Tag: heart

January 21, 2022

121

From as early as I can remember, my mom has quoted Psalm 121 when we enter a vehicle. Before we buckle up, as we buckle up and as we start moving down the road, we’d hear these words. I find myself saying these very words and being comforted by them often.

May they comfort you, knowing The Divine offers Protection, Provision and the very Preservation of our souls.

Chapter 121 of the Book of Psalms from The Holy Bible (New King James Version, but please look up the version of your choice, the one that speaks best to your heart. This is just the version we heard/memorized).

I will lift up my eyes to the hills—
From whence comes my help?
2 My help comes from the Lord,
Who made heaven and earth.

3 He will not allow your foot to be moved;
He who keeps you will not slumber.
4 Behold, He who keeps Israel
Shall neither slumber nor sleep.

5 The Lord is your keeper;
The Lord is your shade at your right hand.
6 The sun shall not strike you by day,
Nor the moon by night.

7 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil;
He shall preserve your soul.
8 The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in
From this time forth and even forevermore.

Common Day Hero: May you sense even now the way Heaven guards you. May your heart find reassurance in this Psalm and always may you know how deeply loved you are. My dearest HJ and TruG, I dedicate this post to you.

January 14, 2022

friendships

Friendship is said to be an interpersonal bond…a relationship of mutual endearment/warmth, trust and support.

Sometimes, I think of friendships as rocks or gems. I have been gifted with some rocks and some cool gems along the way…I have grown to see the value in every experience.

Some jagged, abrasive/coarse rocks cut and cause loss of blood and strength (unintentionally, at times, I’m sure). My personal experience has been that it was all necessary for me and I gained insight I wouldn’t otherwise have.

The beauty of the gems in my life (precious and few) is that we are free to feel, share, process and heal one another. We welcome one another fully into all the messy and miraculous that is our lives…no part is hidden.

I AM grateful for friendships that last despite turbulence, tornados and all sorts of terror (internal and external).

I AM grateful to be heard and given space to simply…be.

In all the shifting and shaking, after the rocks have fallen out, who are the gems in your life?

Gems: Hold each other (gently). Polish (help/heal) each other. Offer gratitude often. Grow/evolve alongside each other (at one’s own pace). Love well (listen, engage, forgive, share honestly and transparently).

Common Day Hero: We’ve both experienced inexplicable pain but so much joy as well…among them this unexpected friendship! You, brave heart, are a pleasant surprise and welcome treasure from Heaven. I cannot begin to express all that I see for you ~ The Divine has so much good coming your way. You have not yet seen the best…in every area. Today, I dedicate this post to you, dearest gem, RMA.

December 3, 2021

UNpleasant

For some of us, the holidays are not a pleasant season/experience. It’s a reminder of grief/s unresolved…and maybe some griefs, unexpected.

The holidays have me (and some others I know) remembering those who are no longer here. Some have transitioned from this earth and some are here, just no longer in our circle. Both seem deeply painful and at times, irreconcilable.

I don’t know of a formula for working through grief. sigh. From those who have shared their stories with me and my own experience, it seems a very personal and unique journey for each human. 

It’s easy to externally appear “well” because of pressure from family, work, friends, religious circles, our own inner critic. For some of us, it’s hiding in plain sight – with a bottle of pills or alcohol, with sugar, with anything that will have us feeling good momentarily.

This holiday season, I’m asking that we genuinely prioritize ourselves…that we take the time needed to grieve; to let ourselves feel and fully process.

This holiday season, as friends and family gather, if we need a moment, may we take the moment and walk away. If we need to decline some holiday party invites, may we do so. My heart is not that we isolate; my sincere hope is that we find a way to our healthiest rhythm.

If we need therapy, a support group, a book club, a dance class, yoga, pilates, an exercise buddy or group, a new hobby, a punching bag, a lifestyle change, more sleep, more water, an accountability partner… whatever it may be, may we move forward in it…now.

Happy Holidays ~ I understand it may not be “happy” but amidst it all, I wish us moments of sheer delight, laughter and happiness. I also wish us strength for this journey.

Proud of us for continuing to move forward.

I AM on the journey with (and for) you always, brave heart. 

Common Day Hero: You are such a loving and open heart to all around you. I see the strength of a thousand warriors within you. Shukriya for your kindness and hosting me even when you didn’t really know me. And always, thank you for the world’s best roti! Z-Ma, I dedicate this post to you.

November 12, 2021

driven

I’ve blogged about this before, but it keeps coming up so I’m “talkiN” about it again!

Driven…relentless.  X…Y and Z must happen at any cost. For me, the word ‘driven’ brings up an image of not taking care of one’s self because what’s priority is m-a-k-i-n-g things happen.

I choose to be Led.

Led, for me personally, is moving forward from a place of worship…rest…Peace.

As I AM led, I move into spaces that I know in my core are best.

Any work completed from here is always most fruitful/productive and truly beneficial for me and those around me.

I don’t hustle or grind. I move forward according to the impressions of Heaven on my heart…as I AM led.

I remind myself to stay here, in this calm space…in my heart because so many external factors…voices/noise say otherwise, but I know I’m the healthiest and favorite version of myself when I AM Led.

My fellow humans, friends, Warriors ~ in a world (religious world included) that is loud…a world that is screaming for something, at every turn, despite the fact that you’re already exhausted beyond expression, running on fumes and many times on the floor, bleeding out…may I encourage you to pause? To…

Be still.

Hear the Whisper.

Choose to be Led.

Together, may we be Led so that we can then lead and bring others along, from this healthy space.

Being Led has brought so much Freedom, Peace and Joy to me.

As you consider all this, what is one item that need not take up space on your plate any longer – in your personal, professional or spiritual circle, emotionally, mentally?

Common Day Hero: LuMaN, I felt your presence this past weekend and saw you even though you were physically nowhere near me…tears came rolling down my face at the thought of you. I really wanted to hug you; felt so strongly that you just needed to be held. I sent/send you love. Hope you are comforted and reassured every time Love and Light is sent your way. You are so dear to me. Today, I dedicate this post to you.

October 8, 2021

convenience

This week when I was paying for something with a credit card, a convenience fee popped up (my first thought was…the cashier didn’t tell me there would be a fee). I’d prefer knowing that up front.

Later that day, I wanted to get fuel for my ride (I had enough, but don’t like hitting one-fourth…just to be safe!). I stopped at a gas station and filled up.

Not even seven minutes later, while at a stop light, I saw another gas station with fuel prices ten cents less than what I had just paid! This one wasn’t next to the highway though like the one where I’d filled up – ah, convenience fee!

I started thinking, how many decisions per day are we making based on convenience? Do we make most (or all) of our decisions solely from a place of convenience? If so, how has that played out, long term?

Does it matter if the decisions are “major” or not when thinking through convenience/s?

Does it help to first make a pros/cons list, meditate, pray, speak to a few wise ones we know, seek professional guidance? What is convenience costing us (financially, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, physically)?

Common Day Hero: You were kind and loving during a time when I felt so unseen. I can’t begin to express my gratitude. Want you to know that your love touched/touches many. Earnestine, I dedicate this post to you.

August 27, 2021

women

Every one has a story to tell…this week, I’m remembering the empowering stories of just a few of the women in the Holy Bible. Following is a list of sorts –

From Sarah, we learn that age ain’t nothiN but a number – the Divine shines in what humans deem “impossible”.

Hagar shows us that the Divine always sees us (Hagar called the Divine, El-Roi, the One who sees…to see is to know and to know is to feel – the Divine sees/knows/feels it all with us).

Rahab is a reminder that the Divine loves us ALL…equally and has no favorites because each of us are favored!

Hannah shows us that the Divine answers prayers.

Ruth teaches us that the Divine is our Kinsman Redeemer and has Final Say!

Jael (Yaa-el) shows us that the Divine doesn’t discriminate…in any way.

Esther tells us the Divine can turn the heart of the King/Queen/dignitaries -through you…and me. We are Powerful and even more so, when Led by the Ultimately Powerful and Gentle One!

Elizabeth reminds us that we will give birth to Greatness beyond our imagination…whether that’s through childbirth, business, mentoring, empowering/nurturing others…we, as women, birth empires, after-all!

Mother Mary shows us the Divine will surprise, care for and protect us…even in the most interesting circumstances!

The “unnamed woman” with a blood disorder is a testament that the Divine is Our Great Physician and Healer.

Mary and Martha tell us that Resurrection happens!

Women – our faith, our choice to love ourselves first/well, our pursuit of our dreams are ever telling a story – one of tenacity, stamina, Wisdom, fierce loyalty and sisterhood.

Fellow Sister Warrior, I AM here, beside you, for you, warring alongside you, sitting in the shit with you and always available to hear your story!

Common Day Hero: The seemingly permanent has suddenly turned temporary (more times that you’d probably care to count), but one thing remains certain – the Divine holds you! Your faith continues to encourage many. Today, I dedicate this post to you, Euni.

August 13, 2021

school

A new school year has begun…some of you still have a few days (or more) before school begins – enjoy!

My kids are SO excited about their new school – I’m overjoyed…especially considering all the shit they had to walk through since the Vid arrived. The Vid isn’t to blame; it just shone a light on all that had been bubbling underneath.

Although it was painful beyond our ability to accurately express it…although it isn’t what we wanted…although we wouldn’t wish it on anyone, we can now see that it was necessary.

Necessary, for us to move past barely existing into living the best version of our lives.

How do you know if you’re living your best life? It most likely varies for us all, but what we know is –

We have Peace, Love, Joy and a Song in our hearts…daily!

We are safe!

We have a base of Gratitude!

We have a sense of fulfillment in our work/play!

We are learning something new everyday!

We are content – in a smaller space, with less things and so much more Freedom and Liberty!

We really needed these pets (three cats!).

Whatever is in the way (including yourself), work to remove all obstacles so that you can breathe…live…thrive!

Common Day Hero: You are a Sensitive Soul, a Prophetess, and a Fellow Warrior. I AM honored to have you in my life. Keep shining – this world is better because of your Light. Kindred Spirit, Destiny, I dedicate this post to you.

July 30, 2021

healing

Healing is miraculous, at times.

Healing is available through herbs, essential oils, nature and all that Mother Earth has to offer.

Healing comes through modern medicine…scientific/technological advancements.

Healing is taking deep breaths, singing, exercise, journaling, dancing, therapy, drawing, meditation, listening to music, coloring, reading, time in nature, stating affirmations, spending time with friends (human and/or animals!), etc.

Healing is heaven ~ we sing about it, talk about it, quote verses about it but ain’t nobody tryna make a trip today!

I have been Asking the Divine for healing in the form of a miracle for so many people in my life right now.

My eyes are filled with tears on a daily basis.

My heart is heavy and I’m taking deep/full breaths throughout the day.

I’m releasing ~ envisioning balloons (and at times bubbles) floating up to Heaven so that I no longer carry any weight.

Are you carrying any weight around a health test, a diagnosis/prognosis, a job, a relationship, something else that is traumatic/unexpected…painful, heart-breaking?

What helps bring healing to your heart? Incorporate one item into your day. 

Healing is doing what YouR heart needs!

Your heart is WORTH it!

On the journey with you, fellow Warrior…always!

Common Day Hero: You are a devoted prayer warrior. Countless individuals have benefitted from your prayers (me and my children included). Thankful for your love, kindness and prayers. Elsie, today, I dedicate this post to you.

July 2, 2021

Fazal

Fazal, Arabic for grace…such a beautiful word/name.

I’ve blogged about grace before, but just this week, I received the heart-breaking news that cancer has taken residence in someone dear to me…and grace held me as I began reeling; unwilling to accept the news.

I can’t even begin to express all the emotions that come up when the word cancer is mentioned…

First, shock/disbelief hit, then a deep, sharp and almost debilitating pain in my chest, anxiety surrounding all the “what-ifs”…the adverse effects or ineffectiveness of medications and proposed treatment plans, the probability of death being so much closer, concern for those in caretaker roles.

I immediately closed my eyes, took deep/full breaths, started focusing on my breathing and released each individual. I reminded myself that I cannot carry this weight. It is crushing…especially for an empath.

I inhale: observe more 

I exhale: absorb less.

Whatever you’re facing: cancer, career changes, child-related concerns, Covid, challenges in general…know that you’re not in it alone. Divine grace is waiting on all of us. Once embraced, we can extend it to all.

Fazal (grace) to you, friend…

On this journey, may we remember that grace is ever with us.

Grace carries us. Grace keeps us. 

You can rest, knowing that Grace has us.

Common Day Hero: I recently came across a note you wrote when someone very young passed away, unexpectedly. I was shaken beyond words. Your kind words brought comfort and hope. You have personally overcome so much more than most and in such a short time. Your acts of service do not go unnoticed. Opa, I dedicate this post to you.

January 15, 2021

deserve

Do we operate from a place of “deserve” or love?

Wonder Woman (in the movie that released in 2017) says, “It’s not about deserve and I believe in love”. I took the kids to see the movie when it first released, but we just recently watched it again and this time around, this sentence catapulted itself into my heart.

“It’s not about deserve and I believe in love.”

When the seemingly mundane tasks are to be done like washing the dishes, folding the fourth load of laundry, wiping down the counters, cleaning the toilet that never looks clean even when it’s just been cleaned for the twentieth time, am I doing it because one “deserves” it or simply from a heart of love?

When someone asks for a favor, am I doing it because I’ve deemed them worthy and/or because they’ve done things to deserve it or simply because I believe in operating from a place of love?

I’m introspective and reflective (my dad and sister are to be credited for that) so I regularly process why I do what I do and whether my heart is evident. I’ve lived this way for some time now. Every thing I do is fully from my heart. No obligation. No “shoulds”…just a heart of love.

This is most difficult to practice when someone has decided not to keep their love on anymore. When an individual who has been such an intricate part of our lives decides to move in a different direction, it is imperative to ask ourselves how we can still move from a place of love.

This keeps our hearts fully free and open to give and receive love.

And a heart-check is always in order. Am I operating from a base of love or obligation? What is currently weighing my heart down? What steps can I take to ensure that I’m operating fully from my heart?

Common Day Hero: Many have violated your trust and ignored or dismissed your heart, but you continue to shine brightly. Through the years, your heart has remained open to love. You have brought (and will continue to bring) love and understanding cross cultures, religion and generations. Mahi, I dedicate this post to you.

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