Inspiration: #Reverb12:16

Who inspired you in 2012? And why? What gifts did they give you?  
                    How will you carry these forward in 2013?

I’d like to share an excerpt from a post I wrote two years ago on a blog that no longer exists:

When I returned from America a couple of weeks ago, the postman delivered a mysterious package to me.  There was no return address or note inside, only a box wrapped in Christmas paper.  I eagerly tore open my New Year’s surprise.  I held a cardboard box in my hand with the following words written on it.  

"Willow Tree is an intimate line of figurative sculptures that speak in quiet ways to heal, comfort, protect and inspire.  This piece is cast from my original carving, and then painted by hand.  I try to keep the interpretation of Willow Tree open.  I hope this makes it more personal, and allows you to decide its meaning.  May the simplicity of these figures communicate peace and serenity to you and those you love.” –Susan Lordi

I was astonished by the image I uncovered.  It was a small sculpture of a brown-skinned woman with her arms outstretched, birds gently resting on her.  Her face is upturned towards the warmth of the sun.  The woman’s back is arched, exposing her heart chakra to the elements.  She obviously feels safe; the wild creatures must know she is no threat to them either.

Several things struck me about this most treasured gift.  Of all the wonders of the natural world, I feel most inspired by birds and trees. The Willow is special to me and was the first tree I planted in my garden when I bought my house.  It would seem that whoever chose this present knew me very well. Yet I was almost certain the gift was from a stranger.

Back in September when I volunteered at the Rude Health Fair, I connected with an older man called Damian.  Sometimes you hear stories of angels disguised as people walking the earth like the rest of us.  For some reason, it crossed my mind that Damian could be one, even though I don't really believe in earthly angels.  We only spoke for 20 minutes or so, but he radiated good energy and left an impression.  He lavished me with praise that day; I’ll never forget his kind words because they really touched me.  Damian asked for one of my business cards before he left my stall.  I wondered if I’d ever hear from again.  I had a feeling I would.

A month later I received a phone call.  Instantly I recognized Damian’s Dublin accent.  We had another meaningful conversation about the importance of spirituality and the challenges of modern life.  I enjoyed reconnecting with him, but tensed when he asked for my address.  He said he’d like to send me a gift someday.

I had a typical American response.  Part of me was afraid that he might turn up at my door and commit a heinous crime.  I’ve had poor judgment about other men.  Maybe I was wrong again!  Instead of an angel, I could be drawing Mr Crazy upon myself!

Fortunately I trusted my gut reaction and chose to remain open.  Before we hung up, Damian explained that his gift would arrive without a word attached to it. Something had reminded him of me, and he promised to send it when the time was right.

I had been curious but never imagined his gift would be so beautiful!  I don’t have his phone number or any way of thanking him, which is the way he must want it.  Perhaps we’ll never meet or speak again.  I am so grateful for such a heartfelt, unconditional gesture!  It gives me hope for humanity.
                                             

*     *     *

Sadly my son accidentally broke the statue and she’s now headless, but the sentiment remains.  Since the time when I wrote the passage above, Damian and I have developed a friendship. Nowadays I hear from him almost every week.  Though we only met briefly that one time, we have a genuine connection.  I’ve come to appreciate the work he does as a high school guidance counselor, and I value his advice.  Sometimes he calls and simply listens while I let off steam.  He has raised 5 children and has been married for close to 30 years.  He knows all about the ups and downs of family life!

He usually sends texts on Sundays with messages such as:
Let your heart soar and your soul fly. Be free. Be at peace.  But most of all... Be.
Forgiveness is the fragrance a violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.  
Sing like birds sing, not worrying who listens, or what they think.  Keep celebrating your uniqueness.


I’ve been inspired by his kind words and continuous generosity.  He has sent me various little surprises throughout the year. Once he randomly sent €20 with specific instructions to treat myself.  The letter arrived on a day when I was really struggling, and the timing couldn’t have been better!  It’s uncanny.  On my birthday I received a mass card with a lovely note attached, even though he doesn’t know when I was born.  He has also given me a couple of books on spirituality. Most recently he sent Awareness by Anthony de Mello.  I also received a copy of Osho’s Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously.  I’m determined to finish reading them in 2013.  Hopefully I’ll be able to apply what I learn to my daily life.

My relationship with Saint Damian (as I’ve come to think of him) is purely unconditional, which is a real blessing.  Who knows if we’ll ever meet face to face again!  It doesn’t really matter.  I’ve also formed bonds with writers online through projects such as reverb.  These friends listen and offer support, they bear witness to my story as it unfolds.  I do the same for them.  In the coming year I’d like to nurture these connections, regardless of the outcome.  

As I approach the New Year, I’m reminded of a quote Damian sent me: “Life is not the pursuit of happiness but the discovery of joy.” I couldn't agree more.

 #Reverb12 is an annual December writing project which aims to reflect on the past year and manifest the next.  Blog, journal, or simply leave a comment. Everyone is welcome to participate! Today’s prompt is from I Saw You Dancing. Follow Kat on twitter @kat_anew

Does Everything Happen For A Reason?

“The unapparent connection is more powerful than the apparent one.” -Heraclitus

Topic #170 Prompt:
They say “everything happens for a reason” – Do you think this is true?

How one answers this question will differ depending on whether spirituality is something embraced or dismissed.  For me, life is mysterious rather than concrete and obvious.  I think of it as a dance- a duet- between the inner and outer worlds. There is a constant flow of energy, ever shifting as our intentions change.  Sometimes it’s difficult to understand events as they occur, but I think every interaction is meaningful.  Each situation presents an opportunity to discover something new, if we’re willing to look deeply at ourselves. Self-transformation is linked to the unfolding of the universe. Therefore I think it’s true that everything happens for a reason.  

Perhaps that sounds irrational to some people, but I’d like to propose that our thinking and judgements have become unbalanced.  We know that our brains are divided into the left (logical, measured, ‘masculine’/ ‘yang’) and right (intuitive, metaphorical, ‘feminine’/ ‘yin’) hemispheres.  While the left brain focuses on separate parts, the right brain sees the whole picture.  Both serve a purpose and are equally valid.  

Western culture emphasizes the importance of a scientific, rational model at the expense of a more holistic viewpoint.  Duality is part of our conditioning from an early age; whether watching cartoons featuring heroes vs. villains when we’re children, or listening to priests at church preach about good vs. evil, we are encouraged to see people and situations in terms of opposing opposites.  This approach is limited and at times downright detrimental.

Totality makes more sense to me.  I’m drawn to Eastern philosophies because of the underlying principles of interconnectedness, encompassing rather than polarizing opposites.

Though I believe everything happens for a reason, I’m not saying I ascribe to fate or think that destiny is predetermined.  We each have free will and our responses can change over time, as we learn from previous experiences.  

The choices I make and how I behave affects others, and the reverse is also true.  Though I am a separate individual, I am always relating to the greater whole.  In this way, all of life is connected.  Each of us has the potential to perceive a sense of ‘oneness’ at any time, simply by tuning in. 

What do you think?  Is life random and chaotic to you or do you believe there’s an underlying order?  How can we achieve balance between linear thought and intuitive perception?

I’ve successfully given myself a headache from thinking too much!  It’s time to have a cup of tea and watch the sun set, one of my favourite ways to connect with the mysterious cosmos.  Thanks for reading my contemplative ramblings… I hope you’ll share some of yours too.

Big hugs,

Robin

Aphrodite Soul Sisters

"Collection" a watercolour painting by Maureen Dietz

Since I joined twitter in March, I have made connections with truly inspiring people.  I welcome interactions with strong, empowered, talented women from around the globe. This past week I was delighted to discover Rashaan Cruzé, author of "fem chic".  Instantly I recognized that she embodies the Aphrodite archetype too.  I was surprised see one of her most recent posts focuses on The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, a book which continues to hold a special place in my heart.  To me this is an example of synchronicity; it’s no coincidence that Aphrodite is revered as the Alchemical Goddess. 

Recently I invited Maureen Dietz, one of my oldest and dearest friends, to share her creativity on my blog.  I was thrilled she agreed to let me post one of her watercolours.  When I saw which painting she chose to share, I was reminded of Aphrodite once more.  The goddess was born in the sea and carried to shore in a shell, as portrayed in Botticelli’s famous painting.  

“Collection” is composed of many shells, both delicate and strong, each shaped as uniquely as a woman’s curvaceous body.  Maureen says, “I thought I could use layers of paint and water to shape images of them on paper, just as layers of water & sediment shaped each one in nature. When I was making this, I enjoyed staring at the shells' details individually but also admired their collected beauty, gathered together in a field of space. I enjoyed the act of bringing them into relationship with one another on the page, like friends meeting and chatting.” 

Relationship

Aphrodite is known for multitasking and has many gifts, but this one word sums up her purpose.  She is the Goddess of Love in its many forms and is present whenever souls connect.  She is a healer of hearts.

I think it’s important to honour this archetype because she has the power to transform what is mundane into something beautiful.  Give Aphrodite a seed and she’ll create a colourful garden or perhaps even a baby. She will weave magic with whatever materials she has.  Whether creating art, dancing, singing, or adorning her body, Aphrodite is full of self-expression.  She also invites us to open ourselves to the sensual pleasures life has to offer.

Is it possible to cultivate this archetype?  She is more developed in some women than others, but we can all welcome Aphrodite into our lives. 

For instance, tomorrow I intend to focus more on my senses.  If it continues to rain, I might shift my attention away from my longing for the sun and instead tune in to the way cool drops feel on my skin.  I’ll continue my search for beauty in everyday experiences.  I'll pick purple Irises from the garden and place them in a pretty vase on my table.  Maybe I’ll be more attentive when my children speak to me; I'll hug them tighter, hold them longer. If I had a partner, I'd show him some love too.  Until I meet my special someone, I'll continue to love and relate to myself.  I'll seek soul food and try to satiate my voracious appetite. Perhaps I’ll have fresh seafood tomorrow, indulge in scallops.  When I teach Latin dance in the morning, I’ll enjoy giving my hips an extra wiggle!  After class, I'll sit in the sauna and take pleasure in the way my muscles feel when they relax.  Whatever I do, it will be done with passion, in the spirit of alchemy.

I hope you will invite Aphrodite and her many soul sisters into your life too!  The magic awaits…


Hugs,
Robin

A beautiful poem for you:  
 

To all that is brief and fragile

superficial, unstable,

To all that lacks foundation

argument or principles,

To all that is light,

fleeting, changing, finite

To smoke spirals,

wand roses,

To sea foam

and mists of oblivion….

To all that is light in weight

for itinerants

on this transient earth

Sombre, raving,

with transitory words

and vaporous bubbly wines

I toast

in breakable glasses.

-Maria Eugenia Baz Ferreira

*A special thanks to Maureen Dietz.  To find out more about her art, she can be contacted at maureendietz@gmail.com

For further reading I'd recommend Jean Shinoda Bolen's book Goddesses in Everywoman: Powerful Archetypes for Women.

Beauty In Belfast

A few days ago I took my first trip to Northern Ireland.  My visit there was brief, but I set myself a task.  I was on the lookout for beauty and planned to photograph it.

My associations of Northern Ireland have always been tainted by violence.  When I first moved to the Republic of Ireland over a decade ago, American friends would ask, “Will you be safe there?” The question frustrated me endlessly.  I’d explain that the Troubles were contained in the North.  I have felt safer living in rural Ireland than I ever felt in the United States.  I can take moonlit walks alone whenever I please; I don’t have to lock my doors or have a security alarm in my home; my children disappear outside for hours playing in the neighbourhood, and I don’t need to worry about kidnappings.  Fear is not something I live with on a daily basis.

Though the situation in Northern Ireland has improved tremendously, last month a young police officer was killed by a car bomb in Omagh, Co Tyrone.  While most people are committed to the peace process, it seems a violent minority will continue to fight their cause.  

It is worrying to see nationalism rising.  On the train to Belfast, I was disheartened reading about Geert Wilder’s increasing popularity in Holland.  His anti-Muslim stance and racist statements are shocking to me.  According to Time magazine, tight immigration laws in Europe are a sign of increasing xenophobia.  Are Muslims the new Jews?  Is fascism gaining strength in society?  It makes sense that when people are dissatisfied, during an economic crisis especially, many will turn to reactionary leaders.  Scapegoating can provide a sense of solidarity and security in a precarious world. 

These questions have been on my mind the last few days.  I planned to write about it before I heard of Bin Laden’s death this morning.  My reaction to the news is conflicted.  Reading my friends’ posts, comments, and general reactions on facebook has been unsettling.  Everyone seems polarized.  One group is celebrating and waving flags, singing the ‘justice has been done’ anthem.  Another group is critical and says violence only fuels the fire.  From my point of view, there is some truth in what they’re all saying.  How can that be possible?

I may not be able to answer that particular question, but I can share my discovery in Belfast.  I arrived with my camera ready.  I photographed some boring buildings and tried to capture a sense of place.  Where could I find an image that depicted the uniqueness of Belfast?  I puzzled and took shots but was unsatisfied by them all.

Then something funny happened.  I let go of my project and surrendered to being present.  That’s when I met Kuba, a Polish banker.  He invited me to a photography exhibit at the Red Barn Gallery.  It was the opening of the Polish Cultural Week.  I was offered free entrance, a glass of wine, and a chance to view Tomasz Tomaszewski’s project: Hades.  It pays homage to manual labourers and people who have lost their jobs due to the global economic recession.  It wasn’t exactly cheerful, but Tomaszewski captured his subjects perfectly.

Afterward, I wondered through the Cathedral Quarter and asked a couple of doormen outside the Four Corners for directions.  An hour later I was still chatting with Larry and Donny.  I could have listened to their Northern Irish accents all night!  We had a few belly laughs but the conversation turned serious as we discussed spirituality.

When Donny brought up Taoism, I had to keep my jaw from dropping.  I am usually the one who initiates that subject; he was speaking my language as he talked about the Middle Way.  It was refreshing to be in the company of someone who shares the same philosophy as me.  Avoiding extremes could benefit everyone these days.  Slowing down, tuning inward rather than projecting out, and committing to developing inner peace could help each of us not only heal ourselves, but also the world we inhabit.

The only photo I have is this one.  It is slightly out of focus because I didn’t stop walking while I took it. Even though the image is blurred, the sentiment is clear.  

Beauty in Belfast

A couple.  Full of hope.  Smiles.  An embrace.   The tenderness of young love.  Can you remember what that feels like?

Whether walking the streets of Belfast, the neighbourhoods in Poland, or the small towns of America, you’ll see the same scene over and over.  Aren’t we all the same despite our many differences?  We love our partners; we want jobs to feed our families; we long for dignity and respect no matter what our walks of life.

In my search to find something that made Belfast different, I discovered common ground instead.


Hugs,
Robin