depression – My World (and recipes too)

Through Our Faith -NO Weapon Formed Against US Shall Prosper.

I have had all I can stand of naysayers and fear mongerers. (Yes I know that’s not a word.) GOD and goodness always prevail.

And He said to them, “Because of the littleness of your faith; for truly I say to you, if you have faith as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you. -Matthew 17:20

Once upon a time I felt so alone and unable to trust even one human being that I spent nearly a year of my life quiet inside. Feeling I couldn’t tell another living soul what was happening with me; I drifted forward -some of those days uncertain I could last even one more day on this earth.

One day, on the way home from work I felt compelled drive across town, completely out of my way to stop at was once my favorite church in the city. I followed my intuition. Soon enough I was kneeling in a beautiful grotto reduced to tears, unable to pray, unsure of just about anything. All I could muster was, “Please help me.” Minutes later a warm hug came into my heart that said, “Do not be afraid. I am with you. Pray. Pray. Pray.”

I went home and began to do exactly that and my life changed in miraculous ways. Almost forty years later, I am here to tell you that prayer is still one of the most, if not The most powerful tools we each possess.

By definition, the word, “pray” means: 1: to make a request in a humble manner; 2: to address God or a god with adoration, confession, supplication, or thanksgiving. For me, it has always meant constant conversation where I listen and pay attention as much as, if not more, than I speak.

When I first started writing this blog (it has been sitting here for weeks unfinished), I was upset by the number of people saying that we will never be the same again after this pandemic; that we would never recover. I was mortified hearing people say that we could never sing in church again and that we might never be able to have large gatherings. The worst I heard was that Grandparents may never see their families in person again because of the risk. I am always against broad generalizations, but these…they stuck in my heart BIG because I know how powerful God is.

This was of course, before George Floyd was murdered. (Yes, I know there are others and I know their names.)

I hate it when monumental things happen and ordinary people like me decide to weigh in and explain what is happening and what we should be doing. The truth is, the only legitimate answer I continually come to for myself is prayer.

Spare me your lists of things I ought be doing. Truth be told, I was already doing them eons before any of this stuff happened. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to look for the beauty and the good in people, because it’s present in all of us. It doesn’t take a lot to stand with those who need inclusivity, assistance, justice, acceptance, equality, a voice and/or especially love -because it’s what is expected of ALL of us.

It is still true that hearts and voices joined together, lifted to the heavens land squarely in the lap of the Almighty. God hears us and He STILL answers prayers. I will continue to use my knees as I always have and while I’m at it, I’ll be praying that your prayers are joined with mine.

PS-You’re missing out if you don’t click through and listen to this beautiful song!

When We Pray by: Tauren Wells

Lyrics:

People hurting, people broken
Beaten down and feeling hopeless
Wonder if it’s gonna always be this way
Who will speak up for the captive
Show some love and heal a past that
Binds the wounds we think will never go away
But what if we could be a people on our knees
As one before the King
‘Cause we believe
All the world starts changing
When the church starts praying
Strongholds start to break
Oh, when we pray
Prison walls start shaking
At the sound of praising
Nothing stays the same
Oh, when we pray
Oh, when we pray, oh
I see revival rising
I see hope on the horizon
As a generation stepping out in faith
Because we will be a people on our knees
As one before the King
‘Cause we believe
All the world starts changing
When the church starts praying
Strongholds start to break
Oh, when we pray
Prison walls start shaking
At the sound of praising
Nothing stays the same
Oh, when we pray
Oh, when we pray, oh
Let Your kingdom come, Lord
Let Your will be done

In Jesus’s name (when we pray)
In Jesus’s name (when we pray)

From The Angels:

You are part of an awesome and powerful team of benevolent beings. They surround, guide, and love you constantly. If you are in danger, they will intervene with warnings or lifesaving measures. If you are afraid, they will comfort you with the energy of Divine love. If you are confused, they will whisper guidance in your ear.

Your angels and guides ask you to talk to them more frequently. Have mental conversations with them about everything, and you will soon see evidence of their existence. Soon, the angels will enlist you to help other people. If you ever feel doubtful about your ability to help others, ask the angels to help you release these fears.

God, the angels and the ascended masters who love, protect and guide you are watching over you right now. YOU ARE NOT ALONE and YOU ARE SAFE!

All of your prayers are always answered. Sometimes you may not feel this way, because the answer comes in unexpected ways. Perhaps you receive an intuitive feeling or a new opportunity appears–or a book falls off the shelf. The angels answer our prayers very often by giving us ideas or information in these everyday ways.

The angels request that you be extra observant at this time. Notice everything that you hear, say, think, and feel. Be especially alert to help that comes to you, and be sure to accept that help. You do deserve this assistance and many times God enlists people to act as Earth angels who bring you answers to your prayers.

Fear not, beloved one. Your prayers have been heard and answered.

Jesus looked straight at them and answered, “This is impossible for human beings, but for God everything is possible.”

Matthew 19:26 GNB

Today’s Prayer:

Dear Lord,

It feels gloomy outside today, even though the sun is shining and it’s trying to enter my soul. Please help me to defeat it. When I was down and scared and I reached for your hand, it was there. I know it’s there right now because I believe even though I cannot see.

Please send the light of your love into every person’s heart. Enlighten us and enable us to see one another through the eyes you intended us to use all along–the eyes of love, compassion and understanding. Help us to recognize that we belong to one another and that it’s up to each of us to take care of one another.

Help us to listen to and finally hear one another and let us do so with the intent of finding our similarities instead of our differences. Reform the hearts that need it; open the hearts that need it; heal the hearts that need it.

Help us all to shine in the light of your unending and all encompassing love and forgiveness.

In your Son Jesus name, I humbly pray.

I love you.

Amen

Oh Quiet Mind Where Art Thou? Day Four.

I don’t think there is a person among us who isn’t stressed out. Hoping these few words will help a little.

Not sure what compels me to keep numbering these blogs, but here I am again in the wee hours of the morning, picking away at this virtual keyboard. It’s dark and quiet and I am finding myself alternating between moments of anxiety, clarity, dread and peace. Trying to quiet the mind is an ongoing battle many of us are facing right now. Seems like mine is working double overtime tonight.

I am catching myself being overly angry and critical in my thoughts. “I don’t approve of what this person’s doing or how that person is handling this crisis. That person’s attitude offends me. This person makes my skin crawl. Why do I have to be bothered right now? What’s going to happen next? Doesn’t she ever stop talking? Why is she so loud? Where is my next assignment? I would have had them out by now, if I were doing it. Doesn’t she ever put the phone down? Why did he say that? I wouldn’t handle it that way.”

Who IS this tiny mean girl in my brain anyway? This isn’t who I normally am. Thankfully it truly isn’t, which makes it easier for me to realize that it’s probably just a normal byproduct of being stressed out and overly stimulated by the constant news of Covid 19. I mean seriously. No one speaks of anything else. I understand why, but it’s hard to take in never-ending doses. Isn’t it?

Today after work my husband and I sat in our living room with the TV off and the windows open. It was glorious. There was a lovely breeze and the sun was shining and for those few moments I felt at peace. I asked why he had the TV off (because he is usually a 24/7 news enthusiast) and he said, “It’s too much. I am just tired of hearing it. Silence is good.” And he was right. We have plans to repeat this behavior again today.

It’s important to cultivate time for peace in daily life. I know right now this may seem impossible. You may be home with a house full of children or caring for ailing parents or living with a spouse you don’t get along with and on top of this you’ve lost your job and you don’t know how you will pay your bills…the list goes on and on for all of us. My sitting here in the dark telling you to cultivate peace in your daily life might even make you angry. That’s okay. I’ll just blame it on the tiny mean girl in my brain.

The thing is, there are aspects of our lives that are currently out of our control, like having to stay in our homes, what’s being broadcast across all media, places of employment being closed, having to work from home and home school your kids at the same time…the list is endless. Here in Kentucky just two days ago our cells phones and TV’s went off as if there was an incoming bomb ready to hit. It was just a reminder to stay at home. Talk about out of our control coupled with LOUD and uncalled for!

We have to remember there are still plenty of things within our control such AS carving out a time for peace. This can mean anything you want it to. I cannot emphasize enough how a simple thing like declaring silent time in the house works wonders. Music is incredibly helpful too. Put on your favorites and sing or meditate. Sit in a chair outside and breathe in the fresh morning or evening air. Sit there with your favorite beverage and simply BE in the moment. Write out a list of positive affirmations or keep a book to write your prayers in. You get where I am going! Pick something and force yourself to do it every day.

Most of all, make the time every day to sit and count your Blessings. I know it sounds trite, with all that is happening around us, but it helps. (Perhaps create a Blessings Box or jar and force yourself and every member of the family to put something in it every day.) And by ALL means, pour your heart out to God who is always present and loves you.

With love,

Bobbe

From the Angels:

Please note that if this message speaks to you, it was absolutely meant FOR you.

Spend some time alone in quiet thought. Clear your mind, and focus on your truth and priorities.

Are you having to push yourself too hard, be loved child of God? The angels remind us that rest is a natural cycle in every living thing. Think of the mighty oak tree that grows in spurts and then rests. It draws its nourishment from deep within the earth, and takes its time before growing upward again. Like the oak tree, it’s important for you to nourish yourself with spiritual and emotional “food.”

While you are resting, take time to reflect on your heart’s true feelings and desires. Your angels speak to you through your heart, and when you listen to and honor your feelings, you walk hand-in-hand with God and the angels. You will know that it is true Divine guidance, and not just your imagination or wishful thinking if it speaks to your desire to make a difference in the world. If your heart calls on you to act one something. Follow through.

Remember too, that there is no one right way to be feeling at this time. Grant yourself permission to be temporarily frightened or sad or angry or worried -for a period of time- but then you must release the feeling completely so the light can enter it. To realize any type of healing, you must stop focusing on “what is wrong” and instead affirm: “Everything is in Divine and perfect order right now.”

Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows! Luke 12:7

Today’s Prayer:

Dearest Lord,

I’m finding it so hard to control my emotions lately. From one hour to the next, I can go from tears, to anger, to laughter, to fear and back again. I’m snapping at my family members -even the dog- and having all sorts of negative thoughts. Please help me to find a way to bring some peace into this crazy human life right now. I know that I can do all things through you, but I often get so wrapped up in what’s going on in my life, that I forget to ask you for help. Even worse, I almost always forget that once I ask you for assistance in my life, I can stop worrying over it, because I’ve placed my burden exactly where it should be.

Jesus, our world is broken and we need you to show us the way. Help us to step back, pick up our faith, breathe in the light of your unending love and move forward renewed.

Please Bless and keep my friends, old, new and those I’ve never met and my family healthy, safe and bathed in your light.

I pray in your name, Jesus.

Amen

From Bobbe:

If you are reading this and you have a prayer request, please leave it in the comments where I will see it and others will too. Miracles happen when we pray together.

Click here to be taken to yesterday’s messages and prayer.

Spill Your Heart

Return to me, dear one. I am longing to hear the contents of your heart. There is time enough in the day for all things. You must decide what is most important. Will it be clean clothing or a clean heart or both?

sun

Dear Child:

You decide.

I love you.

God.

Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. — Luke 3:8 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today’s Verse…

Grace is given to us as a free gift. It cannot be earned or merited. But salvation that does not move us out of our self-destructive and rebellious ways is counterfeit. Repentance is a life change. It is a realization that we have been going the wrong way on a one-way street. It is an acknowledgement that trying to guide our own lives is always going to end in disappointment, disaster, and death without Jesus being Lord of both our lips and our lives. We know that God’s grace is marvelous, but let’s also learn that his will is gracious. As we do, we will change our behavior to reflect the character of the Father who sent his Son to be the atoning sacrifice for our sins! (verseoftheday.com)

From The Angels:

(Keep in mind that if this speaks to you, it IS meant for you.)

Divine Guidance: If you could see yourself as spirit sees you, there would be no doubt about the importance of this life. You would understand why it’s so vital that you wake up fully and walk the Earth like the Divine being you truly are. Your angels are inspiring you make your best efforts to create a life worthy of remembering. You know the potency of using your next present moments to masterfully create a new way of being.

Being able to make miracles happen is fundamentally a result of how you choose to align yourself, how you choose to use your mind, and how much faith you have in being able to use it to affect your physical world.

You have teachers, observers, and divine guidance available at any time. This world is your arena for growth and learning with the specific purpose of serving and evolving into higher levels of love. There is a higher power working in the universe beyond mere cause and effect. Pay close attention God and the angels are trying to speak to you.

Body Care: Your powerful angels work to heal the challenges that life presents and help balance your body, establish healthy habits, release any worries, protect you in your travels, and arrange happy encounters.

By removing unhealthy psychic toxins, this allows you to receive intuitive insights. This is an important aspect of connecting with a higher power.

When you are overwhelmed, take shallow breaths. It is during those times when deep breathing exercises can help you re-focus, breathe peace into the situation, and release old patterns or negative energy that no longer serve your purpose. If you feel tense, go outdoors for some fresh air, and ask your angels to help center your breath and oxygenate your mind, body, heart, and soul.

Listening: It’s easy to get busy in life trying to do everything at once. You can listen and work at the same time but sometimes multi-tasking isn’t the best use of our time. Sometimes we have to stop, look people in the eyes, and give them the gift of listening.

We need to take time to deposit value in their hearts. We need to support one another, and listening is an amazing way of doing just that.

As you go about your day, the angels remind you to give people the gift of listening. It seems like such a little thing, but those little deposits will eventually make a big difference. When you make deposits in people, you are making deposits in eternity, and that is what pleases the heart of God.

Violence never again!

War never again!

Terrorism never again!

In God’s name,

may all religions bring upon earth

justice and peace,

forgiveness, life and love!

Blessed Pope John Paul II – 01.24.2002

At the center of the universe is a

loving heart that continues to beat

and that wants the best for every person.

Anything we can do to help foster

the intellect and spirit and emotional growth

of our fellow human beings, that is our job.

Those of us who have this particular vision

must continue against all odds.

Life is for service.

mister rogers neighborhood – fred rogers – 1928-2003

Hope Whispers

The darkest periods of my life have always been the most hope-filled. I can’t pinpoint who taught me this or when, as I cannot recall a time this wasn’t in my heart. The times I have been face down on the pavement of life, I’ve always had one eye focused on the love of God and the Blessing that’s surely on the way.

god-listenings

Whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. Mark 11:24

These are the times my heart whispers to me, “God will heal this. God sees you. God sees!”

I believe the Almighty does see, hear and feel everything I go through on this earth. Being the loving father He is to me; He waits for me to find the lesson of the experience; and when I do, He sends His grace.

That being said, it’s a dark time for me right now. For days I’ve been up at five am succumbing to tears and lamentations. It’s so hard to find the hope in a situation that keeps replaying itself in the exact same manner year after year. I keep telling myself, “God sees”, yet for the moment, it isn’t bringing me any resolution.

I do not know what to do in order to fix this. I don’t know that it can be fixed. I know perfectly well that the definition of insanity is repeating the same action over and over again expecting a different result. However, in this case, I am not the one repeating the same action and I already feel I have tried every possible approach.

Still in all, I keep one eye open, knowing unequivocally that through every single period of darkness in my life, God has revealed Himself to me in miraculous ways.

And so I will pray again, believing God will heal this situation, and He will.

Dear God:

I can’t. You can. Please Do.

Thank you in advance.

I love you.

Amen.

From The Angels:

Romance: Your angels have heard your appeals for romance.

If you are doing something you love to do, if you are engaged and passionate, it is like a giant beacon. Embrace the strong, fearless side of you personality that you may have forgotten about.

The angels may ask you to join a group or take a class in which you might meet someone with similar interests. Follow this guidance and you will discover the romance you are seeking.

Blessings: As you continue the journey of rediscovering your Divine nature, we surround you with our love and blessings.

Your success will come from facing your challenges when they arise and discovering new paradigm solutions. You will have opportunities to pinpoint and resolve many longstanding issues during this cycle. The key here is staying in the present and addressing what is there, when it is in front of you. This means avoiding the temptation to procrastinate. It means developing more self-trust and more in-the-moment connection with your inner wisdom.

We need to take time to deposit value in their hearts. We need to support one another, and listening is an amazing way of doing just that.

Bonus:
Trust: You have to be willing to pour in everything you have before you can see Gods increase flowing in your life. Believe in yourself, the angels emphasize the value of self-trust.

The angels encourage you to give God what you have in your hands today, and as you stay faithful to do your part, God will do His part.

When you put action behind your faith and trust God, He will pour wisdom, strength, and creativity into you and help you accomplish the dreams and desires He has placed in your heart. The angels ask you to trust in God and to trust in them, they will help you trust yourself.

Blessed are they who give
without expecting even thanks in return,
for they shall be abundantly rewarded.

Blessed are they who translate
every good thing they know into action,
for ever higher truths shall be revealed unto them.

Blessed are they who do God’s will
without asking to see results,
for great shall be their recompense.

Blessed are they who love and trust their fellow beings,
for they shall reach the good in people and
receive a loving response.

Blessed are they who have seen reality, for they know
that not the garment of clay but that which activates
the garment of clay is real and indestructible.

Blessed are they who see the change we call death
as a liberation from the limitation of this earth-life,
for they shall rejoice with their loved ones
who make the glorious transition.

Blessed are they who after dedicating their lives
and thereby receiving a blessing, have the courage and faith
to surmount the difficulties of the path ahead,
for they shall receive a second blessing.

Blessed are they who advance toward the spiritual path
without the selfish motive of seeking inner peace,
for they shall find it.

Blessed are they who instead of trying to
batter down the gates of the kingdom of heaven
approach them humbly and lovingly and purified,
for they shall pass right through.

~Mildred Norman

Dear Lord:

Remind me of anyone I need to forgive today (especially myself), and then please help me to obey you in this.

Amen

Three R’s.

Time to rest, regroup, and recharge.

This morning brought me a cloud of tears, feelings of despair, defeat, uneasiness and deep sorrow. A situation in my life that I thought was on the mend, just isn’t and I have begun to brace for the reality that it never will be. It’s a heartbreaking reality I have to come to terms with or it may devour me.

On the road to work this morning I was lamenting to my husband that I feel there is so much hatred in our country right now, I am unconsciously absorbing it. In some cases it’s blocking my heart and in others, it’s seeping in making me hyper sensitive. Things that I ordinarily take the high road on are affecting me in very negative ways. Some times I feel like I am just plain crazy.

That is my cue to step back and unplug. Time to rest, regroup, and recharge.

tree

The Giving Tree

An Angel Reminder: Praise and blame, gain and loss, pleasure and sorrow come and go like the wind. To be happy, rest like a great tree in the midst of them all. ~Jack Kornfield.

Tree have been symbolic and sacred to humans from as long as we have been here on Earth. A tree’s branches reach up to heaven, and its roots venture deep into the sacred ground. Think about a tree in a storm. It can withstand great assaults from nature, but it continues to stand strong, continuing to give to us. Sometimes our position in life is that of a strong giving tree. Other times the wind picks up and hurls the usual insults of life on us, and we feel unappreciated, which diminishes our ability to give. After the wind and rain, through, the sun will warm our branches and we will again be able to provide shade for those who need it.

If you are interested in angels, you are very sensitive and are happiest when you are able to give love. What if you are asked to keep giving until finally there is practically nothing left of you? For a special treat, read The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein.

An Angelic Reflection: I will give and be given great love.

(Angel Courage: Terry Lynn Taylor & Mary Beth Crain ©1999 Harper Collins)

From The Angels:

Trust: You have to be willing to pour in everything you have before you can see Gods increase flowing in your life. Believe in yourself, the angels emphasize the value of self-trust.

The angels encourage you to give God what you have in your hands today, and as you stay faithful to do your part, God will do His part.

Balance: Restore me to balance in body, mind, and spirit. Remove everything from my consciousness and body that is not in perfect alignment with your loving plan for me.

I give my full permission and cooperation to all healing forces of Divine Love and ask God and the angels to lift all of my burden.

Answered Prayer: Each day connect with your soul allow the divine light in. Your prayers have been answered.

In your life find a way to experience spiritual devotion through prayer or meditation in a way that brings out devotional qualities. These qualities or energies are healing. They drive away anger. All of your prayers are always answered.

The angels request that you be observant of everything you see, hear, touch, taste, smell, or sense in any way it is an aspect of Divinity.

The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever. — 1 John 2:17 (NIV)

I lift these hands, dear God, to You,

in praise and thanks for all you do.

You light the path through all my days

and bless me with your loving ways…

I lift these hands dear God, to You,

in troubled hours when joys are few.

You bear me up on eagles’ wings and see

me through each test life brings.

I lift these hands, dear God, to You,

please grant me wisdom, patience, too.

Then fill my heart with love and caring,

precious gifts you’ve made for sharing.

~Emily Matthews

I see no stranger, I see no enemy

Wherever I look, God is all I see

I don’t think of us and them

No one do I hate or condemn

I see God’s image – each one a friend.

Of any religion, caste or race

All I see is God’s shining face

His smiling face, His gracious face.

Accept as beautiful all His design

I learnt this truth in sangat divine

One Word resounds in me and you

Waheguru … Waheguru …

In him, in her, in me and you

Waheguru … Waheguru …

Beholding in every being His light

I bloom like a flower in joy and delight.

Adi Granth – Guru Arjun Dev Ji – Ca. 1604 ce.

Negative Self Talk

positive-life-negative-mind

Our lives are filled with challenges, changes, fulfillment, surprises, ups and downs. More importantly, they are ours to do with what we wish, each and every day. When we are confused, confined or when we take a wrong turn, we may need some help working through the muddle and getting back on track. It is during these times, especially, that we must believe in ourselves and trust that we can indeed do what we set out to do. Our angels are always with us and they believe in us. They encourage us to do our best, explore the unknown, fulfill our dreams, and then dream anew. Our angels inspire us to be all that we can be.

In the pursuit of happiness many people are too busy to find that which they seek. Frequently the happiness we so passionately desire is found in little events that are but whispered. If we don’t pay attention, we miss them. There can be happiness in the way light falls through the trees or in the way autumn leaves flutter to the ground. There can be happiness in the way our children call for us by name or in the familiar sight of our home as we round the corner two blocks away. Happiness weaves is way through precious memories and valueless keepsakes that are priceless to us. Many take enormous delight in the presence of a beloved pet, just the way they look at us or the unconditional love they pour out upon us. For some, there is genuine delight in the taste of a specially loved food. We are surrounded by that which can be meaningful and full of delight. The question is, will we be still and quiet long enough to enjoy?

Most people’s unhappiness can be traced directly to the tone of the voice in which they talk to themselves–nagging, demanding, criticizing. Simply stopping to notice inspires compassion and integration. Compassion towards oneself is the prototype of the compassion one has for others. Playing self-condemning and self-improvement games keeps people in the path of always seeking but never finding happiness. Recognize and acknowledge that you are a truly beautiful person you are just the way you are right now!

I’ve discovered I always have choices and sometimes it’s only a choice of attitude!”

How often have you heard the phrase, ‘Nobody’s perfect,’ or even said it yourself? This phrase brings to mind some unspoken judgment that you should be perfect, that you should be able to do and have it all. Well, did you know that unrealistic sense of perfection actually gets in the way of achieving your dreams?

That inner critic, who is inside many of us, is nothing but a troublemaker! I am talking about that nagging little voice inside of you that says, ‘I don’t know if I can do that,’ or ‘I’m not good enough,’ or even, ‘why bother trying when I know it won’t work.’ That inner critic accepts nothing short of perfection! And let’s face it, life is far from perfect!

But back to our inner critic. What it is? It comes from a lack of self-confidence, plain and simple. The funny thing about lacking confidence is that it doesn’t mean you aren’t capable. It has more to do with having unreasonably high expectations. When you accept only perfection, then who on earth can possibly measure up?

What you really need to keep you moving forward are realistic, doable expectations, and the ability to keep a positive outlook, even if you do make a mistake or fail in some plan. As former First Lady Rosalyn Carter has said, ‘Once you accept the fact that you’re not perfect, then you develop some confidence.’

When you are self-confident—and I’m not talking about being a ‘know-it-all’—you know and trust your abilities and set realistic expectations. You can keep a positive outlook and accept the fact that you can make mistakes or even fail, without being wrong or incapable.

So the next time you find yourself expecting perfection, just remind yourself that ‘nobody’s perfect.’

worst

From The Angels: ( As always, if this speaks to you, it’s meant for you!)

Signs: You have asked for a sign from your angels. Pay close attention to everything going on around you scents, color, objects. Be aware of the messages they are trying to alert you … notice sounds, objects.

You’ve asked for heaven to help you. This card signifies that your angels are trying to get your attention with signs.

They are trying to make contact with you.

Answered Prayer: Each day connect with your soul allow the divine light in. Your prayers have been answered.

The angels request that you be observant of everything you see, hear, touch, taste, smell, or sense in any way it is an aspect of Divinity.

Power: The power of your Creator is within you. It doesn’t matter if you’re facing a situation that seems larger than life or something that is a small hurdle the angels and God want to help you overcome it all!

The key to finding resolve in so many of life’s circumstances is to stay in the right frame of mind. You have the power of your Creator within you, all of the His greatness brings into focus who He is; faithful, righteous, good, honest and it diminishes the negative problems you are facing.

You have all the power of Divine love it is unlimited allow yourself shine. He is the one who with just his voice spoke the world and universe and cosmos into being, yet he is interested in the smallest and most intimate details of your life.

Father in Heaven,

ever-living source of all that is good,

keep me faithful in serving You.

Help me to drink of Christ’s Truth,

and fill my heart with His Love

so that I may serve You in faith

and love and reach eternal life.

In the Sacrament of the Eucharist

You give me the joy of sharing Your Life.

Keep me in Your presence.

Let me never be separated from You

and help me to do Your Will.

Amen

Church Lady Woes

In a nano second my mind wandered away, thinking about how much I love my work and the many positive experiences I get to have while working in a church that isn’t of my denomination.

This morning before I got out of bed, I laid there in an attempt to pray. I was lying there asking God to take care of my loved ones and to keep everyone happy, healthy and secure. Also I was seeking help on my current employment situation. (I am just not sure I am supposed to be where I am any more.)

In a nano second my mind wandered away, thinking about how much I love my work and the many positive experiences I get to have while working in a church that isn’t of my denomination. I am Catholic. I work for a liberal Baptist church. Their hands are in everything imaginable and it’s a beautiful thing to witness and on occasion, to get to be involved in.

What has always interested me about this job is what goes on behind the scenes. Growing up a Catholic girl, I only experienced Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation Masses, funerals and Weddings. Aside from the one time as an adult that I joined a new church, I don’t recall ever setting foot inside a church office.

(Wait. There was one other time where I visited a favorite Priest to talk with him about my experience with The Blessed Mother and the Angels. That was a lovely experience I will talk about another day.)

The point is that I don’t think I ever thought about what goes into running a church. Who makes the decisions;how do things operate; how do the bills get paid; where does the money come from? Who steers the direction? Who decides what events to have, etc. Does “The church lady” really exist?

It is mind boggling. (She does exist, by the way, and she has lots of church lady friends.)

Catholics look to the clergy and the clergy have a very clear hierarchy. Most Catholic Churches have a Parish administrator who handles the business end of their affairs and there isn’t much wiggle room. This is not the case where I work. Everything done within my workplace is done by committee. One team handles personnel, another team handles, finances, another team handles worship, another team handles memorials and so on, and on, and on. Every three years the teams rotate.

For the most part everything works out just fine, but there are some years where the tides turn and I start to feel frustrated when things are done that I personally do not agree with. Usually problems occur when someone appears to be acting out of ego instead of what’s in the best interest of the church. This is where I am right now. I don’t like ego-driven anything especially when it interferes with my work happiness.

For the first time I find myself seriously questioning whether or not I am in the right place. It makes me sad.

Returning to my prayers with apologies to the Lord for being so distracted, I hear in my heart:

Dear Child:

Be still and know that I am near. You will hear my direction when your heart is clear and the time is right. For now, offer your best in all that you do. Do take better care of your temple. In this, you will find your joy.

Breathe in. Fill yourself with my love. It is there.

All is well.

God.

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? Matthew 6:25-34

From the Angels:

Divine Timing: Change can be fast, yet keep in mind the importance of patience and Divine timing, developing a trust in the unseen mysteries of spirit working in your life.

The more that you can approach your own shifting with loving kindness, the smoother your road of change will be. On some days it may still feel like a roller coaster ride, yet your self-love can help you to have the necessary steadiness within.

Pay close attention to doors that are open to you. As you continue the journey of rediscovering your Divine nature, angels surround you with their love and blessings.

Healing: The highest purpose of your healer guides is to restore your self-awareness and self-esteem as children of God and help you accept the love and unlimited blessings that God grants you.

Opening your heart and mind to your worthiness is the best healing of all.

Harmony: Strife, confusion and conflict be gone. A difference of opinion has clouded your thoughts.

If you change your focus and look for the common ground of peace, you can bring harmony into your relationships again.

You know that one of the most powerful ways you can fight for your relationships is to be a peacemaker? Beloved child of God, you are a peace-lover at heart. You are bringing unity into your relationships.

Focus and look for the common ground of peace, you can bring harmony into your relationships again, you become an Earth angel. Remember, God and the angels tells us that blessed are the peacemakers. When we dwell together in unity, we honor God and open the door for His hand of blessing in every area of our lives!

Life is a tapestry: We are the warp; angels, the weft; God, the weaver. Only the Weaver sees the whole design.

Please God.

Dear Lord:

I persist in feeling unsettled and out of balance. How is it possible to wake up and in one twenty-four hour period suddenly feel I may not be where I am supposed to be?

Where I thought I was settled and safe, I now feel like a lamb among a family of tigers.

Still I know in my heart that this feeling will pass and so I will look forward until it does.

Please show me the way.

Amen

Dear Child:

Trust that the details of the larger picture are unfolding as they should. You may not understand why things are happening as they are, but I do.

You’ve prayed and prayed asking for my help. You’ve surrendered all to me and I shall not fail you.

Keep the faith. The answers you seek are all ready in motion.

All is well.

I love you,
God.

Please God

An Angel Reminder: Thank you. God.

Considering how challenging life has become in this fast-paced world, one can imagine that the words please, God are rising at all hours, in all languages, from all kinds of people. We usually beg God to change our environment or the people around us. But the truth is, when we ask God to please bring us a change, we are in fact asking God to change us. Since we are the ones sending the prayer, God can best answer that prayer by initiating changes in us. sure, it would be great if God could get rid of all the mean people messing things up, but that will happen only when individuals truly reach a change in their own consciousness–when each person takes responsibility for change in the world by being, themselves, willing to change. The angels are here to help us change, and then change some more.

Next time you have the urge to send out a “please, God,” think about sending out a “thank you, God, for giving me the strength and courage to change.” You will begin to see with new eyes the things you can change in your own life and your own perception that will bring more peace. At the heart of each cry to God is a simple intention to bring peace to our hearts and souls. When we are truly peaceful, we have mo need to beg God for anything; we have it all.

An Angelic Reflection: I will let the angel intercept my pleas and usher in a real change of heart and consciousness.

From The Angels

Healing: The highest purpose of your healer guides is to restore your self-awareness and self-esteem as children of God and help you accept the love and unlimited blessings that God grants you.

Opening your heart and mind to your worthiness is the best healing of all.

Surrender & Release: If we could see the miracle in letting go our whole life would change. Let go, allow God and the angels to help you.

When we willingly release and begin the process of healing from the unhappy situation, we may find we gain the necessary clarity that was not apparent to us before. In having gained clarity individuals often regain their own self determination and strength.

The angels ask you to try not to control the outcome of your troubling situation. It can take a lot of courage to let go and trust in the decision to do so but It may also be one of the most valuable decisions we can ever make. Let go, and let God help you!

Trust: You have to be willing to pour in everything you have before you can see Gods increase flowing in your life. Believe in yourself, the angels emphasize the value of self-trust.

The angels encourage you to give God what you have in your hands today, and as you stay faithful to do your part, God will do His part.

Woe to those who go to great depths to hide their plans from the LORD, who do their work in darkness and think, “Who sees us? Who will know?”— Isaiah 29:15 (NIV)

Today’s Prayer:

Let me love thee, I am gladdest
When I’m loving thee the best;
For in sunshine or in sadness
I can find in thee my rest.
Love will soften every sorrow,
Love will lighten every care,
Love unquestioning will follow,
Love will triumph, love will dare.

~~~

Eternal Father, I humbly adore Thee, and thank Thee for having created me, and for having redeemed me through Jesus Christ. I thank Thee most sincerely for having made me a Christian, by giving me the true faith, and by adopting me as Thy son, in the sacrament of baptism. I thank Thee for having, after the numberless sins I had committed, waited for my repentance, and for having pardoned (as I humbly hope) all the offenses which I have offered to Thee, and for which I am now sincerely sorry, because they have been displeasing to Thee, who art infinite goodness. I thank Thee for having preserved me from so many relapses, of which I would have been guilty if Thou hadst not protected me. But my enemies still continue, and will continue till death, to combat against me, and to endeavor to make me their slave. If Thou dost not constantly guard and succor me with thy aid, I, a miserable creature, shall return to sin, and shall certainly lose Thy grace. I beseech Thee, then, for the love of Jesus Christ, to grant me holy perseverance unto death. Jesus, Thy Son, has promised that Thou wilt grant whatsoever we ask in his name. Through the merits, then, of Jesus Christ, I beg, for myself and for all the just, the grace never again to be separated from Thy love, but to love Thee forever, in time and eternity.

Broken a little

Yesterday I violated a rule of mine. I cried at work. More. Than. Once.

Yesterday I violated a rule of mine…and I couldn’t help it. (Sucks) I cried at work. More. Than. Once. Tonight I am still sitting here weepy, only now I am mad at myself for being weepy at work today. (Argh. I am soooooooo much better than this.)

To break it down, I have been a participant in multiple high stress situations beyond my control since before summer started. Most of them involve trying to handle the estate and final sale of my recently departed mother-in-law’s home from across several states…but there are others as well. I seem to be meeting myself coming and going. (Keep in mind we are crossing into November. That is a long time to be in near constant stress.)

At this point, if my tolerance for negativity were a sponge, mine would be oozing and dripping all over the counter top. Though I know this will subside eventually, right now I am hyper sensitive. At least I am aware of it, right?

All of this brings me to a reflection from days gone by:

What would happen if:

For one day only, we choose to speak solely when necessary?
For one day only, we speak not ONE word to another ABOUT what another person said, did, thought or acted like? (In short, we do not speak about others unless it is to communicate something positive and wonderful?)
For one day only, we turn off the car radio and cell phone and instead, offer sincere prayer for anyone we pass on the street?
For one day only, we projected all the love we have in our lives to somewhere else, say, the Middle East?
For one day only, we keep our secrets between ourselves and God?
For one day only, we choose to follow, rather than to lead?
For one day only, we were quiet enough to hear God’s voice inside us?

What would it say?

In the past, I used to declare every Monday: “Affirmation Monday”. My friends and I would post what our intentions and affirmations were for the week. Maybe today might be a good day to do some reflecting on the times in our lives when we’ve been hurt someone else’s words or deeds and how we can help to eradicate this type of behavior in our own lives.

Yesterday Charlie and I were talking about how people speak to one another. I related an experience I had at a film event where a girl I have never met and who is probably thirty years my junior, kept calling me “baby”. “Baby, Baby…are you sitting in that chair?” I was polite and smiled, but inside I wanted to take her by the arm and say to her, “Listen to yourself, you sound like an imbecile; is this really the image you want to project here?” I realize it was a small thing that isn’t worth dwelling on, or is it? Today I’m still thinking about that girl and wondering; Who is her mother? Why wasn’t she taught how to be respectful? Did she think she was being cute? How many of this girl are out there? (ha ha).

Sometimes without realizing it, even the inflections we use may cause another to misinterpret the meaning behind what we are saying. How many times are we so consumed in our own thoughts that when a person asks us a question, we only half answer them or worse, our tone indicates we feel we are being bothered?

My affirmation for the coming week is to be totally present in my conversations, to listen, rather than react, to offer love when I don’t have to. (This and to leave my tears at home where they belong!)

What will be your affirmations?

From the Angels:

Healing: The highest purpose of your healer guides is to restore your self-awareness and self-esteem as children of God and help you accept the love and unlimited blessings that God grants you.

Opening your heart and mind to your worthiness is the best healing of all.

Self-Acceptance: You are important and know that you are called to add value to the world around you.

You have rich treasure inside you that people need. You have more in you than you realize, and you can accomplish more than you ever thought possible.

No matter where you are in life today, you have potential to increase, grow, to be strengthened, and to move forward. God created you for His good purpose and you are His masterpiece!

Trust: You have to be willing to pour in everything you have before you can see Gods increase flowing in your life. Believe in yourself, the angels emphasize the value of self-trust.

Signs: You have asked for a sign from your angels. Pay close attention to everything going on around you scents, color, objects. Be aware of the messages they are trying to alert you … notice sounds, objects.

You’ve asked for heaven to help you. This card signifies that your angels are trying to get your attention with signs.

They are trying to make contact with you.

Well, I don’t know what will happen now.
We’ve got some difficult days ahead.
But it doesn’t matter with me now.
Because I’ve been to the mountaintop.
And I don’t mind.
Like anybody, I would like to live a long life.
Longevity has its place.
But I’m not concerned about that now.
I just want to do God’s will.
And He’s allowed me to go up to the mountain.
And I’ve looked over.
And I’ve seen the promised land.
I may not get there with you.
But I want you to know tonight, that we,
as a people will get to the promised land.
And I’m happy, tonight.
I’m not worried about anything.
I’m not fearing any man.
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord

Martin Luther King Jr. – 1968

Weeping may endure for a night but joy comets in the morning. Psalm 30:5

Hauntings

Psychics say the way to end a haunting is to talk to the ghost, set it on the right track, and give it a boot in the behind, right into the light. The next time you find yourself haunted by a painful memory, you might try doing the same thing.

crying-eyes

Most people in my life are completely unaware (unless they are immediate family or have read my blogs for eons) that back in 2001 I was diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). The diagnosis was made after I was assaulted that same year. I learned back then, that I had probably developed PTSD much earlier in life.

That being said, I consider myself fully recovered even though I am told it never goes away. I know this is true, because I have completely unexpected flare ups from time to time. I still consider myself recovered, however, because when the flares do appear, I recognize them and take the proper steps to get into the present moment.

Earlier this week I was blindsided by a situation at work where I felt someone was overstepping his boundaries. We were in an important meeting and he contradicted me several times over things he didn’t even have experience with. Throughout the day, he repeatedly incorrectly answered questions intended for me. At one point he swore I’d been given a certain list, when in fact, I haven’t and so on and so on. The entire scenario felt so ego-driven to me, it triggered a three-day long reaction.

My mind knew that he was acting partly on ego and that his intentions were probably to be helpful, not hurtful. Even so, my PTSD took me back to a time long ago where I felt belittled and betrayed and shamed. Immediately my heart-felt broken, as if none of the people I have come to love so much through my work place, really care about me at all. I sat on the couch that night feeling the familiar pangs of having the best of my intentions mocked as being fake and stupid and worse, that I had no one to go to for help.

Not a pretty place to be.

It’s taken three days to fight my way back to the truth. This was one incident in time with a person who wasn’t self-aware enough to realize he was over-stepping. I choose to believe his intention was to be helpful. I also believe his actions were ego-based, but I have to let that go and not dwell on it.

I make a conscious decision to affirm the following: It’s not true that people do not care about me; that is something from the past. It is a fact that I usually act from a place of purity. There is nothing fake about me. I am worthy. I should be treated with respect. I deserve to feel safe and protected. My mistakes in life do not define me as a failure of a person.

This morning I remembered a passage in one of my favorite books that talks about living according to old patterns that are no longer useful etc. It’s an excellent and thought-provoking little piece.

One doesn’t have to have PTSD to replay old tapes that do not serve any more. How many of us can remember and list every mistake we ever made, but we have trouble remembering the good things we’ve done?

HAUNTINGS

An Angel Reminder: It’s when we mistake memory for life that we get into trouble.

All of us live, to some extent, in haunted houses populated by the noisy ghosts of memory. Voices of parents, grandparents, old lovers may haunt us. Regrets for things done or left undone may dog us, filling us with guilt and freezing us in our tracks every time we try to get on with our lives. Unfortunately, the goblins and demons of the past often shriek and moan so loudly that we can’t hear the present. And so, without even realizing it, we live according to old patterns that are no longer useful, mistaking memory for reality and letting past mistakes destroy present possibilities. When we’re being haunted, it’s helpful to remember that our ghosts are as stuck as we are. They, too, would like to get a life, but they are compelled to repeat their tiresome patterns because they just don’t know any better. Psychics say the way to end a haunting is to talk to the ghost, set it on the right track, and give it a boot in the behind, right into the light. The next time you find yourself haunted by a painful memory, you might try doing the same thing.

Are you being haunted? If so, by what or whom? Are there regrets or past actions that you haven’t resolved, or people from the past who still hold you in their grip? How is this affecting your present life? Have you ever looked these ghosts straight in the eye? When we examine our ghosts, we realize that they really have no power over us, for we can see straight through them.

An Angelic Reflection: I make the distinction between past and present reality.

From The Angels:

Serenity: You are moving into a time of greater inner peace and tranquility.

Peace of mind means feeling secure, and knowing that you’re always provided for. Even if your logical mind cannot fathom how a challenge could be resolved, peace of mind means that you trust that God will create a miraculous solution. This sort of faith is always warranted because faith is a key component in experiencing such miracles.

By drawing this card, the angels reassure you that peace of mind is within you. You can feel serene, even in the midst of great turmoil. It’s a mistake to think that you have to wait until your life is problem free before you can be happy and peaceful. The opposite is actually true. First, you work toward serenity, and then your life challenges lessen and disappear. Serenity is your natural state of mind, and the angels are now working with you to actualize this.

Retreat: Spend some time alone in quiet thought. Clear your mind, and focus on your truth and priorities.

Are you pushing yourself too hard, beloved child of God? The angels remind us that rest is a natural cycle in every living thing. Think of the mighty oak tree that grows in spurts and then rests. It draws its nourishment from deep within the earth, and takes its time before growing upward again. Like the oak tree, it’s important for you to nourish yourself with spiritual and emotional “food.”

Emerging: Your true self-radiant, powerful, successful, and intelligent-is now shining through the surface. Allow your true self to be visible to others, for you lift them up and inspire them.

You are awesome in so many ways, and you are beginning to trust and reveal your true nature more easily. At one time, you may have believed that you had to hide your feelings from others (or even from yourself!). Now, however, you realize how vital and attractive expressing your authentic self is.

Your angels are guiding you to honor your true feelings by expressing them to yourself and others. The angels will help you lovingly talk about your feelings so that no misunderstandings occur with friends and loved ones. Your angels will never guide you to do or say anything that could hurt you or anyone else! They will also ensure that your life will emerge to a new level of inner peace as you let your true self come out and play.

Today’s Prayers:

As you leave this place
may the Living Lord go with you;
May he go behind you, to encourage you,
beside you, to befriend you,
above you, to watch over you,
beneath you, to lift you from your sorrows,
within you, to give you the gifts of faith, hope, and love,
and always before you, to show you the way.

benediction – blair monie

Divine Mother
Mother of the Universe
Bless us with peace
Within and without.

jalaja bonheim – 2000

Help us, O God our Savior, for the glory of your name; deliver us and forgive our sins for your name’s sake.
— Psalm 79:9 (NIV)

Category: depression

Through Our Faith -NO Weapon Formed Against US Shall Prosper.

From The Angels:

Today’s Prayer:

Like this:

Oh Quiet Mind Where Art Thou? Day Four.

From the Angels:

Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows! Luke 12:7

Today’s Prayer:

From Bobbe:

Like this:

Spill Your Heart

Like this:

Church Lady Woes

Like this:

Please God.

Like this:

Hauntings

( “Angel Courage”, Terry Lynn Taylor and Mary Beth Crain, ©1999, Harper San Francisco)

Like this:

From The Angels:

Today’s Prayer:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

From the Angels:

Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. So do not be afraid; you are worth much more than many sparrows! Luke 12:7

Today’s Prayer:

From Bobbe:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

(Angel Courage: Terry Lynn Taylor & Mary Beth Crain ©1999 Harper Collins)

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

Like this:

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

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Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

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( “Angel Courage”, Terry Lynn Taylor and Mary Beth Crain, ©1999, Harper San Francisco)

Please. Oh Please SHARE this!

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