not even about this or that, right or wrong, good or bad, or even learning to live a less prescribed life? Maybe it’s about the simple joy of the journey?