I'm the author of the book, "Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life”, as well as two blogs. I write about holistic health and wellness, and spiritual topics. My intention is to share what I have learned and integrated into my daily life to help uplift and lighten others. Everyone can live a balanced, soul-aligned, and wholly vibrant life!
I am a holistic health and well-being event emcee, and Soul-aligned wedding officiant (notary public), in the beautiful sunny state of Florida.
I am a vibrant spiritual being living a Soul-connected earthly experience.
My mantras: Align with Spirit in ALL ways. Go with your "God bumps" flow to FEEL your Soul-alignment ALL the time. Study at your Passion. Gather knowledge. Pray. Meditate. Then, Take It Upon Yourself to walk your talk, practice what you preach, and integrate all you learn into your day-to-day, so you joyfully express Omni-everything!
We Are All Connected.
Life's an ADVENTURE! Now, go have FUN!
Disclaimer: My full-time profession is in relational database systems and software. I am creative and technical, currently working full-time as a senior applications systems analyst.
I am NOT a doctor or health practitioner, though I work with natural and holistic health professionals as a writer and emcee at health festivals and events.
I encourage folks to seek multiple opinions for any health dis-eases. I support you in your quest to find holistic, licensed, professional health and wellness providers.
I am mostly a plant-based eater, more tree hugger than consumer, advocate of simple living, full-time RVer, and grandmother of three fantastic granddaughters (who live far from me, but with whom I video conference weekly and visit at least once a year for a month or more).
OM
So, just what is all the interest in conspiracy theories?
Why can’t governments and authoritarian agencies be up front and open about things that affect us ALL?
Transparency cures conspiracy
I’ve told people for years that if the “powers that be” would just be more transparent in their dealings, there would be no need for conspiracy theories, indeed they would not exist.
But people are smart. People who are deep thinkers will always be peeking in the shadows, poking around, and probing for answers, especially when certain things, “don’t add up.”
Compartmentalization
The military, the government, corporate entities, churches, ALL organized institutions compartmentalize. Why?
It is often said, “The right hand doesn’t know what the left hand is doing” in regard to these organizations. And that is all due to compartmentalization.
Shhh…
Think about all those levels of government clearances. Why is there a need for multiple different levels of clearance? There are many levels—even levels above Top Secret.
Do you want to know a secret?
It seems everybody wants to know a secret. The Beatles even had a top-selling song about a secret. And of course there was a mega hit book and movie called, The Secret.
People love secrets
What’s the fascination with secrets? What is so attractive about keeping and figuring out secrets? Why is it human nature to want to hold some kind of knowledge over others’ heads? Power? Control? Ego? Ugh!
If there were no secrets, there would be no conspiracies!
Is transparency or secrecy a pillar of Freedom?
Definition of Conspiracy
A bit about us
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a health book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s available here.
Conversations surrounding emotional balance, moral ambiguities, and deep spiritual truths (such as We Are All Connected, and Put Your Hands Together When You Pray), are what Sheila is most passionate about. She feels a profound empathic Connection with people and what they’re going through by merely sharing her own truth, by speaking freely about her personal struggles and the challenges she continues to overcome. Sheila strives to ease lonelines, help those exiting toxic relationships, and to remind us all that we are stronger than we think we are, and that Everything Resolves to Gratitude in the end.
Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.
This may be one of my shortest blog articles. But that’s part of the point.
When you see or hear the marketing message on a product that it is “guaranteed for life,” or for a service that you can “use it for life,” there is an assumption built into that promise.
Lifetime guarantee?
The grand assumption
The assumption we make when we fall for that “lifetime guarantee,” is that the product will last for the rest of our life, or that we can use the service for the rest of our life.
But the reality is that the “life” that the product or service is guaranteed for is the “life” of the company—it is not for our life, not for the life of the buyer.
When the company goes out of business
When the company shuts its doors forever, the lifetime guarantee (or length of service you thought you bought), vanishes. Poof!
Think about it. And don’t fall for their misleading marketing tactic ever again. ❤️🦋🌀
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Conversations surrounding emotional balance, moral ambiguities, and deep spiritual truths (such as We Are All Connected, and Put Your Hands Together When You Pray), are what Sheila is most passionate about. She feels a profound empathic Connection with people and what they’re going through by merely sharing her own truth, by speaking freely about her personal struggles and the challenges she continues to overcome. Sheila strives to ease lonelines, help those exiting toxic relationships, and to remind us all that we are stronger than we think we are, and that Everything Resolves to Gratitude in the end.
Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.
Whenever you are ready to blame someone for hurting you, take a breath, take a walk, or sit with the situation for awhile before reacting.
Reframe the event several times to see if you can find where you played a role.
When I have allowed myself to get upset over something, I have found that if I can have a few minutes to an hour alone, without someone taking my side right away, I can usually turn things around in my head and get out of blame. And it feels better to me when I can manage to stop blaming another—and not see myself as the victim.
How to step out of blame
Breathe
Take a few moments to change your state
Take a walk or change your environment
Consider the situation from another’s viewpoint
Do something else for a bit
If possible, message or call the person who caused your upset
Take a shower
Meditate or say a prayer (not just about the situation, but for all involved—including you
Sleep on it
Blue light butterfly 🦋
What can you learn from this?
Butterflies signify transformation because of the way they change during their metamorphosis. Try to see if you can find the lesson you can learn from the event you just experienced.
The person that caused your upset may have no idea they upset you. You may merely need a change of perspective. In nearly every case of upset I have experienced, I was too much in my own head about the situation and when I changed my environment (as in walking outside, watching a movie, jumping on a business call, or sleeping on it), I was able to thoroughly change my view of the event and release my hurt feelings.
Ego
Yes, usually our hurt feelings have something to do with our ego. When I’m upset, it’s usually because my ego was bruised in one way or another—even if only a tiny bit.
And I don’t even consider myself to have much of an ego, but apparently I do.
It won’t hurt me to let go of more ego either. When we can embrace humility, it can help us stand more confidently. We can accept that we have a lot to offer others, in service—whether we are praised or not.
When people talk bad about you
I know it feels painful when someone talks bad about you. But would you rather be right, or feel good? If we want to feel better, reframing the situation can help.
I have had these situations occur in my life. I don’t blame the people (because to do so would put me in victim mode), but I have used those episodes to help me make better choices.
I used to shake my head before walking away, but I don’t do that anymore—because even that is a waste of my energy. I say to myself, they just aren’t on the same wavelength as me. Sometimes I teach by sharing, but mostly I just let it go. ❤️🦋🌀😉
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Conversations surrounding emotional balance, moral ambiguities, and deep spiritual truths (such as We Are All Connected, and Put Your Hands Together When You Pray), are what Sheila is most passionate about. She feels a profound empathic Connection with people and what they’re going through by merely sharing her own truth, by speaking freely about her personal struggles and the challenges she continues to overcome. Sheila strives to ease lonelines, help those exiting toxic relationships, and to remind us all that we are stronger than we think we are, and that Everything Resolves to Gratitude in the end.
Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.
Today, and everyday, the peace of Omnipotent God, or what I have been given to know as, Omniscience—envelops me. May I see more aspects of OM.
From a place of peace.
I am enveloped by Omniscience
May I become more consciously aware of the essence of Omniscience, or Omnipresence.
Omniscience is always. There. Here. In. Through. Out. Around. East. West. North. South. Above. Below. Beside.
We are fractals of Omniscience
And we are each emanating Energy as a fractal of YOU.
I can forget all things except the Love of Omniscience. 🌀
Light appears as ALL colors.
Open my awareness of boundlessopportunities
Creator, as I awake each day, open my awareness to the boundless opportunities and abundant miracles (big and small), that I may enhance and expand my perception of ALL things. And as we share eternity, may I feel unlimited by time.
Energy control.
Time knows no bounds
I observe only growth, and note how each item of your creation grows at differing rates of speed, be it bird 🐦, bee 🐝, or me. Growth transcends time. I make a conscious choice not to judge others who have not learned the things I have learned (are not up to speed with me), and I choose to be easy on myself whenever I am tempted to feel that I am not up to speed with others who have reached their highest potential. I give myself Time.
Abide in Love & Compassion
The more I fully open and express to abide in You, the more I shine brilliant Love. And from LOVE, compassion, peace, and joy ripple and spiral outward. ❤️🦋🌀☀️🌱🎼😘
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Conversations surrounding emotional balance, moral ambiguities, and deep spiritual truths (such as We Are All Connected, and Put Your Hands Together When You Pray), are what Sheila is most passionate about. She feels a profound empathic Connection with people and what they’re going through by merely sharing her own truth, by speaking freely about her personal struggles and the challenges she continues to overcome. Sheila strives to ease lonelines, help those exiting toxic relationships, and to remind us all that we are stronger than we think we are, and that Everything Resolves to Gratitude in the end. ❤️🙏
Information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose or prescribe.
Your chattering mind may be telling you that negative, wrong, or hurtful things seem to happen to innocent people (and children). But dear heart, we don’t know why they came to live at this time in history, or the lessons they are here to learn. As well, other people’s problems aren’t really our business—unless of course, they ask for your help.
As well, when you get pulled DOWN by such thinking (about others), that is the law at work. Balancing ALL. ❤️🦋🌀
Now is the time
We are living in such awakened and conscious times! Yes! And we can look back and see the historical suffering that has occurred and learn from it. We are the ones we have been waiting for! We are the healers and light bringers. We can raise the vibration of the ALL!
True help
When you look at others who are confused or hurting, you desire to help. But true help, their growth—is an inside job (for them). You can be kind to them and offer them compassion, and comfort, but often growing can be painful.
Racists can be kind.
Meditate. Go within yourself to ease and clear your old patterns. This will expand the consciousness of those around you, as a ripple emanating in the water as a stone is dropped in. Those with lower vibratory tendencies will shape up, or ship out (and away from you)! You’ll know this is true as you begin to lighten up, and notice many around you, in your sphere of influence, living a lighter life.
Reach out
Reach out to me if what I have said resonates with you. I am in your circle ready to share tips and practices with you as you step up your inner game.
I’ve been where you are, doubting the law of attraction and that the path of least resistance is real. I’ve valued my intellect over my intuition too. But no more. Now, I observe detached from problems and focus on self compassion, play breaks, and time basking in meditation. I was one they said was “so serious.” I’ve lightened up and know you can too.
Light workers don’t hate
Lastly, you may consider yourself a light worker. But here is a big truth. Light workers don’t hate.
So, if you are struggling with that or find yourself questioning this truth, please reach out. I would love to offer some wisdom (and a whole lot of unconditional love), I feel will offer you freedom from some of the heavier thoughts you may be thinking.
❤️🦋🌀🙏☀️💦🌱
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
When my mother passed away, or as I believe, crossed over to the other side Beyond The Veil, I felt that I needed to find something of hers to hold, to sort of self soothe or comfort myself.
I remembered mom had given me a teal crystal colored pendant many years before. And I sought to find it.
I looked for the pendant several times. We live in an RV, so it isn’t like there are that many places where it could have been stored. I searched through all of my jewelry. But, I couldn’t find it. Maybe the thought to look for it was something put in my mind to keep me busy. I don’t know.
Instead of finding the pendant, I found my mom’s wrist watch and a very old pocket watch, which I think had belonged to my maternal grandfather.
Mom’s wristwatch and grandfather’s pocket watch. Also, a photo of my my aunt and my mom when they were very young.
When I brought both watches from the bedroom to the living room and sat down, the thought dropped into my mind that mom was telling me something: It was time. And that I was given both watches in case only finding one wouldn’t get the message across—and she then impressed upon me something only she could, “because you can be thick headed.”
Understanding this message from my mom, made me laugh a little and really lift the sadness I was feeling about her death.
My mother died in West Virginia. A state she had always loved. It took some time for us to travel from our Florida home to where my parents had been camping in their motorhome.
As soon as I saw my dad, upon pulling into the driveway in West Virginia, my dad handed me the thin gold chain my mom had worn everyday for the last several years of her life. We hugged. And cried. And my papa was not a man to show tears.
Gold chain
I wear the gold chain daily that my papa handed to me when my husband and I arrived in West Virginia. And yes, I eventually found the teal pendant that my mom had given me. It had been in my jewelry box all along! But it had been wrapped up in a tangle of smaller chains and until I took the time to unravel the chains, I couldn’t see it. When I discovered the pendant, I was surprised and was certain this was another lesson from my mother.
Time with dad
While we were in West Virginia, my dad and I walked, talked, and appreciated ALL.
While walking through a nearby campground, that a long time friend of dad’s had owned, Papa told me about all the different kinds of trees there, which thrilled me, as I didn’t know dad knew all of the names of the trees in that area.
I told dad about the how I’d found the watches and asked if he knew who the pocket watch had belonged to, and he wasn’t sure. But dad also wore a wristwatch and always had. I never looked at the kind of watch dad was wearing.
Awhile later, papa found another one of mom’s wristwatches and gave it to me. It was one that the face was in a heart shape and had little footprints 👣 inside. It symbolized the story of “footprints in the sand.” And I recalled mom wearing that watch for many years.
All four watches
21 months after my mom passed away, I received dad’s personal effects from the funeral home, and low and behold, dad’s watch had a blue face (when the light shines on the face the blue looks different). Looking at dad’s watch, brings my mind right back to the story I wrote as, That Little Blue Dot. I instantly tune to the knowing that, mom, dad, and my unborn siblings (in particular, Christina), are ALL together.
While driving the little car I inherited from dad and mom, I placed each of their watched on the shifter to always keep them with me, and to honor them.
I recall sitting in dad and mom’s little Hyundai (about a year later), and thinking how mom had always wanted to give me a car. She talked about that often. Mom had not wanted me to have to work at age fifteen to buy a car, or make so many car payments over the years.
So, in one clear, mystic moment, I said, “Thank you.” Thank you mama and papa for leaving me your little car. Thank you for Everything.
Growth transcends Time
I observe only growth, and note how each item of Omnipotent God’s creation grows at differing rates of speed, be it bird 🐦, bee 🐝, or me. Growth transcends Time.
Time with mom
I share spiritual moments with my mama still. When my heart is open. When I am washing pots and pans she gave me years before she died. When we use the stoneware she gave me. When I drink from the crystal glasses she left behind.
My heart is full. We are all connected. We are all one. Gratitude envelopes me. I resonate with ALL of this knowing. Eternal. No time. Everything happens as it should, and mostly for reasons that mostly only later dawn. ❤️🦋🌀🙏☀️💦🌱☮️
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Thank you for helping me choose a better feeling thought!
I don’t know if I’ve ever (publicly) explained this before, but I absorb, and tolerate, even accept ”upset“ to a point, but after kindly expressing my concerns or frustrations (to one or more people), and not being heard, I then speak in a firm, perhaps demanding ”tone” or get loud.
At some point, my emotions boil over. And it only seems people hear me then. Ugh!
Either you want people to share, or you don’t. I am not shy, nor boastful. I am nice. I am kind.
The stream of consciousness, when cut, will come out in another way. Because Life ALLways finds a way.
Have you been belittled, or picked last?
In my 58 years on this planet, I’ve learned that I’m typically too nice, overly sensitive, and emotional. But, I am not a victim, and certainly do not wallow in victimhood.
I’m a deep and careful listener, loyal friend, and strong advocate (especially for the underdogs, misunderstood, misfits, and those who create a healthier world for us all—beyond the next 7 generations). I am a critical thinker. And embrace individuality. I love the freedom I find in BEing independent.
I have a profound knowing that We Are All Connected. And that we’re only as strong as our weakest link.
We can pull together, or we can pull apart.
Notice the separation of the colors of the rainbow 🌈? What does it make you appreciate?
Even the rainbow’s colors are separated. But, by what? Though the colors are separate, we love the rainbow.
I listen first
I sit and I listen, gratefully with as much compassion as I have access to with mySelf, as others talk, often sharing too much of the current discord.
Then I speak.
But, it doesn’t feel good to me, when my voice gets “put in the back of the bus” by someone.
I only speak when I feel a strong urge. When I am compelled to share. I am propelled by Omniscience. And when my voice is cut off while I am sending love, what shall I do? This physically hurts me. I care deeply. But because of my complexion, my pain doesn’t matter? We ALL have a message, but here I go again, having to write it through my tears because SOMEONE felt they needed to hear from their more important “in that moment” others.
Imperfect action
In my humble opinion, promoting or monetizing poor behavior—is of a low vibration. And it serves to perpetuate one-sided, dense thinking. And yes, I know how that sounds. I am well aware that is a judgment, and obviously, others see nothing wrong with it to further their “cause.” We never really know who (or how) others, no matter their complexion or ethnicity, have been persecuted.
Learning all the time
Do you believe as I, that life is a school? And that Everything, in particular, every experience we have is presented to us for learning?
Do you often wish you would respond to each challenge with your best response? Perhaps people use bullying tactics to feel empowered. Perhaps bullying is their way of standing in their power. But, to the one in their way, it feels as though they are preying on the vulnerable or weak person.
I write a lot about the power of words, and tone. And tone can be expressed in writing, as well as when spoken. Thus, I thought I had grown to a place where words couldn’t hurt me. But, I believe that we all mirror each other to some degree.
Mirror work
I don’t want to mirror someone’s dark side, so I often walk away, and simply stop arguing or fighting. I realize that “sending them love” would be my highest vibrational response, yet I am not always emotionally strong enough. At times, I have pushed back and been direct, only for the situation to escalate—even to the point of physical abuse.
An example:
This brings me to relate a recent situation: I was emotionally triggered by a response (that looked and felt quite rude), to a comment made by one of my longest and dearest friends on my group, We Are All Connected. My dear friend had expressed her deeply religious comment (based on her belief) to a beautiful photo I had shared. The problem was that an acquaintance didn’t like my friends’ comment and felt offended by it because he is an atheist.
Initially, when I read his comment I felt it in my body. And the feeling wasn’t good. My gut wrenched because I felt like I had been punched! I wanted to spare my friends feelings, and as the admin, I removed HIS comment. That set off more back and forth from him because he felt I was choosing sides. And I was. Not because I don’t like him, or dislike atheists, or because I like her more, and approve of her religious beliefs, but simply to FEEL BETTER. (And he clearly broke the group rules anyway—he was not kind.)
Second example:
I have taken a lot of being talked down to, even in the business coaching program I am currently in. I often receive criticism, push back, month after month. Though we are encouraged to think big, and come up with a program worthy of a $10k price-tag, MY ideas are often dismissed as either “fantasy,” “unrealistic,” or that we may not be UP TO delivering what we want to offer.
So, I had one of those “last straw” moments in a group the other day. And unfortunately that moment coincided with other personal stressors (which I had tried to explain to my coach the day before, but was ushered to focus on our objective for efficiency’s sake).
Either you want people to share, or you don’t. I thought the point of a small group discussion was to speak our heart?
Of course I honor everyone on our intimate group calls. But, they had been quiet and I felt the inspiration to speak, so I broke through any thoughts about being misunderstood, and I opened my mouth to speak healing.
I will never know, now, what my last sentence would have been (I felt it was only going to one last sentence), because our coach felt he needed to hear from others (whom had been silent for 8 minutes, and no one knew why). And thankfully, I had gotten to share a few thoughts a few minutes earlier. Sad to say, but I think my grandmother may have been speaking through me. I think she wanted to say something about how we never know who or how others, no matter their complexion or ethnicity, have been persecuted. But apparently, this was not the time (to speak that knowledge aloud).
Empowerment Coaching
I can find value in Everything. And I can turn, turn, turn, to the next best feeling.
All that to say, as a writer, and spiritually open-minded, caring, empathic, and such, I came abruptly, face-to-face with my own fallibility. I am human. I am not perfect. So how can I be an empowering coach?
By teaching you this? Thank YOU (in appreciation of whomever is challenging me in any moment), for helping me make a better choice.
Ponder
Maybe we need to start by changing the way we think about these words:
black and dark, white and light.
Look deeper.
Consider this:
People for whatever reason, even as children, are afraid of the dark.
Light complexion people tend to call anyone with a darker complexion, black.
Black in the light spectrum is the absorption of all the other colors.
Others?
Let’s ponder this.
At some point, in the spiral of time, humanity will learn to appreciate, honor, and even revere, the CONTRAST that brings about Creation.
ALLways remember:
You are worthy.
Your inner YOU is L-I-M-I-T-L-E-S-S
As ALLways, thank YOU for helping me make a better choice.
Is it possible to walk in another’s shoes? Really? To see and even begin to understand another’s plight or their perspective on life?
I’ve tried on used shoes before and they hurt! Physically, they can throw your spine out of alignment too. But a whole lot of us are trying to understand our brothers and sisters pain right now, because we innately know, We Are All Connected.
How can you see life through the lens of another’s experience?
We must access knowledge. How do we gain insight when we can’t trust the media or mainstream narrative? We can watch and listen to those we know. We can open our hearts and minds to those we meet. But we still may find ourselves upset and off balance.
Ethnicity
I am of English, Irish, Dutch, German, and Native American lineage (Cherokee tribe).
And my grandmother was persecuted for being Native American. But, though I remember a few of her stories, I didn’t live her life. I only got the few stories that she chose to share with me. I was 18 years old when she died, and I as only really ever interested in her stories during the last few years of her life, because I was focused on being a teenager.
We all bleed the same color.
Humanity trumps race
A friend of mine has called for all of us to check the box: Other —and write in HUMAN, whenever we have to fill in ANY form that asks us for our race and ethnicity.
Are you willing to do that?
I am.
I consider myself a mixed bag anyway, and have never thought of myself as “privileged” because I have worked (since I was 15), for everything I have ever had (even putting myself through college, putting braces on my teeth, etc.).
Brutality
As I mentioned, my maternal grandmother told me stories about how she and her Native American ancestors were persecuted—some of her elders had been forced to walk the Trail of Tears.
I have a book about the Trail of Tears and haven’t even been able to read it—yet. As I recall, I had nightmares from watching Roots when I was young.
We don’t watch TV, but I see headlines when I log into web applications for my work. And on breaks, I see stuff on Facebook. But, as an empath, I have known for several years that if I am not careful, I can easily get sucked into other’s drama, because I always feel that I can help ease their pain–somehow. (See my 2016 article: https://sheilamurrey.net/2016/03/08/walking-more-than-a-mile-in-anothers-moccasins/
Does the color of my complexion, mean my pain doesn’t matter?
Everybody hurts
I have been bullied, lied to, cheated on, yelled at, cursed at, gaslighted (way before I ever knew what that was), left alone to fend for myself and my two children (when they were young), raped twice, betrayed, abused, kicked, shot at, had my car taken away while I was at work left with no way home, had my ex sneak his way into my office screaming for me to come home, and thrown out of our house (all our belongings on the driveway)! So, I can very much relate with agony and PAIN!
Is that what you want to hear? To see?
I RISE!
With every fiber of my BEing, I take it upon myself to RISE!
I alone am personally responsible for how I feel, and how I respond. I have mastered being quiet. Now, I need to speak!
I believe we can all RISE together—if you are willing to put forth some effort (and acknowledging that your level of effort may differ from mine and that’s okay)! I am all about personal responsibility. I hold myself, thoughts, words, and actions to a higher standard. And always here in ALL ways to offer a hand UP.
Complaining and Protesting
I learned years ago, that protesting, as certain people and groups are currently doing in cities across America, would never feel good to ME because I am a peacemaker by nature and by what life has taught me to be.
Years ago, I tried to take part in a march against Monsanto. And I tell you, I was fired up and READY to march. But, I felt the Energy shift in me when I arrived on the scene. I saw some hypocrisy among the organizers. And I saw the money being made. I felt my emotions had been hijacked, so I left. I remember distinctly making a conscious choice to leave and not sew any seeds of discord. I chose to never use any chemical product of any sort again. I chose to become more connected with my food and what I put in and on my body (See my Being Wholly Vibrant blog.)
Discord
Now, I realize there is a time for Everything. I do not have my head in the sand.
I had to sit with a situation that disturbed me this week. And then, I asked the Universe why it had to happen THIS week because our generator quit, we live off grid, and only have the SUN to supply our power needs. Plus, we aren’t receiving much sunshine all week due to a tropical storm in the gulf! Frayed nerves!
I just had to sit and receive what I could learn from it. And remember to activate my faith.
Rememberinglessons
I always have the power of choice and can choose to balance my emotions
Complaining adds to the discord and never makes me feel good
Judgment keeps me sitting and spinning in repeating patterns
Not my circus, not my monkeys (though this week it WAS my circus!) LOL
I’d rather laugh than cry!
We are going with the FLOW of nature, and wanted that so much!
No one can FIX anyone else
It is an inside job
Only I can manage my own Energy
I wanted to be one with the earth (now, hoping more above it than below it!)
I know everything happens for a reason
I know Everything Resolves to Gratitude
As of today, going through what I have, I now know that I am more of a Creator, than a Destroyer.
Last night was a full moon. I took some time to hold ceremony outside, though I could not see the moon for the full cloudy sky.
I remembered cutting the cords of repeating patterns three years ago, but here we go again. And it’s okay.
Energetically, I cut the cords of all of our karmic and ancestral wounds for my granddaughters and the generations to come. No curse remains.
Here and now I state, my grandchildren will not have to take any historical family burdens upon themselves. They can be self-filled. Self-motivated. They can help others as they choose. Free spirits! They can care for themselves first, without guilt. They can choose to do what they love! They do not have to repeat the sins of their parents, or of mine. They do not need to try and figure anything out. The past is the past and it is abSOULutely done.
I continue to sail on this ship of fools. And it’s ALL okay. Everything is in motion.
To find my feet upon this beautiful earth, I keep repeating: BE HERE NOW.
At some point, in the spiral of time, humanity will learn to appreciate, honor, and even revere, the CONTRAST that brings about Creation.
I am human. I am imperfect. I am empowered. I am free. I am LOVE. ❤️🦋🌀🙏☀️🌱
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
Some people seem to thrive on arguing. I’m thinking in particular of lawyers, couples in tumultuous relationships, and those who always stir up or fuel discord on Facebook (and other social media).
My dad would often tell my mom to, “Change the subject.” And then he would change it!
I don’t think dad really ever liked arguing with my mom, though they constantly bickered. And all of that lead to my awareness that, “The truth lies somewhere in between.” And “It takes two to fight.”
Yet, it took me decades to learn that one of the two in an argument simply needs to STOP FIGHTING (in essence, release the resistance), to end the argument.
Yes, though my parents loved each other passionately, their love was not unconditional. Through watching them, I learned all about conditional love. So, how could I know what true love was?
Observations of parts
I observed, during a Bible class I participated in a few years ago, that some attendees argued more about specifics, like healthcare and sexism as related to Trump. I had to keep pulling people up to the macro general level and why we were there.
I seemed to only see the downside to love growing up in a dysfunctional family. I never thought anyone got it right. And then later, when I fell in love (or what I thought was love), I perpetuated the toxic cycle.
Truth lies somewhere in between
Which part am I?
I am not my body
I am not my mind
I am more than the sum total of my collective experience
I can list my likes and attributes, but you may still have a better idea of who I am, than I will ever have.
As my adult children and I have recounted stories from their youth, they certainly saw a different side of me than I self witnessed. The same must be true of how I viewed my parents volatile relationship.
Examining my characteristics
I am honest
I am sensitive
I am empathic; sometimes intuitive
I love deeply
I am resilient
I have fought tough relationship battles that might have wrecked others
I am a loyal friend (and keeper of secrets)
I allow my feelings to be hurt (and sometimes become resentful, until I become fully aware that I allowed my feelings to be hurt).
I hold stuff in (I say it is to “protect” others and spare them from having to observe it or get involved—but is that really true?)
I have been a codependent (but does one ever really heal from codependency?)
I don’t want to hold stuff inside, but anytime I get mad or speak my mind it pisses other people off.
I struggle with people pleasing. Or people not listening to me. I never saw my mom get too far when she argued with dad or others, so I decided early to forgo the arguments. Or so I thought! Both my first and second husbands argued with me. Ugh. And my children were witnesses to so much of that—and I hate that!
Learning from the lessons
Whenever I am emotionally triggered, I read this:
I never like to be disrespected, bullied, or have my intelligence questioned, or be treated less than I am! But I know I’m not always right. As well, others, no matter how well or how long they have known me, don’t know all of my thoughts, wishes, or desires, and that I strive to always respect others and show kindness if nothing else. I know many people are hurting, sad, mad, over or under medicated, or are hungry for love. And I realize no one knows Everything—not yet.
❤️🦋🌀🙏😉
What to do?
I am too analytical to blindly follow
I am independent
I am curious and always seeking
I can focus on the positives
I have some clairsentience and clairaudience abilities, though not tuned specifically to aid others. Perhaps I will offer these senses and abilities more of my time.
Fight to feel better
…When you feel bad nothing works. You labor to get out of bed. You stub your toe on a table that has never moved and you’ve known for years where it is. You lose your car keys, glasses, or phone. Walk around with a big old frown on your face and you know it drives people away from you. You’re fighting with yourself about something. Let go of whatever you’re resisting and your day will improve.
From my book, Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life!
Be as water
I love the water (but looking at it, or walking along the shore more than swimming in it–though I love to float!)
Water doesn’t fight with itself. Or does it?
Water rages. Water flows. Water falls. Water is still.
I will EXPLORE more ways to be like water!
Yes!
I will find my own balance.
I will find my own level.
I will start by reminding myself that the truth lies somewhere in between. I will not judge by what I see in the mirror, but simply point out the many facets of truth, per the mirror disco ball.
As Scott Buck, a writer on both Six Feet Under and Dexter series dramas often made a foundational point of saying, “We never really know a person.”
I like to compare our personalities to facets inside a kaleidoscope or disco ball. We reflect what we see or imagine others to be. ❤️🦋🌀
Even racists can be kind. And I am about over all the hate from the other side. ❤️🦋🌀
A bit about us:
My husband is an award-winning illustrator, plus he is a seasoned guitarist, bass player, and songwriter (of over 400 original songs). You can view some of his artwork and listen to all of his songs on http://RichardMurrey.com or check out his latest 24 songs here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC53E21F-JlTW2iQmPcEIWkQ
I’m an Amazon bestselling author of two co-authored books: “Transform Your Life Book 2 Inspirational Stories and Expert Advice” and “Energy of Receiving”, available on Amazon. Plus, I’ve written a new book (in the making for 13 years), Take It Upon Yourself to Live a Wholly Vibrant Life, that’s now available for online sale and distribution (PDF format). Buy it here.
