I believe in joy!

Just Own Yourself ™  

"You deserve happiness. Say it. Everywhere. In every situation. No matter what the cost.
And say it, only say it, because you mean it more than anything. Because if you believe
that we deserve light spilling in the window and a tomorrow that ain’t so heavy
and conversation to water our bones and the chance

to be redeemed in the eyes of those we’ve hurt,
then you believe in happiness.
You believe in joy."
~Hannah Brencher

Ordinary Miracles

Just Own Yourself ™ 

 

There is a song by Sarah McLachlan that takes my breath away every time I hear it, reminding me of the ordinary miracles that grace our lives on a daily basis.  All we have to do is open our eyes to see the simple marvels that surround us.  They are always there.  Always. 

Sometimes we can get so wrapped up in life happening to us, that we forget our time on earth is a journey to be enjoyed.  To be savored.  Appreciated.  Everyone always seems to be in a mad rush.  Have you taken a vacation lately?  (Hello, Mark, in blissful Sedona, AZ!)  If a vacation isn't in the plans, what about a quick time out?  Even if it’s just stepping out your own back door to appreciate the beauty of the sky, the smell of the fresh green grass, and don’t forget to listen to the little birds serenading you from the branches of the trees while you’re out there.  Yes, they’re singing just for you.  Ordinary miracles.

If you work at an office complex, step outside your building or take your car to a local forest preserve to breathe in the revitalizing air.  Give yourself a little nature break and feel the sunshine on your face.  I love to walk the nature preserves this time of the year.  The spring landscape in all its magnificence comes alive and just beckons to my soul … “come, unwind, relax, find some calm in nature, feel the tranquility, breathe in the fresh air and know you can always find peace here.”  This is when my heart opens wide and I am full of so much gratitude…for simply being alive! 

Have you ever noticed when you’re in a space of gratitude and appreciation, your heart expands and life flows so much smoother and things go so much easier?   As Melodie Beattie says, “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity…It turns problems into gifts, failures into success, the unexpected into perfect timing, and mistakes into important events. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”  And, as Oprah Winfrey wisely states, "Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you will never, ever have enough."

I say we focus on being thankful for what we have, notice and appreciate the simple "ordinary" miracles, and watch in awe as our lives spring into full bloom!

Here are some of the lyrics to 'Ordinary Miracle' by Sarah McLachlan.  A link to the song is at the bottom of this article.  If you get a moment, I encourage you to listen and let your heart and spirit be moved by these magical lyrics:

The sky knows when its time to snow
You don’t need to teach a seed to grow
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

Birds in winter have their fling
And always make it home by spring
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

The sun comes up and shines so bright
It disappears again at night
It’s just another ordinary miracle today

When you wake up everyday
Please don’t throw your dreams away
Hold them close to your heart
Cause we are all a part
Of the ordinary miracle

Click here for the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INCGOrNBexQ

Wishing you a lovely week full of an abundance of ordinary miracles!

Peace and blessings to all,

Victoria

Backpack of Love

Just Own Yourself ™ 

 Here's another "oldie but goodie" article which I penned in March of 2009 - will always remember this awesome experience!

"It is not the things we get, but the hearts we touch that will measure our success in life."  ~Anonymous

Wow … I experienced something incredible last week! A group of caring people I know assembled backpacks full of necessities (blankets, food, and personal care items) to pass out to the homeless. It was an anonymous outreach program called the "Street Ministry." I was offered one of the bags in the hopes of passing it on to someone less fortunate. 

I thought the bag would sit in my trunk for a while, so I hesitated taking one at first. However, since I'm a firm believer in all things happening for a reason, I chose my backpack — a red duffle-looking bag. I had a hunch it might be put to good use. I had no idea it would be so soon! 

Only TWO days after placing the backpack in the trunk of my car, I spotted a homeless person at an intersection I passed frequently, without ever seeing someone there the previous 20 years. 

I was running errands with an elderly gentleman I work for as a caregiver. We were at an extremely busy shopping center...it was lunchtime, and cars were buzzing by at an unbelievably fast pace. And then, suddenly ... there HE was. Tattered and torn, wearied and worn, holding a sign: "Homeless and Hungry, Please Help." 

I knew this was my opportunity. I excitedly told Frank, my elderly passenger, why I so abruptly turned the car around, jerking him a little from his seat. Frank just smiled at me, as if to give his approval.

After maneuvering my way through heavy traffic, I finally neared the unsuspecting man. I beeped the horn and jumped out of my car to capture his attention. He spotted me and picked up his stride toward my waving arm, folding his cardboard sign as he approached the car. I extended my hand and introduced myself with a smile. 

"Hello, I am Victoria." He shook my hand and told me his name was Michael. "Do you live around here?" I asked him. (Later it hit me: What kind of question was THAT? But, hey, I was nervous!)

"No, I found myself on hard times," he replied.

"Where do you sleep?" was my next question.

"In a shelter when there's room," Michael said, "or mostly on the street, and sometimes I get invited into someone's home for the night."  

I smiled as he spoke — a warm, genuine smile that came from deep inside me. I told him I had a backpack filled with goodies in the trunk of my car, and asked if he would accept it. "Yes, thank you," he said graciously.  I handed him the backpack ... and before I had the chance to utter my next words, he said the EXACT thing I was about to say: "God Bless You." He said it in such a sincere, appreciative voice that I could literally feel my heart double in size; it felt like it was going to burst out of me!

"God Bless You," I said back to him with an ever-widening smile on my face. I then asked if I could have a hug. He looked at me with what seemed a bit of hesitancy ... but I wasn’t certain if he was the tentative one, or if it was my own awe at what was taking place. That's when spirit led me to open up my arms, and we hugged. I couldn't help but to smell his overpowering stench ... but I didn't mind at all; the warmth of the moment, two souls connecting, is what shall always linger in my memory.

I truly don't know who benefited more, the man with the cardboard sign, or myself. As a result of our exchange, I realized my mission in life: I am a Steward of Good. That is my purpose for being here. It's that simple. And the homeless man, perhaps he's really a teacher of compassion in disguise.

It was such a high, such an amazing experience, that I invite each person reading this to reach out to someone in need. Perhaps it's someone in need of a hug ... a warm smile ... a heartfelt compliment ... or a backpack full of love. For, it truly is in giving that we receive the most.

Peace & blessings to all,
Victoria

Follow Your Bliss

Just Own Yourself ™

 

I just found the below article I wrote in April of 2009, and thought it was worthwhile to share.  Following my bliss has been good, it's what led to my becoming a nutritionist and I truly feel that I can say I *finally* know what I want to be when I grow up! =) 

When I made a conscious decision I wanted out of the corporate world because I did not want to live one more day that I wasn't feeling fulfilled, I had no idea what I was going to do … however, I was willing to do whatever I had to do, to find out what it was I was meant to be doing. And what a roller coaster of a ride it’s been since I made that decision three years ago. Although, at the same time, it’s been the most rewarding, fulfilling and eye-opening ride of my life in terms of soul enrichment.

Somehow, someway, through much synchronicity and many “coincidences”, I wound up in a care-giving role. It totally makes sense, as I’ve always had a passion for being of service and making a difference in the lives of others. I’ve fallen in love, in every sense of the word, with the wonderful individuals I’ve had the fortunate opportunity of caring for. People whom I would’ve never had the chance to meet, if I hadn't followed my heart, rid my life of undue pressure, and pursued things which had personal meaning and fulfillment for me.

First, there was Viktoria. Someone who shared my very own name, with a slightly different spelling, who was born exactly 40 years and one day before my own birthday. What a unique, independent, strong-willed woman. She captivated me from day one, probably because of how alike we were in many ways. Underneath all her strength, she possessed a softness and sensitivity that bonded us like long lost sisters.

Born in Lithuania, Viktoria lived through World War II with incredible stories of survival. Being an only child separated from her parents during the war, she survived living in a refugee camp, and for the hope of safety even dared to sneak onto a military train headed for France. Now that’s brazen! One of the soldiers spotted her after a few days, hiding underneath one of the seats, and commanded her to tell him what she was doing there. In all her boldness and indifference caused by war, Viktoria firmly told the soldier she was going to visit a friend and to leave her alone. And he did. Her determination and resiliency took her far.

Married and divorced twice, Viktoria went on to raise five beautiful children on her own. Doing the best she knew how at the time, with what she was given, it is my only hope that all of her children realize and accept the gift their mother gave to them. Her self, her commitment, her blind faith of making it despite the seeming odds stacked against her. That’s devotion. That is love.

Yesterday was Viktoria’s funeral. She died at age 85. I was overtaken with emotion when her daughter asked me to give the eulogy at her mother’s graveside. In my eyes, there’s nothing that compares to the relationships we grow during our time here on earth. It is those human connections that provide us with the true lessons, experiences, and love that help our souls to mature, grow, and know the very essence of living.

I’m now a caregiver for a lovely older couple who recently celebrated their 63^rd wedding anniversary. Yes, SIXTY THREE years of marriage. Another amazing lesson in devotion. Frank and Mary Lou have also been tremendous teachers to me. I’ve learned a lot about patience, loyalty, respect, and the importance of lightheartedness in marriage. It’s cute to see them laugh and kid with each other. She hardly seems to notice any of his quirks or idiosyncrasies, yet only sees the unique man she fell in love with when she was a teenager. That’s devotion. That is love.

Life school has been so very good to me. I’ve been seeing and feeling the love everywhere, thanks to all the beautiful souls I would’ve never met had I not dared to venture down a path of completely unfamiliar territory. I used to repeat a mantra to myself over and over again, to calm and reassure my uneasy spirit:  “I am safe, it’s only change … I am safe, it’s only change.” Now, I am open and accepting and even embracing of change. Not afraid any longer, but welcoming of the gifts that come with an open mind and open heart.

I still don’t know exactly where my path is headed; all I know for sure is that I am most definitely traveling in the right direction. Faith has replaced fear, inspiration has replaced loneliness, and I no longer feel adrift at sea but anchored in the belief that I am exactly where I need to be at this time in my life.

Be yourself.

Follow your bliss.

And above all else, have fun along the way … and all will lead to exactly where it’s supposed to. Life just works that way when we’re true to ourselves.

Peace and blessings to all,

Victoria



 





Share the JOY!

Just Own Yourself ™

 



"Joy multiplies when it is shared among friends." 

~R.A. Salvatore

The joy bird original artwork can be purchased here: 

http://www.etsy.com/shop/3WishesCreations?ref=seller_info_count

The Spirit Heals with JOY

Just Own Yourself ™

 



Joy your way to JOY!

Just Own Yourself ™

"Life is supposed to be fun. You said, "I'll go forth and choose. I'll look at the data, and I'll say yes to this and yes to this and yes to this; and I'll paint a picture of the things that I want, and I'll vibrate about them because that's what I'm giving my attention to. And the Universe will respond to my vibration. And then I'll stand in a new place where a whole new batch of yeses are available, and I'll say yes to this and yes to this and yes to this." You did not say, "I'll go forth and struggle into joy," because from your Nonphysical Perspective you know it is vibrationally not possible. You cannot struggle to joy. Struggle and joy are not on the same channel. You joy your way to joy. You laugh your way to success. It is through your joy that good things come." 

~ Abraham-Hicks

Hop aboard the Love Bus!

Just Own Yourself ™

“What do you want to be when you grow up?”

Ah, that age old question. 

When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a school bus driver.  Lol, makes me giggle just typing that.😊 While all the other kids wanted to be a doctor, a policeman, a fireman, a teacher...then…yep, there I was, that awkward little girl with bow legs and freckles, who wanted to be a school bus driver.  I was always way too self-conscious to admit something so embarrassing, so I never revealed my sweet lil' secret to anyone.  That is, until the real reason dawned on me, and I finally realized WHY I was so drawn to wanting to drive a school bus for a living.

When I was in first grade, I remember having the most kind and beautiful bus driver who would stop near the corner of Londonberry Lane to pick up the school crew every weekday morning.  She greeted everyone with such friendliness and warmth, that one couldn’t help but feel extra special in her presence.  She welcomed us onto the bus with a big bowl of hard candy (this was back in the '70s!) and was always so pleasant and sweet.  There was a permanently etched smile on her face, and a ‘sing-song’ melody to her voice.  What a wonderful way to start the day greeted by a woman spilling over with kindness!

Many-many years later it hit me, it's not WHAT she was doing, but WHO she was that led me to believe I wanted to be a school bus driver.  I wanted to be just like her because of how special and valued she made me feel; because of her cheery disposition and genuine smile; because of the uplifting impact she made on those around her; because of the way she brought joy to each and every child who boarded her inspiring bus filled with love and kindness.

Instead of being defined by something outside of ourselves, a “job” or a “position” we acquire, what if we were to grow up with people asking what qualities we admire in others, what things we enjoy doing, what makes us happy and brings our soul alive.  I think these are the real questions we need to ask.  It is these questions that will lead to a path of fulfillment, as it becomes a discovery of those natural gifts already within ourselves, our inherent passions and  talents; and when our work is based around that, it is then we will find happiness – when it is about WHO we are, not “what” we think we should be doing.

In other words, when how we earn a living matches our interests and passions, it stops feeling like work.  And even if that isn’t how we earn our living, as long as we’re doing something in our lives that enhances those traits, such as a hobby, sport, craft or volunteer work, we feel more alive and our lives flow so much smoother because we are living a more balanced life. 

Just like my unforgettable bus driver from long ago (who never worked a day in her life!), I love making a difference, spreading kindness, bringing joy and inspiration to others.  So I ask you to look for the qualities you admire in others, and then to explore your heart and soul and find those traits and other jewels in yourself.  Also ask your children and other people in your life what they’re passionate about and encourage their interests … and let’s all hop on the joy bus and enjoy and embrace a purposeful passion-filled life!

“To love what you do and feel it matters, how could anything be more fun?” ~Katherine Graham

"Choose a job you love, and you will never work a day in your life."~Confucius

Peace and blessings to all,

~Victoria.

The vibrant JOY design can be purchased on an assortment of products here: www.zazzle.com/owningjoy



Language of Love

Just Own Yourself ™

 

 

Many years ago when my boys were in grade school, we took a trip to visit grandma and grandpa.  And when I say trip, I guess I'm luckier than most people who don't live near their folks.  It was only a twenty-minute drive door to door.  Being a single mother and working in the corporate world at that time, visiting mom and dad's house was a welcoming time to kick back, unwind, eat mom's awesome pork chops, and take a breather while grandma and papa entertained the kids. 

One particular evening comes to mind during a routine Monday evening visit.  Simple as the night may have seemed to most, it made a significant impact upon me. 

I loved to sit in dad's favorite spot - an oversized, tan upholstered chair in the family room that faced the television.  I wasn't much for TV, but there was some sort of contentment I found sitting in that chair. I'd normally grab a magazine, kick up my feet on the large ottoman, and munch on popcorn sprinkled with parmesan cheese.  I'd hear my boys laughing as they played with my parents in the background, knowing that before too long, my dad was going to want to relax with a bowl of butter pecan ice-cream in 'his' chair.

Here comes my favorite part... 

He'd pace back and forth in the kitchen, several feet behind the chair, expecting me to move – to the couch, to another room in the house, essentially anywhere; it didn’t matter where, as long as he could reclaim ‘his’ chair.  Sometimes he'd clear his throat, make unusual noises, or even stand directly beside the chair – however, the whole while he shuffled to and fro or stood beside me, he never said a single word to me! 

It became a game of sorts.  I'd sit, he'd pace or stand next to me, no words were ever exchanged, but I always knew exactly what he wanted.  I always waited for him to ask me to move, but for some reason he just wouldn't ask.  So, eventually, my mom would finally end up asking me to move, speaking for him, telling me that my dad wanted to sit in his chair. 

I never really understood what our little game was all about, until one evening while in the midst of him pacing behind me, it hit me like one of those vivid light-bulb moments.  My dad was never really one for words or showing his emotions.  I'd always wished differently, always yearned for that perfect "Father Knows Best" father, until I started to read between the lines and accept my father for who he is and not what I wished for him to be.  That's when I figured out that by him not being able to ask me to move from his chair was his way of saying "I love you". 

No wonder that was my favorite place to sit, and why the game went on for so long. 

I came to understand that the language of love can be communicated in many different ways, and not to expect or anticipate receiving it in the way we might think is the “right” way.  Some people can easily verbalize their emotions.  Other people feel awkward showing emotion or articulating their feelings, so they express themselves in nonverbal ways, such as my father.  For others, even a slight touch on the arm or some small gesture of kindness is their way of letting you know you are loved and appreciated.  We have to open not only our ears, but also our eyes and hearts to interpret the many signs and symbols of love. 

My boys are now grown, my parents have since moved from that house, and I do miss our little game.  It was so sweet and simple, yet spoke volumes.  Today is my father's 69th birthday, which is probably why I find myself reflecting on this story and what he's taught me. 

Happy Birthday, dad ... I love you, too. 

Peace and blessings to all,

Victoria





Joy - a wonder working technique!

Just Own Yourself ™

 

"The greatest gift you can give yourself is joy, not only because of the feeling that goes with it at the moment, but because of the magnificent experience it will draw to you. It becomes your mark, your nature, your name. It is a wonder-working technique that will produce wonders in your life."
~Jack Boland

Be Careful What You Wish For...

Just Own Yourself ™

 

I vividly recall my first pregnancy over 21 years ago.  I was reading a chapter in a pregnancy book about morning sickness, and the author stated that morning sickness is largely prevalent in the United States only because women EXPECT it to happen.  Nowhere in the world are pregnant women throwing up and becoming ill like American women.  Others may experience some morning sickness, but it’s not even close to the rate of those in America – which is where I live.  That really struck me.  I thought if all it took was setting my mind to expect a fantastic pregnancy with no morning sickness, then that was for me.  So, that’s what I did.  I set my expectations towards a smooth and easy pregnancy, and that’s exactly what I experienced  – not only once, but twice!   

 

(Now for the opposite experience…) 

 

Then there was the time I was driving in a snowstorm on the highway, one of the busiest interstates in Illinois.  You know how our minds sometimes drift off and we suddenly find ourselves in a daydream … so, there I was, imagining myself in full detail on the side of the road in a pile of snow, calling a friend for help because I lost control of my car and ended up in a ditch.  Well, this was one of the scariest times of my life, because just THAT happened but minutes after I imagined it!  I lost control of my car, it spun around in the middle of a 4-lane highway, and I swear my car must’ve been surrounded by a legion of angels, because somehow I ended up unscathed on the left side of the road … in the middle of a ditch!

 

Through the above experiences (and many others!), I’ve learned we really are the creators of our own reality – and I’ve many more examples than just the two above. 

 

You’ve probably heard the saying “be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it”.  And I’ll add to that saying – do you really want it?!  Think of a wish as a thought.  What are you focusing your thoughts on?  Are you mindlessly daydreaming, or letting your mind get carried away in something dreadful?  We don’t think we’re wishing for anything negative, but when we’re find ourselves flagrantly daydreaming of something awful happening, or our thoughts are focused on fear or worry, that is what we’ll produce or manifest. 

 

What if we were to consciously turn our negative thoughts around and change our focus and expect otherwise?  Such as I did with my pregnancies, that I didn’t do when I was caught up in my mind imagining something terrible occurring in that snowstorm.  Our minds are so powerful.  Now when I find myself starting to envision negativity of any kind, I’ll stop the thought midway and turn it around to something positive, or use it to my advantage to pay attention to what my intuition is trying to tell me (such as slow down and stay out of the left merge lane in the midst of a major snowstorm). 

 

I’ve also learned that our lives always reflect back to us what we think, feel and believe.  Either positive or negative.  Conscious thought or unconscious thinking.  We need only to look at our surroundings to see the result of our current state of mind.  Also known as cause (thinking) and effect (outcome).  We really do create our own reality.  Do you like what you see?  Are you creating a lot of good, or a lot of not-so-good?

 

Many people, especially new-thought teachers and motivational speakers, are saying the same thing, trying to empower conscious thought and positive thinking to help people create better lives.  I don’t think there can be enough messengers out there … but I’m also a firm believer in trusting our own experiences as the true mentor.  Think back to your own experiences, your own life, when you were either thinking negatively and brought about negative consequences as a result of where your focus was … or, positive experiences as a result of where your mindset was.  Our personal encounters are our own best teachers.  If we’re not already, we must become cognizant of using our minds wisely, for that’s where the magic in life truly has its chance to begin.

 

“Change your thoughts and you change your world." ~Norman Vincent Peale

 

”Formulate and stamp indelibly on your mind a mental picture of yourself as succeeding. Hold this picture tenaciously. Never permit it to fade. Your mind will seek to develop the picture...Do not build up obstacles in your imagination." ~Norman Vincent Peale

 

“Now that it's all over, what did you really do yesterday that's worth mentioning?”  ~Coleman Cox

 

Make yours a life worth mentioning!

 

Peace and blessings to all,

Victoria

Do you react or choose your response?

Just Own Yourself ™

 

So, there stood my two small darlings, only seven and eight years old at the time, side-by-side in front of the bathroom mirror.  I was behind them in the hallway, in a rush to get out of the house, becoming more impatient by the minute at their lack of understanding what "hurry!" meant.  Oh, how cute they were ... being silly, making faces at each other while brushing their teeth, their laughter and innocence a magical view to behold.  Except for this particular morning.  I was so caught up in my own little world, that all I could feel was my impatience and agitation growing faster than Jack's beanstalk on steroids.
 

I had just about enough of their un-cooperation, and was on the verge of blowing my stack, when my older son suddenly poked the younger one in the side and said, "Hey, watch, this is where mom loses it."

My jaw dropped to the carpet as I stood there completely immobilized.  It was one of those moments where time stood still and everything froze in place.  Was I really THAT predictable?!   

How sad.  Yet, what an AH-HA moment it was for me.  An awakening, one could say, for which I am most grateful.

My little sages not only taught me a grand lesson of patience, but that time was going to pass no matter what ... and did I want it to go by in a blur reacting to everything around me in haste, or would I instead choose to slow down and appreciate the "small things" that stood before me?   

Since that eye-opening morning many-many years ago, I've become mindful of choosing my response, rather than being a victim to stress or worry and reacting to a situation.  I also call this stepping atop my own personal watchtower.  By becoming the observer in my life and viewing things from a higher perspective, I've grown to be more accepting and patient with others as well as myself, and have also developed more compassion and understanding.  I will admit that it’s not always easy to make the climb, but it does get easier with time and practice. 

We might not have control over everything that happens, but we certainly have control over our response.  It's also about being "in the moment".  Actually, isn't that what patience is all about?  Not thinking ahead, not rushing time, just being in the now, the present moment – which is where the gift is.  I'm sure you're familiar with the saying:  "Yesterday's history, tomorrow's a mystery, today is a gift – that's why they call it the present."

I encourage you to step atop your own personal watchtower and observe yourself over the next couple of days.  Whenever a challenging circumstance is troubling you, be it a disturbing event or person, or even your own darling children, literally envision a watchtower in your mind; climb the stairs to the top, then look down at whatever your situation at hand is with new vision.  I'd love to hear about your revelations; please share your feedback ... it just might be your unique observation that helps others to grow.  

Wishing you a week full of patience and discovery!

Peace and blessings to all,

~Victoria.

The Hug Experiment

Just Own Yourself ™

 

I was hiking with a friend of mine the other day, when she told me she flinches when someone tries to hug her.  She said she is afraid of hugs and the vulnerability they represent. Although she grew up in a family where emotional expression and giving and receiving hugs were commonplace, somehow in her mid-thirties, hugging had become foreign and extremely uncomfortable to her.  Through the years, she unknowingly became accustomed to keeping her physical and emotional distance from human tenderness or affection.  Avoiding hugs developed into her way of stopping other people from invading her personal space.

I felt sad for her as she told me this recent realization, because I know how therapeutic hugging is for the soul.  I also felt happy for her newfound awareness, knowing she is on the brink of a major breakthrough in her struggle for personal growth and emotional freedom.  "What the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls a butterfly." ~Richard Bach.

I didn't even realize the significance of hugging until I went through an intensive patient care training course to become a volunteer for Hospice.  My teacher, an unforgettable mentor of immense compassion and wisdom, spoke of the deep longing everyone has to be touched ... and the tremendous power of a single hug. 

She walked us through a first-hand study.  The "hugging" experiment.  There were fifteen of us in the class, and we had to go around the room, first asking for a hug, then being the recipient of a hug.  I was in the first group, the 'givers'.  "Hello, may I have a hug?"  I had to ask as I went around the table, arms outstretched to my fellow classmates.  I must admit it was an awkward, uncomfortable feeling.  One of my male classmates, married with three little girls, just couldn't let go of his extreme unease with our experiment ... yet at the end of our session, he seemed to be doing somewhat better as his discomfort started to ease up a little with time and practice. 

We were encouraged to take our hug experiment into the community, and I tried it out on a helpful sales clerk at the local Borders Bookstore.  It was near closing time, and she patiently helped me track down an extinct CD in the back room.  I was so grateful I just had to hug her.  I asked, "May I have a hug?"  She stood back after our embrace, with tears in her eyes and deep emotion in her voice, and said to me, "Thank you, I needed that; it's been a long time since someone hugged me."  Talk about profound! 

As a result of my Hospice class and our hug experiment, I learned the deep healing benefits a hug can bring.  It's one of the very best things we can do for others and ourselves.  The act of hugging actually causes the brain to release endorphins – chemicals that produce a natural "high", bringing about feelings of well-being.  Touching is also a behavior that can be learned, or re-learned, as the man in my class experienced.
         
I'm okay with hugging now … in fact, I can easily hug a complete stranger.  It's been a process, though, and I trust my friend will one day find her comfort zone.  We now end our hiking adventures with a warm embrace, and it’s a beautiful thing. 

I think one of the most powerful questions we can ever ask another human, is: "May I have a hug?" 

Keep it in mind.  Try it on for size.  And may you know only joy.

Peace and blessings to all,

~Victoria.

Got Joy?

 Just Own Yourself ™

"The future, higher evolution will belong to those who live in joy, who share joy, and who spread joy."   ~Torkom Saraydarian

Pure Potential

Just Own Yourself ™

PURE POTENTIAL

“People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing – that's why we recommend it daily.”

~Zig Ziglar

Right on.  Now Zig is definitely speaking my language!  If I don’t submerge myself in motivational bathing on a regular basis, life becomes more challenging for me to navigate.  That’s why I’m always on the lookout for new, inspirational material.  This past Sunday, I had my very first sampling of Bishop T.D. Jakes, and I am HOOKED!!  Holy cow, does he ever deliver a message with pure power and inspiring impact!!! Absolutely incredible. 

Bishop T.D. Jakes (hello, how come I’ve never heard of him before today – one of my new favorite people ever!!) had me whooping and hollering in my living room like I was a guest-gone-wild in his live studio audience.  My teenage sons would’ve looked at me like I was half whacked had they been home that morning! J  I couldn’t help myself.  He has a gift of delivering such a powerful message with incredible zeal and passion, that I found myself on the edge of my couch, pumping my arm in the air with enthusiasm, totally caught up in his message of birthing new ideas.  We are ALL here for a purpose, each one of us, pregnant with pure potential and real possibility. 

Bishop Jakes was on Oprah’s new network, OWN, and his message paralleled how I’ve been feeling lately.  Inside of all of us there are new concepts, songs, books, works of art, creative ideas, business ventures, fill in the blank, just waiting to come out.  If YOU haven't said or expressed it, it hasn’t been done.  We are all unique with our own gifts to share with the world, and the world needs your unique contribution.  I cannot stress that enough.  I know, because this very feeling has been knawing at me for ten years, if not longer.  There's a place deep inside of each one of us that wants to take life to the next level, and go from surviving to thriving.  Take a chance with me.  I know you can do it!  What do you have to lose?  Absolutely nothing, but potentially a whole LOT to gain.  Step out on that ledge…believe you can fly, and we’ll soar together!    

Here I am, closing in on fifty, daring to take a chance.  It’s scary, but it’s also fun, new, exciting…and what I’ve always wanted to do – inspire others to believe in themselves and live their best life.  I encourage you to join me on this journey of being bold and adventurous, by bringing your full potential and craziest dreams to life!  We’re only crazy if we hide our God given talents and gifts…and we’re also being selfish, too – for God didn’t give us our talents to be hidden away, but to be set free to take on a brand new beautiful life of their own, and impact the lives of others.               

So, last week when I saw the online ad for Oprah’s “Super Soul Sunday” and the sneak peek of Bishop Jakes and his message of personal empowerment, I knew I had to check it out.  I caught the live stream of inspiring interviews with truly soulful people that made me come ALIVE.  It was a Super Soul Sunday, indeed!  Soak me regularly in your tub full of radically alive guests, Oprah, you just got yourself a new fan, and I want to pass the inspiration along! J

You can still catch it here: http://www.oprah.com/own-super-soul-sunday/super-soul-sunday.html  Just look under ‘Full Episodes’.  Truly empowering.

As an aside, I’m not here to promote TV shows or celebrities, not getting paid to write any of this, but this was a must-share.  If you’re looking for some inspiration and motivation, no doubt you’ll find yourself as moved and inspired as I was. 

I’d love to hear your feedback…and to also learn of who moves and inspires you?  Moreso, what precious dream can I tenderly hold for you?  What is it that your heart truly desires and what do you wish to manifest?  Please let me know in the comment section and I will put you on my daily prayer list and affirm only the highest and best for you and your life.  

I believe in you!

Much love and many blessings,
~Vicki.