Bright Star Inspirations

Aug 2009, Matrix, Yuen; dolphins, oranges, neutrality

2009-08-31T21:19:00.000-07:00

Matrix Energetics, and The Yuen Method: Dolphins, oranges and neutrality.

For the month of August, I have spent much of it, and the
latter part of July, in deep contemplation. There is much
shifting on the planet, in relationships, in daily lives. I have
noticed that many of those around me are doing and seeing
much the same as I am. There is a big clean-up taking place
with people noticing and shifting their diets, their exercise
routines, their material items in their house. It is like we are
all getting ready. For the remaining time that exists for
August, I thought I would share with you some experiences
of the work that I have been doing and encountering lately.
Most of you know by now that I am a Certified Practitioner
of Matrix Energetics. I have also just returned from Los
Angeles studying with Dr. Kam Yuen and learning The Yuen
Method. These two methods move a lot of energy very
quickly.

While I was in Los Angeles, my two friends and I had a free
evening. We drove to the Santa Monica pier. The pier was
bustling with glorious summer fun, wet kids, towels, sand,
entertainers performing and the lights beginning to do their
patterns on the big Ferris wheel. We decided to walk along
the beach while we still had sunlight. As we headed out,
we set the intention as a group to see a dolphin. We knew
we only had a certain amount of sunlight left and it was a
pretty busy beach, but we decided to use our knowledge of
Matrix Energetics (M.E.). So we not only set the intention,
but also used the frequencies used in M.E. to send out a
wave of invitation and request to see a dolphin. We stood
for several minutes looking out at the ocean waves. The
waves rolled up and splashed down, but the only things we
saw were the swimmers in our peripheral vision and the
caps of the incoming waves. My one friend even drew the
frequency in the sand. Nothing. We decided to keep
walking.

As we walked, I was drawn to all the flat black rocks that
had been tumbled so smooth they resembled thick coins and
perfect skipping stones. I also picked up opened half shells
of black and blue and white coloring. We continued until
we were 2 miles from the pier, but still had it in sight
behind us. The sun had just dropped past the top of the
mountains in the distance and with no physical sun to see,
we knew our moments of lit visuals would soon be over.
Then just as we decided to head back to the pier, my friend,
Don, spotted the dolphins. There were two of them. They
playfully jumped up and back down again, with a third
dolphin. We hooped and hollered in our excitement! Our
intention to see a dolphin manifested not one but three! And
then behind them, three more jumped up and over and into
the water. Six! And then two more and then two more! We
quit counting, but it seemed there were 3 groups of 3 and
then two playful ones in the back. We stood stunned as the
little guy at the end, jumped up and in and left his tail in the
air and literally waved at us. And we all knew it. He did
not jump up and into the water and just slide in, this was a
dolphin version of a high arm-in-the-air wave, no doubt
about it.

The entire pod of dolphins began to swim toward the pier,
as if knowing that was where we were going, and they were
so close. So close. It was like they were as close as they
could get without the water being too shallow. We all knew
that we could have run out there and been with them if we
wanted to, save bathing suits and the setting sunlight. They
swam alongside our walk for nearly a full mile. We looked
around and noticed that the beach had emptied. This was
just for us. The group of 3 guys we encountered on the way
back had no interest in them when we tried to tell them what
they were missing. It was not for them. It was for us; we
were the ones who called to them.

We could see in the dimly lit ocean that the nearer we
approached the pier, the farther out they had to swim due to
the buoys and rocks protecting the pier and its carnival
setting. Then as they headed out to the ocean, the tail rose
again on one of the dolphins, waving at us, bidding a
wonderful night and a farewell with immense love and joy.
When I returned to Texas, I shared with my family that I had
a special story and that the rocks I brought home for them
were on the same beach as those very special dolphins. It
was a beautiful manifestation that we all used M.E. to
facilitate. Beautiful, touching, deep and confirming.

When working with a client, Matrix Energetics can show up
in incredible ways. I worked with a lady who had a
wonderful M.E. experience in many many ways. But the
part I would like share with you is the lesson of the Orange.
During our M.E. session I saw a perfect orange “pop” out
energetically from her abdomen. And then another and
another and another. I told her what I saw was a perfect
orange, perfect color, perfect shape, perfect for juicing,
perfect for eating . . .it was just “perfect.” And then the
lesson settled in. An orange is exactly as its title suggests.
Its color is orange, its fruit is orange, its juice is orange, and
it is what it is. And orange is perfect in description of its
inner and outer being. It is not like say, a taco, where you
have to describe what it is in, how it is made, the varieties,
and the sizes. It is not a description that has to be
explained. Thus in this M.E. session, the lesson was to be
just what we are, or in this case for the lady to be just as she
is, perfect as she is. No need to change, be described, be
explained, fit into someone else’s description, match the
other people. Just know that in the inner being it is all
perfect, inside and out. And to trust this. Trust this and
understand it.

Dr. Kam Yuen uses this idea as well. He stated in The
Yuen Method (TYM) workshop that any answer that comes
from within is always the right answer, even if it is wrong.
If it comes from inside there is no other answer. It has taken
me several days to integrate my experience with this man
whom many around the world regard in high esteem as a
35th generation Grand Master of Shaolin. Within ten
minutes of meeting Dr. Yuen, his sentence to me was to get
to where I have no need to take any more classes. This
enormity of this statement is stunning and confirming. It’s
about trusting. Trusting that the answers that come from
within with focused intent will always give an answer.
Thus my work with the Yuen Method is fast, efficient and I
have a much greater appreciation for this man and his
method now. Dr. Yuen moves energy so quickly that there
is no need to move through the “highs” of any issue or
emotion. He brings energy to a place of neutral so fast that
people who expect and like to experience the “oh” and “ah”
of energy swings may mistake the experience as nothing
happening. This is far from the truth. I have learned and
been confirmed in how to move energy quickly and
efficiently to a balanced state. There is not a time when it
does not move, it always moves. It may be perceived
differently than expected, but energy always moves.

Dr. Yuen has a wonderful philosophy that miracles are
accidents until you can do them all the time and then they are
routine. I understand what he is saying. We are all capable
in shifting and changing. It does not need to take a long time
to see, feel and be balanced. We are all fully equipped to
love each other and also have a space neutral enough to
create balance.

I worked on my husband who had been having a sore throat
for a couple days. In a matter of 4 or 5 minutes the pain
resolved and the thought process behind it had been
neutralized. I worked on a woman with an issue that
presented itself to me as something different than she
originally described. After several minutes of TYM, we not
only worked on her original complaint but also several
items “not” on the list and she felt a difference immediately.
She also tested strong with muscle testing that the results
were solid.

I have found that each modality I work with is unwinding
into a unique tapestry of healing opportunities. My goal is
to create a space where you remember how to do this
yourself. Remember that you are also a beacon of light,
here for a purpose, experiencing many things, one of which
is to trust yourself. Just like the dolphins appeared and the
oranges teach “perfect” lessons, and the stones on the beach
are like coins of treasure lost to the common observer, I can
see these things and I know you can, too. When you are
ready, come see me and let’s open that up. Just be willing
to look, trust and experience.

Blessings, joy, love, and light to you.

Live well, love well, rest well.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann
and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written
consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this
website, author's name and/or business. Further articles can be viewed on the
blog.

July 2009, Reiki and the Bishop's message

2009-08-04T20:45:00.000-07:00

A Note about Reiki and the Bishop’s message.

If you have not already heard, the Bishop in accordance
with Catholic beliefs has published a doctrine that states a
strong opinion on Reiki. There are several articles that
cover the subject and if you wish to read further, I will post
the links below. At the risk of being blunt and not sugar
coating, in my heart I feel that God does not wish us to
separate ourselves from the experience of feeling Love so
great that it would heal another; whatever creates a healing
is an expression of Love, and God, no matter what words
one uses be it medical terminology, spiritual lingo, or no
language at all. May you be lead by the love in your heart to
experience what matches best for you.

The official document http://www.usccb.
org/dpp/Evaluation_Guidelines_finaltext_2009-03.pdf

William Lee Rand http://www.reiki.org/reikinews/ResponseBishopsStatement.html

Franz and Bronwen Steine, International Reiki Association
http://shibumireiki.org/index.php/blog/article/reiki_and_catholic_bishops

http://www.cinews.ie/article.php?artid=5879

http://reikidigest.blogspot.com/2009/04/catholics-and-reiki-in-wake-of-us.html

New York Times Article - US Nuns Facing Vatican
Scrutiny, July 2 http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/02/us/02nuns.html?
pagewanted=1&_r=2&hp

July 2009 Saying Goodbye and Seeing the New

2009-08-04T08:45:00.000-07:00

Saying Goodbye and Seeing the New

Usually when I sit to write an article for the website, it is
usually in a place where I “feel” the article develop. It is
like it comes from a deeper place within, not just my head
dictating and fingers typing. And yet this time, there has
been a stillness. So many people making their transitions,
Ed McMahn, Farrah Faucet, Michael Jackson, pitchman
Billy Mays, master impressionist Fred Travalena, and actor
Karl Marlden all passed away this week. Reports that
Patrick Swayze and Walter Cronkite’s health are a concern
to many. The world is asking questions about what is going
on that so many people are passing away. But it is not just
this week. There are many places across the globe where a
story is being told about someone’s life, legacy and
adventures. It sometimes just takes a few familiar faces to
get our attention. Farrah’s story could have easily been
someone’s mother or grandmother.

This is not a time of grief in the big picture. Although we
are all entitled to the way we process when our paths cross
and the way in which we walk side by side and the way we
part ways, there is a shift greater than any news tagline
could possibly encompass. These individuals held onto a
particular energy and served a purpose for their own
journey, but also they held a space in the big puzzle of life
and now their piece is put into its place with a soft click.
That means we get to benefit and see a little more of the
picture. Where are we going? What does it look like?

My take on it is this: it’s not the image on the outside of the
puzzle box. We as a whole have shifted an entire level, if
not multiple levels of our consciousness, the capacities of
our hearts, what we can internalize intuitively and how we
connect, what we tolerate and what is now ok to let go. We
breathe deeper, we see clearer, we move with greater ease.
How? You ask. I know there are reports of great turmoil in
the world. What I speak of is not ignoring the world in
which we live in and understanding it is growing, but rather
to appreciate what is different. What is new in our world
that was not there before? I love the quote Dr. Richard
Bartlett uses when he says, “we have all been trained to see
what’s wrong with us. . . .We need to see what’s changing –
changes happen in the blinks of our eyes.”

And so it is, I believe, that whoever got the puzzle going did
us a great service (consciousness awakening). And now
that we are getting the hang of it, the original picture has
changed – as fast as we blink. People that have completed
their purpose in holding energy that was part of a different
kind of picture may choose to leave at this time. The great
joy in this is we benefit from their knowledge, their life
experiences and as this piece is placed into the puzzle it
changes the moment it comes in contact with the rest. Some
may like to call it being the water drop in an ocean –
without all the drops it would not be the vast sea, and yet the
individual drop becomes part of a greater whole.

So when we have losses in life what changes? Sometimes,
the “losses” are really what saves a life. Sometimes it is
what finally gives a person the courage to find their voice or
set boundaries. Sometimes it finally puts together an “ah-
ha” moment of appreciation that is a deeper gift. It does not
mean we will always understand it. What is poison to one,
may be the cure for another. Allow it to be what it is.

So as you reflect on the shifts and changes in the world, you
are free to feel as deeply as you wish as a mass experience,
which you are a part of here on Momma Earth. I know for
me, when Steve Irwin died, I literally felt his spirit go
across the globe like a breeze and it was as if he personally
and individually thanked every creature he ever had contact
with as gratitude and dispersion of his love for critters and
humans. It was magnificent.

What is different? I appreciate. I see differently. I wonder
differently. I opinionate differently – and make up my own
words to express it. I ponder how many pieces of the puzzle
I can put into place by just experiencing and sharing. I
allow. And I trust. I say no. I say yes.

The stories we read about in the celebrity scene are not
unique to just them. They do, however, remind us of where
we are going which is to something different. Be willing to
see what you love in your life, change what does not work,
be mindful of your THOUGHTS as they will be supported
as they are a request. Change the word “negative” with
“non-beneficial” as see what begins to shift in your world.

And breathe. Become aware. You are waking up – on
purpose. It is ok where you are, experiencing what you
need at this time. Allow the heart to be still when needed,
and then give yourself permission to expand – that’s the
puzzle I see. And when I blink, I see more of you shining
brighter!

Breathe, notice what you notice to be different about you, let
go, let go, let go of what you no longer need and be open to
what is different. And allow others the same.

~Bright Star.

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann
and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written
consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this
website, author's name and/or business.

June 2009 Giggle Gifts: a "little reminder" article.

2009-06-05T20:40:00.000-07:00

Giggle Gifts
A “little reminder” article.
I’m sure many of you have heard of the expression “Laughter is the best medicine.” Sometimes there are legitimate explanations for such remedies and sometimes there is only the sound of laughter itself that will cure a serious heart. While attending a workshop in Seattle I came across firsthand what the stream of unexpected “tee-hees” can do. A couple from Florida with straight stoic gazes attended the same workshop I did and sat not too far from where my hotel roommate, Amy, and I had situated ourselves during an evening break-out session. A presenter and several audience participants demonstrating a specific technique stood upon a stage in front of just under 500 hundred people. The lights were lowered and the key lights for the stage were lit. And then it happened.

On the far right side of the ballroom, one woman in the front row began a small giggle, to herself mostly. It quickly spread to the ladies around her like giggle gas bubbles contaminating the air and soon these three ladies were becoming quite distracting, red faced and bouncing. It was irritating to many and a little rude to others. Their giggles began to spread to the rows behind them with just a tickle here and there to some unexpected bystander trying very hard to maintain focus on the presentation. It got to be where the giggles from the ladies in the front row on the far right side developed into out-right laughter and they chose to remove themselves chuckling right out of the ballroom and into the hall where an explosion of peals of laughter ensued that we could all hear from the now closed door.

The stoic couple I mentioned earlier looked at these women as needing to get it together, clearly they were acting out of control, which resulted in annoyance and irritation. But even though the Gigglers had left the room, their giggle germ had already spread to the people around them. Slowly, so slowly, it moved through the air to more people. Little bubbles of silliness floated around popping near me, in the center of the ballroom, and I found my own self beginning to giggle at the pure embarrassment of such an ordeal. And then it became funnier. Here I was in the middle of the ballroom, third row center and feeling the energy begin to flow in ways that at this point were becoming hard to swallow quietly. My body began to bounce and shake with slow tears escaping my eyes as I tried very hard to not repeat the experience of the Giggle ladies. I even thought to myself how annoying this must be to Amy sitting so quietly next to me; it was getting close to the bubble boiling point. It even triggered a childhood event that I never thought I would ever share in print.

I was taken back to a time where I was at church with my mom and the congregation was standing. I was bored out of my mind at age 8 or 9 and in the middle of a forest of adults a deep yawn came up and out. While I was totally engaged in this complete open mouth yawn, I burped. But since my muscles were totally occupied in the stretching of this full-bodied yawn, I could not close my mouth in time and out came a deep-from-my-gut growl – the perfect combination of a long yawn and resonating belch. I looked at my mom with wide embarrassed eyes as my mouth and gut are performing noises and stretches with what seemed to me without my consent. The people in front of us also turned around to see my mouth open spaciously, my eyes open wide and feeling out of control as my body roared on its own. I was so embarrassed and amused all at the same time that my mom and I both got the giggles so badly that it was as if we were the ladies in the front row far right side almost 25 years later at this workshop. It too closely resembled the feeling of “What can you do, now?” It is already out there.
And then it happened.

The lady from the serious couple, who a moment before was absolutely disgusted with the out of control experience of the Gigglers felt herself beginning to giggle, then deeply felt out of control in this experience. The bubbles of giddiness had settled in her lap. She decided that she would not let out the burst of laughter she felt building and tried with all her might to leave the ballroom. She stood up and looking horrified, hand to her mouth, leaning head first charged for the door as if she was about to vomit uncontrollably. She did not make it. About 12 feet from the door, she could not hold it in any longer. This disciplined woman, who the next day said she has always been so serious she did not even play as a child, was exploding with laughter so deeply that I visually saw the energy like a bucket of water being thrown – her laughter splashed all over the place and we could all hear her even once she got to the hallway hooting and cackling hysterically. That is what sent me over the edge. I then could not control my own laughter any longer. I then had to leave the ballroom, holding my own scarf over my face hoping I would at least make it to the door, unlike my “serious” friend who unleased 12 feet from the door. I left my hotel roommate and friend, Amy, alone in the ballroom as several of us aired ourselves out in the hall and around the grounds.

When I returned, the giggles in the ballroom had quieted, but not left completely. I ended up on stage with the presenter and some participants, when another participant did an action that sent my friend, Amy, into laughter she had tried to keep under wraps and out of the ballroom she went. Wave after wave, the giggles made their way across the ballroom from the far right side to front and center. I think we must have used it all up, because I heard the following day that there were a few people on the far LEFT side of the ballroom who viewed the whole thing as, you guessed it, annoying and irritating. A few even left the session, and not due to laughing. Oh, did they miss out.

Amy and I ended up with the giggles for hours, and even after that we still laid in the dark of our shared hotel room for 20-30 minutes laughing instead of sleeping. It just took one of us to breathe wrong to send us into hysterics. It was so freeing and light and life changing for the one “serious” lady as she was out of control in her laughter, her weightiness was not seen again the rest of the workshop. Not even on the way to the airport as she smiled and joked on the shuttle; I thanked her for her experience because it brought me to mine. I have not laughed that deep, that hard, that long for no apparent reason since who knows when. Whoo-wee, was that ever great.

And the presenter? I am sure some of you are asking if it was a complete disaster to the presentation. Fortunately, this particular workshop works with energy and completely understands such things. And the lady presenting has also had such experiences on stage before so she just rolled with it. At that point when a big portion of 500 people have the giggles, you can’t help but go with the flow anyway. It is contagious and liberating.

May you have the experience of complete and utter joy to the point of body-bouncing laughter, tears of unexpected heart-expanded happiness and life changing reminders how silly seriousness can be. May your heart be as blessed as mine has been in the gentle reminders of joy in unexpected ways.

And just to keep in the spirit fun, in the words of my husband, “bring home a Penguin” – whatever that means . . .

Love, love, love to you,
Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann
and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written
consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this
website, author's name and/or business.

May 2009 Collecting Crystals, the treasure hunt.

2009-06-05T20:37:00.000-07:00

Collecting Crystals, the treasure hunt.

While walking along the beach, a landscape of endless grains of sand are before you. Your toes sink with each pressure change from heel to toe, from step to step, from shifting in motion to maintaining balance while still; it supports you. These grains of sand, too numerous to count are each themselves small pieces of dirt, rock, minerals, shells, bone and crystals. When an unblemished shell is found in this vast terrain of sand granules, a treasure is in the hands of the one who picked it up. And while to another, the broken shell with swirls of colors is far more interesting. The treasure is still in the heart of the observer.

Imagine if you will, Dear Observer, a cluster of perfect crystals with powerful terminations (points) and flawless color. Where we find this cluster of immense sustaining beauty is within our sense of Being and our heart. Sometimes as we go through our journey we feel compelled to share our love and light by distributing this great inner beauty by giving a piece of crystal structure to another. If we distribute enough of our crystal pieces to others, we are left with a very small piece of our self. It is in this example that we give ourselves away, trying to please those around us, trying to create connections with others in a way that we hope they will see value in us. When we return to the person and ask them, quiet innocently, “Are you taking good care of that part of me?” The person will probably say yes. If asked repeatedly it changes the meaning to, “I need you to take care of me.” If we ask enough times how well the person is taking care of us, the person may just decide that this is a) obviously something very special and may want to return it to its rightful owner to have it be in its proper location or b) decide that if they need to take that much care of it, it inhibits their own movement in life and they wish to give it back.

The one who has handed out all his special crystals pieces no longer has the solid foundation in themselves any longer – all personal power is in the hands of others. When an occasion of a returning of a piece of Self/crystal piece takes place, it can be viewed as rejection -
“You’re giving it back?!” translates to “You don’t want me?” It is the lack of person foundation that has created a sense of un-empowerment. As pieces of ourselves come back to us, the opportunity for gratitude in the recreation of inner strength presents itself. It really does not have to be about rejection, but more about reconnection. There are gifts both ways when pieces of puzzles are put into place, even if it wasn’t the piece we were looking for.

If we choose to view transformations and avenues in creating healing, even if it does not appear to look that way initially, there is great power in this choice. Whether we are handing crystals back to their owners (not being responsible for others’ wellbeing/ happiness/ sustainability) or asking for our pieces to return to us (speaking up for ourselves, choosing differently, thinking more highly of ourselves) change takes place.

I have told many of my clients and students lately that even if we don’t see an immediate change before our eyes when we are working with energy in my studio, the trajectory has still changed in their life- both of our lives actuality. Small or big in the angle of change, change is still change. And transformation can alter a life. It can heal a heart, free a spirit, give a voice to the quiet and melody to a song. What we see as change can be treasure if we choose to allow ourselves the opportunity to hold it, bringing the pieces back to the solid foundation it was meant to be.

We share ourselves in many ways; we give of our time, our food, our homes, our material goods, our shoulders and ears. We play, laugh and cry. We express emotions, share interests, point out other ways to see things; we are connected already. There is no need to give yourself AWAY. Everything – EVERYTHING – is a treasure. Even what one sees as broken will fit the perfect opening somewhere. In quantum physics, all things are possible. If all things are possible, why not you just being you, complete and whole, broken or still in the plastic factory seal – you are a treasure to someone – Yourself as an expression of Divinity.

So I challenge you – It’s time to go on a treasure hunt. It is your purpose in life to find all the crystal pieces you have hidden or given away. No one can take them from you without your consent. They are yours and it is of your power they change direction and location. All those pieces that are scattered in the hands of others bring them back in to your life. All those pieces that you are holding on to that do not belong to you, it is time for them to return home. Home to the place where joy and peace and love reside – in the hearts and inner Beings of each of us.
May your journey be blessed in the finding of your most precious treasure – yourself. It is in the finding of you that you find you are as vast as the sand beneath your feet – shifting in motion and maintaining balance when still. In finding you, you find the bigger picture and connections to all you were seeking in the first place; love.

In this space, there is no need to guard, horde, protect, or feel violated if one approaches such a treasure as yours. They simply see your beauty and find value in you being you (and wasn’t that what you were seeking in the first place?). Go, treasure hunters, it is time to collect crystals. May your gems shine brighter than you had ever known to imagine.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann
and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written
consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this
website, author's name and/or business.

April 2009 Keep your Eye off the Ball.

2009-06-05T20:33:00.000-07:00

Keep your eye off the ball.

In our society, we have been so incredibly trained to keep our eye on the ball that we begin to lose sight of all that around us. And not only that, but according to quantum physics, as long as I keep my eye on the ball I effect its ability to change by simply gazing up on. How does that work, you ask? I may not be able to explain the same way as a physicist would, but I would love to share an example or two of taking your eye off the ball.

In our efforts to figure “stuff” out, whether it is what is wrong with our physical body or why your spouse acts the way they do, or why childhood things still creep into your decision making process as an adult, or how to get out of stuck places, we search for the initial problem. I have studied many modalities where going to the source of the problem can be the key to clearing up the issue. I happen to be one of those people out there who can tap into past lives and other realities, so finding the source of the issue might mean something different to me than it does to you. However, in our infinitely creative ways of being, sometimes if our brain knows what “really” happened, it dwells on it rather than just using the information to go forward. So trained have we been to describe what is wrong. The lists of symptoms, the reasons why we can’t, won’t, don’t do what we really want to do. Ugh. We have been trained very well to find the problem.

I’d like to retrain you. Or detrain. Or rather entrain. Entrainment, not entertainment (although that is just as valuable), is that moment when two or more things come to a place of single rhythm. Like 10 people singing. At first they will be higher, lower, louder, softer; all different and easy to pick out whom is who doing what. Then after a bit, the voices will naturally begin to meld together in pace, quality and it appears they have found a place on an unseen grid to slide their sounds on with ease. Kind of like a ballerina on ice skates; effortless beauty, gliding with grace.

In a recent workshop I took, I loved the way of describing letting go. Most people don’t really understand the concept of letting go. They are afraid if they let go it might go away. Of course, many of might think, and wouldn’t that be the point? Yeah, for the other rest of us, it would be. But remember, we have been trained! Must keep our eye on the ball! If you quit watching the ball and it changed, what would you watch then? If we didn’t have our things wrong with us, who would we be?
Dr. Richard Bartlett of Matrix Energetics describes the idea using quantum physics in a wonderful way. For our purposes, and for fun, I’ll describe it with my own take on it. If we look at our list of symptoms as the problem, it is natural that we would like to find the solution. If I find the solution, which ball am I going to keep my eye on – the problem or the solution? If I keep my eye on the problem, the mere act of my gaze locks the problem into an experience of my limiting watchful eye. If I stare at the solution, it is in essence not allowing it to move forward because I’m staring at it. Finding a solution to a problem in our previous training brings two images to mind: 1) telling the issue it can go and yet holding onto the belt loop so it can’t move. And 2) Conversely, it reminds me of the old gag my dad would pull with his hand on my head keeping me at arm’s length so I couldn’t touch him no matter how I stretched my arms toward his body. Neither position allows full movement of neither the problem nor the solution to create change.

Now what if just for a moment it didn’t matter to me what the outcome was. Just for a moment. In that quick moment, an instantaneous miracle could absolutely take place. How? Because in the moment that I said I wasn’t personally invested in the outcome, it is like taking my hands out of the belt loop. In those 60 seconds, opportunity for change is present. And we all have heard the saying about liking the present, because that means gifts!

In quantum physics, it is stated that human consciousness does indeed have a force. Intention has a force. This force can be harnessed, yes. But what if when we moved our human consciousness out of the moving force and just let the intention and magic of the molecules do their stuff, just for a second, you open up to infinite possibilities. When you look at anything, you settle your eyes on only one possibility, which is sometimes called collapsing the wave into manifestation or into being. What if there was a possibility that served you, but had more than what your brain could imagine! Wouldn’t you think about maybe giving door #2 a try if it became a possibility, if you knew there was a door #2? You might have to not look at door #1 to notice . . .

If we could allow ourselves the experience of entrainment to the what if’s of incredible possibilities, the doors of opportunity blow open with a breeze of far greater potential than we have been trained to look for. You don’t have to hold that space forever if you are not ready to do that yet. You are entitled to watch that ball, and see it up close and personal when it hits you square. Or you can be willing to step into the possibility of what if at the last minute it curved? Or I can imagine Dr. Bartlett saying, “Or turned into a ball of blue slime?” Ok you might not be ready for that lesson in quantum physics, but I think you can handle relaxing for a minute.

The point I am trying to make is there are an infinite number of possibilities of any particular situation and view point. If I identify a place that I would like to see change and know there is a solution out there, the best choice I can make is to allow the solution to make the changes by moving out of the way. This is not to be confused with passive behavior, or waiting for God to handle it for you. It is an active participation in energy movement and then a softening, an allowing of transition to take place with a greater potential than I could possibly imagine.
On the scientific level, photons move in two directions. If a trauma or injury or block of some sort is moving in one direction, the inverse of that energy can be identified from the other direction. When the inverse energy comes from the opposite direction and crosses the path with the block, it cancels itself out. Homeopathy calls that like cancels like. This is how miracles happen. A change in energy changes the outcome. It changes the perspective. It changes the body.
Another great example of Dr. Bartlett is throwing a rock in a pond. You can control which rock you choose, but once it leaves your hand, the magic that happens is beyond your control; concentric circles of moving energy through the water. These changes I am speaking of here are like the moment you throw the rock, there is a relaxing, a breath you take, like taking your eyes off the ball, allowing changes to move like ripples in the body, healing occurs.

So let’s return to entraining. Imagine that you now become the water and you throw your own rock (or coin into a wishing well, if you like). Imagine when your rock or coin drops into the water, you have made your wish. Now, step back from it, disengage just for a moment from the outcome. Just observe the movement. Feel what it would feel like if the ripples moved through your body, gently, consistently, rhythmically. When you can become entrained in the motion with the waves and just BE in the energy, not forcing change, not making them bigger or smaller, just allowing – it is in that moment you have taken your eye off the ball, so to speak, and are allowing the quantum physics of changes to manifest. By not looking, change happens, by throwing the rock or coin, change has been initiated, but releasing lets it manifest.

Give it a try. Just see what happens. Dr. Bartlett says to simply “notice what you notice.” Don’t force, just be. And instead of looking for what is wrong after you give it a try, ask yourself what is different. Move forward in your thinking. If you are not sure, just keep asking, “What is different?” Even something as small as a deep breath can be significant.

Live well, love well, be well.
~Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann
and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written
consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this
website, author's name and/or business.

The Answer to No Answer.

2009-03-01T20:48:00.000-08:00

Occasionally, I do an unexpected research journey. By this I mean I am taken from one subject to another via the vast internet that somehow mysteriously leads me to the perfect tidbit of information either for myself or another. I am sure I am not unique in this phenomenon. It is like I am lead down a serious of hallways and doors just to find treasures with each opening. And sometimes I am there just to take a peek, other times I get to take “home” a souvenir. In one such case I was led link by link to a blog authored by Fred Alan Wolf (I’m still not sure how I ended up on his blog page, but it was fun to find). He is best known as the wild and crazy quantum physicist in the movie “What the Bleep do we know?” In one of his blog spots he relayed one of the many stories of Buddha.

In this story, Buddha is approached by a follower who asks, “Is there a soul?” Buddha responds with silence. The man then rephrases and asks, “My Lord, is there no soul?” Buddha again says nothing. The man leaves with no answers. A disciple who had been watching the whole event approaches and asks Buddha why did he not answer the man’s question – either one of them. Buddha calmly responds, had he answered yes to the first question, he would be supporting the ideology and all implications that come with indeed there is a soul. Had he answered yes to the second question, Buddha would be supporting the suggestions of all those who believe there is no soul. In fact, Buddha goes on to say to his disciple, that both are correct and both are of no consequence. To explain to the student that we are both a soul and not a soul would create confusion. An attempt to explain that a soul does AND does not exist would not help the questioner. In my words, it is like saying there would be no compartment for such information and trying to it fit into any particular box would produce turmoil rather than peace.

Mr. Wolf goes on to imply that in science and those who really understand the nature of science have an understanding that there are no absolutes. That even “hard” evidence in being able to reproduce a result does not mean it is ever “the end”. Even I recall from basic science, energy is in motion and only changes shape and form, but does not disappear. And thus, those who understand the deepest levels of science, in particular the large percentage of science that is apparent but not absolutely provable by “hard” evidence such as quantum physics, also know that to explain the deepest levels of our spiritual mystical selves is just as impossible and will change and move much like “energy” changing shape and form, but never disappearing.

Thus we are left with the quandaries of conflicting information, no absolutes and an answer to one question may counter the next question. And yet it is possible for both to be correct. Our outlook in life so often gives us this experience where we wish to have an absolute, an unshakable solid ground in which we know we can stand upon. Yet, again as we delve into science, the solid ground really isn’t solid, now is it? There is a lot of space between those molecules that make up dirt and rock. Our ideas make up our world and create expectations in which our world shall appear before us. Thus we go out to prove an answer to one of our questions.

Friends and family give input to their theories and provings of their experiments of what they know and what they have read, etc. Perhaps they have found (or been told to find) a certain answer. When we begin to question and search and find that maybe, just maybe, it is more than, it can create confusion like Buddha’s curious one had Buddha answered. And when we begin to create an idea of our own truth, finding ways that do not “fit in the box” may bring feelings of being separated for some.

When I was in college, I decided that I could not decide on being an art major or a creative writing major. So I decided to conduct my own personal experiment and take an art class and a writing class (both upper levels) in a single semester and see which one was more fun when taken seriously. The winner would be my major. Silly as it sounds as a means to pick a journey of a lifetime, it was the easiest way for me to see what I would do surrounded in the energy of such an exercise. So I wrote and I created art. I chose art in the end, deciding that writing just took too much of my time. I had other things to do, like study my favorite classes of philosophy and philosophy of religion. It was not on my radar yet to have a third option as a life passion, since I asked only two questions: Is it art? Is it writing? It was not until much later did I realize that while I loved learning and doing art, what really held my attention was the philosophical perspectives people held and how these very beliefs created a day, a marriage, a life, and a death. And how these beliefs can create change or prohibit change.

Had someone suggested philosophy as a possibility it would have created confusion for me in that semester of proving my major. I was focused elsewhere – art or words, art or words, what do you mean “thoughts/beliefs?” I had no way of knowing that once I moved into the possibilities of myself that all and none of the above would be so present in my life. My very being is filled with creative expressions with writing these articles, writing books and manuals for my students, recording a CD, designing my studio space. It is both my “majors” that I thought I had to choose between. But most importantly, the assimilation of the both together, along with the third “option” of philosophy is very present in my life. I teach others to expand thinking out of the box. I show others “door number 3” (and 4 and 5 and 6, etc.). The journey does not end. There are no absolutes. There is nothing for you to prove except what you know is true for you. And that truth is an energy, moving and changing shape, but never disappearing.

As you grow, expand, have experiences, do experiments, prove findings, you will also find the further you explore any subject, there really is no “it.” The “it” factor that is so important in the beginning of many of our journeys is like telling Buddha or any other deity,” give me the yes and I’ll finally know the truth.” When the lead character in Kung Fu Panda, Po, realizes that there is no secret ingredient (sorry about the spoiler) in his Dad’s special soup, his father explains, the people believe it is special therefore it is so. “There is no secret ingredient” and yet belief is the actual secret ingredient. It may not have been a scientifically provable physical ingredient, but the metaphysical ingredient is present.

My dear ones, questions we ask ourselves are often meant to get us moving toward a direction. “Hmm, I wonder what that is about?” I ask as I click from link to link to find another groovy internet educational, philosophical or artistic expression. Whether I am lead by my own soul or by no soul at all, I only know that I am lead. I do know that deep in my own heart, I contain some kind of secret ingredient. And it is an ingredient worth sharing, regardless of physical authenticity. As are you.

Like the season of seasons, pepper of events, and the salt of experience, moving into the possibility of who you are and living it can be out of box. And yet, when one person steps forward into their possibilities, the energy changes shape all around you! Nothing disappears, nothing is left behind that you find valuable. It is interesting, though, what we find of value does change. Do not be concerned about unanswered questions nor the ideas of what you started with. It changes and so will you. The only thing I know for certain is in this moment I feel all spaces between the solid appearances. And in this moment, change happens. It is both still and moving. All and none. I type, I write, I am none of these words and yet they come from me, or rather more accurately, through me. To be confused is to mean that you know of something or you would not know to be confused. Thus we begin to ask, and then we change. Share what you know, be open to change, believe that there is always more, always more!

Take heart, you may not have answers for others when they ask you, either. Sometimes we grow when the answers that are placed before us are not to the questions we ask, but to the questions we have yet to ask. Let the Earth breathe wonders upon you and the ocean, well, the Sufi poet and theologian, Rumi says it best: ”I have one small drop of knowing in my soul. Let it dissolve in your ocean.”

Breathe deep, Light of Lights, you are the unprovable absolute.

~Bright Star

Feb 09 Let your dreams fly (includes meditation)

2009-02-01T22:09:00.000-08:00

Ah - sweet breath in, sweet breath out. Not only is February a personal favorite month of mine, and it is not "just" because it is my birthday month along with many other family members birthday's and events in this time frame, but February is one of those "mystery" months. Somehow being one day short most years and one day fuller on some years seems to make a difference to people. I wrote about that concept last year and do not plan to explore it again here, but there is a certain sweetness in good ol' Feb.

It cannot be pointed totally to all the red boxes filled with totally-not-good-for-the-body-but-my-tongue-likes-it chocolates for Valentine's Day. But I have to say, it would make for a good argument in that direction of sweetness. Nope, that's not it. I think Valentine's Day itself does seem to be part of it, though. February sits between the after-Holiday slump that some get into (although I do not understand that myself, the New Year is exciting in my opinion) and the resolution thing people do to themselves and the change into spring.

February is when gardeners begin to prepare and plant. February is when the perfect excuse to show love, when you may not normally do so, is made available. It is a time when people begin to change their energy to actual manifestation. January and the new year energy get it going, but February is when it begins to take shape.

Let's get some form and shape into your wonderful January energy, if you haven't already! January saw us move through the Presidential inauguration with global audiences watching this very important historical event. Do you realize what that means? It means that in some way any energy sent from you, here in America is being cheered on by many around the globe! They may not realize your particular goal or your individual endeavor, but there are people here in the US and on every continent who are watching the changing energy swirl into something new and strong. They want us to succeed. This is a wonderful time to use this mind consciousness to add to our already moving momentum. It is already changing lives for those I know.

So far I have seen businesses take shape and be launched, Empowerment groups form, babies be born and pregnancies confirmed, relationships shifting with both releases and connections, healings of the heart are allowing decisions to be made, garages are being swept clear to make room for new , new , new! If you have hesitated at all about making changes, now is the time to begin big or small, but we are with you! Let's go!

Take a deep breath and let yourself go into the following mediation with an open heart to change, a sense of freedom and blessings with your mind at ease and your heart at peace.

Imagine yourself atop a mountain overlooking a great valley and mountain ranges. In your outstretched hands you have all your doubts and fears, memories and thoughts that you held you back for years. A soft breeze of perfect temperature comes and gently, safely, gathers up and takes the doubts and fears. Off they go, held gingerly by the breeze, cradled by some unseen force and you know that all these troubles will be cared for and loved as if the breeze is acknowledging that no matter how these doubts and fears have been perceived, they are an essence that came from a special being - you. There is only goodness that comes from you, and in this goodness transformation takes place.

Take a deep breath in. With your out breathe, love is felt, relief is felt, joy is felt. Your shoulders drop to a comfortable position. The doubts and fears you first began with are changing to flower petals of all colors, drifting, moving away from you on this powerful and gentle breeze. They twirl and swing, happy to be free, dancing and waving goodbye to you, thanking you for the chance to feel the sensation of freedom and love. They are free, they are safe and so are you.

Now before you, see your empty hands. Place in them the ideas, desires, thoughts of all your positive intentions this year, right now, with all the support of everyone else who is doing the same thing you are. Imagine that there are many people on every continent holding the same place you are atop the highest mountains also creating their next steps and planning their thoughts into a manifestation of gratitude of being, and feeling the connection of everyone's love and support. You are supported and we are all holding our dreams in our outstretched hands.

Take a breath in. With love and a feeling of empowerment, blow out onto your hands, set these dreams free into the world to take shape, to fly to the perfect person, the perfect resource, the perfect day, time, place for all elements to align with your endeavor. Your next step is already in motion. Your thoughts are being supported by the world in great detail and synergy. The whole world is looking to align and help you be successful. You have the realms of greatness cheering you on like a runner crossing the finish line - the cheering is uplifting! Breathe in JOY, breathe out gratitude!

There is a noise behind you. You turn to see that a familiar face. They have been inspired by what they saw you do - release your worries into flower petals and set out your intentions to meet with their aligners. They, too, want to give it a try, but seem unsure. You sense their hesitation and you hold out your hand. They take it. Ah, sweet breath in, sweet breath out, you have just given them the support to do the same as you have. Guide them to the top of the mountain, without words, and simply be there supporting the space for another's dreams to take flight.

Relax into your body knowing that the perfect sunset is watching over the flight of your intentions and the intentions of your loved one. A loving breeze runs through your hair and you know that is it done. All is well and all is done.

Take three deep breaths, each time bringing yourself further back into this time line feeling renewed, refreshed and empowered. You are in alignment with all you have set before you. All will take place with perfect timing and with ease and wisdom.

In gratitude, remember to share a smile with someone you love, inspire them to step up to the mountain top be simply being willing to go there yourself anytime for any intention.You have my support from my mountain top that all for the highest good for all involved take place with the most benevolent outcomes achieved.

February is the month of snuggle bugs, heart hugs, pink kisses and I love you's.

I love you, consider yourself hugged.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this website, author's name and/or business.

Jan 09 Out with the old, in with the new

2009-02-01T21:54:00.000-08:00

Many of you have followed my journey of this last year in 2008 with some strange physical items like the hole in my jaw bone and the long lasting sinus infection that had me ill for over 2 months. To bring you all up to speed without having to relive and re-explain either of those events I can now say with certainty that there are reasons for all things.

Finally in December I received the answer to my question of "What IS UP with all of this?" I had at this point been telling my students, clients, family and friends for months part of what I was going through was a very deep cellular healing having to do with no one else except me (meaning that it was not a contagious thing). The other part I felt was grief; so many changes and transitions, many trips back home for funerals and while I felt strong for all of these events(7 total for the year), my body needed to release the grief. And lastly, because I was so low on energy, it shifted my vibration and yes, at this point there was most likely some type of illness involved in the mix. And then the answer came.

I was given a book which I randomly opened to a page and read a single sentence that facilitated the rest. I was reminded in the book passage about the body rejuvenating all of its entire cellular structure over a period of seven years. This means that every cell in the body at the end of any given seven year span is individually new. Voila, a whole new cellular body. Now, obviously it retains the cellular memory and function of the previous one which is why reoccurring issues continue to tag along for decades for some people repeating the patterns of not only our personal life experience, but also that of our ancestors. And yet, when one realizes there is a possibility to re-set the cellular structure with the potential to change the new cell, which will change the cell after that and so on, a shift in the physical, structural, mental, emotional, spiritual, holographic, micro and macro levels are CHANGED!

Ah, now I get it. What may have taken seven years normally was being catalyzed at warp speed in my body. So instead of taking a nice long seven years to go through the inventory cell by cell, my body was moving out old energy, which means out with the old cells physically in a matter of months, in order to make room for the new cells which have the capacity to hold higher vibrations, different frequencies, are made of more light, less dense, more clarity in purpose - the list goes on! When I intuited there was a deep cellular healing going on I had no idea how accurate that really meant. My body did a complete overhaul, including the need to sleep several times a day at one point in order to keep up with the changes. At the time it was all very confusing, creating frustration, anger, fear and brought up things I had not thought of in a long time, stuff that felt familiar but not completely mine (old OLD stuff from previous times). Items that I did not realize I pacified for so long were front and center with no time to discuss, they either stayed or went. The call was swift and shocking in some cases. In or out.

It reminded me of the organizational technique where if you are not sure if you want to keep something or give it away, you seal it in a box, putting it somewhere safe, the garage, attic, closet, etc. If you do not open the box within a year, your item obviously was not that important or else you would have needed it sometime in the year. The trick is then to get rid of the box WITHOUT opening it. If you open it, you could hold onto the box another year with the same "what if . . . ?" questions. Swift and sure, in or out. Stays or goes. No discussion, no debate. In the case of my own personal little self, I felt like my body was moving out pallets, not boxes.

Then the rest of the confirmations kept coming. I did a follow up with the endodontist (the one I went to to try to save my tooth and help my jaw bone). She originally gave me a 60% success rate on saving the tooth as it was so infected and thus the bone was suffering creating a hole, two holes actually. I had expected a rate of 85% or higher so 60% felt pretty disappointing. At the follow up, also in December, she stated "if anyone can heal bone like that without an antibiotic, then they have some pretty good healing in them!" She announced she was impressed at the rate of healing and amazed at the results of the bone structure. (She even did a mini bow with both hands up and down, up and down to emphasize the level of impressiveness). What a relief! I was having symptoms of something going on and she was able to help me determine a crack in a different tooth, that again, under "normal" circumstances may have been overlooked for a long time and resulted in a root canal, but my sensitivity to my body is so heightened right now, the time-warp speed journey has given me an opportunity to save this tooth quickly with a crown. The physical body was changing!

And to top it off, I was given another book (by the same person who gave me the cell reminder book, Sally, my Reiki Master) by Allison DuBois. Some of you may know her as the woman they based the TV series Medium after. It was so strange to read parts of her story; she was born one month, one day and one year apart from me in the same state I was born in. The part that struck me was when she was a child she talks about doing a very particular thing. It was the same thing I did as a child! We would create barricades with our stuffed animals, having them act as protectors (to what who knows except it was something different and unseen) in order to sleep at night. Obviously, now I would explain that as being energy sensitive. In my own case I remember using my "big bear" (who still lives with me and really IS big), and Fozzie Bear from the Muppets and all the animals I had, including a pillow to be on my left and right sides and above my head. I remember it being important to have the area above my head protected.

How does that tie-in you ask? It is a reminder to me of the things I have always known, always had in me and are now reawakening once again. It is a form of a Spiritual Awakening on a small level. I consider myself to be fairly intuitive. I can connect with some loved ones who have passed over and sometimes for others as well (though not to the depth as Allison DuBois, John Edwards or any other famous psychic medium). I sense Angelic Beings, guides and what I call "Helpers". I pick up past lives, current glitches, interference in energy of a room or situation. I can determine most times the emotion behind the questions or hiding in a body. It is a gift. A heightened sense of connection to gain information to help myself, others, living and passed, animals and the spaces in between.

Reiki has been attributed to Mikao Usui as he had a Spiritual Awakening and brought back the essence of healing in this particular modality. I do not know if my continued spiritual growth is going to have quite the impact that Usui did on the world, but by golly, the smallest of pebbles ripple forth a circle in the pond when dropped. There is no reason why you cannot make your own wave with your own spiritual awakening, as well. Does it mean you have to wake up one day and know how to spontaneous heal though your hands? Does it mean you need to go through a major physical detoxing? Quite frankly, I do not have that answer. Perhaps. Perhaps not.

What I do know for certain is I am here, I am a pebble just tossed into a pond and I am one who is tossing pebbles. I am making a circle by my movements, I am part of a circle, I am a circle. I am all these things and so are you. Trust in yourself even while the craziness of any situation seems to be at a loss for words, know that a part of you is casting a rope for you to be guided by. Many of us have experienced a turbulent second half of 2008, know in your heart it was on purpose. Like me, many are shedding the old ways, mentally, emotionally and physically in order for us to be ready for the magnificent energy to come in 2009. We are being readied because we are ready. And that means taking off our dirty, old grass-stained socks with the holes and being upgraded so we can walk comfortably forward (or be still for the first time) because, by golly, WE ARE the reason for all things. It is here, it is us. Divinity in its many forms is you and me.

If you could feel the presence of the Divine in every golden cell in your body, what sound would you make? &Would you sing? Would you breathe deeply? I think if you listened closely, you would hear your own name.

Live in love, rest well, be well, know joy and peace in the year 2009. It is yours. So be it and so it is.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2007-2009 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this website, author's name and/or business.

Dec 2008 Birds of change, shine bright.

2008-12-27T22:40:00.000-08:00

The year 2008 is flying downward to rest its wings and nestle its head against a very tired downy breast. Like a dear bird who has survived seasons of sunshine and rain and snow and wind, this year has had events that will literally go into the history books for many to learn from years from now. This year has brought many things that were incredible and unpleasant. The greatest gift of this is the ability we have to create change when the unpleasant becomes unacceptable.

The year to come will have challenges as we begin to ask ourselves and others to count ourselves as part of a whole, not so much as individually separate. This is not to say that individuality will disappear - we need those persons who stand out in a crowd; they teach us what we desire to strive toward and also what we decide is not our cup of tea. And this does not mean that we will become one gigantic farm commune with one big kitchen. What it does mean, though, is there will be a greater movement toward gathering like minds/ energy toward a greater awareness, a softer kindness and a gentler heart toward those who you have always known were there, but didn't include. Like Earth, for instance.

We often times need the situation to get our attention before we choose to take action. The gas prices, the economy, the relationships sometimes have to get really challenging before we decide to make a change. The trick is when making any changes, to do it with a sense of freedom, a sense of heavy weights being lifted off ones shoulders knowing that once you begin any journey you are never at square one again. Every step is forward. Even when things have the appearance that nothing is changing or the results are not what was anticipated, you still know more on this day than yesterday. Experience alone is a teacher. Doing nothing is a choice and can still teach many valuable things.

Often when I am coaching a client to learn to listen to their intuition and they are not sure, sometimes buying time can help bring in further information. I often tell clients if they get invited to go somewhere and for some reason they are unsure, to buy some time (do nothing), tell the person inviting that they will answer them tomorrow. Then sit with their intuition and begin to ask, "Show me what it is I need to know. Why do I feel reluctant to go?" Will the answer be there every time? The short answer is yes. The long answer is it may not be what you expect. It may be that the person calls you back and cancels! Intuition may have given you a heads up that the event was not going to happen.

Intuition, gut feelings, knowing, all these will be ever expanding tools we will continue to welcome into our being like long lost friends. That sixth sense that is talked about with "other people" is right here in all of us and the more we use it, the greater awareness, a softer kindness and a gentler heart is expressed. I have often said that even the most manipulative persons are keenly using their intuition, it is just a bit misguided and ego inflated often times. It may be that they feel lost and scared and feel the only way to feel ok is through power. They tap into their intuition and benefit in ways that do not always produce lasting results or fulfilling truths.

What we do know is that Mother Earth and "we the people" have to work together to help each other. Going "green" is important, understanding your place in the big picture is important. Forgiveness is important so we can move on. Fear, doubt and worry only add weight to a backpack already full of neat stuff. No need to clutter up your shiny goods with goop.

This year, between my husband and I, there have been 7 deaths in our circle of friends and family. Grief can be one of those challenges I mentioned earlier. Sometimes things get to be where the voice is loud enough to create change. How my husband and I create change for our life may be different for others and their lives, but still a teacher is a teacher, no matter the form. I have been fortunate enough to connect on a spiritual level with several of those who have passed over. The message has been the same. "I'm OK!"is sent with smiles. Smiles! No doubt, no worry, no fear, just joy. More spiritual helpers on the other side, I say!

As we move into a brilliant new year, many of us will be dusting off the best treasure we have had hidden for a long time in the attic: our hearts. A light will begin to shine in new ways. Those who felt unworthy or unavailable to be part of a greater whole will be able to give themselves permission to do so. Imagine that. Permission to be part of change, permission to make choices, and permission to create change in their lives.

Begin to ground yourself with meditative walks, being mindful in each step. Begin to talk to your body. Listen when you get the inclination when something fits energetically or does not fit anymore.Be aware of what goes into and onto your body. Drink your tea and water with gratitude. Eat with blessings of abundance in nourishment. One of the things I tell my kids: eat because you are hungry, not just because it is in front of you. This keeps one present in the moment and connected to the body (especially in the season of goodies, knowing when enough is enough). Breathe deeply. Breath cleanses many organs, it is not just the lungs that get oxygen. And look with your eyes, feel with your heart. Do they match up? Do you see the joy and love your eyes and heart are capable of witnessing?

I had a wonderful client recently where the intuitive message was sometimes we get angry because things that are not acceptable have somehow made it into the acceptable box. And this is not ok with many of us any longer. It is not just about things, or whether you put your cans in the recycle cart. It is about living with your heart, listening to your intuition, speaking truth, staking your claim out loud when you could not do so in the past. This is not about permission to act silly because you have always wanted to in ways that are not appropriate or harmful. It is about learning discernment and how your actions encourage spiritual growth for not only yourself but for those around you. And when your Spirit begins to be strong and grow, then my dear friends, winter turns into spring once again. New flight, new wings, a new year.

May you enjoy the deepest of coziness that warms yourself and others. Rest well. Breathe deeply. Fill your spirit with the fuel of the Holidays: joy. Collect your thoughts, your energy, your inventory of strengths and passions about life. Your light will be called upon soon. Many candles can light a city and it all begins with a single flame.The birds of love and light will be ready to fly again soon and we have much to do.Shine bright,~Bright Star

Copyright 2008 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgment of the source via this website, author's name and/or business.

Nov 2008 Transformation: butterfly or moth.

2008-11-04T10:31:00.000-08:00

At the end of October I completed my Karuna Reiki Master Teacher training. The backdrop was gorgeous Sedona, Arizona (my heart’s home is the southwest). The weather was perfect, in the 70’s and 80’s. The sky held only blue, no clouds. The rusty red rocks breathing energy and life into the area looked even richer in color with Cielo Azul (blue sky/heaven) above it. It was sort of like looking from a crystal clear coral reef from the bottom up with no waves. Many leaves were changing colors on the tall trees. And it was strangely silent. No birds. The more I listened the more I realized – no birds were singing. Occasionally you would see them flutter past, but there were no songs. And there were no bugs. No birds and no bugs. Just the breeze, the trees rustling, the early morning walkers; the sound of “hush” was all around.

Partly it is the season. Sedona is a higher elevation and it does get snow, and it does get cold. But this week it was the perfect in-between. Perfect in transition from hot summer to cold winter. Perfect with Mother Nature guiding out the critters to more southern climates and moving in the energy of quiet winter; time of reflection and gathering. Perfect weather, perfect time of year, and the perfect group for my class. We ranged from dear Rob who is originally from Australia and currently lives in London to spunky Mirian who is from Argentina but resides in Canada. Actually I think there were 2 or 3 Canadians (right Doris?). There was Jim the massage therapist who graciously gave his hands to any asking shoulders. The rest of us spread across the US, including our “student” teacher (and I use that term loosely as Carolyn has taught Karuna for 3 or 4 years already), who came from New York.

I ate wonderful food everywhere I landed, from the great little sandwich shop, to the fabulous pizza, beautiful salad, to the incredible brownie dessert (did I mention incredible?). One of the days in my Sedona travels, my Dad and step mom (who turned my workshop into a mini-vacation for themselves) and I all arranged a bit of a field trip to two of the Indian Ruins in the area. At the first ruin, Palatki, there was a man, whose name escapes me now, established the grounds (in the 1800’s-1900’s) with great care and dedication and managed to grow 200 fruit trees of different varieties. The only trees remaining now are persimmons and pomegranates. With permission (and help) of one of the volunteer on-site rangers, 3 small pomegranates came home with us. The next night, in our little hotel kitchenette, my family of 3 made a wonderful dinner and topped off our salad with fresh, beautiful perfect pomegranate jewels. The second ruin we visited was an incredible organized cliff dwelling that was the longest layout I’ve seen in person. It was wonderful. And we managed to sneak in a visit to an ancient petroglyph site on the way of town on our last day of travel. Each day seemed to begin with glee like the first bite of a crisp apple and end with the coziness of a warm cup of tea.

So there I am in beautiful Sedona, Arizona feeling the cradled hush all around me, the gentle support of Earth under me and the joy of family near me and in the middle of all of this, there is a critter that goes with me wherever I go. And it’s not pleasant. It requires planning around and care. It was a sinus infection and I had to go everywhere with tissues. Whose idea was that? I do not recall putting that on the list next to socks and underwear. Ugh. And not only that, but this particular sinus infection had its bags packed and ready to go weeks ago, like a child all ready for vacation when it is not on the calendar until next month.

The whole point of this particular level of Reiki with Karuna energy is all about Compassion. Ugh, again. I hope my classmates were compassionate with my tissues hogging up all the trash cans and the unexpected cough that came out instead of a genuine giggle. And yet my comrades were understanding. Many times, the moment a person decides to make a change in their life (like take a Reiki class), the ball gets rolling. The momentum begins to build beyond their wildest dreams and soon it becomes easy because this new change is on a roll! But for some, when the ball begins rolling and they are standing on top of it, it can have the appearance of the ground moving from underneath them and they drop to the ground as if they can hold it still, even though it was they that set forth the movement. This is resistance. Not going with the flow. Not allowing the self to take small steps with each circumferency go-around (yes, I just made that up).

Of course all things have their divine purposes. For those who have studied the Second degree or Master level of Reiki with me in the last 12-18 months or so have seen the enhanced practice requirements and descriptions used with the Second Degree symbols. Well, Karuna, to me, feels like the mental/emotional symbol expanding it to about 12 times greater understanding (there are 12 symbols at the Teacher level). So how does that translate to a Divine sinus infection? Ah, my dear Watson, but of course, self love and care. Compassion for the self and for others. I had to postpone many appointments with clients in order to rest, rest, rest when I returned. It was necessary for many reasons; not only did my travels include my Karuna workshop, but also a stop back home (5 hours from Sedona, AZ) due to a sudden death in the family. No birds, no bugs, silence, rest. It took me a while to finally give in to the quietness, the hush.

When I returned home I had a very clear dream about a chrysalis. About to emerge was going to be a beautiful butterfly or a magnificent moth. And while some people wish for the butterfly with its grand colors and need to find nectar loving the flowers of our gardens, the moth has a different kind of strength with its body full of energy for the rest of its life (be it short as it is) as soon as it emerges. In this dream I was reminded some of the differences between a moth and butterfly. A butterfly, when it lands on a flower, stem or branch will close its wings to disguise itself and its colorful display and not attract attention. A moth on the other hand, when it lands, will keep its wings open, displaying its design, living in some ways like it does not have anything to lose, yet blending in, in its own way. How perfect (there’s that word again) for this time of transition: a new President for the US (come January), changes in the economy, a new level of energy and vibration for all us. We are all watching the emerging of a winged critter coming out of its chrysalis. Our “opinions” (butterfly or moth), could be easily softened to “perspectives” knowing that both are incredible, both serve a purpose. Every time one of us takes a class, workshop or reads a book for our betterment and our heart fulfillment, everyone benefits. And when many of us take a class or workshop or read a book or whatever, the spillover of growth and wisdom is invaluable. After all, the tissue industry greatly benefited from my resistance to taking care of me and not slowing down. But in the end, how I emerge, butterfly or moth, will benefit the greater Nature in general.

For those who are staunch supporters of “get it over with and get the antibiotic, already!” this is your version of a miracle and I honor that. For me, it was not about the quick-fix or the medication. It was more about the point of it. There are parts of this personal journey that medication cannot make go away. An antibiotic may be a version of someone’s idea of self-care and compassion because they ARE, in essence, taking care of themselves. But part of this journey was deciding to move forward energetically and for that the body, mind and spirit will move out old energy (and dare I mention snot?) and make room for the new. An energetic purging of sorts, a detox, a time of grief, a time of perfect renewal, a time of stepping on land that has held the energy of past peoples and feeling guided to go forward even further. No one has to agree with me, as miracles and healings will show up most appropriate for the individual. For me, in my journey, it is about settling into myself, taking care of myself by not being “superwoman,” as my homeopath puts it. It was disconnecting from the computer and the phone and allowing rest. Silence. No birds chattering, no bugs whizzing by, just hush. Just me.

I expect after this teaching/learning journey that I will enjoy my work even more, as the compassion and self-love will naturally overflow to all those who make their way through my door. There are many changes a foot right now (or should I say “a-wing”). Each of us are witnessing a great emerging, out of the chrysalis; we as individuals are spreading our wings, the nation is shifting, the Earth is moving, the money is changing, the smiles are moving from our lips to our hearts (which will naturally come back out to our lips again). Butterfly or moth, it’s time to fly.

With love of self and compassion for others, enjoy your day.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2008 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgement of the source via this website,www.brightstarinspirations.com, author's name and/or business.

October 2008 Same Sun, Same Water

2008-10-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

When I teach the children's class of Reiki, I often begin with explaining about energy and ways we help one another. It is like looking at a rainbow with its many colors. Each color with the brilliance it holds, shining a bright yellow that only Yellow can do. Or Green, or blue, etc. Reiki has often been associated with a very deep purple, though some have stated that Reiki has no color since it is of all colors. Both are true, I believe.

But here we are, learning and seeing these wonderful colored bands of light. When combined they create a rainbow. Without the combination, they are simply colored bands by themselves across the sky. Here is a simple explanation of a rainbow. Each typical rain drop is rounded allowing for light to enter the drop and as light enters in, it bends with the shape of the rain drop. Colored bands of light bend at different degrees. Violet bends the most and red the least. Because they bend at different degrees, when the sun is shining behind the observer and we are at just the right angle from below, we see the light layer in bands of color, producing the red to violet effect we call a rainbow.

When translated to energy work, I explain that we are going to learn about one of the colors today called Reiki. It is a simple way to engage children and their parents into understanding that there are many ways of doing things, like there are many colors in a rainbow, and for today we are going to focus on one of them. At the last Reiki Share, Reiki practitioners all agreed that while we understand we come with different perspectives and have different expertise, when we gather, it is a way of really delving into that color of Reiki for a bit. A way to dive into the energy all the way, be with it, swim in it, drink it up. It is wonderful. It does not take away from what they already know. If fact, it has a tendency to confirm for them their connection to whatever they call their higher source. It allows them the confidence to know that yes, you can do many things and it all works together.

Not only do I love teaching Reiki and working with it, but I also employ other modalities in my work. What I find as I am working is whatever helps the most at the time, whatever assists the healing, THAT is what is needed in that moment. My students know I use the vocabulary of modalities or snippets of things I have learned along the way because it facilitates the intuition, the growth, the opening of awareness, and the blessings of living more fully.

I happen to love working with the energetic side of mental, emotional, physical, spiritual issues. Does that mean that physical changes are not necessary? On the contrary, they are needed often. If I know my body does not like a food, it does not make sense to continue to eat it. Using tools from several angles/perspectives may provide enough information for the person to begin to feel the difference and make a difference.

To me, any tool that facilitates healing is a tool worth using or having. That does not mean I have to know or have every tool. What it does mean is knowing when a tool might benefit someone, you give them the name of the practitioners, the modality, the book, etc. It is allowing one to take a look at the whole rainbow and suggest a bit of green or orange when appropriate. Bring in what is needed at the time.

Cranial Sacral uses a term called the Inner Physician. Practitioners learn to connect to the divine doctoral authority of THAT body; no one else will have the innate knowledge that Inner being will have. It is a wonderful way to connect to the person beyond the personality and ego. It is a wonderful way to use vocabulary of what I feel I have connected to on an Intuitive level, this just gives it a name. It is kind of like using two colors at once: Reiki and cranial sacral.

But ultimately, when you look at the colored bands that make up this gorgeous rainbow, what are all those individual bands made of? They are all made out of the same sun and the same water. Thus, the source of all beneficial healing modalities are ultimately the same as well. Same sun, same water, same source of energy. What I call it and what you call it may differ, but it is the same. Purple and violet are different and yet the same.

My personal spiritual goal is to learn about each color in the rainbow and move from seeing them as individually colored bands to seeing the edges soften and blend becoming one. I personally am moving to soften, to blend the tools I know and have available. To bring them together, allowing myself to experience the gentle flow from one color to another with magnificent ease and to feel each vignette as natural as the rainbow's true, pure organic place of Oneness in beauty.

Did you know you have to be at a certain angle in order to see the bending of the light in a rainbow? That means that changing the angle can change the rainbow as I see it. It means that the person next to me can be at a different angle degree and see, in essence, a different rainbow! BUT, still, same sun, same water.

So my friends, if you are comfortable in hanging out in one color for a while, that is wonderful! Learn about it, love it, Be it. When you are ready, begin to blend in with the color next to you, add to who you are, soften a bit at the edges, let a little of yourself go forward and accept a little of what is ahead to come to you.

Use whatever modality creates healing. Giving up is not healing, surrendering the light of who you are is not healing; allowing a change by participating in the bending of light is healing, letting go of resistance, one color blending with another gains more when it gives a little. And be patient with yourself. Not everyone needs to know all the colors of the rainbow to understand or view the beauty of life. You just need a willingness to look up.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2008 all articles are the personal property of Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations. Sharing information is permitted without written consent but must be accompanied by acknowledgement of the source via this website, author's name and/or business.

September 2008 A Reiki Article: Personal Practice and Development

2008-10-02T05:55:00.000-07:00

When learning Reiki, students are taught how to do Reiki for
themselves. In order to do this, what I call the “talky” part
takes place with the exchange of information from words,
explanations, clarifications and texts from manuals are
discussed. As a teacher, I find the information fascinating.
It is amazing to me that we have a modality with divine
intelligence and yet in order to understand it, words are used
to explain . . . in the beginning. Being adept to the
information is vital for one to teach it and in order to get a
gist of what one is working with. It can be a challenge to
explain the unexplainable (which sometimes happens with
deep spiritual experiences). Then we move to the “fun” part
which is all hands-on practice. At first it may be
mechanical, but once the system is learned the intuitive part
takes over and the fun really begins – the energy called Reiki
teaches you.

I have always felt that in order for one to best understand
Reiki is to take a class. I can say many words about Reiki,
but ultimately, the experience is where the true
understanding takes place. First the mechanics are learned,
and then the practice ensues. Personal practice is expected
at all levels. As a matter of fact, it is emphasized at First
Degree. Personal development expands at Second Degree
with the mental and emotional aspects as they are now
expanding, clearing and refining. At the Master level, a
different sense of spirituality takes place; an understanding
beyond the RI and RII levels that can only be attained after
much practice.

I have found that people come to Reiki for one of two
reasons: physical healing or Spiritual development. While
one path may have taken them to Reiki, both are present in
working with Reiki. If a person does not know why they are
coming to Reiki, I have asked them to wait, otherwise they
will not absorb the information nor will they use it. There
are teachers who will attune any who asks them. I am not
one of those teachers. I want you to know what your
intention is in coming to Reiki. My classes are not for the
curious, they are for those who wish to help themselves and
others and for those who wish to expand their Spiritual
connections. If you are coming out of curiosity, there are
many weekend classes that are less money and less time that
you are welcome to go to.

There is controversy about Reiki, how it is taught and who
has the most information. By researching, I continue to learn
and I am finding there are so many ways to learn and teach
Reiki. For me, teaching Reiki is an ongoing process. Each
student that I encounter usually helps me tweak my lessons,
how I approach the items or how to better improve the next
time. What a gift – to always be learning while teaching.
All students, at all levels, continue to benefit from each
person who has gone before them and hopefully will see the
value in their own presence in teaching me and learning from
their classmates as well.

One of things I valve most about my own teachings is that I
practice Reiki. I live it in my daily life, I use Reiki on my
body, with my children and with family, I send it to stranded
drivers, ambulances and others along the side of the street
(and my kids do the same). I Reiki events, situations, food,
do distance sending, hold private sessions, plus offer Reiki
to the animals around the house. We have had 4 sets of baby
doves born in our back porch despite the in and out traffic.
Now some of my students say that they, too, do these things.
Great!

I want to stress the value in working with others. I do not
expect my students to all quit their jobs, buy a massage table
and put out a shingle that they do Reiki. It does not work that
way (although some have done this!). I got into Reiki to help
myself, to heal my physical body. I believed strongly
enough that there was something I could do to help myself.
Over time, a path developed for me that I simply choose to
create my career around. Not everyone will feel that way.
However, that should not stop anyone from practicing.
Practice is where you learn about Reiki. It is not about the
words I share. I can give you the mechanics, the ways of
the energy, but the only way a Reiki student can truly
understand Reiki, it to allow Reiki to teach the student.

I am but a guide and one who can express and share the
journey in as much as I have travelled before the student, but
ultimately, it is the student who must allow themselves to
connect with the energy. I can impart the essence of Reiki,
but it is the student who allows Reiki to expand through
personal practice and development.

There is a soft and subtle line that creates confusion among
students. It is the line where it is not black and white. There
is a space between the black and the white, a space where
there is quietness, a stillness, an opening. It is in these
spaces where understanding takes place. It is where
connections to Reiki’s divine guidance is abundant, flowing
and it is here where change takes place. If a client or a
student still maintains the idea that all must fall into the
black or white category, then all I teach with Reiki will be
nothing but theory. It will be words, it will be hand
positions. It will be a great idea that they can express with
words, but they will have no understanding of the energy.

Understanding the energy is vital to moving upward
(inward/outward) with Reiki, it is vital in understanding
oneself. While we are here on Earth, our physical bodies
will have physical experiences. It is why we are here. Here
in this physical place in a physical body we need to practice
in physical ways. Work with each other. Reiki has so much
to teach you in the bridge between the physical and the non-
physical.

I love hearing the creativity of students using Reiki.
Continue this! I have found some of my favorite ways of
sending distance healing was by getting creative when the
circumstances were unusual. Beyond that, do work with
each other. Those we know very well, like family and
friends, benefit greatly from our blessing of providing a
space for Reiki. Working with those we do not know
intimately (beyond family) can teach you much. Those we
don’t know very well can teach us to allow the miracles to
take place without direction or expectation from us (because
we will not know their back story as well as family).

An example I gave recently was like riding a horse. To be a
really good rider, you have to learn the basics of riding and
then once you get on the horse, you have to relax into the
rhythm of the stride of the horse. The horse teaches you
which way to lean, which way to bounce. Otherwise you
will just bop up and down on the horse because you are not
riding WITH the horse, you are simply riding on TOP of it.

I do not believe that all things that are given to us, like
attunements with no instruction, count as mastery. I believe
mastery takes place with those who have reached an
understanding with the spiritual essence (and even that
constantly evolves and expands, it is never stagnate). Those
who have received master attunements but do not possess the
understanding of the energy are not masters, in my opinion.
Honorary as the title may be, it is in the practice where
mastery takes place. Practice and deep understanding. I
have learned from many that just because one has a title does
not make them equivalent to the energy behind the title.

I encountered a woman once who asked me, “I do not
understand how one can be a master after a few hours in a
class?” It is not about the class, it is about the practice
afterward. It is the development.

For you, my students and those interested in Reiki, master
the level to which you have studied, allowing the unfolding
of who you are to be revealed. Practice with others, they
have much to teach you. Find the space between black and
white and see what Reiki has to show you there. Personal
practice and development are key to you working with
Reiki, opening your awareness, expanding your
consciousness and finding a deeper Spiritual connection.
Without personal practice and development, it is simply
mechanics.

May all who gaze up on this receive a wash of Reiki to bless
them, encourage them and open them in ways previously
unrealized.

~Bright Star

Copyright 2008 Cheryl Kaufmann and Bright Star Inspirations

The Trek

2008-10-02T05:53:00.000-07:00

The Trek.
Most of you have heard of the Sierra Club. This is a club
dedicated to items of Nature: preservation, appreciation,
visitation, etc. Sometimes groups gather specifically to go
on nature treks or to visit natural preservations and parks,
etc. Sometime in the last year or so, I was given
visualization about such a trek.

Imagine you have embarked upon a hike up a beautiful
mountain. You have carefully packed your backpack with
exactly what you need, leaving plenty of room for small
treasures you might find along the way – perhaps a shiny
rock, an interesting leaf, a chip of pyrite just for fun (yes, I
know most nature hikes stress to take nothing and leave nothing but the whisper
of your footsteps, this is for visualization). Along your hike, you are
traveling with others who have signed up for this particular
hike on this particular mountain during this particular
season. It’s beautiful! You feel clear, strong, excited and
ready.

Your first steps are easy, fun and filled with great
anticipation for the journey. Part way up the mountain you
encounter one of your comrades. They are struggling with
their water bottle in their hand and hiking. You think to
yourself, I have plenty of room in my backpack, I could hold
their water bottle with no problem. So you offer and they
accept this help. They feel lighter and quickly move along
their journey. Meanwhile, you pass another who is also
struggling with their water bottle and the hike. You think,
again, how you have plenty of room and again offer to place
it in your backpack. They gratefully accept. And while you
begin to feel the added weight, you still move along readily.

Further up the mountain, two others are struggling with their
water bottles and you think to yourself, "I am strong. This
journey so far has been fine. I could surely take their water
bottles in my left hand and my right hand. I am a strong
climber, I can do this." You offer, they accept. The other
climbers, now lightened in load, move along at a fast clip
and are now far ahead of you.

Here your journey changes. The feeling of obligation takes
over – you MUST reach the top now because you have
everyone’s water bottles! What if they get thirsty? With the
sense of responsibility the journey is not about joy, personal
treasures, appreciation, and taking one’s time – it has shifted
to “must reach the top – they need me.” The journey is not
for you anymore, it is for them. You have taken your joy out
of the mix.

Let’s take a look at a suggestion to change this scenario.
Your first steps are easy, fun and filled with great
anticipation for the journey. Part way up the mountain you
encounter one of your comrades. They are struggling with
their water bottles in their hand. You think to yourself, I
have plenty of room in my backpack, I could hold their water
bottle with no problem. But instead, you go to them, and
perhaps suggest taking a look at their own backpack; maybe
with a little rearranging they can fit their water bottle into
their OWN backpack instead of holding onto it. Or maybe
they didn’t see the side pocket perfect for water bottles. Or
perhaps, there is no room, and they are the last one on this
hike, everyone has moved ahead. You could offer to walk
beside them for a while.

Here you have not taken on anything that is not part of your
journey and you have guided and helped in empowering
ways. Sometimes, the simple presence of another is enough
to give a boost, a jump start, a second wind, and yet their
journey is still their journey. Help arrives in many ways; it
does not mean we take on items not meant for our trip. In
life, it can mean simply not volunteering for every club or
event (room mom, den mother, Girl Scout leader,
spokesperson, volunteering to get other people’s lunch for
them, etc), nor getting involved in others drama, yet helping
out when you can with what you can. Pick and choose what
you want to participate in. What does your intuition say?

Enjoy your journey! Enjoy the trek you have signed yourself
up for! Guide when needed, slow down when nudged, assist
as necessary, but remember this is a journey meant for you to
take in the scenery just as much as anyone else in this group.
Do not let guilt, fear or worry become your walking mate (it
will really slow you down!). Joy is your guide, Love is
your leader, follow them.

August 2008 - Sweet sausage, with a side of Joe.

2008-08-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

Sweet sausage, with a side of Joe.
An energetic reflection of caffeine, artificial sweeteners, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications.

This article has been long in the making. I’m finding such a strong indication in many of my clients, family, and friends that I really needed to put this article into print.

Most of us are aware that our world is changing. There are the obvious signs of greater understanding of how things work; hence less tolerance for mindless destructive ways of living with each other and with the environment. We as a whole are moving forward in outward examples of living with awareness of what we choose, where we go and with whom we choose to share these experiences. We are beginning to live as co-creators in our lives and with humanity as a whole. We still have a ways to go before we have all items on the list of changes complete, but I believe that we no longer are able to live blindly to these changes.

Often times when I speak or write I use vocabulary that may be considered “new age” or “out there,” but I feel that most who are reading these articles have a general understanding of the terms used. Today, I’d like to address the word “vibration.” When I speak of vibration I literally mean the vibration of the item, person, song, food, room, building, etc. I can perceive the subtle signal, much like a radio signal, that is being emanated off of these things in a frequency that I’m sure somewhere in the scientific world it could be measured. Sometimes I feel nothing; sometimes I feel the vibration very strongly. Sometimes it is subtle, but consistent enough for me to pick it up. Do I understand what the radio signal represents each time? No, not always. But what I do understand is that the body of a client or friend or food or building is sending a message that my body is receiving in a way that is getting my attention. It usually leads me to ask questions. There may be a reason why I’m picking up that particular signal.

A few signals that I have been picking up for quite a while, several years at least, is the vibrational frequency of clients as they are sitting in my chair while we go over the intake form before a session. While I do not have this question listed on the initial form, I am guided with some persons to ask if they intake caffeine, artificial sweeteners, or are currently taking or have been on anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medication. The body literally sends out a radio signal indicating these changes in the body.

Caffeine and artificial sweeteners, as no surprise to anyone, have high vibrations. Caffeine produces a “buzz” effect coming off of the body. With both caffeine and artificial sweeteners there is also a corresponding message that the adrenals are stressed, on “go”, not enough rest and usually can mess with the coping system in general of how to handle relationships, life, making decisions and will affect the body’s communication with the Self. This means that if the body is hungry, for example, the person may not register it because they are BUSY. If one is too busy to listen their own body, they may often be too busy to deal with the reason behind why they feel the need to escape with the fast, flashy rebel-without-a-cause called “but I like it” and “it tastes good.” Excuses. I like hot cocoa, but I don’t need it function, nor do I need it to make my life bearable or any sweeter. Artificial sweeteners have been known to be 10-600 times sweeter than sugar and few realize that while they may think they are bypassing the effects of sugar, the neurotoxic effects of too much caffeine and artificial sweeteners will dull down your connection of the natural sweetness your taste buds are capable of detecting and natural highs of life - healthy adrenal flow, not caffeine induced.

Anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. Wow, I wish you could feel this one from my perspective. Anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications, whether currently used or in the recent past feel like sausage. Really. Sausage. They give the impression to me like a grey-white sheath covering the body so that anyone that comes near them will believe that they are all smoothed out, just fine, and they have all their “stuff” together. Isn’t that what the outside casing does with sausage? Hold it together? As soon as I detect the sheath, I can feel that inside the person, there is still a bunch of chunky meat. Are you sausage? Let me go further. With this same feeling of the sausage, the body will tolerate this act of confinement for a while. It will go along with whatever it is you need to do for a small bit of time. This is, where in extreme cases of grief, like death of a loved one, or total confusion after a traumatic event, people have said that the anti-D or anti-A saved their life and got them through whatever the event was. But let me reiterate, the body tolerates it for a short time, then it will begin to speak up. The body and emotional spirit of the person will not tolerate total confinement for long periods of time.

After a short duration, and I do mean short, like perhaps a few months, the body will send messages that it wants out of this sausage-like prison. The sheath, as I see it, begins to pressurize, stretch, break at the seam. How the person sees this is they are unable to handle things anymore, stresses are less tolerated, physical issues appear, sleep issues appear and the person feels the need for a higher dose of the medication. This is not so. What they need at that point, and actually BEFORE they began the medication, is to listen to their heart. Something needs to change. The body is literally trying to get the persons attention. “Ok, we may be a bit unorganized in here, but staying locked in a closet won’t help us and eventually we’ll need some air and if it means breaking down the door to get it, that is what we’ll do.”

If the person doesn’t know how to do it all themselves, it is vitally important that they seek help in some manner. Someone to hear their story, a councilor, a life coach, a positive approach (not just a place to rehash what a mess things are) can be incredibly healing. Homeopathy is great for helping those with anxiety, depression, resistance and confusion. It’s worth investigating (see a professional homeopath to ask questions) and I recommend it to many clients. Acupuncture, nutritional counseling and flower essences can also provide support. And, of course, Reiki is wonderful, healing, balancing and sends love in beautiful ways to those places in a person that I have witnessed time and again.

I am not a doctor, I do not diagnose illness, nor do not consider myself a medical intuitive, but it is very important that you understand that your body is trying to talk to you. It is a signal. The body literally will begin to knock at the door from the inside out. If the person is unable to be still long enough to listen themselves because they are busy buzzing around and all wrapped up, the messages will get louder until they are heard. Literally. The body speaks. Often times with this particular vibration that comes off of these substances, “escapism” is the word that is shown to me. Where are you trying to escape from being who you really are?

So while you are beginning to notice that things aren’t the way they used to be with the way you were raised, or how you did it “back then,” or that relationships are shifting, and you are seeing that food is changing because of demand and packaging is appealing with words that seems healthy, I would suggest you check in with your body to see if it is really beneficial for you. Not what your tongue likes, not what you mind rationalizes. What does your body say? If you can’t “hear” anything, take a look at what might be getting in the way. Caffeine, artificial sweeteners, anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications will dull your receptivity to your own Spirit speaking to you.

By the time clients walk through my door, the body is at a place where it wants to be heard, wants to be empowered, thus the Spirit is ready to emerge. My job is to translate and to confirm what you already know which is you ARE worthy of all great things in life. Quit running, quit hiding, stop faking the body and spirit into thinking that it is as sweet as can be, when you KNOW what is REAL is beyond any artificially induced high. Life is as high as it gets – it’s why you are here.

Relax. Relax. Listen, and see what song your personal radio signal is set to.
Are you ready to change? If something inside of you says yes, then start small or big, but begin. No chemical can produce the buzz and sweetness life gives. Become aware. Enjoy.

~Bright Star

July 2008 - My family wind chime

2008-08-29T20:01:00.000-07:00

My Family wind chime.

For those of you who read last month’s article, you are familiar with the wind chime analogy I spoke about. The article spoke that we are connected to the base support directly, with nothing between you and your God Source, not even your parents. We are not designed like a ladder with people ahead of us, we are all equal in our connections and we all sing to our own tunes (combined and individually chimed).

My great-grandmother had 12 children, 10 of which survived into adulthood. Out of the 10 surviving adults, my grandmother was the first to transition over. I feel her to be like a “gatekeeper” on that side of the fence. And for reasons I can’t explain, I feel I’m posted opposite her to some degree as a gatekeeper in my own physical way on this side. With those 10 children surviving into adulthood, I’m sure you can image how the family has grown; grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren now. This past weekend I flew home unexpectedly to support family as another one of my great-aunts, my grandmother’s sister, passed away. There are six remaining now of the original 10 adult children.

I don’t know how familiar some of you are with the Hispanic community or the deep Roman Catholic way of being raised, but the culture is quite rich and magical. For funerals and weddings, those persons who can make the event appear and reconnect with family in ways that are exciting and incredibly gratifying. In my family, a funeral usually consists of the viewing and the Rosary the evening before the Mass, held frequently at an incredible historic Cathedral in Arizona accompanied by live Mariachi music, and then the graveside service at the cemetery. It’s a two day event and always ends with a family gathering with lots of food, abundant stories and joyous laughter.

This time at the services at the Cathedral, under the splash of color from the stained glass windows, my cousin stood at the pulpit and delivered a loving speech. He spoke about his mom, my great-aunt, as one who prayed everyday for everyone, but seldom wanted to “bother them” to find out in person or over the phone how they were doing. He mentioned that while she thought of everyone, she was caught up in her own insecurities. My cousin then said to us, “Go bother someone today. Let them know you are thinking about them.” He had everyone in the church turn to each other and say a kind word or give a hug. It was very moving and loving and brought forth a great sense of Oneness.

It is in these moments where all of the different “pipes” (characters in our family) of the family “wind chime” suddenly and beautifully come together and create a tune of such depth and complexity and yet without a doubt it sings out as a simple sound of Love. The different “chimes” in my family vary greatly. I have a rocket scientist, bikers, welders, law enforcement, architects, electricians, national security personnel, nurses, teachers and more teachers, mailmen, professional singers and actors, engineers, tattoo artists, salesmen, mathematicians, forklift drivers, athletes, professors, hairdressers – you name it, with as big as my family is, I’m sure I’ve got a cousin in there somewhere who does it.

But here’s the really neat part. When my family gathers, it’s not about what we “do,” we simply gather as we “ARE”. It’s always shocking to find out who does for a living because that’s not how we see each other, it’s not about the job. It’s simply that they are family. The jobs we do only describe part of who we are expressing – and hopefully we are expressing something we really like to do! The job description can be impressive, but it never changes the gathering – it just is a curious question that gets answered. Ultimately nobody cares about the “job”, we love them regardless. The best part is when we gather, we get to be who we are, which is always changing, always growing, always expanding, even in times of loss.

I’ve had many clients recently who have had to be reminded that once a person sets upon a journey, they are never again at “square one.” As soon as you begin the journey, steps two and three have been taken. The journey is always forward, never stagnate, even if it appears to be. If another day has passed, then steps into that day have been taken – again, forward motion moves a person away from square one. If you are reading this, you have taken many steps forward in your day to get here.

Keep it moving forward; go “bother” someone, as my cousin mentioned. Move forward in your own personal journey, tell yourself something kind, doing something nice for yourself. Then extend that to someone else. Chime your bell and help someone else ring theirs. Go past what people “do” and find out who they “are.” And vice versa, let others find out who YOU are, not just what you do. And if someone bothers you- maybe it’s because they care enough to give you the personal attention you deserve. Or maybe they need some attention themselves.

You can do this, consider yourself “bothered” by me – a saying just for you, that’s right you, letting you know that you ARE moving forward and I need you to keep growing just as you need me to do the same. Ring your bell, baby!

~Bright Star

June 2008 - You are a wind chime, not a ladder.

2008-08-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

You are a wind chime, not a ladder.

I just love inspiration. It shows up in wonderful ways. Usually, for me it is inspired by an “a-ha” moment from a client or through the guidance that comes through me for another. Either way, I feel to be an observer in a wonderful unfolding of truth and forward momentum.

A client came to me recently and observed in a Reiki session that she finally saw how in personal relationships there is no “order” in which we come in, we simply are all together, each doing our own thing, no one person ahead of the other. She clearly saw that it does not go “God”, then a little lower down there is “Mom”, then lower still “herself.” She understood that we are all connected to the greater source with no one person in between herself and that connection, regardless of any age of any person.

The mistaken identity is as if on a ladder with our highest Spiritual source being the highest rung on a ladder and with no other room to go but up or down on any ladder, we must be lower. And lower must mean that since our parents have arrived before us, they must be higher on the rungs than ourselves. Not so. Just as my client had her “a-ha” moment realizing that her Mom was not higher on the ladder than she, so did she realize her personal place and connection was not lower than anyone else. Self-value and worth is not measured by where one is on a ladder that does not exist.

We are not ladders. We are like wind chimes. We are all wonderfully connected to that sturdy base at the top, each able to make our own individual sound, made out of a particular material. And when we are all working together – the beauty of the gentle song is hypnotically soothing. It brings peace. I have a lovely wind chime that has a particular tonal quality that most of my clients comment on – I love it and thank it every time I hear it with a smile from my heart.

I have thought of the different types of wind chimes available. There are those that are small, large and somewhere in between. There are different kinds and grades of metal, some of wood, copper, or plastic, and made of regular metal pipes (those have a clunk sound, by the way). What if we were part of huge wind chime called Family? And some of our family members were, in our humble opinions, made out of the “wrong” material?

What if you were made out of the wonderful resonating perfect metal that just sang when struck by the hammer in the middle. And how you do love to sing, right? And next to you is your sibling made out of bamboo. Their sound is mellower and does not linger in resonance like you do. Or how about one of your parents made out of a hard metal pipe with a clunk sound that attracts attention in “loud” ways and feels somehow harsh to you. And the other parent is made out of plastic, with a non-resonance way of ignoring the point of the wind chime. Or how about the flashy aunt, uncle or cousin made out of the flamboyant bling of a tube, solely there for looks, not to sing. Boy, our opinions can really make this wind chime seem like a clunky, clanky bundle.

Let’s view this bundle on the system of the ladder. Imagine the harsh metal pipe and insipid plastic tube above us as our parents, along with the showy bling tube of an aunt or uncle a few rungs above and don’t forget the bamboo sibling in there somewhere (either up or down from us), we’d feel trapped by the thought of “Why are they above me? I’m the one who’s singing!” If we come into this life feeling we are on a ladder with others above us and thank goodness we are not any lower – OR as someone approaches, we are too fearful to go upward, we let others go by us claiming our rung higher up, this ladder is not going to be very fun for very long. This can appear not only as our parents above us, but as figures of certain authority; those who have been given the place of perceived value in shaping our Spiritual beings, like those in a clergy or teachers or whomever. I remember the first time I told a person that I held in a position of authority that I was taking them off “the pedestal”. Their response was, “you should have done that a long time ago.”

Do you see the importance in this? Ultimately, those who evolve to a point of really understanding that we are not rungs on a ladder will see the joy of being connected individually to the wind chime base of life and will sing regardless of the other the tubes or pipes. We all make music. We all sing. Sometimes it sounds a bit strange when combined, but it doesn’t matter, the sound is meant to carry on the wind. And that is the most important part. And the beauty of wind chimes is they work while not even trying. The breeze carries them to singing; they gracefully ring out despite quiet days. No matter the day before, the song still tones, still echos, still sends love to those open to hearing.

I am blessed. I get to hear all kinds of wind chimes in the work I do. Each of you with your stories unfolding, are wind chimes ringing individually, toning, singing, and sharing. So if you are seeing yourself on a ladder with those above you, try seeing yourself on a wind chime – connected directly with no “middle man”, supported and able to sing. It’s why you are here.

~Bright Star

“Let the breeze persuade you to sing.”
~Bright Star

May 2008 - The kalidescope

2008-08-29T19:57:00.000-07:00

The kaleidoscope.

Have you ever felt like you were one of the colored pieces at the bottom of a kaleidoscope? Perhaps you are one of the green square shapes butted up against a red diamond shape. No, wait, we’re moving . . . we’re stopping. Ok, well, perhaps you are a green diamond shape next to a long orange colored piece. Wait, we’re moving again. . .

Have you ever felt that moment of resignation of “ok, I’m here now” when your whole world seems to shift, turn, slide and without meaning to, you have bumped up against another or they bumped up against you? We are all like those small colored pieces at the bottom of those magical tubes. Sometimes we don’t mean to “rub them the wrong way” but without knowing you have shifted into another’s mosaic and it’s being duplicated over and over again – how do we get out of this relationship or job or scene or whatever? Please, someone shift the tube!

Then it moves. We move. And we shift, slide, turn and there it is – the most beautiful creation of colors and design. We are part of the snowflake design of color and it stimulates and calms everything about who we are. Oooh, we like this one. Don’t move it! We like it here. And it moves . . .

A friend of mine and I were talking about how in a kaleidoscope the pieces bump up against each other and she mentioned how just like people, we are bumping into each other. I immediately saw the really neat part of it was no matter what the design, a slight tap, a minuscule movement changes the image. And of course a big turn can really make a shift in the view.

The gift I saw in this image was how incredibly creative we are and how quickly we can re-create the image. And by “re-create” I mean create again, not create the same. The blessings of kaleidoscopes are the re-birthing of new beauty with each turn, big or small. And without being next to that red diamond, the picture the two of you are creating to the viewer could not be seen. The beauty in the shared space in the big picture cannot always be seen if viewed from so close.

Now it is true that some images hold greater beauty than others to the beholder. Isn’t it interesting how these places we look at through the tube are easily and smoothly shifted to create a more pleasing vantage? If we could only keep that in mind more when we feel butted up against an uncomfortable position in life. If it is uncomfortable, tap the tube! Shift the view. Literally change the thought patterns of how we look at something can have as dramatic of an effect as it would be to twist the kaleidoscope 90 degrees.

Creating our world through our thoughts and actions is creating a whole new image of beauty. And when it is not pleasing, perhaps there is beauty there we do not recognize. Perhaps there is a unique way to see the textures or combinations of colors we have not seen before – or would not have put together on our own.

What if . . . now I’m going out on a limb here . . .what if every time we shifted the tube, changed our thoughts, it changed the physical color pieces in the tube? Like some type of magical wave of goodness coming through and literally shifting little by little the colored pieces to those we seem to find our joy with. What if it began with blacks and reds and we were angry or scared and it slowly shifted to oranges and we began to do be more expressive and creative in our being? And what if on days we listened to our intuitive heart rather than strict logic, the colors changed to greens, blues and purples? What if on days we were filled with joy, a rainbow appeared in those colored pieces and it seemed perfect that they were each represented?

I don’t know, perhaps, we all like it to be one way. Perhaps there is some sort of empowerment in consciously controlling the twisting over and over again. Twisting it with no change in the colors will only give us a certain perspective, while it is comfortable in its familiarity, it is lacking in something. Something, something.

I see great potential in knowing that there is magic in my thoughts, my actions to create beauty with each twist. Some see a scary place, not knowing what color or which circumstance Fate will match them up with. How do you see it?

Take a look at yourself. Are you butted up against a colored shape or are you part of a gorgeous design? Allow your gratitude in your participation be one that creates images of beauty. Your color, your shape is needed in order for the big picture to take place. I thank each of you who have participated in one or more of my twists and turns in the kaleidoscope of life. I wonder . . . does the color and shape I see myself match the color and shape you see from your view? I don’t think we’d ever be able to know, because by then it will have shifted.

May you enjoy the colors and shapes of your glorious mosaics. Make each day a new image, shifting it ANYTIME you feel drawn.

Blessings,
Bright Star

“If we didn't have all the colors, the beauty of the rainbow would be lost.”
~Bright Star

April 2008 - A day to Fish

2008-08-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

A day to Fish.
Where are you in the river of life?

There at the top of a great mountain, green with trees and soft grasses stood a man. He was overlooking an expansive lake with still waters. It was very early in the morning; the sun had not yet broken the horizon and yet there was light to see. Beneath the surface of the water with its deep, reflective glassy sheen, life of great abundance flourished. This man stood silent; still and completely connected to the heartbeat of the land. He could feel the life in the wind, the breath of the trees, the soft sighs of the flowering plants and the fish that swam in the lake beyond. This was not a day for fishing. The fish were on the far side of the lake. It was not about what he saw on the surface of the water, it was what was below the surface that the man was connected to. Simply by being in touch on this day with the heartbeat of the land and water, this man knew when to accommodate his family by other means. Perhaps tomorrow he will fish. Or perhaps not. It didn’t matter. His connection was so deep that worry of the meal was not of a concern. It was the way he and nature worked together to create balance, serenity and respect for one another.

When my client met me for the first time, she had no idea that she would leave me with a feeling of such reverence of her deeply connected Being that I felt reminded by her soul when it shared with me this past life. It was not my own, but hers. She, in her present body, did not connect to this same degree – but it exists in her. And it exists so powerfully, she was able to raise my being by sharing the image with me telepathically at a soul level, even though her consciousness was not aware. I was very excited to share this image with her, thus reminding her who she has been and who she is capable of being. I tell people, Earth knows YOUR footsteps. Momma Earth knows when you are at my house, your house, or at play. With this, it is comforting to know you are always supported by one of the greatest energies of this planet – the planet itself. Through this connection, as the young man reminded me in vision, we will always be provided for. Fish will be another day; today it will be something else.

How powerful is it to know that Earth would support us with such balance as to literally send us fish when needed and to move them away when not? How brilliant is it to know that trust would run so deep that by simply asking “where are the fish today?” that one would be shown instantly and with no fret of the days take?
The lake holds much energy and life. And within this life it is fed in many fashions, such as the rain and the rivers.

My dad sent me a beautiful metaphor for life that he has held for a while and has chosen now to share this very thought (I have his permission to share with all of you and have added to it as well).

What if instead of being the man on the mountain, we were the river that feeds the lake?

The River.

“Perhaps we all started as a young creek or brook, tiny yet big enough to gain momentum and grow to a small stream. From here we expand, grow stronger, and have the capacity to hold more water and then we become the river.
At this point, our life becomes interesting. The river wanders through time and distance and is never the same. As the river moves, it comes across different environments and physical elements that must be crossed in order to continue to the end of its journey.

The river may be forced over cliffs by gravity. As the river falls it may crash at the bottom with a loud noise and enough force to change the earth as it lands. The river may be caught in the wind as it falls and become light and float on the air; reflecting light from the sun as a rainbow or reflecting silver slivers from the moonlight.

When moving through the walls of a deep canyon, the river is forced over rocks as rapids: swirling, bubbling, churning, fighting to get through.
Then there are long stretches of shallow, slow moving, almost at a standstill, reflecting pools that go from bank to bank, resting, resting.

There are moments in which it seems the flow is being siphoned away from the destination, being drained from ditches dug by others purposefully to move the flow out and away from the original journey.

And moments of replenishment; of rain, steady and soft or hard and fast.
These may be experienced many times, in different orders, before the river reaches its final destination and is no longer a river.”

Perhaps now it is one with the lake.

Perhaps after this journey, and the river has arrived and settled becoming one with the lake, a feeling of lightness takes place. And easily and effortlessly, molecules are evaporated gently with freedom to rise above the great body of water. Higher and higher they go. Below is the lake. The molecules collect together in a higher mission that can see all that happens below.

From this view, rivers, reflecting pools, rapids, waterfalls, rainbows, channels, streams, creeks are seen and loved for you know their journey. From this place of lightness you can pass on other water molecules in the form of rain who wish to “try it out”. And perhaps you, too, want to “try it out” again. With this thought, you are becoming denser, and with great excitement, you rain down upon the mountain. You run across the soil, to the creek, to the stream, to the river.

“Just like the river, life can be experiences of free fall from a cliff, a fight to get through rapids or spells of quiet like a giant reflecting pool or as light as a rainbow.

Where is life today?”

Where are you in this river? I, myself, would like to think I’m floating in the particles reflecting colors of light to all who can see a rainbow of happiness inspiring along the way. But holding that thought makes me realize that there is still so much more in my journey, my personal river journey, that is yet unseen, yet to be traveled. And to know that I will be a part of the lake and will communicate the message of the heartbeat of the land to whomever is connected at the time is quiet exciting.

Then I pause. Somewhere inside of me I am reminded of the image of the young man on the mountain. Part of the heartbeat of the land is the river that flows to the lake. So no matter where I am, I am connected, sending messages out to those who are also connected to the heartbeat. And with this knowledge, there is no reason to feel separated from anything in the future. I am connected to the heartbeat here and now. I am the rush of the waterfall and stillness of the reflecting pool whether I know it or not, I am all these things in the now, and so are you.

May your journey be one of adventure. May your journey hold the power of a connection that is limitless and beyond physical boundaries. May your spirit know that somewhere, today is a day to fish.

Breathe like you are standing on the mountain. Feel like you are connected to the Earth. And smile like you know you are cared for, loved and always heard.

Love your day,
Bright Star

April 2008
“Close your eyes and see with your whole being.”

March 2008

2008-08-29T19:37:00.000-07:00

The Perfect Bull’s Eye.

It is so fitting that this particular year would be a Leap Year. I’m fascinated with the energy around a Leap Year. It’s like a bonus. A bonus 24 hours, a bonus 1440 minutes (which adds up to 9 for all you numerology people). A bonus day that somehow is a gift to the month of February and an additional slot in our year and special because it is uncommon. (That is until the next one).

For a whole day, the entire mass population holds the space for a day that would have existed anyway, save the title change. But for all those born, exiting or married on this day, the title is very important. For it is when you leapt forward to that big step of the world, the other world or into relationship. The fascination for me is more like watching two people understanding; how to work together. Once they move in the same direction, all resistance to going in separate directions is eliminated. Such is Leap Year. Everyone holds together in the idea of a bonus time slot, a special title and a small portal that lasts for about a day of everyone moving forward, leaping, if you will, toward March. This one day brings a subtle shift in the possibilities of something different, if not for the only the day, but for the year, if one is willing to extend it that far (after all it is a Leap Year!).

So where is it that we get hung up on life that we can’t hold the bonus possibilities of Leap Year all the time? The greatest gift of being intuitive is the wonderful examples clients provide me with in teaching me ways of “seeing” the world. I have several people to thank for this beautiful analogy that follows and hopefully it will benefit you all in understanding your heart in moving forward. And this message is all wrapped up in the Perfect Bull’s Eye. You know, that perfect form, the straight flight, the sharp slap of air as the arrow pops the surface of the paper target against a hay bale support. The marksman is grounded with feet firmly placed on the ground, anchored to the side, rather than forward, for the best advantage of the pull on the bow and the sight is free of any disturbances. The eyes keenly draw a line of vision of the flight path to its destination. And there is no doubt that this arrow WILL make the target. It’s perfect. But what if (here enters the mind/ego) . . .nah . . .but what if . ..

What if it didn’t make the target? What if by chance it didn’t go to the center circle? And here I am with only one arrow. Hmmm, I think just in case I don’t make, but I know of course that I would, but just in case I don’t, I think I’ll hold onto my arrow for when I really need it. THEN I’ll shoot, when I really need it . . . I’ll just wait here . . .for when I’m . . . needed. Or my arrow is needed, it’s not really even me, it's my arrow, and I only have one, you know. The doubt that we allow to creep into our minds can really take us off a path that was meant to really show how GOOD we are at what we do! We are meant to LEAP forward in our talents and abilities.

What if I told you that behind this marksman (you), who is holding in debate on this ONE arrow, that behind you is a line of 10 people each holding a bushel of arrows, just awaiting your word for the next one. They are doing their job in holding the arrows, giving you one at a time so that you don’t have to fumble with balancing all those arrows, balance and aim at the same time. The gift of them holding the arrows is freeing you to make your best shot! So that you don’t have to worry about balancing a basket of arrows over your shoulder, a line of Angelic Begins each awaiting your word and each holding all the abundance you need to make your Bull’s eye is at your fingertips, but you have to pull back the bow and make the shot to free your hands and make your very capable fingers available for the next arrow.

Too often the idea of perfection comes into our thoughts and an “all or nothing” attitude takes over. But what we don’t realize what we have and what/who we are IS all, it’s our perspective that is holding the “nothing” because right behind you is a endless supply of ALL. When the heart realizes that the abundance of assistance is there, then it does not even matter if you make the bull’s eye on the first pull anyway! The knowledge that there is abundance is like allowing all the bonus of a leap day into your thinking. It would have happened anyway, but you needed to let yourself believe in it and give it a title. It’s called Trust. It’s called Spirit, God, Higher Self, Guides, Angels, Love, Oneness. It is all these things. It does not matter what you call it, what matters is you trust yourself and give yourself a chance to take the shot, regardless of expected outcome, knowing, simply knowing that YOU are the Perfect Bull’s eye. The “arrows” actually come from inside you anyway and all shots you take are perfect in the mere being of their Being.

Leap forward, the bonus you seek in the bull's eye is simply a space you connect with within your heart. YOU are the flight path, the arrow, the bow and the target. When you understand that, making the actual shot becomes non-existent, you have already made it in your heart. But it is important to first make your connection to the helpers behind you.

I live on a particularly interesting (to me at least) intersection. From my driveway, which happens to be unusually long (especially when backing up), I have 4 directions I can travel. It is an intersection that is not a perfect 4 way stop, as most intersections go. It is a residential intersection with a large center section that allows the roads to go in slight sloping angles from each other, rather than perfect ninety degree angles. My wonderful angels and guidance team use humor often to get messages across and visually took me to my property line to make a point for a client. They showed me how funny it would be to get into my vehicle, say good bye to all in the house, travel down the long driveway, get to the edge, and not knowing which way would be my “next step” or road to travel, I would make the “long” journey back up the driveway in the vehicle to the house, get out and talk about my day as if I had actually gone somewhere, but really had not left my comfort zone of the driveway.

The arrow and car ride are so similar! If I never travel down ANY street, how will I know where they lead? One road leads to a pocket park, one leads to the way “out” of the neighborhood. The shortest road is the fastest to the main road. And the one that is my favorite is lined with established trees perfect for short walking meditations. I would not know any of these roads or their gifts if I forever visit only the edge of my driveway.

We are meant to make our bull's eyes, travel the roads, view the sights, take a chance, live our talents - did you catch that? LIVE your talents, don't just visit it at the edge of the driveway. Don't just hold it in your hand in case you need it later. Your gifts, talents, your wonderful loving heart space is really nudging you to take a step, take a shot. You have nothing to lose except maybe finding a favorite road and making the perfect bull's eye. Draw the bow. Pick a road. Who knows, I may be out walking that day; perhaps we'll meet around the block.

Go in love. Do your best. Listen to your heart; it knows wonders beyond all words.

~Bright Star

Feb 2008, Are You Spiritually Constipated?

2008-02-29T19:41:00.000-08:00

“When the Spirit is free, all elements are as one. When the Spirit is tethered, separation is the view.” ~Bright Star

Are you Spiritually Constipated?

The body is an amazing machine. Not only does it have the ability to sustain itself despite abuses and misalignments, readjusting the spine to keep balance, creating new pathways when certain brain function decrease (the brain literally rewires itself to complete functions that are being called upon), and using strength in muscles to keep us upright. It has the ability to set it’s own time and reset as necessary (circadian rhythms). Hormone secretions at the perfect balance are created at just the right time to allow us to develop from children to adolescents to adults. The limbic system connects us to emotional levels of our experiences. This incredible machine we know as our body somehow knows just what nutrients to absorb and which are no longer needed. And through design, it eliminates toxins and waste materials.

What happens when the waste items are not eliminated? The body becomes toxic. The body becomes constipated, literally plugged up with stuff not needed any longer. The body is unable to perform at it's best, much less communicate clearly the messages it so desperately wants you to know. That can be painful and the body tries to let us know it needs help to get things moving out. So we take our walks, drink prune juice, up our water, get a massage, avoid or eliminate foods that make the situation worse, eat more oatmeal and other fibers, get an enema - whatever it takes to get the plumbing working again and bring relief to the great machine that has stalled out. In essence, we detox.

What if we applied this same idea to other parts of who we are. Our emotional, mental and spiritual sides to us have the same abilities to give us messages when we are trying to naturally move forward, release and just plain let go of things we don't need any longer. And when we resist, it can be just as painful as the physical. Maintaining unhealthy relationships and thoughts can make us toxic. If our whole being is working toward letting that toxic someone, something, someplace, old habit, or an old thought pattern release, but in our resistance we hold onto it, it's like being Spiritually constipated! And THAT can be painful!

Again, it's time to detox. Detoxing spiritually can help with physical detoxifying and vice versa, but only when one is willing to clear out, clean up and let go. I love to use the idea of a computer to explain the basics of being spiritually constipated. When you purchase a computer and it has programs already set up and ready to get you started, it is very exciting to learn what you have already installed. These basic programs are designed to help you learn the neat stuff you are capable of doing. Remember the first time you discovered Spell check? It's like learning a neat aspect of yourself that is helpful, but not always perfect. I have used spell check and it assumed a word that was similar, but not what I intended. But overall, is a good thing to use, so I just keep my eye out for those occasional incidences, and simply add to it's already built in repertoire.

Over time, however, our experiences that we encounter are a lot like upgrading our computer programming. The old original programs become obsolete and it becomes necessary to delete them in order for the new improved upgraded programming to really work it's magic. Thus it is so with the ideas we have, the ways of being we thought we always would be are suddenly becoming . . .well, obsolete. It becomes time to literally delete the old way of thinking and make way for the beautiful improved upgraded YOU!

It's not hard to imagine those moments when you are wanting to experience something that your heart is feeling very excited about (upgrade), but somewhere deep in you a small voice says (old program), "We don't do that. It's not right. I'm not worth that. If I listen to what I feel is the best for my overall wellness, it goes against all I have been taught - I should do what will bring in money. I can't quit my job and go on a whim. I can't leave the relationship - even though we aren't happy, we've been together/friends too long to go our separate ways." Can you see the conflict this creates to the Spirit? The anxiety over listening to the heart and what the mind creates as a control (guilt, shame, pressure from the fear of doing whatever) can be quite an issue. It's no wonder when people "crash" similar to a computer. Two programs running at the same time with conflicting information - which one overrides?

When two parts of yourself are in conflict, you are resisting the part of You that BY DESIGN is trying to detox, move things out, get things going, allowing you the release of toxic people, events, words, places, things, thoughts, ideas, - you name it! BY DESIGN you continually upgrade just by being you and experiencing new things, going places, trying something new and when it works, when the new thing is a fit in your life - you have upgraded. The trick is now to detox what you doesn't fit anymore. It's more than just a defragging of your particles, it is a white wash, a clean sweep, it's a renovation - and if you have ever done renovation you know it can be messy in the process. But, boy-oh-boy, is it worth it! The end results are stunning.

The messages and gentle nudges you get to let things go are on purpose, my dear ones. Just as your body works to eliminate the "stuff" you don't need, so does your spirit. This conflict of spiritual constipation can be easily resolved. Let it go. LET IT GO! "But it's hard!" you protest. The mind and ego are controlling that sentence. And by stating such, it simply creates more backup in the system, more toxic blockage. It's your choice. Your spirit will continue to work with you for awhile, just like the body does, but it isn't comfortable. If you wait too long, it's time to ask for help. Work with your body. Work with your Spirit. BY DESIGN you are able to detox these things, trust yourself. Trust that you know, in your heart, you know that it is safe to upgrade, and not only that, it is really, really fun.

Take a look at your life. The people. The places. The things. What makes you feel good? Open your heart to your greatest design. It already exists, the program is already running - just hit "play"! BY DESIGN, your Spirit is moving you to let go, be free and play.

Greatest blessings, joyous empowerments are awaiting, feed your spirit with love.
~Bright Star

This article and all articles are the property of Bright Star Inspirations and Cheryl Kaufmann. All material copywrited Feb 2008, all rights reserved. You may share the information in the article provided it it sourced to Bright Star Inspirations, Cheryl Kaufmann, www.brightstarinspirations.com or this blog.spot.

Jan 2008 - The Magic Ten-fold. You in 2008

2008-01-22T19:36:00.000-08:00

Jan 2008

The Magic Ten-fold.
You in 2008.

I have a fabulous friend who once told me, "I want to be the ten-fold."

"The ten-fold?" I asked.

"Yes! You know, when people say what you give out will return to you ten-fold?
Well, I want to BE the ten-fold."

I've often thought about this statement from time to time, as the most inspiring
messages are often from those great light bulb moments bubbling forth. What
would it be like if we all acted like we were that magic ten-fold? It's kind of like the
"pay it forward" notion, only today I would like to challenge each of you to apply it
to yourselves this year.

Many times I have shared with students, family and friends, "I know interesting
people who know interesting people." It's true! And through the many encounters
from many different -and interesting- sources, they have all agreed this year is going
to be a powerful one! This year is about creation! Your personal creations, what
you want most, this is the time to do it, create it, see it, dream it, BE it!

What if you were the ten-fold to yourself? What if you were actually in charge of
creating your glorious dreams to reality? What if your God-Source held your hand
and asked, "Song in my heart, Light of my eyes, this is your year, what can I/We
assist you with that would not only bring you joy but also ten others along the way
simply because you asked?" Of course, those who know me will not be surprised
when I question, why ten? Why not a hundred? Or a thousand? How could joy
possibly be contained to just ten? Do bubbles in the ocean rise up only ten feet? No,
they rise up until they reach the surface and then they pop joining all the other happy
oxygen molecules in the air! Wheeee!

Moving forward, make this year, beginning with today, the time you begin to look at
yourself as a completely worthy, creative being, full of golden light, ready to fizz,
and with that, you spontaneously create bubbles of joy all around you. When you
begin to practice being who you want to be, then you become that. Practice makes
perfect, remember? Practice being kind, loving, joyful. Practice getting enough
sleep, practice getting up with enough time to do what you desire for the day.
Practice what you want to see in a relationship by exhibiting the love and respect
toward yourself.

I received a very effective intuitive message the other day while working with a
friend. He really likes coffee. He really, really likes coffee. So after working with
him for awhile I asked him if he had ever coached a little league team. He said yes.
I asked him what they gave the kids. Water, Gatorade? Fresh fruit? Yes, yes, yes.
So, I asked, you never gave them coffee? No, of course not. Well, I gently broke it
to him, his kidneys and adrenals are kind of like his personal little league team. He's
responsible for them, and while they are still working as a team, they needed some
water, some rest, and some love.

So look at yourself. You and your team, which is not only your body, but your
mind, your heart, your spirit are the collective of who you are. Love who you are!
If you find an aspect about yourself that does not bring you joy, then please, please,
please, send love to that area of your being. Every thought you have that does not
bring you joy is reducing the reach of your Light. Fill yourself with love and there is
no room for anything else! When you are filled with love, it overflows, it expands, it
replicates, it inspires others, it works, it works, it works!

Sometimes, I need someone outside of myself to give me my own advice. Have
you ever had that happen to you? For example, when I was upset with a
situation, I have had students, friends and family tell me, "Don't forget to
breathe, smile, drink your water and have fun." AH, yes! It's true. We all have
knowledge, sometimes it just takes another to remind us of how creative we are
and how truly connected we are to each other and to our own hearts.

So in some ways it's easier to be the ten-fold to others. In some ways it's easier
to simply give fill-in-the-blank in order to feel accomplished. But what if you
gave it to yourself. Ok, yes, sometimes, giving to others is exactly what it takes
to fill ourselves with joy. But take a look, where do YOU need that extra love
inside? Find the space and send love, send joy, be your own personal ten-fold
to yourself. Let go, just be what you most desire; which is happy, safe and
loved. With this spaced filled, you naturally and effortlessly are the magical
ten-fold to others.

With love and joy, may this article be the ten-fold for whomever needs it most.

Blessings of creation, empowerment and joy,

~Bright Star

© 2008 Bright Star Inspirations

Dec 2007 - Your Golden Guide Wire

2008-01-22T19:35:00.000-08:00

“Follow your Golden Guide Wire. Everyone has one.” ~ Bright Star

Your Golden Guide Wire.

I was shown a wonderful message (intuitive vision) while working with a person recently. It was one of those confirmations for that individual person, but also has wide benefits that nudged me forward in sharing it through a message to you (thank you, A, for holding the space for this message!).Each of us has a Golden Guide Wire which we have available to us at all times. This wonderful wire has the look of strong golden wire rope, entwined upon itself, enforced by girth and proportion, and yet it is as small as common sewing thread. And even though it has the appearance of gold, it is not the soft metal we are used to.

This Golden Guide Wire is Spiritual in essence and actuality. It lies just to the left or right of you, depending on where you need it. It's purpose is just as it's title suggests - to guide. When we are walking through life and are unsure of the next step, we are able to reach out a single hand to find the guide wire and “ah-ha!” we know we are on track and can hold on to it for a while longer until we get the hang of the direction we are heading. Sometimes we reach over to find it out of desperation, unable to see, like the lights have turned off or the clouds have fallen around us - we feel blinded. Our hands reach out into emptiness to land upon the Golden Guide Wire. Always the perfect temperature, never too cold to touch nor too hot to handle, it is strength and comfort and always there. Due to it's versatile structure, it often blends into the environment undetected by others, as it should - for this is YOUR Golden Guide Wire, not another's - they have their own! Sometimes people think they can reach over to someone else's guide wire when they can't find their own. This is not a desirable action. It's like touching on the other person's life purpose. It would be a better action to have another help you find it, so you can carry on your own personal connection as planned. Sometimes, this is what Reiki can do.

Reiki is a facilitator. It helps the receiver to find empowerment in their own healing process, thus bringing them back to their own Golden Guide Wire. I have found consistently that there is some type of awakening that takes place between 3 and 4 sessions with Reiki and/or massage. It's almost as if the Golden Guide Wire may have brought them to helping themselves through these services, but then connection really seems to brighten, lighten and grow over a few sessions. And with continued sessions, wow - things really open up!

It's quite an exciting process to be witness to in the growth of another loving and wonderful Being of Light and the strength they begin to find in themselves. It's like watching a person go from holding the Golden Guide Wire ALL the time, to simply KNOWING where it is without the need to even make contact with it directly. At that point, it's almost like walking with a dear friend who knows where you are going - no map needed.

So while you are out and about in this busy time of the year, remember to be still and reach for your Golden Guide Wire if needed. It's there, always has been and always will be. Seek inner guidance to your next step. Smile to yourself knowing that your body is working to the best that you have allowed it to through choices of movement and nourishment - it's quite a magnificent machine. Grace your heart with gratitude of your blessings. Fulfill the grandeur of your Spirit by using the Golden Guide Wire when you need it and walk with it when your finger tips or palm touches it's simple greatness.

Blessings sent your way this December.
~Bright Star

© 2008 Bright Star Inspirations

Nov 2007 - Thanksgiving Kisses

2008-01-22T19:34:00.001-08:00

Nov 2007
“Love is something of which the heart never tires of being reminded.” ~Bright Star

Thanksgiving Kisses

“What did it feel like?” I asked my 4 year old son when he placed his hands on either side of my neck giving me Reiki. I hadn't asked him to give me Reiki, he did this act on his own. I had slept twisted the night before and could feel my vertebrae had shifted a bit pulling on my neck muscles.
“It feels like a lot of kisses.” He paused then asked me, “Remember when I taught you about how kisses go inside your body?”
“Can you tell me again? I like that lesson.” I told him.

He has told me this before. My little sage has appeared many times through gentle wisdom that feels so genuine and filled with love. What he has shared with me before is when a person sends kisses to another person, the kiss actually goes inside the person all the way to their heart. And sometimes it even makes it as far as their toes.

Sometimes my son will tell me that he is thinking about something or some place. When I ask him if he remembers much about it, his response is always the same, “No, but it's in my heart.” He has told me on several occasions that he “remembers all The Time in his heart.” Now upon first reading this you may interpret it as he is reminiscing about things, like he is consciously thinking about something. That is not the case. He is talking about knowing all things in his heart. Reaching a place of being with all his experiences and even if he does not remember the details of the events, his heart remembers all he has done. If you could hear the wisdom and sincerity when he states this, it would leave you in wonderment and for some reason it always fills me with hope and a overwhelming softness.

Just think for a moment if we were all as conscious of our hearts remembering all “The Time.” If we knew consciously that our Beings on all levels have all the knowledge we need to know in every moment about where we have been, but we don't have to relive the experiences to connect with what it means with us today . .. wow. What a place of Being. That sentence may confuse some of you, and that's ok. Stay with me.

Many people come to me with issues that they may or may not realize they are still holding onto on a very deep level. But the body has a unique way of communicating. It has a language all it's own. Sometimes I am honored to be able to communicate with some of it's messages in order to see why the person has, say a tight shoulder, for example. It could be that the shoulder is remembering an experience over and over again like a skip in a record (remember those?). It takes an act of consciousness to move the needle over to play the next song, otherwise, it continues to carve a deeper groove in the vinyl. Even if you upgrade to a DVD or CD in this analogy, a deep scratch will not allow the information to be read clearly, sometimes resulting in a totally void disk. Well occasionally, a minor scratch appears (pick the media of your choice), and there is enough information that can still be maintained to make it function more or less without much problem.

My son has the ability to somehow recognize the small scratches, takes note of them and then shines up the media source and returns it play the next song. I can only imagine for him, it's like remembering a familiar piece of music, it doesn't matter any more what the words are or that it has a minor scratch somewhere, it's more about still feeling it resonating somewhere inside. And if he needs to recall it, he simply has to look in his heart to find it. Do you have an old familiar song somewhere deep inside of you that you know, but couldn't sing it if you had to recall it in it's entirety?

The beauty of remembering all “The Time” is that you know in your heart that nothing is lost. No one is left behind. There are no regrets. There are no wrongs or rights. There are simply some things in your life you remember and some places you have been. You don't have to read the book again to know what the book is about and you don't have to re-live everything you have experienced in order to remember the parts of it that your heart already knows.

Change is taking place in many ways right now. When you are not sure where to go next or how to handle the situation, sit and be still. Ask your heart what it knows. Use the words, “I am asking for help with ____________.” Listen to the quiet wisdom that a four year old can offer - your heart knows all “The Time”. Guidance from your inner being can be powerful, but you must remember to ASK for this connection to take place.

The month of November for most of those in the United States will have some focus on our Thanksgiving Holiday. But more than anything, right now in this moment, I want you to remember this year's Thanksgiving Kisses. According to my son, they go in and it's like 100 kisses all around. So as you are saying your blessing and prayers of Thanksgiving this year, please add a silent loving kiss to each of those on your list. My son says that those kisses go into the heart of the recipient and I believe him. I send you all Thanksgiving Kisses, and hope they go all the way to your toes! Open your heart to remember this all “The Time”.

May you be clear, connected and guided, loved, honored and blessed this November.

~Bright Star

© 2008 Bright Star Inspirations

Oct 2007 - Two kinds of Joy . . .(maybe)

2008-01-22T19:32:00.000-08:00

“By creating something out of inspired Joy, you bring one more person closer to finding it in themselves”
~ Bright Star

Two kinds of JOY, . . . maybe . . ..

I had an article all written up, but somehow it didn't seem quite like the article that would be sent out for all of you to read. So I waited and asked for clarification. This evening this article was given to me as I worked on a house project. OH yes, my house project. For those who don't know me on a personal level, I don't mind painting a room, learning how to do something constructive around the house (like laying tile or re-texturing a wall)- if it feels creative to me, then I'm all for it. Currently it is updating the family room. Last month was updating the Massage Studio.

So there I was thinking in the back of mind that I really need to be working on the website and get it updated instead of painting. And then I thought how it really brings me joy to do these projects that are created around the house. Then I realized the article was already written and it all revolved around this very thought.

At first I was thinking how there are two kinds of joy. The one that brings me joy because of something I do, like my projects. I find fulfillment in seeing the potential of a space and having it transform. Feeling that inspired force pull me forward in taking a risk in creativity is exciting. Like picking a color to go on a wall that feels good to me, one I enjoy, putting it together with what I already have available and seeing the outcome unfold right before my eyes. Or similarly, when I was in college I was deeply interested in photography. One of my prized photographs of an old gate in an abandon church was taken on an inspired whim. My professor secretly submitted it to a competition and said, “Oh, by the way, I submitted your photograph, results should in be soon.” All I could think of was how did she got a copy of my photo? Then the night before I got married, I received the First place award for the Rockie Mountain Collegic Photography Contest. I won first out of those submissions from all colleges west of the Rockie Mountains. Cool, huh? The joy I had in taking the photograph was purely for my creative joy. The rest was all bonus!

So as my hand swipes my hair out of my face (again) and I reach across the wall with the paint roller, my mind wonders to what my husband will think of the room when it is complete. Then I realize the second kind of joy. This Joy #2 is the joy experienced when you do something you know will make ANOTHER person happy. Like getting their favorite goodie and surprising them just for the heck of it. Or dropping a note in the mail with a smile just because they crossed your mind. Doing an action that you know will bring someone else joy is an outward expression generated FOR that person. It takes kindness to want to acknowledge that person in a way you know will bring them joy. It's a place of great integrity coming forward in a creative expression. While my husband was out of town, I decided to get a jump start on the room, easing the load he would have complete. Through this act, I feel joy in my creative expression of personal accomplishment, but also my husband will be happy that he doesn't have to do it (I like to paint more that he does).As my thoughts linger on my husband's joy, I begin to feel even more joyful! Then I realize, there is really only one kind of joy - not two. When I complete Joy #2, an action that makes another happy, it really in turn makes me happy to see their joy. So all actions, personal to the self or outward toward another, both have the same effect of creating joy for me! It's all about what brings me joy!

A very smart person (whom I won't name here, but they know who they are), once said, “Don't do it for them, do it for yourself.” Originally this was in context of consciously being aware of actions that others may or may not care about what you are doing. I f they don't care and you set yourself up to be disappointed, then there is no joy. BUT, if it brings you joy regardless of what another thinks or how they participate, then joy is accomplished regardless. And if by chance your actions bring them joy as well, then it's bonus! Your joy has become infectious!

“Do it for yourself.” I'm not endorsing selfish acts of greed and pleasure and control. This about listening to those gentle nudges inside of you that you know is a gift of happiness and most often it simply is in complete and utter alignment of who you really are - that is joy. These are the joyful acts that do not create any confusion as to their place in your life, they simply exist in a beautiful way and they are doing their jobs perfectly by bringing you joy.

When I started asking some of my students if they were reading these articles and the response was mixed, at first I was disappointed, but I had to ask myself - why do I do them then? Why do I take the time to compose them at all? The answer was simple - I enjoy it and I feel inspired to do so! If the articles reach another person, then like the photo of the gate, we may have a surprise winner and it's a bonus! And if not, it was still worth it to me to be creatively expressive because it brought me joy to listen to the gentle nudges of my inner being and see it's potential unfold before my eyes, just like my house projects.

If you do something for another that makes them happy but it doesn't make you happy, then there is no joy. Reevaluate. Create a way to bring joy into it either directly or through a Joy #2 action. Joy #2, remember, is an outward expression directed for a person that it makes you happy to see them happy.

Live in joy, create joy for yourself, see it in others and joy will find you in all facets of your life. (And just to give you a heads up, sometimes Joy has a sense of humor and may arrive incognito!)

Ok, I'm off, I have more projects of joy awaiting!

May you be lit from within with inspiration, creativity, kindness and joy!

~Bright Star

© 2008 Bright Star Inspirations