A Little Girl Named Lily

We have all seen and heard stories about children and adults who are experiencing such severe challenges in their human experience that the question comes up as to why. Why did this happen? How could such a terrible thing occur to an infant or toddler? Of course, the biggest question: Why would God let this happen?

I do not claim to have THE answer but I do have a lot of thoughts about this. I've mulled this over in my mind many times in the past but never to the extent as recently. I have a little girl named Lily Grace to thank for this.

Lily Grace, age 4

A couple of my Facebook friends and fellow adoptive parents were always posting about this little girl. For some reason, I did not feel compelled to read about her. However, one day I did read about her and have been hooked ever since.

A little girl from China, orphaned and classified as "terminal" based on so many medical conditions touched my soul. Adopted two years ago, she has had four open heart surgeries during this time span and now has received a gift that surpasses all others...a new heart. And we (I) ask why. 

Some schools of thought suggest that before a soul comes into the human experience, they choose the "lesson" they are to learn in this Earth School. Makes sense to me because there is no way I could believe a loving God would choose this for anyone. Maybe Lily knew she had a purpose bigger than being a cute toddler. Maybe she knew that this health challenge would bring together over 5,000 Facebook friends from all over the world. Maybe she knew that people of all faiths would join in prayer to bring love and healing to her. Maybe, just maybe, her journey is on a fast-track to bring healing to this world in ways none of us could possible fathom. 

What about the child who is no longer having a human experience? What about the family who is grieving the loss of their child yet generous enough to give a heart to another? Sad. Very sad. Maybe this is part of a much grander scheme than we can imagine. It is said a child shall lead. Maybe these two little ones are leading all the adults who think they know. 

Lily is just one of many children who touch our souls. We read about children every day who surmount all odds and survive challenges that we find difficult to understand. We also read about children who bravely leave this human experience but leave a legacy that shall stand into eternity. 

To all the parents who have a child or children who are experiencing health or emotional challenges, I suggest that maybe you are blessed. No, it isn't easy. No, it isn't fun. But maybe your child has chosen you to give you an experience of divine bliss. Our children get to us by birth or adoption or fostering. And maybe even just being there for the child down the street who needs a loving and supportive adult in their life. 

From this moment on, I shall continue to pray for Lily and the soul who's heart now beats in Lily's chest. I shall also pray for all the children who have chosen (yes, chosen) the difficult road. I shall also pray for those who are traveling with them along this road. 

I leave you with this from Ecclesiastes 3:

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

For those of you who would like to follow along with Lily's journey, there is an open group on Facebook: 

Praying for Lily

Namaste,

Mareda

When will we ever learn?

Once again this world seems to be in a state of upheaval with the threat of war looming over the heads of many nations. When will we learn that what we are doing to stop the violence and hate just doesn't work? We have all heard the definition of insanity as doing the same thing over and over again but expecting a different answer. The answer lies much deeper than what we have tried. It is quite apparent that what we have been doing is not working.

I remember years ago during the Cuban missile crisis when Russian ships were headed to Cuba...just 90 miles from Miami. The fear that encompassed everyone. Those "horrible" Russians were going to start a war. Wow! what a difference a few decades has made for me.

For the last 15 years, I've had the privilege of living with a Russian, my wonderful daughter. I also have the privilege of knowing and considering many Russians some of my dearest friends. Traveling in Russia I discovered that the citizens of that country are just like me. We all want peace, love and happiness.

This truth lies within the hearts of all people, all nationalities, all races, all religions. Peace, love and happiness are that for which we strive. So how can we manage to manifest this on earth?

It is my opinion that we need to let the differences fall to the wayside when we interact with others. Let the color of a persons skin, the clothing they wear, the language they speak fade into oblivion. See the soul inside the person. Soul to soul we are one. There is no separation.

Sometimes, it can be hard. We all meet people who are unhappy, angry, cruel, and more. How do we handle this? I think the following insert that appeared on my Facebook page says it all.

Neale Donald Wash author of the "Conversations with God" books has much to say about this at: http://www.theglobalconversation.com/.

Will things change overnight to bring about peace on earth? No, but change will occur. I intend to do my part by sending healing energy especially to the leaders of the United States, the Russian Federation and the Ukraine. May these powerful countries be an example to the world that change can come through peaceful negotiations. 

Namaste,

Mareda

Turning off the noise

As I continue on my journey of change in this new year, I am discovering how exciting it is. Just saying "yes" has been so illuminating. Doors are appearing and some are opening; others remain closed so I just move on to another door. Sort of reminds me of that game show long ago (at least I don't think it is on anymore) where you had to choose your prize from Door #1, Door #2 or Door #3. What door holds my prize or do they all hold a prize for me? Probably.

I have completed Reiki I and am scheduled for Reiki II this coming Saturday. Wow! the energy is moving. Meditations have been deeper. A white owl showed up in one meditation about 10 days ago with a confirmation of good for me. My dreams are so vivid and real. I've not been moved to interpret them but feel there is meaning or closure or both.

Yesterday, I "love-streamed" a class from Agape Live on From the Center Out: Be Pulled By Your Vision with Michael Bernard Beckwith! Although I've done classes on visioning here in St. Louis and have read his book "Spiritual Liberation" which discusses visioning, this class was so perfect for me right now. Beyond his self-proclaimed "weirdness," he is a very wise and wonderful human being.

I first met the Rev. about 30 or so years ago. He was here for the ordination of Rev. Annie Clark. At that time, he was just beginning his "official" spiritual journey as a minister. Impressed isn't really the word for how I felt after hearing him speak. Not meaning any disrespect to my Baptist friends, I described his message as that of a Baptist minister at a revival but sharing New Thought principles. His journey was beginning and continues to grow. He is spreading a vision of God's Love and Truth.

Getting back to the class, I discovered something beyond that which was being taught. During the class some of my daughter's friends came over and were in our lower level aka basement playing games. Quite loudly I might add. Trying to listen to a class and meditate is rather difficult with an ever-increasing noise level. I found my ear plugs, plugged them in and was transported to Agape in Los Angeles. The experience was such that I felt totally enveloped in the Love that is Agape. The noise from downstairs could not be heard nor could the cars passing by my house. I had tuned out everything but the class. I was totally in the here and now.

This proved to me that in order to thrive spiritually, it is an absolute MUST to tune out the chatter, the noise, the nonsense of negativity and fear. It may not be as easy as plugging in ear plugs but someway, somehow we must find a way to rise above the negative noise in our world.

How can this be done?

Pray,

Meditate,

Turn off the news,

Surround yourself with positive, like-minded people,

Know that the presence of God/Good is everywhere,

and

Be gentle with yourself.

Happy Sunday! By the way, it may be 47 days till the official arrival of SPRING but the birds are singing like it is right around the corner. This morning, a Blue Jay greeted me with his song of praise. Later I saw a Mockingbird singing his song and a bright red Cardinal peered at me from the bare red bud tree in my yard. Of course, maybe they are just singing praise for a new day. Loving it no matter why. 

Namaste,

Mareda

The Gift of Today

I woke up to a blanket of snow. Not a huge amount but enough to create a driver's frenzy on the roads of St. Louis. With the arrival of this most recent snow, I was gifted with an unexpected day off. Tuesdays are usually days when I market the PT clinic where I work; however, the roads were not that safe and a text message said "stay home today." Such a gift!

I have been told that 2014 is a year of change. For me, I welcome this change. After all the years I've been on this planet, I think I finally have discovered what I want to do "when I grow up." It isn't written in granite yet but it sure is getting close. I embarked on a spiritual path quite different from that of my childhood in 1985. The path has been a catalyst for me in so many ways. Yet, I've still been challenged to find that which I am to accomplish in this lifetime. It has become more and more apparent that I no longer belong in an office setting doing administrative work. I've been there and done that. So what is it that I am to do?

I feel quite comfortable at last to say my purpose at this time is to facilitate healing and spiritual growth of those seeking it. So many times, I have had people tell me "do what you love and all your needs will be met." This always resonated as Truth but I was never sure of what it was that I loved. Something has happened within me. Maybe as we spend more years on this planet, wisdom finds its way into our psyche. All I can say for certain today is that I am content and happy.

Affirmation for today:

Just for today, I am happy and grateful to be alive.

I am amazed and in awe of all of the beauty and good in my life. 

In gratitude, I let it be.

Namaste,

Mareda

The White Stuff Has Arrived!

For the first time in quite a few years, the St. Louis area is blanketed with snow....lots of it! Looking out my window, I see the beauty but I also recognize the dangers inherent in it. My plan is to enjoy it's beauty while I stay warm and cozy in my home. Right now, I see some one jogging by. I shall send them warm energy and know that they are staying upright in about 6+ inches of snow.


Traffic is sparse which make me rather happy. Getting stuck is so easy and getting back on the road can be a challenge; however, there are good Samaritans around as can be seen in this photo. People just started appearing and soon this lady was on her way.  My fervent hope is that she made it home safely.

My heart goes out to the homeless men, women and children as well as all the homeless animals. My prayer is that they all find warmth in a shelter and that their challenges shall be overcome this year. Those of us fortunate to have warm homes have a tendency to take this for granted. Days like this make me realize how Good my life is.

This morning, as happens many Sunday mornings, my church service came via the web from Agape Live. Rev. Michael was wonderful as usual. I particularly want to share with all of you his affirmation for the week:

Wild enthusiasm charges every activity of my life!
I am stark raving glad, God, loving and divine!
The financial energy of the universe flows freely through me!
I am a generous and generative being!
The high calling of Christ consciousness resounds in my awareness!
I am a sacred servant of God’s perfect plan!Gratefully I live these words of truth! And so it is!  Amen!

His message was simple. Basically, that we are all expressions of God; that God is everywhere and right where we are. When we pray, we pray with God. When we cry, we cry with God. When we laugh, we laugh with God. And on and on.

My intention this year is to remember that and make it an inherent part of my everyday life especially when a situation may seem otherwise. My affirmation in those times is

God is here; God is expressing as this person; 

God is guiding me right now. It is all Good. 

May this first Sunday of January 2014 be one of much joy and gladness. Stay warm and safe and know that you are Loved and that you are Love. 

Namaste,

Mareda

A Message from the Universe aka God this New Year's Day

On the first day of 2014, I plan on spending much of it in contemplation. What do I really want 2014 to be? How do I want to be? In my heart of hearts, I truly feel this year is one of change for the better. Not that everything will be smooth but that I will be able to smoothly move through the challenges and see the Good. 

Every week day morning, I wake up to a Message from the Universe. I highly recommend this as a way to begin your day. Mike Dooley is a true visionary who began Totally Unique Thoughts (www.tut.com) with his brother and "totally cool" mom. Today, I shall share my message from the Universe with my readers.

Dearest __________, 

 I was about to wish that your every dream come true. That you find yourself surrounded by friends, laughter, and good times. I almost wished that your every cup runneth over financially, romantically, spiritually, and creatively. That good health be your faithful companion, peace your guarded ally, and love your perpetual guide. When suddenly, it dawned on me that as an infinite, powerful, fun-loving gladiator of the Universe, with eternity before you and the power of your thoughts to help shape it... it's you who will be granting wishes this year. 

I'd like peace on earth, please -
    The Universe

Namaste,

Mareda

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