Conscious Parenting and Moving at Warp Speed

I did things a little differently with this workshop, I advertised in an independent newspaper.



Like much of the Emerging Futures conversations that were happening at Oceanstone a few weeks back I declared my intention and let things be.



I looked for space to hold my workshop and came across the Shambhala Meditation Centre and booked it sight unseen (it felt right). And that choice generated more e-mails and conversations for future workshops, meetings, interviews that I could ever imagine. This choice also allowed me to make huge self discoveries about a judgment I held about men being able to "go there" and understand when I speak of energy and emotions.



By advertising in that independent paper I generated a lot of interest. A reporter from the Daily News did an article about my workshop in today's newspaper, which then triggered a phone call from the TV station asking if I'd do an interview on Live @ Five tomorrow night.

The interest and publicity isn't what is so exciting to me (although it is nice) what is so exciting to me is that by simply putting myself out there all of this has happened and is continuing to happen.

I can't wait to engage with the people who show up for my program on Saturday morning.

Who would have thunk it could be effortless (many of you I know...).

Life is indeed good and there is always more.

Dreams & Energy ~ Men & Parenting

I experienced a headache last night and earlier in the evening. For those who know me this is not a common occurrence. The 'headache' was just on my forehead, then a bit at the very top of my head.

I woke up around 5 a.m. this morning still experiencing the 'headache' sensation... then went back to dreamland.

I dreamt I was in this wonderful place, there was a group of us and we were meditating. Afterwards I was exploring this building that was full of beautiful and ancient things. The rooms were interesting and a treat for the eyes and other senses.

I dreamt that my kids were with me and I was trying to get them to settle down to sleep so I could go to the room next door and learn something. I walked into the room and my father was there, with others I did not know. And then I heard my 2 yr old so I left and went back to her.

Then all of the sudden I was laying down with my eyes closed and my 6th chakra (3rd eye) opening and releasing energy (and receiving it). Huge energy flow in and out, a feeling of warmth and release. I woke up (no headache) and begun my day with this dream very much still detailed in my minds eye...

It is quite a few hours later and I can still feel the remnants of that feeling now. My future self continuing to unfold.

This past week has been really interesting for me. I have started my summer project "Leaders on Leadership" and I am still preparing for next weekends "Conscious Parenting Workshop". I am discovering there is still so much for me to learn about myself and I welcome each feeling that brings new information into my awareness.

On Friday when I arrived home I had an e-mail in my inbox. It was from a woman who was interested in my parenting workshop... she and her husband. When I read those words a wave overcame my body. I felt anxiety in my solarplex. I was nervous and didn't know what to think. What I also notice now is that I forgot to breath into it.

When Mike came home from work I told him about my anxiety over the possibility of a Father coming to my workshop. Mike being Mike said "Why do you man bash in them?" and I said "No, of course not. All of the sudden I am experiencing feelings of worthlessness and being incapable of providing anything that may be of use to this man" BINGO... I still held filters within myself that told me I would be dismissed in the presence of a man in my program. I was preparing to make myself smaller... to dumb it all down.

And then Mike said the perfect thing to me "If he wasn't open to what you have to offer, he wouldn't be interested in coming at all." And I welcomed breath right down to the base of my spine in that moment. All the uncertainties I was experiencing vanished when I breathed into the truth of his words.

SO how fantastic is it that a father is wanting to consider a different way of co-creating his family with his children and wife? I now will welcome men too, to come and become curious about your children's brilliance.

And my lesson, I don't have to make myself small because of my preconceived notions (that no longer serve me) of what men would or would not "get".

We really do all have it within us... regardless of sex... some are just more awake then others.

I welcome what tomorrow brings... there is always more.

Noticing Thoughts...

• Noticing when people are spewing out a line and when they are decloaking their truths
• Noticing when someone is in a deep slumber and when someone is restlessly sleeping or very much awake
• Noticing how some people are genuinely surprised when being identified as a leader, where perhaps they may have still held doubts within themselves or with how others perceive them
• Noticing how vulnerability comes into play in the least expected places
• Noticing how I still hold my own filters and perceptions about people before I even speak to them
• Noticing how becoming genuinely curious about someone breaks down those barriers that I had prematurely put in place
• Noticing how my outlook on reality shifts a little bit more with each discovery

Life is good and there is always more.

Seeing our Children

As I am preparing for my next Conscious Parenting Workshop; talking with a reporter who is doing a story about it; talking with a woman on the phone who saw my advertisement and sees the great need for this type of workshop... who also has that desire within herself to make a difference and impact in some way but does not yet know how; speaking with prospective partners for creating something like this workshop in their centre or community... I know there is something huge here.

I know that I can make a difference, I know that we all can make a difference if we take action in whatever way we can, if we speak our truths and learn from each other.

And I read Louise's blog entry today Cries in the Dark and my tears flowed, my rage surfaced and my determination came forth... this is what it is all about for me, this is one of my main messages in my workshop... take ownership for your lives and for the relationships you have with your children.

See them for who they are, for what they are doing. Witness their tears, their rage, their laughter, and acknowledge them.... without judgment or condemning them. It validates their feelings... they come to know they are worth it. And they feel they are someone.

There is so much we can offer our children by teaching them they are valuable to us as individuals. By also showing our human side to them and letting them know it is all okay.

I'm very interested to see how my next workshop will unfold. As I said many times before, each program experience shapes itself in a unique way because it is all about the women who show up and the energy and experiences they bring into the room.

Life is good... and there is always more.

Leaders on Leading ~ Exploring the Nominalizations

As I embark on my summer project I am contacting those people in “leadership” positions to invite them to sit down with me so I can interview them.

With the early replies I have received it sounds like there are many who will be interested in participating

I think that simply by doing this project I will open a lot of people up to considering how they are moving through their world. By writing this article it will allow others to see how we don’t always do things the way we would like to, and to perhaps question why they are not living all aspects of their lives in a way that is meaningful to them.

My intention is to de-nominalize the word leadership and find out what it really means to the individuals who are in senior positions within my organization. My intention is to also find out from those who are considered leaders and are not in senior or even supervisory positions… just what does it all mean to you?

I hope to shake things up a bit, have people reflect on the way they are currently “leading” and consider within themselves, is it serving me? My hope is for my own self as well, is the road truly paved with good intentions? And if everyone hold a very similar vision…where is the disconnect happening?

Yes indeed it will be an interesting summer.

Life is good and there is always more.

Power of Voice

It never ceases to amaze me; the profound changes that happen in the body when we find our voice.

When we no longer are willing to remain silent, when we are freed by the bounds that we put ourselves in and can express the words that are our authentic truth.

In that moment, in that declaration of your story, your truth; Power Resides.

As I've had the opportunity to hear women in the past year form words to their truth, they claim part of their power back.

As I listen to women tell the stories of where they have come from, about what the believe in, and how they choose to live, I see the light shining in their eyes.

As I see a woman brazenly stand before an audience of many and unabashedly tell her truth, her story, in a way that is deeply meaningful to her, unashamed of the tears, demanding to be seen.... I am profoundly moved, the power in that is felt by the room.

Eyes open up. People awaken. The world changes.

Remaining True to MySELF

Did I make the right decision?

In the past few weeks I was getting curious on my involvement with the Union and if I continue to serve as President of my local with out bias in all situations.

I was wondering within myself if I would be able to stand by and keep silent about a persons choice to stand on the victim side of the equation.

I choose in my life to live at cause. No longer willing to stay on the victim side for more that a moment. I choose to take ownership for my actions, my voice and my emotions and choose to engage from that side. If the situation ever arose... would I be able to stay true to myself... and still act on behalf of the members wishes?

I met with a my Regional Vice President today to discuss a number of things and he asked me how if I was happy with my choice to take on the presidency in the fall. I talked about some of the things I was disillusioned with, some things I wanted to do differently, then I went big. I talked about my values and authentic self and how I was questioning if I would be able to "serve" a member... no, it was more would I stay silent in order to serve as president.

We had a really big conversation about who he is and holds himself to be, his values and how he still chooses to serve at times when it is not agreeing with his values (i.e. integrity). I spoke about how I was not willing to enable people to remain on the victim side of life (the why me side).

And the outcome of our discussion was... I don't have to remain silent. I need not put myself in any situation where my body is telling me not to go.

So here is my declaration.

By being my authentic self and not compromising or keeping myself small, I will be a BIGGER invitation for these people to step into themselves and not to compromise their power (i.e. to also stand at cause).

This works for me, I choose to remain President of my local, and serve differently. By simply inviting them to consider something more, perhaps that they didn't see or realize before, life changes once again.

Tomorrow is another day... there is always more.

Leaders on Leading ~ My Summer Project

This morning I engaged in a conversation with Cheryl Flemming about my week at Emerging Futures and Women - Redefining Leadership Reclaimed and her week at the PWGSC Leadership event in Cape Breton. Something different happened during our conversation, one of my Emerging Futures... I opened my mouth and talked about my summer project.

I apparently have given myself a summer project. The words just fell out of my mouth in the the air. Over the next month or so I plan on interviewing the "leaders" in our organization about their views on leadership.

I plan on asking the following questions:

• What do you thing being a leader is.
• What is leadership?
• As leaders what is the one thing they would like to be remembered for?
• If you had the freedom to be a leader, however you wanted without fear of judgment, would you do things differently?

Participants will remain anonymous and at the end of the project I will write an article on what I found.

The Regional Director General has already agreed to participate. I am confident that I will be able to interview everyone I approach.

Life is indeed good, another future is unfolding.

Tomorrow is a new day, and there is always more.

Meaningful Conversations

It was nice to come home after my time last week at Oceanstone for the Emerging Futures experience. More than a few thoughts and insights entered my consciousness during these 3 days with a few surprises for me.

When considering the WEL-Systems Catalyst and CODE Model Coaching programs for my future growth, I felt a bubbling up of excitement from my solarplex up through my chest to my throat. I also experienced a small sense of fear... am I capable of this?

Yes I am. I am more than capable of standing alone, decloaked for all to see. I have expressed this time and time again in the past year at work, in workshops and facilitation workshops or speeches. I am up for my SELF.

Jessica and I went to the salon early on Saturday morning then picked up Sara and ventured forth to a community barbecue at her school. It struck me that for the amount of children that were there, only a handful of adults were on hand. It definitely saddened me to see that parents are too busy to come down with their children to a FREE BBQ and enjoy 2 hours as a family with others in the community.

For me that speaks loudly of the need for parenting workshops and family events. There is a definite need for families to reconnect with one another. Parents need to make a commitment to take some time out to make time for their families away from the TV and computer, interacting, talking, growing together.

I had a challenge with Jessica on Saturday night. It was a big one which I will not discuss the details (in order to respect my daughter). However the consequences to her actions had to be discussed and understood.

What I also decided to do was to post a few posters on her wall in her room. I have invited her over the next 2 weeks to add to the posters as she sees fit, then at the end of two weeks I will help her for a pledge to honour her SELF.

There are 4 posters on her wall. I can't remember the exact words but they are as follows.

1. What are some words or feelings that describe who the "real" Jessica is?
2. What are some of the things you want to be remembered by? (things you have already done and/or things you will do in your future)
3. What are some things you can do to contribute (or offer) to our community?
4. What are some ways you can make our family have more fun together?

When discussing this with her I told her I don't want anything negative on the wall, I want everything that is positive about her, things that make her feel good, things that may make those around her feel good. I explained to her how we will create a pledge (her emerging future of sorts) afterwards so she can have a nice reminder of the brilliant person she is full of love and compassion to look at on those days where she may not remember it.

Life is good... tomorrow is a new day... there is always more.

Reconnection Retreat ~ November

Need a weekend to reconnect with yourself and have meaningful conversations with others?

This weekend experience will be an invitation for you to slow down, breathe and reflect on just who you are in this world you have created.

Begin your experience with a fine dining experience at Rhubarbs, followed by conversations and entertainment in the Great Room at Oceanstone. Engage in a day of guided conversations with plenty of time for self guided reconnection time, if you choose.

This is a space for you to feel comfortable bringing in those aspects of your self that you are passionate about, bring your art, your song, your practice, your passion... the space will be made for you to display or engage in these things with the others who have gathered.

On the second evening you will experience something you may have only held curiosity about. This experience will be an invitation for someone else to come in and share their passion and knowledge with the participants and will be different for each retreat experience.

On your final morning as you awaken in the comfort of your room, take the time to breath in and allow the energy that is prevalent to flow through you. This final morning we will come together for a final guided conversation and sharing of insights. A buffet lunch and a fond farewell.

Reconnection Retreat

Date: November 23rd to 25th, 2007
Location: Oceanstone Inn and Cottages, Indian Harbour, NS
Registration Fee: $600.00 + tax

Price includes: 2 nights accommodations* and all meals; The book Sekhment Rising ~ The Restlessness of Women's Genius; A 3 hr Introduction to Shamanism experience (participation optional)

* accommodations = room in the inn. If you wish an upgrade it will be reflected in the price

To Register: Contact Lori at potential@eastlink.ca or call 1-902-461-9169 with payment details for your non-refundable deposit of $250. Full payment due 2 weeks before the program begins.

Exploring Our Potential Consulting 2007

Happy Feet...Sheer Joy Being

Tonight we gathered in the great room to watch the movie Happy Feet.

What a HUGE metaphor this movie is for showing up and being the unique expressions we all individually are.

The "brethren" represented for me both dogma and as well the pressure from society to conform to the status quo. If you do not you are not normal, if you are not like us, you are different and in society different is deemed a bad thing.

This talks very much to me, to my journey through WEL-Systems in choosing to stand alone, as my authentic self, decloaking and standing raw for all to see, as I really do believe we all have our unique stories to tell and by each of us gathering the courage to actually speak our truths, to put sound to our unique signal... the world changes.

This also is represented in my belief that celebration our diversity is the pathway to growth, understanding and being able to live in harmony. I'll refer you to my past post entitled Diversity & Respect. There are so many people still out there who think Diversity has nothing to do with them. Yet they just don't understand the terminology.

The definition of Diversity is:
1. the state or fact of being diverse; difference; unlikeness.
2. variety; multiformity.
3. a point of difference

This is each and every one of us. We are all completely different as it is our histories, life experiences, upbringings, current lives, hopes, dreams and intentions for our futures that make us so different.

So it is time to really celebrate this in us all. The sheer joy of being yourself, unique and unabashed. Celebrating in your own sound and rejoicing in the sound of others.

Today in the program room, to hear the voice of other unique signals as they spoke of their vision enlivened me... it is a contagion. The excitement of hearing a woman form words and declare what is meaningful to her and feeling the excitement within yourself knowing that you too are going to have this same impact on those around you when you speak of your vision.

It creates a sacred space for others to make declarations of their own and for others to ponder the bigger pictures within themselves. What if I choose to live my dreams and manifest them into reality? If I dare to allow myself to go big, stay big and see what unfolds?

I'll tell you it is my experience when you do this... even within the quite stillness of yourself... your soul will absolutely sing with the joyousness of the unlimited potential you hold. Go ahead and let it infect your thoughts... become giddy with the sheer joy of knowing you are much more that you were taught to believe...

Life is good and tomorrow is a new day. There is always more...

Exploring Nominalizations of Leadership

It is almost time to go... there is still a half a day left for growth, conversations, and discoveries.

This week we were invited to redefine leadership. That leadership as we know it (for the most part) does not work. That as women step into "leadership" roles, often times they lose themselves.

How each of us have our very own notions and definitions (as we each have are own unique
view of reality).

When you ponder the notions of leader and leadership what comes to mind for you? Does it imply that a leader demands followers? That only one person or a select group of people can have a voice, a valid voice that people actually listen to? Or is your notion of leadership something very different?

When I think of a leader and leadership, women in leadership, I think of a woman who is very clear on her intention and vision. A woman who is strong in herself, in her truth and is quite willing to stand in that, brazenly, unapologeticly. A woman who recognizes this in every person and who encourages and values growth, not only in herself but in those around her.

Leaders are every where, they are in every facet of society. Leaders can work, or not work, can be entrepreneurs or directors, they can be "wet behind the ears" or the can be "long in the tooth".

You see it isn't time and experience that makes a leader. You don't have to pay your dues or be high on the totem pole, you just have to be willing to be. To be and to be seen. To speak and to be willing to allow others to hear your voice, of your truth. To move forward, not to keep regurgitating to past. To stand in the moment and engage in an unfolding future... and Emerging Future.

I have learned that Emerging Futures can happen simply by choosing in the now to engage in a way that is very meaningful to me. Already intentions and ideas for Exploring Our Potential Consulting have formed into time and space. All that it required of me was to talk about my vision... and engage... as it crossed paths with the unique intention and vision of others new opportunities are forged for co-creation. It just is, as I just am.

Not losing myself, my sight, my vision, my voice. Never settling for less that the huge big intention I hold for myself and Exploring Our Potential Consulting.

And in my J-O-B, I see how this conversation of Emerging Futures - Redefining Leadership will make a real impact on the women I work with who are in these "official leadership" positions. How quite simply our world as we know it will shift, once again... creating space to allow for the unique expression we all are to shine as brilliantly as our selves.

Emerging Futures... Women & Leadership

I wonder what this week will bring? Another program with Louise and a group of fantastic women (who knows who will be there?).

I am absolutely bubbling inside as I know that each time I step into a program with Louise, I step more and more into my SELF.

I am thrilled to be a part of this program this week. Emerging Futures... who knows what I will create for myself tomorrow?

Life is good, there is always tomorrow (and it's only 1 more sleep away!).

Family Visits

Since the 4th of the month I have had family visiting in one way or another.

My uncle came to visit from the 4th to the 12th. We had a really nice visit, spent alot of nice time together, he stayed at my sisters, it was nice.

My father came down on the 13th and will be leaving early morning on the 20th. Also a nice visit but much different when the guests are staying at your house.

I've discovered alot of things about me so far with his visit.

There is also a lesson for me here that is out of my awareness. My lower back is KILLING me, I have had to take Advil a few times... which is not normal for me. I have been very emotional these past few days as well, Mike says I'm cranky. I agree. I am tired, I am on an emotional roller coaster, and I have back pain. Very interesting and not surprising if I look at this from a Code Model perspective.

The good thing about all of this is that on Tuesday I'm off to Oceanstone for an Emerging Futures program experience with Louise. I think I'll take some time this afternoon (while my father has taken Jessica out for a movie, mini golf & dinner) to relax, breath and create space within myself for my upcoming week.

Emerging once again in an accelerated fashion to my next destination in my journey of self.

Tomorrow is another day... there is always more.

Vacation... tomorrow

Breath...

In and out...

Half day of the finance conference left, by 1 p.m. tomorrow I will officially be on vacation.

A volunteer appreciation tea at my daughters school tomorrow. My father arrives from Florida tomorrow evening.

My plan for the next few days that I have off? Get my posters out to advertise my upcoming Parenting Workshop . Work on different advertising ideas, officially book a great space, and devote some time to nurturing my business... and visiting with my dad!

Again I'm ending this with a deep breath in... and out...

Tomorrow is a new day, and there is always more.

Celebration of Life...

What a beautiful celebration we had today in memory of Norman Smythe.

Pictures, stories, memories, wishes were shared and laughter was readily exchanged (as well as tears).

It strikes me that one man, who passed away at 52, could hold such an impact on so many.

There were people there who worked with Norm back in 1977 (When I wasn't even 2 yrs old) and there were people like my friend Kim who is in her 20's whom send words of the impact Norm had on her life and what his friendship meant to her.

Those who knew him, loved him... (unless of course he didn't like you then you were screwed... LOL)

Betty and Olive who tended to this wonderful man throughout his illness, taking him to appointments so he wouldn't have to be alone, co-workers be damned... they were defiantly family to Norman.

Donna who made a point to come see him on a regular basis, along with other of the "retired" group who kept in contact.

The "Boys" his co-workers, friends, brothers. The back corner of the office who always kept him in the loop of what was going on at work. Who kept him in their coffee club, who would lunch with him, who stood by him.

All those in the office who would invite this man time and time again to join them in the holidays because the loved him and wanted him to be a part of their table.

Rhéa who loved this man for the goodness she always saw in him... whom he held love for after many many years.

My dear friend Laura... who is always there for us all. Who loved this man with all her heart, whom tries to keep strong for those around her... who needs to remember to honor herself and her own hurts.

There are so many who were there whom Norm impacted in such a strong way. For me Norm taught me loyalty, friendship, and loving ferociously.

He appointed himself my protector at my first work Christmas party in 2001, he defended me to someone he perceived had done me wrong and that endeared me to him.

Norm was well respected in the office, and to know that he though highly of me and my work ethic made me so proud.

Getting to know Norm more personally through his friendship with Kim and during his illness I saw a man who loved deeply, who had fears, who had tears and who appreciated the friends he had in his life.

Here is to you Norman. I will remember you with fondness. I will think of you often. My heart is filled with thoughts of your voice, I will not forget holding your hand in the hospital the day before you left us.

And I will remember you each Sunday morning when I watch Coronation Street, it was you after all who let me know about Tracy killing Charlie (and it hasn't even happened in Canada yet).

Tomorrow is a new day... your light will keep moving on.

Passing of a Friend

Just recieved the phone call.

Norm passed away this morning... age 52.

Nothing else to be said.

Thank you for your thoughts.

Until next time.

Lori

The last days...

How do you act when someone you know and love is dying?

What do you do? What do you say?

I received a call today that my friend Norman was being moved into palliative care. I was told that if I wanted to see him I should really go and do it soon, within the next few days.

Somewhere deep down I knew it was going to come to this... eventually. Terminal cancer was always the diagnosis... yet Norm kept holding on, he kept persevering, not giving up, and the cancer moved from place to place, and it spread from organ to organ, eventually tumors in the brain... but still he was not giving up. Until now.

I went this afternoon to visit Norm, he is definitely done his battle, I can sense it (I'm sure others can too). He has fought so masterfully up until now... but fighting drains the energy. He is exhausted. He is in pain. I can't do anything to help him.

I simply went to his room. I held his hand. I asked if there was anything I could do for him. And I was there. That was all that was needed. Simply to be there. Offer some comfort by way of love and compassion.

And now the tears will come to me. Finally. I'm angry, I'm sad, I'm wanting to help, to comfort more... yet I know I can only do what I can... simply be there.

I hope my day allows me to visit tomorrow. It's a choice on my part I know. Will I be brave enough to choose it?

Tomorrow is a new day... there is always more.

Have Self Will Travel

I’ve been getting into the swing of creating things that are meaningful for me. As I create a selection of programs and services I can offer through my new business, travel continues to enter my awareness.

Have Self will Travel.

Creating a staple set of workshops, programs, retreats and other services for me here in Nova Scotia is one thing, but I am not going to limit myself to that. If someone is interested in having me come to their community, city or province, whatever the case might be, I will go to them.

And why not?

In the past I have not made much movement in my own evolution because I did think I had anything to offer. I kept myself so small. Now as I move through my world I do so respectful to others yet unapologetic. I am not small, I am not quiet, I am not worthless and I am not meek. I am huge, I am loud, I have so much potential and I have a voice to talk about it.

Each time I trust in myself and what I have learned and discovered about who I am and what I can offer, I am truly amazed at the resonance it has in the women I am working with. 2 years ago I wouldn’t have imagined that I would be able to have an impact like I have in these woman’s lives. And all I have done was show up, get curious and become that invitation for their brilliance to come flooding back into their awareness.

These words are not said with any ego involved, these words are said with awe and amazement.

I have what I need and the beauty of it is that I can carry it all with me.

Have Self Will Travel… that resonates with me.

Keeping me boundless, no opportunity will be wasted.

Tomorrow is a new day… and there is always more.

Introduction to Shamanism

I have begun taking a 3 day workshop on Shamanism, one day a month for the next 3 months.

I recently became re-acquainted with a woman who was once my insurance broker and have discovered she is on her own personal journey of self discovery. A mutual friend kept saying, you and Angela should really get together, I hear you talking about many of the same things. I kept putting it off. Until I came across her on "facebook" and saw her company Divine Connections linked there. I of course checked it out. And became curious about just what it is she has been up to and just how my ex-insurance broker became this who new woman I never even knew about.

I contacted Angela and we set up a time to talk about what we have been doing in our lives. I had some questions about the types of services she offers and she in turn had questions on her own. I had questions about Shamanism; was it a religion? Was it about worshiping something or someone? Just what is it all about?

Knowing what I know now about myself I know that I have to learn more. I know that if I am curious and drawn to something then that generally means I have some lesson to learn about myself there.

As some of you may be curious as well I am going to let you know about my experience. The only thing I would have changed personally is I would have grounded myself more in my body before embarking on the "journeying"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Journey 1

She did some drumming and invited me close my eyes and journey to the 'lower world' with the intention of connecting with a plant (my choice), I chose this one I found at Oceanstone on my last visit there.

My entry point was the circle at Oceanstone… to the brook, walking down the centre into the ocean. Underneath the rocks in the middle of the water there was an archway… my entry point. As I moved down this tunnel with clear walls and ceiling, that meandered down, and down into the earth, all of the sudden I am in a rich lush forest.

I found and spoke to the moss I discovered my last trip to Oceanstone. I was not fully connected to myself during this experience and I can fully remember being aware of the room I was in at the same time as being aware of my experience… in snippets, my consciousness kept going from this journey to my everyday reality, and back and forth. Then I was invited to come back through the tunnel and open my eyes. My thoughts I wrote down afterwards are as follows.

The moss taught me: Beauty is in everything. Stop… notice. Moss was the most vibrant green… living… I'm living. Look at all that is round you and breathe it in, there is beauty in everything. Don't pass it by.

Journey 2

Again she began drumming and invited this time for me to enter through an entry point of my choice and to locate my 'power animal' and discuss what information it holds for me.

I chose the same entry point, I found it easier this time. I had preconceived notions of where I would end up and what my animal might look like… or so I thought. As I went down the tunnel I was very surprised when I dropped on an elephant. In the Savannah of some sort.

I remember thinking, man this elephant is in the way, and I turned to try to find my power animal thinking this can't be him. But I turned back and looked at him, and I knew I should ask him. So I did. It felt very right. How can you miss an elephant? We 'talked' about it being okay to feel immense, huge, and heavy like I do when I am in full connection with myself. We spoke about my not always feeling safe to allow my god force to shine through and that I am safe it is something that I just must accept and embrace. I'm sure there was more, but I remember playing. I remember riding this magnificent animal and being sprayed by the mud. I remember the feel of his skin and his presence. In retrospect talking about it now, it was quite awesome in it's own way. Then I was invited to come back through the tunnel and open my eyes. My thoughts I wrote afterwards are as follows.

Connection with the elephant. Breathing myself into him and him into me. We are one. My feeling of presence… of knowing… of heaviness… of wisdom… of remembering who I am… my source… that is us all.

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In the past year I have been very blessed with the fact that I am awake and aware of the more that is out there. We bump through life most days without ever thinking about anything outside of our personal reality. Sometimes we know these things exist (like people from different cutures, people of different religions) but we shut out what doesn't impact us directly. Little do we realize that we each impact every single person and thing in our world, to one extent or another.

To learn about other peoples experiences or new experiences to you offers a greater understanding of the way you live your own life. I have found lessons in everything I engage in.

Life is good... tomorrow is a new day.

New Program/Workshops/Retreats

I'm in the midst of developing new programs to offer through Exploring our Potential Consulting (my business).

Conscious Parenting - is a weekend workshop that will invite parents (and parents to be) to consider a new way of parenting. To recognize parenting styles which they may employ now, but are not happy with and to choose to move through their world, as a parent, much differently... consciously. Read what participants had to say about the last Parenting Workshop here. The CD Living WELness ~ Single Moms: Struggles and Strengths is included with this workshop.

Reconnection Retreat - Not feeling quite right? Been slipping back into that restless sleep? Need a weekend to reconnect with yourself and have meaningful conversations with others? This 2 night experience will be at a luxurious location by the sea. Facilitated conversations that will invite you to slow down, breathe, and reflect on just who you have become in the world you have created... is it still serving you, are you feeling you are on the right track or do you need to re-focus on your intention of the unique signal you are in this world? An out of the box experience will await you on the second night, curious for more? The book Sekhment Rising is included in this workshop. Details will follow.

Explorigng Our Potential (work series) - four hours each, every 2 weeks until compeleted

• Decloaking
• Standing Along
• Stepping out of the Box
• Power of your Personal Potential
• Beneath the Bull and the Bravedo is Brilliance
  

Each of these 5 workshops will take participants deeper and deeper into discovering themselves, their voice, their intention, their potential... then the final workshop will bring them right back to seeing this very thing in each person they encounter. The book Fully Alive from 9-5 is included with this series.

Discovering Authentic Self - a total of 5 days to really become curious about your source, your authentic self. There will be two, 2 days sessions, a month apart, with one-on-one coaching in between, followed by a final session to check back in with discussions on just who else you can be. The book When the Horse Dies Get Off... and stop dragging it around is included with this series.

Letting GO - a 3 hour awakening to the "more" that is out there. In these 3 short hours you will begin to get curious, "are you living authentically" and come to the realization that by holding your intention high and letting go, Life Happens!

Watch for updates on the side bar under Products and Workshops in upcoming days.

Tomorrow is a new day and there is always more...

Conscious Parenting ~ Weekend Workshop

The first Conscious Parenting workshop was a roaring success (click here to find out what participants thought) and the Conscious Parenting workshop will now be offered on a regular basis.


This 2 day weekend workshop is being offered to parents or parents-to-be to consider a different way of living and nurturing their children’s brilliance and individual expression.


Through these sessions Lori will be inviting participants to discover a new perspective on parenting. Inviting them to find their authentic self and to consider how they can co-create meaningful family relationships with their children.


It is an invitation for participants to recognize their programmed behaviours (unconscious parenting) and to become more actively aware in the parenting behaviours (conscious parenting).

Date: July 14th and 15th, 2007 (Sat & Sun)

Location: Halifax Shamabhala Center, in the Snow Lion Room
1084 Tower RoadHalifax, NS B3H 2Y5

Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. (Sat & Sun)

Price: $85.00 for complete workshop, breaks, workshop manual, 1 CD from the Living WELness Series.


Your workshop guide is Lori Walton, certified WEL-Systems® Master Facilitator and Quantum TLC™ Facilitator.


To find out more please contact Lori Walton at (902) 461-9169 or e-mail mailto:potential@eastlink.ca


Exploring Our Potential Consulting 2007

Conscious Parenting Workshop ~ Testimonials

This course means so many things to so many people. Some thought I was crazy as I asked my mom to join me. What a big difference it has made in our life. We are better able to understand each other and feel where each other is coming from. During the session I had said some things that my mom was wowed about. She knew these things affected me as a child but did not realize how much they still affected the person I was and how it was preventing me from being the person I wanted to be. This enabled her to look within side her own self and feel things she had never felt before, accepted things she would have rather forgotten. And hold her head high as she know felt important.

Me and my mom have always had a great relationship, best friends if you will. Since this course I see my mom doing a 180 on everything she does now. She stopped letting people push her around and she speaks. Man I love her for that………………

Donna Hunter
Dartmouth, NS

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Just wanted to let you know that I felt your Workshop was a definite benefit.
Although the material being presented wasn’t new to me, I still learned from the experience.

I will definitely continue to promote your Workshop to my clients, as this was an incredible 3 days.

You created an environment where I felt comfortable to express myself without any fears of judgement.

Good Luck with your future Workshops and I look forward to whatever new experience that you’ll be offering.

Amy McNaughton RNCP/RSNA
WEL-Systems® Facilitator

Letting Go

Wondering what, imagining when, considering where, allowing my imagination to be free.

Where will I be in a year, in five, in ten? Where will I be tomorrow?

Will I allow myself to fly? Freeing myself of self doubt?

Or I will I not fully trust and keep myself smaller than I know I can be.

Letting go…

Trusting…

Inviting…

Allowing…

Creating…

Manifesting my dreams into reality.

World keeps turning 'round

Time flies by when you allow it to. I have been waiting and waiting for this upcoming week to arrive so the Diversity Forum will be over and done with. Not that I am wanting it to be over but for me when I am so involved with creating or co-creating something, when I have put alot of work, effort and me into it. I want to see it happen.

It seems for the past 3 weeks I really have not been doing anything but working on this Diversity Forum... not that it's a bad thing, I have fully, consciously devoted my time to the planning and other nuances that go along with trying to organize this event.

I also have a fantastic group I work with in my "day job" and I have been worrying that perhaps I have been neglecting my new co-workers... an unfounded worry as I made sure I communicated this with them. It is so nice to be working with a group of people who support the bigger picture of things by encouraging us (the employees) to become involved in these committees and groups.

I have so much to get back to. After the Diversity Forum is done for this year I am really going to work on creating a real basis of workshops and programs I can offer through my consulting business. I know travel will somehow be involved in all of this and I am really excited about doing a "travelling roadshow" as I've written it in my journal from time to time.

Lots of things happening with my eldest daughter and I lately too, this is for another post, another day. She is already such an amazing young woman, I am just so excited to watch her unfold day in and day out, always more than she was.

Tomorrow is another day, there is always more.

Aprés Workshop Thoughts and Insights

I sat down to write a piece or an article on my thoughts on my Parenting Workshop and it just didn't come out as I expected. Here is what did come out.

My thoughts on my Parenting Workshop... it wasn't about "parenting", just like it's not about "leadership" or any other nomilaization that is out there... it is all about stepping into yourself and knowing who you authentically are.

Opening up yourself to receive and relaxing into the feeling of the moment. Coming home to yourself in every single way and choosing to live your life by your own design.

This then outpours into your very essence, and you can carry it into all aspects of your life as you choose it. Whether that be relationships, parenting, leadership, home, work, whatever... it is simply who you are.

And choosing to create a future that is meaningful for you starts within... the power of one... yourself.

Awakening, realizing, remembering, reclaiming, being, coming home.

Standing witness to the sacred that is in you, in me, in each and everyone of us... in existence whether we choose to see it or not.

Connection, to self, to my source, to everyone and everything, we are all one though still very much unique individuals.

Choosing in the moment how do I want to live my life? Do I want to own it and shape it? Or do I allow my self to fall victim to it and be shaped by it?

Trusting in yourself, your soul, your instinct, your signal #1, to know it is the gift that will never lead you astray.

Knowing it, is as simple as breathing, relaxing, inviting and allowing yourself to know the truth of your own experience.

Life is good!

Completion of my first Parenting Workshop

Today was the final day of my very first parenting workshop.

I personally thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The energy that filled the room, the energy that came from each of the participants who showed up through the 3 days was simply amazing.

Each woman in that room brought so much to the workshop, they directed the flow of the days.

I can't begin to fathom the number of insights and awakenings that came into the awareness of each individual and the ones that will spawn from this workshop in coming weeks and months.

Nor can I fully fathom the impact they will have on others in their lives, the invitations they are now for their children and children to be to relax into their authentic self expressing with their own voice.

To know that if they want to, they can choose differently. To know that if it truly feels "right" to them they should say or do it and not worry about what other people think they should be saying or doing.

To step into themselves and welcome it. Welcome that feeling of peace, love, calm. The Bigheadedness is not a bad thing. Self acceptance, confidence and awareness are very different from Ego. To not feel guilt or shame for feeling "right" within your life, but to celebrate ti within your self knowing that this is the signal of who you are in the world.

I know that this is the first of many of this Parenting series of workshops I will offer through my new company Exploring Our Potential Consulting. I also am aware future programs will flow differently.

I am also working on Reconnection Retreats which will allow for participants to learn something new via an invitation for another to come in a provide an evening workshop, and alot of time to have facilitated conversations, reconnection and self reflection over the rest of the weekend.

In a few weeks time I am also very aware that I want to "give back" if you will to my work place. After the Diversity Forum and the planning for the Finance Conference I will take time to create this work event. I have yet to really work out the details but I want to create something at work where people can come and explore and step into themselves.

Witnessing the sacred as each woman discovered their authentic self, as each woman reclaimed a piece of their personal power that they had allowed to be taken from them. To claim their whole self as the brilliant being they are. Simply Amazing.

Tomorrow is another day... there is always more.

Diversity & Respect

I've been very busy over the past while with helping to plan a Diversity Conference at my work. It is going to be a fantastic event and the theme is "Diversity as our Future … Equity as our Potential", which for me really speaks of where it is at.

As I think about Diversity, I think of it in a much broader context as some of my colleagues at the planning table. I am thinking not of each of the identified groups (visible, gender, sexual orientation or ability), I am thinking of us each as unique individuals.

For me diversity is about respect.

It is about seeing the individual for who they authentically are, where they have come from, their hopes, dreams and aspirations for who they can become.

To look at their beliefs, values and attitudes and become curious about them.

Respecting them does not mean you have to agree with them.

Respecting them is recognizing this is a meaningful aspect of this other individuals life in which by learning about it can enrich our own. Or at least broaden our horizons and create awareness.

This can be taken to all areas and aspects of life. To embrace and respect another persons beliefs, traditions, lifestyle is simply that. Ask the questions, do the research, come out to learning events that will help you know something you didn't know before.

And RESPECT each other, don't impose your beliefs on others or your disapproval of another persons life, this ends up promoting ignorance, hard feelings, bigotry and hatred.

I know this is not the type of world I wish to continue living in. Person by person we can change this. Stand up and speak up in those situations where you feel you need to.

Those times when a group is gathered and someone makes a demeaning remark or tells an inappropriate joke, don't just laugh uncomfortable, do something, say something or approach the individual after the fact. 9 times out of 10 you weren't the only one there who may have been offended by it.

It all comes back to speak your truth, be clear and trust in who you are inside, your authentic self and don't be afraid to step out of the box or swim against the current. Doing so with encourage others to do what is meaningful for them. And our world changes, bit by bit, person by person.

Tomorrow is a new day... and there is always more.

A Reflection

This week I spent time in the emergency room at the children's hospital. I took care of a sick toddler. I learned of a friends passing. Worried over an injured cat. Shelled out unexpected cash for new breaks. Attended a funeral mass and reflected on those in my life who are sick.

The things I will remember about this week are...

• The undeniable love and calm I experience holding my two year old tight to myself.

• The beautiful and independent young woman my eleven year old is and is continuing to become. The pride in discovering what a talented photographer she is. The awe at seeing how a pair of glasses can make her look even older than she already does!!!

• A bus ride to work this week reminded me of the sheer beauty of innocence and openness. There were two gentlemen who got on the bus from one of the group homes or perhaps the mental health hospital on the route. These two gentleman made my morning. After taking their seats they greeted each an every person who got on the bus with a huge smile and a robust Good Morning! And it made me smile. There was a young man (maybe 22) sitting across from me tuned into his iPod and staring off into the distance. One of the gentleman kept looking his way and began to talk to him. I immediately judged the young man as someone who was going to be impatient and rude... I was quickly reminded by his actions that judgments of others are useless, human kind is full of surprises and potential. The young man each time took off his earphones and spoke to the gentleman who was wanting to connect with him. After a few interchanges of conversation like this the gentleman reached out his hand an introduced himself to the young man by name. It was a beautiful exchange to watch as I witnessed the joy come over the gentleman's face as the young man replied in like with a smile and a handshake. To know and keep that feeling within me... noticing how their energy and innocence effected everyone within earshot. How much it made my morning to bear witness to it and how it is such a simple thing to do.... say good morning to those you pass. Not to worry about what others may thing, stepping out of societies norm of not speaking to people you don't know and just allowing yourself to be and do what you are moved to do, say what you are moved to say.

• The power of simply being present. Speaking what you are moved to speak and letting the people whom you care about know it. For giving the gift of yourself to those who are grieving, simply being present and letting them know you are there for them in whatever way you can offer.

• I stopped to give some money to a panhandler who said to me, I hope you had a good day today miss. And I replied I did, I went to a beautiful funeral service. And the panhandler asked me what this persons name was and said "I will say a prayer for her and her family". And that moved me. To know that everyone is connected in the world and everyone can make the world shift by their words and actions. Who knew that this woman's offer of prayer would make me remember we are all connected no matter what our religion, beliefs, race, culture, gender or social status.

So I could choose to look at this week and reflect on the not so great things that happened. I can can choose to look at this week for the gifts that were presented to me... the gifts of light, caring, loving, laughter, innocence and connection.

Tomorrow is a new day. There is always more.

Cancer… What’s it all about?

An old friend of mine… not a close friend, but more than an acquaintance… was diagnosed with Leukemia on December 1st, 2006. She was 35 at the time. She was a childhood friend of my sisters, and I was her sister’s friend. That was in the 80’s.

A few years ago while visiting a good friend of mine I had the opportunity to meet her again in Jen’s living room. She apparently was a neighbour and friend of Jennifer’s. We had an opportunity to met again, catch up, reminisce. She has 2 daughters and a husband whom she loved. It was nice to see her again and get to know a bit about the woman she had become.

In December my friend Jen called me up to tell me about Carla’s illness. At that time I thought of my good friend Norm who has been diagnosed as having terminal cancer for 4 yrs now, and was still very much living and living large, so I was very optimistic when consoling Jen who was very distraught at the news.

Life went on. I heard when they found a “perfect” match for a bone marrow donor for Carla. Again I was very optimistic in my mind frame, she would come through they found a donor for her.

Yesterday morning Jen called me at work. Telling me she just heard from Carla’s husband. She was dying that day. A bit of denial when through me… are they taking her off life support? No she wasn’t on any… her kidneys are failing. Still I thought she can come through. Jen called me yesterday afternoon. She was gone.

Shock, I suppose. She was only 36 (although I thought she was 34). 2 girls 14 and 8 yrs old, husband, and family who loves her. She just had a transfusion… how can this be? This is wrong all the thoughts. Wanting to be there for my friends, wanting to be there is some way to comfort, offer my thoughts, and offer something.

And I couldn’t figure out why I was crying. After all, we weren’t close; we didn’t really talk like I do with most of my friends. Why did this resonate so much with me? Was it her age, her kids (both girls like me)? Who knows? It doesn’t matter.

Then all of the sudden I begin thinking of Norm again. And I am saddened. A man loved by many, and still very much alone when it comes to a family of his own. A man who created a bond with me at my first work Christmas Party, as a roll of my protector… who I didn’t need but it certainly endeared me to this man.

And he has terminal cancer, a slew of experimental drugs and new tumours have come and gone, he has had many ups and downs with his health, he has changed his way of living and his outlook on life in so many ways, taken down his shell and began to let people in more and more.

And I have danced around the sidelines, wanting to be there for him, do things with him, but not knowing what to do, what to say or if he even wants me to.

Yesterday I decided to stop dancing. I’ve left a message with Norm last night; I hope he is able to call me back. I am hoping to spend Sunday morning with him (and Coronations Street), and let him know just how much I think of him. How much he is loved by so many, including myself. How much I wish I could do more for him that just be there.

It’s time to get off my ass, Carla’s passing has brought an urgency to me to engage with Norm and let him know all of these things I think and feel about him while there is time.

The message I think that I will carry from this is the time is now. Say what you want to say to the people who are meaningful in your life. Don’t just sit around thinking about. Get up and DO SOMETHING…. Engage! And life will happen.

Believe it or not life is good, and there is always tomorrow, the question is where will you be?

Gawk & Gab - Oceanstone

A few weeks back a good friend of mine Margot decided she wanted other people to see a movie she enjoyed. "Lady In the Water" by M. Night Shyamalan.

I had always assumed this film was a horror movie and had no desire to watch it, however the title laid in my mind. And sure enough, here was Margot with this vision of creating a space for others to see it.

Well Margot went with it. She contacted Carole McInnis from Oceanstone to tell her about her vision. Next thing I know we are having a WEL night out at Oceanstone. Dinner at Rhubarb's Grill, Movie in the Great Room at Oceanstone and a night in a cottage by the Atlantic Ocean.

It just happened to fall on one of the most beautiful weekends so far this spring.

There was 13 of us women (including my daughter Jessica) in the private dining room on the upper floor of the restaurant. Drinks, Appetizers, Entrees and even desert was had by those of us who could handle it. The conversations were great, the energy was thick, the women amazing and welcoming to those who "we didn't know".

As we got ready to move down to the main building to watch the movie Jessica and I went to get into our pyjamas and grab a blanket. The great room has recently been renovated and is beautifully done with an additional area and view of the setting sun. There was enough comfy seating for everyone in a horse shoe around the screen. And the movie begun.

The movie is a fantasy of a Narf (water nymph) named Story and of her purpose of coming to make contact with man and awaken something within in them to allow themselves to find their purpose in life. There were so many metaphors scattered throughout this movie it was unbelievable to me. It was also very interesting how each woman's perception of the movie was so vastly different. Some saw a connection of peace, some experienced a bit of fear, some thought it was just plain bizarre, I found it quite moving in most parts.

All though this movie the character Story is in need of certain people around her to make her journey complete, and it takes the main character a long time to remember who he is. He is the healer, he has just been so full of grief and misery with events that happened in his life that he lost faith in his abilities and capabilities. He had to find himself for Story to be able to return from where she came from.

I found it an amazing movie and I really would enjoy watching it again and seeing MORE that I didn't pick up on... metaphors that are relevant to things going on in my life at this time.

After the movie we had fantastic conversations on things that came up for us during the film. We stayed and talked, then after a while Jessica asked if we could go back to the cottage.


Out into the mild night we go. The stars are so amazing when there are no lights from the city taking away from it. Once we finally got into the cottage we decide to do some painting. I bought some acrylics and tempra paints for canvases and for rocks. And we created.

Jessica created these two pieces and about 7 ladybug rocks. It was fun to see how she creates and works.

I have some pictures of her actually doing the paintings but that will have to come online later on.


It was good to have that time with my daughter who is almost 12 (four months today she will be). To have her with me there, to paint, to talk, to walk, to cook, to just be. I certainly won't forget this night we had at Oceanstone.

I look forward to more in the future Gawk and Gabs.

It was a perfect opportunity for me to show Jessica fully, just who I am and to get to know just a little bit more about the woman she is and who she is becoming.

Thank you Margot for creating the space! Life is good... and there is always more.

Single Moms CD Testimonials

I couldn't wait to purchase and listen to Lori's CD Single Moms: Struggles and Strengths. I did so on Wednesday and to date I have listened to it 3 times. While listening to Lori and Louise's dialogue, I found myself more then a little engaged! I found out many things. One was why I have always had a deep respect for Lori, almost from the time I met her. Her single Mom struggles were not lost on me and now listening to her CD I realized how much her life mirrors my own Mom, who was a single mother during the 70's (not a very socially acceptable time). My Mom did the same things that Lori did, but the money she earned was still far below what she needed to make, to maintain a good life for me and for my sister. She chose to marry a man she didn't love to provide us with a home and security. That is a profoundly hard thing to understand, except when listening to Lori I realized, it was a different form of pride. She had a job, but by providing us with what was perceived as the "proper" family and home, she felt good.
It's amazing how much impact the conversation between Louise and Lori had on me. Lori is so real to me, not just because I know her and she's my friend. She has a way to make the WELness™ series accessible, not only to me, but to so many other women. As Louise put it so well, Lori is the poster child for the WELness™ series . She attained all the goals she set out for herself and she's just keeps evolving! She inspired me to reach out for my dreams as well, and it's an amazing thing to have someone in your life where it's all positive and welcoming.

Thank you Louise for showing Lori this amazing path to self awareness and discovery, you're presentation of the series engaged her to reveal and "decloak" the real Lori, who was there all along. I love what you said about her, who is this amazing 'unmasked woman'!

There are so many different facets to Lori, but the outstanding personality traits are her teaching abilities, her leadership qualities and she's an amazing Mom! I feel like if I had to describe her in one word it would be EXTRAORDINARY!

Again, thank you both.

Laura Beaton
Dartmouth, NS

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I finally broke down and decided to listen to Lori Walton's Interview of Struggles and Strengths of a Single Mom. As I was listening to it in the car on my way to work this morning, I heard the voice of a very powerful women. I am constantly absorbing her words even once the car is parked and I am climbing on the ferry for my morning commute to work. I feel the urge to take out my journal and jot down my thoughts. Meanwhile I can't wait to get to work to hug Lori. Hug her to show her that she will never be alone…….hug her to show her how truly beautiful and intelligent she is……hug her to say I am glad you are in my life…..hug her to thank her for sharing…sharing a life experience with me that has so impacted her life and molder her to the confident women she is today. She is a gift and I know in my heart of hearts she has been sent here to us to share that gift of love, courage and strengths.

I too am a single mom. I guess you could say some of us live each day with that fear of society being right, that children who grow up with a single "MOM" are more likely to be high school drop-outs, unintelligent, criminals who will never amount to anything. Far to often we find ourselves pushing our children to the brink in hopes that people will see only the perfections. It breaks my heart that as a single mom, I too hold that fear for my son.

I know what it is like to lose a job because your boss was of old school and said that you had no right to be a single mom. How dare he. So I found myself pregnant for a new baby, a mortgage I did not know how I was going to pay and no job. Talk about a let down. Hanging your head was all you wanted to do. But something in me said "NO", I want my son to know that, that is not what life is about and I pushed to have his beliefs and discriminations removed from the workplace. I never got my job back but he too got to experience the humiliation and the shame he put so many others through.

I have such a sense of pride in knowing that my son loves me and taking this course with Lori has helped me to be a better mom to him at his level not at mine. Even at the age of 6 he can see how hard I am trying each day to be that better person, who loves him unconditionally. It is so easy to let your own fears and anxieties rub off on your children. We need to be strong and teach then respect and confidence…..Love the world and it will love you back.

Donna
Dartmouth, NS

Excitment and Moving Forward

My CD is completed.

It's the first one in the Living WELness™ series Single Moms: Struggles and Strengths is a thought provoking conversation between myself and Louise LeBrun. It will soon be available online at the WEL-Systems Online Storefront.

On this CD we discuss my experiences of being a Single Mother and a Single Mother on Welfare, we discuss what culturally conditioned beliefs I held about my self when I was in that position. We explored some things to consider if that is your situation and looked at some "if I knew then what I know now how would I have moved through my life differently?"

My intention behind this CD was for women to know they are not alone, not in your thoughts, actions, or feelings. There are different things to consider about who you are, what you are capable of and the difference you can make in this world, if you only consider and awaken to the massive amounts of potential you hold.

My intention was to also bring awareness to others that single mothers have just as much to offer as you do.

As you sit in your home or office reading this, you may wonder from time to time... what kind of difference can I make, what kind of mark can I leave on this world... and you do nothing but wonder and entertain those thoughts. It is my firm belief that if we just start to speak to what is meaningful to us, share our experiences and stories and start to move forward living authentically towards what we are passionate about... the world with change.

I've made changes in peoples lives already. I always have even when I wasn't aware of it. You are too, you just may not know it yet. Now imagine if you consciously choose to contribute... the possibilities are endless.

Life is good, and tomorrow is a new day!

Letting things sink in

Last week I joined this internet network place that everyone seems to be talking about lately.

What is really neat about it is people from your past can find you easily and reconnect with you, if even just to say hi.

For me where my father was in the military for 33 yrs it was good to hear from friends I wouldn't have known for very long, I was in a different school every year from grade 2 to grade 11.

A few nights ago I made a profile for Mike on face book.

And last night after not seeing her for 16 years he talked with his half sister who is now 23 yrs old. What an experience that was for me to witness.

I had the opportunity to speak with this young woman for quite a while and I could just feel the sheer joy and disbelief she was experiencing.

All of the sudden a brother she barely knew has arrived again.

One she never thought she would ever get a chance to talk to.

That is pretty huge in my book.

I have such a sense of joy inside of me as I know that this event will forever change the life of this young woman… how could it not?

And isn't that what it's all about? Personal growth?

Events like these are surely a part of her own evolution… Mike's as well. Whether he cares to admit it or not (I don't know we haven't had this conversation yet) there is a young woman out there who is so overjoyed with finding him, her big brother, that this will also have a huge impact in "our" world as well.

Who knows what tomorrow will bring? There is always more.

Reflection of Day 1

Since January when I finished creating my workshop out line I have been anxiously awaiting it to begin.

As weeks went by I would think of the things I needed to do in order to put this together, from posters, to target audiences, from room rentals to proposals it all came down to this past Saturday.

On Friday night I got the keys to the community centre to set up for my early morning on Saturday.

After I had the room all set up just how I wanted it I sat in the middle of it and soaked it all in.

I visualized myself there in the morning, with a group of woman, and just allowed myself to let the feeling of fullness back into my awareness. And I breathed it all in.

Saturday morning arrives and the women begin to file in. The location was a little confusing as there are multiple entrances on the building, yet there are totally separate spaces. So many were going to the School entrance not realizing what was behind was where they needed to be.

It turned out just fine. 5 amazing women came into the program room yesterday morning. Some who have taken WEL-Systems certification, some who have experienced a WEL-Systems workshop, some who I have coached and some who can in blind with no real inkling of what it was all going to be about.

I don't remember the words that came out of my mouth, I can't remember for the life of me as each minute passed. It seems as though time FLEW.

The conversations and insights that were coming up for the women were pretty awesome and very intense for some of them. I've come to discover that workshops / programs like these take on a very life of their own (which I knew, but I didn't really KNOW it). Before I knew it it was noon and we hadn't even finished all the models I had planned for the day.

My subconscious mind kept me referring to "tomorrow we will... we can talk about that tomorrow..." etc. etc. This tells me that I would prefer facilitating/guiding an experience where we go for a few days in a row, and I really feel that is right for my future programs.

Things I have learned, go wherever your awareness takes you. If I feel I start talking about something that seems so out of context stay with it until I feel it is done being said... this seems to always prove relevant to someone who is listening in a big way (sometimes bigger than I will ever know).

I felt sad when I had to close the space. I had promised to take my niece & my 2 yr old to see the Big Comfy Couch Live in Halifax at 1 p.m. The conversations needed to continue happening and some big waves came for some people as I was packing up. Note to self for next time... leave at least 2 hrs free after a workshop experience to talk with anyone who needs some more time.

Inhale.

Counting down the days until next Saturday. Riding the waves that are my life.

Power Deck by Lynn Andrews

Dream

One day you will remember the Great Dream, and the way will become known to you.

You entered into life through the veil of the Dream, because your reason for being here must be kept secret from you until you find your way home.

You don't know who you are, but one fine day you will remember.

It is like creation looking for itself.

You are in oneness with all life, though you are not aware of it.

You will awaken from the Dream.

Let the Great Mother rest within your spirit. She is the universe. She is the womb of all life. She is the light that shines from your eyes, illuminating your daily dreams.

The possibilities you dream of will become your reality.

How is that for a metaphor for my life right now? There is always more.

Connecting with Myself

A Deep Breath.

The kids are gone... I am home.

Jessica went off to school and Sara is at the babysitters, Mike is at work. The cats are curled up in a ball on the chair.

It is raining/snowing and I sit in my flannel jammies with a hot cup of coffee and begin my day.

This is how I will be beginning my days in a few years time. Not having to worry about getting to the office for 8 a.m. simply allowing myself to awaken in a slow and luxurious way. Letting my creativity move through me and deciding in the moment what I want to do.

Today I begin my day reflecting on what days like these are going to mean for me in my near future. Reveling in the feeling of peace, relaxation and excitement in the knowledge that I create my days and how they flow.

My first workshop begins tomorrow. I have facilitated on my own in the past, co-facilitated with others, but never a workshop that I created that will span over a few weeks.

This feels different from Coffee Conversations & Catalysts, this is not just an open forum, it will have structure, yet still the freedom of flow, who knows where the conversations will lead and what will come up for us during these next 3 Saturdays?

There is a group of 7 participants coming in tomorrow morning, some are friends, some are colleagues, some are co-workers, some are parents and people I have not yet met. What I know is the people who are coming will be the right ones to be in the program room at this time.

When I close my eyes and allow myself to consider the outcome of my workshop, I quickly feel myself tapped into the fullness of my Self.

This is what it is, this is what I am meant to be doing at this time in my life.

How many people can I touch by sharing my story, sharing my experiences, presenting a different world view to consider of your own lives and how you are living, by simply showing up?

If I knew how many people have been moved or affected by my words in some meaningful way I know I would be shocked at the numbers (this is not cockiness this is fact). I think we all are unaware of just how much impact our stories have on other peoples lives. I think this is a really important reason to live your live authentically and speak your truth.

Today I prepare, I relax, I reconnect and settle in with the person I am. Tomorrow the world with shift a little more, once again.

There is always more... tomorrow is a new and fantastic day.

Peace and Traquility

Last night I discovered a place of peace and tranquility.

I discovered a quiet niche.

I discovered a place to be with my thoughts that inspired me to write.

Who Knew it was in my own room?

For a few years I have had an old desk in my room unused (with exception to store my "need to iron" laundry on) at the end of my bed.

I needed to collating the papers for the hand book for this weekend Parenting workshop so I chose to do so in my room. I decided to light the candles (I never use) and get to work.

When I was done I sat at the desk facing my wall (Shirley Valentine moment) and I felt the urge to write. I put on some relaxing music and wrote a short piece entitled "Believe" which I am including at the end of this post.

Who knew I had this inspired space in my sanctuary... my room?

And it beacons me again tonight, come sit, relax, quiet your thoughts and listen to your inner whispers.

Finding time to be with myself is very meaningful for me right now. Centering myself, focusing on my intention for my workshop this weekend.

Life is indeed good, and tomorrow is a new day.

Believe

Believe in Self.

Believe in your Truth.

Trust your Experience.

Trust in your Sacred.

Stand in your Majesty.

Know this is who you are.

Know that I am... I am all I need.

I am full of Potential.

I am Capable.

I am Brilliant.

I am a god force expressing myself through this body.

I am... just as you are...

Believe it.

Countdown to Parenting Workshop

4 more sleeps until the first day of my parenting workshop "Discovering Authentic Self and Consciously Parenting".

Louise says she and Paul have finished the editing and are in the process of completing the visuals for my CD. Copies are being sent to me as we speak!

I am getting together the final details and supplies. I still have a couple of spaces left (*wink*).

I know this workshop is one that is beneficial to ALL not just parents as it has so much to do with who we really are, authentic self and who we can become, unfolding self, unlimited potential. Recognizing our unconscious behaviors and asking the question... does this still serve me in my evolution of becoming my potential self? Owning the response and acting accordingly.

There is the perfect amount of people already registered and I am really looking forward to engaging with them.

I am also aware of this building excitement inside of me. Just who am I going to become after the workshop is all done? Who knows?

There are many interesting things happening over the next 30 days and it is a good time to be a WEL-Woman in the East Coast! More details for other events in later blogs. Stay tuned!

Tomorrow is a new day... life is good.

Matching the outside with the in

I'm beginning a journey to physical health today.

I have been very aware with how icky my body feels from carrying so much weight around with me.

I am creating a parallel blog that will have everything to do with WHOLE Health & Me, and in some way I think I will incorporate a weekly video journal... although I am not sure how / if I can do all of this on my own.

That blog will be separate from this one as I want to continue to dedicate this one to inner curiosities, inner growth, and what it means or could mean for others.

I am also not sure when my "parallel" blog will be live yet, but watch for it and know it's coming as soon as I allow myself to decloak that side of my self.

Be well.

Greater Reality

I’m still blown away each time I explore the definition of reality. I don’t think we ever stop to consider it. We go about living our lives just accepting reality is just us, and assuming it is the same for each of us.

So why not take the time to stop and consider… What is my personal definition? What is my reality? Ask a friend or family member the same question.

Dictionary.com definition of Reality:
1. The state or quality of being real.
2. Resemblance to what is real.
3. A real thing or fact.
4. Real things, facts, or events taken as a whole; state of affairs: the reality of the business world; vacationing to escape reality.
5. Philosophy.
a. something that exists independently of ideas concerning it.
b. something that exists independently of all other things and from which all other things derive.

Now consider a person with a disability; a woman in China; A man in New Zealand; a student in Rio de Janeiro.

Each person will have a different perspective, a different concept of what is reality for them. Not one of us has the same experience of reality because each of us is unique.

The population of our global community is approximately 6,586,804,171 people… this is how many different “realities” there are out there.

I do not have the same life experiences as my sister; therefore even though we were brought up together we did not have the same experiences shaping our realities. My reality is not hers.

Stop and listen… respect & learn from each others experiences/realities. Consider the possibilities.

What if we as a global community came to know this “Structure of Reality”*? We could no longer look at people in the same light; we could see the knowledge and wisdom in everyone from the street beggar to the Queen of England and everyone in between.. Just because you have no personal experience or knowledge of something does not make it less real.

If we all knew this as second nature I don’t believe there would be wars or intentional killings, we would simply know that we all can be right, believe what we believe; be a Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, Pagan, Atheist, whatever. And be concerned only with ourselves not with converting or conforming others to our views. Think about it… how many wars are happening in our world because someone is trying to impose their way of life on others?

If we could just accept other people’s views and our individual rights, the world would be a much different place.

Tomorrow is a new day… there is always more.

* Structure of Reality is a WEL-Systems Model

Getting Over Yourself

How many times in our lives do we remain silent?

How often do we think we “know” how someone will react if we approach them?

How many times do we allow ourselves not to go that route because we think we know the outcome?

How often are we selling ourselves short, limiting our own growth, allowing relationships to get stale… all because we doubt ourselves… doubt in our truth, doubt in our voice, doubt in our magnificence.

Get over yourself.

If you perceive someone as limiting you at work, are you going to be the victim?
If you perceive your relationship as hitting a rough spot, do you remain silent?
If you perceive others of turning away from you if you speak your truth, do you live a lie?

Get over yourself.

What I have come to realize in my life is that 95% of how I believed others would react to something I had to say, do or ask was in fact made up in my head. You don’t know how someone is going to act / react until you open your mouth to engage with them.

The majority of the time you have worried yourself sick thinking about saying something and if you actually gather up the courage to do it you are pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

What is the right thing to say?

Should I even bring that up?

What if they laugh?

What if they think I’m stupid?

What if he/she leaves me?

What if they take offence?

What if?

What if you don’t? You will never know. You will never grow. Things will never change.
What if you remain silent? People may not have seen what you saw; they won’t have the opportunity to make different choices.

Get over yourself.

By remaining silent about what is important to you, by allowing your fear the unknown and kept silent (not engage) you are limiting yourself.

By not asking for what you want others will never know and it will be 100 times harder to get it, don’t let the stories you tell yourself get in your way, people love to help other people… just ask.

It boils down to voice.

Being willing to speak authentically, about what is meaningful to you.

Being willing to take a breath and engage with the person you hold as having something you want or the keeper of that thing and let them know how you feel.

Being willing to be vulnerable, to say “I am nervous about asking you this and it has prevented me from approaching you in the past but…” I have seen this open up a whole different dynamic between two people. One who was always intimidated and the other who didn’t even know they were being perceived as being intimidating.

Being willing to accept the consequences and being resourceful with yourself, what ever the outcome may be. This is what I want in my life, nothing less, can you do that? If not I am happy to be on my own.

And if you don’t speak, nothing will change, except for inside of you when you become bitter, cynical, and depressed.

Get over yourself.

You are the only one who controls your life.

You are the only one who makes choices on your own behalf from moment to moment.

Own those choices.

Celebrate in the knowledge that they are your choices.

Take control of how you move through your world.

Live at Cause.

And live a full and meaningful life by your own design.
Tomorrow is a new day… there is always more.

Is it too late?

I read Anita's blog entry today and I began to think about how much I missed of Jessica's childhood and how much I made her miss out on the wonderment of it all.

When Jessica was 2 yrs old I was a single mother, I was 21 years old. I can remember resenting being a single mother so much that it ate away at me.

I was so preoccupied with how hard it was to be home all day long with a child, to not have money, and to not have the luxury of being able to go out with my friends without my child... I was so busy worrying about being the sole caretaker that I forgot to enjoy my child.

Jessica learned from a very early age to grow up quickly. She always had to take on more than your average child. I was so concerned with what other people thought of me and how I was doing things that I spent alot of my time at home stressed out, depressed and trying to get things in order. Try doing this with a 2 yr old... not an easy task so I had her do chores with me.

Being 2 and helping with the dishes or sweeping the floors can be a fun thing, but when you are 2 with an adult who is stressed or depressed the feelings associated with these tasks are not ones of fun.

I was also preoccupied with playing "the game". I wanted to hurt Mike and the only way I could was with Jessica. I tried to make him feel guilty for not spending time with her. At times I would say she couldn't stay over when he wanted her too. There were even times I would have Jessica talk to him on the phone and say she wanted to see him. I was angry at him for leaving and was blind to what I was doing to our daughter in the process.

I also was lonely. For those who know me and know my past you can understand where this is coming from. I always felt a hole in myself. I felt unworthy. I felt unlovable. I felt isolated. I felt incomplete. So when another "man" came along and paid me compliments I was preoccupied with him, not my daughter.

During an almost 5 year period Jessica learned to rely on herself. She was used to a mother who was there but not fully there. She was used to pitching in to keep house. She was used to comforting and consoling her mother.

When Jessica was 7 yrs old, Mike and I got back together. Both more "mature" however I for one was still lost (i.e. felt like I was missing something, not whole).

Another 3 years go by. We have another baby girl, I am trying to be a caretaker, a mother, a disciplinarian, a bread winner, a volunteer, etc.

Life is stressful, life is serious, we don't ever have money or time for fun.

And then I take a breath, I started taking course, I discovered who I am and who I can become, I learned to look at my whole life and my children for the brilliant perfect beings they were and can be again (after they can get rid of the crap I detailed above).

I looked at my daughter and saw she is no longer a little girl, she is a beautiful young woman who is just beginning to explore some Independence, who makes fantastic decisions, who is helpful and caring, to her friends, children, animals, and sometimes even her parents!

Time has gotten away from me. From us, I see her at 11 yrs old, so grown up, and I want to tell her to stop.

WAIT! I'm sorry I encouraged you to grow up so fast, don't forget you are still a child, don't forget to have fun.

Let's run, let's skip, let's laugh, let's play.

But she is almost a teenager and that just isn't cool do do with your mom anymore. I've missed the boat.

Did I cause her to totally forget how to be a child by my parenting style? Is it too late?

I believe it is never too late. As I have changed the way I move through the world this past year, I began to change how I engage with my kids, and I am seeing a difference.

My daughter has a voice, she is no longer afraid to speak up when she feels she has to. She is laughing more, especially this past month with Mike on board. She is exploring more, she is choosing more, she is fantastic.

Maybe one day she will not worry so much about what other people think and maybe one day she will shock me and hold my hand in public... (GASP!!)

It is never too late to be there for your child... to listen to his or her concerns... to allow them to have a temper tantrum, to witness their anger or tears and not dismiss that. To allow them to be exactly who they are in the moment it happens.

Life is good, there is always more.