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In light of all the diverse opinions and, unfortunately, confusing happenings, it's often difficult to know what to believe about what you hear. Now is a good time to consider: "What's my intention?" When you hear or read information, with what "ears" are you listening, and interpreting? Are you interpreting what your observe with your intellectual understanding only, which is based on your judgments and biases, or are you using the "ears" of your heart to take in the information and assist you with learning how to discern what is true for you?
The events in the world have provided all of us the opportunity to feel many emotions, it might be helpful to pause and consider, "What is my intention." Do you wish to see a particular way of thinking, speaking and being that is based on how you were taught life "should" be, or do you move into your heart and ask if it's time to learn more about the information? Is it an opportunity to have more compassion and understanding for others in order to feel safe, loved and peaceful? Throughout your entire life, you are given the opportunity to learn something new and perhaps try it out. It is your emotions that trigger such times of expansion. When you hear something that elicits an emotion within, if you want to truly experience life, follow those feelings to the point of understanding what's been stirred within your heart. To keep life simple and uncomplicated, try taking a "pause" and then ask your heart for guidance. It is at that point the "ears" of your heart will listen to what brought those emotions and feelings and assist you with discerning what you are to do with what you have heard or read about. The dictionary states intention as a, "Clearly formulated or a planned aim." To have a solid intention, or aim for life, requires a smooth flowing relationship between your intellectual head, and your compassionate and loving heart. The emotions are the vehicle that help you move through what you truly intend for your life. Whether it's choosing a partner, career, friendship, or any endeavor that stirs your emotions, chances are you'll grow in wisdom, knowledge and peacefulness within if you'll first have a clear intention that is chosen by your Head AND your Heart! The most powerful gift you can have is a solid, trusting relationship within yourself. That is where you discern answers to a full spectrum of emotions from exciting and curious, to confusing and perplexing "happenings" that stirs up everything you may have known to be true. The next time an opportunity and/or decision is put in front of you, ask ,"What's my intention?" Then turn on both sets of "ears," the ones in your Head and the ones in your Heart!
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It was brought to my attention the origins of the expression, "dog days," came from the sky nation! According to the Farmer's Almanac, the "Dog Star," Sirius, is the brightest star in our sky, and during the "dog days of summer," the sun occupies the same region of the sky as Sirius. Actually, Sirius rises and sets with the sun during these days. Because Sirius is so bright, the ancient Romans believed it gave off additional heat. So they referred to this period, July 3 to August 11 (20 days before and 20 days after the alignment of Sirius with the sun) as the "days of the dog star."
While it may, indeed, be the hottest stretch of summer, it's not because Sirius radiates the heat; it's simply a result of the Earth's tilt that time of year that causes the sun's rays to shine down on us at a more direct angle, and for a longer period of time throughout the day. Now, how about that! What it indicates to me is the intellect of nature, far exceeds human's understanding or rationale, indicating if we truly want to understand the many unanswered questions of life, the most "enlightening" thing we can do is take a walk in nature, ask the unrelenting questions in our head and then pay attention! It might be a squirrel, rabbit, red-tail hawk or any number of woodland creatures that become the carriers of the wisdom we seek. Let's use these "dog days of summer" to slow down and listen; we just might find out something we didn't know, we didn't know! This month's Wisdom Circle will be held Wednesday, June 16 at 6:30 p.m. We're "bumping it up" a day to utilize the cooler evening that will support the opening of the ceremonial fire ring. Over the winter twigs, branches, pine cones and other debris that was dropped from the trees (Standing Ones) are gathered; these gifts are then used throughout the summer and fall ceremonial fires. It is through the sharing of laughter and stories of family and friends that gather around the fire that we grow in Wisdom and gain a deeper appreciation for life and love.
With the fire, we are given the opportunity to burn away old habits and beliefs that are ready to be shed from our life. We do this with much love and gratitude for what those old ways offered and taught us as we moved through our life experiences. Just as we weed through our closets, clean our garages and donate the things we no longer need, so we sort through the old ways of being and thinking that have shifted and changed in our lives. These are but a few of the "giveaways" we offer the fire in exchange for the Wisdom that returns and becomes part of the evolution of our souls! Bring something to sit on, a blanket for your lap, some twigs, pine cones, or other debris from the Standing Ones in your yard and join us as we listen to the ever-evolving wisdom of others that bring their open hearts to this gathering. As always, if you have questions, use the contact page. We look forward to sitting around our first fire with whomever shows up to share a bit of wisdom and a whole lot of heart! (Also, masks, gloves and hand sanitizer are on hand!) Racing around the track at 220+mph? Probably not; however, many of you will be watching the “Greatest Spectacle in Racing” from the comfort of your homes. And, this year your friends may be sitting beside you. What a difference a year makes!
This past year has offered all of us the opportunity to take a closer look at how we live our lives, what brings us joy, and all to often, what serves as a distractor in our lives. This pandemic has opened our hearts to what’s really important; and things are not at the top of that lists. It’s the human interactions; the routine events, customs and habits that help us find a sense of security and certainty to life. We can always replace “things;” they are mere comforts and/or conveniences in our lives. Human relations are more difficult to replace or substitute. Oh, sure, we can move on in life if someone has left our live; however, relationships require time to heal from in order to move forward. And that is not an easy task. Doable? Yes, but not without a great deal of deep sorrow within our heart and a whole lot of healing. The things we get used to and lose in our lives pale to the loss of a relationship. This year we have all felt the discomfort and painful experience of having our lives turned upside down, and yet, most of us have adjusted. That said, as our lives have returned to some sense of normalcy, now might be a great time to reprioritize the things and people that really matter. This Memorial Day might be a perfect time to consider those that gave their all so we might have the many freedom we often overlook. This year has offered most of us the opportunity to notice those freedoms and gratefully reclaim what might have taken for granted. Racing around the track of life at 220+mph? Not this past year! Now is the perfect time to reassess how you spend your time, money and, most importantly, your heart. Let this Memorial Day be a reminder of the importance of sharing your heart with those you love, and loving the human interactions, routine events, customs and habits that enrich your life. It’s a great time to eliminate those distractors that keep you from what is truly important and leave the 220+mph to the professionals! . . . Bring May Flowers" is a common phrase most people are familiar with. Did you know it originated in the United Kingdom or Ireland? And that it serves as a reminder that even the most unpleasant things can bring about very enjoyable experiences? It is also a lesson in patience and holding an optimistic attitude while moving through unpleasant events in life. Such simple and familiar phrases are often spoken without considering where and why it was first coined.
The sound of a morning shower brought an early wake-up call that kicked my heart in gear. There is something very serene and gentle about a rain shower that seems to soothe my soul. Thunderstorms are another story and yet they, too, offer us the opportunity to ponder such acts of nature and consider how our heart feels during such events. For me, thunderstorms jolt loose stuck emotions that are ready to be addressed and moved through. In either cases, nature is offering us the opportunity to feel on a very deep level. This morning the sounds of nature brought my attention to the emotions of certain situations that I had put on the "back burner." I'm grateful to be examining these feelings with the gentleness of the morning shower, rather than the fury of a thunderstorm. And with these rains, everything is coming alive! That stirs my heart and spurs me on to focus on what is springing forth after the long winter months of silence. I'm ready for movement, play, gathering with those I love and accepting that it may look different than it was before Covid. And that's ok too! I am one of the fortunate ones that did not lose a loved one to this pandemic, how can I complain about having to modify activities, wear a mask or take a vaccine when multitudes have an empty space in their hearts from their losses. As the rain falls in your neighborhood, consider counting your blessings, it just might bring more love and joy along with the flowers in May and color your world with beauty!
Warmth, opportunities, greening of the landscape and the emergence of rich colors are but a few of the gifts of spring. Astrologically, the New Year begins with the Spring Equinox on March 20, thusly we have yet another opportunity to set intentions for 2021. This is a time the sun moves North across the celestial equator, and night and day are of equal length. After the darkness of winter diminishes and light increases we may feel a building of imaginative and creative energy. We live in a dense, physical world where shadows exist, while carrying the radiant light of the sun in our souls. It is that balance point that helps us walk the path we chose with clear intention and purpose. Spring is a time to celebrate the freshness of life and allow the energy of birth and newness to assist us with bringing forth the dreams our heart birthed during the stillness of winter. What awareness did you heart bring to your attention? Call to nature to help you know how to bring those dreams forth. Step outside and observe how the plants emerge from Earth Mother and consider designating a specific day each week to check its growth. Now might be a time to set a regular walking routine to help broaden your scope of observation. Consider it a walking meditation in order to make this a time of noticing, not thinking! Connecting with our senses and consciously choosing to notice our surroundings helps shift our focus to one of curiosity and wonder. It offers us a distraction that is actually healthy and helps us grow in all areas of our life. Keep in mind, those little sprouts that emerge from the Earth also benefit from our attention. Who does not grow stronger when they are given attention and feel seen? The natural world is an extension of us as we are an extension of it. We’re all interconnected . . . humans and nonhumans. This is where the Lakota phrase, “Aho, Mitayuke Oyasin “fits”, it means, “I acknowledge, All My Relations! “When you see a new trail, or a footprint you do not know, follow it to the point of knowing, - Uncheehah, The Grandmother of Ohiyea The 13 Clan Mothers: The Full Moon on March 28 brings in the energy of, Looks Far Woman. She heralds in a time to “See the Truth” in all colors. How timely is that? Bear with me as I recall the first song I learned as a child, Feel free to let your heart sing-a-long: “Jesus Loves the Little Children, all the children of the world. Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in his sight, Jesus loves the Little children of the world!” This Clan Mother offers us a time to travel beyond this physical dimension and take a look at the “Crack between the universe,” We can only do that when our heart is open and willing to see things beyond our limited physical existence. She teaches us how pain is a teacher that offers many blessings and gifts. Click on the tab, 13 Original Clan Mothers on our webpage and read about this beautiful teacher. Rather than rely on what others say is Truth, buy the book and each Full Moon read the corresponding Clan Mother. I promise you will glean an understanding of your personal Truth. Your heart and everything around you will change! ***Check out the other offerings and information on our website while you are there. We would love to hear any stories or words you would like to share. And, remember to sign up for the newsletter and blog in order to receive them directly in your email! “The natural order of life springs forth before the divine whispers of love are even heard.” The old woman, Head to Heart Talks: Rediscovering Your Authentic Self. “When the power of Love overcomes the Love of power, the world will know peace,” Jimmy Hendrix Our Deepening into Wisdom circle is cancelled for Thursday, February 18 due to the weather. We will resume next month, Thursday, March 18.
If you are interested in learning more about the story of your ancestors, a different culture, or the origin of a topic you may have always been curious about join us next month. As was mentioned in our blog, "The Light," if we are to understand some of the perplexities our country currently faces we must understand the underlying theme or history of the topic or situation. That is, what happened that created the attitude, judgment or belief that has brought us to our current situation? Participants are the key to this circle. The topics or points of interest to explore will be chosen by those in attendance. We hope you will join us and grow in wisdom along with other like minded people, Thursday, March 18, 6:30-8:00 p.m. Until then, stay warm, stay safe and enjoy the last month of winter! As the snow continues to fall and white blankets the land around my home, my heart rejoices! Yep, my prayers have been answered! It has been many years since we have had a really good snow fall in central Indiana and this Hoosier welcomes the sight. Gratefully, the Indiana Department of Public Transportation is top notch and well managed so that roads will be passable and safe for those that have to travel.
From the massive amount of closings, it is apparent the welfare of our residents is paramount over profits and productions. I mention this because it feels important to shed light on the goodness of people . . . and there are so many good ones! With so much focus on the darkness this past year, how about we consider this snow as a white blanket of purity here to replenish the Earth with abundant hope, kindness, and truthfulness. They say whatever you are looking for, you will find. I’m looking for decency, integrity and honesty to be the focus of our world. How about you? Where’s your focus? What are you looking for? The Clan Mother for this month, Wisdom Keeper, offers this description, “Snowflakes are the messengers that carry each person’s dreams and feelings back to Earth.” Just as there are no two snowflakes alike, so each of us carry our own unique dreams and feelings. Those qualities we wish to see more of in the world. How about we hold onto those words and consider what 2021 will offer once warmth thaws the Earth and allows those dreams to burst forth with spring. What dreams and feelings of yours are carried within the snowflakes that blanket your yard? What do you hope to see spring forth when warmth returns to Earth? In the meantime, really look at the beauty and sparkle of the snow that blankets the Earth and remember the infamous words of Jimmy Hendrix, “When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace! The statement above is the fifth habit in Stephen Covey’s book, “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.” I read this book back in the 80’s and the wisdom of those words became forever embedded into my heart. These powerful seven words, if implemented into your life can change the course of events in the lives around you as well as yours.
I am convinced if we listen more and talk less we will become more effective in every area of our life. Today everyone has an opinion and few actually listen. They may be silent while you speak, however, chances are what they are doing is creating their response to what you are saying. Actually listening indicates you are truly “seeking to understand.” I heard a young man speak yesterday about how the widening gap between cultures could be greatly narrowed if we simply took the time to “know the history of a different culture than our own.” What a profound idea! Consider both of these statements. Whether the differences pertain to gender, ethnicity, socio-economic levels, age, education, spiritual beliefs, or a host of other differences, these two simple yet powerful statements could open the door to understanding and healing. It all begins within! How much do you know about your family history? And, how far back can you trace your lineage? When was the last time you spoke to your parents or grandparents about what life was like for them when they grew up? There are tons of wonderfully powerful and informative books on every topic imaginable, perhaps a book has been “calling to you” that could shed light on your family lineage, another culture’s history, or some topics you would like to know more about. Maybe there’s a novel you picked up because you liked the title and it’s still sitting on your shelf, patiently waiting. My shelf currently has several such books! With that in mind, the idea was birthed to create a book discussion group to satisfy two needs: First, have a reason to pull one of the books off my shelf, and secondly, to connect with other people with similar passions for learning, understanding and/or simply being entertained. We are offering a monthly Book Review via Zoom the second Tuesday of each month. Our first session is Tuesday, February 9 from 6:30-7:30p.m. If you would like to participate, email me: vkwspirit@gmail.com by Monday, February 8. A zoom meeting will be scheduled and the link will be sent to whoever shows an interest. Since this is short notice, if you are unable to attend this month, be assured you are welcome to other monthly Book Reviews. Those dates are listed on the Events link on our website: www.headtothearttalks.com Let’s get reading! Thursday, Jan 28 is the first Full Moon in 2021. It is referred to as the Wolf Moon and will offer a time to take center stage of your life. According to astrologist, this moon is in Leo and if you know much about Leo's they enjoy the position; in fact, they do their best when everyone notices their gifts! Whatever you are creating or re-inventing within yourself, this Full Moon will offer you the opportunity to release, reclaim and reinvent an aspect of yourself that beckons to be noticed. Perhaps it is time to get in touch with someone you have considered joining a relationship with, be it personal or professional.
Let your heart be your advisor and use the powerful energy of the Wolf Moon to "howl" in and proclaim something that is ready to be brought to the light of Grandmother Moon's glorious face. Then watch the universe bring to you, precisely what you want and need to be successful with your new endeavor! Then be prepared to receive the gifts brought with the New Moon February 11. It is true, the whole universe waits to be of assistance to all the inhabitants on Earth Mother. Claim yours by being willing to give your best to any endeavor you choose to bring forth. Leave a note or email me if you'd like participants of this Lodge to support you through silent prayer or a full blown celebration. Despite the distance or the pandemic, such celebrations can be shared within the sacred spaces of our homes. From my heart to yours, Vicky |
Vicky Kelm WilliamsI find people absolutely fascinating! Archives
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