Witnesses and Friends

From “Crossing to Avalon” P. 111, 112

“Any significant, soul shaping event becomes more integrated into our consciousness, and more universal, when we can express the essence of the experience and have it received in depth by another. I am convinced that any human being who can serve witness for another at a soul level heals the separateness and isolation that we might otherwise feel.”

I am fortunate to have some close friends that have served witness at crucial transitions during my life.  These friends have given me confidence, depth and meaning and throughout the years continue to stand by my side in times of celebration and times of challenging transitions. To have someone in my  life that understands and accepts me without judgment, is indeed a blessing.

Today's Musing

"Times are difficult globally; awakening is no longer a luxury or an ideal. It’s becoming critical. We don’t need to add more depression, more discouragement, or more anger to what’s already here. It’s becoming essential that we learn how to relate sanely with difficult times. The earth seems to be beseeching us to connect with joy and discover our innermost essence. This is the best way that we can benefit others."

BY PEMA CHÖDRÖN 

Learning to relate sanely, ah yes, a lifetime goal. Attempting to keep the big picture in mind is not always easy especially during uncertain times, both globally and in daily life. I heard something the other day about feeling peace, not just saying the words but opening to that healing peace. So I've been taking a deep breaths at different times during the day to breathe in that feeling, to strengthen and center myself, to gradually change old habits of thinking and being.

I haven't quite discovered the full on joy yet; for now it is enough to be on the path.

The Goddess Hestia

Fires of Hestia

Hestia, the keeper of the sacred fire of the hearth. Hearth in Latin means "focus”; look inward to sense and relate to what is happening in the world outwardly. Hestia is the archetype of inner centeredness.

"The Self is what we experience inwardly when we feel relationship to oneness that connects us to the essence of everything outside of us. At this spiritual level, 'connecting' and 'detachment' are, paradoxically, the same. When we feel ourselves in touch with an inner source of warmth and light (metaphorically, warmed and illuminated by a spiritual fire). The "fire" warms those we love in our households and keeps us in touch with others who are far away."

~Goddesses in Everywoman~

by

Jean Shinoda Bolen, MD

Life has been a roller coaster of feelings as of late; a time of transition and uncertainty.  I remind myself not to resist the emotions, but to face them, embrace them, and let them go.

I am at home, listening to the rain spattering on the roof. The window is open slightly so I can breathe in the freshly washed air. I am alone today as the others of the household are out and about.  These rare times of solitude are gifts; a few hours free to get in touch with my inner being.

     I feel the connectedness with Mother Nature, and with my loved ones and friends, both living and those that have passed over. There is a quiet, deep joy that comes to me; a contentment that I know is my real self.