Voice of Choices Magazine

The

Voice Choices OF

Celebrating Life!

May 2011 Features

Monthly VOICE OF CHOICES Magazine Publisher: Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde’ Lowden VoiceOfChoicesNews@yahoo.com 206-715-2824 9011 Corbin Dr #B Everett, WA 98204 www.VoiceOfChoices.com Whether you define ‘spirit’ as enthusiasm or spirituality, Voice of Choices supports you in exploring the many options for creating and enjoying your life! We feature articles on alternative healing, personal development, spirituality and a wide range of topics focused on spirited living.

Giving voice to the myriad of choices available in each moment, information is not intended for diagnosis, treatment, or prescription regarding disease, illness or injury. We recommend you see a licensed health practitioner if you have concerns about your health.

Voice of Choices is not responsible for any situations arising from participation in or application of anything written or advertised in this publication.

We welcome your contribution of articles and artwork, to be published on approval as space permits. Articles do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher.

Subscriptions to are $30.00 per year 12 issues U.S. - Inquire for International rates) We accept MC/ Visa, Paypal and Personal Checks.

Thank you for all your good work.

Blessings in all your choices.

Nam Myoho Renge Kyo

4 What is? Finding Peace Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde’ Lowden 5 Family Dynamics - Signals for Inner Healing Julie Hutslar 6 Create the Peace You Deserve - Discover the Power Within YOU! Marisa Russo 8 Emotional Abuse - You Deserve Healthy Relationships Kasara D’Elene, MS, LMHCA 10 May Astrological Influences Carol Barbeau 11 Meditation - Connecting to Our True Self Sarah Finney 12 Manifesting Your Desires -Message From Mother Mary Raven Many Voices 12 Visualizing Healing - Trust the Process Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid 13 Rock Talk - Hypersthene Cecilia Ray 15 Healing Tones - Adding Sound to Your Daily Practice Kriss Erickson. MAC

Cover Art - Raphael - ‘Empathy’

From the - Angels of Atlantis - Oracle Cards by Stewart Pearce Illustrated by Richard Crookes - This card reminds of of the simplicity of the beautiful lotus - symbol of enlightenment and compassion. www.FindhornPress.com

Blessings

From the

Publisher

What Is? Finding Peace May Day! May Day! May Day! It was many years ago on a 95 foot crab boat heading into Yakutat Alaska that my skpper put out the emergency call for assistance. The hull of the boat punctured ‘we’ were also taking on water over the decks. The ‘survival suit drill’ the week before came in handy, as we donned the heavy outer ‘skin’ and launched our well outfitted survival raft. I learned many things that early January morning.

One major concept was if you ever have to abandon ship you jump as far out from the boat as you can. The vessel may list to one side, a vaccum created as it does and going ‘down’ with what may end up being a sinking ship is what you’re trying to avoid.

Esther Hicks and Jerry Hicks - sharing channeled information featured in the movie ‘The Secret’ offer many videos online which explain the Power of Attraction we put in action as we decide consciously what we want to create in our lives.

It is human approach life with a hidden agenda. We can easily ‘connect’ with the reality/illusion of what we already believe to be true. Our ‘story’ - our beliefs combined with memories and emotion - set a tone for what we expect. When we get caught up in the thoughts running through our heads it can be difficult to see or create any other experience. And yet - our own version of reality never totally matches up with anyone else. Why not begin to shift our agenda? What would it be like to stop expecting more of the same?

How could our lives change if we truly begin to step into our own power, direct our thoughts, choose our emotions and start the ball rolling to manifest what best serves us?

I’ve been working alot lately with the Hawaiian Ho’Oponopono concepts. I Love YOU. I AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. Thank YOU. This process is used to untie the entangled connections created in our minds and hearts - which then play out as we interpret the world around us. Again watch the Voice of Choices Magazine page on Facebook for videos, blogs and music that can explain, in depth and offer you more tools should you choose to try them.

So it is May - a month beginning with celAdventure - yes - my life has been filled ebrating those who birthed us and coming with amazing opportunities to learn and to a close as we remember those who’ve grow. As my choices became less ‘wild’ passed on. Our relationships with others can the opportunities didn’t stop. Almost 30 seem to bloom out of synch with our needs. years later I am reminded that, while I And what if the lessons shared don’t have may not see it at the time, life is always an expiration date. What if it is always an pushing me to the next best expression of option to ‘wake up’ and discover a new gift myself. It may not feel like a gift.... or of love we may have overlooked? even a blessing - at the time when reality So, as I call up my own memories of a cold shifts and you discover you must jumpdark morning in the early 1980’s - I still reor reap the unique set of circumstances not always defined as ‘rewards’ by stay- My 2009 Poinsettia - Chrismas 2010 all green. Beginning member taking someone else’s word and ing a course that has fulfilled its value. bloom for Easter. Maybe full flower for Mother’s Day? following a course that ‘should’ have created smooth sailing. As my own inner This month’s articles offer great knowing refused to be silent and in the ideas for bouying you up in stormy seas -and maybe a bit of a re- face of fear that the directions I was given were definitely not creatality check to help decide whether ‘where’ you are is a situation ing the desired outcome - I attempted to avert what was to come. No you’d like to continue co-creating. Julie Hutslar opens our eyes to one could hear the level of concern in my voice and action was too the ‘gifts’of our closest relationships. If our lives are about personal slow in coming to avoid the outcome. There was never any personal growth, our families and ‘intimate’ friends could be here to help us blame associated with an event beyond my control. Each participant shift into more honestly expressing ourelves and building respect filled in the story had a level of respons- ability which ultimately created a interactions. Australian Healer Marisa Russo will be in the Seattle and challenging situation no one wanted.

Portland areas - don’t miss her article and free talks sharing healing techniques that have worked wonders in assisting many as they dis- It is interesting that I can sometimes detect a similar theme playing cover their own power. Kasara D’Elene shares on a topic very close to out in my life today; somehow believing that ‘instructions’ meant my own heart. Emotional and verbal abuse can be devastating. Her to guide are set in stone, unchangeable and to be followed ultimately study of the subject may shed light on an issue rarely talked about - and without question..... right up to a point where my ‘buttons’ are pushed and I find myself having to change course, ask for help and and in many ways more harmful to the psyche than physical abuse. open to letting go of an agenda which does nothing to serve the curVoice of Choices exists to bring you inspiration and information. rent situation.

AND what if, with a shift of perception, we choose to look at the aspects of our life which seem to create fear, conflict and unease as tools So I choose to continue my Ho’Oponopono work. I love YOU. I we can use to enrich our lives and fine tune our personal vibration? AM sorry. Please Forgive ME. Thank YOU. I cannot know what Could it be we can best define our direction when we discover we are life holds in store. If I continue to hold an opinion about myself or anyone else that claims ‘blame’ or suggests purposeful wrongdoingnot where we want to be? the only one that feels the effects of those judgments is me.

Everything in our world IS vibration. Sound, light, atoms, molecules, thoughts... everything, beginning with the tiniest particle is in mo- What if the people and events in my life that seem to be ‘pushing tion. As for creating our reality by taking charge of our thinking, my buttons’ are here to assist me in dropping an agenda that no thoughts create attitude. Attitude attracts to us similar attitude and longer serves? Maybe I can begin to discover a new way to ‘Find voila’ that fleeting idea crossing your consciousness which gives Peace’ with What Is. you a reason to smile. We attract a very different response from oth- Blessings in all your Choices - Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and Mahalo Kathy ‘Whyte Wynde ’ Lowden ers when the choice is to interact with than a less positive attitude.

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Family Dynamics

Signals for PersonalGrowth Julie Hutslar In working with individuals in personal growth for many years, it’s beyond obvious that nothing lights up your hottest buttons like family. And why not? They are main characters in your passion play. Soul partners in many cases, you choose to play roles that are challenging and difficult to those you love and they with you. However, when you get stuck in the ego muck of the drama, you forget that you contracted this. In fact, that you are the writer, director, producer and main actor/ actress of your own story. Other individuals don’t have the stomach or the tenacity to play the role of the one forcing you into your biggest learning. Others would call uncle and say they love you too much to see you suffer. Not so with the tenacious loved ones called mother, father, sister, brother, or child. So what can you do to ease the pain?

Garner your lesson. Oh, that. Oh, ok, sure, that was easy. Yeah, I’ll just get the lesson I’ve been struggling with for 50 years. NOT. What if you had the teacher’s key? That would help, right? What if you started out by knowing they weren’t your greatest enemy, and in many cases, you truly DO love them, they just challenge the bejezus out of you, but they were your greatest soul fan? This takes the personal sting out of it.

Then, you look for signals to take you to your greatest healing.

Signals, what are signals? Signals are behaviors you enact when you are either with this challenging person, or that come upon you when you are being faced with the stress they present. This could be rubbing your shoulders, massaging your temples, incessant talking, total lethargy, chewing your nails, headaches, back pain, wringing your hands, staring blankly out into space or withdrawing inside. Any of these sound familiar? These are signals. They tell you that underneath is something you are avoiding and it has nothing whatsoever to do with anyone else.

Let’s say you have an encounter with your mother. She lights you up, you feel she is harping on an old subject, whatever, it doesn’t matter what it is. Your light is on. Your signal is activated loud and clear, you couldn’t even hear a train crossing at this point. This is your cue.

Pause. Silently ask yourself these questions: What do I really want to say or do? Who do I want to hear me? What is going on underneath that I am avoiding? What part of me feels uncomfortable and why? Is there something I have not asked that you (the you behind the signal) would like to offer?

Be available to hearing something you are not expecting. Be available to sense or feel something or even get an image that might be helpful.

Not everyone gains their wisdom through aural or hearing means. You

can receive it via sensations, pains, symbolism, seeing written words in front of you, a phrase from a song, or a knowing. Of course, there are many more, but the idea here is to be available to listening in all ways. Is there a dominant you that steps forward? A teenager who never got heard? A wife that was too acquiescing? A boy that was laden with too much too soon?

Remember, this exercise is about you exclusively. Even though your behavior might be in response to someone else, we are looking for what it is in you that wants out, what is it in you that your contracted soul mate is working overtime to help you hash out?

Most likely you are going to find a belief, a perception or a way of seeing things that no longer serves you underneath all the hand wringing. Your non-consciously held beliefs are what govern your story, so if something is limiting your co-creating (such as, I am not worthy of being heard, it’s better to be quiet and small than risk death or punishment by shining too brightly, or I am incapable) then it needs to come out before you can expand your world. But how?

Someone or something triggers you into taking action. Why would you go looking for something you don’t know you have until it becomes unbearable to continue living the way you are?

Bottom line, follow your signals, they will guide you to your own deepest healing. Be prepared to hear a part of you that needs to be heard, that needs to be healed, that wants to be integrated. Look her/ him (whatever part of you that needs your attention) square in the eyes and hold her/his hands. Offer the bigger picture, let them know those fears are not still real, offer them the love only you can generate and be prepared to return as often as you need. Make the time to listen to you, to pay attention to the signals that say you are uncomfortable and find out why. Then step into them as they step into you, bring them with you, integrate that part of you that got stuck in a time bubble. Miraculously, your challenging family member will either find another lesson to assist you with, or your dynamic will shift altogether. But the impetus is you~ loving you, loving being you and being more loving.

Julie Hutslar is the author of The Mask, the Mirror and the Illusion and Relationships: Gifts of the Spirit. She is a practitioner of Core Belief Restructuring and leads Women’s Spiritual Retreats. Visit her web site at www.

JRHutslar.com.

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Create The Peace You Deserve Discover The Power Within YOU Marisa Russo As life moves forward it seems to provide less security, peace and certainty. Peace is obtainable in your life; you just need to look within yourself first. You are the creator of your life. You can harness and manage the powers within.

When you reach that peaceful and centred place within yourself; your life will flow and your intuitive instincts will be heightened. You will feel and experience a cloak of protection and guidance to keep your mind at peace. You will feel your life flow in a path that protects, heals and enhances you.

You will have stretched, challenged and pushed your beliefs so that you know you can surrender and trust that all will be well. You will learn that the vibration within you will mould your surroundings and experiences to match it.

Addressing your fears is where you begin your journey to creating this powerful self. Your fears may consist of; the unknown, natural disasters, other people, death and suffering; health and safety; loss of income, food, and possessions. Each person in this world is unique, finding your own individual fears and their causes will help you on this journey.

You may fear what is and the potential of what may come. Understanding that your vibration attracts what you focus on, reminds you that you are the creator and designer of your life, so you are creating every minute of the day.

Releasing Fear.....

Andrea, a client, lived in fear her whole life. When a

stressful situation would arise in her life, it would overwhelm her. Andrea pursued many avenues to find relief, such as travelling to India to live amongst the Buddhists, spending hours meditating and attending spiritual workshops, etc.. All these experience still left her void of peace. When Andrea finally realised that her low self worth was keeping her stuck and that she deserved more, her life began to change. When I removed the unwanted negative connections with people and situations from Andrea’s past, it gave her the internal peace she had been longing for. This peace came from within and not from an external source.

Remember When.....

Remember a time in your life when you felt connected to the feeling of peace and joy. Was it the moment your child was born, or holding a baby and feeling their pure essence? Was it a moment when you locked eyes with an animal and you sensed they knew you? Or a moment when you received a life changing message that brought tears of joy to your eyes? A time when you loved so much that nothing else existed in your world? What was the moment that has forever imprinted on your heart, a moment that you will always cherish when you recall it?

Let Go ....

There is a mistaken belief that controlling your life and others keeps you safe and reduces stress. This only increases stress as life is forever reminding you that you cannot control it. Analyse all your fears from your past, receive healing and let them go. Trusting and surrendering to life allows you to connect and influence the direction life can take you. Life will always prove you to be correct.

Details are also important in life; it is in the small details that influences final outcomes. It is similar to asking someone to paint a picture for you. The more details you give to them, the more likely they will create the picture you want.

Connect ....

To find the power within you; visualise and imagine becoming the strength of a large oak tree. The roots are

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deeply planted in the ground, immoveable in any storm. You are strong and centred and connected to heaven and earth. This connects you to all that is. Allow these energies to surge up through your feet, your legs, your torso, your chest, your arms, and then your head. Let this power release all the negative feelings and experiences that have impacted you and allow the strong and powerful energies over take you. Anchor this feeling inside you. This energy is now surging into your entire being.

arrived at the service desk, I handed over my ticket and the attendant instructed me to board the flight quickly as the gates were closing. As I boarded, I found the last available seat. On arrival to New Zealand I was able to catch a connecting flight, direct to Australia.

On reflection, I thought it was miraculous that I was permitted to board a flight for a different flight route! So many similar occurrences happen in my life, I no longer fear as I believe that everything will always work out.

My Journey ....

Blessings To You ........

I have come to a realisation that life has a natural flow. My negative upbringing kept a negative energy around me that produced negative results. I had accumulated fears from my childhood which would attract many fearful situations in my life. When I started cleaning up my life in every direction including mental, spiritual, and physical aspects, I began attracting more appealing and positive experiences in my life. When I did attract a fearful situation I would access a source of power within me to change the situation. One of these situations occurred when I was visiting in Honolulu in the middle of the peak holiday season. I missed my departing flight to Australia. The airport was full of stranded people and the service desk person politely informed me that the next available flight was in two weeks time. My initial reaction was one of fear so I changed my emotional state to be more empowered. I had overheard the word “New Zealand� mentioned in a passing conversation only minutes prior and found myself walking over to the flight desk for flights travelling to New Zealand. When I

I send blessings for angels to be with you always, for you to have your hearts longings and desires; for health and happiness to overflow in your life; that angels may always guide and protect you and lead you on a path of empowerment; to lift you to a higher place to experience pure joy; a place where time stands still and where you will discover there is so much more. Immerse yourself in abundant blessings.

Marisa Russo is founder of the Forensic Advance Healing system. She is launching her intensive workshops on the West Coast and will be appearing in Los Angeles-May 8, San Diego-May 14, Portland-May 22, Seattle-May 21, San Raphael-May 25, 28, San Francisco-May 24, 29.

SEATTLE EVENTS: May 17-Philosophy & Tea Room-Free presentation/ May 21- Crowne Plaza- Free presentation; Intensive workshop-$97 To register and tour schedule: Reserve:1-800-896-9136: www.MarisaRusso.com/vc

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Emotional Abuse:

You Deserve Healthy Relatio Relation Kasara D’Elene, M.S., LMHCA

Emotional abuse is the least talked about and most common form of abuse. Unfortunately in this society, much of what is considered normal and acceptable forms of communication are actually abusive. In our society it has been challenging to define emotional abuse, but internally when we are a victim to this behavior, we know that it does not feel good. Unfortunately, because of this thin cover of acceptance and the inability to define it adequately, many people may not realize they have been emotionally abused. Emotional abuse is often overlooked or unrecognized as compared to physical or sexual forms of maltreatment. However, emotional abuse often coexists with these other forms of abuse.

Emotional abuse has subtle patterns. No one enters a relationship knowing that they will be abused. But many victims think they can

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fix their abusers and that the abuser just needs an understanding person that can help them correctly. Unfortunately the abusers are masters of control and once a victim is caught, it can be very difficult to break free from the abuser. I can assure you that you alone, will NOT be able to “fix” the abuser. This is an impossible task for one person.

The abuser has been mastering their manipulative and controlling skills for many years and have habits of mind that make it difficult for them to imagine being in a respectful and equal relationship with a woman. The abuser is very aware of their behavior and can turn it off when it suits them; you can read more about this in Lundy Bancroft’s book “Why Does He Do That; Inside the Minds of Angry and Controlling Men.” There may be underlying psychological disorders as well which are best left to a qualified professional to assist with.

Abuse often takes a form of a rotating cycle, where the abuse happens, and then things are better for awhile and the abuser apologizes and brings gifts, then abuse happens again. Statistically there are so many women caught in this emotional abuse trap that it is disheartening. Just one of the many examples is a woman I’ll call ‘Aysha’.

Aysha talks about how Wendell abuses her, repeats himself, he swears constantly and she cannot get a word in edgewise. She finally stands up for herself forcefully and that is when he finally leaves. So you may ask, why does Wendell think Aysha is the one who has been doing all the yelling and complaining? Because in his mind, she’s supposed to be listening, not talking. If she expresses herself at all, that is too much…. Abusers often reduce their victims to inanimate objects.

Emotional abusers use abuse to control their victims with teasing, threats, aggressive demands or expectations, insults, criticism, rejection, neglect blame, emotional manipulation and control, isolation, punishment, terrorizing and ignoring. Lundy Bancroft, an expert that works with emotionally abusive men, states that the great majority [of abusers] exhibit a subtle – though often quite pervasive – sense of superiority or contempt towards [their victims]. In addition, he states that many sexual and physical abuse survivors have stated that the emotional abuse they have experienced is more devastating and has longer-term effects. In some ways manipulation is worse than overt abuse, especially when the two are mixed together. When a woman gets called a ‘bitch’, or gets shoved or slapped, she at least knows what her partner did to her. But after an [emotionally abusive] manipulative interaction she may have little idea what went wrong; she just knows that she feels terrible, or crazy, and that somehow it seems to be her own fault. In this country we have laws against other forms of abuse, unfortunately there are no laws against emotional abuse.

Many people feel trapped by their emotional abusers. They do not know how life would feel without fear, degradation and constraint.

Everyone has choices, but for those that are emotionally abused, choices are difficult to recognize in the moment or aftermath of abuse leaving the victim to feel alone and isolated believeing they have little choice at all. If you are always being controlled and manipulated it does not feel like you have choices when you have been educated that you have no power.

onships Treatment It may be difficult at first to assist an emotionally abused victim because they typically deny that they have been emotionally abused because they do not recognize the emotional trauma as abuse. When someone tries to help the abused person, the helper might inadvertently say something that triggers the abused person’s past emotional abuse which might deter them from receiving help. Abused people usually have an overtly resistant strategy with others who seem threatening or powerful. If you know someone that has been emotionally abused, it is important to not discount their feelings and the emotions they have experienced especially because their abuse is not recognized by others leaving the victim feeling isolated and alone.

Research indicates that having just one supportive person can be the saving grace for anyone suffering from emotional abuse. Interviews with survivors indicate that the most important single survival factor was that each had at least one person who gave unconditional, positive regard; someone who thought well of them and made them feel important. If you ever ask an emotional abuse survivor what helped them the most, their answer most likely will be “Someone to talk to, to listen to me, to believe me.”

One treatment for the emotionally abused is strength building techniques to build resilience. These would best be tailored to each person by discovering the inherent strengths of the person and then building upon them. The focus should be on showing the abused person how to take time for themselves, working on raising their self-esteem and helping them to learn how to be responsible for themselves.

For those of us working with someone who has experienced emotional abuse here are some tools you may find useful. If you are finding your way through a rough situation yourself these suggestions may be of assistance to you . Gentle reflection. Beginning to give more praise, and focusing on positive attributes – not the flaws. Realizing how self criticism does not help. Working on self-acceptance, and how to set reachable goals. Learing to define ourselves in new ways: gently discovering how to stop comparing ourselves to others, and develop an understanding of how to stop seeing ourselves in all-or-nothing terms. It is also important that we/they learn how to start nurturing ourselves. This intervention can assist in how to take care of our/their body and promote the body’s ability to self heal by getting massages, manicures, and hugs.

It is important to let the client (ourselves) know that learning to empower themselves is a process and that they will continue to change and grow over time. The emotionally abused person has, in the past ,developed a reliance on the abuser to telling them how they are feeling, what they like, and what their worth and value is as a person. As the abused person learns to look internally as opposed to externally, gaining self-reliance will help them begin a journey of improvement.

Emotionally abused victims experience various forms of loss that may not be obvious. These may include a loss of spontaneity, loss of enthusiasm, a loss of how they come across to others and the loss of being an important human being. Victims also have a loss of self-confidence, loss of not being like others, loss of healthy relationships, an inability to come to conclusions, a loss of happiness, loss of feeling safe, of being worthwhile and the loss of knowing they have power over their own life.

abuse. Working to acknowledge the deep wounds and the subsequent grief from each loss can take considerable time. Uncovering each loss can be a lot of work. Part of the process of recovery is the grieving of loss, and part of the grieving of loss is the recovery of the spirit. In life, much of what one grieves one never had.

One researcher stated for example, the partner may realize she was never accepted by her mate [or parent] because of their overwhelming need to control and dominate her. Her grief would be an acknowledgement that a human need was not met – a value not attained. She could not feel this kind of loss – the loss of what she never had – unless her spirit knew its needs and rights. In this sense, grief is the conscious acknowledgement and realization of what the spirit already knows.

Through grief we consciously become aware of a value of the spirit and by grieving the loss, we recover in such a way that we integrate that value. Thus we become more whole. When the victim of verbal abuse realizes that she was not loved, only controlled, she grieves the lack of love because she knows that she is lovable. Through that process she gains [the reality of] self-esteem. She knows that she is worthy of love and respect.

A woman may never fully heal from the abuse she has experienced.

But because she remembers and when she becomes empowered, she will not suffer the agony again. She won’t be able to erase the wounds of abuse like pencil marks on the paper, but she will feel stronger from the scar tissue covering them. Some milestones she may achieve include: fewer nightmares, less fear, increased self-confidence, greater skill in taking charge of her own affairs, feeling less of being a victim, and more the strength of a survivor, enjoying life more with her family and friends, learning to laugh again, to have fun, play and spend time in nature, changing from the rigidity of her previous life to the spontaneity of freedom, and feeling kinship with all people who suffer.

Because it is difficult for the emotionally abused to articulate what has happened to them, it has taken many years for this concept to be brought forth to professionals that can help do something about it. Fortunately we know now that it is possible to define emotional abuse, and the power differentials between the abuser and the emotionally abused. Now it is a matter of getting this information out to the public to prevent future generations from experiencing the effects of emotional abuse. If you recognize any of this for yourself or someone else, please get help.

Kasara D’Elene owns TruHealth, a health food store in the MiCreek/Bothell area. She has helped empower and educate thousands of people to optimum health. You can reach her at 425-415-8410 www.truhealth.com

I AM Worthy of being loved for the beautiful human being I AM

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Happy Birthday Taurus and Gemini Sun Signs May 2011 brings us into a time of richness and a theme accepting what we cannot change and making the changes which are possible, and not grousing too much about either end of this. We begin the month with a very unusual arrangements of planets. Usually by this time of year TAURUS energy is the main theme but beginning May 2011 we have The moon, Uranus, Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars still riding the fast lane in Aries. The express shuttle for change and moving forward does not really begin to slow until the 11th and by the 15th we have incorporated more steady and fixed earth energy.

Meanwhile we begin in the fast lane with changes all around us and a very strong need to try and understand what is happening. Last months Mercury retrograde opposing Saturn brought many of us back to the drawing table to reconfigure plans which after the 15th of this month we should more easily begin to build.

Saturn is retrograde all month in Libra so relationships are still up on the drawing table and under negotiations and with Pluto Retrograde in Capricorn many of those negotiations will be political. Watch Laws now begin to really change and the knowledge that there are powers beyond the OLD ways of doing things moving us forward past whatever obstacles try to block us.

In the early days of this month Venus the planet of love is in exact opposition to Saturn so I would advise against putting your foot down and demanding things of those you love until later in the month. We are all deciding who stays and who goes in our lives as Saturn makes its once in 30 years movement through Libra, so being aware that this early May energy could blast some of you loose is something to think about.

Many of you know that Pluto in Capricorn and Uranus wearing the sign of Aries will create a square or rough aspect with each other until 2015. Meaning that many of the rules, laws, and world changes are going to be something we have to get used to. Creating peace and calm and security midst whatever is going on around us to me seems the major task we have all taken on for our souls growth.

Many of us have learned this year that security is not money in the bank when an earthquake or war comes. What security is to me now more than ever; is friendships, connections to those who love me, and the knowledge that I can do whatever the next step requires of me.

And a sense of higher power having a plan even though I am unable to see it right now.

Lucky Colors for May are Green for growth, Pink for love and blue

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for clarity of thought, word, and deed and use the Stone Emerald to improve psychic powers, sharpen intellect, intuition, vision and memory. The plant sacred to this time is the Hawthorne also known as the May tree which blooms only in May and is used for clarity, visions and psychic ability.

The Symbol until the 21st when the sun will move to Gemini is the Bull for the sign of Taurus which is a FIXED Earth sign (Earth signs are about Building and planting) this time gives us the dedication, tenacity and the determination to build what is most important to us The Merry Month of May gets its name from Maia majestas the Grandmother goddess of spring and the roman God Mercury and May from ancient times is the month of Hand fasting or dedication to Mother Goddess uniting with God or the male energy. This is a great month to unite the Yin and yang within the self and balance your life May 1st, which is also BELTANE and a fertility time, opens us to all that is rich, luxuriant and abundant in our lives. as we reach the ½ way point of Spring 2011. So, whether you are planting ideas, projects, business, babies, relationships or just a greater sense of peace, you are planting a crop which you will harvest over the next few months so take great care this month to encourage the plants and not the weeds in your life and your mind.. As On May 1st the Moon touches Jupiter again the theme of BELIEVE and make it happen is strong with Powerful Aries (I CAN DO it energy) That NEW moon seed planting energy on May 2nd with the new moon in Taurus is about new ways of thinking, about how we can create security and maybe even what security is to us. New moons are seed planting times and This chart may 2nd, 11:51pm PDT here in Seattle certainly requires faith and trust and willingness to share and network with others. Recognition of what we value and what really matters seems very strong midst all this wild astrological energy.

Taurus is the sign of preparedness and so for many of us this will be the month we get that water, and emergency supplies and recognize that hoping for the best does not preclude preparing and being ready for whatever comes to us. Someone wrote (several) to me when I sent our a preparedness sheet that I should pray and send white light and that would fix everything. My reply was prayer, white light sends oftentimes the Red Cross and assistance. So, do both please.

Neptune newly entered into Pisces this month joins with Chiron the wounded healer bringing new ideas about healing and healthcare and some strong visions of what we need to do to heal our own issues also. BELIEVE and do the work is the theme now if you have not guessed already?

Mothers Day on the 8th this year has the moon in nurturing Cancer and some challenging aspects to Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Mars in Aries. Since I believe that Cancer is about healthy self care and these planets are in Aries, it seems that maybe it is time to honor ourselves this year along with family obligations. What do you do to Mother yourself, What do you want to do this day is the question, and can you do it and feel ok with taking care of self?

On the 11th the pace begins to slow a bit with Mars the planet of Action finally moving to Taurus and anchoring into reality and practicality comes forth strongly on this day as we are also challenged to recognize that there is more than can be seen by the naked eye which is influencing us.

On the 15th Venus, and Mercury (Love and beauty and communications) moves to Taurus and again, we get another bit of a chance to stop and take a breathe and see what is going on around us. . This day has many oppositions as again we are asked to incorporate reality and ideas, and visions with everyday life.

The full moon May 17th has a trinity of Taurus planets..Venus, Mercury and Mars sitting within 3 degrees of each other and the sun 26 Degrees away opposing the moon in Scorpio. This next 2 weeks asks us to really look at our resistances and let go where needed. If there was ever a month of seeing where you are stuck, this is the one, and the energies are attempting to help Continued bottom next page

Meditation: Connecting to Our True Self Sarah Finney

Recently, time has expanded for me. I am more available for my family, for myself, for work and for the community projects that are important to me. I know how important it is to eat well and exercise. I know that I cannot run on empty … I need water when I am thirsty, food for nourishment, and the doctor when I am unwell.

What I didn’t fully realize until recently is that I also need my daily meditation practice.

With the loving support of my family, I learned the Integrated Amrita Meditation Technique when my son was 3 years old. That was almost six years ago.

The technique was conceived by a world-renowned meditation expert, known to most as Amma or the Hugging Saint, who is based in Kerala, India. The technique was borne out of the need for greater stability and centering in our lives.

With guidance and blessings from Amma, I’ve taught this technique to others — to health care workers, social service agency staff and clients, friends and co-workers. When I see the transformation of others after they learn and practice the technique, I’m reminded of the power of meditation.

About six months ago, I realized I had been meditating because I thought I should. I stopped practicing for a while — I thought that unless I practiced every day, there would be no benefit. I guess I thought I needed a break. I missed it, but I couldn’t get back into the swing.

This break from my spiritual practice actually left me feeling like I was really missing something. I realized that I was spending time in front of

unstick you and do the work as we get real with Taurus energy.

This last few month the sky or energies of the heavens has tried to detach us from our past and old ways of thinking and now the sun in Gemini is here to help us see that there are better days coming and new ideas available after the 21st. We can have what we want if we are willing to work for it and….changes are inevitable and we have options is the message now as we learn new ways of thinking and talking and maybe even believing.

Are you living your life or is your life living you has been the lesson of the last few months and most of us truly know the answer, and now we have the energy to do something about that answer.

This 5th month of a number 4 year makes this a 9 month of endings.

My personal belief is that a belief in ourselves and our abilities is the only true safety there is. Plus a healthy dose of Higher power for some of us? So conscious connection is a strong part of the message and realizing what is yours to do and what belongs to higher power.

And what do you need to release within the mind, body, heart, which will allow you to feel and Truly KNOW this and begin to build something better in your life and in the world.

I believe that we all will discover that May 2011 will be much easier than these preceding months of 2011 have been.

As the Sun moves to Gemini. May 21stth through June 21st the Twins are our symbol. Gemini which is an Air (ideas) sign and Mutable (able to go with the flow sign). Watch your life loosen up a bit as planets enter this sign. Lucky colors for this time are ALL Colors, remember me telling you Gemini is about options.

the television or the computer during the time that I could have been meditating.

I thought that I was relaxing and recharging from my busy life, but I wasn’t. I was distracting myself from my true self. I had given up one of the most important things that keeps me connected to myself.

Recently, after spending three days at a retreat with Amma in Bellevue, Wash., I started meditating again. When I am in the physical presence of this living saint, every second is like the most deep, revitalizing meditation. My heart expands and I feel as though anything is possible. Through the grace of Amma, and with the compassion and encouragement of my fellow IAM practitioners and instructors, I have stepped back into this meditation practice.

This time, my meditation is different. I’m not meditating because I think I should, or because I want to see how many days in a row I can meditate without missing a day. I’m now meditating because it keeps me connected to Amma and to her teachings, and to my own true self.

Now I have more energy throughout the day, I feel more creative in all aspects of my life, and I seem to have plenty of time for everything … my family, myself, my work and my community.

Sarah Finney has been a disciple of Amma since 1984, and has taught the IAM Technique since 2007. This column is coordinated by Lane Interfaith Alliance to offer inspiration, share personal spiritual experiences and bring a deeper understanding of individual faith perspectives with the intention of blessing our community and the world. For information, visit www.laneinterfaithalliance.org or call 541-344-0430.

The sun moving into Gemini on the 21st opens the doorways into more ideas, great connections with others and a lighter easier feel for us all. Please let’s look at what really is important for us before we get out those tools to build.. Gemini is about the opportunity to multi task and also to find new connections and receive more information so paying attention, connecting with others, and learning something new is the best way for us to utilize this month to its highest potential..

April was difficult for many again this year as it was last year… and someone told me long ago, as I was crying about my losses and pain, “THE HEART THAT BREAKS OPEN can now be able to contain the whole Universe” So to those of you who lost something this last few weeks or months, remember to be more open and loving to others and that your heart is more open and ready to give and also receive because of your life experiences…Carl Sandburg once said “after all, A baby is Gods opinion that the world should go on, isn’t it?”

SO how about thinking about Creating your own baby this month, a project, class a new relationship, friendship, group or maybe a move for some of you. This is the month to reprocess, reconnect, repair, replace and reformat your life in order to move forward and build your future when the Sun Moves to Cancer next month.

We are here right now, at this moment because we contracted and now is the time for us to bring our talents and abilities forward joyfully. Namaste Carol Barbeau www.carolbarbeau.com for more astrology information or contact carol at carolastro@carolbarbeau.com

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VOICE OF CHOICES MAY

2011

Healing Manifesting Your Desires: Visualizing Trusting the Process Setting Intention - Allowing Change Message from Mother Mary Raven Many Voices Hello my dear children, On this day I’d like to talk of how we manifest our desires in our world around us. Now more then ever the desires of the heart are playing out so quickly. This need of fast manifestation is wondrous! A prayer or desire from the heart is instantly placed in front of you, with pure intention one’s energy is directed to the purpose one follows.

When we are in unconsciousness or resistance this slows the energy of manifesting. One must be in a place of trust to allow for change.

It is just like a child who wants a broken toy fixed by the parent but unwilling to let go. With tears in their eyes they cry for their teddy bear’s eye to be sewn back on, back too afraid to let go. So too you request for change but unwilling to let it go to Divine. We are ever patient as you request again and again, but now we ask you all to let go and allow for whatever form we bring you this prayer in.

Manifesting has two parts: the giving of the intention (prayer) and the receiving of the energy (allowing). The prayer is a focusing and understanding in what you want to manifest. It is allowing a time to become clear and centered with what desires are in the heart. Once you become focused in your desire (change) you then give us this desire to manifest.

The second part of manifesting your desires is to receive and allow it to flow into your life. Once you have attended the feelings and desires of this shift you then let it flow from you into the universe. It is in this matter that manifesting occurs as energy is blended to produce this new experience. As these energies blend they form a new experience not exactly as you may have pictured it. Allowing yourself to receive moves the energy into your life quicker and without resistance.

I would like each of you to pick one thing in your life you’d like to change or manifest now. Be very focused in what you want. Write exactly your desires and purpose for this change. You’ll then pray for this change everyday in the morning with a few words and then let it go to be played out within the day. Be observant but not forceful for this change. Do not be surprised if it is answered within a days time.

Above all please be patient with yourself if you reach a place of resistance as this exercise will help you to reveal fear. And my beloveds have fun with your manifesting. Each of you hold the power of creation. It is now time to use it more effectively.

Namaste’ Mother Mary Raven Many Voices ~ Guide to the Spirits channels loving messages from Mother Mary and your Spirit Guides. Visit www.RavenMedium.com for more messages.

VOICE OF CHOICES

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MAY

2011

Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid As I sit at home, watching night slowly roll in, like watching a beautiful curtain come down on the glorious day that just passed (after weeks of rain, a day with a blue sky and sunshine was like a present from the Goddess), I am once again reminded of my body’s ability to heal itself. Getting over another case of bronchitis---part of living in the Northwest seems to be having to once in a while put up with respiratory issues---I know deeply that the body’s wisdom of taking it slow, at times, is a good path to follow. True, this isn’t the ‘fun part’, but it’s part of the process, and I’m committed, as long as I’m in this body, to trust that process.

So, instead of over medicating my symptoms with anti-biotics in the way of Western medicine, I use my time tested home remedies, knowing I will be even better this time, and stronger for letting my own immune system do it’s thing. This is the same way I’m slowly moving into what I think of as the late autumn/early winter of my life; that time of life I’ve known all of my life would someday arrive, and end my girlhood, my wilder, youthful sallies. With herbs, and listening to my body’s own inner wisdom. Trusting my body’s process, which is the process of nature around me, to move in a natural rhythm closer toward whatever purpose the universe has in mind for my future.

I guess, as I watch the aftermath of the ongoing tragedy in Japan, I also use this same method---trusting nature’s truth to rebuild what is broken, or unwell--to visualize a healthy future for the people who survived the devastation. I know, that with time, all of the deep wounds left by nature will heal and the loss will be filled in with new gifts and new life.

This point of view is how I think all of us can move from any form of grieving, or situation of change, into a vision that is healthy and nourishing. It can be applied to all events, whether personal or global and work to heal each of us and also our planet.

Just as I use nature’s healing power to heal my body, letting time and natural medicine do their job, using empowered visualization and the vibrations of love instead of fear, we can help Japan to heal and we can change the destructive course our society seems bent on. We can each be a beacon of light, working from our own lives, outward to reach better decisions that make us better neighbors, partners and universal beings on a multi-layered journey back to The Source Of All Things That Are Light and Love.

We can change our mindset of fear and violent confrontation to one of acceptance, tolerance and growth, knowing we all have the right to everything good and wonderful the universe has to give.

So, as I move slowly toward the end of my ‘girlhood’, and closer to that crone self that’s been waiting like a good friend, just on the edge of my consciousness, I am learning new lessons. Particularly that of patience in the process and of loving my body’s wisdom and ability to heal through anything, even another case of bronchitis. This lesson is teaching me that everything broken or ill, can be healed and made better. To me, this is the best thing, the ‘up’ side, if you will, of getting sick in the first place.

Rajkhet Dirzhud-Rashid has over 20 years experience doing tarot, past life readings and in the last four years, discovered she had the gift of being a medium. Find her second Saturdays at Venus Moon in Renton, and on the full moon, at The Cuff in Seattle. Available for private readings and parties she can be reached at: 206-443-3856, or ijanaral@yahoo. com

With a name like Hypersthene, my guess is that you would immediately relate it to action. The hyper means ‘over’ and the sthene means ‘strength.’ This combination of meanings would indicate that this stone is a mover and a shaker, and it is, on a deep level.

Before we delve into its attributes, let’s talk a bit about the stone’s physical qualities. Hypersthene, also known at Eulite, is a blackish or dark greenish color with a bronze luster caused by the cleavage being at right angles.

It has the appearance of having stripes, a little like tigers eye It has a hardness of 5-6 making it suitable for tumbling and cabochons. There are several places where it is found – The Adirondack Mountains of New York, around Mount St. Helens, in England, in the Nordic areas, and in the Czech Republic. One source I found said that Bronzite is a form of Hypersthene.

When it comes to the attributes and powers associated with Hypersthene, I love what Melody wrote in Love is in the Earth. She said that is can be “used to stimulate contact

Hypersthene with the ‘solution planes’ of existence.” Isn’t that what most people are seeking at this time of change? She went on to tell how answers come quickly with Hypersthene whether you are in a meditative state or not. I am all for that.

Back to the strength part – Melody talks of how it helps one to “stand up” for what is right. Michael’s Gemstone Dictionary mentions using it to reduce the fear of public speaking and being in public view. It seems a perfect stone for the metaphysician who wants to speak about the changes happening.

Interestingly, of the seven books I checked, Melody and Michael were the only ones to include it. There were some internet sources but basically they said the same things.

I sat in meditation with a piece of Hypersthene to see what it thought about all of this.

Immediately I heard “stand up and be counted.” The image I saw was of a leader standing on a ledge with a crowd standing behind him on a sloping terrain. The image gave me

PAGE 13

the sense that the leader was looking beyond the present at things to come.

For over a month I have packed a piece of Hypersthene around with a piece of Nuummite and Seraphinite. During that time, I took a stand on some issues, felt pushed to resolve some problems, and made some important decisions. I am amazed at the conviction and awareness that has been there. I am not one to make claims, but I must consider the possibility that Hypersthene and his two buddies played a role.

Are you ready to face a problem, resolve an issue, or stand up for what you believe? How about including Hypersthene and see what happens.

Cecilia Ray, owner of World of Gaia, a rock business on www.WorldofGaia.net and ebay, reads stone energies. She also owns Mystical Winds, a company coordinating Psychic Fair and Events.

425-239-0565 or www.MysticalWinds.net.

VOICE OF CHOICES MAY 2011

EVENTS

SPIRIT MASTERS OF SHAMBALA EXPO-Free EXPO -Free Event May 7. 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

BEALTINA- May 1st -Check the website to confirm location. www.caerpugetia.com Open to all, free of charge, we welcome offerings of Poetry, Song, Dance, Acoustic Music, and (Brief) Stories.

FIRST

THURSDAY

Tower Memorial Spiritualist Church, 2116 W. Dravus St., Seattle. Celebrate relationships with Spirit Guides, Angels, and Ascended Masters.

Readings, healing, discussions with Clairvoyants. TowerMemorialSpiritualistChurch.org for flyer

MONTHLY-

Luncheon at One World Spokane 1803 E. Sprague. Third Thursday 7pm meeting at Compass Rose 9803 E. Sprague.Visit the web site www.spokaneholisticchamberofcommerce. org/

FORENSIC HEALING SYSTEM: Resolving The Real Cause Of Pain And Stress with Master Australian Healer, Marisa Russo.

A rare opportunity to experience a Master Healer in person debuting her unique healing modalities in America . Marisa Russo has been dubbed, ‘The Sherlock Holmes of Healing’ for her ability to scientifically and intuitively read the body as she investigates the cause and circumstances around any physical, emotional and spiritual condition.

May 17-Philosophy & Tea Room-Free presentation/ May 21- Crowne PlazaFree presentation Intensive workshop-$97 Reserve: 1-800-896-9136. www.marisarusso.com/vc

RISING SPIRALS REIKI PSYCHIC & HOLISTIC HEALTH FAIRS Free Admission 10-5p,. Kent 1st Sat. monthly Browser’s Books-315 W. Meeker St. MILL CREEK - BOTHELL 2nd Sat monthly at Grange Hall corner of 35th Ave. SE & Seattle Hill Rd. From 1-5 head east on 164th St. SW til it crosses 35th. Bel-Red Fair at Friends, Philosophy & Tea. 13850 Bel-Red Rd, Bellevue, Wa 98005 (South side of Applebees) 425-641-4364. West Seattle - 4th Sat Emerald Spiral Co-op 5910 SW California 98136 www.NWPsychic Fairs.com or call 425-562-4777 for info/directions.

COMBINE A CLASSIFIED AD WITH A DIRECT CLICK through link at www.

VoiceOfChoices.com 206-715-2824 VoiceOfChoicesNews@yahoo.com

VOICE OF CHOICES

PAGE 14

All levels Reiki classes, one-on-one sessions. Crystal, Karuna, Acutonics sessions available. Reiki shares first Wednesday and third Saturday each month. Call Kriss, 425-265-9921 or slverkriss.tripod.com.. slverkriss.tripod.com

MORE GOOD STUFF WORLD OF GAIA – Look up your stones. Free access to online METAPHYSICAL CRYSTAL & STONE GUIDE, www.

WorldofGaia.net. We carry crystals, tumbled stones, animal totems, more. Wholesale, Retail, Online, Shows. Cecilia@WorldofGaia. net or 425-239-0454.

MAY

2011

WANTED - READERS AND VENDORS for Psychic and Alternative Health Fairs. Great opportunity to network and show your products and services to the public. Call Lori 425-562-4777

Healing Tones Adding Sound to Your Daily Practice Kriss Erickson, MAC As a Reiki practitioner, I ask the vibrational tones of the Universal energy of Reiki and other frequencies to interact with my clients’ energy. This allows for deep inner communication that opens the pathways to healing.

While Reiki has its own unique vibration, I found that some clients were unable to sense the vibrational aspects and connect deeply with the healing energies of the Universe.

Since one of my main goals in sharing and raising awareness about Reiki is selfempowerment, I thought that adding vibrational tones to the Reiki sessions would help people to make a vital connection between their own unique energy and the healing energy of the Universe.

So I began incorporating tones into Reiki sessions. This can be done in several ways, some of which can easily be incorporated into meditation and self-healing sessions.

One way to incorporate sound into your daily meditative time is by using your voice.

For example, if you have low back pain, a helpful focus point would be your Sacral Chakra, located an inch or two below your belly button.

Place your hands on your Sacral Chakra, either both hands in front or one in the front and one on your back, at the hips and hum or tone sounds. It’s helpful to have the ego and logical mind out of the way when toning. Logic may insist, for instance, that you believe you can’t sing or that you don’t know what tones to use.

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Let go and trust the Universe to guide you in what tones to use. You’ll be amazed at the beautiful sounds coming from your very own throat. Singing and toning is also good for your diaphragm muscle, right below your rib cage, that supports your voice and gives strength to your Throat Chakra to help you speak your truth..

Another way to add healing tones to your daily self-healing practice is to sing to the part of your body or soul that needs attention. When I stubbed my toe, for example, I immediately reached down and wrapped my hands around the painful toe. I started singing to it as well.

As with toning, just let whatever words and melody come out that want to come. I sang something like, “Oh, poor little toe! I’m so sorry I bumped you! I hope you will feel better soon. I love you. I care about you. I promise to take better care of you in the future. Thank you, toe!”

Another way to use tones in your daily life is to use bells or singing bowls. Bells come in all sizes from tiny bells that you can tie onto a string, to medium-sized “jingle bells” that make a bright, cheerful tone, to large bells with lower tones.

Bells are fairly inexpensive so are a good choice to begin your toning collection. Singing bowls are usually made of copper or crystal. A small copper bowl may cost $30 or so, a small crystal bowl may cost up to $100.

Copper bowls have pure, bright tones and “sing” well when rubbed with the wooden stick that is included with the bowl. These bowls don’t tend to continue singing unless you are actively rubbing the bowl.

Crystal bowls are usually made from quartz.

They range in tone from a C all the way up the scale. Their tones can be clear and bright or rich and throbbing. Once you get a crystal bowl to sing, its vibrations continue for one to several minutes, sending healing tones deep into your body.

Another way to add healing tones to your daily self-healing practice is to use tuning forks.

As an Acutonics ™ Level II practitioner, I use medical-grade tuning forks to send tones di-

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rectly into the body. Medical-grade tuning forks are tuned to correspond to the notes of each Chakra, which are tuned to the vibrations that come from the Universe. The tuning forks look a little like piano tuning forks, but often have weighted ends. When activating a tuning fork, use a rubber pad called an activator to produce the strongest tones and to protect your body.

If you choose to purchase tuning forks, you can use them one at a time on your own body, though they’re usually used in pairs of notes called intervals when used in a healing session. Usually the Ohm or C# fork is used in combination with another fork. The intervals used are thirds, fifths, sixths, sevenths and octaves.

As you can see, there are many ways to add the healing support of vibrational tones to your daily life. Adding healing tones to your daily meditative or healing practice can help you to be more deeply connected to the healing energies of the Universe.

Kriss Erickson is an Acutonics Level II Practitioner, Certified Counselor, Usui, Karuna ™, Crystal, Lightarian Level III & Atlantean Reiki Master Teacher, Reconnective Level II Practitioner, Freelance Writer/Artist/Singer, and backyard herbalist. http://slverkriss.tripod.com/

VOICE OF CHOICES MAY

2011

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