Yes, I have copied and spliced into my journals excerpts from various on-line sources, mainly DailyOM and tut.com And yes, I blog primarily at myspace and often transfer what I've posted there to (e:strip). I got an email from (e:strip) new year's day inviting me to journal here after signing up early last year. I had forgotten all about it and when I went to my journal there was but one brief post with a comment from (e:theecarey) whom I've come to befriend thanks to this site.

Please understand that what I post is with nothing but the best of intentions. I am an extremely passionate individual with wisdom that I so love to share with the world. If I in any way, shape or form offend or annoy anyone that's their business, for it is not in accord with my purpose. There's a saying I really like that serves to keep me navigating sometimes controversial waters of self-realization and actualization, "If you want inner peace you say 'Om!' and if you want outer peace you say 'Fuck Om!'"

One Love
Sean

Join us this Thursday Jan 18th 2007 at 6:00 pm (pdt) 9:00 pm (edt)
        
         
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Greetings Everyone!

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What a glorious winter morning scene! The ice clings to tree limbs with a fresh powdery coating of the white stuff, though not nearly enough to require our plowing services. I tried with little success to scrape the half-inch thick layer of ice off the side view mirrors in the work truck. I noticed myself getting irritated, or angry, which is of course preceded by a feeling of powerlessness. Guess I got some "work" to do yet on the path of peace and harmony. I allowed something outside of me to bring me down below the line, but at least I didn't take a picnic basket with me. I noticed it, gave thanks and returned above the line in a matter of seconds. Like I said, it takes practice and no matter how good I get there's always room for improvement.

As if the line at the post office wasn't sufficient to arouse some anger. Rather, I felt peace and joy standing there patiently with a smile on my face eager to send off my application to reserve a shelter at Letchworth State Park wherein I will host a 35th birthday celebration next October. It might sound like overkill in the planning department, but I am actually behind schedule as I missed the cut-off to participate in a lottery drawing for booking facilities at the park in 2007. When I called and spoke with a rep she informed me of this fact so I asked her if I had any chance of getting a confirmation in October, which falls outside the peak season between Memorial Day and Labor Day. She said that my chances were good and so we shall find out hopefully in the very near future. Intuition is telling me to be prepared for spontaneous events during this year of profound transition, so the least I can do is plan a few things in advance. I inquired of the postal clerk how I might go about renewing my passport, which doesn't expire until 2008. She handed me a form and explained the process. I am prepared.

I'm not quite sure how to go about the day ahead. I'm considering meeting up for lunch with a dear friend who lost her aunt to a stroke over the weekend. I also have in mind perhaps going to a movie with my friend Beth cashing in on a free voucher compliments of my bank. I have tentative plans to meet up with this chick I met here on myspace for dinner. Then there's this call on the "six fatal mistakes to avoid in travel writing/ photography" at 8 PM this evening. I haven't even called Andrea yet to make a date. This weekend I have plans to meet up with friends in Rochester for dinner at an authentic Ethoipian restaurant Friday night and I think my cousins are hosting a house warming party. My brother will be in town Saturday evening. No kidding, life is full even though I continue in the luxury of leisure time, thanks in part to a most abnormal winter weather pattern. I have so much to be grateful for and the blessings of this life are many. Carpe diem!

One Love
Sean



Anger, SEAN, is a fabulous reminder that there are still a few things being misunderstood.

In all cases.
The Universe

A sheet of ice obscures the view out my front window facing east into the advancing storm front. The rain is forecast to changeover to snow later in the day and overnight, but they said the same about last night. I dropped off my Honda last night at the collision shop to finally repair the damage from the October Surprise Storm. I couldn't find the key drop so I returned this morning to deliver the keys in person, which turns out worked in my favor as the shop manager failed to recall details of the work order. I reminded him of the location of the damage and the price range he estimated, which seemed to jar his memory. So now I'm without my white stallion for the next few days, although not without wheels as I had my co-worker Ken drive me over to the nursery to acquire a work truck for the interim. It's a nice job perk for which I offer gratitude. I flipped Ken a fiver for gas and offered him a heaping plate of leftover eggplant parm to which he happily accepted. It's always nice to tithe to keep the balance in the favor department. It not only serves to favor the other party, but also has a way of returning the favor to its origin via the law of abundance.

Dinner at Tara's last night was a splendid treat. Not only was the main entree, eggplant parm, a personal favorite of mine, but the company was especially delightful. My friends Sarah and Gabe with their cherubic daughter Navah Rain joined us for the feast, along with this other kat Chris who is quite the jovial fellow. Tara certainly knows how to throw a dinner party and set a table with exquisite attention to detail, an artistic masterpiece. Her home is an equally ornate expression including elements from Nepal, west Africa, Latin America, both the Near East and Far East. What is most striking about her residence is the vibe, which is warm and tranquil, a pleasant compliment to the visually stimulating decor. I had such a wonderful time that I've been inspired to host my own dinner party in the very near future, perhaps with an oriental theme seated on the floor dining on a tangy stir fry. I really do enjoy entertaining guests and it's on the agenda for 2007.

Before meeting up at Tara's for an evening's repast, I dropped by Shanghai Red's on the waterfront to investigate a reality show seeking candidates for a Buffalo-based show Find Love TV. My mother mentioned it to me at the hospital and later my friend Lydia called me saying that I'd be perfect for it. So I followed this guidance with some resistance only to discover that there was a better than 2 hour wait for interviews. This kat Addison, a rep for A&E, snapped a Polaroid of me and directed me to fill out a brief questionnaire. As I was doing so I was making wise cracks asking if Simon was present to hear me audition Peter Cetera hit for American Idol. One of the questions asked, "What is your idea of the perfect date?" I turned to a couple of the ladies seated in the room asking for help on this one. One of them responded, "Beer and pizza," and I was like, "So what are you doing later?"

This kat seated across from me wasn't offering any help referring to me as the "competition." I mentioned myspace and he immediately went on the offensive critcizing me for having a profile on the controversial website at my age. I responded that the target demographic is ages 18-34 and that people use the site for many purposes. He wasn't hearing any of it commenting how his teenage students think it "creepy" for anyone over age 25 to have a myspace profile and implied that I must be a child molester. We're all entitled to our opinions, although the weaker-minded among us are easily influenced by others. I chuckled and noticed this attractive blonde to my left was getting a kick out of the exchange. So I ended up writing in for my idea of a perfect date "dinner at Fiamma Steak," the owner of which was seated next to me whom I recognized from a feature in Spree magazine. However, what I said out loud differed considerably, "Puts out on the first date." The blonde placed her hand over her mouth trying to hide her hysteria.

I handed Addison my completed form with the paparazzi photo stapled to it and sauntered over to the bar area looking to catch a glimpse of the score in the Patriots/ Chargers game. I sat on a cozy chair by a faux fireplace scanning the room and gazing out into the idle harbor where sailboats dominate the scene in the summer months. I felt the urge to get out and explore making my way for the exit. I strolled along the historic canal slip and paused along the water's edge with a stiff breeze coming off the lake chilling me to the bone. Yet it was quite mild by January standards and I noticed a rollerblader glide by as I was pondering a vision for the future of the highly debated and underutilized lake shore and riverfront. I like the idea of an eco-recreational commercial state-of-the-art "new town" district emerging, while the existing downtown becomes known as "old town" featuring 19th century buildings converted to residential urban loft style and municipal purposes for political and civic services. I'm a fan of privatizing and regionalizing government as well. I say run government like a business and allow basic market dynamics of supply and demand to dictate it's evolution. The days of tax payers picking up the tab for limo rides and big government are numbered.

I returned to the fancy interior of the waterfront's self-dubbed "jewel" for a minute before heading out to grab a mocha latte at Spot Coffee. I debated on whether or not to return to the restaurant, which I did as I had time before dinner. Addison informed me that there was still an hour's wait and directed me back to the bar, obviously doing his part to generate business for the establishment so kindly hosting the operation. I strolled into the bar, did an about-face and bounced. It wasn't until after 7 pm that I got a phone call from a Kevin asking if I was still in the restaurant and would like to be interviewed. I explained that I had dinner plans and would not be available, although I inquired if they'd be hosting a second round of interviews. He said that they may and would keep my name and number on record. So if it's really meant-to-be I'll get another shot at it. I'm really not attached either way. I'm sure it would be fun, or should I say, I'm sure I'd make it fun.

As fate would have it I got a phone call from my cousin Joni during dinner. I returned her call when I got home and listened as she described a rather peculiar incidence. Turns out the blonde who was finding me quite entertaining at the reality show gig recognized me from a picture taken at a New Year's Eve party. Joni's friend Michelle had in mind a fix up b/w her friend Andrea and I having invited her to the party with that intention in mind. However, she never made it to the party that evening so Michelle instead provided her evidence of my presence in the form of a picture. Apparently she liked what she saw, not to mention the impression I made at the interviews. She called Michelle explaining that she thinks she met "Sean Kennedy" and wanted to get her phone number to me via my cousin. Joni said something about co-hosting with Michelle a mojito party next month and inviting Andrea, but when Michelle suggested this to her she replied, "I have to wait until next month to meet him?" Wow. I feel like a celebrity, or perhaps getting a glimpse of what it might feel like anyway. So I took down her number joking with Joni that perhaps I'll invite her out to their chalet in Colden for a soak in the hot tub. Joni was like, "Hey anything we can do to help!" She's such a sweetheart.

So the potential is there for some "action", however my astrologer has advised me against engaging in casual sex, something to do with Saturn and Venus in my 8th house, I dunno? Here I was thinking maybe I should try casual sex with my astrologer? But seriously, I've no clue what to make of this most recent love interest. The good news is that her name is not Jen. I had met two blondes by the name of Jen in the last several weeks so I must finally be over her, thank God. How did I get so stuck on that anyway? I didn't trust my initial instincts and it lead to some smackdown in the heart chakra. But hey, live and learn as the say. I got options in all areas of my life. The main thing is to stay the course with my devotion to effortless living from here on out. If something doesn't bring me peace and joy either I need to change my perception of it or remove myself from the circumstance. Truly practice of the former will lead to the latter by virtue of The Secret. That's the rub!

One LOve
Sean

It's no accident, SEAN, that when you look closely into the eyes of another, the very first thing you see, is yourself.

That when you hold their hand, you can feel your own warmth.

And that when you give of yourself, you give to yourself.

Because, quite simply, both you, and they, are me.
Let's get it started, un-huh -
The Universe

"The coming months are to be a bit of a crazy time, when one moment you will seem to reach new heights, and in the next one you will be brought back down to Earth. Whatever happens always keep your eye on the greater goal, and know that this way you cannot be deterred or deflected from your path.

You will feel day-to-day changes, but overall you will be moving up into the higher vibrations. Everything is changing, and look to your younger generations for the wisdom and love they have brought with them. They are also here for a special purpose, and they will come into their own as the months roll by and people will understand that many are extremely evolved souls. Already you have become aware of some who have started their mission, and they will help immensely when the time comes to change the world.

You just do not realize the number of masters who are already with you, and they do not advertise their presence but get on with their work with unparalleled dedication. Heaven has not allowed matters to completely take their own course, and freewill is tempered by the need to ensure that the path ahead is clearly defined, and lit up so that you may find your way.

If you could but see the marvelous interplay of energies that are upon Earth and also reaching it from the higher dimensions, you would be greatly uplifted. Large pockets of light continue to grow exponentially, and a glorious show of many colors permeates the darkest of regions."

- St. Germain 03-January-2007

According to myspace statistics I've had 4,856 visits to my blog in just over three years, with perhaps a third of those visits coming in the last several months as a result of my devotion here. It's effortless for me because I love writing, especially on the subject of Sean. It was actually my 3 year myspace anniversary as of January 12th, hip-hip hooray! So barring a shutdown of myspace I should surpass the 5,000 visit mark sometime this week. I want to thank each and everyone of you who have tuned in over the years, especially my 13 loyal readers, the first of whom subscribed back in late 2005. Nyaweh!

I brought my mother a grande cup of organic green tea to the hospital this morning. She really enjoyed it yesterday so I thought I'd treat her to another serving, not only of tea but also the presence of her eldest child. She appeared noticeably better. It was obvious she was anxious to be discharged from the room and sent home as she sat on the edge of the bed with the fluid dispenser on casters switched to the opposite side where it had been yesterday. She told me that she took to heart what I had shared with her yesterday, which was simply that she needs to put herself first in her life and take better care of herself. She explained that she's been getting that message from God over the years and so hearing it from me has perhaps empowered her to act upon it. I also pointed out that if going to school for her nursing degree is taking a toll on her health that it's better to quit than continue. I went on to say that if your studies do not bring you peace and joy then give it up. She is no less or more a person with or without that degree. If, however, she can make the mental switch in her mind and find the peace and joy in the process, then by all means carry on. And she knows it as she admitted, "What good am I in service to others if I'm not taking care of myself first?"

The water for the tea was tepid at best so I sought out a nurse to direct me to a microwave for a zap to bring it up to temp. I was delighted that the first one I encountered as I stepped out of the room was a sexy little brunette heading down the hallway toward me. She cordially lead me to a small kitchenette with a microwave too small for the large cups. I had to be innovative so I grabbed a small styrofoam cup from the cabinet and proceeded to heat a portion of the water before returning its contents to the original container. Upon returning to the room I sat down as my mother commented on the article she'd been reading in a magazine. It was describing how we're all connected, that we're actually "wired" together providing examples of how a smile or tears affect others. Some of us are more connected, or empathic than others, but it's just another example of science supporting spiritual principles. Science and spirituality is a sign of the times and a native prophecy fulfilled.

The fact (not the theory) that we are all connected is what inspires me to continue my own personal evolution as I raise my vibration progressively through the practice of unconditional love. I know that as I grow in peace, joy, prosperity and gratitude that I can empower others to evolve in kind. In so doing I serve to fulfill my mission which is peace and harmony in the world. I felt myself doing just that yesterday morning when I met with a friend who's been having difficulties of late at her job and domestic life. In a way she's like a client of mine, but rather than charge her for my services I am rather paying it forward so to speak. I understand the principle of karma to be simply what goes around comes around. In a sense, I am really giving to myself when I reach out to uplift another with my wisdom. And the gifts were immediately tangible as I noticed my vibration escalate during our brief meeting at a downtown cafe. The more I can do my part to "fire the grid" with acts of self-love the greater the effect on the whole. We are in times of rapid transition toward multidimensionality. I feel so blessed to be here.

I've got some really good information and tools that I've gathered over the years. And its not like I've mastered it by any means. Reaching out and connecting with others serves to advance my own personal application of the life-changing principles and concepts. It's like anything else, the more you practice the better you get. I remember when I tried out for a lacrosse team in college years ago and I really stunk at first. I had virtually no experience in the sport and it showed. I began training a month before tryouts so I did have an edge in my fitness levels. But it wasn't until perhaps halfway through the season (I "made" the team because there weren't any cuts as it was a new program) that my skills had improved dramatically. By the end of the season I was voted most improved player. And while it required a tremendous amount of work and focus it was rather effortless. Why? Because I absolutely loved playing. If you want an effortless life do what you love. If you're stuck in something you loathe begin by giving thanks and start focusing on where you'd like to go. Before you know it, everything you do will be effortless!

There's a winter storm warning for tonight into tomorrow which means we are on alert for snowplowing. Right now the rain has changed to snow so it is quite likely I'll be working overnight. I don't mind snowplowing, but I do loathe the hours as I'd much rather be sleeping. My intention is to have another source(s) of income by next winter season enabling me to retire from snowplowing. I am thinking that travel writing would be a wonderful opportunity. In the meantime, I'll do my job in the spirit of gratitude and excellence. In such a way I tweak my vibration to put me in resonance with that which I seek to manifest in the material realm. I'm looking forward to a homemade eggplant parmesan dinner tonight gathered with friends. I am so blessed to have such beautiful souls in my life. Truly, my life is incredible!

One Love
Sean

January 14, 2007
Keeping in Contact
Libra Daily Horoscope

Today, a lively mood can give you the extra energy you need to both fulfill your outer-world obligations and to spend time nourishing your relationships. Because you likely are in high spirits, you may be on the lookout for opportunities to gather the important people around you for an afternoon or evening of entertainment, conversation, and companionship. If no such opportunity presents itself, consider hosting a casual get-together or a larger party. You may find that your loved ones and associates respond enthusiastically to your invitation and are eager to visit with you in your home. Your shared experiences will likely bring you closer together today, providing you with a potent measure of intellectual and emotional connectivity.

The strength of our individual networks of support and companionship is built upon our willingness to reach out to those who are most important to us in both times of trouble and times of peace. When we take the initiative where our relationships are concerned, surrounding ourselves with family and friends whenever feasible, we make certain that the interpersonal connections we have established through trust, camaraderie, and sharing remain solid. The time we spend enjoying the company of the important people in our lives is not only pleasing to us, but also emotionally nourishing. New bonds are created each time we have communal experiences because we are reinforcing the roles we play in each others' lives. As you entertain friends and family today, you will sense that the ties that bind you are growing increasingly resilient.

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January 10th and we've plowed but once since the official beginning of this winter season; the infamous "surprise" storm of October notwithstanding. Lake effect snow showers continue to blast off Lake Ontario thanks to arctic winds out of the northwest; however it does not appear to be organized enough for significant accumulation. I remained awake last night keeping vigil as periodic whiteouts visited the region outside, yet it never did sustain. South of the city they got over a foot of the white stuff in ski country where it is being accepted with open arms. Here in the northtowns we remain relatively unscathed by winter's seasonal scorn. And what a blessing its been.

I did end up making it out last night to the Buffalo Entrepreneur Meetup where about 15-16 people had gathered to network, view The Secret and open up for discussion following the film. I was feeling high on gratitude once again throughout the film continuing on into the talking circle upon completion as many of us shared our interpretations and insights on the empowering principles offered therein. What is the "secret"? It is the law of attraction which basically states that we are the cause and everything in our lives is the effect, or we attract it. And like the law of gravity, whether or not you believe in it does not matter, it still applies. If you fall off a building you're going to hit the ground. If you think about something long enough and with enough passion (emotion) you will manifest in the material realm, whether it be conscious or unconscious. This truth can often be at first met with resistance to newcomers on the path of awakening, but really it is the most empowering principle one can adopt. For no matter our current reality, we have within us the capacity to transform it into something more desireable.

On the drive home I was still pumped up but coming down ready for bed. I noticed several car accidents from icy roads and gave thanks that I arrived home safely, as I always do. I addressed an email I had received earlier in the day from a place of love. I had attracted this person and their reaction to my blog so I accepted responsibility. It wasn't a matter of concession out of fear for the individual had little if any legal grounds to pursue the matter. Rather, it was an exercise in the art of letting go, thus you may have noticed I've removed the "2006 Year of Letting Go" post. And I really do need to just let it go once and for all.

One Love
Sean

Just because you can have it all, SEAN, doesn't mean there's something wrong with you until you do.

To the contrary, the simple fact that you stand before such infinite possibilities, irrefutably means that you are one bad mamma jamma.

That's a good thing.
Tallyho,
The Universe

January 10, 2007
Diffusing Conflict with Love
Libra Daily Horoscope

You may feel edgy today, and unsure about how others will react to your opinions, ideas, or choices. A restless mood can furthermore make interacting with individuals in your home and workplace difficult, as you may respond defensively to critical comments that were likely not meant to offend. Though your ultimate goal may be to avoid conflict, aggression caused by misunderstandings may nonetheless play a role in your day. You can minimize the effect they have on your outlook by responding with copious amounts of love to the negative vibrations that are projected by others. You will likely discover that people cannot maintain their hostile attitudes today when confronted with your generous gifts of compassion and kindness.

When we choose to love rather than react to those who are aggressive, we can easily diffuse conflict because we, in essence, refuse to add any fuel to the aura of antagonism that already has been established. It takes two individuals to hold an argument, and two individuals to keep tension alive. By positioning ourselves apart from anger, and treating those who are angry with compassion, we can effectively quench the flames of hostility. We can better understand the positions held by those in opposition to us because we are willing to examine their thoughts and feelings without posing judgment. Others, seeing our openness to compromise, are then vastly more likely to entertain our own notions of right and wrong. Your feelings of anxiety will disappear today when you approach interpersonal conflict from a strong foundation of love and willing cooperation.

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Mater Creatoris
Category: Travel and Places

It was just one of many latin phrases scribed throughout the ornately decorated Basilica that I had no clue as to the translation. Even with my scientific background in latin nomenclature I was at a loss. However, the utterly glorious display of paintings and sculptures throughout the sanctuary captured and held my interest as I sat in the pew contemplating. I was turned on to this magnificent holy place a few months ago when I met a couple friends out for dinner who wanted to visit on the way to the restaurant. It had such a pacifying effect that I'll never forget. Indeed, the estimated 1500-2500 angels scattered about in artistic display soothe the spirit no matter the state of mind. I enjoyed about a 1/2 hour visit on this trip as several people lingered, some touring the stations of the cross where Jesus made a most legendary journey from the garden of Gesthsemane to crucifixion. It is a tale that has inspired controversy and debate for over 2,000 years and for good reason. Personally, I think it is a powerful metaphor for dying to this world so as to bring in the next.

Upon leaving the Basilica I noticed the sun poking through the overcast skies ahead appearing in the shape of a heart. It was profoundly touching as I attempted to capture it with my camera phone. I made my way just a few hundred yards north for my next stop at the botanical gardens where I enjoyed communion with flora from the world over. It brought back memories of my visits to greenhouses atop Illick Hall back in college when I had made botany an academic focus of my life. I imagined what might have been had I pursued it further than a bachelor's degree, but alas that was then and this is now. I was bummed that the south wing remains closed for renovations where had been my favorite among the facilities' numerous collections- the tropical fruit trees. Funny thing is I had an intuition before leaving today. When I thought of my favorite spot 'mangrove' came to mind. And wouldn't you know it they're are in the midst of installing a replica of the Florida Everglades ecosystem, wherein mangroves are native. I'm looking forward to a future visit upon completion.

I've chosen to pass up an opporunity to gather for a Buffalo Entrepreneur Meet-up this evening. They'll be hosting a viewing of the highly acclaimed film The Secret. I'm feeling the need to continue my rest and recovery. I feel better today, although still not much of an appetite. I felt that wave of gratitude come over me this morning inciting a perm-a-grin type reaction. It's wonderful to be so alive.

One LOve
Sean

Every life is heroic, SEAN.

And yours has certainly been no exception.
With deep gratitude from the bleachers -
The Universe

January 14th marks the dawn of time in heaven. This signifies the return of light to the earth plane after 6 months of darkness. On this day the Sun moves into Capricorn. This is the most auspicious time to start a new business, relationship or any other activity. Things done during this time will have divine support.

The energy starts shifting on the 13th through the 15th. All of these days have tremendous prosperity energy. Indra, the king of heaven, rejoices during this time of abundance, fun, and luxury and happiness. To mark this occasion and to welcome the Sun into Capricorn we will do a special homa (fire ritual) for the Sun on January 14th. As this day also happens to fall on a Sunday, it is an especially powerful time.

The Sun governs ones health both physical and mental, self-esteem, proper functioning of the heart and the vision.

Astrological Timings for Ancestors

Each New Moon is a powerful time when the ancestors can interact more easily with you. The most powerful day to perform offerings to the ancestors is on the first New Moon after the Winter Solstice. This year Vedic Winter Solstice in on Sunday, January 14th (ET) and the New Moon occurs on Thursday, January 18, 2007 (ET).

The Winter Solstice is the day on which the relationship of Earth and Sun has changed path heading toward Summer Solstice, and the Earth, Moon and Sun are in a special configuration on New Moon such that the un-illuminated side of the Moon is facing towards the Earth. During this time a special Siva energy is available with great potential for spiritually increasing consciousness.

During this special New Moon on January 18th, your offerings can greatly increase consciousness of ancestors and elevate their awareness. From the other side, on that day, your ancestors are powerful anc can give blessings as they are released into Light. On New Moon days in general, you can maximize this special window or time by doing tarpanam (offerings) every hour between 6 AM and 6 PM.

January 8, 2007
Facing Problems
Running Away versus Moving Forward

There are times when change-moving to a new city or a new home, or changing careers-is the right thing at the right time. But there are also times when the urge for change is really just a desire to run away from problems that need to be faced rather than avoided. These are the kinds of problems that recur in our lives. For example, issues with coworkers that seem to arise at every job we take, or repeatedly getting into unhealthy relationships. A move might temporarily distract us, and even cure the problem for a time, simply by taking us out of the situation in which the problem fully manifested itself. However, the problem will eventually appear again in our new situation.

One way to make sure you aren't running away from your problems is to notice whether you are moving towards something that is exciting in its own right, as opposed to something that is appealing only because it is not where you are now. For example, if you are leaving a city because you feel you can't afford it, you could be reinforcing poverty consciousness, and you might find that you are unable to make ends meet in your new city as well. It would ultimately be less of an effort to stay where you are and look more deeply into your beliefs about money. You may discover that as you address these issues, you are able to make more money simply by changing your mindset. You may still decide to move, but it will be an act with a positive intention behind it and not an escape, which could make all the difference.

Any pain involved in facing our issues is well worth the effort in the end. When we face our problems instead of avoiding them, we free our energy and transform ourselves from people who run away into people who move enthusiastically forward.

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Hold the pork
Category: Parties and Nightlife

So much for my plans this morning to visit the botanical gardens and the Basilica after a long night of pain and discomfort. I managed to attract what I am guessing is "food poisoning" based on the symptoms. I've only endured this once before following a meal at Roy Rogers along the I-90 en route to the Thousand Islands for a family vacation almost 10 years ago. I thought I was going to die it was so horrible; uncontrollable vomiting, cold sweats, cramping like you wouldn't believe. I spent half that trip laid up in bed. This episode hasn't been nearly to that degree, but it's been rough to say the least. I started feeling queasy a couple hours after sitting down to dinner with my family last night. I was able to go to bed and fall asleep, but eventually I awoke in such discomfort that I opted to induce vomiting by sticking my fingers down my throat. I filled the toilet bowl three times as sweat streamed down my face. It was ghastly.

I had already taken in sustenance when I received the invitation to join my aunts, uncles and parents for a Sunday dinner. I was plenty full but figured I'd join them anyway to visit. My plate was filled with tossed salad, candied yams and half a twice-baked potato when the pork came around. I really didn't want to eat any meat but took a "no thank-you" helping anyway. And looking back I can clearly see how I gave my power away. I didn't enjoy eating it one bit, in fact, I found it to be somewhat objectionable. Yet, I forked down the two slices of tenderloin and just let it be. I declined an offering of red wine declaring that I'd already lost my taste for it from the New Year's Eve debacle the week before. And so now pork has joined the ranks of the unpalatable.

To my knowledge nobody else suffered from the meal as I haven't heard from anyone to that effect. I'm not so sure it was an entirely physical issue anyway. I think I brought it upon myself psychologically by going below the line in my thoughts and feelings. I was sitting upstairs in my soul chair meditating after saying my goodbyes to everyone following the meal. I listened as my mother and uncle discussed their fears of getting old and dying. My mother especially voiced her concerns of being a burden on anyone as she ages winding up in a nursing home to die as had my grandmother. She said something about instead doing it like the Indians used to and going out to the country to die in a snowbank. I noticed I was becoming irritated by the nature of the conversation as I judged them for unconsciously focusing on their fears. It wasn't long thereafter that I was Iming with Maranda and began to feel nauseous as the rest is history.

And so now I'm crawling back above the line on this much more wintry day as snowflakes mix with rain drops amid high gusts. Hopefully it won't amount to anything requiring us to snowplow later as I'm not sure I could handle that activity in this condition. There is enough time in the day to go visit the gardens and the church that once ranked as minor Basilica to the Vatican many decades ago. However, I'm not sure I feel up to it as I linger in reflection and recuperation. Tomorrow is another day and perhaps a better opportunity for such an outing. We'll see. Maybe I can get a cinammon muffin in my stomach washed down with some herbal tea and see if that helps the cause any. It felt good to finally evacuate my bowels as well. These are indeed most peculiar times...

One Love
Sean

This is just your friendly, annual reminder, SEAN, that things can change so very, very fast.

Passport up to date? Shot card? Bank deposit slips in your possession at all times?
You're gonna love 2007-
The Universe

January 8, 2007
Nurturing the Quiet
Libra Daily Horoscope

A relaxed and laid-back outlook can influence your decisions today, prompting you to seek opportunities to engage in calming, restful activities. You may want to consider taking a personal day so you can focus your attention wholeheartedly on those peaceful pursuits that bring you the most fulfillment. This can be a most practical choice, as your tranquil state may make focusing on your fast-paced obligations a tedious chore. However, you may simply prefer to be alone with your thoughts and retreat into your home without quite knowing why. As you indulge your need for quiet privacy today, you will likely discover that there are many ways you can ensure you remain as content as you feel in this moment.

Often, the easiest way to maintain a mood of contentment defined by blissful serenity is to retreat from our worldly concerns in order to nurture those parts of ourselves that are responsible for this gift of peace. Contrary to what many may believe, it is entirely possible for tranquility to exist in an environment wherein chaos reigns supreme. We need only, through focused reflection, to determine from where our inner quietude stems. Relaxed as we are, there is little that can come between us and contentment. Because we understand its source and how to access it, we gain the ability to conjure feelings of serenity no matter what the nature is of the circumstances that are unfolding around us. You will attain a lasting ability to call forth calm today when you use your time alone wisely.

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