Life
Is Life A Series of Important Events or Processes?
I was reflecting the other morning on how we tend to think of life as a series of important events that mold and shape our world. As I sat with this thought for a while, it occurred to me that events are rarely events. They tend to be a process that has culminated with a defining experience; the “event” was just a larger experience in a longer, more defined process.
What Is An Important Event?
Let’s begin this exploration by looking at major life events like weddings, births, deaths, divorces, graduations, retirements, and birthdays. We can then see if we can discover where the process began and if it really was an actual event....Can Success and Sex Sell Mindfulness?
I found this article so entertaining and well-written: Can Success and Sex Sell Mindfulness? I hope you find it as riveting as I did. She has raised some excellent questions for further reflection.
The first thing that bothered me in the article was that I actually knew what the expression "side-boob" meant. I wish I didn't but I do, enough exposure to pop culture through Facebook and online research has me more mainstream slang-friendly than I would like. The other part that caught my attention was the author's surprise that mindfulness is being promoted through "success." I thought that was something common in the last decade or so. I sense that it is probably the most common vehicle for motivating and exposing mainstream people to mindfulness....
Benefits of Meditation: Being Present in Your Life
I remember when I used to have to look around for my keys, wallet, and shoes when leaving the house daily. I used to take in the mail daily, put it on a table, move it to the kitchen counter the next day, move it to my desk, and then eventually open it. Then, finally, weeks later, I would pay the bill or reply to the inquiry. The mail was often touched five or six times before an action occurred to complete the process. Calendars were like a bible to me since I never remembered what I was doing when, with whom, or at what time. There were countless return phone calls and messages cluttering my mind day and night. Clothes were rarely where they belonged; in fact, they were typically anywhere but where they belonged. There were times it was hard to tell the clean from the dirty piles; there was so much. Clutter of mind, home, and life were constant obstacles to being present and focused in my day. I am grateful these things are rarities in my life today!...
Voices of Female Celebrities on Body Image
Over the last twenty-five years or so, my attention has been drawn to the issues and challenges of those with eating disorders and the possible sources of their existence in modern American culture. I have experienced countless friends, colleagues, and clients who have been in various stages of the disease and recovery from disordered eating. We have learned a lot since then, and we have a better understanding of treatment, support, and the probable cause of these issues.
One would have been to be very naïve to not include female body image issues as a major cause and root of the widespread problem that hits many young women and adults. It is less common, but men are not exempt. I am focusing just on women for this particular discussion, specifically female celebrities and their influence on young women and their body images....
Providence Spiritual Life Coaching – Helping, Fixing or Serving?
I recently read an incredible article in Shambala Sun titled Helping, Fixing or Serving? by Rachel Naomi Remen. This article inspired an opportunity to reflect on the differences between helping, fixing, or serving. As a Providence Holistic Counselor, the distinctions are important and valuable in my work.
During periods of my life when I received support from professionals in the Mental Health and Spiritual Communities, I was fortunate to be directed to people who wanted my best interest first. The way they interacted with and guided me was clear. I somehow knew this, even from those I paid for their services. I think we can feel at a deeper level when we are served than when we are being helped or fixed by someone. ...
The Art of Knowing is Knowing What to Ignore
"The art of knowing is knowing what to ignore" Rumi
I saw this posted recently by a friend on Facebook, yes Facebook. Again, from Rumi, "The art of knowing is knowing what to ignore." I appreciate the simplicity of this illustration and how it depicts the lens we each view life, and what we see or do not see....
Spiritual Change: Tie Your Shoes Differently
It was 1989, and I was feeling ready for life to move forward for me after a series of very challenging years. I asked an old friend named Bill, while sharing thoughts on life and spiritual growth, “What do I need to do to begin the process of change in my life in a profound way?” Bill was one of the most trusted and supportive men in my life when I was beginning this process of spiritual development. He was a wise, gentle, and loving person who made a great life for himself after a messy beginning. You could always count on “Old Bill” to offer a warm hug and caring advice. At this point in my life, I did not trust many people and took even less advice. Asking for help was not one of my strengths....
