The Spirit of Christmas

This year we will be celebrating Christmas very differently than we have in the past, but that doesn't mean it's essence has to be diminished, for even though we cannot be with all the people we love, or carry out all of our treasured traditions, the spirit of Christmas is ageless and enduring. And if there was ever a time we needed to be uplifted by her spirit, it is now.

Christmas has always been a time when we believe in miracles, and revel in the magic it unfolds. It is a time we feel like kids again, as we envelop ourselves in an atmosphere of lightheartedness and excited anticipation. I think the real magic of Christmas is that it wakes up our spirits and the beautiful light of hope, joy, and love that resides within all of us.

Although we may not be able to celebrate Christmas in the way we so desperately desire, we can do our best to stay positive, have faith, and find new ways to give and connect. It has been a stressful year, particularly for front line workers and families who have been directly affected by the virus, so more than ever, we need to be supportive, compassionate and hopeful.

In a year when everyone has sacrificed so much, a perfect gift this Christmas might be to let people know how much we value and appreciate them, especially our health care and front line workers. Imagine how uplifting it might be for them to receive a "thank you" Christmas card expressing how much we appreciate all they have done, all they have sacrificed, and all they continue to do. We could send cards to our health care providers and staff at local hospitals, pharmacies, clinics, and nursing homes. We could also thank our friends and families for their ongoing efforts and sacrifices to keep us all safe.

Celebrating Christmas may take more effort and creativity this year, and we may have to shift our expectations, but the simple truth is, we make Christmas what it is! We make it merry by aligning with the joy and hope and love that is always within us, there in every dream we dream, every kindness we extend, and every joy we create. Who knows, by truly appreciating each other, valuing the opportunities we do have to be together, and fostering hope for healthier, happier times to come, we may make this Christmas the most meaningful one yet.

May you stay well this season, and may you find many ways to be joyful and share that joy with others. 

With Appreciation at Christmas

Thankyou 

for all the sacrifices you make

that seem to go unnoticed 

even though they weigh

on your heart every day,

thank you for being courageous,

and resilient, and strong,

thank you

for caring

even though it appears

that no one cares in return,

but the thing is, we do...

So, from our hearts to yours, thankyou,

may you feel our love 

wrap you in peace,

keep you well,

and inspire moments of joy,

and may you feel the warmth

of our gratitude,

too big for words,

yet, not enough

for all you have done...

Merry Christmas, on behalf of all the tremendously grateful hearts who do think of you every day.

with love,

Penny Bowman

Together we are Awakened, Together we must Act

"Some" of the Parts

For some, the enemy remains invisible,

they do not see the sick and suffering,

know death's name,

or feel the unspeakable grief of families

who cannot seek solace in one another's arms,

For some, the enemy has many faces,

they wake up each day with heavy hearts,

stretch a mask over yesterday's scars

and somehow summon courage and strength

to walk through the fear into the fire...

For all,

life is inconvenient, and challenging,

a strange test of our resilience and humanity,

a nightmare lived each day

in which the voice of reason is muffled
the call to unite not fully unanswered,
a call that would reminds us

stay the course, 

stay strong,
pull together,

for each part of the whole is better

when we act as one...



The difficult times we are living through, as all difficult times, tests our strength, resilience and character. This pandemic has given birth to some of our darkest moments, exposing that which needs to change, and at times, the rather ugly side of humanity.... the greed, self serving practices, hypocrisy, injustices and systemic racism. It has also shone a light on the brighter side of human nature, our kindness, self sacrifice, courage, resilience, creativity, and our willingness to support one another and unite. 
In the midst of this crisis we have all been called to take a good look in the mirror and see ourselves, to examine our humanity, the principles and practices that define us, and most importantly, the way we take care of one another... It is my deepest hope, that we will see this pandemic as an awakening, a call to action,  a time for us to think of the greater good and realize that when each part of the whole is strong and healthy, we are all better for it...
I encourage us all to take a good look at the role we have played in  this pandemic, and examine how we can do better moving forward. Let's put forth our greatest effort to make sure we honor the lives lost. Let's do our part by implementing and supporting changes we now know are crucial, and by moving forward with love and compassion. Our power lies in our unity, together we are awakened, together we must act!


In honour of those we have lost, those we have forgotten, and those who serve every day and who's cries we have not heeded...


Penny Bowman

Every Day

Every Day

There are so many things about this pandemic that are disturbing to me, but what I find most upsetting, and what breaks my heart is that all the people who have died and are ill seem to have been reduced to a daily statistic. The number of people who have fallen, and the circumstances under which they have passed are difficult for most of us to comprehend. I think about them every day, and the families who were not able to be at their side, or join together after their death to grieve their loss. I hope that somehow they can feel the collective sorrow, empathy, and love of the millions of people like myself around the world who care deeply. This poem is a small tribute to their lives, and hopefully a source of comfort to their families knowing that they are held in great love.



Every day I pray
the unimaginable will end,
and those who have lost this battle
will not be forgotten,
that their lives will be more
than just a number
recited daily on the news,
the grim reminder
of our new reality...

I pray the fallen
will always be remembered,
that our collective sorrow,
silent tears
and unspoken condolences
are somehow felt,
that in some way
our broken hearts
pay homage
to lives taken
and the tremendous loss ...

I pray there will be a time
when hearts can mend,
when families
can come together
to mourn their loss,
to grieve the unimaginable,
to share their love,
and find peace and comfort
once again,
in warm embrace...

with love and light,

Penny Bowman

Faith’s Whisper

Faith often begins as a whisper,

The quiet voice inside our head

That brings us comfort,

Tells us to hold on,

To believe…

And as we listen

It becomes stronger,

Nurturing courage and hope,

A knowing that

 All will be well,

We are not alone

If we stay open...

Faith,

Its own miracle,

A precious gift

Waiting inside

Each one of us…

Penny Bowman

Winter's Soft Embrace

Winter's Soft Embrace

Winter lays still

like a soft white blanket 

gently laid

over barren branch

and frozen ground

quietly, magically, transforming

all she touches 

with gentle waves of  peace...

pennyb

The Feelings of Christmas

The Feelings of Christmas



Even though Christmas is celebrated in many different ways by a multitude of diverse cultures all around the world, it unites us in a powerful way we may not even realize. Christmas is a time when we embrace what love is all about, and are inspired to be kinder, more generous and compassionate. It's as if a universal magical spell is cast and we are all compelled to open up our hearts and enjoy the beautiful blessings that come when we share our light. Just like the Grinch, our hearts seem to expand, and we experience more feelings of joy, love, and peace, especially when we take the time to pause and be present in the moment.

Regardless of how or where we celebrate, these intangible blessings are the common thread that weave through every heart, and connect us in powerful ways. The feelings that come when we celebrate Christmas are universal and most likely the reason it is such a very special season. What other time are we blessed with such an abundance of good feelings, feelings of comfort, warmth, family connection, nostalgia, gratitude, hope, and faith; feelings that are in themselves, little gifts.

So this season I hope you pause and take some time to really notice how Christmas changes something inside of you, how the light it shines can bring you the greatest blessing of all, the transformative power of grace.




The Feelings of Christmas

What I treasure at Christmas
is not the gift
but the love it is given with,
not the carol,
but the peace it brings,
not the Christmas tree
but the joy of family gathered around,
for with time I have learned,
the real blessings of Christmas
are never found in things,
the true magic of Christmas
lies in the feelings it brings....

With gratitude for all the beautiful feelings inspired by the season, I wish you abundant joy, love, and peace this Christmas and all year through! Love and light, 

Penny Bowman

The Heart of Christmas

The Heart of Christmas

Everything about Christmas,

worship,

the trees,

gift giving,

the decorations,

family and friends gathering, 

are all just beautiful reflections

of what Christmas is truly about,

for Christmas

is love,

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

Penny Bowman

A New Year... Beyond Fear

I love the beginning of a new year. Like spring, (minus the twenty below weather) it inspires a fresh outlook, an opportunity to set new goals and look forward to new adventures. For me that means spending some time focusing inward to connect with the wisdom, guidance, and beautiful energy of my soul. Cold winter days offer great opportunities to curl up and read an inspirational book, meditate or journal. I usually try to incorporate what I have learned into a daily routine or practice. It is not always easy or smooth sailing, but it is always rewarding.

  Ironically, part of moving forward sometimes means we must look back. We must revisit the places where fears originated, decisions were made, and beliefs created. Having done this recently, I was reminded that many of the best things in my life came about when I did not let fear stop me. So many of the things I was afraid of, leaving home for university, tackling some of my co-op work placements, moving eight hours away from my family, becoming a teacher, and sharing my writing, not only greatly enriched my life, but formed the framework for it. Moving beyond our fears can be very difficult, a little like repeatedly walking through doorways when we are not sure of where they will lead us... it does takes courage, but so often, it is the only way we will accomplish our goals and dreams.

  Part of gaining control over our fears, and walking through those doors, involves recognizing them for what they are...just thoughts, thoughts that can hold us hostage, or thoughts we can overcome and move beyond. I remember when I went through my cancer journey, I was very quickly assaulted with fearful thoughts. Reading about melanoma and it's treatment triggered a lot of fear. I made a decision very early on to focus my thoughts on healing and not the disease. I only read inspiring stories of healing, hope and success. I replaced any fear based thoughts with positive mantras and before long, they were what was popping into my mind. At the time I didn't fully understand that I had made one of the most important decisions of my life, I decided to choose love over fear. Once I did, I was able to find an inner strength, and a beautiful sanctuary that promoted positive thoughts, healing, peace, and miracles. I finally began to fully understand what people meant when they said, we are love!

So the next time you notice fear based thinking, be mindful, take a breath, and resist the urge to give it any power. Know that with some effort you can master your thoughts. Know that there is an inner power just waiting for you to tap into. Choose to walk through fears dark embrace into the light, choose love! If you want some help and inspiration try reading one of Gabrielle Bernstein's books, this blog was inspired by her writing. Happy new year, love and light, my friends.

A new year,

a new day,

a new moment,

our life begins again,and again,

 and again,

 with one mindful breath
we can choose to go
beyond fear and darkness
and discover
  the healing peaceful light
that is our truth....
because
 LOVE
 is who we really are!



With gratitude for the part of me that gently holds my hand, and time and time and time again,
leads me to the light...

 

Christmas Memories Remembering Our Loved Ones

   The Christmas season has sneaked up on us once again, filling our world with the smell of gingerbread, the lure of sparkling lights, the sound of familiar carols, and the joy of giving to others. It is a season that not only ignites our humanity, but some of our fondest memories as well.

    Like many people, some of my favorite childhood memories are of Christmas. Once a year, our home was transformed into a magical place where wishes and miracles seemed possible. My mom was our magician, and seemed to really love Christmas. I say that with some uncertainty because it is hard to imagine enjoying all the work that must have gone into making Christmas special for four children, especially with a tight budget, and no little elves to help, but if my mom didn't love it, we never knew, for that was the one time of the year spirits ran high and we knew we would be spoiled. We merrily indulged in special treats, watched White Christmas together, (which included our own academy award worthy performances of  "Sisters") and embarked on the annual pilgrimage to find a tree that mom would approve of. Our house was always over decorated with lights, garland, tinsel, and my personal favorite, the words "Merry Christmas" written on the living room mirror with bright red lipstick, my mom's signature, (pardon the pun) festive flourish. Christmas Eve, mom's creativity gave way to a special family tradition that her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren still enjoy and look forward to every year.

    My mom passed away many years ago, and I miss her dearly, especially at Christmas. She is with me though, through the traditions I have carried on, the over decorating, the required viewing of White Christmas, spoiling my kids, but most importantly, through my love of Christmas. That was one of the greatest gifts she ever gave, and one, I suppose, she never even realized she had given. I will always be so very grateful to her for everything she did to make Christmas special, for the precious memories we made, as well as memories made new because of her. She has left an enduring gift of her heart, and it is comforting to feel her presence during this festive time of  year.

    Having lost my mom and as well as many other people very dear to me, I know first hand how very difficult this time of year can be when we are missing a loved one. Our traditions are tied to those we shared them with, and their absence leaves an indescribable void. Even though it has been many years, I still feel a little sadness when I think of my mom, but as time passes the memories bring more smiles and gratitude than sadness. Through my own grieving I have learned that it's important to honor our feelings, and grief's unique path for each one of us. I have also learned to cherish my old memories and traditions, while remaining open to creating new ones. Time does seem to have a magical way of healing.

   To those of you who have experienced a loss recently or in the past, and are having difficulty during the season, my heart goes out to you. I wish you comfort, faith and strength. I hope you own the beautiful light that always shines within, and it becomes stronger than any darkness. I also hope, that with time, your life, and the Christmases to come, are sprinkled more and more, with the peace, light joy and love you once shared.

   Wishing everyone love, joy and good health for Christmas and in the New Year to come.

Missing You

How I miss you,

how bittersweet the memories 

 safely tucked inside my heart,

memories that bring a smile

   often tinged with sadness,

but more, and more
sprinkled ever so sweetly
with gratitude and joy,

for when I remember
 I can't help but feel blessed 

   for the time we shared,

 and the precious gift of love,

  wrapped

 inside my heart

forever 

Dedicated with love and gratitude to my mother, for creating such wonderful Christmas memories, and sharing the true spirit and magic of Christmas.

Building Bridges ...Having Compassion for one Another

  Although the American election is long over, it has left in it's wake waves of fear, anger, shock and uncertainty. Mr. Trump's outrageous views and behaviour appear to have given validation to those who see themselves as superior in some way, and has helped to embolden them to express their prejudices and hatred in very shocking and unacceptable ways. Like so many people I am tired of hearing about such negativity, and since we cannot change what has happened we must move on and discover the lessons to be learned so we can achieve the changes we so deeply desire and deserve.

  As a female in a same sex relationship I have compassion for those who are marginalized, and appalled and disheartened by the sexist, racial, homophobic prejudice that is present not only in the United States, but here at home in Canada. This will never shift if we remain silent for fear of being criticized or worse, retaliated against. We must speak our truth, share our beliefs, and help each other to be heard, respected, and treated with fairness and dignity. I understand that people may have different beliefs, and I accept mine are not shared by everyone, but it is time that we insist that although we may disagree on important issues, and have strongly opposing views, we are all equal, and have the right to be heard and express ourselves in an environment of mutual respect.

 At the heart of this issue is the need for us to start to value one another as human beings. No one person is more important than another, no one person has the right to bully, spew hatred, disregard, or harm another person because of their beliefs. We are not born with a set of beliefs, they are learned through our experiences and education, and therefore, they can be changed. We need to start to try to understand and accept one another, despite conflicting beliefs.

 Home of the brave? Brave people do not bully, or resort to name calling or violence just because someone is different. Truly courageous people fight for freedom and justice, they heroically step outside their comfort zones and open their hearts to opposing views, people and lifestyles. So many people are afraid of those who are different. So often it is fear and ignorance that feed prejudice. We need to learn about one another so we can develop compassion, for it is compassion that can create a powerful bridge between those who are blinded by each others differences.

  How do we bring about these changes when so many people are entrenched in their beliefs, and so many others feel defeated and powerless? We change that belief first, we are not powerless...we can change, we are powerful! Collectively we need to step out of the shadow fear casts over us, join together, and begin to talk to each other about our beliefs, our fears, our dreams and our experiences. Listening to one another helps us all learn. Change, real change that occurs within, comes about when we are open to changing our beliefs. We need to enlighten ourselves and one another in open, tolerant, and loving exchanges.

  It does not matter where you fit on this spectrum, whether you are one of the marginalized, one of the bullies or someone who distances themselves from getting involved, we all suffer because of it, and we will all benefit when it is healed. We must begin by changing our mindsets. We must have faith and a vision that we can create a world that is tolerant, loving, and kind. We must be part of the change in our own lives, one blog, one conversation, one small step at a time. We can do it!

If we could see into each others hearts

what is it we would see,

innocence and passion,

what stories would there be...

Would we see the walls

 that mask our fears,

resignation and indifference

born from too many tears,

would we learn compassion,

would we understand,

would we see ourselves

in our fellow man...

pbowman

Love lives here

This past weekend my partner and I had the pleasure of visiting friends to celebrate a special birthday. These friends own and operate a Gallery (which is a part of their home) near the small town of Magnetawan, in northern Ontario. The gallery, Windows to the North, showcases their own work as well as many other very talented local female artists, and is a beautiful gem poetically tucked away on the shores of Poverty Bay. It is a place that not only brings together artists, dreamers, friends, the LGBT community and the open minded, but perhaps more importantly, a place that nurtures their development.  

 Before the party, we were asked to write a few words that we associated with the birthday girl. The words came easily, for whenever I think of Sue and the oasis she has created with her partner Kay, I feel inspired. Their warm hospitality, combined with the beauty of the natural surroundings and lovely works of art creates a tranquil atmosphere that never fails to soothe my soul.
The party, in case you were wondering, was a great success, at least by my standards, for the house was filled with a diverse, supportive group of men and woman and the genuine warmth of friendship, love, acceptance, and community. Not a surprise then, that these are the words that came to mind when I thought of these wonderful ladies and the sanctuary they have created. 

Love Lives Here

In creative grace,

in warm embrace,

in open doors,

Love lives here...

In rainbow hues,

in tolerant views,

in open minds,

love lives here...

Amidst the tears,

despite any fears,

in open hearts,

love lives here...

In community

in possibility,

in weathered faith,

love lives here...

with a grateful heart,
 for the gift of friendship,

pbowman 

www.windowstothenorth.com 

Finding Joy

For those of us who were unable to escape winter's stubborn grip, it was a tough go this year, one that seemed to stretch way beyond our ability to tolerate the lack of sunshine, inner reflection and isolation that winter often brings. It's finally spring, and even though the weather hasn't fully caught on, I feel it's time we try to reclaim control, shed the winter blues, and begin creating more joy in our lives. Are you with me?

If you are with me, you may be wondering, exactly how do we do this... Glad you asked, I just happen to be blogging about it! I think we begin by deciding to feel better and assume greater responsibility for our happiness. We'll have to be firm, the ego, naughty girl, wants control and will most likely try to discourage us... A positive affirmation, such as I am creating more joy in my life, will be a great start. If you really want to tick off your ego, you can write the affirmation down, shout it from the rooftop, or just feel smug you have taken the first step to feeling happier! Congratulations!

OK, now that you have a new focus, and perhaps some neighbors are staring at you because you chose to yell it from the rooftop... (it was just a suggestion ) it's time to identify what makes you happy. A seemingly innocent question, but really, are you aware of what brings you joy? What puts a smile on your lips, makes your heart sing, or gets you feeling blissful? Take a moment to really think about it, and recall a few occasions when you felt really happy... and this time, maybe just write it down instead of getting on the roof. So, what came to mind? What brings you joy? Is it listening to music, a walk in nature, watching a great comedy, or being artistic? I love all of those, but one of my favourite ways to feel joy is to ride my bike, because it makes me feel like a kid again... (what brought you joy as a kid?)

Whatever it is that brings you joy, acknowledge it, be grateful, and start planning how you can get more of it in your life, starting today. Every morning make it part of your routine to ask yourself, how can I bring myself joy today? Chances are, if you make it a daily ritual, before too long, there will be all kinds of joy lining up waiting for the opportunity to let loose. Most likely, the things on your list will be simple, like a walk in the park, or gardening, or being with your grandchildren. The list will be unique for each one of us, but the benefits will be the same...our days will perk up with little bursts of light, we will begin to feel more optimistic, and our thoughts will be happier. Our positive energy and optimism will in turn affect those around us, joy expressed soon becomes joy multiplied...what feels better than that?

I realize that this exercise may be harder for some than for others, but the important thing is to recognize we all deserve to be happy, and how simple and beneficial it is to sprinkle some joy throughout our day. Joy decreases the effects of stress, and is a great source of motivation and inspiration. Joy is an integral part of who we all are, but it is up to us to get her to come out and play. She is there, beyond the blahs, beyond the tears, and fears, and daily stress. She is waiting in the wings and she will come alive when we nurture her. So do yourself a favor and get her to come out and play!

Joy

joy lives

 in a sacred space

  beyond reason and fear

in the playful light of our soul,

joy sings
in blissful harmony

when we break free

and dance to our own unique rhythm,

joy calls

from the sunflowers smile,

the meditative breath,

 from the laughter of a child...

joy multiplies

when we call her forth

give thanks for her spirit

and embrace she is ours...

Joy can always be found,
in light,
in love,
in hope...


pbowman