Stop The Negativity - Please!

Let me say right now that this post may turn out to be a rant, because I am a bit upset. And yes, I do realize that if I were allow it to turn out that way, it would be completely contrary to the point of the message behind this post.

*Deep Breath*

I have to say that I am really bothered by people who find a way to cast shadow on every positive message or post.  This happens all of the time on Facebook.  Today for example, someone wished Prince George a Happy 1st Birthday and immediately there are negative comments. Either about their personal disdain for the Royal Family, or comments about the lack of spotlight on starving children around the world, or the crisis in Gaza. I mean. C'mon!!!

What is that about? Why?!?!?  Why can't a post just be about that sentiment.  If someone (in this case) takes the time to acknowledge a milestone of a first birthday of a BABY - why can't that be enough? It was on that person's heart to send good energy to that precious child. Let it be just that. Why feel the need to muddy it up with the darkness in your own heart?

Who cares if you don't personally like the Royal family?  What does that have to do with a sweet innocent baby celebrating a 1st birthday?

Starving children around the world, and the dying children in Gaza - are horrific tragedies.  But, again, what does that have to do with this baby?

Are we saying that because horrific things are happening around the world that we should not celebrate a birthday? Are we saying that because there is suffering - there should not be rejoicing in the good things? Are we saying that we cannot celebrate, embrace and show love until every single person on the planet is well?

Wouldn't that be lovely.  Do you hold to that standard on your birthday?  Do you carry that with you when you go out to ring in the New Year?

I mean, c'mon!!!!  Yes! It is awful that wars, and illness exist. It is a travesty that children get caught in the crossfire. Clearly I am not saying that we should not give proper attention to that.  However, does that diminish every single good moment in life? Is that not then evil winning over good?

Sounds a bit counter-productive to me.

And then there are the people who will say - there are children all over the world having a birthday today - but because they are not famous, we don't wish them a Happy Birthday.  True.  To a point.  I'm quite certain that each one of us do indeed wish anyone around the world a Happy Birthday, whether they are known or unknown.  If you happen upon a stranger, and discover it is their birthday, do you not then offer them well wishes on their day?  Does that mean that if we are aware of a 'famous' person's birthday we should not also wish them a Happy Birthday, if we are so moved?

And if we are not moved to do so. That is fine.  Fabulous.  But why do people who are not moved to share in the sentiments, feel the need to poo-poo the ones who are?  This happens every single day online.  You see a post, you do not share the sentiment of the post, and rather than just scrolling past it and moving on with your day, you feel the need - the necessity - to stop your life - and spread negative garbage all over that particular thread.  WHY?!?!?!

Have we not yet learned about rebound energy? Have we forgotten that what we put out there comes back to us - ten fold?  Have we forgotten that if we purposely go around dumping our garbage on everyone else, that surely goodness will not come our way?  Have we forgotten that it is our Divine duty to embrace one another, even in such a simple way as wishing one another good will?

It is my great hope that each of us will take the time to remember how it feels when someone takes time from their day to send us good thoughts or energy. How nice it is to have our special moments in life acknowledged.  And how easy it is to extend love to our fellow human beings.

Please remember, to treat others, the way we, ourselves, would want to be treated.

With that, let me wish you the absolute best in whatever milestone you are celebrating today!

Love and Light

-Laura

In The Rain

One of my favorite things to do when I was younger was to play in the rain. It was refreshing to walk around and splash in the puddles as you got soaked to the bone. And because you were young, you didn't care about your hair being mussed. 

It was fresh. It was freeing. And because the majority of people were running for shelter - trying to stay dry, the solitude was awesome. It was just you and nature. Even the sound of the cars were drowned out by the downpour and you were left alone with only the sound of the rain and your thoughts. 

My mother use to think I was crazy. It would be raining cats and dogs and I would excitedly head out the door. Mom would ask where I was going - "In to the rain." was my reply. I think she secretly got a kick out of it. I am never quite sure she ever understood. And that was okay. As an adult, I now see how easy it is to think my younger self to be crazy.  

But we are conditioned that way, aren't we? After all, what is the song we are all taught as children.... Rain, rain, go away, come again another day. Well, what is wrong with today? We see rain as being intrusive. An inconvenience. Rain delays in the ballgame, having your wedding rained out, indoor recess due to the rain. I ask you, what is really wrong with getting wet? Will we never dry off again? 

We are trained to care about things that really don't matter. We are in such a rush to get to some place - any place other than the one we are currently in at that moment. We are worried about our precious shoes and Lord forbid we get our hair wet! Or our eyeliner smudges! What would people think? 

I think that is what I love about the rain. The rain does not care about your perceived image. It is nature's baptism. It has a way of washing away the old, the dirty, the unnecessary. Leaving everything clean, anew. Including the one who dares to just stop and be still under it's showers.

How wonderful it would be if as adults we made it a priority to get back in touch with our inner-child. To give ourselves permission to be care-free. To forget the hustle and bustle. To not worry about our hair. To not care who might be watching as we dare to dance within the rhythm of the rain.

Happy Martin Luther King Day

Although Martin Luther King Day is officially celebrated in the United States, I believe that it should be recognized world-wide! And that every man, woman and child should be aware of that powerful and important historic speech given in Washington on August 28th, 1963.

If you have not yet taken the time to listen to the words of the 'I have a dream' speech, please take a few minutes to listen to it now.

Happy Martin Luther King Day!

The "Count Your Blessings" Jar

One of the things that I am planning for 2014 is a Count Your Blessings jar and thought that I would share this not-so-new idea with those of you who may not have thought about this. Or maybe you have heard of this wonderful idea and have thought about doing it, and perhaps just never got it started.

2014 is 5 days away, which gives you ample time to find your Blessings jar.  Whether it is an old coffee pot, a vase, a canister, cookie jar, mason jar, a keepsake box, make it special, make it yours!  And as each day passes, keep your special jar in mind and jot down the special moments you experience throughout the year.

Special gifts you have received, "LOL" moments, achievements, trips you have taken, nature's beauty, memories worth saving, daily blessings. If it made you smile - jot it down and place that note into your jar.

December 31st of 2014 make yourself a hot chocolate and curl up with your jar and start reading through all of the beautiful moments that were given to you through the year.

What a wonderful way to mark the end of the year by Counting  Your Blessings!

Friendship

I feel like I may have touched on this at some point in the past. That is the trouble with blogging - after awhile it can become easy to duplicate topics. However, in this particular case I feel that you can never express too much love or gratitude.

I want to take a moment to give thanks for the friendships I have in my life.  Many people I have known since childhood and are very precious to me.  Some of you are new - and some I have never even met face-to-face, yet you have been on the journey with me through social media.

Quite simply - a friend does not need to be in the same room with you, to show you love and support.

I know that I am rich in my friendships. Many of whom have been with me through life's ups and downs. Births, deaths, good times, horrible times, raising children, finding love, surviving heartbreak, special occasions, milestones, lending a helping hand when times got rough, lifting me up in prayer when needed, taking moments out of your life to wish me a happy birthday, or other holiday greeting.

We've shared special moments, good-hearted laughter, some over a glass of wine, and some in a fb message. When spirit comes together and unite, is there any other light as bright?

I want to let all of my friends know - whether we've know each other 40 years, or a month, I value you. I appreciate you. And I love you.

"Where there are friends, there is wealth."

Blessed

I believe that often we focus on the things that are wrong in our lives. Whether we want a newer car. A bigger home. A vacation. A new wardrobe. More money. Better health. Or whatever you feel is missing in your life. Certainly I am guilty of doing this from time to time. Aren't we all? I think it is very easy to become seduced by the bigger, the better, the sparkly.

What I want to do today is to just give thanks. Express my gratitude for all of the blessings that are woven throughout the makeup of my life. Starting with life itself.  What a gift it is to be given life. To be given the opportunity to experience so many things in this life. To learn. To love. To have family and friends. To help those who are in need. To serve the Almighty.

I also am keenly aware that being born in Canada is in and of itself a HUGE blessing. When I see all of the hurt, turmoil, war, poverty, starvation, illness, death, in places all over the world. What a tremendous blessing it is to be born in such a beautiful country. And by standards of I think 90% of the world, those of us who are fortunate to live in North America, and other developed nations, really need to appreciate how rich we are.

If you have a roof over your head and the ability to open the fridge and get a glass of milk, make a coffee, have a soda. My gosh! You are richer than the majority of the world!

When I look around my humble home. I see couches and throw rugs, a TV, food in my fridge, clothes on my back, a warm bed to sleep in.  How blessed am I???

So much so that I not only have been given the ability to raise a child and make sure she had all of her needs met - and beyond. But I have been blessed to look after God's creatures. Animals of many breeds and species.  And I hope that I have given each of them the safety and security of a warm home, filled with love - for as long as they had life.

Whether you know me personally, or have read through this blog, you know that I live with Fibromyalgia. A challenging disease, which attacks the central nervous system and causes daily pain, along with a whole host of other symptoms, which present life challenges as well as restrictions.  It can become very easy to throw a pity party when you live with poor health.  The other side of that coin is that I am alive! And FMA is not terminal. Although walking at times can be a great challenge - I CAN walk! Although my energy at times can be very low (to nil) I do have the ability to do what needs to be done. Today I am not in a wheelchair! For that I give thanks! As I do realize that there are people suffering gravely - all around the world. I know that there are horrible diseases, which cause great pain and suffering. The difference is that I am blessed to have access to excellent health care. And being Canadian - my health care is free! What a blessing!

When my daughter's spine collapsed at the age of 12. Were we in another part of the world -she most probably would have died.  Yet, today she is healthy.  She has learned to walk again. Her organs have healed. And she received treatment in one of the best Children's Hospital in the world. Praise God!

In our lives we will encounter ups and downs. We will experience grief. We will experience sorrow. Loss. Struggle. But we will also experience love, life, triumphs. We must remember to embrace each of these moments. For in each we will find lessons. And lessons are also blessings.

I encourage each of you to look around. Take count of your own blessings. And give thanks!

God Bless.

-Laura

The 11th Day Of September - Twelfth Anniversary

Today is a beautiful day here in Toronto. The skies are blue. The temps are very warm. And people got up today to meet their daily commitments. Just like any other day. But today is not like any other day. Today is a special day - a day where as we move within the moments of our lives, there is a part of our mind that is drawn back in time. A part of our heart that hurts as we remember where we were on this day twelve years ago, the moment we heard the news .. the moment we saw those images that have been burned into our mind's eye. Burned into our souls.

Today is September 11. The twelfth anniversary of a tremendous loss, which took place on the homeland of the United States. But I am sure I speak for everyone when I say that it was a loss that rippled around the world. Indeed the entire world was American on that fateful day - and the days that followed.

We were glued to our TV's. We cried as we watched the horror taking place in Manhattan, and at the Pentagon, and in an unassuming field in Shanksville.

Our hearts broke as we watched the mighty towers fall. Attempting to wrap our collective minds around the immense loss of life. As we watched the hero's of that day rushing into the belly of the beast as everyone else were running for their lives.

As we watched the bucket brigade on the following days. As we heard the silence among the smoldering rubble when a life was recovered.

How mothers and fathers around the world hugged their loved ones a little tighter that day.

We do not understand God's plans. And in times of extreme tragedy many of us will question that plan. Indeed many will question the existence of God.  How could he let this happen??  Surely the Almighty could have stopped evil from wreaking havoc that day.

But God never promised that there would not be pain. That there would never be heartbreak. Loss. Suffering. That we would never stare into the face of evil.  Indeed it is how we meet those moments that determines our own fate. It is in those moments when we reach to God. When we cling to his mercy. That we pray for his love and strength to meet the heartache and to survive the pain of grave loss. It is in those moments when our own character is defined. How we come to the aide of each other. How we ban together, support one another, lift one another up in his name. How we heal together and become stronger. Stronger in our faith. Stronger in our belief. Stronger as a humanity.

Surely it is in his light that those who watched the suffering of the lives directly impacted, immediately called upon his name - in your name, and carried you in our hearts every moment of every day since.

Three years ago I wrote a poem marking the ninth anniversary of this day.  And would like to share it here again, for those who may have not yet read it.

May God bless and keep all who were impacted by the events of that day.

♥

Another year passes,

And the world stops to remember;

The day evil descended,

The 11th day of September.

The thunder above as the towers burned to the ground,

Prayers by the millions, God’s name cried aloud.

The innocent ran through the streets; for their lives,

Countless endings, with few goodbye’s.

The Pentagon, New York & Hero’s of 93

Thousands of souls, now resting at peace.

Ones left behind struggle for reason,

Pain never fades, only the seasons.

Bells toll as names are read,

To honour the memory of the dead.

Tears flow, and flowers are laid,

Beneath the lights of the Hallowed Grave.

Month by month; the calendar turns,

None will forget where they were.

When the planes soared through the skies so blue,

One thing will always remain true.

As another year passes,

The world will stop to remember

The day evil descended,

The 11th day of September.

~~~

Proud To Live In Toronto

With the recent events in the news about Toronto’s Mayor, Rob Ford, allegedly being captured on video smoking crack, Toronto has taken quite a beating in the media. Night time comedians are taking pot shots at Toronto, and my beautiful city seems to be the butt of everyone’s jokes.

Let me begin by saying that at first I was embarrassed.  Hands Down – our Mayor is an idiot. I do not know whether or not the allegations are true. And to be quite honest, at this point it really does not matter. In my opinion he needs to resign. His on-going antics are an embarrassment to the city and the people who live here.  With that said, I am a PROUD Torontonian. I was born and raised here and I hold my head up high and claim my home proudly, despite a handful of idiot politicians who happen to sit in office at the moment.  And let’s be honest – shall we?  Idiots are not exclusive to Toronto, or Canada. The World as a whole is full of them. And the vast majority of them were sadly elected into office by the people.

With all of that said, I want to dedicate this post to shining the spotlight on the beautiful city I call home.

With a mixture of historical and modern architecture, Toronto is truly a sight to behold. The core of the city with its skyscrapers and condominiums, are intertwined with tree-lined streets and beautiful Victorian heritage buildings and homes.  Pictured above is our breathtaking skyline, which sits on the edge of Lake Ontario – one of Canada’s Five Great Lakes.

I heard one of the night time comedian’s comment that there is nothing to do in Toronto. Well, anyone who lives here or has ever visited here knows that is just nonsense. Toronto’s attractions and appeals are endless. I could write an entire novel on everything that Toronto has to offer, but let me list a few of the high points for you.

The CN Tower; which happens to be the tallest free-standing structure in the western hemisphere. And if that isn’t thrilling enough, you can now live on the edge – quite literally, the Edge Walk is a new feature of the tower where by you can experience a thrilling hands-free walk around the ledge of the Tower overlooking Toronto.

The Toronto Islands, which offer a picturesque family fun spot just 20 minutes from the heart of the city by way of the Toronto Island ferry. With the skyline as the backdrop, you can enjoy beaches, biking trails, picnics, and spend the day with your children at Centerville, a seasonal carnival atmosphere with rides, eats, treats, where generations of families have shared good times and made memories together for decades.

St. Lawrence Market, which just happens to have been called the World’s best food market by National Geographic!

The Hockey Hall of Fame.  The Canadian Walk of Fame. Museums. Parks – including High Park, which happens to sit on 400 acres of land and boasts Canada’s largest Cherry Blossom festivals when the trees bloom in May. Our Beautiful Harbor front, Beaches – which are among the best in the world as proclaimed by the internationally recognized Blue Flag Program. Restaurants and dining experiences from around the world. The Theatre District. Entertainment District. Distillery District. The Pride District. The Canadian National Exhibition. Canada’s Wonderland. Casa Loma – North America’s only castle. The Toronto Zoo, which happens be one of the largest in the world!  I cannot fail to mention one of my favorite childhood places to visit; Riverdale Farm. Yes! A quaint sense of country in the middle of the City!  And opening this summer is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada!

As I said, I can only name but a few of the gems of this beautiful city. But let’s take a look at some of the celebrations hosted in Toronto.

We can begin with our huge New Year Celebrations. Caribana, North America’s largest Caribbean Street Festival, drawing over 1.5 million tourists to our great city each summer. Toronto Pride Parade.  It should be noted here that Toronto will be hosting the World Pride events in 2014. The Pan AM and Parapan AM Games will be hosted by Toronto in July 2015!   We cannot forget about Jolly Old Saint Nick, who has visited Toronto in one of North America’s largest parades since 1905.  All of this and much more, including; Luminato, Summerlicious,, Nuit Blanche, The TD Jazz Festival, The Canadian International Autoshow,  The Toronto International Film Festival, which has put Toronto on the map as Hollywood North!

I want to end this post with some fun facts I found on the web about Toronto:


City Facts

1. Toronto is Canada’s largest city and home to over 5.7 million people
2. Toronto is the capital city of the province of Ontario
3. Toronto is the largest financial center in Canada.
4. There are 100 + languages spoken throughout the city of Toronto
5. Just over 30 per cent of Toronto residents speak a language other than English or French at home.
6. Over half of Toronto’s labour force has a university degree or college diploma
7. Toronto is Canada’s number one tourist destination
8. Toronto residents hold more university educations than in any other country, in the world, based on percentage of population. Source OECD – 2003
9. 180 million customers live and work within a day’s drive of Toronto, including 125 million Americans or roughly 40 per cent of the U.S. population.
10. More people live in Toronto than in Canada’s four Atlantic Provinces combined
11. Half of Toronto’s population (1,237,720) was born outside of Canada, up from 48 per cent in 1996.
12. Niagara Falls is just over an hour’s drive from Toronto
13. Toronto has over 8,000 restaurants
14. Toronto has over 35,000 hotel rooms

North American Facts

1. Toronto is North America’s 5th-largest city after Mexico City, New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
2. North America’s largest continuous underground pedestrian system PATH, connects about 1200 stores and restaurants, 50 office towers, five subway stations, Union Station, six major hotels and several entertainment centers under Toronto’s financial core.
3. Toronto’s public transit system is the second largest in North America and has the highest per capita ridership rate on the continent.
4. About 25% of films produced in Hollywood are actually filmed in Toronto, making it North America’s 3rd largest TV and movie production venue.
5. The Caribana parade is the largest single-day parade and largest Caribbean festival in North America.
6. Toronto has the only, real castle in all of North America. You will never forget “Casa Loma” (home on hill) with vista views of both, the downtown, skyline of Toronto and of Great Lake Ontario.
7. The TSX Group – the third-largest stock exchange in North American and seventh largest in the world based on market capitalization – is the world leader in mining sector listings.
8. The Direct Energy Centre (formerly the National Trade Centre) is the 3rd largest exhibit facility in North America with over 1 million sq. ft. of exhibit space

World Facts

1. Yonge Street is listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the longest street in the world, stretching 1,896 km from the lakeshore in Toronto, north to Rainy River, Ontario, near the Minnesota border.
2. Toronto is home to the world’s second tallest free-standing structure, the CN Tower standing 1,815 feet (553 meters) tall.
3. The Toronto Zoo is the third largest in the world and is home to more than 5000 animals
4. Toronto is the third largest center for English language theatre in the world, behind New York City and London.
5. Toronto is a world leader in digital microwave transmission, satellite communications services and data distribution networks.
6. Rogers Centre (formerly Skydome) – the world’s first stadium to have a fully retractable roof

Economic Facts

1. Toronto is the largest and most important financial center in all of Canada and the fourth largest in North America. Only New York city, Chicago and Los Angeles are larger.
2. Financial center of Canada, 3rd largest in North America, employing 205,000 in financial sector
3. Toronto is home to Canada’s 5 largest banks, 50 foreign bank subsidiaries and branches, and 112 securities firms.
4. The film industry supports 28,000 jobs in Toronto and annually contributes $1.5 billion to the economy
5. Toronto’s tourism industry generated $3.34 billion in direct expenditures in the year 2000
6. There are about 87,900 tourism related jobs in Toronto


With all of that, let me just say once again that not only am I a proud Torontonian, but I am blessed to live in the best City, in the best Country in the World!  And if you have never had the pleasure of visiting our great city, I encourage you to do so!

The Question Of Capital Punishment

The world is waiting with baited breath for the jury to return with yet another verdict in the Jodi Arias case. Not one of guilt or innocence - they've already done that. This time they are deliberating about whether Jodi will live or die.

Now, let me stop here and say that I did not watch the trial. With that said, her guilt or innocence is irrelevant to my thoughts here today. The jury found her guilty, and I accept that.

My thoughts today are in the direction of the death penalty. I have been swamped by postings on Facebook and have tuned into HLN and CNN - listening to the talking heads discuss Jodi's fate. "She's a liar!" ... "She killed him!" ... "Her plea to the jury was ridiculous!"  I am not disputing any of this. She was found guilty of murder, she lied, and yes ... her plea (which I did happen to watch) was ridiculous.  I just question how easy it would be for the jury to have her put to death.

I question if I would be able to do so.  During jury selection, they filled out questionnaires asking if they would have issue with electing death as a punishment. And - clearly each of they said that they would not have a problem in doing so .... or they would not have been selected in the first place.

I myself have often said through my lifetime that I am in favor of Capital Punishment. I have questioned aloud why certain criminals are kept alive for years and decades - at a high cost of keeping them alive.

I think that the public at large - the blood-thirsty observers calling for the head of a convicted criminal, are doing so from a safe distance. I really question that if it came down to their 'okie-dokie' at ending a life, if they would be able to do so.  Yes the jury must be unanimous for death to be handed down as a punishment ... as justice ... but if only one person is unable to give their 'yes' vote - then the jury is hanged. Deadlocked.

I think it is very easy to say "Yes." when it is not your voice that counts. When you really have no say in the matter - it is easy to be a backseat driver.  But what if your 'yes' mattered? What if your voice counted? What if your say-so, would end the life of another person? Could you live the rest of your life knowing that you had a hand in the end of a life?  I'm not sure that I could. In fact, the more that I think about it, the more sure I am that I in fact would not be able to do so.

Now, don't get me wrong. I do not believe that Jodi - or any other murderer (Child molester, etc..) should be eligible for parole. Ever. I think life in prison should mean exactly that. LIFE. We are no longer in the time when people lived to be 20 years old ... people can live to be 100 nowadays. So, life in prison should be natural life.

I just don't think that as humans we have the right to take a life. And in doing so, are we really any better than the criminal who took a life? "Well, the law says that we have that option."  These are man-made laws, so at the end of the day, man is deciding when it is (and is not) okay to take the life of another person. Does man have that right?

To me, it just feels wrong. I do not believe in 'an eye for an eye'. I do not feel that I have the right to decide if another human being gets to live or die.  I understand that if I had a loved one who was murdered, I may feel differently.  But is that a true feeling? True conscience? Or is it grief? Is it revenge? When someone hurts a loved one, as humans - our instinct is to exact revenge. But does that make it right? Will killing the criminal bring back the life of the victim? Sadly, the answer is No.

I think about Guy Paul Morin, who was wrongfully convicted for the 1984 rape and murder of his nine year old neighbor Christine Jessop. Ten years later, with advancements in DNA, Guy Paul Morin was found indeed innocent of the crime, in which he was convicted. What if Canada didn't abolish Capital Punishment in 1967? What if Guy Paul was sentenced to death? Wrongly?  Would a collective "Oops!" be enough?

I could quote several examples of this type of scenario, where innocent people were wrongly convicted - serving many years in prison before being vindicated. People who very well would have qualified for a death sentence. Now, before I get a back-lash of email, let me say that I am aware that these examples are few and far between. I am aware that the majority of people who are convicted of a crime, did in fact commit the offence. I am in no way suggesting that Jodi is innocent. What I am saying is that you cannot un-ring a bell. And if one person is put to death - wrongly ... that is one too many. And that, in and of itself, is just one of several reasons to abolish the death penalty.

I heard on the news today that the majority of the civilized world has abolished the death penalty. The exception being the United States. This strikes me as odd. The conversation went on to speak about how capital punishment is primarily observed in 3rd world countries, and questioned whether America should be held in such liken company.

I took the liberty of researching this 'fact' and found the following:

---


Capital punishment has been used in almost every part of the world, but in the last few decades many countries have abolished it. Usage of capital punishment is usually broken into the four categories set out below. Of the 195 independent states that are UN members or have UN observer status:

• 90% of the world's countries are not executing, according to Amnesty International.
• 100 (51%) have abolished it.
• 7 (4%) retain it for crimes committed in exceptional circumstances (such as in time of war).
• 48 (25%) permit its use for ordinary crimes, but have not used it for at least 10 years and are believed to have a policy or established practice of not carrying out executions, or it is under a moratorium.
• 40 (20%) maintain the death penalty in both law and practice. These countries make up approximately 66% of the world's population in 2012.[1]

The information above is accurate as of 2013 when Chad, DR Congo, Cuba, Qatar, and Zimbabwe became de facto abolishionist countries because they had carried out no executions for ten years.

(Click image for easier viewing.)

Legend
(Blue) Abolished for all crimes (100)
(Yellow)Abolished for all crimes except under exceptional/special circumstances (such as crimes committed in wartime) (7)
(Orange)Abolished in practice (under a moratorium or haven't used capital punishment in at least 10 years) (48)
(Rose) Retainers of the death penalty (40)

---

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Use_of_capital_punishment_by_country



Clearly my thoughts penned here on my little blog, will not change the world, or even the minds of those who hold close to their personal beliefs. The thing about capital punishment is that it is a very touchy subject - and much like abortion, the topic can be extremely polarizing. I am just voicing my thoughts as they have been playing on my mind with all of the recent discussion of the impending verdict.  My thoughts are not only with both of the families - those of the victim, but also those of the convicted ... for both are going to experience a loss, regardless of what decision the jury comes back with. But in the end, my thoughts are also with that jury, because not only do they have the burden of witnessing all of the gruesome evidence in a trial, they also have the burden of weighing the value of a life. Further to that, they have to carry that decision - whatever it may be - with them for the rest of their lives.

How Will You Be Remembered?

I once read an article about living your life the way in which you would want to be remembered after you're gone. This got me to thinking about how we live our lives, how I live my life, and how I would want to be remembered after I leave this place.  I think some people are misunderstood. Often times misguided. Hardened by life's harsh lessons. How many times have you heard someone say that people just don't 'get' them? I watched a bio recently and the subject of the bio said: "If you truly knew me......"  Clearly we cannot be so transparent that strangers would know what is in our heart.  But I think that we can live a life that reflects the overall picture of what is happening inside.

As human beings, we are not perfect. In fact, God made us imperfect, with the given ability to choose. And we each have times in our lives where we wish we could have a 'do over'. Unfortunately life does not afford such luxuries. What it does offer are new beginnings. Opportunities to choose a different path. A different way of living. A different way of presenting yourself to the world. You cannot un-ring a bell, but you can pick up a different one.

With age, hopefully, comes maturity, and with maturity, hopefully, comes new understanding and better choices. Inherently, your heart at 40 is what it was when you were 5.  Though how you choose to represent your heart does not always display itself in the best light. Certainly I have not always made the best choices in my life. But I have learned lessons, I have grown into my heart over the past couple of decades. And I hope to be able to continue to do so, as I really believe that our true understanding of self, is limited by our age and experience. I did not have the knowledge at twenty that I do today. Equally, I am certain that twenty years from now - I will be much more knowledgeable than I am today.

With each day, with each experience, with each action, you are writing your life's resume. What you do today will be read tomorrow. The good news is that if you have been living a life you are not proud of, you have time to change that! You are here today - and can use today as a fresh page to write upon. You do have the luxury of change. You have the opportunity to choose how you wish to example yourself through your life, through your character. To grow integrity. To be the kind of person you can be proud of. Remember that getting older is not an option - growing into your heart - is.

For myself, I would hope that after I leave this place, I would be remembered as a loving, caring, intelligent, compassionate, strong, generous, woman of great faith. A woman who loved God dearly, who adored her daughter,  treasured family, and valued her friends. A woman who would give the shirt off of her back for someone in need. A woman who loved animals, respected nature, adored trees. One who yearned for knowledge, loved to write, loved to teach, loved to cook - and would wholeheartedly welcome guests to her table.

I can only pray that as God shepherds my life, I may continue to live in this way. That life's hard knocks would not bitter me - as witnessed in my younger years. That God will continue to bless me with the opportunities to help others, and afford me the ability to do so. That when I am gone, my resume will be read well, under the light of the Lord.

What will your resume say about you?

Earth Hour 2013

Earth Hour 2013 is taking place this evening (March 23rd) between 8:30 - 9:30 pm local time.

Please pay respect to Mother Earth and join others world-wide by shutting off the lights tonight.  And just as a safety reminder if you are taking part, please do not leave your candles unattended.

Wishing you a Happy and SAFE Earth Hour!!!

I Will!

In life we each have hurdles we need to overcome.  We each have goals we are trying to achieve.  Whether it is simply getting to the next level in a facebook game ... or the next level in life, you have to believe in your abilities and run your own race.

One thing I've learned in life is that if you spend time looking around to see what everyone else is doing, you will only trip yourself up. You are your only competitor!

You can also be your own harshest critic.  Try not to allow that to happen. Just because you may not be going at the rate that you think you should - or at the rate someone else is going - doesn't mean you are doing anything wrong.

I have to tell myself this every time I leave my home.  Fibromyalgia has slowed down my mobility significantly over the decades and this past year I have slowly been building up the strength in my legs. When I go out and people pass me on the sidewalk - I have to tell myself that I am going at my own pace and I will get where I need to be - in my own time. And the only thing that matters is that I will get there!

The same can be said for this blog. I began writing it because ... well... I like to write.  I never ever thought about an audience. Quite honestly the thought of followers never entered my mind.  And here we are with the blog going on 20,000 page hits!  That amazes me! I look at all of the countries around the world with people who are reading my words - my thoughts ... and I am shocked.  Humbled .. but shocked!

I suppose the lesson in all of this is that whether it is a game, or a diet, or a stroll down the street, or a post in a blog... do it at your own pace. One pound, one step, one word at a time. And you will get there.

Just like that little engine that could; remind yourself "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can"  And you will!!

10 Tips For Better Sleep

Tapestry Of Life

I was on the train on my way to visit my family. On my way to see my father for the very first time. I wanted everything to be perfect. What is perfection exactly? The absence of flaw. The problem is that as humans we are not without flaw. Flaws in fact make up our character. They are indeed a part of who we are. And in fact the more we attempt to present in a flawless manner, the more likely a flaw is to show itself. A truth, simple in it's natural state, yet impossible to hide.

As I watched the landscape whiz past me as my eyes peered out the windows of the train, my hand set upon my lap. I was horrified as my fingers found a tear in my pant. How was this possible? How did this happen?

I had carefully selected what I would wear, how I would present myself.  It was flawlessly pictured in my mind's eye.  There is a saying "If you want to make God laugh, tell Him what your plans are!" Indeed God was laughing as I had no choice but to arrive flawed. I was not perfect.  And when the train stopped, I gathered my bags and my imperfections, with my head held high, I got off that train.

Once I returned home, and unpacked, I immediately sewed the tear in the fabric of my pants. Still wondering how on earth that tear had gotten there in the first place.  Clearly I had snagged it on something.

Isn't that how life works though? From time to time we snag ourselves - on something.  And usually we don't even notice it until after the fact. But God never promised us smooth sailing.  He never promised us that there would be a life without snags. That we would not be without scars or imperfection.

But that is okay.  It is our imperfections. Our flaws. Our differences; that in fact make us who we are. And it is our uniqueness, which, combined with those in our lives, enables us to weave together the tapestry of our life. Indeed the tapestry of our soul.

For each person, each experience, each snag in our lives, contributes to the final picture. And there is beauty in imperfection. Beauty in scars. For scars remind us that we are flawed. Scars induce memories. Scars are reminders of what we've survived. You know exactly where each nick and stitch on your body came from in life. That scar on your knee when you were running on the playground in grade 3.  The stretch marks on your tummy, which housed the life you had once carried within you for nine months.

Each mark, each mar is a step we've made in our lives. A part of our life's journey. A stitch on the canvas.  Just as it is with each person, be it family, friends, or even foes. Each with a purpose. Each a part of His plan. Each a colored thread woven in the ultimate painting that we admire as we look back to survey how our life is unfolding behind our very footsteps.

Scars make us survivors. Blemishes make us human. Who is to say in which direction the branch of a tree is to go? And if the branches are not even, if there is no symmetry, does that make the tree any less beautiful?  Indeed nature is perfectly imperfect. So why must we concern ourselves with chasing the unattainable? We must learn to accept ourselves for who we are, we must learn to accept others for who they are.

For the pattern presented in cracked glass is one of beauty. Such as in the pattern within our very skin. Each ring of our fingerprints. Each pour in our flesh. Unique. Put there for a reason. Just as natures engravings within the bark of a tree.  They make us stronger. More versatile. Better prepared to weather that, which is unknown but certain to make it's presence in our life.

So today as I slipped on those same pants, and my fingers found the imperfection within the smooth fabric, I was reminded of that train trip. I was reminded of the people who awaited my arrival. I was reminded of people who have come and gone from my life - throughout my life. I was reminded of all of the colored threads, which make up the tapestry of my life. And I smiled. Smiled knowing that I am unique. I am perfectly imperfect. And yet my picture remains one of beauty.

Country First - The Poverty Crisis

Those who know me personally are aware that I grew up in downtown Toronto. As a result, I have seen a lot of things in my life. homelessness, crack heads, prostitution, crime.. so much in fact that I had become desensitized to it.  Seeing it without really SEEing it.

Living away from the downtown core for the better part of the past two decades, I had not seen crack heads and prostitutes or even homeless people every time I stepped outside of my door.  Eventually I became accustomed to not SEEing. Certainly it was not a case of forgetting about the problems, which are in your face when living downtown - but I suppose it was a case of 'out of sight - out of mind'.

I suppose the same can be said for the politicians. It is very easy to forget or overlook a problem when it is not in your face each and every time you leave your home.  Yes, it is true that the majority of the law makers and those who work 'for the people' do work downtown. However, the fact is that the underprivileged do get lost in the shuffle and hustle and bustle of the busy city. Particularly in the downtown core of a big city. And for the most part - by the time those who 'work for the people' head home at the end of the working day - and the downtown core empties ... this is when all those who do not have a home to go to become visible.  The ones who are left behind.  The truth is that they were there the whole time - they just blend into the background while the suits race up and down the streets plugged into their smartphones.

Having moved back downtown a year ago, I admit was sort of culture shock.I was reminded how sad downtown can be. There is a distinct shift in the energy when you come from a quieter community to the downtown core of a metropolis. And your energy begins to match that of the environment around you. Your frequency changes. The only difference was that I did not have blinders on. I was returning and the only change from when I had left so many years ago is not that the problems had gone away - but in fact they have magnified.

How can this be? Why is nothing being done?

Each day and night when I walk my dog, or run errands etc.. I see it.  Am I the only one? I see the lines outside of the homeless shelters.  I see the homeless sleeping on grates.  I see the lines at the soup kitchens. The lineups at the food banks - people waiting to take home that jar of peanut butter and dented can of chick peas.

Over the holidays, my daughter volunteered at a drop-in - serving Christmas dinner to the homeless.  She was surprised at home many people were in need of a home-cooked meal.  A hot plate of food.

Two or three times a year we see on the news that the Daily Bread Food Bank is having another food drive. The local media sets up camp at a random grocery store and they do the drive for the day.  Attempting to reach goals of food and monetary donations to last for the next couple of months.  And each year the demand increases.  Each year the need is more. Year after year after year.  Nothing changes.

Why?

Since the weather has shifted and the nights have gotten cold, I see homeless people in my building ... hiding in the move-out rooms ... you can see them praying that you do not SEE them.  Hoping to fade away into the background as they huddle in a corner - thankful to be in a warm - dry place. Until. security or the police kick them out.

Why?

When I returned home this evening from walking my dog, I tuned into the 11:00 news ... I sipped my tea as I listened to the reports on the homeless during the frigid weather.  I listened to the Beat the Street people and how they make their rounds handing out survival packages consisting of hats, scarves, mittens, sleeping bags and some food.  I listen to the accounts of three local shelters being packed to the rafters.  I see footage of people sleeping on mats on the floor of churches and displacement centers - waiting for a bed to become available for them.  There is no room at the Inn.

Why?

In the same breath - you see reports on the news about agencies collecting for overseas missions.  You read in the newspapers about how Canada is donating $50mil to this 3rd world country ... or $100mil to that hurricane / tsunami / earthquake / (fill in the blank) ravaged country. Aide for people on the other side of the world when citizens are starving and dying on the streets of the homeland.

Why?

People who know me, know that I am a giver by nature. I will give you the shirt off of my back if you need it.  There are many occasions where I have helped this person or that person with food or money or whatever.  And I am happy to do so!! With that said, I always kept in mind that I am running a household. I had a child to feed. And with that knowledge I made certain that my home was taken care of first. I made certain that my child or any assorted pets - lives which depended upon me - were covered first. Then I would assess what 'extra' was available to help someone else who needed the help.

Why does the Government not work this way?  Let me be clear that because I am Canadian, I am speaking about Canada.  However, I am more than aware that this goes also for the U.S.A. and many other countries with ass-backward ideas about sense of obligations towards everyone else ahead of their own citizens.

I am certain that President Obama, or Prime Minister Harper would not allow their children to go without food, while handing out donations to a charity.   So, why is okay to do so on the larger scale? The fact is that if you are the leader of a country - the citizens are your children. Your dependents. And just as in a home - one child may need help with math and another child may need new shoes. Citizens have a variety of needs - be it health care - or the basic needs of food and shelter. No need grater than the other - all needs are required to be met.

Let me pause here and acknowledge that what I am saying is what many people are thinking but what nobody is allowed to say.  Let me also be clear in saying that absolutely less fortunate countries should be helped. Dying children in Africa should be fed and medically treated and housed.  Yes, the people in Haiti need help to recover from the most recent Act of God.

With that said - I am also saying that you take care of your own house first! When there is not one Canadian citizen living on the streets - not one Canadian citizen missing a meal ... THEN you see what is in the reserves and help other countries who need help. The same can also be said about taking on more citizens when you cannot keep up with the demand of those who are already living here. If you cannot adequately feed, clothe and shelter the children in your home - do you bring more children in? Does that make any sense?

So what happens in the meantime?  Well, in my opinion it is down to the people who make such exorbitant amounts of money to do something. I feel like if your annual income is that of a medium sized country - it is incumbent upon you to make sure that you do something for the earthly community.

How many times have you seen the annual lists of CEO's and celebrities raking in tens of millions of dollars a year?  Is that really necessary? Actors making tens of millions to star in a movie.  Really? When there are people starving on your streets?

I'm sorry, but I do not believe that you need to earn $50 mil a year in order to survive.  Or even to maintain any sort of extravagant lifestyle.  That is just ridiculous.  It should be mandatory that if your estate is in the tens or hundreds of millions - you should be automatically made to give half to support 3rd world nations.  To feed the starving children in Africa. To rebuild Haiti. And so forth.

If every celebrity, rapper, or otherwise gave half of their annual income to 'the cause' - in a decade the world would be a completely different place.  And believe me, if the majority of people can live at or below the poverty line - the celebrities can certainly survive on $25 mil a year instead of $50 mil.

In the meantime, countries such as Canada and the U.S. can focus their resources on the people who struggle to survive within their borders.

The year is 2013, how is it that people are dying on the streets? How is it that people are starving? How is it that people are killing themselves to escape the extreme suffering? How is it that crime is on an up-rise because people are desperate? Yet, people are living way - way - way beyond what is necessary?

Governments and Celebrities should be ashamed.

It is criminal and should never have been allowed to get to this point.

"If you do what you've always done, you will always get what you've always got."

Lance Armstrong - The Picture

Arrogant.  Jerk. Narcissistic. A Bully.  Just some of the adjectives Lance Armstrong used to describe himself and his actions, during the two-part, tell-all interview with Oprah Winfrey.

After watching part one yesterday I was tempted to write about it - tempted like the rest of the world to give an opinion.  To judge. I decided to wait until after having watched part 2 tonight before voicing any opinion on the matter.  The confession.

During the interview a few things became clear to me. I question the term confession. Can one truly confess after one has been caught?  Truthfully, the world knew about the doping long before the interview was ever even taped. So to me the entire thing was really just admitting that he had lied for all of these years when the truth came out originally.

I will admit that I do feel for Lance Armstrong and I'm confident that I am in the slim minority. During the first half of the interview when Lance described the picture he had painted himself into. 7 time winner of the Tour de France. Cancer survivor. Founder of the Livestrong Foundation. His wife. Children. Quite the pretty picture. Quite the pedestal he had managed to finagle himself onto. But in the harsh light of reality, as Lance himself said - the picture was false.

It seems to me that the more fictional the picture - the more fiercely you defend it. Truth can be tested. Falsehood cannot.  And when a false picture is held under the microscope it quickly becomes clear that the once thought fine oil painting is really a paint by numbers water-color.

And once you follow the numbers, you realized that the entire image was mapped out. It was a collection of half truths strung together to formulate the image we all wanted to believe.

For me, this was the point in which Lance was no longer the cycling hero. He was no longer the philanthropic cancer crusader. He was no longer the raised bar that athletes spent lifetimes striving to reach. He was just a guy. He was human.  He was stripped down before the entire world to witness his fall from grace.  This, for me, was a bit sad.

Over the course of the interview Oprah revisited the facts over the past years.  How Lance bullied people and lashed out. Indeed suing people who dared to speak the truth.  Deny, deny, deny.  This was his story and he was sticking to it! Stomping anyone and everyone who dared to stand up against 'the picture'.  In listening to the words from the man ... I can actually understand his lashing out.  I can understand his necessity to defend the picture - to the death. And I believe he would have continued to do so, had it not been for his 13y/o son Luke, who did what every kid would do; defended his dad.

It was clear to me - and I hope to everyone else watching part 2 of the interview that when Lance spoke of the moment he had to face his son - to confess to his son ... who had never once questioned his dad's guilt or innocence - the pain in his eyes was genuine.  As a parent, I recognized that pain. I recognized the ache when he spoke of telling his son not to defend him anymore.  Instructing his son to simply say "My dad says he is sorry."

It was also clear to me that despite the bullying, the arrogance, the jerk Lance may have been over the course of his career and beyond, that when it came to his children - his family ... his conscious was real.  When he spoke of his mother, and the toll this had taken on her.  His remorse was clear.  Remorse for how his actions impacted his family.  The few pieces of the puzzle which were the heart of his truth.

At the moment when Lance had to confess to his son, he knew then that this day was inevitable. That the only natural next step would be to admit the falsehood of the picture.

I think as human beings, we are comprised of many puzzle pieces, which together make our own picture. Some parts of the picture are prettier than others. Some parts of our lives are more attractive than other parts. But the majority of us, who walk in day-to-day normal lives are never held under the microscope of the world's eyes. The world's judgement. Few of us will ever sit opposite Oprah to confess our sins.  But how many of us could? How many of us would throw away a few of those puzzle pieces if we could? Or paint over them. Were it that simple.

Certainly when I look back over my life, there are things which I am glad would never make the front pages of the newspapers.  Grateful that I live beneath Oprah's radar.  Blessed that my normal life - the good and the bad ... the growth ... is not up for public scrutiny.

One thing I do hope is that when the world judges Lance Armstrong for his falsehood.  His lies. His imperfect picture. That they do so while being mindful of what the headlines would look like if the cameras were on them.  Because the truth of the matter is that if you are prone to bad judgments and you are in a position of stature - your bad judgments are on a much grander scale than when you are just the average Joe.  

I want to also remind people that there is universal balance, ying and yang ... and Lance is no different. Yes, he did horrible things - primarily to himself - peripherally to those around him.  And yes, in his attempts to conceal the truths - he attacked.  And no, I am not attempting to sweep that under the rug. Clearly what he did was horrible.  And the magnitude of what he did I'm sure will weigh on him for years to come.

With that said, I want to also acknowledge the good Lance did in the creation of Livestrong and the millions of funds raised for cancer awareness.  All of the good that the foundation has done cannot be overlooked.  Nor should it be grouped together with the unfortunate choices Lance made surrounding his cycling career.

With having lost my own father to cancer this past year, and being a two-time survivor of cancer myself, I hope that people will remember the good that the Livestrong foundation has done and continues to do for those who are battling for their lives - and the support given to their loved ones.

I hope we all remember that to err is human - to forgive is divine. I hope we all look at our own picture before we quickly judge a man who has been left hanging for choices made in one facet of his life - while doing so much good for others with the same breath.

Following part 1 of the interview last night, Livestrong released the following statement.  

“We at the LIVESTRONG Foundation are disappointed by the news that Lance Armstrong misled people during and after his cycling career, including us. Earlier this week, Lance apologized to our staff and we accepted his apology in order to move on and chart a strong, independent course. We look forward to devoting our full energy to our mission of helping people not only fight and survive cancer, but also thrive in life after cancer.

Even in the wake of our disappointment, we also express our gratitude to Lance as a survivor for the drive, devotion and spirit he brought to serving cancer patients and the entire cancer community. Lance is no longer on the Foundation’s board, but he is our founder and we will always be grateful to him for creating and helping to build a Foundation that has served millions struggling with cancer.

The LIVESTRONG Foundation is one of the most highly-rated and effective cancer organizations in the United States. Our success has never been based on one person – it’s based on the patients and survivors we serve every day, who approach a cancer diagnosis with hope, courage and perseverance. We listened to their needs and took action to create free cancer support services that offer access to clinical trials, fertility preservation, insurance coverage and even transportation to treatment. People living with and through cancer are the inspiration behind our work. They have been, are and always will be our focus.”

I AM ...

You Are What You Think

Have you ever stood in an empty room and spoke - then listened for the echo as your words reverberated throughout the room? When you speak into a hollow space - the vibration of your voice is sent across the room until it hits a solid - such as a wall, then is returned to you, presenting itself as an echo.  The very sound frequency you sent out, returns to you.

This is not exclusive to the frequency of sound or even light, but also the energy within our selves. You can feel energy all around you.  When you are in the country you feel a different energy then when you standing in the center of a mighty metropolis.  This is not only represented by the cars whizzing past you, but rather the collective energy of the mass amount of people surrounding you.  Have you ever noticed the change of energy when you are in a crowded mall, vs. the energy in a crowded elevator?

Those who are sensitive to energy sources are able to distinguish between the two scenarios.  It can be subtle but often times you will note that in the crowded elevator the energy is at a lower frequency.  The elevator may be moving - but the people are still ... and if the elevator is crowded then often times the people in it will become irritated or annoyed, thus the rippling effect of the energy will radiate onto everyone in that same elevator.

Have you ever walked into a room where the people are having a heavy conversation, or an argument.  How many times have you heard the saying "You could cut the energy with a knife."  A heavy energy is vibrating on a low frequency ... collective energy from a group of people functioning on the same frequency can change the dynamic of the entire space and someone who enters that space will instantly feel or sense the weight of the vibrations.

On the other side of the spectrum, if you walk into a party, or a wedding, a maternity ward when a family member has just given birth ... any celebratory setting, the energy is very high - light.  The energy floats like a balloon.  You are inevitably going to feel your own energy shift when you walk into such a setting.

One of the first things you learn when you are working a call center is how to 'work' the person on the line .. if you get a call where the customer is presenting a dark or heavy energy because they may be upset by the service or product ... the call center rep will appease the customer, rather than meeting the energy presented to them, a gifted rep will be able to actually shift the energy of the call in a few short words.  Thus making the situation more productive and often times resulting in an apology from the person who called while in a hostile state.

I'm sure you have heard the term Energy Vampire.  These are your friends - the Debbie Downers who are always angry. Always upset. They thrive on drama and as we all know misery loves company.  So what do they do? They call you up and complain, and complain, and complain some more.  By the time you get off of the phone you feel drained. Depleted.  In desperate need of a nap.  These people are drainers of our energy - the Energy Vampires, whom we need to avoid at all cost!

Because we are a collective - energy is very easily passed from one to the other, and subsequently taken from one by another.  Imagine however if as a collective we changed our energy - what would that be like?

The first thing we need to do is stop praying for what we do not want.  Sounds silly doesn't it?  Yet, often this is exactly what many of us do.  "Oh God please don't let me gain weight before the wedding"  And what happens?  Yup - you are 5lbs heavier on the big day.  "I am never going to find a good man!"  Well, you are right.  With the energy you put out there - you probably never will. And if by chance you do - he will undoubtedly be omitting the very energy you used when you found him. Like attracts Like.

"Whether you think you can, or think you can't - either way you are right." - Henry Ford

I love this quote and it pretty much sums it up.  In order to change the results, we have to change the frequency of our energy.  Quite simply put - what we put out there is what we will get back.  If you think negatively - negativity will come to you.  On the other hand, if you use positive prayer, positive mantra, positive meditation ... positive energy ... then a more positive energy will echo back to you.

Now, I know what you are thinking ... life is not easy, the world is a crazy place and it is impossible not to every again have negative thoughts.  Difficult to omit all negative energy.  And unfortunately this is true for the masses.  We cannot control the energy of the collective.  Wouldn't that be a wonderful thing if we could?  The reality is that we can only control our own energy.  And sometimes we encounter people or situations that just suck.  And we find that our energy frequency begins to drop.  We are human and should not focus on that with counter-productive worry or self down-talk.

Make a mental note to catch yourself ... when you find a negative thought coming into your mind - your mental space - your energy field ... immediately replace it with a positive though - positive energy.  Lighten and lift the frequency.

Rather than praying for what you don't want - pray for what you do want.  Focus on what you do want. "I am going to be a beautiful bride."  Because in reality, regardless of the number on the tag on that dress - you are going to be radiant.  "I am going to find a good man!"  And you will be met by a man surrounded by the same energy you are omitting.  Like attracts Like.  This is not only true for misery and it's company ... but also for the higher vibrations and those attracted to it.

The room doesn't care what sound you make, if you are yelling - crying - laughing - singing ... the vibration is returned to you.  This is true in life.  At the end of the day - your destiny is in your hands ... so lift them up .. raise the frequency, lighten the vibration.

Remember the good news is that ultimately you control your energy and you are in charge of the frequency you vibrate on!

After all, You are what you Think!

Judgement

Have you ever known someone who quit smoking? Started a new job? Found God? Lost weight? Started a health regime?  ... And suddenly they are an all-knowing expert on how you should be living your life?

I wonder why that is.  What is it about human nature that once we accomplish something, we feel the need to convert everyone else, often by way of lecture, to the point of nauseam. Some of us take it a step further - to the point of judging the person for doing exactly what you yourself have just stopped doing.  Don't we all know someone like this?

That person who has become reformed - reborn ... and suddenly feels the need to 'fix' your life. 

Anyone who knows me knows that I am all about personal growth.  I am all about self-betterment. Evolving.  In fact if you are not growing - you die.  And I absolutely do tip my hat to those who have made personal accomplishments in their own lives.  Whether you have quit smoking, drinking, lost weight, found the perfect relationship, the perfect job, your first job, whatever the accomplishment is. That said, how many people do you know who have started smoking again? Gained their weight back? Caught that perfect guy cheating? Fell off of the path to righteousness?

I suppose what I am saying is as the saying goes; "Be careful who you step on on your way up the ladder because they will be the same people you pass on the way back down."  And as we all know - what goes up .... will eventually come back down again.

In the meantime, while you were flying high on your grandiose magic carpet ... looking down your nose upon those who have not yet reached the divinity you enjoy ... you are failing to realize that you are in fact alienating everyone around you.

Perhaps the intentions are good? Perhaps you are only wanting to lift those around you to your new level.  It is after all lonely at the top. Perhaps you do not realize how you are potentially coming off.  Perhaps you have yet to learn the subtle difference between a gentle suggestive nudge vs. a club over the head with the cast iron frying pan.

What we must remember is that there is indeed a thin line between encouragement and belittlement.

In other words .... "Don't judge me because I sin differently than you do."

Your First Home

A mark for every breath you took,

every blink, every sleepy yawn.

One for ever time you sucked your thumb,

waved hello, close your eyes and slept

in the most perfect darkness.

One for every time you had the hiccups,

one for ever dream you dreamed inside of me.

 

It isn't very pretty anymore. Some may even say its ugly

That's ok.

It was your home. It was where I grew to love you

where I laid my hand

as I dreamed about who you were and who you would be.

It held you until my arms could

and for that I will always find something beautiful in it.