We find ourselves in a unique time in our history. Never before have we held so much potential influence over others outside our modern tribal groups of family and country. Globalization has brought the world closer together, and this integration over time, promises to shift the narrative of human civilization for centuries to come. While opportunities abound, so do the risks. Many influences dominate our life today. And regardless of ideological persuasion, we can all agree it’s a bumpy ride of ups and downs, affecting the very nature of our humanity, our connection to the planet, and the meaning and celebration of life.
World wide challenges affecting the environment, health, economics, education, will continue to evolve, just as we do. But can we commit to collectively emerging stronger as a people? Change may be a constant facet of life, but channeling our focus will ensure positive change. How we act as a people now will seed into our very being the fruits to be harvested later. How we come together to drive this narrative forward depends on each one of us to own. It's amazing what can be accomplished when we invest ourselves in our creations. The power of passion, the influence of inspiration, the drive of determination combine together into indomitable strength. Together, we can create miracles. And why not? A better world beckons and we have the keys to unlock its potential even faster with our focus and vision. You have a life purpose to assist in the creation of divine harmony in the world, through sacred activism and the expression of your soul talents. The beautiful world you long for is not only possible, but part of your spiritual responsibility to create. The world needs our attention. And together we have the medicine to heal it. But we all have to pitch in. We all have to put our hands on the scales. The future is up to each one of us to own. Now is that time. Are you ready?
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2020 is here and excitement is high. It’s the beginning of the next decade they say. Well, either that or it’s the end to the last one. What is clear is that 2020 and 2021 promise to be pivotal years, not just within the context of recorded history, but also because the world is changing at a rapid pace.
It’s easy to lose sight of progress, what with all the distractions from political upheavals, all-consuming social networks, online shopping extravaganzas, and streaming entertainment excesses. Setting aside these distractions, the human race is actually doing much better for itself all the time, and these positive changes are becoming more and more apparent. Sure, there are still plenty of challenges to face. Seen in a vacuum, they remain a top priority that we must overcome, as people first, then as nations and eventually as a global community. But I speak here of undeniable progress in the spheres of our own humanity. There are people all over the world who are connecting with others, who are ready to let go of the last vestiges of prejudice and separation, to embrace a new paradigm, one where we care for the other and work together to bring about solutions to common challenges facing our communities and our planet. Passionate individuals are working hard everyday to challenge the status quo and to bring about a better more inclusive future we all can benefit from. We really live in a time of extraordinary opportunity. How we contribute now will ripple far into the future. With so many obstacles to overcome and transcend, the challenge may at times feel overwhelming. The truth is, we all need to pitch in. We all must place our hands upon the scales, because the outcome is just too important to leave to chance. The key here is to do whatever excites you! What is calling to you? Follow your inspiration and be yourself! The best way to make change is to do so from a place of resonance. Fear may motivate some, but I find that love is the more powerful ally. Knowing, accepting and loving who you are is a great first step. You will already be changing the world through your presence with that foundation alone. Want to go a step farther? Entertain what your life could be like if you let go of the baggage you’ve been carrying, strip the mental mindsets holding you back, and engage in a path of healing. By letting yourself explore more empowering perspectives, what wondrous paths could open up? You really can achieve a lot by simply listening to the inner voice and welcoming your heart’s expression into action. From here, a powerful vision can emerge, inspiring us to act. Whether for ourselves, our families or the greater good, any act of love or shared joy will help bring about a more just and harmonious world. Such a life is not far away when we all work together to better mankind. And maybe a decade from now, as we celebrate the next turning point, we can look back to these critical years and take solace knowing, we made change and yes, we really did make a difference. Happy creations! Can you imagine the pleasure of reading a book under the shade of a tree? Or perhaps picking a fresh fruit from its branches, gratitude in your heart? Or maybe climbing one, as you did once upon a time? Trees are kind of magical, they evoke memories and invite possibilities.
Yes, there is so much beauty to appreciate when these living beings emerge from the Earth full of promise, ready to make their mark upon the world. ‘From little acorns grow mighty oaks’ may be a proverb, but it is equally an invitation to reach for growth and ultimate potential. There is so much transformation that occurs, from the tiny little seed to the sapling, to the forming of its trunk and branches to a blossoming crescendo of leaves, flowers and fruit. A tree is part of nature, takes and yet gives back. A tree inspires, protects, and enlivens. There is so much generosity that we can receive from a tree. Humans and trees are surprisingly similar. We have comparable lifespans. We too grow from a seed, of sorts. We too follow a proven trajectory for our lives. In fact, we are more alike than we may realize. In many ways, trees symbolize the myriad chapters we as human beings engage in, preparing for what we seek to share with the world, our own gifts. We all start from somewhere. In many respects, where we come from mirrors the roots of a tree, our beginning. Who we are, our personhood, our values and purpose, symbolize the trunk, because connecting with who we truly are makes us strong. From here, we can build up the most important branches of our life, stretching out, creating growth opportunities and expanding our sense of self. From this place of resonance and growth, there is nothing left but to pick the flower and fruit, savoring the flavors from our rich life journey. Yes, our lives can be bountiful when we engage with our power. Because… unlike a tree, the human being is equipped with a distinguishing feature – free will. Because we are free to choose how we think, feel, be and do, we are rewarded with magnificent possibility! The secret to a good life is alignment with who we truly are, embracing the harmonic elements of what’s inside of us, while building a powerful vision that resonates. So go within. Do the work. Find the truth. And own it. When we combine all of the pieces of us to create wholeness, magic happens. The whole really is greater than the sum of its parts. A tree can tell us that. So time to find the magic, count the blessings and live, liberated. Aim high! There is this idea that to truly excel we need that unknown special ingredient that will help set us apart from others and allow us to stand out. That to truly show up with power, to be recognized and appreciated, we must be blessed in some way. That somehow we’re not enough just as we are.
To receive the recognition we seek, we often stray from our intended path while learning to compromise our beliefs, our values, and other aspects of our being. Some may suggest that’s simply part of the learning process and they wouldn't be wrong, there's balance to be achieved, but it's good to be mindful when there is a cost. Have you ever picked the wrong type of work or relationship where you had to significantly accommodate another, only later to find out how destructive to your well-being that situation actually was? Pain comes from depriving our self from true ownership of who we are. What makes us powerfully unique. There is an erosion of the self as each wave of compromise from familial, educational and societal pressure chips away at our core. Systemically, it’s just not sustainable. A primary opportunity in life is to do the opposite, to come out from hiding and shine your light upon the world. To come forward as you are! You've got what it takes too. I'm sure you know parts of you well. And maybe other aspects need to be nurtured more. But there is no doubt that by tapping into your natural inclinations, you will succeed. The totality of your energy, talents, strengths, values, and lessons learned is your gift to the world. It’s the medicine the world needs right now to thrive! Why deprive the world of your leadership, your love and light, your presence and impact? We all can benefit from the gift of you! You have so much to offer. There is no one else like you. Realign yourself with the full power and high harmonics of who you really are. Own what makes you different and special. And rest assured, you need not be perfect as we are all works in progress. Even the crescent moon shines its light upon the world. You are the magic ingredient. Own that! And share it far and wide. Have you ever thrown a rock into a pond and observed how the wavelets ripple out to the water’s edge? The size of the stone, how far and deep it is thrown matters. We hear it differently, we see its splash, and there is a noticeable change on the water’s surface. It’s a playful act, perhaps contemplative at times. There is a declaration that you were here, in this moment, that you made a difference in your environment just by taking action.
As people, we are not the rock or the pond, but we still feel deeply when someone throws a pebble or boulder into our space. We integrate that impact into our thoughts and feelings. Can you think of something someone once said to you, perhaps when you were younger, that you still hold in your heart? Was there ever a time someone else’s behavior, intention, action, words or even thoughts permeated your experience in a way that changed you forever? Perhaps it made you more fearful or more loving, more open or more shut down? We act in concert with others, and thus we engage with the world. Those interactions and how we respond strengthen or diminish our power. People are complex and their effects upon us are too, but there is no denying that outside influences shape us. I think back to Mr. Rogers, for instance. He was a television personality from my younger days on this Earth and more to the point, he was a teacher. He taught me that it was OK to be me, my original self, and to stay true to such values as understanding, respect, love, sharing, generosity, caring, friendship and acceptance. His is a voice that I don’t consciously carry within my being, but I know had a huge impact on my well-being. His message resonated with me and with thousands of other kids out there. He impacted the parents who had an ally to help explain to their children hard topics, such as divorce. He impacted his team with his creativity, had a diverse staff and operated from love and kindness. He showed up as a real human being, with his own shortcomings. Through this modeling, he gave people permission to follow their own path. Now Mr. Rogers is but one voice in a symphonic cacophony that makes up our lives. Yet I wonder, who inspired him? What influenced this man? People across the spectrum of time and space, names we may never know. And that’s the key. Your small act now may turn into a larger one later. To think that all those kids who were affected are grown up now, instilling similar values into their kids. How the ripple has grown. Now it has become a wave. You can make waves too. With compassion in your heart and with intention for positive change, you can make a big difference. Someone’s thoughts, memories, feelings, or perspectives will be changed forever because of you. You are more powerful than you realize and you make more impact than you’re aware of. We’re here to help each other along the way and by you owning your presence, who knows who you might inspire… you may one day touch the lives of those you don’t even know. So own the change you are making in this world. You’re helping others to grow and thrive! From writers to singers to comics and even politicians, the world is awash with a message of hope, that we can be more, achieve more, have more and together benefit from the common good we create for all.
I can firmly espouse such a belief because I know first-hand that it is true. In my work as a life coach, I have met many passionate individuals who share such a dream, people who wish to mend their heart while putting their best foot forward in order to create the world we want to live in today, one of trust, peace, understanding, and respect. It is a world dominated by a simple truth – that love is the more powerful choice. We aren’t all spinning on this Planet at this time just as some wild coincidence. We are all co-creating life on Earth right now. Together. And thus together, we can change it. Think of this world as an ocean and we as drops within it. Change the drop, change the ocean. That means you have the power and influence to do great things when you decide to work on yourself and unleash the creativity, passion, and untapped potential within you. Embracing yourself is a form of healing. And love is the foundation. When you live your passions, people see the real you. Being seen and appreciated for your shining magnificence is such a gift. From this place of high resonance, everything we want can be created. We can emerge as whole again as we nurture and love and embrace the light within. Owning love means choosing light over darkness. Light brings inspiration! And so much more. Love builds bridges. And connects us to the All. As we give in to our positive intentions and take action, we create the world we want to live in, right now. When we radiate light, we inspire. We teach. We grow. We expand our possibilities! Together, we find ourselves on the cusp of massive transformation. All that is required now is to move forward at choice. What does your heart say? When we are children, the idea of life as an adult seems far away and abstract. Present time living rules. Conversely as adults, the opposite is true. We are often stuck in memories from the past or worries about the future, and that sense of wondering about what could be based on the gifts of the now seems elusive.
Gifted with the joy of parenthood, I have found myself grounded in the present moment many a time, especially as I play alongside my young 3 year old son. Recently, we’ve been traveling in an imaginary spaceship to lands far and wide, discovering new worlds, and bringing back newfound knowledge to apply here at home. I love that our travels change our perspectives about life while enriching us on our journey. Every time we take off again for destinations unknown, we are armed with the experience of pathways already traveled and assisted with a sense of purpose and knowing that all will be well. While our perception of time changes, it dominates our existence. Thankfully, there are chapters when we can pause and take in a new reality. Like January, when another year begins. As arbitrary as it may feel, a changing year is an opportunity to reset our mindset to create anew. We can be immersed in the joy and excitement that a fresh new year can bring. There is often a flurry of activity as reflections are made, resolutions are forged, and plans and goals committed to. A new dawn is always exciting, and the coming year is yet another adventure in our time here on Earth. Making it count is important not only for ourselves but for those we love and support, who are all around us, and who may benefit from the bounty that we create, from the plans, projects and dreams we wish to bring to fruition. Our vision may need more time to be fully crystallized, but we know that inside ourselves raw creative power is bubbling to the surface. Just like rocket fuel. All that we are and all that we have can be brought forth to generate the kind of energy required to reach far and go beyond. With integration, we build a new launch pad. With vision, we aim high. With trust, we believe we will make it. What will emerge may still remain a mystery, but with some imagination, play, and inspiration, who knows what wonderful things you will be and do. Here’s what I want you to remember: You are a magnificent being. There is greatness in you. And potential and possibility is calling you forward… So go out there, connect with the wonder of your own inner child if you must, and be the rocket! I can’t wait to hear about your next adventure! Well, we are fast approaching the end of another year. So it’s only natural to take stock of where we are. If you take the time to really think about it, I’m sure you’ll be surprised by all that you have accomplished in the many spheres of your life.
So take a moment now and jot down some ideas. What are the big milestones? What makes you smile? What are you most proud of? What surprises you? Of course, it’s not only what we do that matters. Or how we think or feel, though these are important too. It’s how we have changed that informs us of where to place our attention next. What have you learned during this journey? What are you most grateful for? What has been integrated? What forms the basis of the new you? We are always a work in progress and in that spirit, the destination matters little. Our journey enriches us along the way. Our experiences and attitudes impact the mind, body, heart and soul. And it’s this integrative process which forms the energetic foundation for what comes next. And what is that you ask? All kinds of possibilities! Exciting ones! When we look within at all aspects of our being and integrate the myriad pieces into a holistic picture, we deepen our awareness of who we really are. We create foundational strength. By embracing our wholeness, we set ourselves up for a meaningful life! In celebration, let me raise my glass to you. May the gifts in your life multiply with the treasures yet to come! Cheers! Life is a journey with many chapters, with ups and downs and turn-arounds. Many of us know moments of triumph and failure. And yet, to be engaged with our lives means being present for it all.
The thread of our life is us and inside of us lies great power. To transcend pain. To heal from within. To embrace our radiance. To create a life harmonically aligned with who we are. Let me tell you, I used to have a very different life. And then my world crumbled. But from the ashes came renewal. Because I decided to create a life of meaning, I am now on a resonant path. I got here because I was willing to do the hard work, to heal, and to go for what I truly valued. I know what it’s like to rebuild your life brick by brick and I can tell you that it is indeed possible to do so. In fact, I directly benefit from the choices I’ve made and what has emerged for me is a magical life. Yes, I said it. Life can be magical! What makes life magical is honoring who you really are, and embracing the light within. Then creating a life around that. It’s what makes life rich and meaningful. If you’ve been feeling like life is just the way it is, then I’d encourage you to be at conscious choice about that and choose that with full awareness. Feeling instead that life could be better? Change this dynamic now! Explore new horizons and reach beyond. You may say your life is already good. Wonderful! Now go the extra mile and find your extraordinary. We all deserve to love our life. Full wellness is a gift we can offer ourselves. And why not? We are not meant to stay stuck, hiding our gifts from the world. We are meant to be free! To express ourselves. To transform and transcend. To explore All Possibility. To be who we’re meant to be. You can do it too... with passion, purpose and aliveness! You deserve to love your life! I’m outside in the garden, flowers everywhere, and I’m noticing this new Wisteria plant that has broken through the rocky cracked earth, already bushy and boasting green leaves. Next to it is another Wisteria, a new one we planted, held high by the fence and cradled in sunlight – save for some chewed up leaves, this plant is tall and expansive, but also a bit underwhelming. I can’t see it has grown very much all summer, as compared to the newbie standing without support, new branches reaching for the sky. What’s the difference, really, between these two? Why is the one growing amidst the rocks doing so much better than the one planted with love and care? As it turns out, this new vine isn’t so new. A few months ago, due to some structural safety concerns, the backyard was landscaped and the Wisteria we loved was removed. Or so we thought, for here we are, many moons later and it has resurfaced again, unsolicited, but welcome – a rebirth. Somehow, it found a way. Because it has a strong foundation, because it has roots. Someone wise once said “there are only two lasting bequests we can hope to give our children. One of these is roots, the other, wings.” Indeed, so very true… with a strong foundation, we SOAR! And yet, how often do we really let ourselves fly high? Often we operate from the automatic - we are led in life by circumstance. Like a leaf twirling in the wind or cascading down a stream, we follow the path of least resistance to futures unknown. To build something of true meaning, a more empowering place to operate from is your roots, for these provide your foundation. Your foundation starts with understanding who you are. How do you take in information and make decisions? How do you interact with the outside world or generate your own energy? What are the building blocks that form your personality? What are your strengths and interests? What are your values and purpose? What inner gremlins or empowering archetypes live within you? What is your spiritual or personal growth path? What is your operating life philosophy? All these questions and more can be answered with deep reflection and actions taken. Coaching can also be a supportive lifestyle choice that makes life more empowering. Find out your why for being here. Own your roots so you can grow and thrive! Go for anything you want! Because from this place, you can go out and try new things. And if whatever you try doesn’t work out, you can always return to your roots, to what made you strong, so you can bounce back. Instead of simply responding or reacting, you can have a say about how to live your life. The thing about roots is they remain unseen. For those witnessing the blossoming of your magnificence, they may wonder how you make it seem so easy. It may seem kind of magical, but you will know better. By tapping into your roots, you can access all your inner resources and power, reflect on life, learn and grow. And you too can reach for the sky. You too can SOAR! Beep Beep! Vroom, vroom! Screeech! Zoom! That’s the sound of my son and I playing with toy cars together. Such a blast to invent new stories about where we’ve been and where we’re going. So easy too, because cars permeate our culture and impact our lives every day.
Let’s use our imaginations and have a little fun. Think of a car, any car. Pick a color and design it the way you want it to be. Now be in this car. That’s right. Imagine you are inside the car that you have created. Picture this. The road ahead of you is your life, the passing landscape your experiences. You’re in control of what happens to you. You can shift gears, accelerate or break, turn here or there, or glance at the rear view to reflect. Many possibilities await you wherever you are going! Take in this metaphor as one for your journey. How are you choosing to experience it? As a passenger? Maybe a co-pilot, influencing the path ahead? Are you in the back seat watching what happens without any sense of power? If you’re in the trunk, what’s that feeling like? Why not just be the driver? You get to decide where to go and what to pursue. You get to choose how to experience life. Your way. With reflection, you may start wondering if there’s anybody else in the car with you. Look around, see who’s here. Where are they seated? What seems to be their role? A car can get pretty full. Soliciting the opinion and support of others is perfectly fine of course. Just notice what is being traded for in the process and ask yourself if that’s acceptable to you. Because you can make changes anytime. What role do you want to play in the creation of your life? And if you’re not playing that role now, what needs to change? We have so much personal power. Our ability to influence what happens to us and how we react comes from taking ownership and embracing ourselves as the driving force in our lives. Where do you want to go? You decide. Your journey is calling… VROOOM!! The magic I feel when I hike is without parallel. There is something so simple about putting one foot in front of the other, in pursuit of the goal. Fortunate to live on land touching the Pacific, a mountainous region with many peaks and valleys, I often enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay area. I have discovered many local trails with friends with whom we share this passion to explore and discover. More than just talking on the trails, we exchange ideas and build relationships for a lifetime.
We are together and yet we are also alone. For only I can overcome the challenge. No one will carry me when I get tired or my feet hurt. No one else can do the walking for me. And yet, I am sustained because nature, friendship, and challenges overcome nurture me throughout. The journey is what calls me forward, the inspiring vision of what could be, and the enjoyment of what is. Without that, I wouldn’t be so rich with memories today, of cascading waterfalls and contemplative cows, of forested landscapes and epic views. Most importantly, I know I can meet the challenge because I am dedicated, perseverant, focused, and unwavering in my belief that I can do it. We all can have a powerful vision for our life. The key is to make it happen. I have learned that the best way for me to achieve my longings is with preparation and an eye towards potential. In a very real way, I know I need tools. For a hike, that could mean good shoes, layers, a map, snacks and water. For life, that could mean building a solid foundation based on my values and purpose, with some meditation tools for when the road gets dark. In both cases, I need to believe in the possibilities of dynamic outcomes, that potential can come from my hard work. I also need to be open to learn, to adapt and change, to revise and adjust, to maintain then reach. I must be steadfast in my approach. When you find your vision, your mountain to climb, know that you too can do it. You can make it happen. For sure, there may be obstacles and challenges along the way, but once you figure out your way, you can do it again and again, bringing even more gifts of abundance into your life. We’re all on a path. The first step is to chart a course that inspires you to reach for new heights. Then, GO FOR IT! I want to share a quote with you, one that has inspired me over many years. Author Marianne Williamson once said:
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others." Sometimes, we shy away from our greatness because we don't want the other important people in our life to feel bad about themselves, that depriving ourselves of what lights us up will somehow make things better. In fact, the opposite is true. Live life full out, give in to your wildest dreams, and step into your light! I often marvel at what we are, this world we live in. Life. We are all on this one planet, at this time, together. People. Animals. Nature. What can we learn from this common journey?
That we are here at all is a magnificent gift! We get to live yes, but if given the chance, we also get to thrive! We have this wonderful opportunity to go for what really matters, to inspire and be inspired and to make a difference! And yet, are we taking full advantage? In the world today is a lot of strife, conflict and division. We are facing many challenges. We can do better. Our potential demands it. I believe that we are here at this time to come together, setting aside differences to honor our common humanity, collective growth and individual healing, in service to the greatest good. We’re here to love and help each other and to make the world a better place for everyone. Because who we are and what we do in this world matters. Working together is a mindset. People love and care for each other already so why not expand on that foundation to include respect, understanding and acceptance of others? More to the point, we must take action. Whether the focus is your life or the greater good, positive change comes through action. If you have an idea, if you have a passion, if you have any inkling at all about doing something that’s meaningful to you, do it. Turn your passions into action! To make the world a better place, we must get off the sidelines and engage. Make a difference. Small. Big. Seen. Unseen. A conversation. A project. A dream. Remind the people around you how much you care about them. Time to connect to that deeper humanity that unites us all. Have an intention and make an impact! You really can make a difference. We all can. My son is graduating from babyhood. He’s a little boy now. Reflecting on his sweet journey fills me with such love and gratitude.
A growing child experiences many chapters in life. Their transformation is quite significant. As just a baby, they learn to eat and poop, to crawl, walk, and climb, to make sounds and words, and fall off to sleep. All of this change is encouraged, embraced and enjoyed. Babies do all these wonderful things because of their ability to observe their surroundings and absorb like a sponge, to open their hearts to the magic of the moment and to surprise us always with their smile, laughter and generosity. They teach us so much! And along the way, we can be gracefully reminded of our own personal journeys and what we've learned, and how it has affected our physical, mental, spiritual and emotional well-being. If we were to follow our very own example of how we approached the world as a child, we would thrive! Somehow we lose that focus as we age. We kind of forget about what it means to celebrate the inner child and indulge in new knowledge, experience and insights without judgment. How good it feels to be learning something new, to be challenged and to overcome! We never stop growing. We learn throughout our lives. The key is to be at conscious choice and to go learn something that makes us truly excited and engaged with the world, and to share with others. I want to invite you now to connect to your inner child. Take a moment, look within and ask what new discovery or adventure is calling you. Be open and think about all the possibilities! Let your inner child come out and play and amaze again at the world anew. |
coach dylan
When we engage with our potential, when we live our purpose, when we honor our wholeness, we heal from within and create a more just and harmonious world. Archives
March 2021
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