Saturday, October 20, 2012

Things I Learned From... The Village Retirement Center Yogis

Love may end but it can always begin again.

Genuine care is felt by ways of words, hugs and the simple act of asking.

Learning never stops.

One can age with grace and humor.

Community embraces and welcomes all.

Hope in the future has no expiration.

Friday, October 19, 2012

Through the Eyes of a Child... Boat Pose


"Lift your heart." I say to Olivia while we're in Boat Pose.

She responds, "I'm going in the water."  After we capsized and regained our composure, we captured the shot to the right with our hearts lifted.

This story reminds me...
  • Have fun.
  • Don't take things so seriously.
  • Size doesn't matter.  
May you float with the current of today and enjoy the view.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

Celebrate the Color in Each Other


The convergence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers is the main attraction at one of my morning spots.  Before the sun made its debut for the day, it lit the sky with vibrant colors of orange, teal, yellow and blue.  Having pondered the decorative canopy throughout this fall, I was easily absorbed in the delight of color once again.  

To focus on one hue would not cast the same alluring image.  The beauty came to life in the play of colors.  I was reminded of my thoughts from years ago... Sometimes we need to step back and see the beauty of the forest instead of critiquing each tree.  

The reflection was not only about trees but each other and society.  Every day presents opportunities to focus on the ignorant, unintentional or annoying words or actions of others.  Lately, I have found myself in situations that I become unaware of the gifts each individual brings and focus on the "ick" instead.  This has cast a shadow on my ability to recognize the unique charm of each person and lowered my enjoyment and peace in life.  

Although it seemed the sun pulled me away from my morning intentions, the color meditation brought me back... I strive to see others as a colorful illustration of the divine.

I invite you to join me as I refocus.  Let's celebrate the color in each other.