Take that Winter!

As I write this blog on the 24th of March with temperatures and wind chills still a cold heartless force to be reckoned with, it most certainly seems like winter has defeated us and taken a toll our spirits. Unwelcomed, it has persisted and very rudely extended it's stay. (Shame on you winter!) It has slowly, painfully, dulled our enthusiasm and energy with it's relentless snow storms, grey days, and temperatures that would scare even Frosty! The lightness of foot we enjoy in the spring and summer has been weighed down by heavy winter boots, bulky coats and long underwear, and I for one am not taking it any more!!!
I refuse to be taken hostage by winter one more day. I am going to focus my attention on finding a way to thrive without down feathers,wool socks and ear muffs. I am going to rekindle the light heartedness and joy the other (nicer) seasons inspire.
I am going to dig out my summer shorts, sandals and sunhat, stoke up the fire, (a girl has to survive!) and wear them around the house! Ok, maybe I will just look at them and get them ready for the glorious day I can wear them without fear of frostbite. Take that, winter weather in spring!!
No, I will no longer be hostage to the weather. I will create my own forecast every day, warm, sunny heart, with zero chance of spirits being dampened. I will visualize hot sunny days, paddling, swimming, hiking and lazing in the sun. I will not look at the weather forecast or listen to other people grumbling and getting angry at the weather (sorry grumbling friends) I will focus on the the good things in my life, count my blessings and as soon as I can, book a flight to Florida and get the heck out of here!!

Dear Cold Hearted Winter

You cannot take me hostage,

not any longer,

cold  hearted winter,

I will survive

no, I shall thrive,

I shall rise above...

I will watch I Love Lucy videos

I will dance in my pj's

I will drink wine,

sing while I cook

and write silly blogs,

no, you will not defeat me

I will thrive!

( but could you please stop with the freaking cold weather now!!!)

sincerely,

Penny

PS   I only said please because I know Winter knows where I live!

About Love

Some people think love is a feeling. Others believe it is an action. I have come to realise it is both, and so much more. Love, I believe, is the essence of who we all are. It is the indescribable energy within us that brings us both joy and peace. It is the hand of kindness, compassion, acceptance and tolerance. It is the source of our creativity, the light within us that is there wherever we go and whatever we do.

The first time I ever fully connected with this part of me, it began a transformation that continues today. I felt I was finally home, and this energy inside that loved unconditionally, helped me to learn to love myself that way. It ignited a strength that comes from knowing who you are is truly beautiful.

Now, don't get me wrong, I am not always able to be this love, I have my imperfections and struggles. But I also have the inspiration to be better, to love more, because I know it is who I am...who we all are. 

The cliche, life is a journey, is in fact, for me, an inspiration. My journey is to grow in love. To consciously connect with this part of me, to listen and ask questions of my heart, to honour it's wisdom, and allow it to flow through me via my creative expression, personal growth and connection with others. 

We all need to be loved, to feel we are seen and heard. I believe it starts with seeing ourselves, then we can begin to let who we are, the love within us, blossom.

One of the reasons I write is that it is one of the most powerful ways I connect with the love inside of myself. I have learned that listening to my heart, recognising what my passions are, and owning my unique talents, is one of the greatest gifts I can give myself.

So, on this day that people speak of love and express their love for one another, I urge you to love yourself! I urge you to take some time to visit your heart, tell it that you love it and you are listening. Then ask, how can I love myself today?What wisdom would you like to share.You may be surprised what you get...

 To my partner, friends and family who listen to me, and help me to feel seen and loved every day, I thank you for all your acts of  kindness and compassion, they are truly appreciated. Most importantly, to my own heart, thank you for the strength, comfort, joy, and the inspiration you bring every day, I love you and I am listening...

the beauty,
 strength, and wisdom
 of the heart

is never ending,

we can visit anytime

and be transformed...

pbowman

Fragility and Strength

Feathered Friends

It is nearing the end of a very long winter and as I watch the birds at the feeders outside our living room windows I feel inspired. They are such fragile, tiny creatures with such extraordinary strength. These amazing birds endure temperatures of forty below along with wind gusts that have toppled trees down like match sticks! I marvel how such tiny bodies can survive such harsh conditions and I wonder if it is more than instinct that keeps them alive.
 These fascinating little creatures bring a smile to my heart every time I watch them hurry and compete with one another to get the seeds that will somehow nourish them. Perhaps it is the long winter or the time spent alone, but I have come to see them as having human characteristics ( I am not naming them yet and inviting them in for dinner, so I think I am okay).
 Some of the birds, like the chickadees, seem happy and content all the time. When I go out and fill the feeders, even though I cannot see them, they let me know with their cheery greeting that they are pleased to see me (okay, pleased to see the food.). Some of my other feathered friends ( yes, I called them friends) like the blue jay, are not quite as cheery, and are often sporting a scowl. As a matter of fact, I swear they give me dirty looks when I stand between them and the feeder.
 Although the blue jays are some of the most beautiful birds, they tend to be bullies, chasing the smaller birds away, intimidating them with their larger size (and scowl I suppose). Thankfully, not all the birds are afraid of them. There is a beautiful downy woodpecker that feeds at the same spot who remains calm and stands his ground as the blue jay squawks his impatience. I have noticed that it is the bullies who fly away at the first glimpse of someone approaching, while the smaller birds have the courage to remain at the feeder, calmly munching on their snack. The finches and chickadees are always flitting from feeder to branch, the happy go lucky sort, while the woodpeckers seem very serious and focused on their task. (type A personalities...work work, work! )
 I love to take pictures of the birds and I often have a chuckle when I get a good look at their expressions     ( yes, they have expressions). Just the other day for example, I got a shot of a finch, which I swear, looked like it was depressed ( lack of sunlight perhaps) seriously, it's eyes looked so sad I was ready to refer him to a good "psycho" therapist I know...The blue jays are particularly expressive, unfortunately, most of the time they seem very angry....not sure if they don't like getting their picture taken or they don't like the hand that feeds them! Either way, it seems a bit rude...  The finches and chickadees on the other hand, appear happy to let me take pictures, and sometimes, ( no, I am not crazy) they seem to be posing... Well, it has been a long winter!!
Whatever their temperament or motives, I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to watch these delightful creatures who exhibit such fragility and strength. I suppose if they can thrive in spite of the harsh winter, I should be thankful for the inspiration and smiles they bring, quit complaining about the winter, and count my blessings!

Feathered Friends

I marvel at 

such beauty and grace

as you pause, 

 delicately balanced,

on your slender throne,

And I wonder...

if you knew

 just how miraculous you are,

how much we admire

 your fragility and strength,

if you knew

the comfort and simple joy

you bring,

would you be less timid,

  would pride puff your feathers out

 just a little more

my feathered friends?

God bless

PBowman

This time of year can be difficult. The lack of sunlight and challenging weather conditions can take it's toll on our spirits. With this in mind I share this poem to all those who are struggling, and to those who are supporting them. I have come to strongly believe, that along with every shadow in our life, there is always light... sometimes we just need help finding it!

Hope

Sometimes in life

Tremendous trials come,

That bring great sadness and tears,

It seems as if our lives have changed,

Our vision blurred by fears,

Yet, beyond the darkness

There is always light,

That guides and inspires

Helps renew our sight,

And where there is light

There is always love,

And where there is love,

There is hope…

When we seek light 

It will be there,

In smiles and kindness given,

In autumn leaves and gentle breeze,

Earthly angels send from heaven,,

Along with every shadow

There is always light,

And where there is light,

There is always love,

And where there is love

There is hope…

Penny Bowman

It is a new year! 2014 has arrived, and with it, our tendency to make resolutions. Although I find many resolutions are lacking enthusiasm, ( perhaps born from feeling pressured rather than inspired) I do love the idea of seeing the new year as an opportunity for change and growth. Endings by their very nature give rise to new beginnings, and what is more uplifting than the opportunity to start something new!
I find setting personal goals inspiring. The whole process of looking at oneself, being honest, and making a personal commitment to growth, is very admirable. Making a resolution takes honesty, courage, and faith, three excellent qualities we should all nurture on a regular basis.
One of the problems with New Year's resolutions is that they tend to be too vague. I find it very over whelming to think of setting a goal for a year! Yikes! What I learned from my personal experience as a peer leader with the Canadian Cancer Society's Living Well Beyond Cancer program was that goals need to be action oriented and measurable. Each week during the program peer facilitators and participants would set a goal (using guidelines from the program) and then return the next week to share their success with the group. If a goal was not reached we identified the possible barriers and brainstormed solutions. The guidelines for creating a goal was to write down what you were going to do, (an action) how much  or how long you would do it, and when. For example, instead of saying I want to get in better shape ( pretty vague ) you would say I am going to walk 2km in the morning four days a week. We also had participants rate on a ten point scale what they thought their likelihood of success would be. If they did not rate it a seven or more then we suggested they modify it until they felt more confident. One of the biggest lessons learned was to make the goal achievable.  Setting weekly goals that were achievable helped participants to succeed, and each success helped to build the foundation for the next goal and success. No matter big or small, it is empowering to achieve a goal and share that with others!( It also helps to be accountable to someone and have support if there is a problem) I loved the weekly goal setting and found it was a format that worked for everyone.
So... if there is something you want to accomplish and you have not got around to doing anything about it why not try setting a goal this week that you share with someone and see what can happen!

When we honour

the truth inside,

and let courage

take our hand,

faith will be ready

to help us go

where there are no limits...

PB

The Magic of Christmas

The Christmas season is one of my favourite times of the year. As if by magic, we are transformed, and our hearts and souls opened up to shine fully. It is a time when children believe in magic, and the world conspires, if only for a short time, to nurture that childlike quality for young and old alike.
It is the time of year we shed our selfishness and think of others. Individuals, families and communities raise money for those less fortunate as we are driven to ensure that every child and family are able to enjoy Christmas day. Strangers are no longer afraid of one another, but instead, reach out, join forces, and help one another. Friends and families celebrate their faith together, and share in the joy, and hope, and magic.
It is the time of year when families become nostalgic, and long to be together. Children come home, (often with their laundry) siblings reunite, and we remember what family means.
Christmas is a time when old memories are treasured and new ones created. Tradition takes on a new importance and we honor the past and those who helped create it. In my family it would not feel like Christmas if we did not decorate homemade gingerbread, watch White Christmas, and wait for the pajama elf on Christmas eve. At times traditions and memories can be bitter sweet when our hearts ache for those who helped create the traditions but are no longer with us.
 Unfortunately I just had to attend a celebration of life for the mother of a dear friend of mine. Ruth had lived a wonderful life and passed away at the age of ninety four. She was dearly loved by family and friends, one of those rare individuals who exuded amazing grace and kindness that touched all those who had the good fortune to spend time with her. At the celebration, the minister reminded the family to focus on their treasured memories of past Christmas's with Ruth, memories filled with joy and light and love. Ruth's strength is evident in her children and grandchildren so I am confident they will help each other to do just that.
Christmas is a time of miracles. It was born from a miracle and continues to give birth to new miracles every year, for it is a time when our hearts and souls come alive and the best of the human spirit is revealed and shared. My hope is that some day, that same spirit will dominant all year round!
Merry Christmas everyone, may you experience the full joy of Christmas in your heart and soul!
love and light,
Penny

the miracle

resides 

in each one of us,

the

 transformative,

infinite,

 powerful,

light of love...

     

Seeing with our Hearts

Building Connections

Recently the weather has taken a quick turn, and mother nature has given us a forceful reminder that winter is quickly approaching. As I write, it is a very frigid November morning, and with the wind chill, nineteen below! The ground is bearing the burden of a heavy frost, and I am feeling inclined to stay inside where my spirit and toes are warmed by sight and smell of the wood fire's dancing flames.

Since my last blog I have been trying to heed my own advice and spend more time mindfully. Perhaps it was partly due to the quick departure of seasonal temperatures, but I found myself feeling a little lost and disconnected.  After some journaling, meditation and healing work with a gifted friend, I accepted the fact that it was my own doing ( not the weather) and that I could turn things around with a little more effort and focus ( the latter being a challenge for me).  
As a part of my work, I realised that from an early age I had built an invisible  barrier between myself and others to avoid being hurt. Since it had reared it's invisible head, I figured now was the time to begin the healing process if I wanted the rewards of feeling more connected. I was not sure where to begin, for, like many others, this, I knew, was a life long strategy that was supported by a host of mistaken beliefs. In meditation I was told to see through my heart. I was not exactly sure what was being implied, ( other than the obvious) but I was happy to begin my work in such a warm, comfy place.

 I began the journey with love, forgiveness, and faith for I knew I was not alone and would be guided if I only asked. 

To see with my heart, to me, meant being in better touch with my heart. I set to work using my trusty allies, meditation, journaling, and introspection. As well, I paid closer attention to those delicious quiet pauses during the day when we often get our ah ha's. 
Our hearts are so majestic, it was time beautifully spent. I found of course, the more attention I paid to my heart, the more I felt a deeper connection within myself. I realised that this was what I needed to foster first. As I re-connected with my heart, it had the wonderful effect of helping me to feel my daily experiences on a deeper level..

This became very clear ( I love it when I get positive feedback) when I went to see the production of Les Miserables in Toronto this past weekend. I really enjoy live theatre, but I experienced it on a much deeper level than I ever had. I found myself taking a breath and closing my eyes during poignant songs so I could feel the emotion and savour the beautiful music more fully. I was brought to tears a few times, my heart touched deeply, and I felt an appreciation for the performers and the magnitude of work that went into the production. It was an experience I shall always remember and treasure.
 As I was reminiscing while I was writing this blog, I discovered that if I closed my eyes, and yes, took a breath, I could experience the same feelings again.The rewards of taking the time to re- connect with my heart.

I am feeling grateful and inspired by this experience. I realize that my spiritual work will be ongoing, but so will the rewards! I share it in the hopes that it may help others to remember to take time each day to pause, listen, and spend time with this beautiful gift we all share.

The Eyes of Love

to see with our hearts

   is but a soft breath away,
 mindful focus
that can gently bring us  

to exquisite moments

of beauty, peace and joy,

to see with our hearts

 is but a beautiful mirror,
 reflecting
 the kindred pulse of humanity
that magically connects us
 through the divine eyes of love...

PB

If You Go There

If you go There

Connecting

This fall was a wonderful treat. Unusually warm weather combined with autumn's hand print created an amazing environment for us to enjoy the fall kaleidoscope of colors. I say this, and yet I found myself complaining in the midst of this miraculous change because I knew what would soon follow. I know I am not alone in this thinking, come on, admit it... I heard you... Why do we do that? Instead of surrendering to the inevitable, and embracing the beauty that the "now" offers, we often ignore the rainbow and jump right over it, into a pile of mud! Our thinking takes us away from the present moment and we miss the gifts that surround us.

One of the reasons I decided to practice meditation was to learn how to slow down, stop, and become mindful of my thoughts, feelings and surroundings. ( I am much better than I used to be.)  It has been an amazing journey, one that has required a certain amount of patience, confidence and faith. So many people find it difficult at first, but as I discovered, it quickly becomes more natural and brings a wealth of unexpected benefits. Meditation not only helps to let go of mind and body stress, and strengthen mindfulness, it can also be a very powerful pathway for self discovery and healing. 

 It makes sense that taking time to be still and listen allows our hearts and souls an opportunity to communicate with us. To me it is similar to sitting down with a good friend and just listening, with no expectations, or judgements, just an open mind and loving heart. Through this communication we are better able to get to the heart of our problems and begin to heal ourselves. When we connect with our hearts and souls it is easier to understand, forgive, accept, and really love ourselves. We find out who we really are is beautiful. This in turn, helps us to do the same for others. Meditation becomes a catalyst for self discovery, inner peace, joy, mindfulness and healing. 

Much of my writing comes from my connection with spirit. When I step out of the way and allow inspiration to flow through me, I am often surprised (but always pleased) with the results. For those of you who have not tried meditation I encourage you to take the first step. There is a huge assortment of books and Cd's to help you get started, many of them freely available online. If you are one of those people who think they cannot do it, that is your first challenge... to embrace the possibility that if you go there, it will come!

Namaste my friends! Namaste. 

 A Breath Away

Within,

the peace you seek,

the love you desire,

a joy undiscovered,

within,

and only 

a breath away...

PBowman

  

Out of the Darkness

It is September and the days are becoming shorter. I love so many things about the fall, cooler days, the red and orange colours that pop out on the trees, the golden colour of hay bales lined up in the farmers fields. What I don't like is the sun setting earlier putting our day to rest before we are ready. This week I was moaning that fact when I looked out the window and saw the most beautiful shades of pink on the river. The sun was just setting and it was creating a glorious  light show on the water as it quickly descended. I raced down to the river with camera in hand to see if I could capture a moment in time. It was mesmerising to see the pink and purple hues stretching across the river like a blanket  being loving spread over a precious loved one.  My fascination resulted in waiting too long for the shot, but my soul had been nourished and it did not seem as important any more. Even though the darkness came earlier, it brought such beauty and light, I could not help but feel inspired. As I walked away I heard the river whispering something  I had forgotten.

stay open

the cycle of darkness and light

is as it should be

there is a greater purpose

beyond the immediate moment

for out of the darkness

 often comes the most beautiful  light....

Penny B

Time with the River 

You are the One

Today I decided to take time to listen  my own spirit. I went down to the river, lulled by her stillness and the quiet that seemed to envelope me, as well as everything around me. I had a blissful meditation, remembering to just allow myself to focus on my breath to begin, then what I was feeling. The message was clear today.

You are the one

who brings peace,

it is always there

when you take the time

to go within

and enjoy the bliss

that love brings,

do not be afraid to dive deeply

into the depth of your love

 for you will discover an infinite pool

that will cleanse and heal 

any part of you

that is suffering,

such simple remedies await

if you take time,

You are the One

Although I have been meditating and listening to my spirit for quite awhile, it never ceases to amaze me when I connect and become inspired. It is like viewing the same beautiful scene over and over again and still being surprised and overwhelmed each time. Love is like that I suppose.
 It wasn't always so easy. I began my spiritual journey with my physical healing journey, slowly learning how to still my very active mind and body. As I peeled away layers and released mistaken beliefs and emotional pain, it made room for the light and love to enter and work it's magic. I share this so you know you can do the same, if you take the time....You are the One.... 

Penny Bowman

Giving Way

Time with the River

It has been over a week since I have taken the time to be with the river. Time to listen to spirit. I know I need that, so today I honour my spirit and that of the river with my being. I have learned over the years it is essential to feed my spirit if I want to feel connected within, and without. The rewards are always there in the peace and serentiy I feel. Today I ask the river to wash away the tears and emotions that have come to surface this morning, knowing that she will embrace them, and lovingly let them be until they have run their course. As always she speaks to me when I am still ...


hop aboard dear one
ride upon my shoulders,
I shall carry you
with wind and waves
for I yield to you
as I yield to rocks, and shore, and sand
offering no resistance
just allowing myself to give way
free to carry on my way...

Oh to be more like the river, naturally giving way to obstacles with such flexibility, fluidity and grace...
With gratitude once again dear River.

P

This too shall pass...

This Too Shall Pass  



Time with the River

It is a very wet day today. As I write, rain is pouring down, relentlessly assaulting everything in its path. The sky and water are like one, an endless cold, steel grey. This is a day when people's spirits are often down...but not the river's, she remains an optimist and my time with her was well spent once again. This is what she shared with me today.  

My appearance is often deceiving,
though I am grey today,
 and foreboding at times
do not be fooled,
for this belongs to the storm
not my spirit,
I remain at peace
 I watch and listen
as thunderstorms brew over me,
and rain beats down, 
I do not resist
for this I cannot change, 
 so I move along,
 allowing the sky to do the same,
and though I may echo her distress
I remain true to that which I know,
this too shall pass
and soon the sun and moon
will caress me with their light once again...

the river

 As always, when I take the time, the river speaks to my spirit ( often waking her from her slumber). I am reminded that when my sunshine turns grey, and turmoil surrounds me, it is not who I am, it is only temporary, and I need only go within for the peace and beauty that is always there....thank you river!   P