We have all heard the term “when the dust settles”. It is challenging to navigate moments of chaos, as tension and emotions are heightened. Let’s shift our perspective on how we feel and view chaos. For many, it can be triggering and have a negative connotation. What if chaos is the bridge to growth? Maybe our societal conditioning has blinded us to the deeper value of these “chaotic” moments? Are we aware that there are levels to “chaos”? Are we aware that unprocessed moments can exacerbate what we perceive as chaotic or stressful? We may find ourselves in a moment of accountability that blindsides us and chalk it up to chaos. We may find ourselves broken down in a nearby town. Is this chaotic? If we look internally at our own definitions, understandings, and reactions to these moments, we are gifted with a bridge to growth and freedom. Understanding ourselves, why we react, and how to move past these triggers falls solely on our own shoulders.

This, my friends, is the internal work, and the choice is always ours: to run, hide, and blame, or relax, be accountable, and face whatever is bubbling up from our internal melting pot. Chaos and discomfort reveal what is lurking within us, like a caged animal or an avalanche ready to be unleashed. We must dig deep and use our courage. The dragon presents itself often, in the ego's whispers to ignore. FEAR, face everything and RISE, the time is now!

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Sitting in meditation gives us the opportunity to become observers of our own minds. This practice is key because it breaks us out of the idea that we are the mind's chatter. As we sit observing, how can we be the chatterer and the observer at the same time? My friends, we are the observers; we are the consciousness being housed in these bodies. This process is shown in the Movie “Revolver”, the main character realizes the tricks and deception of his own ego, the mind's endless chatter. As we come to this realization, the illusion begins to crumble. Coming to this understanding can create a profound shift in our realities, perspectives, and perceptions. It can create turmoil, chaos, and discomfort. The ego will fight us internally to maintain control and the illusion that we are it. Once we see this, we cannot unsee it. We are here to live authentically, in truth, abundance, and vibrancy. The battle between our egos and our spirits becomes obvious to us. There is no going back, and we must show courage and align with our authentic selves, our spirits. As our own mask begins to slip and fall away, we are given new levels of awareness and can begin to see the illusion of others and the world we live in today.

Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/XMCHudHYGTU

From the beginning of our journey on this planet, we feel a yearning and need for connection and love. As humans, we are social beings and the early years of nurturing and teachings code us accordingly. Taking into consideration how critical our younger years are, we can look within ourselves and begin to put the puzzle pieces together. Sitting in silence allows us to reflect deeply on our “why”. We can begin to see patterns of thoughts and behaviors that may be seeking love, attention, validation, or questioning self-worth. As we become aware of these patterns, we are presented with an opportunity to dig deeper and begin to choose a different reaction, choice and behavior. It will be a process of recognizing our own patterns and modifying the behavior until it genuinely becomes part of our being, and authentic. The process of sitting in silence and deeply reflecting becomes smoother as we practice it, and life begins to slow down and become more meaningful. Choosing to turn inwards instead of seeking outside of ourselves is a key sign on our hero’s journey that we are indeed on the path. All the answers we seek are already inside of us, waiting to be uncovered. Show courage and sit with yourself.

Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/r9_19hMF-js

In today’s world, we can be bombarded with information, influence, and propaganda. Groupthink and social conformity can push us further from Self-awareness and critical thinking. It is key that we use discernment in what we expose ourselves and our children to. Music, movies, television “programming”, social media, news, and groupthink all play a part in our society's condition. So, ask yourself, “Who am I? “ By focusing on our internal awareness, we stay grounded. Choosing to self-identify as … You fill in the blank; we relinquish our power and authenticity and find ourselves seeking outside validation. When we look inwards and validate ourselves through self-awareness and self-knowledge, we tap into an unshakeable presence and internal knowing. This term and idea of identifying as are relatively new to the mainstream; we must be aware of how they are being wielded in our society. We build ourselves up through experience, connection, self-awareness, and facing challenges that shake us, helping us evolve into better versions of ourselves. The term live and let live was once mainstream and very popular; it’s a classic that still has a profound impact. We have unprogrammed and reprogrammed ourselves along this journey. Be very mindful of identifying as something outside of yourselves, friends.

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Frustration and anger can manifest in many ways in our lives: mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. We have all had moments of chaos, feeling it building and building until it boiled over. The energy and state of mind created can be highly toxic for those catching our rath, and our own physical health as well. So, where does our frustration originate from, and how do we deal with it to minimize it? We can continue the cycle by blaming outside sources, people or situations, or we can turn inwards and get to the root source by taking full accountability for our actions and thoughts. Do we see our own patterns and how it affects others and us? Becoming aware and choosing to address our frustrations starts the process of understanding and diffusing them. Honesty, willingness, and courage are our tools in this time of ownership and action. By digging deep into us, we unlock who we are and our whys. We are operating from the ego and fear, or authenticity and love. The choice is yours, my friends. Owning all the internal layers of who we are can be scary and some intense work, but I can only promise you liberation on the other side!

Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/DRvqq6s7nc0

“It takes a village to raise a child.” This saying accurately depicts my childhood. Looking back on it, God provided what I needed in an unconventional way. He used neighbors, grandparents, and sometimes complete strangers. When we are children, this is hard to comprehend, as we are unaware of the big picture. As kids, we are all dealt the most random of obstacles and blessings. Take a moment to reflect on your challenges and blessings. What really stands out as a positive and as a negative? Sit with these thoughts as they reflect in meditation. As adults, we must find a path of healing past the childhood moments that haunt us. It is our responsibility to heal so we can show up as healthier versions of ourselves for our children, thereby breaking the pattern of repeating. Focusing on healing our past puts us back in a position of power, authenticity, and alignment. We begin to see moments as opportunities to learn from, “why is this happening to me?” now becomes, “why is this happening to me?” We realize we are the ultimate choice makers on our hero’s journey!

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Have you ever thought of your life in terms of Expansion vs. contraction? Are we living a connected life full of new growth, learning, excitement, and fulfillment? Maybe it’s the flipside: disconnection, stagnation, loneliness, and seclusion. For deeper self- understanding, let’s use our awareness and look at our mental operating system. Is it a growth mindset, or a fixed mindset? We can truly design the life we want at any stage in our journey. Choosing an expansion mindset is one of the keys. Reading the above, is it obvious to us that a growth mindset is the only way to proceed? How bad do we want the life we dream of? Are we able, capable, and ready to make the choices and sacrifices necessary? Are we honoring our intuition? Do we hear the whispers of God? Do we need to be more loving, assertive, accountable, and forgiving? Making the time to sit with ourselves free of distractions allows us to process the unresolved. Expansion waits for us on the other side, my friends!

Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/XHtR1dBRbZE

I am my brother's keeper; this statement is revered by people of integrity. It is an excellent example of Each One Teach One. It is exemplified by supporting yourself, your family & friends, and your community. Each one teach one is about becoming an individual and honoring your intuition with on-the-spot action. It is the opportunity to step into a void and be of service. What makes life so beautiful is the co mingling of layers of different customs and ways of being. We are all part of a community regardless of skin color or background, because we are human and the shared space is where we inter exchange. Life is sacred and tomorrow is not promised, so be of service to others when and where you can; you may build a lifelong friend in a straightforward chance encounter. Do we live our lives contracting or expanding - mind, body, and spirit? Step into the moment, lead with courage and love, be of service to someone in need, and Each One Teach One.

Check out the video here: https://youtu.be/ne9RKdo_T2U