Winter

It is our lifework to fully live all the seasons of life. Not to try and deny our dark side or our aging. It is our lifework to live all the seasons of our life. Through this we gain wisdom, depth, steadfastness and substance.

None of us can escape the winter of the soul. The dark night comes to all of us at different times in our lives. Be it grief, hopelessness, failure, shame or despair we are not alone. If we allow ourselves to feel the so-called negative feelings we grow down into our souls. Much grows from this dark soil.

Deep insights have always come to me after experiencing the winter of the soul. However, those insights were often not visible to me in the darkness. At times I despaired if my energy would ever resurface to the light of day. But surely as the winter melts into the delicate green buds of spring my light and energy have been renewed – all in good time. Here are some of my journeys into the dark and the goodness I found on the other side. You are not alone, my friend.

Grief Denied

At times do you feel your dreams and self worth are eroded by your inner critic’s scathing comments? Awareness is the first key. When negative thoughts begin to whisper in your mind… STOP. Know this is part of the human condition. Practice compassion for yourself and for all others who suffer from negative thoughts.

I have found the Buddhist's exercise called "Tonglen" helpful. Breathe in all the angst, fear and torment (whatever you are feeling) of all human beings tormented by negative thoughts. Then, breathe out compassion and peace of mind (whatever you need) for yourself and also, for all the tormented minds in the world. For more tips on what has helped me in Transforming the Inner Critic throughout my seasons of life click here.

Spring

God in the Grass

The chocolate lilies are blooming on Knob Hill.
They are secreted away in a patch of unruly wild grasses.
Their camouflage complete.
The exotic beauty of their dark chocolate throats hidden
with their heads hanging low.
As though God knows such beauty must be treasured away
from the grabbing greed of our world.
Hiding there, bells bowed to the ground
a gift to those living in the moment… God in the grass.
- Teresa Proudlove

The Light Returns

Growing Your Purpose and Passion

Be alert to clues like tiny intuitions, inspirations, and ideas bubbling up from within and flowing from the world - indeed God -all the time. Click here to grow the fresh buds of purpose and passion.