It was recently suggested to me by a reader of this blog that I check out some sites and blogs dedicated to writing. I heard the *ding!* in my head. Yes. Yes, I should do that. Why haven't I done much of that? Probably because time is my nemesis. So many ideas, so little time.
So I did. To the internet! I didn't get far. I immediately stumbled upon a blog prompt called the A to Z challenge. 26 blog posts with the letters of the alphabet as inspiration. Brilliant! I love it. It was supposed to start April 1st. Since I can't turn back time (can you imagine the possibilities?!), today shall be "A" day.
Although I'm not often at a loss for words, I do struggle with what to actually write when blogging. These prompts help to inspire creativity and thinking outside the box. Determining what to write publicly versus what to keep in my private journal is sometimes a consideration. Choosing what to write about and thinking about the audience for which I write is more of a genre specific challenge, but one that usually only comes with writing articles for specific publications. Then there are the topics swimming in my head that need some time to grow and gel before I actually put fingers to keyboard and share them with you.
After a bit of contemplation and listening to my intuitive guidance, the 'assignment' for me is to take the A to Z challenge and make it specific to the metaphysical and spiritual pursuits I am so drawn to. It will speak to where I am, where I've been and where I am going in my life. I think it will be a learning experience not only for myself but for those who are drawn to read the entries. Nothing is by accident. Everything happens with reason and there is a message for each of us in what we choose or opt not to choose.
The fact I am SO strongly drawn to this challenge is a message for me. I know not exactly why or where it will lead, but I do look forward to finding out. I hope you will enjoy the journey with me. I look forward to your thoughts and comments along the way.
Monday, April 15, 2013
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Spotlight on Safety: Protect their noggin!
A blog post I wrote for the Worcester Telegram and Gazette's MassMoms Blog:
March is Brain Injury Awareness month. Did you know that in
the United States, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the leading cause of death
and disability in children? Those at greatest risk are children 0-4 and teens
15-19. It is estimated that 564,000 children every year suffer a TBI that
requires a visit to the ER. 62,000 suffer severe injuries that require
hospitalization. Approximately 2,685 children die as a result of TBI each year.
What is a traumatic brain injury? It is any blow to the head that results in a disruption of brain function. Common causes are a bump on the head, falls, car accidents, shaken baby syndrome and sport injuries. They can happen to anyone, anywhere and anytime. A common myth is that a concussion is not a brain injury. It is!
Because our brains are inside of our bodies, we cannot see when there is an injury from the outside. Bruises, cuts and swelling on the head give us a clue that there may be an injury to the brain, but you can have a TBI without any external signs of an injury. Our skull bones do a great job of protecting our brain, but injuries can and do occur. Often times, we have to rely on the symptoms of a brain injury to diagnose one. Sometimes they are obvious and immediate, other times they are subtle and develop over time. Being a keen observer can make the difference between life and permanent disability or death when it comes to a TBI.
In children, brain injury is especially concerning because their brains are still developing and vulnerable to injury. They also cannot always express what they are feeling or parents are unaware of what the signs of a brain injury are, so diagnosis can be a challenge.
Symptoms of a brain injury include nausea or vomiting, memory deficits, headaches, changes in balance, coordination and muscle tone or strength, fatigue or sleepiness, decreased attention, concentration, and ability to think, impaired judgment or impairments in vision, reading and writing. Some emotional changes might be mood swings, anxiety and depression, a lack of motivation, difficulty controlling emotions or self-esteem changes. In children, the effects of a brain injury are often long lasting and evident in school and in social situations for a long time after the injury. Some parents may think it’s just their child’s personality, but any change is cause for concern if there has been an injury to the head, no matter how minor it might have seemed.
Because even a seemingly minor fall or injury could result in a concussion or brain injury, it’s best to always call your pediatrician or take your child to the emergency room if your child sustains any bump or injury to their head. Close observation for any change in their physical, cognitive, social or emotional state should always happen for at least 24 hours after the injury. After an injury to the head or brain, it can take time, from minutes to hours for the effects of the injury to become evident. A child can seem fine immediately after the injury happens but have swelling or bleeding in the brain that you can’t see and over time, as it becomes worse, they can become very impaired or even die, which is why medical attention and close observation are necessary.
There are many things you can do to protect your child from a head or brain injury. Child proofing your home early and thoroughly is a great first step. Use window guards, gates at the top and bottom of stairways, door alarms or locks and be sure all furniture and TV’s are secured to the wall. Make sure your child is in a proper car or booster seat and with a 5 point harness and keep them rear facing for as long as possible. Insist your child always wear a helmet from their very first time when riding or using anything with wheels (bicycles, scooters, ride on toys, skates, etc.) and for all winter sports including sledding in the yard. If your child plays a sport, be sure they use all the proper protective equipment including head gear and check it for appropriate size and fit.
All parents, coaches and anyone who cares for your child should know CPR and First Aid and know where the nearest AED is. If you have not taken a formal CPR or First Aid class, or have not taken one in the past 5 years, it should be on your to do list for the next month! Although prevention is the best medicine, knowing how to treat an injury or what to do should your child stop breathing could save their life.
For additional information visit the Brain Injury Association of America/
What is a traumatic brain injury? It is any blow to the head that results in a disruption of brain function. Common causes are a bump on the head, falls, car accidents, shaken baby syndrome and sport injuries. They can happen to anyone, anywhere and anytime. A common myth is that a concussion is not a brain injury. It is!
Because our brains are inside of our bodies, we cannot see when there is an injury from the outside. Bruises, cuts and swelling on the head give us a clue that there may be an injury to the brain, but you can have a TBI without any external signs of an injury. Our skull bones do a great job of protecting our brain, but injuries can and do occur. Often times, we have to rely on the symptoms of a brain injury to diagnose one. Sometimes they are obvious and immediate, other times they are subtle and develop over time. Being a keen observer can make the difference between life and permanent disability or death when it comes to a TBI.
In children, brain injury is especially concerning because their brains are still developing and vulnerable to injury. They also cannot always express what they are feeling or parents are unaware of what the signs of a brain injury are, so diagnosis can be a challenge.
Symptoms of a brain injury include nausea or vomiting, memory deficits, headaches, changes in balance, coordination and muscle tone or strength, fatigue or sleepiness, decreased attention, concentration, and ability to think, impaired judgment or impairments in vision, reading and writing. Some emotional changes might be mood swings, anxiety and depression, a lack of motivation, difficulty controlling emotions or self-esteem changes. In children, the effects of a brain injury are often long lasting and evident in school and in social situations for a long time after the injury. Some parents may think it’s just their child’s personality, but any change is cause for concern if there has been an injury to the head, no matter how minor it might have seemed.
Because even a seemingly minor fall or injury could result in a concussion or brain injury, it’s best to always call your pediatrician or take your child to the emergency room if your child sustains any bump or injury to their head. Close observation for any change in their physical, cognitive, social or emotional state should always happen for at least 24 hours after the injury. After an injury to the head or brain, it can take time, from minutes to hours for the effects of the injury to become evident. A child can seem fine immediately after the injury happens but have swelling or bleeding in the brain that you can’t see and over time, as it becomes worse, they can become very impaired or even die, which is why medical attention and close observation are necessary.
There are many things you can do to protect your child from a head or brain injury. Child proofing your home early and thoroughly is a great first step. Use window guards, gates at the top and bottom of stairways, door alarms or locks and be sure all furniture and TV’s are secured to the wall. Make sure your child is in a proper car or booster seat and with a 5 point harness and keep them rear facing for as long as possible. Insist your child always wear a helmet from their very first time when riding or using anything with wheels (bicycles, scooters, ride on toys, skates, etc.) and for all winter sports including sledding in the yard. If your child plays a sport, be sure they use all the proper protective equipment including head gear and check it for appropriate size and fit.
All parents, coaches and anyone who cares for your child should know CPR and First Aid and know where the nearest AED is. If you have not taken a formal CPR or First Aid class, or have not taken one in the past 5 years, it should be on your to do list for the next month! Although prevention is the best medicine, knowing how to treat an injury or what to do should your child stop breathing could save their life.
For additional information visit the Brain Injury Association of America/
Spotlight on Safety: Youth Sports Safety
A blog post I wrote for the Worcester Telegram and Gazette's MassMoms Blog:
Ah, springtime! The snow is almost gone! The birds are singing. The kids can finally play outside again! Spring sports are underway. As we emerge from our winter hibernation or transition from winter to spring activities and sports, we need to pause to take action to keep our kids safe both on and off the sport field or court.
April is youth sports safety month. According to Safe Kids, 3.5 million kids every year suffer injuries while playing an organized sport in the U.S. Two out of three of sport related injuries treated in emergency rooms are for children. That means one out of three are for adults, so parents who play organized sports or weekend warriors, you are not immune!
While most of the injuries are minor sprains and strains, broken bones and heat related injuries like heat exhaustion and heat stroke also occur. More serious injuries, like a traumatic brain injury, most commonly in the form of a concussion, related to sports or recreational injuries occur in two out of five children. Repeated injuries, even minor ones, can have a serious impact not only in the now, but later in life.
Surprisingly, the majority of sports related injuries to children occur during practices, not games! This is, in part, because parents and sometimes coaches, especially volunteer parent coaches, do not enforce the same safety rules and precautions for practices as they do for games. Some are just plain unaware of the potential for injury. Injuries from a collision with another player happen more often in team sports, but the injuries to those who play individual sports are often more severe. The four sports associated the most injuries to muscles and bones are roller sports, football, basketball and bicycling. That does not mean that injuries don’t happen in other sports, they do!
Concussion awareness and prevention is an important part of sports safety. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury. Most concussions occur without the loss of consciousness and need to be taken very seriously. I recently wrote a Spotlight on Safety piece about Traumatic Brain Injury, you may wish to refer to it as an adjunct to this one. For kids 8-13, ice hockey and football resulted in the highest rates of concussion. For kids 14 and older, according to Safe Kids, the top 5 sports for concussion related injuries are cycling, football, baseball and softball, basketball, and those using skateboards or scooters. Along gender lines, football carries the greatest risk for males and basketball and softball for females. Overall, females have a higher rate of concussion! For a great resource on concussions and sports check out the CDC publication, Heads Up! Share it with your child’s youth sports coaches and parents.
Overuse injuries are also common in kids, especially those who play highly competitive sports or ore than one sport in the same season. Kids are still growing and their bodies need a chance to recover. They need rest days and a balance of intense and lighter workouts or practices. Repetitive strain and overuse injuries can be common, especially when proper conditioning and stretching are not taught or followed. Warming up and cooling down are important tenets of injury prevention. Being properly hydrated and fueled before and after practices and games is also important. Of course, understanding the rules of the game and following them is also important.
There are simple things you can do to protect your kids and decrease the risk of injury from both recreational activities, like playing on the swing set in the yard or riding their bike, and from organized sports at any level.
~ Be sure they always wear proper equipment and understand why this is important. This includes appropriate footwear, helmets and any other protective gear required. Be sure it fits properly. Lead by example. You should wear your helmet and protective gear, too! Check it often and replace when necessary. It won’t do it’s job if it’s ill-fitting or broken. Be careful with hand-me-down sporting equipment and protective gear.
~ Be sure the equipment is in good repair. Check it periodically. Check their ride on toys and bicycles at the beginning of the season and periodically. Inspect play structures and outdoor play equipment. Sandbag soccer goals so they can’t tip over.
~Ask the coaches what training they have received for prevention of sport related injury. Have they undergone concussion training? Are they certified in CPR and First Aid? They should be. Do they have a first aid kit with them at all times? Do you? Do the coaches have contact information for you should your child sustain an injury and they have to contact you immediately? Is there an AED on site and accessible for practices and games?
~Observe the coaches. Do they enforce use of protective equipment? Do they rest players who are injured or fatigued even if the child wants to keep playing? Do they remind kids to drink frequently and allow them a quick energy snack before, during or after practices and games if needed to keep their energy and blood sugar up and where it needs to be?
~Be sure kids are taught how to warm up, stretch, and cool down. Help them understand the importance of conditioning and pacing themselves. Make sure they get at least one day off a week to rest when playing organized and competitive sports. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends two to three months off of a year round sport to prevent burnout and injuries.
Like so many things in life, awareness and prevention are the key. We must remember that kids are kids! They are not just small adults. They are still growing, and thus, vulnerable to injury and at risk for injuries that can have a life-long impact. They also lack the awareness and insight we have as adults to perceive unsafe situations and to understand why the cumbersome safety equipment is so important. Many kids think they are invincible! Keeping our kids safe and healthy is easier when we teach them proper care of themselves and how to be safe both in recreational and competitive play. Good habits now, lead to good habits always. Injuries they sustain as a child can have significant and lasting impact on them later in life, sometimes in the form of a lifelong disability.
Spring has sprung! Now lets all get outside and play! Safely, of course!
Spotlight on Safety: Windows!
A post I wrote for the Worcester Telegram and Gazette's MassMoms blog:
With spring in full swing, one of the things we do with great joy is open the windows for the first time in months to let in that glorious fresh air! What many parents do not think of, is that when they open those windows, they also create an opportunity for falls and injury to their child. This is a great time of year to do an annual household safety check. The focus for this weekend should be on window safety.
April 7-13th is National Window Safety Week. Most window falls happen in the spring and summer months, because the weather is generally nicer. In a report from 2011 (the most recent statistic I could find) estimated 14 children are treated in emergency rooms every day from a window fall in the U.S. One out of every four children injured had to be hospitalized for their injuries. The most common injuries were soft tissue injuries, broken bones and head and brain injuries. The younger the child and the higher the window the child fell from, the greater the injury. Children who live in urban areas, high rise buildings and in low income neighborhoods seem to be at the greatest risk, but ANY child can fall out of ANY window that is not protected.
Most children who fall out of windows do so by climbing on something that is in front of or near the window, usually a piece of furniture, and accidentally fall against the screen, which cannot hold their weight. Some simply push on the screen causing it to fall, and then in looking out the window, fall. Remember, kids, especially toddlers, are top heavy! Others fall as a result of horseplay near open windows or even an innocent game of hide and seek, unaware that the screen, and consequently they, can fall out. The higher the window and the harder the surface the child lands on, generally the more serious the injury.
There are simple things that can be done to prevent a window fall. First of all, know that screens, no matter how secure they seem, are not strong enough to prevent a child from falling out of a window. It is also important to realize that a child does not have to fall far or onto concrete to suffer a life threatening injury. Any fall has the potential to cause serious injury or death.
While it is important to take action to prevent an accidental fall out of a window, you must also be sure whatever is used is quickly and easily overcome by an adult in the case of a fire. Nailing into the frame is a quick fix, but not easily overcome in the event of a fire and therefore, not recommended. The same can be said for most do-it-yourself guards. Window guards, like the ones mentioned below, are perfect for this as children lack the dexterity to release them but an adult easily can. In cities where the use of window guards in high rise apartment style buildings is mandatory, window fall injuries decreased dramatically. They work.
To prevent window falls:
Move all furniture away from windows
Do not place items on window sills
If possible, only open windows from the top when children are very young
If windows are open from the bottom, they should open no more than 4 inches.
Use window guards like Guardian Angel Window Guards or KidCo Mesh Window Guards on all second story and higher windows. Window stops are not all created equal. Avoid suction cup versions or wedge window stoppers as they tend to fail and can create a false sense of security
Never use corded shades or blinds (also pose a strangulation hazard) as they may entice a child to climb to release them
Teach older children the dangers of going in and out of windows or jumping out of windows for ‘fun’. Not only could it be unsafe for them, but younger children imitate older children
When windows are closed, make sure they are locked with the mechanism that is built in
Consider planting shrubs or plants under windows, as they can potentially ‘soften’ the fall, should it occur. This should be done in conjunction with the above noted steps, not as a stand alone preventative measure.
Should your child become a victim of a fall, for any reason, it’s important that you do not move them if they appear seriously injured, are not moving on their own or are unconscious. You could cause further injury. Call 911 and let the trained medical professionals safely and properly move the child and transport them to the hospital. If you have never taken a first aid class or a CPR class, this is a good time to remind you everyone should know these important potentially life saving skills.
As with all things, prevention is key. A few dollars and a bit of time can make your home and your child safer!
Humor and hospice
I had a lovely conversation yesterday with my 86 year-old grandmother. She called to thank me for the little care package I sent her. I sent her a Willow Tree 'Tree Angel' that says, "May you find strength, beauty and peace in each day", a coaster that said something to the effect of "Ever have a thought and then forget where you put it?" and an insulated plastic tumbler with a straw that said 'Nana' all over it in varying sizes and colors. I also included a silly card and a drawing from my youngest son. He drew a nice picture of birds on a sunny day.
Now those things may seem rather ordinary to you. However, Gram lives in Florida and I in Massachusetts. I last saw her at my wedding in September, it was on her birthday. She was just admitted to hospice after the discovery of a large tumor in her lung. She did not want it worked up or treated. I don't blame her one bit. She is intermittently confused, often short of breath and of course, sleepy more often than not. The diagnosis was an incidental one and a surprise only a few weeks ago. She is doing fairly well all things considered.
Our family has a long history with humor. The package was meant to be a nice surprise. It was a combination of the serious acknowledgment of her situation and a shout out to her fear and religious beliefs in the form of the angel. It was poking fun at her memory loss with the coaster and with the card. It was a gift from her great-grandchildren in the cup, with the hope and wish that each time she uses it, she will remember all of them and know she is loved and will be missed when it's her time to transition to the next place.
We had a nice chat. She was a bit short of breath but she sounded chipper. She told me about the priest that came to see her and it made her feel better. She gave her confessions. "Good grief! How long did THAT take?!", I asked. She mentioned she asked if her name was on 'the list' to get in to Heaven. She said he looked and said not yet. She asked him to look under her maiden name. Nope, not there. I cracked up. She said she was looking forward to seeing Meghan. I cautioned her, "You know, you'll have your hearing back in Heaven. You DO remember how loud she was, right?" I reminded her she'd have to wade through all the kitties she's collected over her past 8 years flying with the angels. I told her she'd better rest up, Meghan would keep her very, very busy. She laughed.
She told me about her experience with hospice so far. She is singing their praises. She is loving it and grappling with the fact they are there because she is dying, yet gosh, it's so nice to have them. They are, of course, amazing and do the most amazing of work. She feels so loved, supported and taken care of. Of course they care for her medically. It's the social and emotional care that always makes the hospice difference. They help her address her fears and wade through the difficult conversations and decisions. They are on call 24/7/365. They keep her comfortable. They provide everything she could possibly need from medications and equipment to audio books and even someone to help her write her memories and life story down for her! She loves the attention and TLC. Her children welcome and receive much needed support as well. Given I'm so far away, it gives me peace of mind, too.
She tires quickly. She said goodbye. I told her I'd call again, perhaps today. This time, my questions will be more serious. Will she bring Meggie some messages from us? What does she want her death day to be like? What is she looking forward to? What is she afraid of? What does she want now? Does she want me to visit? Does she want to Skype with the kids? Does she want a party? What color socks does she want to be wearing? Polka dots perhaps? :-) After she's cremated, would she object to her ashes being in maracas so we can 'play' her? What will her sign to us be that she is near when she is in the next place? I bet it will be in the form of people saying "What?" all the time since she doesn't hear most of what you say!! Or maybe, cats constantly coughing up fur balls...
For my next care package: cat food! Why, you ask? She has always had a funny cough thing that she does. It's worse now because of the tumor and her breathing is getting harder. She is coughing more. I've always teased her about her 'fur ball'. I decided I am going to send her a little bag of hairball control cat food. I'll tell her she can crush it up in applesauce. It might just do the trick! :-)
If there is one thing my family does well, it's humor. It's such a gift to have been raised in a family that values humor and isn't afraid to use it. There is of course a time and place and tasteful humor can make everything 'better' and more fun. It helps one through the difficult moments. It makes you laugh.
It's true you know. Laughter really is the best medicine. It may not cure you, but it can certainly make your burden a wee bit lighter, even if only for a little while.
Maybe I should send her a pair of angel wings so she can practice. Maybe that will help her get on the list...
Now those things may seem rather ordinary to you. However, Gram lives in Florida and I in Massachusetts. I last saw her at my wedding in September, it was on her birthday. She was just admitted to hospice after the discovery of a large tumor in her lung. She did not want it worked up or treated. I don't blame her one bit. She is intermittently confused, often short of breath and of course, sleepy more often than not. The diagnosis was an incidental one and a surprise only a few weeks ago. She is doing fairly well all things considered.
Our family has a long history with humor. The package was meant to be a nice surprise. It was a combination of the serious acknowledgment of her situation and a shout out to her fear and religious beliefs in the form of the angel. It was poking fun at her memory loss with the coaster and with the card. It was a gift from her great-grandchildren in the cup, with the hope and wish that each time she uses it, she will remember all of them and know she is loved and will be missed when it's her time to transition to the next place.
We had a nice chat. She was a bit short of breath but she sounded chipper. She told me about the priest that came to see her and it made her feel better. She gave her confessions. "Good grief! How long did THAT take?!", I asked. She mentioned she asked if her name was on 'the list' to get in to Heaven. She said he looked and said not yet. She asked him to look under her maiden name. Nope, not there. I cracked up. She said she was looking forward to seeing Meghan. I cautioned her, "You know, you'll have your hearing back in Heaven. You DO remember how loud she was, right?" I reminded her she'd have to wade through all the kitties she's collected over her past 8 years flying with the angels. I told her she'd better rest up, Meghan would keep her very, very busy. She laughed.
She told me about her experience with hospice so far. She is singing their praises. She is loving it and grappling with the fact they are there because she is dying, yet gosh, it's so nice to have them. They are, of course, amazing and do the most amazing of work. She feels so loved, supported and taken care of. Of course they care for her medically. It's the social and emotional care that always makes the hospice difference. They help her address her fears and wade through the difficult conversations and decisions. They are on call 24/7/365. They keep her comfortable. They provide everything she could possibly need from medications and equipment to audio books and even someone to help her write her memories and life story down for her! She loves the attention and TLC. Her children welcome and receive much needed support as well. Given I'm so far away, it gives me peace of mind, too.
She tires quickly. She said goodbye. I told her I'd call again, perhaps today. This time, my questions will be more serious. Will she bring Meggie some messages from us? What does she want her death day to be like? What is she looking forward to? What is she afraid of? What does she want now? Does she want me to visit? Does she want to Skype with the kids? Does she want a party? What color socks does she want to be wearing? Polka dots perhaps? :-) After she's cremated, would she object to her ashes being in maracas so we can 'play' her? What will her sign to us be that she is near when she is in the next place? I bet it will be in the form of people saying "What?" all the time since she doesn't hear most of what you say!! Or maybe, cats constantly coughing up fur balls...
For my next care package: cat food! Why, you ask? She has always had a funny cough thing that she does. It's worse now because of the tumor and her breathing is getting harder. She is coughing more. I've always teased her about her 'fur ball'. I decided I am going to send her a little bag of hairball control cat food. I'll tell her she can crush it up in applesauce. It might just do the trick! :-)
If there is one thing my family does well, it's humor. It's such a gift to have been raised in a family that values humor and isn't afraid to use it. There is of course a time and place and tasteful humor can make everything 'better' and more fun. It helps one through the difficult moments. It makes you laugh.
It's true you know. Laughter really is the best medicine. It may not cure you, but it can certainly make your burden a wee bit lighter, even if only for a little while.
Maybe I should send her a pair of angel wings so she can practice. Maybe that will help her get on the list...
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Billboard wisdom
"If you die today... Heaven or Hell?"
This was the message I saw on a local billboard yesterday. It had a typically 'heavenly' image behind the word Heaven and of course, fire behind the word Hell.
I laughed out loud. I don't know who paid to have the billboard there, but simple deductive reasoning would tell me it was some religious organization. One that clearly has a lot of money to spend on billboard advertising. It doesn't work so well, since I don't know what organization it is. :-)
I did find it thought provoking, however. Although probably not in the way the message intended. My immediate thought was, or maybe, Nirvana, Peace or Enlightenment! Then, I thought with my sense of humor. REST! I'll finally get to rest. That's what I would get if I died today!
As I thought about it on the rest of my drive, I wondered why there is such a widely accepted premise that there are only two options when we die. We either go to 'heaven' or we go to 'hell'. Yes, I understand the biblical stories and long standing beliefs of various religions. What none of us know for sure is where we *really* go when we die. The only thing for certain is our physical bodies cease to operate in a way that is compatible with life on earth. Our heart stops. We stop breathing. Our organs die.
As for what happens to our soul or spirit, there are many differing beliefs. What you believe doesn't matter to me. Nor should what I believe, matter to you. All that really matters is what we believe on a personal level.
What I have an issue with is that so many people live their lives on this earth, in this moment, because they fear 'hell' and want to get into 'heaven'. When instead, it is at least my personal belief, that we should be living this life for the greater good of ourselves and all those we share this earthly existence with. It shouldn't be one lived in fear. It shouldn't be one where we fight about who is right or wrong in what they believe. It shouldn't be self-serving with the intent to be at the front of the line at the so called 'pearly gates", nor should it be judgmental that another person's choices somehow dictate where they go when they die.
Like everything else in life, we should respect each person's choices. We should treat others the way we want to be treated. We should choose love, not fear.
The only thing we can all be certain of is that we will all die. Someday. Somehow. We may not know when, why or how, but it will happen. It could be today. It happens every day. Someone dies when we least expect it. What if it's you or someone you love?
I'd rather the billboard said, "If you die today, are you prepared?"
Would you die happy? Would you have any regrets? Does your family know what you want them to know? Your friends? Are there people you'd want to make amends with before you die? Things you want to do? Things you should do, like that health care proxy, power of attorney or will? What about your funeral/memorial service? Who do you want with you? Who don't you want with you?
THOSE are the questions we should be addressing. Why wait until someone is quite literally on their death bed. Death doesn't always come with a warning label. S*it happens. Every. Single. Day. Heaven or hell is really not what it's about. It's about the here and now. It's about the living like today could be your last, not fearing what happens when that last day actually comes.
So, are you ready? What does your billboard say?
This was the message I saw on a local billboard yesterday. It had a typically 'heavenly' image behind the word Heaven and of course, fire behind the word Hell.
I laughed out loud. I don't know who paid to have the billboard there, but simple deductive reasoning would tell me it was some religious organization. One that clearly has a lot of money to spend on billboard advertising. It doesn't work so well, since I don't know what organization it is. :-)
I did find it thought provoking, however. Although probably not in the way the message intended. My immediate thought was, or maybe, Nirvana, Peace or Enlightenment! Then, I thought with my sense of humor. REST! I'll finally get to rest. That's what I would get if I died today!
As I thought about it on the rest of my drive, I wondered why there is such a widely accepted premise that there are only two options when we die. We either go to 'heaven' or we go to 'hell'. Yes, I understand the biblical stories and long standing beliefs of various religions. What none of us know for sure is where we *really* go when we die. The only thing for certain is our physical bodies cease to operate in a way that is compatible with life on earth. Our heart stops. We stop breathing. Our organs die.
As for what happens to our soul or spirit, there are many differing beliefs. What you believe doesn't matter to me. Nor should what I believe, matter to you. All that really matters is what we believe on a personal level.
What I have an issue with is that so many people live their lives on this earth, in this moment, because they fear 'hell' and want to get into 'heaven'. When instead, it is at least my personal belief, that we should be living this life for the greater good of ourselves and all those we share this earthly existence with. It shouldn't be one lived in fear. It shouldn't be one where we fight about who is right or wrong in what they believe. It shouldn't be self-serving with the intent to be at the front of the line at the so called 'pearly gates", nor should it be judgmental that another person's choices somehow dictate where they go when they die.
Like everything else in life, we should respect each person's choices. We should treat others the way we want to be treated. We should choose love, not fear.
The only thing we can all be certain of is that we will all die. Someday. Somehow. We may not know when, why or how, but it will happen. It could be today. It happens every day. Someone dies when we least expect it. What if it's you or someone you love?
I'd rather the billboard said, "If you die today, are you prepared?"
Would you die happy? Would you have any regrets? Does your family know what you want them to know? Your friends? Are there people you'd want to make amends with before you die? Things you want to do? Things you should do, like that health care proxy, power of attorney or will? What about your funeral/memorial service? Who do you want with you? Who don't you want with you?
THOSE are the questions we should be addressing. Why wait until someone is quite literally on their death bed. Death doesn't always come with a warning label. S*it happens. Every. Single. Day. Heaven or hell is really not what it's about. It's about the here and now. It's about the living like today could be your last, not fearing what happens when that last day actually comes.
So, are you ready? What does your billboard say?
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Do you get the message?
"The two most important days of your life are the day you are born... and the day you find out why." ~Mark Twain
I came across this post on Facebook early this morning and it really resonated with me. I shared it. Apparently, it resonates with others, too. So I ask you, have you found out why you were born yet? Do you think you know? Do you have no idea? Have you ever looked at the things that have happened in your life and wondered why? Was there a lesson in all of it and was it your lesson or someone else's you were a part of? Both?
I've been pondering this all day. Why am I here? What is my purpose in THIS lifetime? Is there such a thing as karma? Because if there is, I must have done some seriously nasty stuff last time around to warrant some of the experiences I've had this time. Or did I? Am I here to learn or to teach? Both? Neither?
Then, this afternoon, this lovely pearl of wisdom pops up in my Facebook feed. "Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and to give your whole heart and soul to it" ~ Buddha
Things that make you go hmmmmm.
I think I know what my purpose is. The thing is, I can't help put wonder why. Why me? Then, if I listen to that little voice inside, I know the answer to that, too.
I could wallow in the misery I've encountered in life. Not the least of which is the death of a child, and a contentious divorce with numerous losses of friends as collateral damage. There are other challenges, of course, that many of us have. People often say it's unfair. That I'm strong. That it's not my fault.
What if it is fair (in a spiritual, karma balancing, life purpose way)? What if it IS my fault, but not in a bad way, and instead, in a exactly the way it was supposed to happen way? What if what I always say is true? It's not about strength, it's about love. It's always about love.
There are some wonderful things in life, too. My friends, my family, the amazing people I've met along the way, especially in my work as a PT and in my pursuits of spiritual and metaphysical growth. The greatest gifts, of course, are my children and the love of my life. I am blessed with health, a good job, shelter, food, and love. What more could one want for? The cat is now standing on the desk staring at me as if to remind me I am also blessed with two fur babies.
The thing is, it is in those very tragic and challenging circumstances, as well as in the amazingly wonderful ones, that the answer lies. Meggie's death. My divorce and the reasons that led to it. The challenges of my ADD teenage son. The sensitivity of Meghan's twin. The unconditional love and support of my current husband. Every single one of those critical events in my life have led me not only to where I am, but to who I am supposed to be. I couldn't have done it without any of them.
Had it not been for those things, I would not have learned the very important life lessons I have. I would not have the insight, confidence or awareness that I do now. I would not be as in tune to my intuition, my higher self and the energy of those around me. I would not have found the *real* Kimberly.
So, what is my life purpose? What do you think? I'm curious what you'd say. Before you read further, stop and ponder that. Maybe you have known me for a long time. Maybe this is the first encounter you've had with me. What's your 'read'? Feel free to share it in the comments below.
What do I think my life purpose is? I know what it is. At least in part. It is to share what I've learned. It is to teach. It is about Meghan's hope. To speak it, write it and share it. It goes beyond the safety piece, and into the spiritual journey her death and all that happened before and since has led me on. It is to share how I have managed the tragedy of her loss not only for myself, but for my family, and turned it into something for the greater good. It is to save lives, through Meghan's legacy. It is to comfort others who have had similar losses and give them hope for the future. It is to share love and light. It is manifesting beautifully now in writing, social media, and speaking opportunities and through the classes I offer. The Universe is screaming the time is now.
I just need to find the confidence to commit to the *big* piece of it... the part where I devote my whole heart and soul to it. If only I could...OK, I know I can, the problem is I have real worldly responsibilities like a house, a job and kids to raise. The Universe says it will provide. Must. Learn. Trust. Let go and let (spirit) lead the way. Time to manifest abundance!
There are two lessons I am working very hard on right now that are related. They are the most difficult lessons to integrate. I *know* what I must do but it is really, really difficult. I know they are necessary to move forward.
I get the message. Sometimes getting the message and doing what it tells you to are two different things.
Thankfully, life is a journey. Steps along a path. I see where the path is leading. How fast I get there is up to me. The thing is, I am feeling the need to run for the first time. Literally and figuratively.
I'm listening, Universe. Keep it coming.
What is your life purpose? Are you getting the message? Are you listening to it?
I came across this post on Facebook early this morning and it really resonated with me. I shared it. Apparently, it resonates with others, too. So I ask you, have you found out why you were born yet? Do you think you know? Do you have no idea? Have you ever looked at the things that have happened in your life and wondered why? Was there a lesson in all of it and was it your lesson or someone else's you were a part of? Both?
I've been pondering this all day. Why am I here? What is my purpose in THIS lifetime? Is there such a thing as karma? Because if there is, I must have done some seriously nasty stuff last time around to warrant some of the experiences I've had this time. Or did I? Am I here to learn or to teach? Both? Neither?
Then, this afternoon, this lovely pearl of wisdom pops up in my Facebook feed. "Your purpose in life is to find your purpose and to give your whole heart and soul to it" ~ Buddha
Things that make you go hmmmmm.
I think I know what my purpose is. The thing is, I can't help put wonder why. Why me? Then, if I listen to that little voice inside, I know the answer to that, too.
I could wallow in the misery I've encountered in life. Not the least of which is the death of a child, and a contentious divorce with numerous losses of friends as collateral damage. There are other challenges, of course, that many of us have. People often say it's unfair. That I'm strong. That it's not my fault.
What if it is fair (in a spiritual, karma balancing, life purpose way)? What if it IS my fault, but not in a bad way, and instead, in a exactly the way it was supposed to happen way? What if what I always say is true? It's not about strength, it's about love. It's always about love.
There are some wonderful things in life, too. My friends, my family, the amazing people I've met along the way, especially in my work as a PT and in my pursuits of spiritual and metaphysical growth. The greatest gifts, of course, are my children and the love of my life. I am blessed with health, a good job, shelter, food, and love. What more could one want for? The cat is now standing on the desk staring at me as if to remind me I am also blessed with two fur babies.
The thing is, it is in those very tragic and challenging circumstances, as well as in the amazingly wonderful ones, that the answer lies. Meggie's death. My divorce and the reasons that led to it. The challenges of my ADD teenage son. The sensitivity of Meghan's twin. The unconditional love and support of my current husband. Every single one of those critical events in my life have led me not only to where I am, but to who I am supposed to be. I couldn't have done it without any of them.
Had it not been for those things, I would not have learned the very important life lessons I have. I would not have the insight, confidence or awareness that I do now. I would not be as in tune to my intuition, my higher self and the energy of those around me. I would not have found the *real* Kimberly.
So, what is my life purpose? What do you think? I'm curious what you'd say. Before you read further, stop and ponder that. Maybe you have known me for a long time. Maybe this is the first encounter you've had with me. What's your 'read'? Feel free to share it in the comments below.
What do I think my life purpose is? I know what it is. At least in part. It is to share what I've learned. It is to teach. It is about Meghan's hope. To speak it, write it and share it. It goes beyond the safety piece, and into the spiritual journey her death and all that happened before and since has led me on. It is to share how I have managed the tragedy of her loss not only for myself, but for my family, and turned it into something for the greater good. It is to save lives, through Meghan's legacy. It is to comfort others who have had similar losses and give them hope for the future. It is to share love and light. It is manifesting beautifully now in writing, social media, and speaking opportunities and through the classes I offer. The Universe is screaming the time is now.
I just need to find the confidence to commit to the *big* piece of it... the part where I devote my whole heart and soul to it. If only I could...OK, I know I can, the problem is I have real worldly responsibilities like a house, a job and kids to raise. The Universe says it will provide. Must. Learn. Trust. Let go and let (spirit) lead the way. Time to manifest abundance!
There are two lessons I am working very hard on right now that are related. They are the most difficult lessons to integrate. I *know* what I must do but it is really, really difficult. I know they are necessary to move forward.
I get the message. Sometimes getting the message and doing what it tells you to are two different things.
Thankfully, life is a journey. Steps along a path. I see where the path is leading. How fast I get there is up to me. The thing is, I am feeling the need to run for the first time. Literally and figuratively.
I'm listening, Universe. Keep it coming.
What is your life purpose? Are you getting the message? Are you listening to it?
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