Twenty One Years Ago Today

Does it seem like it happened twenty one years ago? Do you remember where you were? Because I do. I was teaching in my classroom. My class had left the room and the front office called to tell me what was going on. I quickly turned on the television as there weren’t any students in the room and watched the South Tower of the World Trade Center fall in real time. It was surreal to me and I remember how my mind couldn’t quite grasp the reality of what I was seeing at that very moment.

Students came back in for the next class I was teaching and I had to remain calm, but I was a little more than shaky. Luckily, at that time my students were still blissfully unaware of what was occurring and we forged on, business as usual. By later in the day word had spread as parents had come to take their children safely home. We had many parents who worked in NYC at the time and many at the World Trade Center. Some of those parents never came home, which was a tragedy that as a community we all mourned, along with their families.

I remember how my Mom used to talk about the day that JFK was shot and how everyone remembered that day and where they were. I feel that 9/11 is similar especially for those of us on the East Coast. It changed our world in ways that we still feel today…twenty one years later.

I still get teary on this day. I don’t know why, but I do. So on this quiet Sunday morning, I ask that you take a few moments in stillness with me for all of the souls who passed in this tragedy and for all of those who were so affected by it.

We have not forgotten. You are always remembered. God bless.

Shine On!

xo

Two Hearts

I watched a movie on Netflix called Two Hearts. Have you seen it? While I don’t want to give away the story, nor the plot in case you’re interested, instead I’ll give you my takeaway from it. Because I cried while watching the movie because it hit home a few times.

“Life is short,” is a line we’ve heard time and again, but until we’re in that position of loss or grieving, we sometimes forget that nobody knows how long any of us have here on Earth. In an instant, circumstances can change dramatically and we are left without warning. Having lost many loved ones, I understand this, as you probably do as well. It isn’t easy when someone we love passes away, nor when we are battling an illness that makes life uncertain.

Regrets for words left unsaid or for those harshly delivered makes healing harder for those left behind. Focusing on the smaller annoyances and not seeing the bigger picture also play into guilt later on. Seeing the good in people and voicing your loving support is important – to the giver and to the receiver. Unfortunately, this may be a lesson learned a little too late for some people.

So here’s my gentle reminder – remember to reach out to those whom you love and cherish. Show your loving support so that you know that they know how you feel. Be mindful of how much of a difference you can make by your loving presence in someone’s life. We are all connected here. Plant seeds of kindness and watch them grow. Understanding and love are like Miracle Grow to people as they bloom when the supply of support, love and patience are delivered daily like sunlight.

Shine On!

xo

Sunday Blessings

Happy Sunday!  I hope your day was filled with love, peace and goodness!  I stopped by a local farmer’s stand today and purchased the flowers above.  Does anyone know what type they are?  Are they zinnias?  The pot contains light pink, dark pink and orange blooms which just looked so perky to me that I had to get them.  The best part?  They love full sun which is key for me and they were on sale!!  Don’t you love to help out the local Mom and Pop stores and get to bring home a pot of sunshine to your home?

Well, at least that’s how I feel!  But that wasn’t the only blessing I enjoyed today.  I braved going to the grocery store to pick up a few items and while I was there, I observed a man, probably in his early thirties, staring blankly at the feminine products on the shelf.  So I approached him because he looked befuddled.

“Do you need any help?” I asked as I walked up to him.

“Yes, please.  I need to buy unscented, heavy pads with no wings.”  He pointed to the array of products on the shelving, “But I am not sure what is what.  Can you help?”

“Of course,” I answered him and we began looking to find what he needed.

“My wife sent me.”

I smiled and told him what a good husband he was to go to the store for her.

“We found out she was pregnant on Friday at the doctor’s office, but now she’s bleeding.”  He looked at me with a forlorn look and I just wanted to reach out to hug him.

“Have you called the doctor?” I cautiously asked.

“Yes, but she can’t see him until tomorrow.  It’s our first and we’re a bit scared that she’s already losing the baby.  I mean, we’re not sure, but…”  His voice trailed off.

“Well, then let’s get these pads for her now so you can get home to be with her,” I answered and found exactly what he needed.  I took the package off the shelf and handed it to him.

“Here you go.”

“Thank you.  You are my angel.  I couldn’t find the pads that fit her description.”

“I’m glad to help.  I’m sorry to hear about what you’re going through and I hope that all is ok for you both.  I will keep you in my prayers.”

“Would you really?” he asked as his eyes looked a bit teary.

“Yes I will.  I’d be happy to do whatever I can to help.  I wish you both all the best.”

“Thank you.  You were really nice.  I needed that today,” he said as. he looked straight at me.

“You know what?  So did I.”

As he turned to leave, I thought of the Sunday blessing we’d just had because two strangers bonded for a moment in a grocery store.  Life is full of little opportunities that drop in unexpectedly and we never quite know how a momentary kindness can help someone else.

So that’s why I called the post, Sunday Blessings because he made me feel good to help him and to add someone else to my prayer list.

Shine On!

xo

Angels Walk Among Us

Throughout my lifetime, I have been blessed. I know this and I don’t take it for granted. In fact, I want to celebrate it so that you can see it in your lives too! Because when we see with a grateful heart, we understand that we are never alone. God sends us angels in all different forms to help us along the way. Strangers who become friends. People who go out of their way for others whom they don’t know. Information and synchronicities that come out of nowhere that are the key to unlocking certain situations. Wisdom that’s shared simply because it will help someone else. Do you see what I mean?

These human angels walk among us. Have you ever wondered how you got the right person on the phone when you were trying to fix something? Or noticed a stranger in line at the grocery store doing something so kind and it makes your day? Have you ever been nudged to reach out to someone to help them? Why, that’s God’s way of expanding his angelic kindness through us!

If you’re not a believer in God, but perhaps in Mother Nature’s infinite wisdom or the Universal Laws or something else, I feel as if it is all similar when we connect with kindness with others. Can you feel it?

Since the start of this next chapter with my heart, I have met so many angels along the way that it’s been amazing. The Divine Timing of our meet cutes has been extraordinary. But I know (big inner smile) that there’s a soul plan here at work. It’s not by chance most likely. It’s got more of an angelic feel to it and I am relishing in all of it.

For when we are grateful, when we acknowledge the blessings, we open our hearts/minds/souls to more of the same. When we receive with grace, we can also give out and flow with the loving energies that are so healing.

Not just now, but throughout my life, angelic humans have made their presence known to me, helping me when needed in extraordinary ways. My sister and I have had many of these experiences and we are so grateful to continue to have them. We marvel at each encounter which solidifies our thinking.

So I hope that if you are nudged to get out of your comfort zone to connect with someone else that you will not hesitate. Sometimes we are the catalyst for joyfully changing someone else’s life and that’s the best feeling ever! For those of you, who like me, have been the recipient, let’s continue to pass it along, spreading kindness and love with each personal encounter.

Our world aches to grow in love so let’s feed it! Keep shining your heartlights for we can see them!

Shine On!

xo

I See The Moon

I see the moon and the moon sees me. God bless the moon and God bless me.

My Mom

This morning we awoke to cooler temperatures which were perfect for me. No humidity in the air and just the sensation that all was right in the world. How lovely! So, I took a break from cleaning my house to sit outside on my rocking chair to just relax and watch the world go by. Of course, you know me, I had to look up to the sky because I always find skywatching to be a peacefilled endeavor.

10:54 am Can you see the 1/2 moon? The airplane?

10:56am Look at how the clouds have changed.

What do you see in the clouds? I see angels with trumpets! How about you?

Do you ever take a moment to look up at the sky? Who would have thought that at almost 11am the moon would still be visible in the sky? Isn’t it a lovely sight? I hope you are all having a lovely Saturday start to your weekend! Keep shining your heartlights and remember to look up!

Shine On!

xo

Make A Joyful Noise

I awoke this morning before six am hearing:

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness: Come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the Lord He is God: It is He who hath made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise: Be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; And His truth endureth to all generations.

Psalm 100:1-5 King James Version

I spoke along with my mind, knowing full well that today is the anniversary of my Mom’s passing and this was one of her favorite psalms. I laid there quietly with tears running down my cheeks, repeating the psalm that as children we said before bed every night with her, and in her last moments, we said at her bedside.

Of course you knew I’d be sad today because I loved my Mom. She was special. She was genuine and like me, she loved with her whole heart. But I miss her even more because I’ve been sick, and there’s nothing like a caring Mom to take care of you when you’re home sick. So I’m a bit more vulnerable today than usual.

But I miss her. I miss how she saw life and could absolutely make me laugh, even when I was sad. She saw through people’s baloney. She kept life real. Even with her condition, she didn’t forget some things that became funny over the years. She and my sister (in the photo) always had a good time wherever they went! Can’t you tell?

They made a JOYFUL NOISE and loved every second of it! That’s what life’s about – taking what you’re given and making the best of it. Being in the present moment and realizing the gift that is this precious present moment! I am thankful we had many of those over the years and that my sister and I continue the tradition together.

Thank you for reading today as my heartlight is grateful, but perhaps a bit dimmer than normal. Any love and light would be appreciated if you can spare some? Thank you in advance for sharing!

Shine On!

Xo

Do You Often See 11:11?

Often when I pick up my phone, the time on it shows 11:11, so what better way to celebrate today’s date which coincidentally is 11/11! For today’s date is special, especially with the added year being 2020. Did you take notice of it? Do you know anything about it?

Well, I started a little research because the synchronicity of these numbers fascinate me. Below are a few articles that you may find interesting as this is a time when a fresh start and a portal to deep transformation of humanity is here.

Beyond numerology, planetary alignments and the angelic significance of the numbers, I feel a change today. An opening of spirit and when I stood outside in nature, I felt that deep connection to love and light in our world.

https://www.bustle.com/life/luckiest-days-november-11-2020

https://numerologist.com/numerology/why-november-11-2020-is-the-most-powerful-manifesting-day-of-the-century/

https://feliciabender.com/the-numerology-of-11-11-2020/

https://www.wellandgood.com/11-11-significance/

These were just a few interesting articles I’ve found. Please feel free to add any that you’ve seen, including your own if you’ve written. The more understanding and knowledge we have, the better for us all!

Keep shining your heartleights dear friends! Happy 11/11/2020 to you!

Shine On!

xo

It’s Been Ten Years!

I got a notification that ten years ago today I registered for this blog.  It is amazing to me that I started this journey so long ago.  So, Happy 10 Year Anniversary to my blog and to all of my followers!  I am very grateful for all of the blogging friendships I have made and for all of the amazing people I have met through blogging.

So, thank you for being you!

Much has happened over the last ten years in my life as I am sure it has in yours as well.  Many changes, much growth and new opportunities for which I am grateful.  The fact that I am still here 18 years after being diagnosed with breast cancer is a blessing to me.  I don’t take my life for granted and I have found appreciation for every precious moment that I am here for my loved ones and friends.

I appreciate The Presents of Presence in my life and the myriad of precious connections I have made because of those gifts.  Through each change, I have found peace even when I weathered tough storms.  I have always felt the angels looking out for me and my faith has steadied me through many trying ordeals.  While life school isn’t easy, the lessons we learn and how we grow from the experiences make it all worth it.

So today, I’m extending my appreciation for all that The Presents of Presence has given to me and for all of you who have connected with me over the years.  We have been through much together and have weathered many storms, thankfully.  You have taught me, inspired me, shined your heartlights into my life and I pray that you have felt my heartlight shining into yours with positivity, inspiration and love.

May you all continue to stay healthy through this Covid-19 virus.  May you shine your heartlights for all to see and continue to connect virtually with each other while this storm passes as well.  Because it will pass and our lives will be changed.  But perhaps we will find the gifts to be appreciated in the changes as I have.

God Bless.

Shine On!

xo

Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

I love reading Irish Blessings because they bring serenity to me.  These days it seems many are searching for serenity with this pandemic of the Covid-19.

So I’m wishing all of you health, serenity and an abundance of luck, shamrocks and a rainbow with a pot of gold to share!  Keep shining your heartlights!

Shine On!

xo

May Your Day

May your day unfold on gossamer wings as the angels nestle you with love. 

May the heavens shine their sunlight rays and moonlit stars to illuminate your path. 

May the holiness of this precious moment be appreciated as the gift it is. 

May mercy, love and kindness be yours always.

Shine On!

xo