For the Love of Goldens

Several years ago I decided to adopt Lucy Lou.

I had had a Golden Retriever (Penny) for many years until she peacefully made her transition. After grieving for two years, I decided it was time. So, I went to Golden Bond Rescue in Oregon and submitted an application.

After several interviews, including an in-home and one with the foster mom, Lucy came home. She has been an important part of my family ever since.

Those that have met her would agree that there is not much that riles her. She is sweet, loving, and completely addicted to tennis balls. With a HUGE heart and an expressive personality, Lucy has been a source of endless love, lots of laughs, and constant companionship.

She, along with every other Golden I have ever met, is an adoring, gentle being. That is why it breaks my heart to once again hear about the atrocities of puppy mills. In this particular case, several Goldens were rescued from a mill in Burns, Oregon and are in the process of being reacclimated to loving environments.

While Golden Bond is in desperate need of donations (they expect vet bills to exceed $10,000), many, many dogs country-wide are in desperate need of homes.

I am not blogging because I have alterior motives. No one from Golden Bond asked me to write about this. But, I am so moved, so DISAPPOINTED by people who make a living through the suffering of loving, furry animals.

I know, I know. There are many atrocities throughout the world. People do awful things to each other. People do awful things to animals and our planet. So, where so we begin to right the wrongs?

There is only so much each individual can do. But, collectively, these small efforts amount to great change. Figure out what moves you. What small step you want to take. I will admit - I offered a donation to Golden Bond. And, quite honestly, if I were in Oregon, I would be at the shelter lending a hand. So, my call to action is to find a shelter here in New Orleans and do the same.

If you feel moved to donate, I'm sure Golden Bond would be grateful. If not, just consider a small step - a donation of time, energy, love, into anything that would help right a wrong and continue to shape our world into the loving, positive place it is meant to be.

Finding Purpose (in Manolos?)

Snow Day today! Gosh I love snow days. Like I said last month, they make me feel like I am back in elementary school and have woke up to the GREATEST DAY EVER!

Of course, every day should be the greatest day ever. And, today came pretty close, in a simple kind of way.

I went and saw a movie, which is a rare treat for a Monday afternoon. Confessions of a Shopaholic - which I undoubtedly related to more than I really wish to admit. Nevertheless, the main character's real identity, which eventually surfaces, is what I aspire to be - funny, edgy, fresh, inspired.

So, how do I get there? My "magic cards" are not the answer, and I am finding there are better ways to spend money than using these cards on Prada bags and Gucci boots. (Ok, I will admit that it would be amazing to actually own these or, my ultimate indulgence, a pair of Manolos.)

But, I just don't think I'll ever be able to justify the average $600 price tag when my conscious continues to remind me how far that money could go for better causes. Of course, from a purely feminine perspective, some of Manolo's designs are SO gorgeous!

It's funny how sometimes we are taken by surprise. And, how sometimes life takes us by surprise. Never would I have thought that I would blog about fashion or post a video about shoes. Come on. This is the woman who finds enjoyment hiking through nature, thanking the trees for their continued support to our environment and oxygen supply.

But, there really is more to it. This post is not about shoes, or bags, or shopping. Instead, it's about being the people God meant us to be. It's about living an inspired, full, complete life. Materialism cannot get us there because it is the connection to purpose which grounds us and makes life worth the uncertainty.

Just as in the movie, where Becky found truth and purpose in writing about complex financial concepts by relating them to fashion, so must we all strive to find purpose by exploring the things we are conversant in. We all have the gift to simplify the complex - and this can come in a variety of forms.

Today's Daily Word begs the question:

Am I feeling there is so much more I can do in life or desire to do with my life? That feeling may be an inner prompting that reminds me I have a great work to do, great gifts to give, and a great life to live.

I live by the belief that we all have specific gifts that we are born with. Our purpose lies in unearthing these gifts and then using them to the betterment of humanity and Mother Earth. So, while I know I will probably never own those Manolos, I also know that I feel inspired and complete when I connect with purpose and live a life of love and full expression.

It's been a long time, but I've been kinda busy. Life, love, graduating, moving...all too much to handle in a few short months!

I successfully defended and submitted my thesis. So, it's official. I will get my Master's on December 19th. What a long, uncertain journey this has been. And, it seems it is only just beginning!

I received Orders to New Orleans. A brand new place for a brand new adventure. Which, in a lot of ways, got me to thinking about where I am and where I choose to go. Choice. What a powerful word. Some believe that our thoughts dictate those things which we choose to bring into our lives. This sounds like a great ideal on the surface, but I struggle with Human Nature and the power of negative thinking. We all do it, it is just the degree that varies. Does that mean that we all attract things into our lives which we truly do not want?

I never thought I "wanted" to go to New Orleans. In fact, I was all geared up to head out to Hawaii and spend three fabulous years on the beach. But, alas, the Coast Guard had something else in mind. Although, I really believe that God has something else in mind. Which is fine, except sometimes I feel like I am the last one to be let in on the secret. In this case, I have NO IDEA what this new adventure holds in store. Yet, I know it is the right thing because my faith allows me no other option.

I think choice is really pretty simple: either try to maintain a false sense of control over ALL aspects of life OR do what you can to make things work out the way you think you want them to and then LET GO of the rest, give it to God, and let FAITH take over. Ok, easier said than done. But, what I've discovered during this part of my journey is that the latter (while difficult) is so much EASIER in the long run. Because, really, the best way to make God laugh is to tell him (or her) that you have a plan.

Our plans are just that - plans. They are not concrete. They are not what define us. Yes, plans and goals are important because they give us tangible markers, a way to move forward and grow. BUT, we have to remain flexible and have FAITH that the Universe provides and all will work out as it should.

So, with that, I am off to continue packing and move on to the next great adventure. See you in New Orleans!

Finding Your Passion

Finding motivation is sometimes a difficult thing. I was reading Frederic Premji's blog post: 7 Questions to Finding Your True Passion. It got me to thinking, once again, about following my own journey and keying in on my own passions.

I speak often of this topic with my friends. Somehow one would think by the time your reach your mid-thirties you would have everything all figured out. But, surprisingly, many of my friends admit that they have not yet connected with their true passions and continue to get swept up in the fast pace of everyday life.

From a close friend, here's a podcast that discusses her struggles in this area:

Finding Your Passion Podcast

Through the Eyes of an 8-Year-Old

UGA Alumni Association opened up Six Flags Friday night for students, faculty, alumni and guests. Although Atlanta's traffic precluded us from getting there until 2 hrs. after the park opened, my three guests and I spent four hours racing from roller coaster to roller coaster, seeking the next big adrenaline rush.

One of my guests was 8. It's funny because as we grow up, we tend to forget how 8-year-olds view the world. While we saw excitement and adventure in each of the thrill rides, he viewed them as scary obstacles that he was not quite ready to face. I have to give him credit though. He waited in the long lines with us, all the while contemplating his choice and giving a tremendous amount of thought to whether he would be able to at last face his fears and ride the upside-down loopty loops.

He decided to that the big roller coasters were just too much, so the smaller, tamer wooden ones would be a better springboard. After standing in line for 2 hours to ride the Goliath, we raced over to The Great American Scream Machine in the hopes of getting him his first roller coaster experience. Unfortunately, the person working the ride had notions other than letting us on the last car of the day.

So, long story short, this amazing young kid didn't have the opportunity to ride his first coaster because the attendant was having a bad day. The attendant wanted to go home and was adamant that the ride was CLOSED. Granted, it was 2 or 3 minutes after the chain was put across the entrance to the ride. We did get there just after the cut-off. But, other people were waiting and there was one more car set to make the final run.

The 8-year-old waited. Again, patiently. Finally ready to face his fears and see this roller coaster head-on. But, the attendant would have none of it. He was not moved by our pleas or the boy's tear-streaked face. How do you, as an adult, explain to an 8-year-old that he can't do what took him all night to get up the courage to do because one person wants to maintain a full-on power trip? How do you, as an adult, explain to an 8-year-old the complexity of power struggles and unkind deeds when all he sees is the world through untainted eyes?

We tried. And, in some ways, I think he understood. Even though the attendant was rude and the expletives muttered under his breath unacceptable (especially in front of the kids), I fully believe in karma and KNOW that it is a circular chain of events. What goes around comes around - or so the saying goes.

In that moment, one of those life lessons occurred that both parties learned from. Sometimes, when rules are concerned, it is better to consider the OVERALL PICTURE and make a decision based on the impact a POSITIVE ACTION will have. This is how we explained the situation to him. And, in his 8-year-old wisdom, he just nodded and realized that the attendant had made a poor judgement call.

We were able to get on one more ride - Monster Plantation - before leaving the park. And, interestingly enough, the two women working that ride, whom had also been there the entire day, greeted us with pleasantries and smiles. "Those women," the 8-year-old commented, "were really nice. That's how you should treat people!"

The lesson I think we all need to be reminded of is simple. It's so much easier to be positive, to be kind, and to live a life of love and compassion than one of negativity and unkind deeds. As far as the roller coaster scenario, it would have taken half the energy for the attendant to let the young boy ride on the last car of the day than expel the negativity and arguments. After all, the car went. In the whole scheme of things, what harm would it have done to let one 8-year-old ride and conquer his fear?

We can all learn a lot from our kids. Take the time to view the world through their eyes. Simplicity. Compassion. Forgiveness. All seem to come easy for them. They should come easy to us as well.

Nuggets of Wisdom from the Work Place

(Thanks Dr. Russell for the photo.)

Twelve years is a long time to be out of the academic arena. Coming back in, after working in two separate, and very diverse career fields, has been difficult. However, after listening and engaging in several discussions about graduation jitters and future uncertainties with several bright, educated, enthusiastic Seniors, I began to realize that perhaps my transition was not as difficult as I thought.

While my own undergraduate graduation seems murky and long-gone, the thought of things I wish I'd known still lingers. So, with that sentiment, I do have some words of advice I would like to share. Here they are, for whatever they are worth:

1. Hand-holding stopped in kindergarten. It's up to YOU to be assertive. Don't be afraid to ask questions or admit you don't know something. BUT, be willing to take initiative to find the answers you are seeking.

2. No one expects you to come into a job knowing everything. What is expected is enthusiasm. You need to take the lead (even if you are relatively clueless) and, at the same time, exude a humbleness in acknowledging that you still have a lot to learn.

3. Remember that all of your bosses, leaders and members of the upper echelon started somewhere. Most likely, they were just as nervous jumping, feet first, into the professional realm. Just realize, they continue to put their pants on one leg at a time - just like everyone else. Don't idolize them. Learn from them and respect how far they've come.

4. Everything is as you choose to make it. That means your ATTITUDE is key. Do you choose to be positive and welcome challenges as growth opportunities or negative and view them as another painful process you have to go through? What you put out is what you will get back.

5. No one, no thing and the World in general owes you nothing. Conversely, I have come to believe that we owe of ourselves and can do best by giving the World our gifts. Take some time to hone in on your passions, your gifts and your strengths. Then use these to the betterment of humanity and the world at large.

6. DON'T BE AFRAID to listen to your intuition and follow your dreams. While it sounds cliche, we are given intuition for a reason - to fulfill your life's purpose. If you follow your gut, you will follow your passion and, in doing so, will create happiness.

7. Don't get wrapped up in the rumor mill and office politics. It's not worth your time or energy. The negativity that is inevitably associated with these things is an energy sap and you could spend your talents and time in much more creative, worthwhile endeavors.

8. Hard work pays off. Truthfulness pays off. Being true to yourself and who you inherently are pays off. Don't try to be someone or something you are not. You are a unique INDIVIDUAL for a reason. Capitalize on your own uniqueness and quit trying to be like everyone else. How boring would this world be if we were all alike?

9. In the long run, material gain is NOT important. Your compassion, light and willingness to take the time to help others (yes, even your neophyte coworkers) is what counts. Leadership is often a lesson learned by example. BE that example. Don't be afraid...your intuition will guide you.

10. Probably the toughest lesson yet - BALANCE. Work is important (it pays the bills) but family and self is important too. Don't forget about yourself - as this is the easiest element to let go of. When EVERYTHING else takes priority in your life, remember, YOU are just as important as the job, the career, the kids' soccer game, the grocery shopping. Don't be selfish but don't let your DREAMS and SELF disappear as you move forward.

So, that's it - my nuggets of wisdom. I realize there are a lot of DON'Ts in this post. (Ironically, negatives words are often ones I tend to shy away from.) However, after a 12 year learning process, it seems easier to point out the negatives (which I struggled through) in this post because I think these are the things which will benefit those the most.

To the graduating Seniors...good luck and stay positive. Be aware and positive in your actions and the rest will take care of itself.

Lessons Learned - A Continuing Education

I was thinking about a myriad of lessons I think I've learned (or at least acknowledged) over the past eight months of singledom and personal renewal. Some came rushing back today, through a series of strange, wonderful and trying events. Others have been percolating for awhile. I guess some seem redundant. Nevertheless, these are my philosophies, my guidelines, the things I try to incorporate in my everyday practice of living a balanced, fulfilling, healthy, harmonious life.

1. (This lesson was reiterated this morning - a hard one at best.) It's not for me to look for or force relationships...it's for God to place them in my life when the time is right. So I remind myself when they don't work out as planned, let go and be at Peace.

2. You can't keep yourself behind barriers (hiding behind walls) and synonymously live a truly compassionate lifestyle.

3. We are all human, we are all imperfect, we all have faults. But, you still have to find a BALANCE in personal, professional, spiritual and family circles. Do what is right for you and be conscious of others as you do.

4. Life is so precious...it is such a gift. Because it is short, it's important to let go of the things that aren't working or aren't right. Make room and time for those things that are right (as you feel in your gut) as they are the things that are meant to be in your life.

5. You are ALWAYS where you are supposed to be - even if you think you should be somewhere else. (If you feel a strong pull to be somewhere else, perhaps it's time to move to the new emotional, spiritual or physical place where you are NOW meant to be.)

6. Breaking out of relationships is never an easy task. Every time someone goes, a piece of the soul goes with him or her.

7. Whatever is going to happen is going to happen. So mote it be. BUT, you are still responsible for your actions, thoughts, words and energy that you put forth into the universe.

8. Live fully. We are blessed with this precious gift of life and MEANT to do wonderful, amazing, compassionate, kind things. Live every day with that philosophy at the forefront of your thoughts, actions and words.

9. You never know when your smile or kind word will change another's attitude, brighten her outlook, or turn negativity into a positive (and healing) force. Smile often and laugh out loud.

10. Trust yourself to know and act upon what is best for YOU. After all, who could know you better? Hone in on your talents and USE THEM. They are gifts that are meant to MAKE A DIFFERENCE during your time on Earth.

11. You ALWAYS have a choice. Do you choose to be happy and positive or unhappy and negative? Remember, what you put out there is what you will attract.

Master Cleanse - Day 2

I'm Hungry. A slight side effect from the fast. That and being perpetually chilly. I decided to approach this morning's salt water breakfast with a different attitude. As discussed yesterday, I took every sip with a sense of gratitude and reflection, listening to the birds outside my kitchen window and feeling blessed in knowing that I am at a place in my own personal journey where I can afford the luxury of taking time out to do a 10-day detox.

Luxury seemed to be a recurrent theme throughout my day. As I was warming up in the bath this morning, I was considering the luxury of time. It seems like sometimes we have all that we need - perhaps more than we need - yet there is ALWAYS too much to do and never enough time to get it all done. How does that work?

Case in point, I spent a luxurious 20 minutes in the tub, perusing some homework and contemplating the whole time continuum. It seemed like I had forever handed to me, yet I still was late to church. Of course, I am habitually late. I don't mean to be. Guess it is one of my character flaws.

Nevertheless, I realize that the clock keeps ticking and I am not getting any younger. When I consider what this means, I think about family, travel, and PURPOSE. Reverend Mary Covington spoke today at church, and her message was "CALLED ON or CALLED OUT” As she reminded me, we all have a purpose. We have all been placed here for a definitive reason. Spending forever trying to figure out what that purpose is, though, is a waste of time.

Inherently we all know why we are here. It is what we feel connected to, what we feel passionate about, what makes us smile, what motivates us from the fire deep within our souls. Unfortunately, sometimes we get stuck in a rut and, instead of finding the courage and compassion to honor our Divine purpose, we push it further and further from the forefront of daily living until it becomes a distant glimmer.

We all have been CALLED ON to fulfill our purpose in life. Sometimes that might be being an amazing friend, a great listener, or simply a compassionate human being. Others have more specific callings - being a healer, a teacher, a provider, a history-maker. If we have been CALLED OUT, it is time to act. No more pushing your Divine purpose to the wayside. Acting takes COURAGE and COURAGE is often a difficult thing to muster. But, because acting on our PURPOSE is rooted to our very core, our essence of being, there is no reason to fear it.

Live as you were meant to and the rest will take care of itself.