Monday, December 31, 2012

Entry #52: Winter's Bright, We Are In This World Together and My Reactive Crazy

Dear All:


Winter's bright had its first dress rehearsal this week.  The sun's warmth and abrupt winds melted Jack Frosts silvery art work on each happy bush and tree in the front yard, now adorned with cheery Christmas bows, lights and holiday fantastic. When twinkling lights illuminate every tree inside and out, where Christmas trees are beaded with mermaids swimming in their aqua glitter, where hand painted boats sail on their own faithful branch and where ruby feathered cardinals perch, what is there not to love? Winter has its harsh ways for sure, but this season is forgiving like no other. The air quality is peaking, the dramatic puffy clouds have their own language and a winter's moonlight is as bright as any sun's shine. All is calm in winter as Jupiter creeps closer than ever to earth this week.  Get ready everybody because winter is never dull! 

Tweeters
  1. Winter's moonlight is as bright as any sun's shine this evening (12/2812).
  2. "Santa is the President of Christmas."--Brady Shaw 3.12 years old
As the tree lights twinkle and sing their Christmas carols each night, I am hopeful for a productive universe that seems to be in the works. However, my heart becomes heavy each time I open up my Yahoo news page. With our planet hungry (which is no peace promoter), global warming becoming a reality (Irene and/ of Sandy perhaps?) and the US Congress struggling desperately with their ego, to the point of paralysis (Fiscal Cliff, WTF),  I am like oh dear god help us down here. 

The way we manifest our anxiety is part of growing up and I have no control over any of this, however, how do you get through these feelings when you have a sweet heart of a guy to get through this ? Knowing that we are in this world together is the only way out. The only way to keep "up" is make a pact that we have one another to lean on and to understand. If anything more supernatural should happen, its not like any of us will be singled out, we will be together somehow, because we are now, right?  

Tweeters
  1. We are in this world together.
  2. "Dear God, help me to be gentle and kind to every living creature."--A Prayer A Day
  3. "Understand Karma. No debt in the universe goes unpaid."--Deepak Chopra
As I become aware of the ramifications of my thoughts and the impact of karma, you would think I had enough strength to withhold my ego bullshit when things aren't going swimmingly. For the most part I do try and "shut it" and it does have a positive impact. However, when Todd and I are having any type of tense conversation about how to do things (his way or my way) my Reactive Crazy (can I get a trademark here?) starts blazing --quickly. It is a great comedy show, starring me and my asshole ways.

Reactive Crazy is the "culprit" in most major/minor conflicts. Reactive Crazy gets out of control if 1) anyone calls us out on the unfavorable (even when they are right) 2) it is the bruised, hurt, nasty comeback to anything we are not prepared to hear (which is 99% of the time) 3) it is the monster within a seemingly non defensive person 4) it is alliance(s) against an individual(s) who may be uncovering some truths 5) it is a lifetime story for some of us who never wanted to hear our own reality 6) it is a state of mind that does not allow for authenticity with oneself 7) it is a way in which to be cut off from honesty with loved ones who have our best interests in mind 8) It does not allow us to take responsibility for our actions because we immediately lunge into our own defense) 9) it causes pettiness which is the root of all evil 10) it is a defense mechanism that inhibits our spiritual illumination.
Tweets
  1. My Reactive Crazy never disappoints me!
  2. How did your Reactive Crazy navigate you today? Oh dear.
  3. If I do not take responsibility for my actions today, there is no point.
Thank you all for reading in your busy days of everyday. If I let go of my ego tonight and get my jolly on, iremember that we are in this world together and more importantly, check my Reactive Crazy bullshit each day, then nothing can go that wrong, right?

Lastly, let's pray for the women, children & animals who need our determined and fierce protection at all times. 

With Love & Sincerely,
Kristen

P.S. Happy Birthday to Cindy Sparks Dreher (12/28/12) who has a heart made of gold.

Friday, December 21, 2012

Entry #51: This is Buddhism, Insight from the Dalai Lama

Dear All:

"We are all on this planet together. We are all brothers and sisters with the same physical and mental faculties, the same problems and the same needs. We must all contribute to the fulfillment of the human potential and the improvement of the quality of life as much as we are able. Mankind is crying out for help. Those who have something to offer should come forward. Now is the time."--Dalai Lama

Let's find ways to better help the women, children and animals that need our determined and fierce protection at all times, starting with me.

Love and Sincerely,

Kristen

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Entry #50: No Ego Tonight


No Ego Tonight's Kristen Shaw

I'd like to make a toast to no ego this evening starting with me... I've often complained of what isn't, but I get whatever I want. I have always lived in a nice home. I still have two legs and two arms, that I am grateful for. I currently have a marriage to a yummy dish of a Wall Street guy and a bumbling viking of a five year boy who kicks my ass all day long. This is the story of my jet fueled, unstoppable ego that could have taken away my genuine happiness, my appreciation for people and my own sincerity, which is very dear to me. Being humbled in my life by working in France where the people speak a German blend, by progressive trance house boat parties on California's Great Lakes (breathe) wh ile sobbing, sweating and climbing thirteen mile Hawaiian cliffs for play, and by
always getting fired...because of my racing  mistake  making  ADD mind, made me consider the idea that other people's realities, stories and ways to happiness were more interesting than mine.

Share with me, if you would please, a large glass of THIS happy, with no ego tonight. Firsit sip is the best, I promise!








Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Entry #49: Ruby Red Ballet, Abraham Lincoln's Pride and I Am What You Say I Am Today!


Entry #49: Ruby Red Ballet Show, Abraham Lincoln's Pride and I Am What You Say I Am Today!

Dear All:

Super Sandy was devastating to so many people, animals and the environment, I do not have the words to describe the experience. 

Autumn in the Northeast is breathtaking. The season smiles at us, as the leaves say good bye to their friends the trees and perform their ruby red ballet show. It is Fall's spectacular rainbow at its best. The sun's yellow warmth is a comfort, as we prepare for winter's harsh command. 

The nests light up early as the cardinals' chirp and again at twilight's flash, with their bell like ringing calls.  My spirit is bright as I observe the bird's dance in the back yard today, (11/21/12).

Tweet
  1. Autumn's rainbow illuminates every tree, bush and branch today, (11/21/12).
As we just saluted Veteran's Day, there are many individuals to thank for our freedom and pride. In particular, our 16th president whose persistence carried him through a failed business, losing in Congress and as Vice President, nominee. Mr. Lincoln valued human rights and guided the States through the Civil War. Let's applaud him for confronting the dark side of racism and abolishing slavery through The Emancipation Proclamation, 1/1/1863. President Lincoln knew that his determination would be rewarded some day.

Tweet
  1. "I will prepare, and some day my day will come."--Abraham Lincoln
As the red, yellow, and orange fun continues outside and the leaves wave goodbye, I continually check myself when I see the power of others and their "own reality." We have different life experiences, so surely we have different realities, right? Why do we believe others should have a similar view point to our own and even better, when we become unhappy about it? If I am detaching in order to be productive,  1) I am not judging (which is self serving, right?) 2) I can listen because it is not about me 3) I have no conflict 4) I am what you say I am 5) I am present 6) I can empathize 7) I am relieved 8) I am reducing my own noise 9) I am not attaching to others actions 9) I am not reacting (thank god) 10) I am in control of myself! 

Tweet(s)
  1. "Everyone has their own reality."--Maureen Flood
  2. "I am what you say I am today."--unknown tweet of 2011
If we celebrate the ruby red ballet in the backyard, while comprehending the sacrifices people have made for others (cause they had/have no fucking choice) and losing our ideas on what we believe is correct (of others), then nothing can go that wrong, right?

Let's pray for the women, children and animals that need our determined protection at all times!

Love and Sincerely,
Kristen

Friday, September 28, 2012

Entry #48: Just For Today

Dear All:

Thank heaven for autumn's rainbow. The season's golden sunlight, calm breeze and baby pumpkins give us the joy of a new season and the hope for today. The falling leaves have begun their dance party of ruby red and sunset yellow, giving us a glimpse of Fall's spectacular firework show!

As the chirpy Robins and darling Sparrows try to dazzle us today, our hearts are heavy because we miss our beloved family member who entered heaven only 20 days ago. But now she can be the fierce (fighting for the good) and tender angel she was always meant to be. We know that she is safe in the arms of the brightest light of all. 

I am thankful to my family, friends and community who have shared their understanding of the principles (prayers) associated with Narcotics Anonymous. The prayer Just For Today has helped millions of people stay substance abuse free and attain emotional control for their well being. Is emotional control-- calm, and peaceful happiness? I am not sure, but it is a good start. 

Just For Today
  1. I will try to live through this day only, and not tackle my life problems at once.
  2. I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.
  3. I will accept what is. I will face reality. I will correct those things I can correct and accept those I cannot.
  4. I will improve my mind, I will read something that requires effort, thought and concentration. I will not be a mental loafer.
  5. I will make a conscious effort to be agreeable. I will be kind and courteous to those who cross my path, and I'll not speak ill of others. I will improve my appearance, speak softly, and not to interrupt when someone else is talking.
  6. I will refrain from improving anybody but myself.
  7. I will do something positive to improve my health, maybe take a brisk walk, even it's only around the block.
  8. I will gather the courage to do what is right and take responsibility for my own actions.
I received a gift recently, The Birthday Almanac Book, written by Sophia Kendrick. This personal revelation's book summarizes our actual birth date and favorable character traits. My first look was Samantha's birthday, which I found to be very precious and telling of --her.

July 18th -- Compassionate Character
"With three-quarters of their birth influences, their female polarity, water the Moon-heightening their powers of receptiveness, intuition, and empathy, it is a small wonder that 7/18 individuals are so understanding, and forgiving, of others' human emotions and weaknesses. How they act on their responsiveness is down to the individual--some may enter the caring professions or volunteer work, which others may express their compassion through creativity--but in so doing, all demonstrate their characteristic determination."--The Birthday Almanac

I could not enter another post without honoring our beloved Sam (a devoted follower and contributor to this blog), whose free spirit, curiosity and determination lead her life--always. Many of us on this blog, loved her completely and very dearly, no matter what was happening with her on any given day! Her journey was unique here and I only wish that when her days felt less hopeful, she could have called any one of us for the comfort and guidance she needed.  

With tears streaming down my face, I want to thank you all for reading in your busy days. Let's pray for the young adults, women and children who need our fierce and determined protection at all times.

Sincerely,
Kristen


Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Entry #47: The Monarch Butterfly Dance Party, Oysters--The Environmental Hero and Dismissing My Ego

Dear All:

Thank heaven for summer's fun. The season's eternal sunlight, dry heat and lucky rainfall gave us the best surf, swim and moonlighting of a lifetime!  The garden has just about peaked and the princess Dahlias ( a remarkable flower) are now pink velvet magenta which is causing a tizzy with her friends, the Zinnias.  Cheers to early September's happy shining ways! 

Throughout the day's journey, I peak out the window to the zen of monarch butterflies. As they dance from flower to flower, I observe their quiet rhythm and movement, which takes my breath away. This dance party is a "nectar sipping cocktail" extravaganza that takes place on the full violet butterfly bushes, just outside the window. I am in awe of their flutter and the way it makes me feel. 

Tweet(s)
  1.  "The birds and flowers give me hope." --Susan Campisi 
  2. Let's hear it for the monarch butterfly dance party! (9/3/12). 
As the early autumn gets its "golden" on, I am thrilled to learn that environmentalists are slowly winning a war with water contamination. I learned on Yahoo News that the farming of oysters is effectively cleansing the most polluted waters, right here in NY! Yahoo News reports, "The Oyster Restoration Research Project, (A NY based nonprofit umbrella group, partners with the NY/NJ Bay keeper ecology advocate working at the Bronx site, and the US Army Corps Engineers) has built an oyster reef on Governors Island off Manhattan." An advocate confirms, "The oyster is the perfect aquatic engineer for the job. It pumps water to feed, retains any polluted particles and releases the rest--purified. Each one filters about 50 gallons of water a day." This is so encouraging! Dennis Suszkowski, the Science Director of the non profit Hudson River Foundation says, "Having oysters improves the whole aquatic habitat, attracting fish and other marine life to the area." Let's hear it for the oysters! 

As the butterflies dance in the garden, I am surprised how my ego fails me time and time again. It is such a non productive use of my time! If I allow my ego to be in charge, then what does it say about me? Do I like to be in a state of negativity, ever? No thank you!

If I dismiss my ego 1) I lose all negativity  2) I let go of a petty conflict, immediately (especially with Todd) 3) I accept an apology with forgiveness  4) I am of free shit talking (oh that again) 5) I am observing my actions (except for Brady) 6) I am truthful with my loved ones in a thoughtful way 7) I am listening without interrupting (oh god!) 8) I am owning my mistakes 9) I am not comparing my actions to others' actions and 10) I am not looking for what my loved ones have "not done" for me. So, if my heart is in charge, and I am losing all negativity while living in a state of loving forgiveness, that way I am "for real", right?

Tweet(s)
  1. My ego failed me today, but tomorrow will be better. (9/3/12)
  2. How did sincerity save me from myself today? (9/3/12)
If we can celebrate the Monarchs journey today, and congratulate any type of restoration project going on anywhere, while I am dismissing my ego and its super destructive ways, then nothing can go that wrong right? 

Let's pray for the soldiers, children and animals who need our determined and fierce protection at all times.

Sincerely,
Kristen

Monday, August 20, 2012

Entry 46: Zinnias Popping Sunset Yellow, Military Dogs and Accepting Apologies Without Forgiveness

Dear All:

Thank heaven for late summer. The season's sunlight continued and and so did the rainfall cocktails! Everyone is happy! We were so lucky to have cruised to Block Island, RI (The Hopeful Universe), Edgarstown, MA (A US Wildlife Preserve) and Montauk, NY (The Surf Party) this year. The garden is delighted by the zinnias' popping sunset yellow, blue velvet purple and stunning ruby red. August's golden spectacular and illumination have given us the summer of a lifetime!

The migration is lighting up the backyard. The variety of birds' whistling at dawn and ringing at sunset, brings the clatter to its purest calling. As the nests beep with newborns and the Blue Jays cry to their own songs, I bow to their promise, just outside the window. 

Tweet(s)
  1.  Thank heaven for late summer (8/21/12).
  2. Where the bird's songs illuminate us, there is light (8/21/12). 
As the late summer gets its "sunset" on, I am confused by the lack of resolution with the US-Afghanistan war. I follow Kevin Hanrahan's blog on military dogs and their cooperation, which seems to be providing a ray of hope in some desperate chaos, fighting the --fucking Taliban.

"Kevin Hanrahan is the author of the novel in manuscript, Paws on the Ground. Paws on the Ground is a novel about US Soldiers and the dogs that protect them in the treacherous and alien terrain of of Afghanistan. The novel is based on Hanrahan's twenty years of Army service, his experience as a company commander in Iraq, his experiences as a company commander in Iraq and as the Deputy Provost Marshal (what?) for US forces in Afghanistan. While in Afghanistan, Hanrahan was instrumental in spearheading the surge of dogs in Afghanistan and lobbies the Army to adopt an innovating and life saving explosive detecting dog program."--Kevin @Hanrahan.com. God save the soldiers and their "best friends" during this savagely difficult time.

As the Zinnias cocktail in the garden, I am surprised how we accept apologies, but without forgiveness. It is such a nutty ego thing! If we are without forgiveness, and we can not let go, what does it say about us? Do we like to be in a state of continual resentment? Is that how we get our rocks off? If I am open to forgiving everybody for everything (in particular wrong doings towards me), 1) I am letting go  2) I am free of my ego (yahoo) 3) I am genuine 4) I am focused on loving others 5) I am losing my self importance (oh god, that again) 6) I have transcended to a higher level 7) I am not attaching to others unfavorable actions 8) I am focused on myself) 9) I am not being passive aggressive and 10) I am sincere. A forgiving path is a bright path, that way we are "for real", right?

Tweet(s)
  1. Forgiveness set me free today!
  2. How did forgiveness save you from yourself today?
If we can celebrate to the golden flowers today, and awaken to all soldiers, their beloved dogs and their questionable reality at this time, while examining the destructive ways of our infantile ego, then nothing can go that wrong right? 

Let's pray for the soldiers, children and animals who need our determined and fierce protection at all times.

Sincerely,
Kristen


Sunday, August 12, 2012

Entry #45: The Relief of Getting Over Myself

Dear All:
With the garden as happy as can be this summer season, is there any way to control our emotions when our loved ones may not be loving and kind towards us? I am the nicest person in the world when things are going my way. If we can lose our self importance (ego) with everybody & everything, we may just get some relief from ourselves. 
If I do not react when loved ones 1) listen to me with judgment 2) say something of unbearable truth to me (but its true) 3) talk instead of listen 4) display unfavorable actions that I may not agree with 5) share something unfavorable that someone else said 6) withhold info that I am "attaching to" 7) shout at me 8) do not do what I have asked them to do 9) have passive aggressive tendencies towards me 10) cannot look within, then I am Getting Over Myself, and what a relief it is, right?

Tweeters
  1. I Got Over Myself today, what a relief! 
  2. If I let go of my ego today, I'm good to go. 
As the sun shines on the garden and the flowers beam with pride, while we are totally getting over ourselves, even when others throw their ego bullshit our way, nothing can go that wrong right?

Let's pray for the women, children and animals who need our fierce protection at all times.
With Love and Sincerely,
Kristen

Thursday, July 26, 2012

Entry #44: Listening Without Judgment


Dear All: 

While gaining strength from the sun light today and always, I am amazed how distracted I can be and judgmental while listening to just about everyone, whether I agree or disagree. I think we all do it. Toddy does with me. He "booms" at me with his perspective or opinions and I just get so reactive crazy (my defensive shouting when I hear the truth about myself).

When we are listening with judgment, aren't we missing out on some new and interesting idea? Does listening with judgment mean, 1) we do not listen at all 2) we are more comfortable talking 3) we continually have to match the idea or story because we have to "up" the person telling the story (isn't it anti climatic for everyone?) 4) we are not even listening to the person because we want to tell a completely different story (about ourselves) 5) when someone tells us a story we don't even hear it and say nothing (because we are thinking of something else) 6) if someone proposes an new idea or thought and we provide a short negative response because we can only agree based on our own experience (we make it all about us)  7) we are not having an honest conversation 8) it causes monumental marital blow outs 9) listening is hard enough and with judgment it is impossible to have a genuine conversation  10) we are totally lost if we cannot actively listen, right? It is a huge character defect of mine that I am not going to blame my ADD on (for once). I'm just sayin...

Tweets
  1. "Listening without judgment has got to be part of my story today, otherwise there is not point."
  2. "Do your best to listen carefully when people start telling you what's what today -- they might actually know better than you!"--Yahoo Astrology
  3. "Total attention is the best gift I can give anybody."--Deepak Chopra
  4. I'm going to Get Over Myself today and listen without judgment (not easy for some reason) and have me a piece of delicious humble pie!
 If I continue my love affair with the sun light and "do" til the cows come home, while keeping my thoughts focused on listening and not judging, nothing can go that wrong, right? 

Lastly, let's pray for the women, children  & animals who need our determined and fierce protection at all times. 

Love,

Kristen

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Entry #43: July's Budding Jubilance, Girls Gone Missing and Truth Being--Our Unique Reality


Dear All:
July's sunshine has enriched this month's experience in every way. The garden is peaking from continual rainfall and now the rainbow of Zinnias have begun their journey of sunset yellow, blue velvet purple and stunning ruby red. July's budding spectacular and jubilance have given us the best summer ever!

The chanting of the busy Robin's clatter begins at dawn and their nests ring and whistle into twilight. The whimsical song writing of the backyard birds, is not of this earth. As the intention of the bird's singing illuminates me, I can only bow to their presence and thank them for the light they bring each day. 

Tweet(s)
  1.  The garden is happy today, (7/20/12).
  2. Where the rainbow illuminate us, there is light (7/18/12). (go Claire!)
As the summer gets its "sexy" on, I often feel helpless to the inevitable chaos of the world, and more specifically to offensive actions toward women, children and animals. I have caught only a glimpse of this ABC News story that seems to haunt me, and with good reason. 

Elizabeth Vargas of ABC News reports, "India, has a total population of 1.1 billion as of 2010. In India, there are one million girls systematically killed every year because of the gender preference for boys." She adds, "families have to pay expensive dowries to marry off their daughters." "As Vargas, walks, the streets are teaming with males. Women appear to be absent. The report is struck by the visible disparity. But this is not uncommon, because the judiciary and authorities do not acknowledge the illegality because they believe in the same mentality." Vargas spoke with Ruchira Gupta, a Women's Rights Activitst, who said, "It is an obliteration of a whole class, race, of human beings. Its half the population of India." I am shaking my head right now, but certain, that our dear Deepak Chopra of New Dehli, is using his western connections and politics to get to the bottom of this fucking charade.

As the trees and shrubs whisper and giggle from the yard, I am surprised how the truth brings me perfect calm, time and time again. If I am open to listening and not in fear of my unique reality then (which is not pretty sometimes), 1) I am letting go of my denial 2) I can have an honest conversation with my loved ones 3) I can be a better mother (oh god) 4) I am relieved because what "it is" 5) it eradicates my self deception (oh, I like that one) 6) I continue the path to my illumination 7) my reactive crazy subsides (oh boy) 8) I am like everyone else  9) my honesty sets me free and 10) what is that bad about being imperfect anyway? Isn't it egocentric to believe that we can attain perfection at all? Who cares!

Tweet(s)
  1. I am what I am today!
  2. I Got Over Myself today when I learned that my unfavorable truth is my reality.
  3. If I am free of my ego bullshit today, I am good to go!
If we can embrace the season's illumination (and it is a hot & sexy one) and contact our favorite Hindu, Deepak Chopra in aggressively working on turning India's idea of human existence completely around (WTF!), while learning that our truth(s) good/bad are our own own unique reality (and learning from it to gain emotional control) then nothing can go that wrong right? 

Let's pray for the women, children and animals that need our fierce and determined protection at all times.

Love and Sincerely,

Kristen


Thursday, June 21, 2012

Entry #42: Pink Peony Coolers, NPR and Is Letting Go-- Being In Control?


Dear All:
Summer's hot yellow blaze has arrived. The leaves are still peaking green and the shrubs and bushes are happy.  June's peonies are a "pink" good enough to drink and the season's flower show is ready to begin! 

As the sunshine ignites the backyard and the baby Cardinals chirp and beep from their nests in the magnificent clatter today (6/21/12), I am thankful for nature's suggestion of-- where the birds sing, there is light.

Tweet(s)
  1.  I'll have a large glass of yellow sunshine today, thank you!
  2. June's hot sunshine brings us warmth and peace today, (6/8/12).
  3. Where the birds sing, there is light.
As the Solstice gets its "blaze" on, I am often surprised (while driving the car with Brady who is still kicking my ass every day, ha ha mommy you are doing down!) how much I've learned from KQED in San Francisco and now 93.9 in NY. The writing and tone of the programming like Morning Edition, All Things Considered and Fresh Air, somehow resonate with me and my ADHD. I have been 1) inspired by Maya Angelou's profound stories of poetry inspiring others, 2) informed of the ravaging and brutal war of Sarajevo (1992-1996), and 3) educated on rethinking Hydro Power, just to name a few.  Thank you NPR (funded by the public) for my perspective today.

As the rainbow hydrangeas and blushing peonies laugh & party in the garden, I am continually reminded how important it is for me to let go of all things that are emotionally unproductive for me. If I let go (which is detachment right?) of, 1) my self importance 2) others' actions 3) the unfavorable truth about myself (which is true) 4) my concern with others judgment of me (which is crazy)  5) of what others have said or done to my loved ones (none of my business) 6) what isn't 7) my reactive crazy (destructive little defense mechanism) 8) my judgment towards others 9) my noise 10) and my petty thoughts, then I am emotionally in control, right? Oh god.

Tweet(s)
  1. Is letting go a way of being in control?
  2. "When you judge another, you do not define them. You define yourself."--Wayne Dyer
  3. I let go of my self importance today, yahoo!
If we can embrace June's hot sunshine and Todd's 49th birthday (6/21), to be curious of the nation's hopes, struggles and survivals through public radio (whatever you like), while grooming ourselves to be emotionally productive, then nothing can go that wrong right? 

Let's pray for the women, children and animals that need our fierce and determined protection at all times!

Love and Sincerely,

Kristen

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Entry #41: Summer's Truthful Twilight, Honoring Other's Sacrifices and My Amusement (100% Recycled from 5/31/2011)


Dear All:
Summer exploded this week like a sky rocket. Every tree has bloomed & the blossoms are emerging slowly, one by one. The branches are finally dressed in their ruffled shades of green; patiently waiting for June's dance to begin. May is the month that everyone plants their magnolia trees, their bright yellow rose trees & blush pink peonies, just to name a few. We have had three full days of summer which is amazing to see, but nothing can compare to night's fall. As the sun begins to set, the sky becomes more vivid, the birds get in a frenzy of a chatter & the night's magic begins (the best part). There is nothing more truthful to me than a summer's twilight.

While nature illuminates us, Memorial Day is a sigh of relief. Memorial Day is so dandy with its red, white & blue fun! However, this year I feel my sensibilities tugging at my heart strings for the soldiers who have (in the past) & are fighting some intensely difficult wars at the moment. On a sunnier note, while the path to god is moving along, how about adding "amusement" to the situation to enrich this journey?

Tweets 

  1. Heaven on Earth is the new breeze that comes in from an open window during the bright month of May!
  2. How will we illuminate the world today? 
  3. All things grow with love.

Memorial Day is a wonderful holiday and we just love a good parade. As I chirp in my kitchen with friends & family about my bullshit, I do not ever remember addressing the gnarly wars in the past or present that deserve not only my protesting, attention, or money, but a discussion? Yikes! 

I have got to honor & thank the soldiers wholeheartedly for putting themselves on the line for me time & time again. I was not coherent during the Gulf War - were you? In the last few years I find myself thinking of the men/women/children & animals who are embroiled in conflicts of The Sudan, now Yemen, Afghanistan & Pakistan (of course) and the drug war (in Afghanistan specifically) --  just to name a few. I thank everyone for the uphill fight for justice! These guys are dodging the explosions of suicide bombers, they are on the front line of chemical warfare & they are in charge of rebuilding infrastructures in the middle of chaos like no other (and asked not to lose their minds). More sadly though, these soldiers are losing their friends in this abyss, the ones they can talk to & trust.

I have always said that Getting Over Myself has been amusing to me in every way. Again, if I lose my self importance in just about everything --I should be fine, right? Is being amused how we look at things?






More Tweets
  1. "You will never be bored if you can appreciate the amusing nature of everyday life!"--Yahoo Astrology
  2. I am going to try me some of that humility today!


By losing my self serving ways, it means 1) not making others' actions about me, 2) not reacting when someone calls me on my bullshit, 3) accepting the terms of all my relationships (good/bad/indifferent) in a positive way, 4) learning how to dismiss my ego bullshit with my family when it flares up, 5) being very mindful of what I am thinking & its consequences, 6) being patient & try hard to listen (some days are better than others), 7) realizing that all of Brady's actions that piss me off are a direct result of what I have said or done (oh god), 8) try and not be judgmental ever, 9) be joyful at all times if possible, 10) crush my destructive ego every chance I can. By losing my silly ego & finding amusement in everyday life (this is where Buddha comes in --  even in the most mundane moments) is really all that I can strive for right? Love it!

Tweet 
Get happy everybody because this is as good as it gets. Yahoo!

Lastly, thank you for reading in your busy days. I have to thank the soldiers today, tomorrow & forever for their "larger than life sacrifices" and its impact on myself & the world. Let's keep "hope" close to the heart & pray for the men, women, children & animals who need our fierce protection at all times. 

With Love & Sincerely,
Kristen



Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Entry #40: Snap Dragon Twist, Abraham Lincoln's Pride and I Am What You Say I Am Today!

Dear All:

Memorial Day in the Northeast is breathtaking. The week of rainfall drenched us, so the trees are green peaking and now with the sun's yellow warmth, the garden is happy. The snap dragon's are popping and twisting while the peonies prepare for June's parade. 

The nests light up early as the cardinals' chirp and again at twilight's command, with their bell like ringing calls.  My spirit is bright as I observe the bird's dance in the garden today, (5/30/12).

Tweet
  1. Spring is illuminating every tree, bush and flower today, (5/14/12).
As we salute this Memorial Day, there are many individuals to thank for our freedom and pride. In particular, our 16th president whose persistence carried him through a failed business, losing in Congress and as Vice President, nominee. Mr. Lincoln valued human rights and guided the States through the Civil War. Let's applaud him for confronting the dark side of racism and abolishing slavery through The Emancipation Proclamation, 1/1/1863. President Lincoln knew that his determination would be rewarded some day.

Tweet
  1. "I will prepare, and some day my day will come."--Abraham Lincoln
As the red, white, and blue fun begins outside and the twisting, heavenly snap dragons beam to themselves, I continually check myself when I see the power of others and their "own reality." We have different life experiences, so surely we have different realities, right? Why do we believe others should have a similar view point to our own and even better, when we become unhappy about it? If I am detaching in order to be productive,  1) I am not judging (which is self serving, right?) 2) I can listen because it is not about me 3) I have no conflict 4) I am what you say I am 5) I am present 6) I can empathize 7) I am relieved 8) I am reducing my own noise 9) I am not attaching to others actions 9) I am not reacting (thank god) 10) I am in control of myself! 

Tweet(s)
  1. "Everyone has their own reality."--Maureen Flood
  2. "I am what you say I am today."--unknown tweet of 2011
If we are celebrate June's pink peony coolers in the backyard, while comprehending the sacrifices people have made for others (cause they had/have no fucking choice) and losing our ideas on what we believe is correct (of others), then nothing can go that wrong, right?

Let's pray for the women, children and animals that need our determined protection at all times!

Love and Sincerely,
Kristen

Monday, May 21, 2012

Entry #39: June Bells Parade,1-800 Recycling.com and How is Your Sincerity Working for You?

Dear All:
Springs Parade is here! The trees are still beaming green and the warm rainfall is a relief.  The puffy leaves on the trees wave from the street as the "june bells" and "rainbow zinnias" get in line for the day's journey.

Each May the Baltimore Orioles flurry through the backyard and it is spectacular! As the sunset calms the backyard each evening, the arrival and departure (migration) of birds brings me a feeling of light. Is that God?

Tweet
  1.  The Baltimore Oriole's sunset colored belly and flutter took my breath away today, (5/16/12).
As the garden gets its "sprinkle" on, I continually examine what I am putting in the waste basket. While sun bathing at our garage sale this weekend, Lisa Bisagni, Esq. referred me to 1-800-Recycling.com, which is a "recycling search engine". As a partner of Best Buy (for example), you drop off electronics, wires and CDs and they recycle for you.

As the rainbow's path begins and the "baby girl pink" flowers smile to themselves, I question the depths of sincerity and the ramifications we place on ourselves. What is the point of anything if we are not sincere? Because if I am sincere then, 1) I am truthful 2) I am sorry 3) I love you 4) I forgive you 5) I meant what I said 6) I apologize for the misunderstanding 7) thank you 8) my thoughts mirror my actions 9) I was wrong and 10) you were right!

Tweet
  1. How is your sincerity working for you today?
  2. Do you glare at others with your actions?
  3. "Often individuals whose opinions do not correspond with their words cannot help but reveal their true thoughts in actions."--OM (I have had multiple retweets on Twitter)
If we are able to enjoy this season's parade and safely dispose of our belongings while understanding the purpose of sincerity, then nothing can go that wrong right?

Let's pray for the women, children and animals that need our determined protection at all times!

Love and Sincerely,
Kristen





Sunday, April 29, 2012

Entry #38: Lilac Trees Blushing Violet, Steve Jobs, and Attaching to Others Actions

Dear All:
Spring is exploding at the moment. The sky has a big bright blue smile today and the trees, shrubs and plants are beaming with green and ready for another spectacular season of flowering trees and bouquets! While the sun's warmth loves the blushing lilac trees, the "baby pink" and "June bride yellow" tulips wait patiently in the flower beds for their floral friends to appear.

As the birds chirp and flutter during the day's journey, perched nearby are the Morning Doves, often paired and quietly whistling their "who" songs of God's light. Their ringing of unique songs, among the clatter, gives me great joy this bright spring season. Let's hear it for the Zen in the backyard!

Tweet

  1.  The Morning Doves, perched nearby, quietly whistle their "who" songs of God's light.
  2. The Doves' presence and calm whistling, among the clatter, gives me great joy this bright spring morning (4/29).

As the lilac trees blush with violet and the tulips sit attentively in the garden, I see how attaching to people/events can be exhilarating or not, however we choose, right?

It is exciting to think of Steve Job's accomplishments and his impact on the world. Rolling Stone Magazine writes, "Steve Job's is the CEO of the most valued company in the world." When I read about his childhood, his rise and fall with Apple Computer and his later life, his path was to build the best computer in the world and also to attain self love and understanding like the rest of us. God bless Mr. Jobs for his inventive and intuitive computers, phones and astounding gateway to music!

With the exhilaration of Mr. Jobs and his Apple products, comes the continual "ego tugging" of attaching ourselves to people and/or events that do not make us feel good. I am amazed how much time we spend (as adults) discussing others actions, in particular when it has nothing to do with us. If we focus on our own thoughts and actions, (especially the ones we are proud of) then, 1) there is no conflict whatsoever 2) we are in a state of calm and in control 3) we can nourish ourselves more 4) we are working our emotionally healthy relationships 5) we are working our emotionally healthy selves 6) we are letting go of our self importance (ego) 7) we are demonstrating a higher level of communication to the world 8) we gain a new understanding of our responsibility in close relationships and how they make us feel 9) we stop the negative noise and 10) if we are living one of the universal laws, then nothing can go that wrong, right? 

Tweet
  1. If I am focusing on my actions today, I am good to go!
  2. I am responsible for everything I am feeling today. 
While full grown trees explode with this flowers and morning doves whistle their tender songs in the backyard, perhaps we can we look within to understand the ways in which our ego can "tug at our bliss".  If I am being present (which means thinking, feeling and discussing my own actions), surely nothing can go that wrong, right?

Let's pray for the women, children and animals who need our fierce and determined protection at all times.

With Love and Sincerely,

Kristen