In a word: Onward. There are times when this is a question I can answer easily, and other times, not so much. Today it is easy.

The month of July is one of my personal favorites. (Other months include: January, September and December.) It consistently happens to be a time of year when I experience a paradigm shift in thought and being.

Often it presents new opportunities, a new path to be explored, new challenges to be embraced. This July is no different. It is not different, with the exception of the fact, that I am stronger and more wise than I have ever been in my life.

There is within me a confidence I have never had. And although there is sorrow pertaining to relationships I must stand my ground with (not compromising what I know is true) it no longer cripples me to do so.

When the pain of aloneness floods my heart and mind with its bitter cold promise to paralyze me, I am quick to expose it to the fire of my passion to move onward.

Life is a series of experiences, each one of which makes us bigger, even though sometimes it is hard to realize this. For the world was built to develop character, and we must learn that the setbacks and grieves which we endure help us in our marching onward. —Henry Ford

Freedom, Virtue and the Courage of one's convictions. Despite the political and cultural realities of my beloved country, The United States of America, it is my sincere hope that true patriotism has a rebirth in my country.

Patriotism is not a mere sentimental attachment; as a United States citizen, Patriotism is my willingness to support and participate in the governing principles of my country. It is having the knowledge and courage to act in accordance and to defend the Constitution of the United States.



“A general dissolution of principles and manners will more surely overthrow the liberties of America than the whole force of the common enemy. While the people are virtuous they cannot be subdued; but when once they lose their virtue then will be ready to surrender their liberties to the first external or internal invader.” —Samuel Adams

I will breathe; I will take the next step in Grace; and I will only act through Grace as it is given. All else must wait, even when my heart yearns for things to be different, even when those around me demand more.

The ability to relax, unplug from duty and enjoy a long nap. The rest and restoration my body receives from this afternoon retreat; the cool air flowing from the full height of my tower fan. The gentle cuddle and support of my little companion fluff (my Bichon), who sleeps along my back. The gentle aroma of lavender mist from the well-worn homemade comforter which covered me. (The one I made my 15-year-old son when he was 2-years-old.)

For these things, I am grateful beyond words ...

Inspiration presents in all situations; it resides in the pulse of the moment. However, it is the intention to listen; to be present which allows inspiration to be decoded into understanding.

A recent time of inspiration for me was a respite in the mountains of New Mexico. I embraced this time which allowed me to declutter and reorganize my ideas. It was my intention to r-e-l-e-a-se and to disconnect from my routine. This allowed me to uproot some old emotionally-driven “stuff” and to replace it with new seeds of thought; sowing new ways of thinking and new hope for change — for growth and for moving onward.

Once back home, the ideas went from greenhouse pots into the rich soil of my life!

That is how I responded to a recent question of "How are you doing?"

Faithful: trusted; constant
Ritual: practiced, established, or ceremonial acts
Self-Care: attention to one's needs; protective and nurturing