A friend across the world—asked what am I doing nowadays; I seem to be maintaining a very low profile. I am not aggressive the way I used to be a few years ago. Wondered if I’m depressed. Please share. Well, it’s very difficult times; but I know that I am strong enough to get through these current rough patches—through my experiences and may share those stories later in the year. I hope.

What a nice word … hope. Hanging onto it for sure.

So, looking back to the last half year, a review: I don’t know how it happened but thought by leaving New York, it would be less expensive. Not quite. LA beat out NY for the #1 spot this year—Most expensive US city now to live in & most polluted—winner for the last 9 years. Just knew things were going downhill in my country when I started seeing Bentleys’, Rolls Royces', & Limos pulling up to my local Dollar Store; even saw the new host of The Tonight Show, Conan O’Brien arriving there with fans one sunny afternoon (well, it was a comedy bit…). 

Keeping cool on a very hot day…holding my breaths in a crappy economy.

I adopted a Vegan Diet or let’s just say—gave up meat for good. Told that I became anemic. Ate more nuts. Went nuts! Learned more of my family health history; told that I have high blood sugar. Just speechless: So I started eating a little better or closest to the natural state, became more aware of my little everyday habits. Ate more nuts again! If you have any health secrets, please share.

I joined the Screen Actors Guild; need to get an agent who just might like me … just may believe in me; but first I got to believe in myself.

Became a Member of California State Parks Foundation and National Association for Poetry Therapy. Spent my 38^th Birthday with my long love on top of Mt. Wilson, overlooking all of Los Angeles. And after 20 years of renting here and there, we planted a seed of thought for making this town our home—we just need a place to plant some roots. 

Still wondering if I am somebody yet or just a number…....

 ....

Saved a Life. And discovered a new life inside of me; found a strong desire to visit what’s outside of me—sacred places.

Forgave more than I ever had. 

Experienced more California Earthquakes above 4.0. Felt more pain; Felt more joy! Solid as a rock: Gained a few love pounds & lost it always by morning. Gained it back always by night: Always the same. Told I’m normal, like in everyway; but not real sure about that…!

 ....

Received more messages in dreams. Paid more attention to WAKE-UP calls: Started Juicing. Picked back up daily Meditation & Yoga to keep life in balance. Feel like I should be doing something more and probably will…anything on the lines which favors a minimalist style—healthy, creative, and green. That's me!....

…Discovered how highly adaptable that I’ve been in Destructive or Breakdown Phases. Woo-hoo!....

Saw a lot of ladybugs, hummingbirds, and butterflies—made up for breaking the hand held mirror. Said the hell to Superstitions! 

Had a few family members and friends get real scary sick; some even passed away (including my aunt of Alzheimer’s and my uncle of Diabetes). Obtained Health Insurance after having a few years without; started preventive medicine. Branched out more into new areas of exploration like Natural Health, Psychology, Therapy, and interesting subjects such as Shamanic Studies and Kabalistic Astrology.

Took amazing mental pictures … and photographic pictures of anything—which caught my eye ... happiness all around me sometimes...

From Silent Summer Friends

Oh, yeah, paid more in water and trash. Everything seems to be going up and up and up nowadays … More and More of America … And what a wonderful Fourth of July weekend hearing the great news that the Statue of Liberty crown REOPENS for the first time after the September 11^th attacks. 

There's more to the picture

Than meets the eye...

-Neil Young & Crazy Horse

Today, I feel the desire to explore the unconscious. Staring into the deep last night must have triggered these feelings; a person may have as well, whom I will keep the name private and serves as a symbol in today’s thoughts.

 ....

In our progress to meeting our life’s goals or things we wish to do, sometimes, we have no choice (say something unexpectedly occurs), and we finally stop what we’re doing, coming into something we are longing for more—a long loving embrace. Showing affection, deep love for one another gives some comfort and protection to the rest of our life’s journey. 

 ....

Home is where the heart is and not all the time it brings great happiness; especially when you don’t where your home really is. Sadness, grieving, and mourning can come at any time there.

 ....

Someone brought up the other day—the term: vulnerability. What makes you feel that way? I could think of a lot, like seeing blood on the ground in my dream of life: someone hurt, crying out for help or someone who has passed—strongly connected to me.

 ....

Recently, I was told a few things regarding even my health. Sometimes, you think that you are doing all the right things regarding that; but you maybe surprised after a few tests. Find yourself preparing a whole new plan or recipe—approach to life to sustain you. And, even though, you may inherit certain genes in which you may not want or wish to have, it also includes inherited strengths of your character. Something to think about.

 ....

Taking time to nourish the self: I realize that this blood—which I saw in my latest dream, precedes the change. It is a carrier of the spirit. The genes I carry ... so many untold generations of human experience—the pain, tragedy, and wonder ... is the collective human experience. A good friend had once told me that—Shamans, healers, artists, seers, sensitive people in general often go through states of melancholy. He, himself, often goes through a sad time just before he experiences a spiritual revelation or new plateau. He said further to me that after a while I may begin to see a pattern between a sad time and then a flash of inspiration sometime thereafter. Like, "Hey something's about to emerge..."; Then perhaps I will welcome it and know there is a better outcome. For him, it was the dream and dreams of his father...his soul partner and child, which preceded the news that he was going to have a very special son to walk in his footsteps—delivered by a Powerful Spirit.

 ....

But, it is true what he said about the way birds gather before a storm. The way there is always pain before birth; even a seed must burst before it brings forth life. And like my past dreams waiting for the sun, things are always darkest before dawn.

 ....

Linking today’s unconscious forces and subpersonalities within … doorway into a subtle world: Last night, was the first night, I dreamt of my aunt who passed of Alzheimer’s. She looked so beautiful and alert, fully aware of what’s going on around us (sat by two of my relatives in the living space) and revealed to me quickly a message before I passed into somewhere else.

 ....

There’s so much hard labor required to achieve goals and it’s not so easy all the time to protect yourself emotionally or what I’ve learned so far; you can feel so exhausted, beaten to the ground, due to those external pressures or perhaps, by your own ego.

 ....

So much potential not currently expressed--I even see in me.

 ....

Not all of us preserve our ideas or energy to access later in the other life we’ve chosen or choosing. Storing up some plans: I don’t need to ask in times of trouble from people who I have helped in the past or are not giving. Giving should come from the heart and sometimes, those gifts are right there in front of your very own eyes. Like yesterday, I woke up like THUNDER, felt like I was struck by LIGHTENING … by a dream of a Man with a white painted face, holding a spear or a fire stick painted in white. I believe the white war paint represented Medicine—expressing a personal battle coming through; wisdom coming to life thru a major event, which is altering my perception … in seeing more of the truths.

 ....

So being grateful for this observation today.

 ....

Last night, also, I dreamt of the King cobra—hiding (this is the second half of last night’s dream). I read somewhere that the Ancient Egyptians believe that it symbolized power over life and death. Probably why peace hasn’t been so attainable overall, so far in this world. Peace comes within. How many of us overall are getting in touch with our true beings?

 ....

And, like that King hiding—the ultimate solution to all our problems are not all there waiting to be discovered. I see many layers of illusion in this world and our spirits may not be easily seen through this many-layered veil. At night usually … and I don’t know why but I am more able to reflect and come to know the true nature of my being.

 ....

Exploring only deeper within tonight … I’ll enjoy another good cup of Yerbe Mate from the South American Atlantic Rainforests. A few of my good friends joke around with me--and what that stuff does to the brain! It’s like I’m on drugs; give me a cup or two! If anything, I really believe it helps—staying focused and clear.

 ....

Each of us carries a legacy of needed talents that will support the growth and expansion of whom we see as our family here on earth and beyond. Sometimes, your greatest gifts are called on in times of need and maybe, not just for one person. It is Good Medicine for the soul when we assist and share our talents and abilities. As others prosper with us, we can gain a greater sense of self-worth that is not ego-based.

 ....

So, on that note, I will listen to my dreams of self-expression. Use love over fear (as in “unfinished business” by James Van Praagh): Use my creativity in order to fully express my feelings, talents, desires. I’ve found when we express ourselves freely and openly, who and what we are, at any given moment is healing, as well as being productive.

 ....

I’m up late. One of those sleepless nights, waiting to slip into dream world with my deep thoughts.

"Water Melodies" -- a DVD a musical experience with water scenes...

I came across my favorite things the other day ... What are yours?

1. Falling in love.
   
    
2. Laughing so hard your face hurts.
   
    
3. A hot shower.
   
    
4. No lines at the Super Wal-Mart.
   
    
5. A special glance.
   
    
6. Getting mail.
   
    
7. Taking a drive on a pretty road.
   
    
8. Hearing your favorite song on the radio.
   
    
9. Lying in bed listening to the rain outside.
   
    
10. Hot towels out of the dryer.
    
     
11. Finding the sweater you want is on sale for half price.
    
     
12. Chocolate milkshake.
    
     
13. A long distance phone call.
    
     
14. A bubble bath.
    
     
15. Giggling.
    
     
16. A good conversation.
    
     
17. The beach.
    
     
18. Finding a $20 bill in your coat from last winter.
    
     
19. Laughing at yourself.
    
     
20. Midnight phone calls that last for hours.
    
     
21. Running through sprinklers.
    
     
22. Laughing for absolutely no reason at all.
    
     
23. Having someone tell you that you're beautiful.
    
     
24. Laughing at an inside joke.
    
     
25. Friends.
    
     
26. Falling in love for the first time.
    
     
27. Accidentally overhearing someone say something nice about you.
    
     
28. Waking up and realizing you still have a few hours left to sleep.
    
     
29. Your first kiss.
    
     
30. Making new friends or spending time with old ones.
    
     
31. Playing with a new puppy.
    
     
32. Late night talks with your roommate that keep you from sleeping.
    
     
33. Having someone play with your hair.
    
     
34. Sweet dreams.
    
     
35. Hot chocolate or Hot tea.
    
     
36. Road trips with friends.
    
     
37. Swinging on swings.
    
     
38. Watching a good movie cuddled up on a couch with someone you love.
    
     
39. Wrapping presents under the Christmas tree while eating cookies and drinking eggnog.
    
     
40. Song lyrics printed inside your new CD so you can sing along without feeling stupid.
    
     
41. Going to a really good concert.
    
     
42. Getting butterflies in your stomach every time you see that one person.
    
     
43. Making eye contact with a cute stranger.
    
     
44. Winning a really competitive game.
    
     
45. Making chocolate chip cookies!
    
     
46. Having your friends send you homemade cookies!
    
     
47. Spending time with close friends!
    
     
48. Seeing smiles and hearing laughter from your friends.
    
     
49. Holding hands with someone you care about.
    
     
50. Running into an old friend and realizing that some things (good or bad) never change.
    
     
51. Discovering that love is unconditional and stronger than time.
    
     
52. Riding the best roller coasters over and over.
    
     
53. Hugging the person you love.
    
     
54. Watching the expression someone's face as they open a much-desired present from you.
    
     
55. Watching the sunrise.
    
     
56. Getting out of bed every morning and thanking God for another beautiful day.
    
     
57. Having friends you know you can cry on or talk to about your deepest problems.

May you always have...

May joy and peace surround you...

May the blessing of God's soft rain be on you...

May the blessing of light be upon you...

May there always be work for your hands to do...

May your neighbors respect you...

May those who love us ...

May the road rise to meet you...

Clouds

Clouds are heavenly bodies of moisture, hovering above us like protective angels as they float around our world. Angels love to use these natural wonders to show us signs because they can be shaped in any fashion and are spectacular to look at. Clouds are one of the most common ways that we receive “I love you” messages from Heaven. The angels' clouds are physical signs that they’re with us around the clock.

Feathers

Feathers may be the ultimate angelic sign. Although feathers come in all different sizes and colors, they're amazing signs because they're directly connected with the thought, prayer, or question that you had in mind. Rarely will you find one left by the angels without knowing what it means. Either you’ll come across it while thinking about something or you'll immediately sense the association upon finding it. The angels will bring you feathers and other signs in a way tailor-made to your own level of faith.

Music

The angels often send their messages through the sound and power of music. It seems that almost everywhere we go, silence is replaced with music in one form or another. Pay attention, as recurring songs (or a series of songs sharing a theme) are almost always a sign from above. In addition to offering a connection to Heaven, music delivers very direct messages and signs. For instance, the title or lyrics of a song that you hear repetitively offers a chance to receive specific guidance from your angels.

Pennies

Coins, or currency in general, are often used by the angels to show us messages or give us guidance. All aspects of this type of sign have specific relevance to you and your path, including the time and place you find the coin, its denominations, the message written on it, and the material it's made. The next time you find a coin on the ground, know that it was purposely placed in your path. The gift of a coin helps us feel supported--financially, emotionally, spiritually, and physically.

Rainbows

Since the time of Noah's ark, rainbows have been symbolic of God's promise of love, care, support, and protection. When you ask the angels for a sign and you see a rainbow, it signals that your entire situation is being taken care of by them. Albino rainbows, double rainbows, and moonbows (rainbows appearing at night under the moonlight) are all so unusual that they leave no doubt as to their significance. Rainbows are not only signs, but also gifts of encouragement and guidance from the other side.

Voices

When there's an impending emergency or an excess of personal stress, the only way that the angels can ensure you'll hear them is through direct verbal communication. And if the angels talk, there's no doubt as to their message and meaning, and you should definitely listen. Hearing your name called by a disembodied voice is actually a common experience. This happens to most people as they're awakening from sleep, since that's when we're most open to hearing the angels. The voice of God and the angels is that of love and wisdom. When they speak up, it's loud, clear, and unmistakable.

Numbers

Numbers are often the most interesting--and sometimes, puzzling--signs to receive from the angels. Sequences appear in recurring patterns, and if you don't know what you’re looking at, it can feel as if someone or something is out to confuse you. Numbers signs come from all over. When you see repeating numbers in your life, ask your angels what they mean or look them up in the book Angel Numbers 101. Numbers can also give us the courage we need to move forward and grow in our lives.

What signs from angels have you received?

Clouds
Coins
Feathers
Flowers
Lights
Music
Rainbows
Scents
Voices

Steps to Receiving Signs from Above

"For 59 years Tibetans have placed their trust in Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, as their head of state and spiritual leader. In 1950, he was called upon to assume full political power after some 80,000 People's Liberation Army soldiers invaded Tibet. He soon created a resistance movement against China. In 1959, after a large uprising, he escaped to Dharamsala India (where he currently resides) and received political asylum. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize." ~Beliefnet

March 2009 is the 50th anniversary of the Dalai Lama's escape to India. To honor his life's work so far, Beliefnet chose some of the most beautiful and wise Dalai Lama quotes on peace from their virtual library to share with all of us.

Dalai Lama Quotes About Peace

"A good motivation is what is needed: compassion without dogmatism, without complicated philosophy; just understanding that others are human brothers and sisters and respecting their human rights and dignities. That we humans can help each other is one of our unique human capacities."

"As free human beings we can use our unique intelligence to try to understand ourselves and our world. But if we are prevented from using our creative potential, we are deprived of one of the basic characteristics of a human being."

"Anger is the real destroyer of our good human qualities; an enemy with a weapon cannot destroy these qualities, but anger can. Anger is our real enemy."

"Because we all share this planet earth, we have to learn to live in harmony and peace with each other and with nature. This is not just a dream, but a necessity."

"Brute force, no matter how strongly applied, can never subdue the basic human desire for freedom and dignity. It is not enough, as communist systems have assumed, merely to provide people with food, shelter and clothing. Human nature needs to breathe the precious air of liberty."

"We have a saying in Tibet. "If you lose your temper and get angry, bite your knuckles." This means that if you lose your temper, do not show it to others. Rather, say to yourself, 'Leave it.'"

"When we demand the rights and freedoms we so cherish, we should also be aware of our responsibilities. If we accept that the others have an equal right to peace and happiness as ourselves, do we not have a responsibility to help those in need?"

"Without love we could not survive. Human beings are social creatures, and a concern for each other is the very basis of our life together."

"Real peace [is] not just the absence of violence or of war... A mere absence of war is not genuine, lasting world peace. Peace must develop on mutual trust."

"The whole of humanity is…one human family. This planet is our only home."

"Non-violence means dialogue, using our language, the human language. Dialogue means compromise; respecting each other’s rights; in the spirit of reconciliation there is a real solution to conflict and disagreement. There is no hundred percent winner, no hundred percent loser; not that way but half-and-half. That is the practical way, the only way."

"My call for a spiritual revolution is thus not a call for a religious revolution. Nor is it a reference to a way of life that is somehow other-worldly, still less to something magical or mysterious. Rather, it is a call for a radical re-orientation away from our habitual preoccupation with self towards concern for the wider community of beings with whom we are connected, and for conduct which recognizes others’ interests alongside our own."

"I pray for all of us, oppressor and friend, that together we may succeed in building a better world through human understanding and love, and that in doing so we may reduce the pain and suffering of all sentient beings."

"We should not seek revenge on those who have committed crimes against us, or reply to their crimes with other crimes. We should reflect that by the law of karma, they are in danger of lowly and miserable lives to come, and that our duty to them, as to every being, is to help them to rise towards Nirvana, rather than let them sink to lower levels of rebirth."

"Internal peace is an essential first step to achieving peace in the world. How do you cultivate it? It's very simple. In the first place by realizing clearly that all mankind is one, that human beings in every country are members of one and the same family."

"It is extremely important to investigate the causes or origins of suffering. One must begin that process by appreciating the impermanent, transient nature of our existence. All things, events and phenomena are dynamic, changing every moment, nothing remains static. Meditating on one’s blood circulation could serve to reinforce this idea: the blood is constantly flowing, it never stands still..."

"Wars arise from a failure to understand one another's humanness. Instead of summit meetings, why not have families meet for a picnic and get to know each other while the children play together?"

"It is my belief that whereas the twentieth century has been a century of war and untold suffering, the twenty-first century should be one of peace and dialogue. As the continued advances in information technology make our world a truly global village, I believe there will come a time when war and armed conflict will be considered an outdated and obsolete method of settling differences among nations and communities."

"Happiness cannot come from hatred or anger. Nobody can say, "Today I am happy because this morning I was very angry." On the contrary, people feel uneasy and sad and say, "Today I am not happy because I lost my temper this morning." Through kindness, whether at our own level or at the national and international level, through mutual understanding and through mutual respect, we will get peace, we will get happiness, and we will get genuine satisfaction."

Above Quotes from "The Pocket Dalai Lama," edited by Mary Craig, 2002. Reprinted by arrangement with Shambhala Publications, Boston.

Never give up
Develop the heart
Too much energy in your country is spent
Developing the mind instead of the heart.
Be compassionate not just to your friends but to everyone
Be compassionate.
Work for peace in your heart and in the world.
Work for peace and I say again
Never give up.
No matter what is happening,
No matter what is going on around you,
Never give up.

The Dalai Lama

From "The Pocket Zen Reader," edited by Thomas Cleary, 1999. Reprinted by arrangement with Shambhala Publications, Boston.

The Wise Quotes of Paulo Coelho

The Brazilian author of "The Alchemist" and many other novels Paulo Coelho has moved the world with his seemingly simple spiritual tales, selling 85 million books in more than 150 countries. Here are some of our favorite inspirational quotes from his beloved writings--on everything from following your dreams to making friends with your own heart.

Your Journey

There is one great truth on this planet: whoever you are, or whatever it is that you do, when you really want something, it's because that desire originated in the soul of the universe. It's your mission on earth.

The Alchemist

Seeking Love

The moment we begin to seek love, love begins to seek us. And to save us.

By the River Piedra I Sat Down and Wept

The Best Teacher

Befriending the Heart

The Only Thing

This Precious Moment

The Secret of Life

The Good Fight

What is Intuition?