A New Year is Upon Us ~ Welcome to 2014!

Tonight we bid farewell to the year 2013 and we welcome in a New Year ~ 2014. Resolutions will be made. Celebrations will take place. Some people will attend church services. Others will choose to numb themselves with libations at parties. Fireworks, champagne, confetti! These are all part of New Year celebrations.

As in previous years, my plans are simple and quiet. I've spent some of this day in meditation and reflection. Another part playing with Lucky Joe as the sun blessed us with warmth on an otherwise cold winter day. Those habits and thoughts that I want to release as 2013 departs have been written down and will be burned at midnight. My intentions for 2014 are pretty well set,. I already know I am ready for change. January is the beginning of a new direction for me. A Reiki class is already on my calendar. There is also some ongoing research into other classes that are "speaking" to me. It feels right.

In the last few years, I've become more and more interested in Buddhism. The Buddhist philosophy touches me at a very deep level. My intention this year is to awaken more to this philosophy as it relates to mindfulness, compassion and non-attachment. The Buddha Dharma Education Association and BuddhaNet website say this about Buddhism:

"Buddhist teachings can be understood and tested by anyone. Buddhism teaches that the solutions to our problems are within ourselves not outside. The Buddha asked all his followers not to take his word as true, but rather to test the teachings for themselves. ln this way, each person decides for themselves and takes responsibility for their own actions and understanding. This makes Buddhism less of a fixed package of beliefs which is to be accepted in its entirety, and more of a teaching which each person learns and uses in their own way."

My questioning mind and rebellious nature has always been challenged when I've been told to believe in a certain way. Thank God that I was born in a country where I am able to study and think as I want.

I enter into 2014 with enthusiasm and a feeling of contentment that this New Year is already wonderful.

May each and every person who reads this blog be happy, healthy and blessed in 2014. Enjoy the challenges and grow through them.

Happy New Year!!!!

Namaste,

Mareda

Are You Happy?

"Tis the day after Christmas and I'm wondering if you are happy. Are you? Did the holidays create a feeling of joy or despair? After all the visiting, the gifts, and the yummy food, how do you feel? Stuffed or still lacking?

As the Christmas holiday inched closer, I found myself surrounded by a flurry of feelings. There were feelings of joy but also feelings of loss. I missed the people no longer here in physical form. I missed the things that "could have been." Yet, as I looked at my home decorated with all its Christmas finery, I felt a great deal of joy at the beauty and for those who are in my life now. My daughter, her boyfriend and, of course, my furry family. I thought of all my friends all over the world. They live in Florida, California, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, Kentucky, Illinois, Colorado, England, Russia, France, Australia. Wow! How lucky I am to have such a world-wide entourage of friends.

As I thought about my feelings, I remembered something I had heard or read many times. We are as happy as we make up our minds to be. How true!

All of us have read or seen news reports about people living on borrowed time. They have a dis-ease that is life threatening. Maybe only months or days to live. Some people are living with disabilities that make it hard or impossible to walk, or talk or do much of anything. And yet, they are happy. How can this be? Are they made up of something different than other people? Are they more secure in their faith? Do they know a secret we don't? Maybe they are more secure in their faith or maybe they do have a secret.

Personally, I think it could be faith or maybe they have just decided to be happy. They know how to make "lemonade out of the lemons" they have been given. Is it easy? Maybe but maybe not.

Yes, I am asking a lot of questions. Questions that need reflection. Today, if sadness creeps into your world, take a moment to reflect on all that you have. Release the negative things back into the universe. Start a practice of meditation or prayer. Ask your higher self the questions I have asked. What answers do you receive? Listen to your heart today. And as Bobby McFerrin sang:

"Don't Worry, Be Happy" 

Namaste,

Mareda

CHRISTMAS!

December 25th. The day the world celebrates the birth of Jesus. The day when our thoughts and actions turn to love and peace toward all. What about the other 364 days of the year? It would seem that during those days, we forget the Christmas Love and the Peace we speak of during Christmas.

In metaphysics, we tend to believe that the Christmas season is more than just a celebration of the birth of Jesus. It is a celebration of the Christ that lives within each and everyone of us on Planet Earth. It celebrates that Light of God that is expressing through each one as we allow it to do so.

That being said, I acknowledge the challenges that can put a basket over that light. The challenges that take us to a dark place of depression and sadness. Loss of a loved one, loss of a job and the financial stress that goes along with it, fear of being alone. All of these events or feelings make it difficult to believe that this is a Season of Love and Light.

This morning as I was driving my daughter to her work, I was bemoaning something that was making me somewhat sad. Her words of wisdom brought me back to center quickly. She asked why I would let something or someone like that bother me when I had so much more about which to be happy. I guess she was listening to all my "preaching."

Her advice was heeded and I immediately came home and readied myself for our Christmas celebration later this evening.

I had placed a basket over the light. I was choosing to see things as they appear not as Truth. As I became still I wondered what the world would be like if we decided we would not only celebrate the birth of Jesus on this day but also the re-birth of the Christ Light in all people this day. What would happen? Would we take time to listen to other's opinions that differed without judging? Would we stop posting the hate on Facebook? Would we agree to disagree in a consciousness of Love and attempt to come to an agreement?

So today, I am choosing to celebrate the re-birth of the Christ Consciousness within me and all people. My intention is to look beyond those traits or actions that frustrate me and see the innocent babe within.

May this day be a Happy Holy Day for one and all!

Namaste,

Mareda

It's All Good!

Today has been very challenging and it's only noon. Sometimes it is so much easier to talk the talk rather than walk it. For this reason, I am asking for prayers and good thoughts from all who read this blog. Staying in the light is much easier when every thing is going well. It is said that when things become darkest to keep the faith for the Light is there and will appear quicker than one can imagine. So I am keeping the faith and seeing the Good.

Namaste,

Mareda

My Grown Up Christmas List

In ten days, Christians all over the world will celebrate Christmas. Not sure where the month of December has gone but it is quickly disappearing. As I travel through town, it seems there are many more lights up than usual. I'm sure the warm weather earlier this month has something to do with the number of lights but I also wonder if they are an attempt to "light up" a world that seems to need Light.

A song that was written by Linda Thompson and David Foster and released in 2006 is one of my favorite Christmas songs. Not the usual Christmas Carol like "Hark the Herald Angels" or "Joy to the World" but much more specific to the time in which we live. A song that can be and probably is embraced by all faiths and philosophies throughout our world. Here are the lyrics and a link to Amy Grant singing

My Grown Up Christmas List

 

Do you remember me?
I sat upon your knee
I wrote to you
With childhood fantasies

Well, I'm all grown-up now
And still need help somehow.
I'm not a child
But my heart still can dream

So here's my lifelong wish
My grown-up Christmas list
Not for myself
But for a world in need

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start,
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown-up Christmas list

As children we believed
The grandest sight to see
Was something lovely
Wrapped beneath our tree
Well heaven surely knows
That packages and bows
Can never heal
A hurting human soul

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end
This is my grown-up Christmas list

What is this illusion called the innocence of youth?
Maybe only in our blind belief can we ever find the truth

No more lives torn apart
That wars would never start
And time would heal all hearts
And everyone would have a friend
And right would always win
And love would never end, oh
This is my grown-up Christmas list
This is my only life long wish
This is my grown-up Christmas list

Read more: Amy Grant - Grown - Up Christmas List Lyrics | MetroLyrics

 

 Amy Grant singing Grown Up Christmas List

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda



 



 

 

 

Newtown

Today is the 1st anniversary of Newtown. Nothing more needs to be said about that horrible day or about all the days of horror that have occurred in cities and towns across this country and the world. We seem to be a culture of violence. Gotta have those movies that slay the villain and a whole bunch of innocents along the way. Gotta watch those detective movies that get the bad guy after he has eliminated good citizens before his demise. Gotta buy those toy guns for Christmas so kids can play cowboys and Indians. Gotta have those video games that kill zombies or villains. Gotta have that gun in the house or concealed weapon so we can kill the guy who just might kill us if we can't protect ourselves. Enough!

I boycotted violent movies a long time ago. I very very seldom watch detective movies for the same reason. Comedies, musicals, chick flicks are the way I roll. The news is something I may turn on for something of importance but NEVER right before bed. If something bad hasn't happened the media creates something. Enough!

I just wonder what Jesus or Buddha or any other spiritual great would say. There are probably tears in that great beyond.

So today, I will keep some candles lit all day in remembrance especially of all the children who lost their lives in Newtown one year ago today. They are at peace but their loved ones are wondering why and grieving the loss of that innocent who left this plane of existence.

May this angel from "Rest in the Arms of Angels" on Facebook give some solace to those who grieve.

And may the world "get it." Violence begets more violence. That which a person dwells on usually occurs in one's life.

Dwell on Peace, Love, Charity this holiday season
and ALWAYS!

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda



Why?

Have you every asked "Why?" Why is this happening to me? Why am I in such a predicament? Why is this person in my life? or not in my life? Why? A little word. A big question. And usually asked when a person is in a rough spot or visiting that condo in the valley.

I've been asking myself the "why" question a lot lately. As a metaphysician, I believe our thoughts and wishes put us right where we are. This can be somewhat disturbing when the events of our lives are less than what we want.

My lot in life is really pretty good. I have my health, my daughter, my family, my furry family, my friends, a job, a warm home, etc. etc. Yet.....

I am in a very challenging environment. I have gone over and over in my mind about what I may have thought or affirmed to attract this into my life. Last evening, as I was meditating and praying, that still small voice whispered, "Maybe you are there for another reason, another person." Wow! A whole new perspective.

My mantra for the last 20 or so years has been from the Course in Miracles:

"I am here only to be truly helpful.

I am here to represent Him who sent me,

I do not have to worry about what to say or what to do for He who sent me will direct me.

I am content to be wherever He wishes knowing He goes there with me.

I will be healed as I let Him teach me to heal."

 

Maybe the answer lies somewhere within this mantra. Maybe my perspective needs to change. Maybe I need to be a little more kind to me. Maybe I need to listen to that still small voice a little more.

 

Just maybe.......

 

Namaste,

Mareda



 

 



Expect a Miracle!

There is a magnet on my refrigerator that says "I don't believe in miracles; I rely on them!!!"

When I think of miracles I am reminded of a spiritual practitioner from the Religious Science Church on Fee Fee Road who had this to say when I questioned her about the miracle of the birth of Jesus. Her response was that yes it was a miracle just as every birth is a miracle. I'm sure every new parent feels the same way the first time they look into the eyes of their newborn son or daughter. I know I did when I looked into the eyes of that tiny little 9 year old when I first met her in Russia. Even now, I think it was a "miracle" that we were brought together over all those miles and challenges that occurred along the way to her "birth."

Today, I ask you top take a few minutes to count the miracles in your life. They might be as normal as the sunshine shinning today in St. Louis after a couple of days of gloom, snow, sleet and ice. Or maybe as magnificent as a healing of that terminal illness. What's your miracle?

I loved this post on Facebook this morning from Spirit Science and Metaphysics.

\

 

 

How would this world change if we all truly believed we were all miracles? In the words of John Lennon: "Imagine."

 



Have a miraculous day!

Namaste,

Mareda

Nelson Mandela

Much has been said; much will be said; however, I shall just say:

Thank you Mr. Mandela

for being the change we wish to see in this world
and working toward that end.

Photo from NPR

 

Rest in peace knowing you are loved!

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda

 

 

 

 

 

Good Happens!

This has been a challenging day for me. Lots of stuff that I would rather not experience; however, a good-news email just appeared for which I am very thankful.

Sometimes, the good is hidden in what we call bad. I am choosing to know that the good is there. Maybe a game of hide and seek is in order.

My Note From the Universe this morning was as follows:

"Do you realize, you're right in the middle of living your greatest story yet... just before the really "big thing" happens... "those people" show up in droves... strangers know your name... friends place you on a pedestal... wild animals befriend you... and Oprah calls? Do you?!" 

Somehow during the course of the day, I forgot. Glad I remembered now.

Off to remember that Good does Happen! I accept it now.

Namaste,

Mareda

That Still Small Voice

Over the past few weeks I've been doing a lot of spiritual work. Asking for guidance as to what to do, where to go, how to approach things. Last evening as I was getting ready to turn in for the night, my eyes focused on one of the many books in one of my many bookshelves. This was the second night in a row that the same book came into focus. This was a book I read many years ago. Couldn't remember much about it but "something" told me to pick it up and read it again. Now, I've had these "voices" in my head before. I do not suffer from schizophrenia just know when something much bigger than me is providing the guidance I requested.

As an example, soon after my divorce I was seeking a place of spirituality. The churches of my past no long filled me with any type of fulfillment. During those first few years, I was very angry and despondent. One day while grocery shopping at a Kroger store on Big Bend out in Ballwin, a book literally fell into my shopping cart. The author was Terry Cole-Whittaker. The book was The Inner Path From Where You Are To Where You Want To Be. She talked about a church that felt so right for me. I checked the SW Bell Yellow Pages and found the First Church of Religious Science right here in Creve Coeur. I still remember the first time I entered the doors and the sanctuary: I was home! The rest is history. Classes and more classes. My life changed. Fear diminished. I truly discovered God.

Another example was the time I was feeling so low because my parents were getting older and I was sure I would soon be all alone. No family. A voice, loud and clear, said (I kid you not), "Why don't you adopt?" Once again I turned to the yellow pages and started my calls to various adoption agencies. After a very long gestation period, my daughter arrived. Now 23 years old, she is truly "my" daughter. It is actually amazing how alike we are.

I've heard other voices directing me. Sometimes I listen; sometimes I don't. However, I have found that listening is usually the way to go. So I shall listen to the "voice" from last evening and read

Jesus, Life Coach.

 

 

More to follow.

 

 

Namaste,

Mareda



 



Kindness!

 

 

Nothing more needs to be said.

 

 

 

 

Happy Monday Everyone!

 

Today, make someone's heart smile.

You may just change someone's world!

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda

A New Day, A new Month

December 1st! The first day of the last month of 2013. I am setting a new intention for this last month of 2013. Every day of this month, there shall be an entry of some sort on this blog. It may be an original affirmative prayer, a quote from a being of light, or a photo that touches my heart. I feel more empowered when I write which amazes me since I absolutely loathed writing in my younger years. So write I shall. If anything touches you, please comment or become a follower of my blog.

"This is the day the Lord hath made."

It could be no other way for God or Love or Intelligence is all there is.

There is absolutely nothing else but that which is Good and True and Just.

Anything that appears otherwise is just that...an appearance, a belief in duality.

Right now, I turn to that Good and away from anything that denies it.

All is well in my world for all is Good.

I see the Good in that which appears otherwise.

In chaos, there is creation.

In darkness, there is germination.

Right now, I declare that whatever it is that is in my life right now is a stepping stone to my good.

For the Presence and Power of God/Good is right here unfolding in perfect order.

Remembering my origin, I stay focused on that knowing that Divine Right Action is taking place.

I remain alive, awake and aware of all the Good in my life.

In gratitude I release these words knowing that they are placed into the Law of Mind

and must manifest in the here and now.  

It is done.

And so it is!

 

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda



Divine Discontent....Again!

Changes. I truly desire to make some major changes in my life. There is a deep feeling of discontentment surrounding me although I acknowledge all of the good in my life all of the time. Still some things are due for a change.

This weekend, four days for me, I declared I would spend them looking into the changes I desire for my life. I have books; I have websites; I have goals to write; however, have I done this. No. Instead, I cleaned out my garage with the able help of Joe, Ulya's sweetie. Ulya and I put up Christmas decorations. I actually went to the gym! And now I want to rake leaves and then put up more decorations outside. Much has been accomplished but not what I had planned. A part of me is very frustrated that I've neglected what I really wanted to accomplish but maybe it just isn't time for these major changes. (Not telling anyone what they are right now so don't ask.)

As I was drinking my second cup of coffee this morning, I decided to allow myself some slack. Not something I do very often. Maybe, just maybe, there is more mental/spiritual work to do before the concrete begins to take form on the outside. So, here is my affirmative prayer for this morning:

Mother-Father-God, it is in You that I live and move and have my being.

There is nowhere where You are not.

You are here expressing as me now and always.

My mind is an extension of Your Mind.

Wherever I am, You are. We are truly united as one in eternity.

You know of my desires even before I am aware of them.

You know in my heart of heart all that I am and all that I want to be.

Yes, there is a feeling of discontentment emanating into all that I do;

however I am choosing to see it as Divine Discontentment.

There is something I am to do to be of further help,

something to further Your Love on Planet Earth.

Right now, I release my feelings that I have failed this weekend

by choosing to clean and decorate rather than read and study.

Right now, I accept that the changes I am to make in my life are known to You

and are unfolding even as I write this prayer.

My good is unfolding as I move out of the way and allow it to do so.

It is already done in Divine Mind.

I stay awake and aware of doors that are opening for me,

for people who are coming into my life to assist in the changes I seek.

My good is here now. I let go and let God!

Thank you Mother-Father-God.

And so it is!

 

 

Ah, letting go. So easy and yet so difficult at times. Maybe a lesson for me?

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda



 

 

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Hanukkah!

Mother Nature has blessed the St. Louis area with absolutely perfect weather to greet this Thanksgiving Day and celebration of Hanukkah. This year Thanksgiving is celebrated the day after the first night of Hanukkah. This won't happen again for another 77,798 years according to many calculations. A very special time to give thanks and to rededicate our lives to being thankful....all year round.

Since last Sunday was our "official" celebration of Thanksgiving, today is a day of quiet reflection and relaxation for me. I often think about the many things I have for which to be grateful. My Ulya, our furry family of Lucky Joe, Damien and Spooky, our human family, our friends, our home, our work, our country, our world....I could go on and on. I also think about those who have been challenged to live in countries besieged by terror and poverty. And I wonder why. There are lots of metaphysical reasons I could describe in detail; however, I'm just going to say there are reasons above and beyond my human comprehension. One thought I do have is that this world as a whole focuses way too much on the negative. I've said this over and over again. There is a proliferation of violence in the movies and on TV. People tell me "but the good guys won in the end." Enough already! What one focuses on persists. Although challenging to find them, there are positive stories in the newspapers and on the Internet.

Today, I decided to put links of some GOOD things in my blog. They may make you smile or tug on your heart but all in all they are positive life experiences. Please enjoy!

Grateful: A Love Song to the World
Musicians Nimo Patel and Daniel Nahmod brought together dozens of people from around the world to create this beautiful, heart-opening melody. - See more at: http://www.karmatube.org/videos.php?id=4460#sthash.bo2oAzqr.w3UGy5cn.dpuf

Don't Stop Believing - Thanksgiving Flash Mob
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/27/hill-family-thanksgiving_n_4350434.html

Huff Post Good News (This is a wonderful site for Good News)
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/28/top-10-thankful-stories_n_4346605.html

Home for Thanksgiving (Somewhat sad but heartwarming too)
http://www.stltoday.com/news/local/columns/bill-mcclellan/mcclellan-home-for-thanksgiving-and-thankful-to-be-there/article_23a56d51-1bba-5665-8633-87a5fc2624e1.html

20 Simple Reasons to Be Thankful
http://www.mindfueldaily.com/livewell/20-simple-reasons-to-be-thankful

Happy Thanksgiving and Hanukkah!

 Enjoy your turkey...

or your latkes

 

or

 

Celebrate Thanksgivukkah and have both!

 

A once in our lifetime when two faiths can celebrate thankfulness to God and

the religious freedom here in the United States that makes this possible.

 

 

Anyone having links to other Good Stuff on the web is invited to add it to the comment section of this blog. 

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda



 

Thanksgiving is upon us!

In a few days we will officially celebrate Thanksgiving. Turkeys, stuffing, sweet potatoes and more shall grace the tables of most people in the United States. Hopefully, there will be more people celebrating the bounty than not. My family is celebrating today, the Sunday before the official day, to accommodate other Thanksgiving celebrations. A good decision! Friends who share Thursday with family are now able to come.

Yesterday as I awaited the pies to bake into yummy goodness, I read an article about Americans living in other countries. The article described how ex-pats celebrate in Asia, India and other countries. Very interesting to note how sushi and rice are incorporated into the meal. A very disturbing or maybe thought provoking part came when one individual strongly indicated he is grateful to NOT celebrate a holiday that commemorates the beginning of the genocide of Native Americans. I had never really thought of this before. In fact, I usually tend to just think of Thanksgiving as a time of thanks giving.

However, I did do some research into the First Thanksgiving. I must admit history is not something that interests me.  I am challenged enough to live in the present. So I googled the beginning of Thanksgiving. Here is what I found from a National Geographic website:

The Celebration

One day that fall, four settlers were sent to hunt for food for a harvest celebration. The Wampanoag heard gunshots and alerted their leader, Massasoit, who thought the English might be preparing for war. Massasoit visited the English settlement with 90 of his men to see if the war rumor was true. Soon after their visit, the Native Americans realized that the English were only hunting for the harvest celebration. Massasoit sent some of his own men to hunt deer for the feast and for three days, the English and native men, women, and children ate together. The meal consisted of deer, corn, shellfish, and roasted meat, far from today's traditional Thanksgiving feast.

They played ball games, sang, and danced. Much of what most modern Americans eat on Thanksgiving was not available in 1621.

 Although prayers and thanks were probably offered at the 1621 harvest gathering, the first recorded religious Thanksgiving Day in Plymouth happened two years later in 1623. On this occasion, the colonists gave thanks to God for rain after a two-month drought.

This made me wonder what changed. I'm sure the history books have an explanation but I really don't care nor do I totally believe what they say. Just opinions.

Probably the culprit was what is so prevalent today....FEAR! Fear of a civilization that has different customs, different traditions, different beliefs. Fear of not enoughness. Fear when a group of people refuse to change to another's beliefs. Just my opinion but it is my fervent belief that most of what ails this world today is that same issue. We fear what isn't familiar.

This culture has advanced so much technologically but still remains the same in so many ways. What is the solution? I wish I knew. I do know one thing that has assisted me...my parents!

I think about all the things that I wish had been different in my childhood as I am sure many people do; however, my parents were accepting of so much that many of their generation were not.

During the 50's, it was quite common to have "hobos" stop by our home and ask for something to eat. My mother would graciously serve them a sandwich, some pie if it was available and a cup of coffee. People of color were always welcome in my home. There were absolutely no prejudicial remarks that I remember. My parents defended those members of what we now call the gay community. They weren't quite as accepting of different faiths but they gave it their all. As I look back, that was part of a fear of that place called "hell" that so many fear. Once again....fear.

Is fear a part of my life? Sometimes. I have found that as I read and discover more about other cultures, fear becomes a smaller and smaller part of my life. Down deep, we are all the same, all part of a Greater Presence and Power. Call it by whatever name you want.

So this Thanksgiving, I give thanks for many things.

Thank you John and Alyda for teaching me tolerance,

 

 

and a thank you to the Native Americans who celebrated with those Pilgrims long, long ago.

 

Happy Thanksgiving!

 

and

 

Happy Hanukkah!

 

Namaste,

 

Mareda





 

It's November.....already?

It seems impossible that today is the 20th of November! When I look at my last blog entry's date of September 1st, that also seems impossible. Where did September and October go? What have I been doing with my life that this time has passed so quickly? Yes, I know it doesn't speed up or slow down but it sure seems that way.

As I look back, I've dedicated much of my time to work. I work at a job I am very grateful to have but not one I embrace with joy. I work at home readying my yard for the onslaught of fall weather and the winter cold that follows. Now working at home is a joy. My home is my sanctuary. It is a place where I can come and truly be me. A place where family is all important. However, this year the yard proved to be a lot to handle. Ornamental grass that grew and grew and grew. Talk about abundance! The grass could be compared to the negative thoughts that seemed to grow and grow and wanted to take over my consciousness much as the grass wanted to take over my yard.

Well, the grass has been cut down (thank you Joe and Ulya) and the negative thoughts have been weeded. The grass will be replaced this spring with something still to be determined. The thoughts have made way for new beginnings slowly being birthed into fruition. The new beginnings are a work in progress and shall stay in that secret place within for now. Soon, something new and wonderful will make an appearance.

There has also been some fun! The Annual Eckert Family Apple Butter gathering took place in October. Lots of good apple butter was processed with sunshine and the perfect temperature making the day just right!   Tractor rides for the kids and lots of reconnecting for the adults added to the fun.

Then Ulya and I made our first trip to the Eckert's Country Store and Farm in Belleville. To answer the question that is probably on everyone's mind, this Eckert family is not related to us. A good country dinner of fried chicken topped off another beautiful autumn day for the "Eckert Gurls."

Although I must admit, cold weather is not something I look forward to, this has been a beautiful autumn. I cannot remember when the leaves have been brighter or more colorful. It has been a glorious season of bright reds, oranges and gold. Here are a few photos of autumn in Kirkwood and Wildwood.

 

 

 

 

 

And next week we celebrate Thanksgiving! More to come.

Namaste,

Mareda

 

 

It is time to pray now, together!

A short entry from me with a huge request.

Tomorrow, Monday, September 2 at 16 GMT, Neale Donald Walsh and Marianne Williamson are inviting all who are concerned with peace in this world to join them in the Global Collective Prayer Initiative. A quote from Walsh

"We will pray solidly and intentionally for ten minutes that the U.S. will not launch air strikes on Syria, and that the larger Syrian conflict may end, at last, with peace and harmony prevailing."

 For more on the thoughts of Walsh, please check out the following link,

The Global Conversation.

For those who say, it can't be done, I have this to say:

"Be realistic, expect a miracle!"

What has been done in the past has not created peace in any form. Let's try something different for a change. 

Namaste,

Mareda

Too Blessed to be Stressed

I first heard this statement or mantra a few years ago. The checkout lady at the Kirkwood Walmart responded with this statement when I did my routine "and how are you today?" Since then I've heard it a few times and last week one of the women who visits my work place also responded with "too blessed to be stressed." As I thought about how this related to me with my experiences in the last couple of weeks, I too am "way too blessed to be stressed."

Unexpected challenges have been appearing pretty much on a daily basis. Garage doors, cars, daughter's gums, my mouth, Lucky's body have all needed work. And with this work there have been expenses. Oh, my, the expenses. But....I am okay with that. In fact, I am grateful to sign those checks and charge receipts. Let me tell you why. All of the people and businesses involved in these challenges have been highly professional, kind, caring and highly skilled at what they do. I'm going to give each and everyone of them a "high-five" today.

Garage Door ~ A few weeks ago the motor died. It was old, time to become a resident of wherever old garage doors and motors go to rest in peace. I was guided to call DSI, Door Solutions in Ballwin. Steve came out, tried to resuscitate the door one last time but it was over. The door was gone. However, in a matter of weeks (of course, my door is special aka a special size) a new door and motor were installed and I was on my way to ease and silence. Thank you DSI and Steve.

Dental Work ~ Ulya and I have been lax in having regular dental work. Various reasons ranging from expense to our dentist being out of town quite frequently on mission trips. Ulya was having a little bit of a problem with her gum so I decided we needed to try someone else. Happened upon Sensible Dental of Kirkwood. Called and made an appointment the same day. Thank Goodness, she was able to get in quickly as there were some concerns that needed immediate care. Dr. Yu and her staff were absolutely wonderful. Thorough, caring and expert care. Would highly recommend them.

I saw Dr. Yu the following day and was just as impressed. Her hygienist saw something in my mouth that "looked funny" and sent me on to Oral Facial Surgery Institute & Implant Center at Mercy Hospital. Dr. Michael Barbick took a look and assured me there was nothing there. Any doctor that comes in and introduces himself as "Hi, I'm Michael" and then spends a huge amount of time telling me why there is nothing wrong gets an A+++ rating from me.

Fiat of Creve Coeur previously Saturn of Creve Coeur ~ My beloved Phoebe (yes, I name my cars) broke down ten days ago. But what better place to break down than right next to your house? Called Fiat, had Phoebe towed, and soon she was back on the road all fixed and ready to go. As usual with this Lou Fusz dealership, it all unfolded without drama. I'm still upset that Saturns are no longer being manufactured so Phoebe will need to last at least another 10 years.


County Animal Hospital, Ltd. ~ My best furry buddy, Lucky Joseph, is considered a geriatric patient based on his age of 12 years. That being said when Dr. Dana Johnson suggested surgery for Lucky on a couple of tumors, I was hesitant. He was healthy and the tumors were not life-threatening but they were making him uncomfortable. After a few sleepless nights I decided to place my faith and trust in Dr. Johnson and God. Yesterday, Lucky had surgery including the surgical removal of a broken molar. Other than the residual post operative discomfort and that damn cone, he is doing well. Once again, a very competent, caring individual office staff. And thank you Lindsay for looking in on Lucky.

And then there is Mike. Mike has been taking care of my lawn this summer. A young college student at University of Missouri in Columbia, I saw his ad in the Kirkwood Webster Times. He has been dependable and efficient. In fact, he is back in town this weekend and called to see if I wanted him to do the lawn. He had driven by and saw that it needed to be mowed. Thank you Mike. You have a job next summer if you want it.

Am I blessed? You bet I am. Am I going to have to adjust my budget? You bet I am. But gratitude is in my heart for all of the above people and businesses who have service as their highest priority.

Thank you everyone!

Namaste!

Mareda

A Prayer for Peace

The past ten days for me have been days filled with turmoil, both inner and outer. As I look at my personal turmoil, I see that it is so minor compared to that of our world. Conflict seems to be the norm for so many areas of this world. Violence rears its ugly head around every corner. I am particularly concerned with the turmoil in Syria. I am no expert on this region or on what is actually occurring; however, I know that the violence seems to be escalating. With the United States and other countries considering their involvement, I feel a prayer is of utmost importance at this time. 

Mother-Father-God, I turn to you now knowing your are the only Power and Presence there is. All Good, all knowing, all powerful. You have existed always and will exist into eternity. Right now, I acknowledge that all people have their origin in You. A spark of the Divine rests at the inner-most part of their souls. There are no exceptions to this. At this moment, I come to you and ask that You guide all those in power here in the United States and in every other country to make decisions that come from Love. Open the hearts of all of mankind that they may see things differently. Guide our leaders to make the hard decisions based on Love and Healing not on hatred or retribution. Guide all people to know that we all come from One Source and that Source is God, or Intelligence, or whatever you wish to call it. Our country of origin, our color, our religion, our sexual preference really does not matter. We are all One in the Divine. Knowing that my words have power, I release them to the Divine Presence I call God. I accept the guidance that is forthcoming for the leaders of all countries of this world. I give thanks knowing that Good is unfolding and is manifesting now. Thank you Mother-Father-God. And so it is!

Please pray with me for the peace that this world has been seeking for so long. May this be the time!

May peace prevail!

Namaste,

Mareda

Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows - It's that kind of day!

As I was sitting out on my deck with my best buddy, Lucky Joe, this song from the 60's by Lesley Gore popped into my mind. Not wanting to ignore this piece of wisdom, I decided to share the song and some photos from this morning with you.

The song: Lesley Gore - Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows

My best buddy:  

Lucky Joe

Photos from my deck:

"This is the day the LORD has made; 

We will rejoice and be glad in it."

Psalm 118:24

Namaste,

Mareda

Life is Good......ALL THE TIME!

As I look at the title I just wrote, I smile. Life is Good. Yes, it is good; however, it is so much easier to see the good when all is going well. When everything is unfolding just as you want it to, ah, so good. When there is enough money in the checking account to meet all financial contracts, ah, so good. When perfect health is your experience, ah, so good. I could go on and on.

The Good can be more challenging when events happen that challenge your peace of mind. When unexpected expenses pop up, thoughts of lack can sneak in the back door of your mind and bring along feelings of fear. A visit to a physician with a result less than ideal may upset the apple cart even more. Where is the good then?

The past 10 days have brought up a lot of what is written in the above paragraph. And I must admit, I've been thrown for a loop as a result. Garage doors, dentists, cars, veterinarians. They have all come into my life for a reason. I'm not sure what that reason is but it has been very thought provoking.

The feelings of lack and limitation that have plagued me for many years of my life want to sneak into my consciousness and take residence again. Not gonna happen! Yes, the expenses have been unbelievable; however, I am working and know that when there is a void, it must be filled. There is definitely a void in my bank account. I'm just wondering how the void will be filled.

The past few months have been months when I have consciously surrendered each day to the Presence of God. For someone like me who prefers being in complete control, this is quite a stretch. Maybe that is the lesson in all the recent experiences and expenses.

Do I really believe (know) that my good is at hand? Do I really believe (know) that as I ask, I receive? This is the time when I must stay focused on Divine Truth. This is the time to spend more time in meditation, affirmative prayer, and mindfulness. Thoughts that negate my good must be eliminated as soon as they crop up. Just like those pesky weeds that pop up in a flower garden, those pesky thoughts must be pulled out and discarded.

My affirmations for today and every day during this challenging time shall be as follows:

I am so happy and grateful right now for the Divine Good that is manifesting in my life. 

I am so happy and grateful right now for the monetary blessings that are already on their way to me.

I am so happy and grateful right now for perfect health and mental clarity. 

I am so happy and grateful right now for the realization that LIFE IS GOOD!

And so it is!

Namaste,

Mareda

Sunday

It is a little after 1 pm on Sunday afternoon and I have accomplished almost nothing. My human "being" nature seems to have overtaken my human "doing" nature today. Will it last? Don't know. I have these messages popping up saying I really "should" be cleaning my windows since the day is perfect for that. There is some scrap wood waiting to be broken into smaller pieces so the trash people can pick it up. (By the way, I am so thankful for regular trash pickups. Makes life so much easier.) And, yet, I really want to take my Kindle or an old-fashioned book and find a nice place under a shade tree and just read and relax. Something from deep inside is telling me to find that shade tree and read to my heart's content.

I have been reading a lot lately in between by doingness.  Thought I would share some of my reads over the last six or so months with you.

"The Accidental Caregiver: How I Met, Loved and Lost Legendary Holocaust Refugee Maria Altmann" by Gregor Collins.  A memoir about his time with Maria. Very good, very heartwarming.

"The Dirty Parts of the Bible" - A Novel by Sam Torode. A fun read about the live and times of a young man during the Great Depression.

"Four Days with Hemingway's Ghost" by Tom Winton. As I read this I could actually see this happening. Not sure how factual some of it is but very entertaining.

"Last Romanov" by Dora Levy Mossanen. A story about the Romanov family during Imperial Russia. Loved this book.

"The Parrot Talks in Chocolate" by Everett Peacock. A fun read.

"Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey into the Afterlife" by Eben Alexander III M.D. A very interesting read. It has already been debunked but if you want to read about that you have to pay to get to the article. Say what????

"Risking Everything: Coming Out in Coffee Land" by Elizabeth Worley. A story about a woman's search for her self and the discoveries she makes. 

"Sky of Red Poppies" by Zohreh Ghahremani. A look at life through the eyes of a young girl in Iran. Insightful and disturbing. 

"The Wander Year: One Couple's Journey Around the World" by Mike McIntyre. A chronicle of one couple's journey, the highs and the lows. 

and the last book I just finished

"Zealot: The Life and Times of Jesus of Nazareth" by Reza Aslan. The author began his life as a Muslim, became a born-again Christian, discarded this faith but continued his search in religious studies as an inquisitive scholar. It provides no concrete proof of anything but I found it to be very insightful as to the whys and wherefores of the life of Jesus. Aslan draws on the research of many others to present a very intelligently written book about Jesus, his life and the times in which he was living.

Well, the decision has been made. 

Reading is the #1 item on my to-do list

for this Sunday. 

Now I just have to find that perfect spot. 

                                                              

Namaste,

Mareda

Angels Among Us

The link to this news items says it all.

An angel? A priest? You decide.

I know what I believe. What about you?

Namaste,

Mareda

Wisdom

Words of Wisdom

and some of those people are:

There are others walking their talk every day. 

As Ghandi has been credited with saying:

"Be the change you wish to see in the world."

Blessings and love today and always,

Namaste,

Mareda