Over the last nine months or so
I have made a commitment to myself
to write about things that are very important to me,
things that move me,
things that I question,
things that tickle my fancy,
things that make me who I am,
things that show who I am not . . .
and I chose to do most of it here in this space.
It gives me a sense of discipline and purpose,
although it is really scary.
For me,
that was a huge leap of faith.
Nothing I write
is meant to be a treatise of any kind,
a sermon or a lesson,
or an exercise in creativity.
It is all actually meant to be something to leave for my son
if he is interested some day.
We are not very close,
but I think he likes me,
at least.
In my relative isolation
I feel like I am becoming more invisible every day . . .
first it was my eyebrows,
then my lips,
and now that my hair is silver white,
the same.
If you are an older person and don’t believe me,
go to the gym for a few weeks
or walk into a Walmart or a large grocery store . . .
the young
don’t even see me.
They look over and around me towards their peers . . .
I am invisible
and don’t register in their young brains.
It was very startling when I first started to notice it.
I don’t want to be invisible to my son . . .
right now
he is fully engaged in his own cares and struggles,
but beginning to see that the road ahead
is not as long as he had always imagined,
and time for ‘making his mark’
is getting shorter . . .
more restrictive.
He also lives all the way across the country
and is firmly ensconced in the culture he has made for himself,
and has no desire to come east.
So this is what I am doing
as I dream of a day
when he might see
we are made of the same star stuff. ♥
Sparrow, I am so glad to hear that it sounds like you are saving your precious writings somewhere in addition to posting it here on this page. I hope that someday your son will see these and will really appreciate and connect with your powerful sharings. But even if he doesn’t, you are gifting all of us greatly.
I have been striking up conversations with young people when I go to town for a while now. Some times I am pleasantly surprised, others not so much. I have had some good conversations and some that felt like pulling nails out of a post. Bet they all remember the crazy old guy in a cowboy hat that spoke with them.
My leap of faith is trusting life- the universe and the method of letting go of my karma, habits and body. I’m so bad at trusting but I don’t have anything more to lose. I’m putting my trust into letting go of this false self and trusting the method.
I don’t think much about “leaps of faith.” I have become accepting of “baby steps” and as a person who has struggled with anxiety all my life, a baby step can sometimes seem monumental.
Doing a live performance of improv in front of a crowd of people who had paid to be there. Would we be good enough to make them laugh and have a good time? Would I be quick and generous so my fellow troupe members had something to work with? The answer to both was yes, and it was so fun! The next show that I’ll be on stage for is coming up Aug. 6 and I’ll leap again.
It feels a bit silly to admit, but I take a leap of faith every time I’m on an airplane. I put my life in God’s hands up there. It feels completely out of my control. And living in a country as vast as the U.S., I can’t avoid flying from place to place! The last time was Tuesday, 7/8, when I flew from CA back to MN. Wishing you all a safe trip this weekend! 🍀
Taking one now. A loved one is in end-stage cancer, and the situation is less than ideal to me. But to that person, it’s what works, and there’s some denial too (which also seems to work). I need to check my desire to intervene and just let it unfold.
Drea, the last part reminds me of my reading of “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind” by Shunryu Suzuki. He talked about how nonchalance is the worst policy. Overcare is a bad one. Observation is the best of all. As caring people, we want what’s best for others. It’s very tempting to step in and fix the situation when it only ends up making things worse.
I read that book years ago and had not remembered that point. That’s very helpful for someone I love who’s going through something tough. Thank you for this, Loc.
It had to be some time way before Ngoc went to Vietnam and California. It paid off during those 2 months. I ended up navigating backstage and family politics well. Even then, that has its limits. I already knew that towards the end, it was becoming more obvious that I had to work on integrity. I received care to do things more of my way. It’s another form of string-pulling, because it ties to agendas. Therefore, taking a leap of faith not only paid off during that moment but gave me clarrity on what I need to improve upon for next time knowing that Ngoc will go to Vietnam for 4-6 weeks in the summer to visit her side of the family likely every year.
I’m a planner by nature, but I’ve taken many chances. Sometimes I like to think “well, I’ll try this out and see what happens”. As long as the outcomes aren’t too permanent, why not give something a try? I also feel like every day is a leap of faith. Every time I walk out the door. Like that sign that I drive by that says “for we walk by faith, not by sight” and I always think with a smile “but it helps to look where you’re going”. 😁
I was very skeptical starting a new relationship with my current partner. But I took the leap of faith and have been Allowing myself to be loved and cared, I never knew this type of genuine and sweet and kind love existed. And for that, I am grateful. 🧡
When I called the owner of a corporate wellness company based in the area I live. While I have faith in my ability to share yoga, I haven’t interviewed for a job in years. I was confident and trusted that whatever was meant to be would be. And now I’m teaching around the city for her company!
I do have to mention, without the leap of faith my husband & I took together last fall, I’m not sure any of this would be happening. Moving twice in a short period of time was not fun, but I’m so glad that we trusted the path unfolding in front of us.
Thank you! I’ve been teaching at the studio I work at (checking students in) since May, but getting to travel around the city, learn new places and meet even more people is really fun! Plus, it’s nice to be making a little money again 🙂
Last August I started an email inquiry with a group of modern day spiritual non canonical ecumenical sisters. They’re also international tho I’m staying here in MN for the time being. Non canonical means there’s no structured motherhouse, and one is financially responsible for one’s self. One works as they’re able, being of service to others. I’ve met some online and will meet more in upcoming weeks. Big Leap of faith, Trusting the God of my Understanding to continue leading me. Have a Blessed weekend all🌻
Name is listed below responding to YRAM. They are Christian based, the ecumenical lens provides an open door. Started in 1970’s as response to Vatican II.
Right now. Things at least in my personal circumstances but may be as well for many might change a lot in the near future, which might need faith that things will turn out well for all concerned. So I will approach it with faith and hope, this is all I can do for the moment being, being aware of fear also but in the same time not limited to it. Prayers for the good outcome for all would be dearly appreciated. Wishing a beautiful day to all who share and who visit here.
Dear Ose, sending you loving kindness and hugs . I don’t know what is happening, but I hope you are able to let go of worry about the future. It’s not easy I know . Thanks for being here with us.
Powerful and wise words: “So I will approach it with faith and hope, this is all I can do for the moment being, being aware of fear also but in the same time not limited to it. “
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Over the last nine months or so
I have made a commitment to myself
to write about things that are very important to me,
things that move me,
things that I question,
things that tickle my fancy,
things that make me who I am,
things that show who I am not . . .
and I chose to do most of it here in this space.
It gives me a sense of discipline and purpose,
although it is really scary.
For me,
that was a huge leap of faith.
Nothing I write
is meant to be a treatise of any kind,
a sermon or a lesson,
or an exercise in creativity.
It is all actually meant to be something to leave for my son
if he is interested some day.
We are not very close,
but I think he likes me,
at least.
In my relative isolation
I feel like I am becoming more invisible every day . . .
first it was my eyebrows,
then my lips,
and now that my hair is silver white,
the same.
If you are an older person and don’t believe me,
go to the gym for a few weeks
or walk into a Walmart or a large grocery store . . .
the young
don’t even see me.
They look over and around me towards their peers . . .
I am invisible
and don’t register in their young brains.
It was very startling when I first started to notice it.
I don’t want to be invisible to my son . . .
right now
he is fully engaged in his own cares and struggles,
but beginning to see that the road ahead
is not as long as he had always imagined,
and time for ‘making his mark’
is getting shorter . . .
more restrictive.
He also lives all the way across the country
and is firmly ensconced in the culture he has made for himself,
and has no desire to come east.
So this is what I am doing
as I dream of a day
when he might see
we are made of the same star stuff. ♥
Sparrow, I am so glad to hear that it sounds like you are saving your precious writings somewhere in addition to posting it here on this page. I hope that someday your son will see these and will really appreciate and connect with your powerful sharings. But even if he doesn’t, you are gifting all of us greatly.
Thank you,
dear Elizabeth,
for your support of my efforts . . .
it means a lot to me
(really).
I miss being closer with my son,
but am grateful that he speaks to me at all. ♥
I have been striking up conversations with young people when I go to town for a while now. Some times I am pleasantly surprised, others not so much. I have had some good conversations and some that felt like pulling nails out of a post. Bet they all remember the crazy old guy in a cowboy hat that spoke with them.
Thank you for the full-throated laughter,
dear Joseph . . . 🙂
My leap of faith is trusting life- the universe and the method of letting go of my karma, habits and body. I’m so bad at trusting but I don’t have anything more to lose. I’m putting my trust into letting go of this false self and trusting the method.
I don’t think much about “leaps of faith.” I have become accepting of “baby steps” and as a person who has struggled with anxiety all my life, a baby step can sometimes seem monumental.
I feel you,
dear Carol . . .
I think much of my life has been lived
in baby steps,
especially the later years . . . ♥
Doing a live performance of improv in front of a crowd of people who had paid to be there. Would we be good enough to make them laugh and have a good time? Would I be quick and generous so my fellow troupe members had something to work with? The answer to both was yes, and it was so fun! The next show that I’ll be on stage for is coming up Aug. 6 and I’ll leap again.
This is great. On America’s got talent a 83 year gave a very funny improv. What the world needs now is …..humor and laughter.
It feels a bit silly to admit, but I take a leap of faith every time I’m on an airplane. I put my life in God’s hands up there. It feels completely out of my control. And living in a country as vast as the U.S., I can’t avoid flying from place to place! The last time was Tuesday, 7/8, when I flew from CA back to MN. Wishing you all a safe trip this weekend! 🍀
Oh my goodness are you from MN ? I used to live there . 😊
It’s not silly at all,
dear Ngoc . . .
it is impossible to imagine a vehicle
that weighs over 100 tons,
can fly through the air . . . ♥
I feel that way whenever I get on an airplane, as well, Ngoc ♥️
My Ngoc, I don’t think it’s a silly answer at all. There have been many plane crashes this year.
It seems like everyday I take a leap. The best laid plans are often disrupted.
YRAM, I often say to myself, “The best laid plans of mice and women!” I totally relate to your comment.
Good answer, Yram. Spontaneity is natural.
Taking one now. A loved one is in end-stage cancer, and the situation is less than ideal to me. But to that person, it’s what works, and there’s some denial too (which also seems to work). I need to check my desire to intervene and just let it unfold.
Loving kindness to you and your loved one.
Thank you Michele.
❤️🌱🙏
Thank you Joseph.
Dear Drea , sending loving kindness to you both.
Thank you Antoinette.
My heart is with you,
dear Drea . . . ♥
Thank you Sparrow.
♥️🙏🏼
Thank you Claire Jay.
Sending love to you and your loved one ♥️
Thank you Elizabeth.
Drea, the last part reminds me of my reading of “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind” by Shunryu Suzuki. He talked about how nonchalance is the worst policy. Overcare is a bad one. Observation is the best of all. As caring people, we want what’s best for others. It’s very tempting to step in and fix the situation when it only ends up making things worse.
I read that book years ago and had not remembered that point. That’s very helpful for someone I love who’s going through something tough. Thank you for this, Loc.
Thank you Loc, that’s helpful.
No problem, Drea. Always happy to help.
It had to be some time way before Ngoc went to Vietnam and California. It paid off during those 2 months. I ended up navigating backstage and family politics well. Even then, that has its limits. I already knew that towards the end, it was becoming more obvious that I had to work on integrity. I received care to do things more of my way. It’s another form of string-pulling, because it ties to agendas. Therefore, taking a leap of faith not only paid off during that moment but gave me clarrity on what I need to improve upon for next time knowing that Ngoc will go to Vietnam for 4-6 weeks in the summer to visit her side of the family likely every year.
I’m a planner by nature, but I’ve taken many chances. Sometimes I like to think “well, I’ll try this out and see what happens”. As long as the outcomes aren’t too permanent, why not give something a try? I also feel like every day is a leap of faith. Every time I walk out the door. Like that sign that I drive by that says “for we walk by faith, not by sight” and I always think with a smile “but it helps to look where you’re going”. 😁
No kidding Charlie. Thanks for the chuckle!
🙂
I was very skeptical starting a new relationship with my current partner. But I took the leap of faith and have been Allowing myself to be loved and cared, I never knew this type of genuine and sweet and kind love existed. And for that, I am grateful. 🧡
Congratulations Jenifer ! It’s not easy being o trust in new relationships.
When I called the owner of a corporate wellness company based in the area I live. While I have faith in my ability to share yoga, I haven’t interviewed for a job in years. I was confident and trusted that whatever was meant to be would be. And now I’m teaching around the city for her company!
I do have to mention, without the leap of faith my husband & I took together last fall, I’m not sure any of this would be happening. Moving twice in a short period of time was not fun, but I’m so glad that we trusted the path unfolding in front of us.
How cool SunnyPatti! What an adventure! Good luck with your new job as a yoga instructor!
Thank you! I’ve been teaching at the studio I work at (checking students in) since May, but getting to travel around the city, learn new places and meet even more people is really fun! Plus, it’s nice to be making a little money again 🙂
It has been awhile….
Happy Friday everyone 🙂
Great answer, Michele. No need to remember details. Letting go is the way to go.
Several years ago when I placed my trust in life and the universe with gratitude and acceptance.
Lovely Joseph ! 💓
Last August I started an email inquiry with a group of modern day spiritual non canonical ecumenical sisters. They’re also international tho I’m staying here in MN for the time being. Non canonical means there’s no structured motherhouse, and one is financially responsible for one’s self. One works as they’re able, being of service to others. I’ve met some online and will meet more in upcoming weeks. Big Leap of faith, Trusting the God of my Understanding to continue leading me. Have a Blessed weekend all🌻
Wow Carla ,are you living in MN? I died to live there !
Yearn you say sisters does this mean they are Christian or no religious affliction whatsoever?
Name is listed below responding to YRAM. They are Christian based, the ecumenical lens provides an open door. Started in 1970’s as response to Vatican II.
Would you send the groups name?
Community is Sisters For Christian Community (SFCC). Easy to put name in a search bar, as I don’t have web name near me. 😊
Right now. Things at least in my personal circumstances but may be as well for many might change a lot in the near future, which might need faith that things will turn out well for all concerned. So I will approach it with faith and hope, this is all I can do for the moment being, being aware of fear also but in the same time not limited to it. Prayers for the good outcome for all would be dearly appreciated. Wishing a beautiful day to all who share and who visit here.
Dear Ose, sending you loving kindness and hugs . I don’t know what is happening, but I hope you are able to let go of worry about the future. It’s not easy I know . Thanks for being here with us.
I carry you in my heart today,
dear Ose
with love . . .
sparrow
Powerful and wise words: “So I will approach it with faith and hope, this is all I can do for the moment being, being aware of fear also but in the same time not limited to it. “
Wishing you and the others a good outcome, Ose.
Namaste dear Ose.
May you have a beautiful day too Ose🌺