Be Your Own Pilot

Happy May to you! I love seeing flowers everywhere here in the northeastern part of the U.S. What a great time of year to get outside. I hope you're able to spend some time with Mother Earth and get grounded.

This week's Seed came from Katharine Hepburn with a little comment from me:

"As one goes through life,

One learns that if you don't paddle your own canoe,

you don't move."

KH

"And, I would imagine, 

if you let someone else paddle your canoe,

you'll either go in circles or

off in a direction where you don't want to go!"

BLC

I've learned to be an observer -- of myself and others. It's not about comparing (which only leads to despairing). It can be a huge opportunity to learn. When I watch myself and take stock of some of the same things I do day after day, I realize that I get the chance to question whether I really want to keep repeating myself. Or, am I in a loop that's driven by a falsely perceived need to please or satisfy others? I love how my coach will bring me back to the question, "What do I love?" And, it's no mistake that the journal I write in around that question is titled on the front, "What do you crave?" When I am paying close attention to what I want and indulging myself, things work out so much better. For years I was part of a group called Team Pleasure created by the amazing Mama Gena (mamagenas.com). It was one of the most uplifting experiences of my life. As the women and I in this group immersed ourselves in studying the Power of Pleasure we became happier, better people. We had more to offer the world as a result. 

When I watch other people managing their days and I listen to their stories, I can almost always tell if they are operating from a core of self-contentment or a series of self-denying, self-limiting "shoulds"... "I should do what my [mother, father, partner, kids, co-worker -- fill in the blank] wants me to do or thinks I should do." "I should be more polite or considerate." "I should take care of [again, fill in the blank] even though it's a drain on me.", and so on.  When you "should" yourself all day long, it doesn't feel good and you are not able to present your best self to the world. 

Paddle your own canoe. Go where you are most needed and where you can find your passion and purpose. The world needs what only you can offer. Pay attention to what you love -- this is what I wish for you. 

Sparkles and Love,