Monday, September 12, 2011

Ego-Stroke

Instead of stroking the ego, shouldn’t we smack it?

When we ego-stroke, the actions are usually of no benefit to anyone but self, and usually at the expense of reality. Is this really what needs to be done in order to develop confidence? Do we not know self worth without expansion of ego?

I believe the opposite to be true. Without need of egotism to maintain self-assurance, I believe we then have the potential to radiate beautifully. Then, and only then, can we shine and admire the shine of others. There is no need to diminish the light of another for yours to be seen. And if you disagree, well – I think you need to check your ego.

Ego lies and paints exquisitely over truth. The paint eventually cracks though, exposing the lies ego tried to disguise as reality. Why bother? Can you really feel good by creating false perceptions? Regardless of the portrait you present, you know how ‘ugly’ the picture is even if others do not. And this truth will rot in your core until you smack ego and become honest. Be true to you.

Yes, ego is a troublemaker. Aside from creating false realities, ego has a way of making us act with ill intent. You know what I’m talking about. Think of how many times ego urged you to say hateful things to intentionally hurt another. How many times has ego encouraged you to act in spite, or to use manipulation to make you seem to have the upper hand? Trust me…that kind of ball will certainly deflate in your court.

Test yourself. Think before you act. Think before you react. What is your intention? Is it good, or just a maneuver to save face, or boost your ego? Is the action or reaction honest? Is it really what you want to say, or do? Consider yourself, while still considering others. We are connected.

Heart-Stroke. Ego-Smack. It will make you a better person.

Friday, September 9, 2011

When the Lights Went Out

San Diego paused yesterday. The whole county lost power from around 3:45 pm, to 10:50 pm. Yes, we were without electricity for seven hours, and it was over 90 degrees. Initially, some people worried, not only because of the length of time, but because the power outage was so widespread. Grocery stores and restaurants closed, you couldn’t utilize ATM machines, some people were stuck in elevators, traffic was a cluster of hot and irritable motorist, and others were running out of gas – left and right.

As chaotic as it was for some, others, like myself, enjoyed the forced action of socializing. People were outside talking to neighbors, and kids were actually playing outdoors.

For many, dinner became an issue. We had to be creative. I had chicken, but couldn’t use the stove. My friend had a grill, but didn’t have any food. Solution: my friend brought over the grill and we ate barbeque chicken. It’s was great! My neighbors even came out with their own food for the grill, and everyone offered to share what they had – food, drinks, candles, etc. Even more, the darkness of the city exposed beautiful stars. It was a beautiful night, filled with love and laughter.

Interesting how communal the city became when the lights went out. It could have been such an inconvenience, and for some I’m sure it was, but for many it was a much needed dose of community!

Saturday, September 3, 2011

Healing Self...

If you believe, as I do, that we are made of energy, surrounded by energy, and all things are energetic – it is then feasible that we can utilize energy to heal ourselves; body, mind, and spirit.

In my quest to heal myself, I became a certified Reiki Practitioner (RP), and incorporated daily meditation into my life. Not only have I noticed change and growth within myself, I have also become more aware of all that surrounds me. Even more, I’ve become conscious of the energy I put out into the universe, and the energy that invades my space. We affect everything, and with that comes great responsibility.

One of the most significant challenges I’ve been faced with is recognizing and attempting to let go of my ego. Ego seems to be in constant conflict with the heart, with truth, and with the higher self. With this, I have found it essential to think about the ‘why’ and reasoning behind my actions; to be honest about the consequences of my actions; and ultimately act in kindness, always. This practice has helped me check my ego on several occasions.

Another tool I’ve used in my healing practice is to recite the mantra, ‘Just for today…’ which is the first line of the Reiki Principals (…I will not be angry. I will not worry. I will be grateful. I will do my work honestly. I will be kind to myself, and all living things.). That phrase alone has helped me to be present. It can be challenging not to think about tomorrow, to let go of yesterday, or to maintain balance of emotions. Being present helps create awareness and helps reduce unnecessary stressors that we place on ourselves.

Then of course, there is importance in balancing oneself: balance of mind, body, and spirit. As I mentioned above, I practice Reiki and meditation, daily, in order to heal. This includes balancing flow of energy, opening and aligning chakras, elongating moments of inner-peace, and grounding.

Healing yourself is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Take time everyday to connect with body, mind, and spirit. Find harmony in balance.

Namaste!