Why do we celebrate April Fools Day?
Truth is we really don't know where the tradition of playing pranks on people came from.
There are a few theories floating around though.
# When the western world used the Julian calendar, the year began on March 25th because they celebrated the start of a new year with the start of spring. However since that fell in the Holy Week, the celebrated it on the first of April. However when we switched to the Gregorian calendar in the 1500s, we moved the New Year to the first of January. According to the most widely told story, those who still celebrated the New Year on April 1st were called April fools.
# The Encyclopedia of Religion and the Encyclopedia Britannica thinks that the timing of April Fool's Day is directly related to the arrival of Spring, when nature 'fools' humans with erratic weather.
# The Country Diary of Garden Lore has a theory that April Fools Day commemorates "the fruitless mission of the rook (the European crow) who was sent out in search of land from Noah's flood-surrounded ark."
So, on April 1st are you going to be the tricked or the trickster?
Friday, March 30, 2007
Pursuit of Happiness (Don't we all?)
First off let me talk about the movie... WOW.. I mean Will Smith in this Deep of a Drama! Well he pulled it off, It pulled on all the emotions and heart strings! Well done!
Now, onto the issues... The wall. Yes, some of us have been there, some are there now to some degree. What happens when you hit the Wall?
Ok, some may not know what I"m talking about when I say the wall so let me back up. If you don't know what it is then chances are you've never been there! Lucky You! Be happy your life is at such a good pace. But others know, have either been there or known someone who was. This is when you have had one thing after another go wrong. When and 'unlucky' streak takes a life of its own.And your pushed to the end, the end of your ideas, the end of your ropes, and for some unfortunate souls the end of their lives.
So what do you do? In this movie, He stood up, he chose throughout it all no matter the sacrifices he had to make he was going to pull through.. A very good attitude to have, but was he off the wall from making that decision? NO he wasn't.. He kept running back into it. IN this movie, he lost his wife he lost his apartment, then his motel, He was forced to sleep in a shelter with his son.. Never being able to catch a break. He was lucky to have gotten an 'internship' but with no pay he was left to his own resources to provide, and not much time to do it.. Well isn't that just life! As sad as it is, This is why there are so many who fall in the cracks..
Sure some look at the homeless and say, well they chose to live that way.. Did they? Do you really think they woke up one day and said 'gee, I think I'll live on the street and beg for money'. Or was it a series of events that put them there. Well they came to the Wall.....................but they crawled up and gave up.
You can do one of two things when you hit that wall.. YOu can give up or you can get up!
I've been to the wall, me and my husband quiet a few times.. We have started over our life many times, even with children we have hit the wall.. But we are strong, we leaned on each other. We Chose that no matter what we were not giving up, we were not giving in.
Now, we are far from that wall, granted we know what many don't, that everyone is a day, an hour, a moment away from that wall. ONE, major shift, or event can change your life in series of ways that will leave you speechless. For us it was getting hit by a Semi, We lived on the road we were travelers by birth and by trade. Our truck our trailer, everything was lost. Everything but our lives.. We walked away from a head on collision with a Semi.. our daughter was in a body cast I had a broken arm My husband protected by what could only be a guardian came out with no sever injuries (and it was his side hit). Oh Did I mention we only had 800 to our name which somehow was 'lost' in the accident?
Not coming from a typical family we had no outside help. We were in a town away from anyone we knew, had no money to get out.. but we managed.. We pulled ourself up and out. How.. Sheer determination.. We hit the wall several times that year.. But eventually we climbed out. Two years of struggle living day to day we were on our feet again. So many times did we hit that wall, so many times we could have given up.. But what would have happened to our daughter, our son (I was 8mo preg. when the wreck occurred).
Pursuit of Happiness.... We all have it! We all need it, desire it, but how many times do you offer your hand to help someone else reach it?
Not something I really thought of years ago, but now.. Everyday, just about.. I do something, even if it may seem small to most I do something to help someone. Because you never know when the encouraging word, the hot meal, the shower, the whatever you give, may help someone find hope, and courage, to climb and stand up again.
I'm not saying you should kill yourself feeding the hungry or going out of your way to shelter a homeless person.. but contribute.. if not by money by time.. by encouraging.. If there is a position in your company, don't just look to professionals.. you never know who may have skills. Just because they don't have a steady address when they apply doesn't mean they don't want one! Just because their clothes are not up to date doesn't mean they like that. Most do what they can with what they have.. so just I guess, Give someone a break, give someone the benefit of the doubt.. and remember, We are all One step away! Think About IT!
Now, onto the issues... The wall. Yes, some of us have been there, some are there now to some degree. What happens when you hit the Wall?
Ok, some may not know what I"m talking about when I say the wall so let me back up. If you don't know what it is then chances are you've never been there! Lucky You! Be happy your life is at such a good pace. But others know, have either been there or known someone who was. This is when you have had one thing after another go wrong. When and 'unlucky' streak takes a life of its own.And your pushed to the end, the end of your ideas, the end of your ropes, and for some unfortunate souls the end of their lives.
So what do you do? In this movie, He stood up, he chose throughout it all no matter the sacrifices he had to make he was going to pull through.. A very good attitude to have, but was he off the wall from making that decision? NO he wasn't.. He kept running back into it. IN this movie, he lost his wife he lost his apartment, then his motel, He was forced to sleep in a shelter with his son.. Never being able to catch a break. He was lucky to have gotten an 'internship' but with no pay he was left to his own resources to provide, and not much time to do it.. Well isn't that just life! As sad as it is, This is why there are so many who fall in the cracks..
Sure some look at the homeless and say, well they chose to live that way.. Did they? Do you really think they woke up one day and said 'gee, I think I'll live on the street and beg for money'. Or was it a series of events that put them there. Well they came to the Wall.....................but they crawled up and gave up.
You can do one of two things when you hit that wall.. YOu can give up or you can get up!
I've been to the wall, me and my husband quiet a few times.. We have started over our life many times, even with children we have hit the wall.. But we are strong, we leaned on each other. We Chose that no matter what we were not giving up, we were not giving in.
Now, we are far from that wall, granted we know what many don't, that everyone is a day, an hour, a moment away from that wall. ONE, major shift, or event can change your life in series of ways that will leave you speechless. For us it was getting hit by a Semi, We lived on the road we were travelers by birth and by trade. Our truck our trailer, everything was lost. Everything but our lives.. We walked away from a head on collision with a Semi.. our daughter was in a body cast I had a broken arm My husband protected by what could only be a guardian came out with no sever injuries (and it was his side hit). Oh Did I mention we only had 800 to our name which somehow was 'lost' in the accident?
Not coming from a typical family we had no outside help. We were in a town away from anyone we knew, had no money to get out.. but we managed.. We pulled ourself up and out. How.. Sheer determination.. We hit the wall several times that year.. But eventually we climbed out. Two years of struggle living day to day we were on our feet again. So many times did we hit that wall, so many times we could have given up.. But what would have happened to our daughter, our son (I was 8mo preg. when the wreck occurred).
Pursuit of Happiness.... We all have it! We all need it, desire it, but how many times do you offer your hand to help someone else reach it?
Not something I really thought of years ago, but now.. Everyday, just about.. I do something, even if it may seem small to most I do something to help someone. Because you never know when the encouraging word, the hot meal, the shower, the whatever you give, may help someone find hope, and courage, to climb and stand up again.
I'm not saying you should kill yourself feeding the hungry or going out of your way to shelter a homeless person.. but contribute.. if not by money by time.. by encouraging.. If there is a position in your company, don't just look to professionals.. you never know who may have skills. Just because they don't have a steady address when they apply doesn't mean they don't want one! Just because their clothes are not up to date doesn't mean they like that. Most do what they can with what they have.. so just I guess, Give someone a break, give someone the benefit of the doubt.. and remember, We are all One step away! Think About IT!
Thursday, March 29, 2007
YOU Time!!
This was sent to me by a dear friend, one who reminds me sometimes.. that in all I do I have to take care of myself too! Thank you Randi!
Your Most Vital Commitment
Finding Time For You
Within each of there is a well of energy that must be regularly replenished. When we act as if this well is bottomless, scheduling a long list of activities that fit like puzzle pieces into every minute of every day, it becomes depleted and we feel exhausted, disconnected, and weak. Refilling this well is a matter of finding time to focus on, nurture, and care for ourselves, or "you time." Most of us are, at different times throughout the day, a spouse, a friend, a relative, an employee, a parent, or a volunteer, which means that down time, however relaxing in nature, is not necessarily "you time." Though some people will inevitably look upon "you time" as being selfish, it is actually the polar opposite of selfishness. We can only excel where our outer world affairs are concerned when our own spiritual, physical, and intellectual needs are fulfilled.
Recognizing the importance of "you time" is far easier than finding a place for it in an active, multifaceted lifestyle, however. Even if you find a spot for it in your agenda, you may be dismayed to discover that your thoughts continuously stray into worldly territory. To make the most of "you time," give yourself enough time on either side of the block of time you plan to spend on yourself to ensure that you do not feel rushed. Consider how you would like to pass the time, forgetting for the moment your obligations and embracing the notion of renewal. You may discover that you are energized by creative pursuits, guided meditation, relaxing activities during which your mind can wander, or modes of expression such as writing.
Even if you have achieved a functioning work-life balance, you may still be neglecting the most important part of that equation: you. "You time" prepares you for the next round of daily life, whether you are poised to immerse yourself in a professional project or chores around the home. It also affords you a unique opportunity to learn about yourself, your needs, and your tolerances in a concrete way. As unimportant as "you time" can sometimes seem, it truly is crucial to your wellbeing because it ensures that you are never left without the energy to give of yourself.
Your Most Vital Commitment
Finding Time For You
Within each of there is a well of energy that must be regularly replenished. When we act as if this well is bottomless, scheduling a long list of activities that fit like puzzle pieces into every minute of every day, it becomes depleted and we feel exhausted, disconnected, and weak. Refilling this well is a matter of finding time to focus on, nurture, and care for ourselves, or "you time." Most of us are, at different times throughout the day, a spouse, a friend, a relative, an employee, a parent, or a volunteer, which means that down time, however relaxing in nature, is not necessarily "you time." Though some people will inevitably look upon "you time" as being selfish, it is actually the polar opposite of selfishness. We can only excel where our outer world affairs are concerned when our own spiritual, physical, and intellectual needs are fulfilled.
Recognizing the importance of "you time" is far easier than finding a place for it in an active, multifaceted lifestyle, however. Even if you find a spot for it in your agenda, you may be dismayed to discover that your thoughts continuously stray into worldly territory. To make the most of "you time," give yourself enough time on either side of the block of time you plan to spend on yourself to ensure that you do not feel rushed. Consider how you would like to pass the time, forgetting for the moment your obligations and embracing the notion of renewal. You may discover that you are energized by creative pursuits, guided meditation, relaxing activities during which your mind can wander, or modes of expression such as writing.
Even if you have achieved a functioning work-life balance, you may still be neglecting the most important part of that equation: you. "You time" prepares you for the next round of daily life, whether you are poised to immerse yourself in a professional project or chores around the home. It also affords you a unique opportunity to learn about yourself, your needs, and your tolerances in a concrete way. As unimportant as "you time" can sometimes seem, it truly is crucial to your wellbeing because it ensures that you are never left without the energy to give of yourself.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
How to keep your spirit up despite the daily headlines.
Excerpted from "Everyday Grace," published by Riverhead Books.
It is a spiritual challenge to hear the news and still keep your faith.
Surrounded by terrible news, we are tempted to feel powerless before the strength of darkness. And yet we are not powerless, for we are children of an infinitely wealthy father who has shared with us the prosperity of His kingdom. Our primary task is to remember that it's ours. Through God, we have the power to use our spiritual resources to banish all darkness -- to transform our world from a state of limitation and fear to a state of abundance and love. For the world is a reflection of humanity's collective consciousness, and each of us has access to the collective through the auspices of our own mind.
Viewing life through the eyes of the world, we learn about a world that is; viewing life through the eyes of spirit, we learn about a world that could be. It is a law of consciousness that what we think about expands: Our focus amounts to a mental endorsement of the world view that keeps the object of our focus in place. In order to change the world, we must change the mental lens through which we view it.
Think of the news as humanity's prayer list. How different the world would be if every day's newspaper reports were met with prayers for healing from its readers! And that will happen, when the modern mind realizes the power of spirit. Prayer itself will emerge from the constricting limitations of religious doctrine, to become a spontaneous call of the soul to the higher power from whence we came. Having claimed the dimension of power that spiritual wisdom provides, we will energetically engage in the process of creating a new civilization. We will no longer stand powerless before the so-called strength of illusion and fear; once we realize our spiritual power, we will assume it to its full degree. For through God, we have the power of the sun and the moon and the stars at our command....
It is a spiritual challenge to hear the news and still keep your faith.
Surrounded by terrible news, we are tempted to feel powerless before the strength of darkness. And yet we are not powerless, for we are children of an infinitely wealthy father who has shared with us the prosperity of His kingdom. Our primary task is to remember that it's ours. Through God, we have the power to use our spiritual resources to banish all darkness -- to transform our world from a state of limitation and fear to a state of abundance and love. For the world is a reflection of humanity's collective consciousness, and each of us has access to the collective through the auspices of our own mind.
Viewing life through the eyes of the world, we learn about a world that is; viewing life through the eyes of spirit, we learn about a world that could be. It is a law of consciousness that what we think about expands: Our focus amounts to a mental endorsement of the world view that keeps the object of our focus in place. In order to change the world, we must change the mental lens through which we view it.
Think of the news as humanity's prayer list. How different the world would be if every day's newspaper reports were met with prayers for healing from its readers! And that will happen, when the modern mind realizes the power of spirit. Prayer itself will emerge from the constricting limitations of religious doctrine, to become a spontaneous call of the soul to the higher power from whence we came. Having claimed the dimension of power that spiritual wisdom provides, we will energetically engage in the process of creating a new civilization. We will no longer stand powerless before the so-called strength of illusion and fear; once we realize our spiritual power, we will assume it to its full degree. For through God, we have the power of the sun and the moon and the stars at our command....
Listen to Your Soul
Listen to your Soul
Soul energy, which is the motivation of our whole essence, is what we should be
aware of as we journey through life. The knowing that we open up to whilst stilling our minds shows us our true path. It can be linked into through meditation and if we make that a part of our everyday life the soul will lead us down the right path for each of us as we all have our individual road to travel.
The twist and turns that occur in our lives are there for a reason and by tuning into
our soul knowing they become apparent. If we stand back and view our lives from an
outsider’s perspective everything becomes clearer. Achieving the discipline to meditate is the first step to gaining a more peaceful and contented life whilst inthe human form.
Meditating and emptying the mind of all our emotional needs clears the debris, which
bogs us down. Once experienced it gives us the incentive to learn more about ourselves as a spiritual being. It does not make us perfect for what is perfection? That again is an individual and personal concept. To become more involved and aware of our own souls journey is what matters. If we concede to the theory that we all have a purpose and reason for being here then the responsibility for finding that lays at our own feet. As the knowing becomes more apparent by listening to our soul, the journey that we have chosen also becomes clearer. It is not something that happens overnight but there is no turning back once experienced as our lives become more fulfilled in the knowing of where we are and where we are going.
The aspect of looking at ourselves as we really are and not who we think we are, is
quite daunting and whilst our minds are in control not easy to accept. We all have so
many questions that seem unanswerable, but know that the soul has the answers.
Taking control of our lives through the soul energy is the first step to learning about our spiritual oneness. Shutting down the mind for a period of time whilst meditating shows us a much deeper and profound way of living our lives.
Each person is at his or her own phase of knowing so we cannot expect to be in tune
at each step we take. Once again that is a personal thing, we cannot intrude on others souls knowing but hopefully we can become more understanding to the different stages their souls are at. The soul realisation opens us up to the spiritual now, and we should not be concerned with the past or the future as time is only a human perception.
Fear is an emotional experience and a barrier that can stop us from becoming
enlightened, as we tend to believe it is only for the chosen few. We are all capable of spiritual growth and the soul awareness. Ego is another characteristic that blocks our spirituality, To rid ourselves of the negativity that we seem to hold on to in our lives,which in fact is caused through fear and ego takes us that one step further on our soul journey. The soul is not bogged down with any emotional trauma, it is the mind that coverts and feeds off all our emotions.
To become one with your true essence is the gateway to your soul’s journey of
awakening.
Soul energy, which is the motivation of our whole essence, is what we should be
aware of as we journey through life. The knowing that we open up to whilst stilling our minds shows us our true path. It can be linked into through meditation and if we make that a part of our everyday life the soul will lead us down the right path for each of us as we all have our individual road to travel.
The twist and turns that occur in our lives are there for a reason and by tuning into
our soul knowing they become apparent. If we stand back and view our lives from an
outsider’s perspective everything becomes clearer. Achieving the discipline to meditate is the first step to gaining a more peaceful and contented life whilst inthe human form.
Meditating and emptying the mind of all our emotional needs clears the debris, which
bogs us down. Once experienced it gives us the incentive to learn more about ourselves as a spiritual being. It does not make us perfect for what is perfection? That again is an individual and personal concept. To become more involved and aware of our own souls journey is what matters. If we concede to the theory that we all have a purpose and reason for being here then the responsibility for finding that lays at our own feet. As the knowing becomes more apparent by listening to our soul, the journey that we have chosen also becomes clearer. It is not something that happens overnight but there is no turning back once experienced as our lives become more fulfilled in the knowing of where we are and where we are going.
The aspect of looking at ourselves as we really are and not who we think we are, is
quite daunting and whilst our minds are in control not easy to accept. We all have so
many questions that seem unanswerable, but know that the soul has the answers.
Taking control of our lives through the soul energy is the first step to learning about our spiritual oneness. Shutting down the mind for a period of time whilst meditating shows us a much deeper and profound way of living our lives.
Each person is at his or her own phase of knowing so we cannot expect to be in tune
at each step we take. Once again that is a personal thing, we cannot intrude on others souls knowing but hopefully we can become more understanding to the different stages their souls are at. The soul realisation opens us up to the spiritual now, and we should not be concerned with the past or the future as time is only a human perception.
Fear is an emotional experience and a barrier that can stop us from becoming
enlightened, as we tend to believe it is only for the chosen few. We are all capable of spiritual growth and the soul awareness. Ego is another characteristic that blocks our spirituality, To rid ourselves of the negativity that we seem to hold on to in our lives,which in fact is caused through fear and ego takes us that one step further on our soul journey. The soul is not bogged down with any emotional trauma, it is the mind that coverts and feeds off all our emotions.
To become one with your true essence is the gateway to your soul’s journey of
awakening.
You Have a Gift
It has been said that everyone has something to give. Something that can be shared with their fellow human beings over and over again. Something whose supply is never depleated, but constantly replenished as it is given away.
And it costs nothing to give.
What could that be? Remember that you must phrase your answer in the form of a question.
I hope you all got it. It’s as simple as falling off a log.
It is a SMILE.
Did you know there are fewer facial muscles used with less energy expended in the formation of a smile than there is in the forcing of a frown?
A warm, sincere smile, genuinely shared almost always results in the spontaneous eruption of more smiles in it’s immediate surroundings.
Once given, smiles can travel for miles and miles without significant interruption.
And smiles con even be passed along while sight unseen, through the sharing of heart-felt thoughts and wishes by various media.
A smile is a very powerful tool with a very powerful effect. Realize fully that power within you. Realize fully the force for good that you hold within you that you may share at will as often and generously as you choose.
The choice is yours. And you often receive in return more than you could ever hope to give!
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