The Nature of Happiness

Nature - it is just so natural! I have never considered myself much of a country girl - I really feel I more the city type. I love Nordstrom’s, fine dining and the occasional play. However, my husband invested in a cabin in McCall Idaho, and has occasionally insisted that we visit the place. I begrudgingly acquiesce, usually heavily armed with my paints, canvases and a nice bottle of wine.

This month he decided to surprise me with something ‘special.’ “We’re going on a sleigh ride with the kids,” he shared enthusiastically. “Great” I mutter. “We are going to feed the Elk” he continued. “Yea, O.K…Wait, what?” He knows I am an enormous lover of anything with feathers or fur, and I would be overjoyed at the prospect of seeing some wild critters up close and personal.

I have to admit, I have never been happier in my life than hanging with the Elk. I made good friends with a young female and I gave her some dating advice. My city girls laugh at me, but I think I may be coming into balance with the whole city/country thing. A few days in nature does seem to support me in down shifting into a more graceful, easy and gentle gear. And with the chaos and the craziness of the world, it can be a very pleasant change of pace.

The Course of Miracles says: “The problem is, you don’t KNOW what would make you happy.” I have found that to be true. Years ago, I had gotten everything I thought I wanted, and felt empty and depressed. I remember clearly saying to God, “I JUST WANT TO BE HAPPY!” In that moment I handed over the steering wheel of my life to Spirit – and He has taken me in a radically direction than what I would have consciously chosen for myself. Fortunately, God knew me better than I knew myself, and life has become a strange, supportive, surprising, amazing and fun-filled adventure.

Are you happy? Who is the captain of your ship? Write to me and share your thoughts and experiences!

Happy New Year!

2009 was a profound year for change and transformation. Unfortunately we cannot have the experience of rebirth without dying to the old way of being, which generally consists of confusion, pain and angst. Now that 2010 is underway I get the strong sense of new beginnings, optimism, relief and joy.

A simple exercise I recommend to students and clients is to consider where they were a year ago, and all they have learned and accomplished in 2009. Then express gratitude for the lessons and blessings (even if they were difficult or painful). The next step I recommend is choosing four or five words as anchors or intentions for the New Year. My words are Service, Prosperity, Celebration, and Co-Creation.

Service - May I easily find and connect with the souls whom I can inspire, empower, sooth and support. This is my prayer: “Dear God, where would you have me go, what would you have me do, what would you have me say and to whom?”

Prosperity - As I graciously receive all the Universe has for me, may I light the way for others to prosper, create and play. I finally understand I do not need to struggle financially to be spiritual or noble. I love not having to worry about money and instead use my energy to expand. Prosperity is our Divine Right and should be like breathing: I am graciously receiving and generously giving.

Celebration - We learn through sorrow until we learn how to learn through joy. I feel I have tipped over to the side of joy and life feels great. I want to thrive, play with others of like mind, and light the way for those who want to do the same!

Co-Creation - One of my greatest joys is that sense of being lined up with the Divine, and creating, teaching, and living from that space. I love the saying: “Go for God and all things can be added unto thee.” My strongest intention for the New Year, is to keep my eye on Spirit and consistently live life from this powerful,connected, joyful and miraculous space.

What are your words and intentions for the New Year? Write me and let me know, I would love to hear from you!