Morning Muse on Intimacy

I just had an amazing conversation with a colleague. He shared that he was happy and didn't know why. His bank account is overdrawn and his car is acting strange, but he is happy and has been so for a week. I was moved by that statement and leaned in as we chatted some more.

               I asked, "What happened? How did you get to this place?"
               He responded, "You know how Buddha sat his butt down underneath the bodhi tree and decided to stay there until he reached enlightenment? Well I laid in bed one day and decided that I wasn't getting up until I changed my attitude."

The conversation went on from there, but when we parted, I felt that we were both a little bit better than we were before he stopped by to say hello.

This is a reminder that so much of what we concern ourselves with daily, is immaterial. What is meaningful are the varied connections and moments of intimacy that we often take for granted. For example, my sister currently drops me off  at school. It is temporary, but the moments when it is just me and her are precious. We chat about nothing and everything and it feels me with a sense of peace that has long been absent. It isn't about clicks, selfies and memes (although they are fun). It's about the real connections, where energy is exchanged and people are inevitably brought closer together. So, let's all take a little more time with one another and recognize the beauty of the intimate moments that are always present. Not only are they are reminder of how fleeting this life can be, they truly are gifts to be treasured from the Universe.

Time to Lead (Smile Sundays)

Twice a month, I work at a local herb store. I use my intuitive gifts to assists clients and often glean messages from my Guides. It has become a way for me to hone my skills and delve deeper into the metaphysical connections we all have on the earth-plane. These messages are the ones that resonate the deepest.

I had seen this goddess many times before. She was a student in the herbal program that held classes upstairs. We often exchanged polite pleseantries, but one day she said in a rather bold tone, "When are you going to teach a class? I'm learning alot already, but we need your wisdom." This message of spiritual teacher has gone from a slight buzz to an insistent sonar ping in the past few months. I have been sought out by a few and have happened upon some while working at the shop. Today, that same goddess, on site for another class, approached me again, this time more direct than ever. What followed was an intense melding of spritual energy and an unlocking of a very important door.

My reticence to become a leader in this spiritual space is directly tied to a past life failure. It was revealed some years ago that I was a great leader, who ruled many. In a conflict, I made a decision that cost my people many lives, including my own. The guilt of that loss has traveled with me into this life and is in many ways the reason for some of my current predicaments. According to the reading, I entrusted someone else with a task. The person failed and that is what led to my demise. The message was to let go of that guilt. This lifetime did not require the burden. I thought I had let that go, but when approached so boldly once again, I felt that tug from far away, a reminder of what transpired long ago. 

I shared this with the goddess, who established that her boldness was a result of an ancestral push and we talked more. Her guides were adamant that everytine we saw each other, she remind me of my path. The issue of time and resources, notwithstanding, I know that the role of Iya Agba is one that must come into full fruition in this lifetime. This was only further confirmed when another would be student came in to chat about some of her issues. After the listening (this is what I call the segment of the time, where I allow the client to talk while I search for the larger message), and the herb recommendations, she formerly asked for guidance. And so into the journey is introduced another element of the path. I can no longer shirk my responsibilities and realize that perfection is not the point. True evolution can only occur with interaction. By engaging as a teacher, I become a student, and benefit from the wisdom of the questions. It is time, so it is so.

IA

04.07.14: Shedding time (Meditation Message)

The seasonal change is finally upon us and the time has come to shed the winter wares. The heaviness, must now be replaced with a more airy lightness of being. This can be achieved in several ways, but really begins with an understanding of active shedding. Look at your current space and decide what will go and what will stay. It is time to rid yourself of those people, habits and practices that no longer serve you in order to make space for those that do.

03.05.14: Speak loud and clear (Meditation Message)

The time to speak up is here. Many of us assume that our intentions and desires will somehow be understood with gentle voice and action. For some this approach is indeed what is needed, but for others clarity is best. Speak your truth loudly in plain words so that boundaries are set at the beginning. If you need to revisit a situation to clear things up, this is a good time with the moon in waxing mode. This practice will keep your energy intact and keep you more able to focus on those people and issues that truly require your attention.

03.02.14: Time to revisit rituals past (New Moon Meditation Message)

With the new moon energy still upon us, it is a good time to set intentions and plant symbolic seeds. It is also a time to reinvigorate practices that you may have let drop off. Think about a time where everything "felt right" and consider what ritual practices where in place. Remember ritual does not always entail large-scale pageantry. The conscious practice is what makes a ritual. It can be as simple as the tea you choose to sip for the day, or the daily sweeping of the front porch.  Many of us have left behind practices that are now needed again. So, sit still for a few minutes and think on it. Ask your guides for direction and see what they say. Once you are clear, use the new moon energy to commit to more consistent practice.

Lessons Learned?: Thoughts Post Mercury Retrograde

Today the planet Mercury begins to go direct. I say begins, because the effects of its recent backward movement could linger in the next few days. I always allow for 2-3 days after the direct date before I feel completely clear. I know that many of you have struggled through this time. I can't tell you how many posts of woe I have seen since it all began. My hope, however, is that you have also used this time to reflect. So, before you celebrate the coming release from miscommunication and delays, think about what this time has taught you.

As the reality of Mercury Retrograde spreads and more people become aware, there is an opportunity for collective consciousness and knowledge gathering. In the next few days, think back on the past three weeks and write down what you have learned. I find that even when off course, Mercury has a great deal to offer. Delve into your memories and unearth the messages lurking just beneath the surface. The key is looking past the challenged state and towards the intended lesson. What did that missed train, or late delivery reveal about you and how you relate to your surroundings? Who did you see during Retrograde? What personality traits have been revealed during this time in you and/or family and friends? There is a wealth of information waiting to be mined before this time gets chalked up to the recent past. 

In the interest of sharing, here are a few of my personal lessons:

-Rest is critical to my work.

-Asking for help and giving others permission to assist me is necessary to maintaining the Spirit/Earth balance.

-As my abilites grow, so does the responsibility.

-My intuition is 'spot on'. Confirmation from others is not necessary and only wastes time.

These lessons resonate deeply within me and have prompted me to make adjustments, so that I am better able to meet my needs and those who I serve. Try it for yourself and see what comes up. Write the messages down and keep them nearby. Remember, the messages are all about connecting the dots. In a month or so, take a look at those lessons and see where they proved helpful.

TOOLKIT: Selenite (Crystals)

Selenite lamp

I discovered Selenite about two years ago during one of my bi-monthly shifts at Smile Herb Shop. The description included in the crystal basket said that Selenite was a good for communication with angels and spirit guides. My initial purchase was a small wand and tea light holder, which I light when I sit at my personal altar. My most recent purchase, a Selenite lamp (pictured left) sits on what has become my writing desk and is kept on at all times to infuse my space with positive energy and focus.

The energy that emits from my Selenite is a peaceful one that buzzes at my crown chakra. I find it is useful to symbolically establish audience with my spirit guides and find that the light glow is reminiscent of the heavenly body for which it is named - the moon. Upon more discovery, I have since learned the following about this newest addition to my toolkit.

Healing Properties of Selenite
Selenite has a direct effect on the emotional body. However, unlike stones that soothe and calm the emotions, Selenite activates the aspect of our nature connected to our true spiritual feeling and path. These crystals are particularly effective in stabilizing the emotional body and bringing erratic emotions under calm control. Selenite is water soluible and will dissolve if left in liquid. This important characteristic is also a great metaphor of the inherent power of the crystal to melt away exaggerated emotions with the stabilizing light force of your “true nature and feeling”.

Selenite has a variety of specific transformational qualities:

• Brings the fifth dimensional light into third dimensional matter.
• Quickly opens balances and activates any chakra and is especially good with the third eye, crown chakra, and the soul star chakra above the head. It’s the most powerful clearing stone for the upper chakras.
• Cleanses the aura.
• Clears and energize all the glands of the body.
• Clears all blockages in the energy field.
• Cuts cords of dysfunctional energy from the etheric body.
• Ideal for purification and energetic cleansing, which makes it a perfect tool for healers.
• Directs high frequency energy into the body, stimulating spiritual, physical and emotional healing.
• Opens the inner self to the spiritual world.
• Magnifies the energy of what ever is placed on it many times over (including other crystals).
• Adds positive intentions into the energy body.
• Elevates the frequency of physical matter and lowers the frequency of light, enabling a new substance to bring spirit into matter.
• Acts as a tool for enlightenment as it heralds the link between spirit and matter.

Source: Selenite Sword Maker

The use of Selenite has become a necessary part of my daily ritual. Even on those days when I have not planned well and my daily practice is obscured by earth-plane deadlines, I find that if all I can accomplish in that harried moment is to light a candle in my Selenite holder, it serves as an acknowledgement to my Guides and a mea culpla to them for my short visit. It is a beautiful and lightweight crystal whose expansive energies make for a most useful  addition to my toolkit.

02.22.14: Well-placed signs (Meditation Message)

Your guides communicate with you in a variety of ways. If you pay close attention, you will find messages,  sometimes, in the oddest places. Are you being drawn to certain books, colors, tv shows? Have you heard similar messages repeated by different people? There are always responses to your thoughts and prayers. You just have to recognize them and act accordingly.

Toolkit: Keep a daily journal of your thoughts and the responses that appear. After awhile, you will notice a pattern in how your guides best communicate with you. This will help you better discern the true responses from the ones wrought of ego.

TOOLKIT: Daily Affirmations

Daily affirmations can do wonders for the psyche. Write out a few favorites and keep them by your bedside. This will allow you to start the day on a positive note before you even get out of bed. One of my favorites is, "I claim my rightful space as goddess incarnate." This reminds me that I am indeed capable and able to do whatever the day requires.  By creating affirmations specific to your needs, you are ensured that you are putting forth a genuine message that the Universe will hear, receive and support.

02.17.14: The truth is confirmed (Meditation Message)

As you move about your day the signs have been all around. You are meant for more and the time for waiting has passed. You can only proceed forward when you embrace your true calling and put into action the things that to date, have only been thoughts. While fear is an acceptable part of the first step, do not allow it to distract you. Face it head on and trust that it will pass as you take each step into your right direction.

02.10.14: Find the joy (Meditation Message)

With the planet Mercury in retrograde, joy may seem elusive, but it is there. Take a moment to find the joy in life and make it your tool for the day. It can be as simple as clean sheets and a good night's rest. Think of joy as a spark of warm sunlight that radiates through your being. Once you find it, hold on tight and let it be the lens through which you see, and the framework through which you operate. Also, feel free to share your joy, because once you find it you will have plenty to go around.

TOOLKIT: Mercury Retrograde and its Hidden Treasures

Mercury, the planet of communication and all things mechanical, officially moves into retrograde today and will appear to be spinning backwards until February 28th. Depending on your astrological chart, you may experience the effects of retrograde sooner and longer than usually stated. For example, last week I got into two different tense "disagreements" that seemed to come out of nowhere. I even posted on my Facebook page, after the second incident, "Mercury must be going into retrograde." Of course, I was correct. 

The most common piece of advice for this time is to avoid making any large purchases and signing any new contracts, and to be prepared and aware of various forms of miscommunication (think missed appointments, failed contracts, etc). These are all true, but there are some other elements to retrograde are worth mentioning for the benefits they provide.

• Double and triple check. If you were already in talks, or working on a project before retrograde ( I usually say at least three weeks prior) contracts and negotiations can effectively continue. The key is to pay close attention to everything you write, say and do. Regardless of how long you have been working on a project, communication can still be affected by retrograde, so tread thoughtfully.


• Use this time to look back and reflect. I see this as a good time to quiet things down and review what has happened. You may find things to improve upon once you have looked at what you have already accomplished. Susan Miller says the words beginning with "re-" are key during retrograde. Consider re-connecting with old rituals and practices, hobbies and people. Retrograde does not have to be all gloom and doom. You can find all sorts of forgotten treasures in looking back.


• Get rid of old stuff. Clear out the clutter, old clothes, negative thoughts, etc. Since you are already looking back, apply this to your physical and mental space as well. If it no longer serves you, release it. I find that this is a great time to rearrange my personal space. The results usually increase my energy and productivity.


• Don't forget your tools. You are equipped in your awareness.  Use the knowledge you have on Mercury Retrograde to your advantage. Think of it as foresight that allows you to navigate around potential misunderstandings and conflicts and to minimize blowback. 

The key to managing Mercury Retrograde is patience and thoughtfulness. Allow room for errors, don't take responses or a lack thereof personally, and use this time to sort and discard.  By seeing the beauty that retrograde can be, you can use a time dreaded by so many as a springboard to get ahead. Let me know how it goes.

IA

02.05.14: Don't ignore the triggers (Meditation Message)

The signs are all there. You are bothered by long-standing issues that are currently making their way to the surface. Don't ignore how you feel, instead face the feelings head on. What is really bothering you? Write it down, speak it into a voice recorder, share with a confidant. Once you give voice to a thing, it becomes easier to deal with and less of a danger to your productivity.

02.01.14: Remember to breathe (Meditation Message)

Things feel closed in at the moment because there is so much happening at one time. The feeling that life is claustrophobic is not lost on your guides. Breathe. In those moments, remember that you are suited for what lies ahead. Envision wide open spaces as you inhale and exhale. If you can, go outside and with arms outstretched breathe in the clean fresh air. Say a prayer of thanks for breath and then move along with the immediate concerns. Here is a mantra to assist: (Inhale) "I am here and I am present." (Exhale) "Spirit guides show me the way."

01.30.14: Action over thought (Meditation Message)

You are spending too much time thinking and as a result, work is not getting done. Going over the steps repeatedly in your mind can be a great visualization technique, but if you are not careful you will get stuck. The time for action is now. If you think to yourself, I need to call someone, then do it. Your guides are trying to propel you in the right direction. Direct action is the key for today. (Please note that this does not apply to any thoughts or actions that would lead to the physical, emotional, verbal or mental abuse of another living thing. If you are having dark thoughts seek help immediately.)

01.28.14: Turn off the noise (Meditation Message)

The distractions are many and as the world continues to devour itself in news stories and social media, you are losing touch with the truth. The 'noise' that results pushes you further from your path. It is time to turn down the noise by removing yourself from the very things used to create it ( television, radio, facebook, Twitter, etc). Sit in quiet for a few minutes, establish your day in your mind and then go, focused on what needs to be done. Use this mantra to assist: "The noise is off and I am present. I walk in conscious power and complete the tasks at hand."

01.27.14: Meditation Message: Ear to your heart

Listen to your heart. The answers are always within. You must release the distrust and disregard with which you treat yourself, forgive your past mistakes and start trusting your heart now. With renewed dedication, you can begin again. You can handle what is before you.

01.26.14: Meditation Message

They have cleared the way. If things have "fallen through", been canceled or just have never come to fruition, do not worry. Your guides are clearing the way so that you can work on the necessary projects. Do not succumb to disappointment or despair because a once sure thing is no longer. Instead, accept and trust that the door that has closed has in fact freed you up for something that requires your immediate attention. Be aware and use your time wisely now to avoid self loathing and regret later.

Meditation Message: 01.24.14

Carve out time for self-reflection today. What do you need? Ask for help from your guides and they will provide. Don't worry or allow negative thoughts to take root. The day's outcome will depend on your inner thoughts.

Meditation Message: 01.23.14

Stop comparing. Your need to compare comes from a place of ego and not of love. Instead of looking to what others are doing, invoke your abilities within. You have gifts and talents in abundance, but you fear the responsibility that comes with their use. Trust your instincts and your guides. Go forward and be who you truly are.