A Poetic Journey Through Life

2011-11-04T18:56:00.001-07:00

Life is so precious

Life is so deeply precious....

Exhileration

2011-10-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

Just ran an invigorating 10 miler this morn... I am mindful what a gift it is to have a body to move! ... I too am mindful of the gift of an incredible autumn this year! Is not life so deeply precious? :)

the precious journey..

2011-08-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

As I come to the blog, I am mindful how long it has been since I have been away.. I am grateful for all the new blog followers, thank you. ... It has been a wonderful summer of travel and time spent with friends and family, most recently a glorious time at the APA convention and time with friends in Washington D.C. ...

I came back invigorated, yet too had a stressful occurence at work today... one that left me in tears, coming to again realize the precious nature of the walk, and how much I hold passion for life, love, and a place of work I genuinely value. As we meet each day, let us remember the precious walk and those we love.

I know not the next time I will stop by, yet when I do stop the beautiful pictures and saying bring peace and warmth to the heart. ... It is as if a prayer in cyberspace.

May you all be well

Kringle

Life's precious journey

2010-09-03T18:43:00.001-07:00

I am grateful to be healing so well and too have been able to do a duathalon since the accident with a dear friend, and have spent many precious moments with those loved.. and too shared moments on the bike trails in the beauty of nature once again. Each step of improvement brings a smile yet I know it will be weeks before I can lift again. Yet I am so happy I wasn't brain injured and I am mindful of how important bike helmets are!

Yesterday I was informed of the suicide of a friend's mother on the same day a visionary in our profession died, just a few weeks after he was informed of the fact he had invasive cancer. In death I am again reminded of how precious life's journey is. I am so deeply grateful for the shared journey with those loved, and for the many precious times shared. Let us all remember to tell those we love, that we love them.

Is not life's path so deeply precious?

Perspectives

2010-08-26T19:02:00.000-07:00

I stop by amidst the beauty of the summer and such gratitude for the precious times shared. I am tender just now as this week I had a difficult bike crash at about 18-20mph. After hitting a bridge that had a 1 inch lip, I flew off, hit the back of my head, and my left side. I'm told without the helmet I could have broken my neck or had a serious head injury. Thankfully no major bone breaks with the exception of a possible chip to the shoulder but I do have a sprained back, neck and several muscle and tendon tears. ... I am sore and feel a bit like I was hit by a bus (smile)... but hold to faith and optimism and am so deeply grateful I wasn't more seriously hurt.

Lets thank God for the precious nature of life!

Summer Beauty

2010-08-04T17:08:00.000-07:00

Oh how long it has been since I stopped by!... The summer is flying by and has afforded many beautiful times with friends and family and too amidst travel.. One of the beauties of being a professor is that I do have some freedom within the summer months. The first years of my faculty work I ignored the concept of a 9 month contract and worked fervently throughout the summer.. though certainly I don't take three months off, I have found that taking a good portion of a month off can be so deeply renewing as can the valued times with those loved.

The first pics are from biking adventures and a favorite camp in the North woods of Minnesota.. then onto the splendor of the Grand Canyon!..

Blessings to all who stop by!

Memorable experience...

2010-06-22T18:09:00.001-07:00

Though it has been so very long since I stopped by.. life has been busy but very good! Travels, projects, and time spent with those loved have kept me busy! I recently read on a blog venue the question of "what is one of the most memorable experiences of your life". .... It didn't take long to answer as though I have had so many wild, wonderful, romantic, loving, powerful experiences.. this is my answer...

Though I have been around less often lately as I have been amidst travel and too enjoying the summer, this question was met with incredible thought and feeling... I would say the most significant event was an incredible dream that I considered a miracle. ... I was only 14 but struggling with my mother's mental illness and though I was highly academic and highly successful in sports and other areas, inside I was hurting deeply. .. One night I had a dream that I died of cancer, went to heaven and the good Lord asked me if I had lived life as I wanted to. ... It was a powerful question and I woke up crying as it was though God was speaking to me. ... I bowed in prayer and tears and promised the good Lord I'd read the Bible end to end. .... Soon after I randomly opened the Bible and miraculously the page I turned to said if you make a vow to God you need to keep it. ... So I embarked on an 18 month journey and read the Bible from end to end. It changed my life forever. ... Though my life is not perfect by any means, and I have often been blatently reminded of my humanity, I have come to know that through faith joy is eternal and stages of happiness and sadness are temporal. .... Sometimes it is not always easy to discern the good Lord's word and voice, other times it is as apparent as can be. ... Yet I've learned that there is true joy through my Christian faith and that all spectrums of life can be so deeply beautiful.

a "Good Friday" to all...

2010-04-02T14:02:00.000-07:00

As I come to the blog on this most significant day in my Christian faith, I engage on my 28th year of fasting and prayer on this Good Friday. As I think of the significance of this day, I am mindful that perhaps we all have places of hurt, heartache, and question that we need to heal. We too all have places we need to forgive, yet sometimes forgiveness is not always easy if behaviors continue, and/or if it comes in places we hold most dear or if someone has volitionally tried to hurt us. ... We too have places we perhaps all need to be forgiven and sometimes asking for such forgiveness is so very difficult. ... Today I bow in prayer amidst my joy in life, asking for healing in the precious places that need healing, and too offer a humbled thanks to the good Lord amidst the awesome sacrifice of Christ. .. Does not the love and grace of the good Lord bring pause, gratitude and awe?

there are days...

2010-03-27T20:23:00.001-07:00

As it is nearing 11pm (yes, the post time is always wrong below)... I stop to reflect and pray before bed. .. I was grateful for the day, a shared early Palm Sunday service, and for times that touch the soul...

There are days when we share with a deeply valued friend and spend time with those loved that we are reminded of the precious walk of life and the beautiful moments that throughout the years hold forever in the heart, minds, and time...

A revisit from the poetic song in my soul.. cat talk

2010-03-14T19:09:00.000-07:00

In Memory of Midnight: 4/15/1997- 3/3/2010

Here's our adorable Polydactyl "Mittens" with our new cat- Casper Jack (his name was Casper but my daughter wanted it to be Jack after "Jack Johnson" :)

Our new cat- Casper Jack... the most affectionate cat you can imagine!

Here's Midnight with Oreo- Oreo died in 2007- also 13 at time of death

You can see why we call here "Mittens"

It has been some time since I stopped by in the powerful e-space. ... I humbly realize the past 6 months has brought me so much delight, and so much pain, joys, and tears, and perhaps in a small span of time has represented the hills and valleys we all go through in life. In addition to 2 hospitalizations a semi-unemployed husband, a car accident, difficulty with a hurtful act towards me (and a dear friend) from someone in a supervisory position and the stress that has culminated, the diagnosis of a tumor, and the death of my dearly loved cat... I too have to admit that there have been joys in times spent with those loved, in a couple delightful trips, and in the everlasting joy that comes in faith in the good Lord. ... I continue to pray for the outcome of the surgery, and too for a dear friendship so deeply important to me.. the recent hurts amidst the emergence of another sometimes leave me at such a loss, but do not our best of friendships remain steadfast through all? The past couple of weeks have brought much sadness amidst the moments of joy and daily I strive to hold to faith amidst the tears that sometimes visit my optimistic spirit and strength of faith. Daily I pray about the joys, and the heartaches the visit my journey... and too I am reminded amidst my strength and faith of the precious vulnerability sometimes visited in humanity.

Today though, I pay tribute to the joy our pets can bring. Midnight was a delightful cat that we got from an animal sanctuary when she was 6 months of age. She followed me everywhere, cuddled with me, and gave me the undivided attention and love that so many pets do. Sadly, she died just a week and a half ago... her buddy Mittens (our adorable polydactyl cat) had been looking all over the house for her friend. But a week later we found Mittens a delightful cuddly, affectionate cat (Jack). ... I share some pics above...

Do not animals/ pets become our family too?

2010-02-12T15:33:00.000-08:00

An understanding heart is everything is a teacher, and cannot be esteemed highly enough. One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feeling. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul.
Carl Jung (1875 - 1961)

Book of Eli-Powerful Lessons

2010-01-31T06:09:00.000-08:00

Saw the movie the "Book of Eli" after talking with a dear friend. Though the movie is violent in some places, there are many powerful messages. ... I too am reminded of how many of the smallest things we take for granted. Within the movie, mere KFC clean wipes are like gold, water a precious commodity, and toys, vegetation, and children nearly non-existent. How often do we search for the bigger, better, brighter, glitzier? Yet it is the precious experiences, relationships, faith, hope and love of God, self and others that fuel the light within the journey.

Vegas... much more versatile than anticipated!

2010-01-27T18:08:00.000-08:00

Greetings all,

It has been a little while since I've stopped by as on a whim I found a wonderful deal (air and 4 days in a beautiful condo resort) outside of Vegas for only $270/person! I couldn't believe it! Though we don't gamble, we saw the Cirque Du Soleil Beetles Love show, and my husband and daughter thought it the most spectacular thing they've ever seen... we too enjoyed tours of casinos, free shows, wonderful food, a tour of Hoover Dam and lake Mead and hikes in the Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon.... What beauty!

Can you Hear Me?

2010-01-19T13:08:00.000-08:00

Can you Hear Me?

She cries

as the Earth Trembles On

Mother Where are You?

Where Have you Gone?

I'm Hungry and Thirsty

Please Someone Hear

I'm Hurting and Alone

Please, Come Here

Silence Responds

Her House has Collapsed

It seems as though Days

With No One

Has Elapsed

Why, oh Why

This Tragedy?

Someone Please Hear...

Please Help Me

Will we Respond

To the Calls of our Friends?

Will we Send Help

and Restore Hope Again?

For If Each one Heard

and Responded to the Call

We can Send Food and Water

Assistance for All

Let us Bow Down in Prayer

for our Fellow Haitians

Let us Send our Assistance

And Restore Hope Again

Can you Hear Me?

She Cries

as the Earth Trembles On

Mother Where are You

Where have You Gone?

Kringle

I again humbly pray for those in Haiti and that we all may offer assistance. A mere text HAITI to 90999 will send $10 via your phone bill to the Red Cross. Or to http://www.redcross.org/

There are so many ways, I pray we may each help.

Blessings

Kringle

Photo Courtesy :

http://i.telegraph.co.uk/telegraph/multimedia/archive/01558/HAITI-GIRL_1558332c.jpg

My Decade Starts Tomorrow!!.. Perspectives of life, health and devastation

2010-01-14T18:25:00.000-08:00

Greetings All,

I pray you are well. ... As the new year and decade were upon us I thought, great, healthy start! As previously shared I wound up with a freak accident banging my head, wound up in the hospital the second time in a month... (the other due to congenital issues), and today was in a car accident with a HUMMER! Toyota Camry, vs. Hummer... guess who wins?! It has been 12 years since my serious car accident where I was nearly killed and 10 years since I've gotten a traffic violation.. (knock on wood). No violation today, but I've decided I need to start my decade tomorrow :). ..... As one who tries to take such good care, remains exceedingly fit for my 45 year old body, I am mindful that perhaps as folks said, I have 9 lives. ... Yet too, I must maintain faith, hope and optimism as I am so grateful I wasn't more seriously hurt today. I too think of how we must all stop, pray and be mindful of the devastation in Haiti. If we all take the time even to give what we can through the Red Cross or some of the other relief agencies, we can make such a difference. I promise to help out, won't you too?

I guess no matter that which we hold as "a bad day".. there is always perspective taking, and the mere sight of the devastation in Haiti brings me to my knees.

May you all be well
Peace and Blessings
Kringle

Delayed Greetings...

2010-01-04T18:16:00.001-08:00

Greetings all,

I'm sorry to be so long to post... the holidays provided much enjoyment with friends and family but sadly while amidst travel in Wisconsin I took a hit to the head a couple days ago and wound up spending last night in the hospital yet again (2nd time in a month)... It's funny... no matter how hard we try to take care of ourselves, be healthy, workout, be optimistic, and stay fit, sometimes congenital issues paired with freak accidents bring us to the curve balls of life. ... No matter what comes along, I am mindful of the precious nature of the journey.

Prayers to all of you for a beautiful new year. Perhaps it a couple days I'll post my "resolutions" poem :)

Kringle

Snow Day-Christmas Wishes

2009-12-24T11:26:00.000-08:00

Though we often have snow on Christmas.. they say this is the snowiest here since 1945... we already have about 8 inches of new snowfall and are headed for 10-12 more! How absolutely beautiful. Blessings and a very Merry Christmas to all..

"Kris" Kringle :)

2009-12-23T08:06:00.001-08:00

Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.

Norman Vincent Peale

Blessings to each of you this Christmas!

Perspectives

2009-12-12T12:12:00.001-08:00

I spent the early part of the week in the hospital, in part due to congenital issues and the precious balance of hormones, activity and food/drink that I need to keep healthy. Though I am one who tries to eat healthy stay very fit and take care of myself.. sometimes we are dealt cards at birth that we need to learn to deal with and live life as fully as possible. As the doctors were looking at my history and mentioning perplexity, I couldn't help but feel so grateful I have lived life as fully as I have.

Amidst my time there, a talk with a dear friend this morn, and the many well wishs of folks close to me... I am mindful of the precious nature of life. There are times amidst my energetic optimistic self that I face my own humanity and vulnerabilities amidst that which is held most dear. ... Yet times such as this week remind me of how deeply important those we most love are and how deeply important it is to spend time doing the things you love to do with the people you love.

Existential Questions...

2009-12-03T11:52:00.000-08:00

At times existential questions visit in the places we hold most dear. Rilke said we must learn to love the questions; but what if it is the source of the questions we love?

Thanksgiving thoughts..

2009-11-28T08:18:00.000-08:00

I pray you all had a most wonderful Thanksgiving. ... We were amidst travels to cheeseland and are now back. November has been so wonderful with the warmer weather and too a fair amount of sun, the heart just can't help but shine. ... Here is a brief Thanksgiving reflection:

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Journal Friends
On this Thanksgiving
I bow in gratitude
for two jobs I love
for health
for joy
for the good Lord
for the saving grace of Christ
for friends and family
and for all the beautiful souls
who grace my life...

My friend

shall forever be

my friend,

and reflect

a rayof God to me.

-Henry David Thoreau-

Poetic Beauty

2009-11-21T08:18:00.000-08:00

Perhaps poetic beauty

rings music

in places

we hold both founts of joy

and vessels of tears

For perhaps

those places somewhere

find harmony

in the symphonyof love

Kringle

A quote for the day...

2009-11-20T11:39:00.001-08:00

Recently a friend called in tears.. as I tried to offer comfort and friendship, I was mindful of what a gift true friendship is. ... It is those special souls with whom we can share anything, be ourselves, and support one another.

This quote I have often shared with a close friend. It has been credited to a few different authors, most often Twain or Souza. I find its beauty and importance in the times that we find joy, and too those we find tears. Amidst a recent talk with a friend who was hurting, I find it's wisdom.

"Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is ...listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on Earth." — (Twain & Souza)

Life, love, and the perplexity and beauty of the journey...

2009-11-14T08:18:00.000-08:00

I realize perhaps in the past few years I have come to know how deeply I feel, how deeply I laugh, how deeply I cry, how deeply I love. ... Some may say, "can we love too much"? I would argue no... sometimes there is pain or sadness when the heart grows tender if a loved one is hurt, if we hurt, if there are questions and hardships, or if we grow tender in our hearts wishes as we yearn for answers to the existential questions that sometimes visit. ... yet perhaps in the depths of all types of love, romance, friendship, passion, nurturing, affectionate, and unconditional love. ... it is the true love that holds to the joy and beauty of love of self, others and the good Lord. ... and for those whom we deeply love, though sometimes tenderness come, does not joy in love ring eternal?

tender...

2009-11-14T08:17:00.001-08:00

I awoke so deeply tender this morn...

I think I have daffodils growing in my heart

2009-11-06T02:50:00.000-08:00

Certain special souls touch our lives

and pieces of music or great poetry our hearts and minds

this one touches me today...

And think not you can direct the course of love,

for love,

if it finds you worthy,

directs your course.

Love has no desire but to fulfill itself

Kahlil Gibran

unexpected visit..

2009-10-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Amidst the recent unexpected visit of a longstanding health condition, I am mindful of the perplexing beauty, and complexity of the body, mind and spirit. Though normally so very healthy and one who tries to take utmost care of myself, ... perhaps sometimes we are reminded of our humanity? Our normally strong, self assured selves can visit places of pain, sadness and hurt and our emotions can ride the waves of time as we come to realize that which is held most dear and the precious nature of life. ... I have found during such times, that love of the Good Lord, Friends and family is so important as is spending time with those most loved. ... The mere sharing of a walk, talk, dinner, or even the smallest of blogs, emails, calls, and well wishes are so deeply appreciated. .. Perhaps there is beauty in coming to touch our vulnerabilities, sadnesses and pains amidst the eternal joy that can walk with us if we are grounded in faith, strength, and love?.

Tender...

2009-10-08T05:36:00.000-07:00

perhaps

we will always hold tenderness in the heart

in places

we hold the most beautiful blossoms

of love..

2009-09-29T15:57:00.001-07:00

"If you can spend a perfectly useless afternoon in a perfectly useless manner, you have learned how to live" — Yutang Lin

2009-09-23T19:40:00.001-07:00

“A thing of beauty is a joy for ever;
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness; but still will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams and health
And quiet breathing” (John Keats)

touch of beauty

2009-09-05T07:07:00.001-07:00

Do you ever have those days when all seems right with the world as you gently greet the day with a smile in your heart and you find that it all seems to fit well? My daughter and I met a dear friend and his son for a bike ride on the Root River trail yesterday. The air was fresh, the weather perfect, and the trails nearly empty, providing a union with each other, the Good Lord, and the nature around. ... We followed it with a delightful lunch at a small cafe in a tiny town and traversed back only to share guitar, song, friendship and drink. ... .

We all need to enjoy life's most precious moments!

Blessings

There are days...

2009-09-03T04:28:00.000-07:00

There are days we awake

With joy beyond words

There are days we awake

With tears of unspoken sad

There are days we awake

Wondering whats ahead

There are days we awake

with sweet prayers on our lips

No matter the heartthe emotion

the thought

Let's always awake

With love on our hearts...

prayer...

2009-08-28T06:58:00.000-07:00

I recently gave a dear friend prayer cards..

here is one of the beautiful prayers....

In the stillness of this breath
I can take comfort in knowing I am
Part of something greater than myself.

2009-08-20T18:35:00.000-07:00

Sound trumpets in the sea of heavens

that find solace in your soul

sing melodies across the land

that bring meaning to your whole

breathe love upon the universe

in laughter, smiles and tears

dance upon the dewdrops whet

let go of latent fears

and smile amidst humanity

that grips the test of time

As each step walked creates the path

of God's beautiful divine...

Kringle

Prayer Request.. and "Soul Mates"

2009-08-12T06:47:00.000-07:00

It is said that persons are lucky if they find even one soulmate in life. .. I am a firm believer in soulmates but that they do not typify a specific kind of love or relationship but that they denote two individuals who connect in a unique, special and rare way that transcends earlthy explaination.

I have felt so fortunate to find 3 soulmates along life's walk, all of whom are dearly loved perhaps in different ways and each relationship so unique and special. Within each relationship I have not only experienced a "soul" connection, but often there have been experiences beyond explaination. Just a couple nights ago I dreamt of calling a dear friend and telling him of an accident of my soul sister Julie. .. But 24 hours after the dream .. it came true. Yesterday I felt the Good Lord's nudge to call dear Julie. As she answered the phone she cried and said the Lord must of sent my call to her. The night I had the dream it turns out she had a difficult car crash, losing the car and getting very banged up. I am so glad she wasn't more seriously hurt as my dear brother died 12 years ago having suffered a grand mal seizure and a single car crash into a tree (with 2 tons of equipment in the trailer behind him). ... Later that night I too shared with my dear friend about Julie's accident.

Its funny how the Lord works sometimes. ... There are times life brings questions of God's wishes for our journey, and others that the Lord's presence is so apparent...

I'd appreciate prayers for my friends, loved ones, and Julie.

Thank you for stopping by

Blessings

Kringle

Moments

2009-08-06T08:08:00.001-07:00

Sometimes we are gifted

with opportunities

of fantastic experiences

in doing what we love

with those loved

and those special moments

forever leave footprints

upon the soul

Kringle

2009-07-29T07:59:00.000-07:00

I am mindful that there are special souls

that forever touch our lives

and how important it is

to daily thank the God Lord

for those dear and special souls

"We are each of us angels with only one wing, and we can fly only by embracing each other."-lucian de crescenzo

Blessings to each of you

2009-07-15T18:47:00.000-07:00

Summer Touch..

Summer touch

beneath my wings

take flight in depth

let spirit sing

the dance of life

permeate

the smiles the tears

love create

run wild through the sands

of life's journey

fly angels on wings

across the sea

will vast never cease

to bring end to the flight

let hearts sing now

in pure delight...

Kringle

Are there days...

2009-07-09T19:33:00.001-07:00

Are there days you touch the tender reality, beauty and questions of humanity? ...

Are there days you ponder life's gentle course in gratitude and tears?

Are there days you feel so happy you could dance upon the mountain tops..

yet so tender that tears could flow to the river?

Are there days?....

Today this quote touches me in ways that perhaps transcend words...

So I share the words that move me:

"Love is not love until love's vulnerable."

(Theodore Roethke)

Are there days you touch the vulnerability of Love for others

amidst the grandest of loves of our dear Lord?

Are there days?

Thoughts for the Day... on "Wholeness"

2009-07-02T05:43:00.000-07:00

I have been reading an interesting book titled Seeking Peace by Johann Christoph Arnold. Within the book he shares a wonderful quote from Henri Nouwen...

As Nouwen talks of the complexity of life and multiple roles, activities, values, beliefs, etc. he writes

How can we "keep in together" when we are constantly being torn apart? Jesus says, "Not a hair of your head will be lost. Your perseverence will win you your lives (Luke 21:18019). We can only survive our world when we trust that God knows us more intimately than we know ourselves. We can only keep it together when we believe that God holds us together. We... win our lives when we remain faithful to the truth that every little part of us, yes every hair, is completely safe in the divine embrace of our Lord. "

Do you ever have those tender areas of your life that you care so much about yet they too seed such vulnerability when gentle concerns or questions seep in to the thoughts and feelings? No matter how much faith, hope and love we live life with, we are all so deeply human. ...

Sometimes it is so incredibly difficult, yet so uniquely important,

to "Let go and Let God."....

Words to sing to the mind...

2009-06-28T06:20:00.001-07:00

I thought I'd start the day with words to sing through our minds..

Follow the glistening dew drops
To the center of the web
Limitations define us,
Ordeals temper us
See the Great Teacher
Behind every disguise

Ralph H. Blum

your dad...

2009-06-21T15:59:00.000-07:00

So I'm curious, if anyone stops by, what is your favorite memory of your dad?....

Despite mom's mental illness, and my brother's disabilities, my dad always has kept an optimistic view of life and strived to live life fully. ... My favorite memories stem from the fact that although an executive and very busy man. He always found time to spend time with my brother and me... to teach us silly games, bring us on adventures and to show us the world through travel, story, and exploration... Now that I'm grown, I have developed a deep respect for how selflessly he has lived life, yet how many friends he has formed along the way!!

2009-06-20T08:09:00.000-07:00

How rare and precious are the journeys with those we love most and connect with on a level that transcends words....

"The best and most beautiful things

cannot be seen,

or even touched.

They must be felt with the heart."

-Helen Keller

2009-06-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

I just returned from a delightful MS 150 event.. a 150 mile Bike ride from Duluth to the cities. ... to benefit M.S. This year sadly, two of our 15 members unexpectedly were diagnosed with M.S. ... it was a sad irony, yet speaks to the importance of research for this special event. ... We raised over $10,000 and I am so grateful for the generosity of those who give to others!!

Blessings to each of you

Friendship

2009-06-06T08:01:00.000-07:00

I am mindful the beautiful gift of friendship... though we walk through life and in an out of so many people's lives, it is the depth of life long, loving best friends that provides support through the journey. .. Today much nostalgia has visited as sometimes memories bring us to the heights of delight, and the sweet pangs of sadness, yet isn't there beauty in every walk of the journey?

I was searching for a quote in one of my massive compilations of favorite quotes I compiled throughout the years. .. Amidst my search I came upon another quote... it is one I wrote back in 2003 as I bowed in gratitude for a new special friend... ironically it was a quote that came to me in a conversation with God.. . Sometimes prayer brings such wonders to life. ...

Here is the quote:

“Friendship is a gift that affords two people to walk together through the challenges, joys, and adventures of life, celebrating each other in the journey” --

(written by me... yet perhaps a gift from God, amidst a deeply cherished friendship and shared journey)

2009-05-30T00:33:00.000-07:00

As I contemplate the complexity of life, love, friendships, family and our journey with others, I am mindful as we walk through life, we are lucky to ever connect on a soulful level with one or two people; such connections are so unique and rare as two people wish for the best for one another, never wish to bring hurt, yet too, always are there amidst our deepest of skills, talents and joys, and deepest of vulnerabilities, failings and humanity. .... I love this quote:

A soul connection is a resonance between two people who respond to the essential beauty of each other’s individual natures, behind their facades, and who connect on this deeper level. This kind of mutual recognition provides the catalyst for a potent alchemy. It is a sacred alliance whose purpose is to help both partners discover and realize their deepest potentials. While a heart connection lets us appreciate those we love just as they are, a soul connection opens up a further dimension—seeing and loving them for who they could be, and for who we could become under their influence

John Welwood, “Love and Awakening”

Ever?

2009-05-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

Do you ever in the fleetest of moments touch a tenderness and vulnerability within?.. Amidst the strength, faith, joy and love held, sometimes the smallest of things can touch our deepest humanity.

"I understand now that the vulnerability I've always felt is the greatest strength a person can have. You can't experience life without feeling life. What I've learned is that being vulnerable to somebody you love is not a weakness, it is a strength."

(Elisabeth Shue)

Thoughts on Prayer...

2009-05-16T14:24:00.000-07:00

Amidst tenderness that visits... I was thinking about the amazing power of prayer and how we create with our dear loving God of grace. Since a small child I have bowed on my knees in prayer in the midst of tears, sadness, triumph and joy. ... I could tell stories of amazing transformation and miracles, yet too times of sorrow where I argued with God in the questions and sadness. Is it not such a blessing that we can wrestle with, talk to, cry with, celebrate, and express that which is our innermost self to the dear Lord? It is in times of tears, and in times of joy, in times of strength, and in times of great vulnerability that I find deep solace in God's gentle whisper.

I am mindful of the great words of Martin Luther as he spoke of prayer...

"God cares for us so much that he is prepare to give us even more than we are ready to receive or ask for. Because he is offering us so much, we can pray with confidence...."

I do not pretend to always pray in confidence of that which I most hope for, or the healing of my hurts, or celebration of my triumphs.. yet I know I can express anything to the good Lord, and am confident in His infinite wisdom and love that amidst my humanity, the good Lord listens, whsipers, and is always there...

So today I pray for my joys, my saddness, my heartaches, my triumphs, my questions, my answers and in celebration for all those loved, all those who hurt, all those in need, and all those special souls that wander to this place.

One Lovely Blog...

2009-05-14T20:07:00.000-07:00

a favorite beautiful place... and a favorite time.. in Australia

Heartfelt Thanks to September Mom who Listed this blog as a "One Lovely Blog" award.. on her beautiful blog: My Voice, My View

I am touched....

Let's all take time out

and consider that which brings us beauty

and love

to the depths of our souls

Blessings

Kringle

2009-05-13T17:33:00.001-07:00

“Be helpless, dumbfounded, unable to say yes or no. Then a stretcher will come from grace and gather us up” (Rumi)

Mom's Day

2009-05-10T19:13:00.000-07:00

I am mindful that Mother's Day can bring a dance of gratitude, love, joy, and sadness depending on where we are in life. ... Today events were such a mix for me, in the joy, in the love, in the gratitude, yet too in the sad. ...

Perhaps in the many tendernesses, I was reminded of mom's schizophrenia and the barriers it has posed for her in fully realizing life... yet too the gratitude that she always did the best she could. I too spent time with a dearly valued friend, received kind messages from my "second daughter" and additional messages from friends, ... and I got to spend time with my little dearie...

In the tenderness, love and gratitude,

I pray all the mom's out there

had a beautiful Mother's Day

The tender touch of Humanity

2009-05-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

Chinese friendship garden, Sydney

Do you every touch your tenderest of humanities

as tears fill your eyes in the dance

of the joy and the sadnesses that are the instruments

that play the melody of life?

Do you ever contemplate how love can be so powerful

that the Good Lord sent dear Jesus in grace and love beyond words

Do you ever stop and tenderly touch the loves in your own heart

that are too powerful for words?

Do you ever touch your deepest vulnerabilities

those that hold most meaning

and bring you to touch the gentle questions

of the walk

Do you ever drop to your knees in prayer

in awe

and contemplate the beauty of life

Do you ever?

Beautiful Excerpt...

2009-05-06T17:10:00.001-07:00

Every beginning

is only a sequel, after all,

and the book of events

is always open halfway through...

(Wislawa Szmborska)

Perspectives...

2009-05-02T20:10:00.000-07:00

I took this photo while at a recent National Conference in Texas...It is a reminder of the devastation that hit Galveston.

Sometimes it takes subtle reminders

to bring us to our knees

and to remember....

all those who suffer

those who are ill

those who hurt

those who cry out...

and to consider all that we have

all that we are

the many blessings that grace our lives

and that the simplest of gestures

can sometimes brighten a life

Words that Move... as Sent from My Soul Sister

2009-04-29T07:28:00.001-07:00

Typically I start my day teaching aerobics, followed by sharing with my dear daughter, and then a short devotion or reflection to start the day. There are only 3 in my life I have held to as soul mates/ friends. They are those special souls with which we connect on a different level than anyone else.. .perhaps in a way that transcends earthly connections and ventures to the spiritual. Often my soul sister Julie and I send each other touching devotions. I thought I'd share the moving words she sent me today. ... I thought of the concept of doors, avenues and opportunities set forth by the good Lord. I thought back to my most difficult decision, to leave a place of work I loved in order to take a faculty position. ... It was a door the good Lord clearly opened and gently guided me through, yet too such a difficult decision to make. ... Leaving a place of work I loved and total security and fairly decent pay was the most difficult decision I ever made... here I am 12 years later reflecting on how it too, was one of the best decisions I made! Blessings to all and may we all see the opportunities and doors the good Lord opens!

One Door Closes..Another Opens Revelations 3:8

When God leads you to the edge of the cliff, trust Him fully and let go, only 1 of 2 things will happen, either He'll catch you when you fall, or He'll teach you how to fly! 'The power of one sentence! God is going to shift things around for you today and let things work in your favor. If you believe, send it. If you don't believe, delete it. God closes doors no man can open & God opens doors no man can close.

2009-04-23T13:16:00.001-07:00

Sometimes when we least expect

in the view of a beautiful sunset

the spending time with those loved

in the laughter of the child

tears of the heart

or inspiration of a fine poem

we touch the tenderest of places

in our soul...

Words that Move Me...

2009-04-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

A thing of beauty is a joy for ever;
Its loveliness increases; it will never
Pass into nothingness; but still will keep
A bower quiet for us, and a sleep
Full of sweet dreams and health

And quiet breathing

(John Keats)

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T12:14:00.000-07:00

I sat alone wondering

in the call

where you were

I cried to you when sad

and gently smiled when joy filled

sometimes I stumbled

sometimes I fell

You never hesitate

to pick me up

brush me off

and whisper to me

in my humanity

that I am loved

I tell you all my deepest secrets

my failings

my wonders

you listen

and you love me

like none other

Sometimes I forget

to say thank you

yet you still loved

and stretched out

and died for me

your love brings awe

and as I strive

to express gratitude

I am mindful that no matter

the hour,

the day,

my joy,

my stumbling

you are there

and it was the "I", and the "We"

you died for

that we may dance in the heavens

with you

eternally...

Thank you Jesus

Thank you

Kringle

Eve Stop and thoughts on death

2009-04-09T19:23:00.001-07:00

Amidst a busy week it has been some time that I have visited my online journal, Facebook, this blog, and a poetry site I visit. ... I realize that these sites are such a blessing yet too sometimes take time and therefore life's journey brings us to the ebbs and flows of personal, interpersonal, and e-interface. ...

This past week I was notified of the recent death of our neighbor Karl. ... I admit, sadness still visits as I walk by his house and expect him to be in the yard with a smile, wave and greeting. He was the neigborhood socialite and always the first to help out if something needed fixing or a car was sputtering. ... Karl found out less than a year ago that he had stage 4 cancer... only months later at his young age of 54 he is dead... it seems surreal.

Yet, too it is in death we are reminded of that which we hold most dear. This last year I posted this poem to a website. It is one that means a great deal to me as a friend's parent died at the time and then the following month a friend from aerobics died. .. .I share it again here.

Blessings to anyone who may visit

After Glow...

I'd like the memory of me

To be a happy one

I'd like to leave and after glow

Of smiles when life is done

I'd like to leave an echo

Whisperin softly down

the ways of happy times,

and..laughing times,

and bright and..sunny days

I'd like the tears of those who

I grieve, to dry before the sun

of happy memories that I leave

when life is done (Anonymous)...

Spring Surprise....

2009-04-05T13:16:00.000-07:00

Yes, reality hit this morn... look what showed up this morn... the snow laden view looking back by the deck and pool:

Breath of Snow...

Snow falls down

on springs new dawn

soft til white

upon the lawn

Childlike moods

within awake

taunting what?

a spring snow flake?

Ye laugh today

in April' born

lookin somewhat more

like Christmas morn

Just smile within

the childlike heart

it'll all soon melt

in winter's part

and spring life breathe

within awake

hello fresh sun

good bye snow flake!!!

ever?

2009-04-02T18:38:00.001-07:00

Amidst the daily walk...

do you ever touch your tenderest of places of humanity and vulnerability?

A Break in the Day... For thoughts on Stress

2009-03-31T13:12:00.000-07:00

As I take a brief break I ponder the fact that there are certain things in life that are sure to bring stress.. and perhaps at times there are many good stressors (also known as eustress). ... yet sometimes events occur that perhaps put us on the fine line of whether or not to stress about them... it is with these we have a choice. Sometimes writing, reading and praying about them brings perspective.... sometimes we act too quickly.. sometimes we dwell too much. I am mindful of the importance of faith, hope, love, friendship, and taking occasional breaks in the day so as not to stress out about that which may bring stress, but to focus on the positive, the situation, and come up with solutions. Such solutions may be directed at the self, and/ or others. Yet sometimes we need to pause, breathe, go for a run, pray, or just take a step back to ponder that which brings unrest to the heart and soul. Just a little food for thought.

"There are thousands of causes for stress... one antidote to stress is self expression."

(Garson Kanin)...

Perhaps the blog and personal journals are one beautiful venue for self expression?!

Blessings to anyone who stops by

Kringle

A quote that moves me...

2009-03-29T10:42:00.000-07:00

"No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted."

Aesop (620 BC - 560 BC), The Lion and the Mouse

prayer request

2009-03-27T07:43:00.000-07:00

Greetings to Any Blog Visitors...

Both Minnesota and North Dakota residents are scrambling as the flooding paired with difficult weather has caused much damage already and the flood waters have not yet peaked. Thankfully many of the hospital and nursing home residents have been evacuated, yet too we need to pray for the safety of all and that the damage will be minimized. Any prayers would be appreciated...

Thank You and Blessings

Kringle

(Photo courtesy Mn TPT)

The Power in Music... Who am I

2009-03-26T10:07:00.000-07:00

As a familiar song unexpectedly came on the radio, I fought back tears related to its power, its beauty, and special memories of a shared time that forever touched the soul. ... Is not the power and beauty of music wonderful? ... And too this music relates to the precious love of God through our strengths, our joys, our vulnerabilities, our loves, our heartaches, our triumphs, our gentle questions and our every precious walk through the poetic journey of life. ... I share this powerful song here...

(If you'd like to see a neat You Tube and hear the song you can click on this link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CT7x3VnrqbA

Who am I (Casting Crowns)

Who am I?

That the Lord of all the earth,

Would care to know my name,

Would care to feel my hurt.

Who am I?

That the bright and morning star,

Would choose to light the way,

For my ever wandering heart.

Bridge:

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done.

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

Chorus:

I am a flower quickly fading,

Here today and gone tomorrow,

A wave tossed in the ocean,

A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,

Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,

And you've told me who I am.

I am yours.

Who am I?

that the eyes that see my sin

Would look on me with love

And watch me rise again.

Who am I?

That the voice that calmed the sea,

Would call out through the rain,

And calm the storm in me.

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done.

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,

Here today and gone tomorrow,

A wave tossed in the ocean,

A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,

Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,

And you've told me who I am.I am yours.

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done.

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,

Here today and gone tomorrow,

A wave tossed in the ocean,A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,

Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,

And you've told me who I am.

I am yours.

Whom shall I fear?

Cause I am yours.

I am yours.

Tears of a Stranger

2009-03-23T14:02:00.000-07:00

While visiting a friend, I stopped to eat lunch at a local establishment today, there was a homeless woman who was clearly mentally ill walking around. I watched her for but a little, yet then chose to divert my attention to my lunch. The Italian eatery gave me far too much and so I proceeded to the garbage planning to throw it out... As the food fell, the homeless woman rushed, yet it was too late... she actually wanted my uneaten food. I felt so bad. I watched her proceed to silently turn and sit down on the corner. I fought back tears as I reached for a ten dollar bill, handed it to her, and said, please buy yourself lunch. She wept; and wept. I didn't know what to stay, I just stood there with her, letting her know someone cared. ... she then proceeded into line, and bought herself lunch. As I thought in prayer, why is it so often we shun the homeless and mentally ill? ... How would it be if I were that woman sitting and wishing to grab a kernel of food from a stranger? ... And how do we individually and collectively work to help those who hurt, those who are homeless, those who wish to have someone reach out? ... Perhaps the face of God greeted me today.. it leaves me humbled and in prayer.

A tiny morsal
of caloric good..
leaves most of us
without second thought

Yet what of the woman
who sits alone?
What of the homeless
who seeks a home?

What of the child
who says, "mom please more"...
where and how
can we open the door

What of those
who cry inside
what of those
who wish to hide

Can we not hear
can we not see
can we not listen
to the smallest of plea?

Humanity visits
in the plenty just now
as I pray dear Lord
please show me how
To extend a hand
to dry a tear
to quench a thirst
and alleviate fear

I bow in prayer
humbled in whole
please be with
all the hurting souls
Take my hand
let it extend
may I be a window
and say "I can"
May I make a difference
for even just one
Please oh Lord..
Let your work be done

humbled surrender...

2009-03-18T02:44:00.000-07:00

Have you ever found yourself fighting a heavy heart because you wished so much for something? Perhaps it was a job, events in life, an opportunity, or changes in the world? Perhaps you wished so much for something amidst striving for goals, nurturing an important relationship or in trying so hard in coming to understand the perplexity of life, love and the beautiful complexity of the journey? Perhaps you've struggled with trying to hear the heart of another, to find your calling in life, or God's gentle direction amidst your own heart's hopes, wishes and dreams? I have been humbled of late in walking through life and contemplating how amidst my fervency and optimism how sometimes we touch the tenderest of places of humanity and vulnerability ... Though one of deep faith, I find it interesting how easy it is to want to control areas of our lives we may not have control over. ... Perhaps the unpredictability leaves us uneasy? Perhaps the tender tugs of the heart renders us so blatently human? I found this piece so moving and I thought I'd share it here...

Surrender....

Difficulties should not depress or divert us. The cause that has gripped us is so great that the small weaknesses of individuals cannot destroy it. Therefore I ask you only one thing: Do not be so worried about yourself. Free yourself from all your plans and aims. They occupy you far too much. Surrender yourself to the sun, the rain, and the wind and do as the flowers and the birds. Surrender yourself to God. Wish for nothing but one thing: that his will be done, that his kingdom come and that his nature be revealed. Then all will be well.

Eberhard Arnold

While I am mindful that we must take action in life... perhaps too we must know when to Let go and Let God and sit at peace and inaction... sometimes I find myself running around trying to "act", when it best to sit and listen. Just a bit of food for thought.

2009-03-15T07:20:00.001-07:00

A friend recently sent me this humorous clip regarding the state our present day. It speaks to the fact that though times are tough, we really have many blessings and conveniences we didn't have 50 plus years ago. ... I am mindful of the truisms in both perspectives as we can be optimists and realists holding to the bright side of life, yet too considering the best course of action to create fulfilling lives given our past and present state. ... Perhaps I am atypical as I see time as more fluid and dynamic than linear as the past and present seed the future, yet too each moment is captured forever in time. ... I now share the video, I hope if anyone stops by they will get a few smiles.Blessings!

Kringlehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LoGYx35ypus

On Life, Death and that which fills the journey...

2009-03-11T16:50:00.001-07:00

Having just visited a neighbors... tenderness enters as we just learned about a month ago he has only 3 months to live. At his current relatively young age of 54, he was recently informed he has stage 4 cancer.... Life as he knew it a couple months ago forever changed and now he has less than two months to live. ... Is life not perplexing sometimes? ... Yet perhaps especially amidst hardship and sadness we come to realize that which we hold closest to the heart. ... The steadfast friendships, the things we love to do, the people we love, and the faith we hold. ...

Yeah life is precious

each step of the walk....

May Carl live his last days in peace

may he look back and find the beauty in his footsteps

and may he know he was surrounded in love, friendship

and will continue to be so

as the Good Lord wraps his arms around him..

In memory...

2009-03-08T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am mindful how pictures capture a thousand moments

and a thousand memories...

Just now I am missing my dear brother

he would have been 42 today

In memory of one who made people laugh

who played hard

who lived fervently

and whose life was cut short...

too short

yet I am forever grateful

for each of the days

he graced the the earth...

2009-02-18T19:35:00.000-08:00

sometimes life brings us to ask the gentlest of questions

amidst that which fuels the soul...

A ponderance for Valentines Day...

2009-02-13T06:43:00.000-08:00

As I come to this blog, I am mindful of the nature of Valentine's Day in its celebration of love. We typically hold the day for romantic love, yet too is there not such beauty in all types of love? ... The affectionate love, the nurturing love of a parent, the romantic passionate love, the love of friendship, the altruistic love, and yes, that which is most powerful, unconditional love. ... Though many may have broken hearts on this Valentine's from lost love, loss of a love one, or just hurt, yet too many have joys and gratitude that permeate amidst all the loves. I pray all who may visit here may find the love in your heart and that which brings you most joy. ... For Valentine's Day is truly a day to celebrate the precious gift of God... Love.

I heard this poem on the radio and wished to share. .....

May your days and weekend, be filled with love:

A Valentine for Jesus

Jesus does not send perfume

To linger in the air

Instead He sends salvation, sweet

To show how much He cares.

He doesn’t bring me candy hearts

In boxes of delight

Instead He always lets me know

I’m precious in His sight.

He doesn’t pass out pretty cards

Trimmed in shades of red

Instead He gave His life for me

His precious blood was shed.

He doesn’t hand out fancy gifts

Like we would send to mother

Instead He sends a message clear

To always love each other.
He doesn’t give me teddy bears

That whimper, “please be mine”

Instead He gave His heart to me

I wear it all the time.

He doesn’t give me roses, pink

For all the world to see

Instead He gave eternal life

That’s beautiful to me...

(Anonymous)

life views...

2009-02-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked,

"are you a pessimist, optimist, or realist?... "

My answer went something like this. ...

I am an eternal optimist...

yet amidst my optimism

I hold to the reality of the heart

and believe there is beauty and importance in every step of the journey

amidst the sad and happy

yet too, amidst faith hope and love

there is eternal joy

The power of Quotes

2009-02-08T05:44:00.000-08:00

Though I've seen the quote attributed to various persons... and reversed in order, ... no matter who it is officially attributed to, I find it beautiful....

"Dance like no one is watching, work like you don't need the money, and love like you've never been hurt..."

Satchel Paige

What a beautiful thought....
in these uncertain times
prayers to anyone who stops by.
Kringle

Listen...

2009-02-04T19:39:00.000-08:00

I am mindful of the importance of listening, not only in what we hear, yet too in what we read. In this day and age amidst all the technology, I think sometimes society has made it easy to tune out the specifics of documents, emails, or any form of written word. Typically I teach in a graduate rehabilitation program, yet too I teach overload in our psychology department. ... Yesterday I gave the undergraduate students a survey form inquiring of their learning styles, comfort levels in class, and their goals for the semester.....

When asked,

"What would you like to get out of this class?"

One student wrote... "I love to run, bike and cross country ski!!!!"

Yeah, we need to "listen" to what we read!!

liquid of life...

2009-01-30T14:14:00.000-08:00

As I perused the paper yesterday, I was struck by a recent article on water facts.. So often here in the Western world we take for granted the ability to drink from a faucet, to take a shower, and to plunge in a pool. Yet much of the world is without adequate fresh water and all too often we run water as if we have an endless supply. Here are some fascinating facts provided by the Science Museum that brought me to pause and reflect of the importance of conservation...

* 70% of the Earth's surface is water, yet only three percent is freshwater.

*According the Water International, less than 1% of the freshwater is directly accessible for human use.

* 2.7 tons of plastic are used each year in bottled water; only about 20% of that is recycled

* If you fill the bottle 1/4 full of oil... that is how much oil it took to make and produce the bottle

* It takes 74 gallons of water (including plant growth) to make a cup of coffee

*It takes 713 gallons of water to produce a T-Shirt (yes, we need to recycle!)

*According to Water International, 3.575 million people die each year from water related diseases (i.e. lack of clean water)

*Water International indicated that at any given time half of the world's hospital beds are related to water related diseases

*More than 2/3 of people without access to clean water live on less than $2 a day

*According to Water International, an American taking a 5 minute shower uses more water than many typical people in "slum nations" use in an entire day

*Poor people in these nations spend 5-10 x more than the rich for a liter of water in the same nation

These facts are shocking... and remind me of the importance of water conservation...

and stopping to be thankful for every glass of clean water. They too are a reminder that we must minimize pollution and work towards energy conservation. ... I've always been one to shy away from plastic bottled drinking water.... perhaps too I need to think of all those pop and juice containers? Recent studies discuss that many of the bottles are unhealthy anyways given the chemical compounds...

Perhaps I needed the news article to encourage me to take time to stop, think

and be thankful for a clean, clear, refreshing glass of water!!!

Sources:

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/38539882.html?elr=KArks7PYDiaK7DUHPYDiaK7DUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiU

http://www.water.org/waterpartners.aspx?pgID=916

I Can Only Imagine

2009-01-26T19:04:00.000-08:00

As I stop by this blogsite I do so with much thought tonight. I think of the precious nature of life and living and making the most of every moment, cherishing all experiences, each emotion, and every step of the journey.

Yesterday I learned of the death of a dear elderly man who graced our church. ... Though in his mid-80's, to his final days he sought not to focus on his own needs, but to give to others. ... This past year he had learned that I had inherited a coin collection from my dear late brother. He so generously indicated that he loves coins and volunteered to organize the collection as I know very little about the nature of coin collection. .. Though I insisted on paying him, he refused indicating he'd love to organize the collection and his only wish was a dinner out. Periodically he would update on the progress, I of course feeling that he was spending much too much time, he enjoying the process. ... Sadly, before learning of his death, we never got to share that dinner. ....

Life is so precious... we never know how our days will be counted. Yet it is in the faith of death, compromised health, or close calls as in accidents, that we are reminded of the precious nature of life. I have always been moved by the words of the song "I Can Only Imagine" by Mercy Me. I often think of my dear brother Brian who despite his epilepsy, learning disabilities and TBI ran marathons, biked across America, and owned his own business. I share a video today that I have sent to those most dear in the past. It is the song put to a video of the Hoyts, and extraordinary father-son connection. http://video.aol.com/video-detail/dick-and-rick-hoyt-at-the-ironman-triathlon-i-can-only-imagine/456301782

Here's to you dear Brian.

I Can Only Imagine

I can only imagine

What it will be like

When I walk

By your side

I can only imagine

What my eyes will see

When your face Is

before me

I can only imagine

Surrounded by Your glory,

what will my heart feel

Will I dance for you Jesus

or in awe of you be still

Will I stand in your presence

or to my knees will I fall

Will I sing hallelujah,

will I be able to speak at all

I can only imagine

When that day comes

And I find myself

Standing in the Son

I can only imagine

When all I will do Is forever

Forever

worship You

I can only imagine

When all I will do

Is forever,

forever worship you

I can only imagine

Blessings to anyone who stops by

The Invitation...

2009-01-19T17:46:00.000-08:00

As I sat today waiting for an important research meeting, I glanced on the shelf of one of our partners. The book The Invitation by Oriah "Mountain Dreamer" sat captivatingly singing to me. ...

I saw these words she had written

and was so deeply moved. .....

The Invitation

It doesn’t interest me what you do for a living.

I want to know what you ache for

and if you dare to dream

of meeting your heart’s longing.

It doesn’t interest me how old you are.

I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool

for love

for your dream of

or the adventure of being alive.

It doesn’t interest me

what planets are squaring your moon...

I want to know if you

have touched the centre of your own sorrow

if you have been opened by life’s betrayals

or have become shrivelled

and closed from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain

mine or your own

without moving to hide it

or fade it

or fix it.

I want to know

if you can be with joy

mine or your own

if you can dance with wildness

and let the ecstasy

fill you to the tips of your fingers and toes

without cautioning us

to be careful

to be realistic

to remember the limitations

of being human.

It doesn’t interest me

if the story you are telling me is true.

I want to know

if you can disappoint another

to be true to yourself.

If you can bear the accusation of betrayal

and not betray your own soul.

If you can be faithless

and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see

Beautyeven when it is not pretty

every day.

And if you can source

your own life from its presence.

I want to know

if you can live with failure

yours and mine

and still stand

at the edge of the lake

and shout to the silver of the full moon,

“Yes.”

It doesn’t interest me

to know where you live

or how much money you have.

I want to know

if you can get up

after the night

of grief and despair

weary and bruised to the bone

and do what needs to be done

to feed the children.

It doesn’t interest me

who you know

or how you came to be here.

I want to know

if you will stand

in the centre of the fire

with meand not shrink back.

It doesn’t interest me

where or what

or with whomyou have studied.

I want to know

what sustains you

from the inside

when all else falls away.

I want to know

if you can be alone with yourself

and if you truly

like the company

you keep

in the empty moments.

Basil

2009-01-17T11:42:00.000-08:00

The effervescent tingle

permeates her mouth

whisking away cares

washing her in the tantilizing taste

of pesto's fresh cut

Olfactory bulbs light

from dim portions of past

sweet sensations arrive

a sensory bath

Basil your call

spice carry me on

lift spirits to heaven

sweet sensory song...

2009-01-15T11:22:00.000-08:00

I am mindful how the most beautiful and precious things in life cannot be purchased, bought, nor bargained for.. belief, love, faith, hope, health... they are a fountain to the precious nature of life.

Look to your health; and if you have it, praise God and value it next to conscience; for health is the second blessing that we mortals are capable of, a blessing money can't buy.

Izaak Walton

Thoughts at lunch time...

2009-01-14T10:58:00.000-08:00

Amidst lunch hour today I stopped by the insightful blog of a friend as it discusses thoughts on why we do what we do and how we create meaning and happiness in our world. Recently, amidst the steadfast joy in my life that comes from my faith along with love of God-others-self, I hit a roadblock and was having a sad and difficult day both due to my own internal state, yet too given recent hardships and stressors several friends were facing. I stopped by various sites and chose to take yet another "Happiness test"... there are several available. Although I was feeling sad and stressed at the time, and wishing to nurture my own needs as well as be there for others, amidst the "down" state, I reached to an internal source of faith, love and comfort-- perhaps from the Lord, yet too in the subtle supportive messages from those around as well as the comfort and insight provided from personal writing. I thought of how even when we are sad, down, hurting, or having a difficult day, we can hold to optimism in the process keeping in mind the natural hills and valleys that come along in life. As one who works in mental health, I consider the difference between sad and depressed. The state of sadness is a mood, yet one can feel this way and still have optimism, hope, and a fervent love of life. Yet with depression often comes a hopeless outlook, lack of interest, and difficulty performing daily activiites. Perhaps as we work with individuals who feel depressed, or if any of you, we, or anyone we know or work with becomes depressed, in addition to the natural means of addressing the depression (i.e. meds, exercise, light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, etc.)... efforts to consider means by which we can shed light on perspective and bring hope may prove fruitful in the long run. For those interested in the insightful blog I referred to, you may access it at: http://www.doinglifewell.blogspot.com/ wonderful information!

I too have always found useful the Happier.Com website as it has many useful resources and self assessments:

http://www.happier.com/form.htm;jsessionid=852335ABA3936455DBC61E034B9DF7FA

So as to save my results (as quoted) from the self assessment, they are copied here:

YOUR RESULT: Balanced and Happy You are very balanced and well-rounded. When you hit an emotional funk or a frustrating situation, you have the ability to step back and carefully evaluate the problem and your response. Keep on doing what you are doing. But don't stress if you accidentally let a work issue spill into your personal life or handle a situation in a way you wish you hadn't. You are human, and mistakes are going to happen. The good news is that you'll take them all as learning experiences and be better for them in the end. Kudos to you!

Yeah, the concept of mood is fascinating... as is how we create, sustain, nourish, and respond to our moods. Perhaps it is a unique dance between our thought process, our mood, our actions, and our interactions (smile).

Blessings to anyone who stops by

2009-01-12T02:50:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the simplest of messages can bring sunshine to the day...

Choose Daffodils

Thoughts on the Perplexity of Health...

2009-01-02T14:03:00.001-08:00

I just read the news that John Travolta's 16 year old son died following a seizure. ... Though the heart always responds for those who lose children... this one hit me hard as too it was a seizure (behind the wheel) that killed my brother when he broke through his medications. Epilepsy continues to perplex the medical field. I am mindful of how amazing medicine is, yet too how much we know compared to a decade ago, and how little we know compared to a decade from now. ... The heart grows tender as thoughts of my dear brother revisit just now. As posted on my Christmas blog.. the holiday season brings such joy in spending time with those loved... yet too when we lose someone in this world pre-maturely via early death, and/or when grandparents, friends, and loved ones have died, rituals, routines, and the tides of the seasons change, and they are missed.

I bow in prayer today for the Travolta family and their pain

and too say a prayer of thanks for 30 wonderful years with dear Brian...

Sometimes the heart grows tender

yet is there not such beauty in relationships, life, and love?

The Snow..

2008-12-30T08:50:00.000-08:00

Amidst the delicate beauty

of God's creation

joy dances in the leaves

awe tastes the breath of nature

and there is a sweet soft sadness

in the beauty of the snow....

God Talk

2008-12-28T18:07:00.000-08:00

I attended a thought provoking church service this morn. ... though I stumble and fall at times, and I strive to always live life fervently, I am so very human. Yet it is my faith that is the driving force of my life. The pastor talked this morning of the voice of God and how too often we don't open the door to hearing His will and word. I have personally known, felt and witnessed the overwhemling word of God, sometimes very subtlely, and at others times as if the Good Lord were shouting from a mountain top. ... Yet too I am mindful that perhaps at times amidst my desire to share my heart, my thoughts, and my gentle questions, I haven't paused enough to "listen" to God talk. ... So often within my heart, my joys, my sadnesses, my fervency, I want to talk, to pray, yet sometimes in the depths of conversation with God, I fail to really listen. ... I am hopeful in the coming year amidst the love of life, those most loved, and the Good Lord, I will take more time to listen, to "God Talk". There is such beauty in the journey, and in the ability to sit down to talk with God about anything at all. Sometimes in the depths of the heart, we just need to pause and listen to God's peace, solace, and gentle whisper. ... How beautiful the ability to think, to feel, to cry, to laugh, and to love. How beautiful the journey in conversation with the Good Lord. ... How beautiful to share one's innermost heart and tenderest of questions... and to pause, to listen, to hear...

God's gentle whisper

...Prayers and warmth to anyone who may visit.

Sleep- Hormones and the Nature of the Mind-Body & Soul

2008-12-28T00:58:00.000-08:00

SLEEP

Sleep, a solace to all mortals
Sleep, to some so natural
Sleep, to many so elusive
Sleep, to some so simple
Sleep, to some a real struggle
Sleep, for some, bountiful to envy
Sleep, for some, commodity to buy
Sleep, in it some walk riskily
Sleep, in it some talk profusely
Sleep, a gift to all human beings
Sleep, a basic necessity of life
Sleep well, wake up refreshed,
Step on to face daily challenges.

Rangarajan Kazhiryum Mannar

Information from this post and the poll cited taken from the National Sleep Foundation: http://www.sleepfoundation.org/site/c.huIXKjM0IxF/b.2417141/k.27D9/Home_of_the_Sleep_in_America_Poll.htm

I ponder this early morn on the delicate & resilient walk as the Good Lord created us with such incredible complexity. Though I tend to consider myself a good sleeper, perhaps those most close to me tease about my sleep habits, as does my daughter who says I need "5 minutes".. truth be told I need about 6 hours, yet on vacation I am more likely to have a few days that span an entire 8 hours of time. Yet perhaps once a month I am rendered sleepless either if I am deep in thought, awaken by matters of the heart, awaken in pain-- particularly if the body is not in a state of homeostasis, or if I am just plain "not tired". ...

So I contemplate just now my current state of sleeplessness as perhaps a combination of thought, heart twinges, gentle questions and contemplations on life's journey, and a drop in Estrogen render me in a sleepless state. ... It boggles the mind that the mere failure to take my pill last night, would a few hours later awaken me in pain thus calling to the body to get up and take care of the self. ... Is not God's creation so wonderous, complex and mystical? ... I consider the power of sleep... According to a National Poll, at least half of all Americans experience some form of sleep disorder or insomnia each week. The mere thought boggles the mind, yet too perhaps amidst the numerous studies we prescribe sleep to folks and yet I do believe we all have unique needs for sleep and that it is far too simplistic to identify the precise amount of sleep needed for all persons, just as it is minimalistic to prescribe the exact diet. ... Yes, studies show less than 5 or more the 9 hours on average may lead to numerous health problems, yet the difference of 5 & 9 is substantial and I myself know that there are times I need 6, and times I need 8... so I listen to the body. I too have come to realize it makes no sense for me to lay in bed if I am rendered sleepless, I find if I get up, even for a half hour to an hour and drink tea and do something productive yet not too active (i.e. like visit a journal or blog :-) )... I am far more likely to either go back to sleep, or to feel productive for the next day, thus, I visit just now.

As I contemplate God's delicate yet resilient creation, I too think of the power of hormones. ... Though perhaps I contemplated whether to publicly post this on a blog, or more privately in my journal, I consider... why the contemplation? We all have hormones! ... I first hand witness the effects of low estrogen as it often renders me in pain, or affects cognition, mood, and other areas of daily performance. Though I am one to always hold to faith, hope, love and optimism, I too feel very deeply, and I am mindful that at times hormones perhaps bring me even more into touch with depth of thought and feeling in a unique way. As this Christmas has brought such joy in the visiting of friends, and last night with my side of the family, it too has brought sadnesses that touch the heart and at times the most tender of places. ..... Yet what a gift God gave us, in the ability to feel, to hope, to think, to contemplate, to cry, to laugh, and to love. Though perhaps better saved for another day, or a more personal blog space, ... I revisit a deep conversation with Mikaela and my aunt last night amidst dinner. Sandy has always been my favorite aunt and I have many fond memories of going to visit her and her partner(s) over the years. She was always a forward thinking woman who loved life, adventure, and like many on our side of the family was into sports, health and fitness long before it became "vogue". ...

Sandy spoke of being "true to the self"... and "true to the heart", something I have pondered deeply and spoken to God about numerous times over the past week. ... As she spoke, I witnessed my beautiful daughter take in her words as a sponge as she later said, "that was one of my favorite conversations we've had with your family... and so true". Though I did not speak many words in response,... I too gently stated, ... yes, dear, sometimes our greatest challenge and joy is finding that which we believe, who we are, and what lies in the depths of the heart....

So I close my random blog created in the early morn hours, contemplating the delicate yet resilient creation and dynamic interplay of the mind-body-spirit. ... Yes, some we may logically explain through science, yet contemplation of our unique make up, and matters of life, reason, faith and love, go way beyond science and venture into the spiritual realm.

Yeah, life is perplexing sometimes... and certainly isn't logical

but what a wonderous creation the Good Lord painted....

'Pure logic is the ruin of the spirit.'
Antoine de Saint-ExupŽry

Christmas thoughts...

2008-12-25T08:18:00.000-08:00

photo courtesy http://www.savingadvice.com/

As I just posted a comment on a friend's blog yet it hasn't yet shown up. I found it ironic that his post was somewhat akin to that which I planned to post. ... As Christmas is upon us, I am mindful of the waves of time as the Holiday celebrations of Christmas span through the years, yet the nature of the celebration changes as we age and the relationships in our life grow, change, and too reflect the passing of time.

Celebrations used to be large family gatherings as I grew up... yet I am mindful as my grandparents have all ventured on to the great Heavenly hiway, and especially since my brother died, Christmas just isn't the same... yet certainly still has its own beauty.

Is it not interesting how Christmas, the celebration of the most beautiful gift, brings feelings of love, joy, and yet too perhaps sadness in the missing of those loved? .... Sometimes beauty is not only reflected in that which we hold most dear and in the love in our hearts. ... yet too there is beauty in the tender twinges that grace the heart... because though sadness sometimes comes in the missing, what beauty in that the missing reflects a love in our hearts.

Blessings to anyone who may visit,

you are always welcome to comment

Merry Christmas

Funny how the tender...

2008-12-23T20:24:00.001-08:00

As I visited tonight the home of one of three people in my life whom I have considered soul mates, I couldn't help but consider the special nature of the Christmas season and how it brings the deepest tendernesses of the heart. There is such joy in the message of Christmas; such joy in the gift of Christmas. Yet too there sometimes are sweet tinges of those we miss, those who have gone on before us, and in considering those who struggle this time of year. As Christmas eve is upon us, my heart's wishes are for beauty and peace to gently wash the nation and the world, and for the happiness of those most dearly loved. ... Perhaps the heart feels drawn to post in my more personal journal just now-- yet too, sometimes tendernesses and that which is held in the heart and soul transcends words. ...

Yet how beautiful the transcendent

how beautiful the gentle touch of Christmas

Rain...

2008-12-19T07:05:00.000-08:00

As I sit here on a break from some work projects, I listen to the soft sound of the rain beating against the window. I am mindful of how often rain gets a "bad rap" as folks equate it with dreary weather. Yet isn't it true that the nourishing quench of rain is the foundation of the beauty in the greenery that adorns nature? I think of a beautiful poem from the late, great Pulitzer Prize poet Conrad Aiken. I have always loved many of Conrad's poems. ... and perhaps they remind me of the beauty of Mary Oliver's writings on nature. ...

I share one of Conrad's poems here:

Beloved, Let Us Once More Praise The Rain by Conrad Aiken

Beloved, let us once more praise the rain.

Let us discover some new alphabet,

For this, the often praised; and be ourselves,

The rain, the chickweed, and the burdock leaf,

The green-white privet flower, the spotted stone,

And all that welcomes the rain; the sparrow too,

—Who watches with a hard eye from seclusion,

Beneath the elm-tree bough, till rain is done.

There is an oriole who, upside down,

Hangs at his nest, and flicks an orange wing,

—Under a tree as dead and still as lead;

There is a single leaf, in all this heaven

Of leaves, which rain has loosened from its twig:

The stem breaks, and it falls, but it is caught

Upon a sister leaf, and thus she hangs;

There is an acorn cup, beside a mushroom

Which catches three drops from the stooping cloud.

The timid bee goes back to the hive;

the fly Under the broad leaf of the hollyhock

Perpends stupid with cold; the raindark snail

Surveys the wet world from a watery stone...

And still the syllables of water whisper:

The wheel of cloud whirs slowly: while we wait In the dark room;

and in your heart I find One silver raindrop,—on a hawthorn leaf,

— Orion in a cobweb, and the World.

Just a Thought...

2008-12-17T18:07:00.000-08:00

I am mindful that no matter what transpires in the day..

no matter the sad news, uncertainties, or stumblings...

We can always go above the clouds

and see the sun shining!!!

Blessings

Kringle- Song- And a Perpetual Poet at Heart

Perhaps it is Time..

2008-12-14T08:22:00.000-08:00

Is it not interesting how the Internet has connected the global community in a way we could have never envisioned 2 decades ago? As I embark on yet another journal / blog spot, I am mindful of the power of connections with those we know in our daily lives, and those we have never met. ... I stop to ponder how I will incorporate this blog in with my other personal/ connected journals as well as a hard copy journal I have maintained since I was 9 years old. ...

The poetic journey again begins!!