This spiritual path ain't for whimps

"We can use everything that happens to us as the means for waking up." Pema Chodrin
So you have an experience that really touches this vulnerable part of yourself.  Fear arises to defend against the vulnerability.  Whoa. Caught again.  That experience was the hook.  And you took the bait. But when you see that you got caught (again) that's the waking up part.  And when you work with yourself in this way, with a lot of kindness toward yourself and your vulnerabilities, that's the path.  I think the antidote to fear is having the confidence in your own goodness, your own wisdom, to take care of the fearful and vulnerable aspects of being human.  As long as you are alive there are going to be experiences that dangle a delicious hook in front of you. The question is will you take the bait?

Welcome Fall

I went to the river early this morning.  I was honored to see a bald eagle hunting for a fish.  The river was full and warm.  I made a small bundle with prayers for all and offered tobacco in thanksgiving to the Sacred River, the Eagle, and the Creator.
It was good. 

I hope this fall cycle

is enlightening and joy-filled

for you and all those you love

in ever widening circles

walk in balance

open

alive

present to whatever life throws at you

Gratitude harvest

The season of growth is coming to an end

I give thanks to the Creator

and the 4 directions

for the gifts of the Earth



I return thanks, reap the goodness and the hard lessons learned

Let go of the things that didn't turn out

collect the seeds in my Medicine pouch

and prepare to dream a new dream

for All my Relatives

I welcomed the sunrise with gratitude and cleansed my home to prepare for the Fall Equinox tomorrow. 

I reflect on my work in the world. On my advocacy for the dignity of the dying and vulnerable in the hospital. I am thankful for being able to pour myself into this work in the world. 

I am so thankful to all my teachers that continue to guide me on my path.

I am thankful for my dear family and friends that bring such sweetness to my daily life. These caring people remind me of my own goodness when I forget.

I return thanks to the Earth, Gaia, and all my relatives.

May we put our minds together as one and renew the Sacred Web of Life.

Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon came in strong this week.  It drove me inward.  To the Looks Within Place. I decided to begin a retreat for myself as I prepare for the Fall Equinox on Sunday.  It feels right.  Something is ending; and something has not yet begun. 

A bardo, a pause, a gap, an opening.





Medicine Wheel



Grandmother Spider

Ancient Weaver
She created the night sky
You can still see Her Sacred Web and sparkling constellations
She wove the dream of the world before the Earth was born
She asks what are you dreaming? What are you creating?
Weave a dream of beauty.

Awaken

The Four Limitless Ones Chant
May all beings enjoy happiness and the root of happiness.
May they be free from suffering and the root of suffering.
May they not be separated from the great happiness devoid of suffering.
May they dwell in the great equanimity free from passion, aggression, and prejudice.