During this season of Thanksgiving and bounty, it seems natural to reflect upon the idea of abundance. Just how can we get everything we want, anyway? Well, it's about gratitude.
Abundance is not necessarily about material things or money but about the relationships in our lives -- especially that unique relationship with ourself. Do you wait until 2 p.m., to ask yourself how you feel that day? How about asking that question first thing in the morning and honoring the answer throughout your day.
Think of a tired, thirsty, lifeless plant. It's existing in a state of scarcity. But give it some water and sunshine, and it totally regenerates. Stands taller, blossoms. It's then able to share its gifts -- the beauty of its flower and fragrance, and the life-giving oxygen it produces.
Care for and nourish yourself in supportive ways that energize and allow you to thrive: get adequate rest, drink plenty of water, eat well, breathe completely and do your yoga.
Receive each breath as a gift, and practice receiving gracefully . . . and gratefully. The more attentively you receive the gift of breath, the more you will start to notice all the other gifts you've been receiving all day long. You'll likely rediscover the powerful truth that your life is abundant and full already.
Sierra Madre Sue--Thanks for bringing this issue to light.
We haven't had block parties on East…Read More Laurel, but we have had Neighborhood Watch and National Night Out parties at my house. I would love to have a block party, but it sounds expensive and complicated in Sierra Madre.
I will make sure that others are aware of this issue. I agree that Sierra Madre is a small town, where you know all your neighbors and watch out for each other. That is what makes it so special.
Thank you Maria. I saw my letter got published in the Mountain Views last Saturday so hopefully if…Read More more people express the same opinion to the City, maybe they'll listen and react!
Sue--You are welcome and thanks for bringing attention to this issue. My friends, Jon and Sarah…Read More live on your block. They have enjoyed the block parties in the past.
Even with students being sent to class with the individual supplies they need, teachers are sorely…Read More lacking basic supplies. Programs that help teachers are wonderful for the educators, schools and parents who are generally called upon to make up the difference.
I guess some of my point is that instead of Staples, BigLots, Target etc. giving supplies and…Read More discounts to teachers - somehow give it to the parents. By giving it to the schools/teachers it perpetuates the idea that it is "our" job to provide these supplies to the kids - and lets parents even more off the hook for taking responsibility for their own families.
I will say though that MANY families in lower income areas set priorities for school and make decisions which teach kids that school and education are important priorities in both time and money. What is sad is that many also make the choice to spend what little funds they have on the latest high end phone, or fashion statement at the cost of being ready for class and learning. If you ask any teacher, we see this every year and now at the end of they year when kids haven't succeeded, they often ask US why their kids didn't do well... you spend money on where your heart is - and it wasn't in school.