There are times when I wish the Universe would go just a little faster. People tell me that the Universe, the Depth, the Sacred provides what we need when we need it. They encourage people to be open and patient, and the path will become clear to them. I believe that myself. I encourage people to take time to reflect, to be contemplative. I have come to recognize the deep calm within me. I have begun to appreciate the value... Read more

While checking to see what was happening on Instragram the other day, I read a post that quoted “Always Remember, Your Focus Determines Your Reality.” While not everything turns out well for the character to whom these words were spoken, they got me thinking.  They became part of my focus, shaping my reality. I am able to focus well. Focus is one of the qualities that strengthens my listening. Focus helps me turn values and vision into practical steps toward... Read more

I am not a particularly deep thinker. For a long time I lived asleep to myself, blanketed in layers of expectations and distractions. When I was finally open to listening, I started learning about contemplation. Contemplation is not about sitting still, thinking deep thoughts. For me, contemplation is a way to let go of all the thoughts, whether they are deep or not, that distract me from the Sacred presence and action. Contemplation is not about becoming more holy or... Read more

Some sorrow is shared. Some is so intensely personal that we know we are the only person who feels it, who carries its pain. Some losses are fleeting. Where did I put my keys? We will play again next week. Some loss is devastating; the loss of innocence, the loss of trust, the loss of what I loved most in the world. Our lives are shaped, and strengthened, by the sorrow and loss we experience. My deepest sorrow is so... Read more

I am a curious person. Lack of curiosity just seems to be boring, like being only half awake. The world offers so many amazing things; how could anyone not be curious? For a long time, my curiosity was skin deep. I skimmed along the surface, asked to gain information, then moved on to the next thing. Eventually I realized that there is more, under the surface. How do we begin, and sustain, deep curiosity? Three things are very helpful. Deep... Read more

When we say that someone gave their life for something, we usually mean a particular event. We think of a person sacrificing themselves to support a specific principle, or help specific people. Countries send young people into combat knowing that they may be giving their lives for their country. Law enforcement officers and firefighters may give their lives to protect us, even though they have never met us. When we talk about someone giving their life for someone or something,... Read more