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As nature unfolds her beauty, I am reminded of the rich abundance available to each and every one of us. Life offers a plethora of opportunities to choose and create the life of our dreams. Whatever we truly desire can and will come in fruition. Sometimes those statements seem too grandiose, too unachievable, too distant. Whatever word fits one's current life situation, those words are true. Those times when nothing seems to line-up or is taking too long, are the times when we need to really go within . . . to our heart. All too often the voices in our head run at warp speed out of fear and doubt. Of course, we have financial obligations to live in this world, and with layoffs, competition with other job seekers, and other extenuating circumstances, our head is doing it's job! Perhaps the loss of a relationship, death of a loved one or another major disappointment was the culprit for the pain we feel. Our beautiful mind's job is to figure things out, strategize, search for options, and the list goes on. While it is doing it's job, it also can become a judge that reminds us of all the things we "should've/could've" done or we would not be in the current situation. The Truth is, life brings challenges, circumstances often beyond our control, whichever the case, chances are your heart is hurting. Those are the times when growth and change is just on the other side of what we are confronting. Indeed, it is very difficult to summons up the courage to find the strength to set aside time each day to become clear on what we want when our heart heals. We live at a time when support, guidance, and information is rampant, and yet, we often feel very alone. So, how do we heal? If there is one thing I know for certain, "Thoughts become things," one of the first places to begin is to examine those ruminating thoughts. Begin from a place of being the observer and you will quickly discover what needs attention and carefully examined. Doing that takes a great deal of time and commitment. It takes reflecting with gentle eyes on your prior experiences and examining what you learned. Then with tenderness, turn towards your heart and the healing will begin. Every person alive has met such life-changing times in their life, and if we will reach out to a group, attend a retreat, join a yoga or other healing modality, we will begin to feed our spiritual self. If we are faithful to our true, authentic self, our tears will become less and hope will return. We live in a fast pace world and yet when life circumstances happen, it takes time! It does, however, happen with each step we take. And, if we "never give up," we can begin to feed hope, faith and a knowing there is a divine source that is on our side. Some food for thought: Check out our Resource tab, there are some remarkable gatherings by impeccable human beings that offer diverse ways to identify and enrich your heart while feeding your beautiful mind! Check out our Events tab for offerings here at Dancing Flame Medicine Lodge as well. Lastly, I recently became certified as an "infinite Possibilities" Trainer. What a profound way to truly become aware of who you truly are when unencumbered by old stories and shifting your thoughts. We will be offering that course sometime this summer. Periodically check our Events page for other opportunities as well. Until then, enjoy the colorful display of spring growth. Remember, they too, had to wait until the perfect time to come into their fullness! From my heart to all you brave warriors heart's, Vicky 
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According to the dictionary, blossom is defined as: The state of bearing flowers . . . plants in blossom; a peak period or stage of development .. . . men and women still in the blossom of life. As we begin this amazing month of May, indeed, in the Indiana the focus is on the Indy 500. In fact, the countdown began in January! For the rest of the country, May is a time to honor and recognize our "mothers," whether biological, adopted, step or God mother, or simply through our heart connections. It is a moment in time to recognize those women who nurtured us throughout life. Perhaps her ways were not "warm and fuzzy," and instead were aloof or demanding or something in between. Chances are they fluctuated between those two polarities. What matters is; they cared for you the best they knew how. May is also, Mental Health Awareness month, which was established in 1949, to raise awareness to mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote access to treatment. Thank goodness, after 76 years, most of our country is in a place of compassion for those moving through difficult situations. And, who of us have not? If we are honest, most of us have had those heart-wrenching, profound traumas that life can often put in front of us. If you would like to understand the four core areas of life that need to be in balance, check out the events page for the next opportunity to deepen into each of those areas; "Using the Mandala to Find your True North." The word Mandala is sanskrit for circle. Nearly every culture recognizes that life is moved in a path that begins in the East and moves around the directions until it begins another round on the Sacred Wheel of Life in the East. If you are curious how this may assist you with walking your life, read a bit more on the Community Events link. You just may find that life offers Infinite Possibilities when you become aware of you thoughts, words and actions. Our next, Deepening into Wisdom circle is Thursday, May 15, 6:30-8p.m. We will be gleaning some truths from those in attendance, and with the assistance of the May Clan Mother, "Listening Woman," about how to sharpen our listening skills. All too often we're "talking heads," (not the band!) when what our heart wishes to share or understand requires the "ears of our hearts" to be fully engaged. Depending on the weather, we will be sitting around a fire and enjoying the rich blossoms of May, as our hearts begin opening a bit more to the gifts of community. It's time to take flight!   Here's your opportunity! My dear friend Judith is offering this class. She carries the gift of communicating with animals and has assisted many owners with developing this skill. Please contact her directly with any questions, for more information or to sign up.
Spring entered with a roar, a sure sign there's going to a bounty of rich colors beginning in May. With the gift of rain gardens will be rich and receptive to the plantings gardeners sow. Such a marvelous time of year as everything comes alive. Buds are inching their way to the surface as shrubs and trees come alive after a long winter. My heart feels a sense of hope, promise and excitement for the bounty of beauty. There is assurance that whatever is happening in our world that brings a sense of concern, nature offers evidence that life will continue to reach for the heavens. It is, "evidence of things unseen," that reminds us something greater will have the final "say." Our task is to stay present, grateful and hold a place of calm knowing that it is our thoughts that contribute to the energy around us. Personally, I enjoy beginning this month with "April Fool's day." What a playful way to move into the joy of simple tricks that can alter the heaviness of energy that seeks to disrupt our lives.
Easter is April 20, another opportunity to reverently and playfully honor the sacredness of life. Beginning with Passover, Palm Sunday, and Good Friday, those of the Christian faith will offer a picture of how something truly disrespectful and dishonoring is transformed into an opportunity to "rise above" the darkness and witness the victory that comes with the light of Truth, goodness and sacredness. Colorful eggs are hidden for the children to feel the excitement of finding them and filling their baskets. Perhaps this Easter the "big people" can take a few moments to feel that sense of newness, innocence and be assured, that something really beautiful is being birthed. Our task is to determine how we can contribute to that beauty . . . fear or inner knowing that as Martin Luther King said, "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that." It is your choice. What will you fill your basket with this Easter? How about choosing to be have the strength and leadership of a Lion, and use a strong, honest roar to express what your heart has to say? My teacher used to say, "Use smooth, round words, not sharp pointy ones." Here's to an abundance of colorful eggs waiting in your basket to be shared! From my Heart to yours, Vicky The Deepening into Wisdom Circle will be held, Thursday, April 17, 6:30 p.m-8 p.m. Depending on the weather, we will gather around a fire and share some "smooth round words," about our gratitude for this richly colorful and beautiful time of year when we can lay down what no longer works, and rise to the abundance of opportunities in front of us! The Clan Mother, "Looks Far Woman" will offer us some dream time to discover with lies within the basket of eggs we gather. Read more about her on the Clan Mother link on our website. "For it is only with our heart, one can clearly see, what is important is invisible to the eyes." The Little Prince It's March madness time, that means excitement fills the air. For sports enthusiast the air is filled with the anticipation of predictions, wagers, and the friendly challenges of who may win the office pool. The weather has certainly won the betting lottery with several 70 degree days. What's the saying, "In like a lamb, out like a lion," it will be interesting to observe just how loud the lion will roar over the next couple of weeks.
Besides the crazy "spring forward" of time, this month has offered an amazingly clear night for the full Lunar Eclipse. Those who observed that event were not disappointed . . . that is until mid afternoon when a nap was needed. This week the Spring equinox, Thursday, March 20 officially heralds in the astrological new year. With all the excitement March Madness brings, the warmth and planting of our dreams officially begins. If you have not yet made a Vision Board for this year, there's still time to make that happen. Simply retrieve a couple of magazines, crayons, paints, some scissors and glue and a piece of poster board (big or small.) After asking your heart what it wants to see happen in 2025, take a few deep breaths and have had it. Try not to "think" so much about it, just let your hands and heart do the work. The Deepening into Wisdom circle is Thursday, March 20, 6:30-8 p.m. you might consider bringing your Vision Board with you and share what your hands and heart created. What a beautiful way to confirm your intentions, goals and dreams for this year. Having others bear witness to your heart's wishes helps confirms your commitment to them. Weather permitting, let's "officially" welcome the beauty and richness of Spring this Thursday around a fire. Bring a blanket to sit on, your visions for 2025 and an open heart as we "officially" Welcome Spring! Hope to see many of you there! Vicky It is almost time to step out of winter’s cave and into the newness of spring! Moving from one season to another requires many changes which brings with it a host of emotions. For many, it is an opportunity to shake off old habits and routines and embrace a sense of newness. Much can be said about having a routine and the comfort that comes with knowing what to expect. And yet, the sameness often creates a bit of boredom. Everyone needs a sense of adventure, and that is best met by having a sense of direction, a purpose for what you are doing. In other words, to know where you are going, and what you hope to accomplish. Or, as Stephen Covey states, in his best selling book, The Seven Habits of Highly Successful people, "Begin with the end in mind."
I recently heard someone speak about life being like a GPS. Only two things are required: your starting place and a destination point; the GPS calculates the simplest, most efficient way to get there. Sounds simple, and yet when the verbal instructions are given, a sense of resistance or frustration may be felt. The hesitation within is simply a result of being in unfamiliar territory. Relying on the unknown can be uncomfortable, and yet, after discovering the reliability of the GPS to get us to our destination, it becomes a very helpful, stress-free device. In much the same manner, learning the ancient teachings of the seven sacred directions, life does become more manageable, more in balance. And yet, it may seem a bit "foreign" at first. That is because the indigenous peoples of the world were short on words and options. They were, however, resourceful and lived a simple, yet rich life. Nearly every early culture used nature as an ally, and with the assistance of the rhythm and gifts from these sacred ways, life was co-created for all the inhabitants on earth. If you would like to explore how to use those ways to prepare for emerging from winter’s cave and stepping into the newness spring heralds in, consider signing up for the “Using the Mandala as a Compass” retreat. The teachings are simple, and will offer participants the opportunity to open a door to new, yet ancient, way of fully living with all inhabitants of this beautiful, amazing earth. Read a bit more about this offering and a few comments by former participants on the Community Events link: www.headtothearttalks.com Space is limited, sign up by Wednesday, March 5. A confirmation with further information will be sent to acknowledge your participation. It is right around the corner: Saturday, March 8, 1-4p.m. sit with your heart and head, breathe, and the answer will be clear! Until then, yawn, stretch and step into the unfolding beauty of spring! "The season of Spring heralds in a time of growth; to realize the dreams created in Winter." The old woman, Book One, The Season of Spring, Head to Heart Talks: Rediscovering Your Authentic Self. Well, it appears Groundhog Phil was spot on; six more weeks of winter. Actually, we only have another four, since it's been two weeks since he made his prediction. It has been very good for me, I have a boat load of stuff to donate! Decluttering certainly does provide a tangible way of clearing all kinds of things one does not need while offering something someone else has been looking for, or needs. A nice balance of giving and receiving which opens the door to the one giving and the one receiving. . . just something to consider.
In lieu of the frigid temps and prediction of more forms of precipitation this week, The "Deepening into Wisdom" circle is canceled for this month. Check out our Community Events page and read about the "Using the Mandala" retreat which is right around the corner. It will be a lovely time to meet new people and learn more about how to create a balanced life. What a wonderful way to utilize the energy of the Spring Equinox and prepare to put your dreams into the richness of another walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life. If this sounds like something you are interested in, go to our contact link and send a note to Vicky. More information will be provided in order to help you prepare for this event. In the meantime, chalk one up for Phil and enjoy the last few weeks in your cave. You might want to checkout your closets, drawers, and storage places to see what might be ready to find a new home with someone looking for that precise item! From my heart to yours, Vicky "There are places in the Heart only silence can describe." The old woman Head to Heart Talks, book one, from the story, "Giving and Receiving." Sunday, February 2, 2025 Punxsutawney Phil will let us know when spring will be upon us. According to the Punxsutawney Club, overall his accuracy rate is 39% correct, and that's going back to his first recorded prediction in 1887. If he sees his shadow there's six more weeks of winter, if he doesn't, it simply means spring is on the way. Here's another fun fact. The Punxsutawney Club says Phil is 138 years old. According to the club, Phil has never had children until just recently when Phil and Phyllis gave birth to two healthy baby groundhogs. The article did not mention the age of Phyllis, I can only surmise she is a "younger woman!" Good for Phil! They claim his longevity has come from "drinking the 'elixir' of life.'" Hmm, I suppose Phyllis is part of that "elixir?" I googled and found out Ramjit Raghav is considered the world's oldest father, having fathered children at the ages of 94 and 96 . . . another hmm, perhaps he drank from the same ''elixir' of life as Phil?
February is known as the month of Love, primarily due to Valentine's day; however, if we take a closer look at astronomy, the science behind the seasons, it seems natural the long nights of winter that began late December with the Winter Solstice, would bring a deeper sense of love as it nears its conclusion with the onset of the Spring Equinox March 20th. In actuality, December and February are the two months, according to mental health statistics, that depression is most prevalent. It makes sense since both months celebrate a closeness to those we love more than any other months of the year. Of course, the long dark nights and overall gray days also contribute to a sense of low energy. That is, unless one is using those winter months to dream new ventures, ideas, and plans to put in action with spring. So, what and how can February 2 influence our lives? Well, it seems fitting that if Phil does see his shadow it can provide a sense of hope; a stirring of anticipation that warmth, growth, movement is right around the corner. Each person determines their special "elixir." Much like the popular saying, "Life is a journey, not a destination," love is very much the same. Throughout our life we will experience one form or another of what we feel is love. Be it a pet, child, partner, job, a piece of art, favorite vacation place, a memory, or another passion, there are a variety of ways to warm one's heart. The bottom line is, each person determines what feels like love. With all those selections from which to choose, the one true source of permanent love is YOU. For some reason, it is often the last place we look. We search outside ourselves when all we need is within. Sounds simple, yet is one the most difficult and often scary places to look. With all that said, on February 2, are you ready to step out of winter's cave and determine what you need to make ready for planting your dreams with spring, or do you need six more weeks to dream a bit more? There is no "right or wrong" choice, there's simply what you choose. Your walk will astronomically begin with the Spring Solstice March 20, when Earth Mother offers the richness of her soil as a place to plant your dreams. We know Phil will peek his head, to determine if the "elixir of life" is to be partaken at that moment, or if he needs six more weeks of dreaming; what will you do? Finally, on February 14 will you purchase a small gift, box of chocolates, or have a quiet dinner at home? If you choose the later, make sure to set two plates, one for you, and one for a special friend. . .Yourself! One dish can be for the main meal, the other for a special dessert. It is all in what and how you choose to drink from what you determine to be the "elixir of life." Happenings: The Full Moon is February 12, it's considered the "Snow" moon. What a great time of surrender any old habits, old wounds, perhaps a difficult relationship. Utilized the Divine feminine within to assist you with balancing any emotional concerns that needs attended. And, those may be very good one that simply need acknowledged. The Deepening into Wisdom circle will be held on Thursday, February 20 from 6:30-8 p.m. We will be sharing stories that have enriched our lives and taught us the most. Bring an open heart, blanket for your lap and a story from your heart. A gifting bowl is present for those wishing to show gratitude for the sacred place Dancing Flame Medicine Lodge provides. You just may find this monthly gathering may be a necessary ingredient in your "elixir of Life!" Check our events page for more information and forthcoming retreats. "Being human is not easy; however, it is fascinating!" The old woman, from the chapter: "Weaver of Webs," Book two, Head to Heart Talks: Walking a Sacred Path From my heart to yours, Vicky Oh what a beautiful beginning to a New Year! As we are snuggled into the safety and comforts of our Caves, what a warm experience to look outside and see the abundant covering of the gifts from above. Of course, this is from my perspective; however, I am certain many others share similar feelings. The past few winters snow has detoured Indiana and only offered a scant offering of the white, fluffy beauty. There is an old teaching that snow carries the prayers from those on earth; perhaps more people are waking up to Earth Mother's changes. Or, perhaps humans have returned to a place of asking for assistance from a greater source. Whatever the reason, it is lovely to know we humans are realizing we do not have all the answers or solutions, and that something outside ourselves just may offer assistance.
Looking out from the warmth of our caves (homes), what a winter wonderland presents the unblemished truth, that clarity, simplicity and strength lies right in front of us. Despite any and all of the current situation in our lives, our communities, our country and our world, there is always the gifts from Nature to cleanse, purify and guide that stands with us. Those that walked before us knew the importance of being in right relations with "All our Relations." It may be time to consider those words; the truth in front of each of us is whether to accept or ignore those teachings. From my humble perspective, the snow offers a reminder that, the Warmth of Snow, and the presence of our winter's cave, provides an opportunity to reprioritize what is important and know for certain, what we can dream will come to fruition. It may not come this year; however, trust if we do our part, it will manifest. How about looking through the window of your cave and noticing the abundance of snow through the eyes of a child. Maybe it time to remember the youthful times of wonder; pull the sled from the rafters in the garage, build a snowman (or woman) and simply be in the moment. Just as important, look through the lens of the old teaching above and see the abundance of dreams and prayers of so many. Remember, what you do for yourself, you do for others. You just may find your neighbors doing the same. Taking that action may just bring a warmth to your heart! Check out our website, and if you have any questions, comments, or request, please use the contact link. We welcome your words and insights, or any gifts or teachings you would like to offer. We offer the Deepening into Wisdom circle as a place to share those gifts. Our first wisdom circle is Thursday, January 16, 6:30-8p. Everyone is welcome to check us out. There a gifting bowl for those wanting to show gratitude for the spirit that guides our gatherings. Read more on the Events link. Until later, here's to the Warmth of Snow and your Heart! Vicky "Looks like diamonds! Like millions and millions of Sparkling jewels!" The old woman, "Unblemished Snow," Book One: Head to Heart Talks: Rediscovering your authentic self." I woke this morning clearly aware I was snuggly settled into my personal cave. It felt safe, intimately my space and a sense of eagerness filled my heart. It felt comforting to know for the next few months time would be available to go into what is true for me, a place of rest, creating and peaceful time of year. Of course, this morning is especially special since the small ceramic Christmas tree of my mother's, is lit with colorful butterflies. The first thing I heard was, send a blog! I must admit, my desire to blog often wavers, with winter, the desire to create abounds. Here is what came through:
We have officially walked through the threshold of dreaming and entered "Into the Cave," heralded in with the winter solstice. In the North we have the opportunity to pause, reflect and consider what we wish to bring forth with the onset of spring. The quiet time and darkness of winter offers us an opportunity to slow down, go within, and consider what we wish to move towards, deepen into, or bring forth on our sacred walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life. Consider those words carefully, "Sacred Walk around the Medicine Wheel of Life." What, of anything, does that mean to you? Perhaps the phrase, "Walking a Sacred Path," feels more familiar or comfortable to you. As it is with words, the meaning has various interpretations all dependent upon one's personal understanding based on cultural beliefs, traditions and social norms. For this blog, what is important is to pause and consider. During the course of a day many words are spoken, read, listened to, and yet, it is the listeners personal interpretation that attaches meaning to the words. How you use your time each winter is probably pretty routine. This winter, consider what the word "sacred" means to you, then reflect on ways that word fits your life, both during the holidays, special times of the year, and in your day to day life. For many, this time of year is about setting goals, both personally and professionally for the new year. This winter, consider including your understanding of "sacred" into those intentions (goals) for 2025. My hunch is, there will be a different perspective with creating those intentions (goals) simply by adding the word "sacred" into the mix. From my heart to yours, Vicky "When we are grateful, we free our hearts to create new dreams and visions." The old woman, "Let's Do This," Book two: Head to Heart Talks: Walking a Sacred Path" |
Vicky Kelm WilliamsI find people absolutely fascinating! Archives
May 2025
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