A LIFE OF PURPOSE AND PASSION

Happy New Year!
     I hope your holidays were great and you were able to utilize some of the suggestions we covered over the last few months to minimize your stress and make your holidays a time of joyful celebration.
The New Year offers yet another time of reflection, a fresh opportunity for another new start. Actually every moment provides an opportunity for a new start. We just don't always realize it.
In Eastern philosophies, they refer to this concept as the Eternal Now. The past is over, the future isn't here yet, the only time that ever really exists is Now. Understanding this concept can be a very powerful tool in creating your best life. For in essence, it means we must learn from the past, plan for the future, but remember to live the Now.
     How many people do you know who are stuck in the past, in the "if I had only" syndrome? "If I had only signed that contract." "If I had only taken that job." "If I had only married that person," or "If I had only not married that person." In the meantime years may go by, filled with great opportunities, but they're not able to take advantage of them for they are blinded by the past. Learn from your past "mistakes", think of how you would handle the same kind of situation differently now and then let it go! That's what life is for; learning and growing from our experiences, both positive and negative.
     The same applies to the future. How many people are so caught up in completing their degree or marking time until their next vacation or even impatiently waiting for the weekend when it's only Tuesday? What about the rest of the week? What about the rest of your life? Don't miss out on it.
While we must have a plan for our future, it's equally important to enjoy the moment or we're missing the beauty that exists in every day, waiting to inspire us and make us smile. It is often these small, magical moments in life that make life worth living.
Reflect on how you spend your time. Are you pursuing goals that are rewarding and fulfilling, ideals that add to your quality of life? Or when you look back over the past year, do you wonder, "Where did the time go?" and "What did I accomplish?"
     This is the goal we began with in our August 2005 Monthly Inspiration; to seek to create your best life, a goal well worth your time and effort.  Make this New Year a year filled with purpose and passion. Think of what brings meaning to your life and follow those pursuits. Address both the soul and the subconscious and think of what makes life worthwhile for each.
     The soul's pursuits must come first for when you increase your spiritual perspective, you get a clearer idea of how each decision will affect your daily life. "How will this affect my spiritual development?" can be a key question in making your important life decisions. If it will enhance your soul's growth, it will always also improve your daily life for they work hand in hand.
     Take an active role in pursuing your spiritual purpose for the soul will find further inspiration, guidance and expression by identifying its spiritual path. Attend seminars and workshops, read books, listen to others ideas and then meditate, thinking carefully about what you've heard, what strikes a chord of truth for you. Keep in mind, spiritual expression is an expansive expression, it will always be an all-inclusive, non-judgmental, unconditional sharing of love, never a limiting point of view. For God embraces us all, at all times, regardless of our differing beliefs.
     Strive to express this type of Divine love in all you do. At home, at work, with friends and family, with strangers, in your neighborhood or across the world, be compassionate. For the soul is passionate about humanity and expressing this love brings us further on our path.
     From a subconscious point of view, look at areas where you are most passionate, talents and attributes within yourself that bring out the best in you. Seek to bring these into manifestation.
Question yourself. What are you good at? What comes naturally? What talents or hobbies have you tucked away, forgetting their importance? Is it time to bring these out again? Remember we are looking to enhance our life in a healthy, balanced way, so don't over-schedule. If appropriate, include these in your daily life.
Whether you're an artist or a gardener, mechanic or a teacher, good with people or a natural with animals, realize your subconscious healthy expression, when combined with your soul's spiritual essence and guidance, becomes a powerful expression of your connection with God. Both the soul and the subconscious feel complete with a purpose and both continue to grow.
     Keep in mind that to follow your highest spiritual expression does not mean you must now quit your job and become a minister. By all means, if you feel that type of calling then follow your highest path and let no one interfere. But for most people, to express their true essence of Divine, unconditional love, means to express it right where they are, in their current position. For we are all of a Divine nature, no matter what role we play. So dedicate yourself to making this year your best year ever. Follow your path of purpose and passion and see what a difference it makes! You'll find life has never been better.
     Finally, join us for a one-day Meditation Retreat or an eight-session Spiritual Awareness Course. Both are extremely helpful courses in revealing your spiritual purpose and in integrating the concepts we've been reviewing over the past few months to help make life complete.

Wishing you a year filled with purpose and passion!

SANDY DALIEGE