Although everyone is an individual...we are a still a family...

Ernest Shurtleff Holmes

There is a God Power at the center of every man's being, a Presence that knows neither lack, limitation nor fear, sickness, disquiet nor imperfection. This Presence and Power is at the center of all people and all things. But because everyone is an individual, he can build a wall of negative thought between himself and this perfection. This makes it difficult for the true center to come to the surface.
-This Thing Called You. Kindle location 1416

We produce our top leaders from one of the two major parties in our political system. Even the party that wins is not always in agreement with each other. We cannot turn our backs on the other party or other candidates who did not win in an election because we are like a family.

In a family that functions well, there have to be compromise, and naturally sometimes, each person looks for circumstances to go their way. The success of a well functioning family depends on giving and receiving. Mutual respect for differences of opinions are a must, as well as an attitude that the family comes first. There are exceptions and there is much more to a full functional family than described here.

I used this analogy to show, what we, the American citizens have to do to make this country a place where we are productive, prosperous, where we can live together, work together and enjoy being a part of the American Society (USA). It takes respect, compromises, understanding, compassion, respect for differences and a desire to want this country to function well for all of its citizens.

Meditation: contemplate on, I recognize the presence of God. The Power of God is at the center of all people and things. All is well within my soul. Take 3 deep cleansing breaths, go into the silence for at least 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran

No matter what...I keep my faith...

This is the day after the Presidential election. It is good to finish a project. We hear often that it is not the destination but the journey. Everyone gets tired and wants to see the end so that we are able to begin another project. This is how I see the campaign of each candidate for this Presidential election.

It is now time to turn our focus on the new beginning. Although, some things have not changed and I suppose will not change at least at the rate that many of us would love to see. It is also important to not put all our chips on one man. It is important to still keep the faith and know that our Source is God.

Meditation: contemplate on, whatever the outcome is, I will continue to keep my faith and know that God is eternally within me. Take 3 deep cleansing breaths and afterwards go into the silence for at least 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran

Let not your heart be troubled...

Today, we as American citizens get to vote for who we would like to see as the President of the United States of America. I bring enthusiasm and gratitude because a lot of people fought and loss their lives for me and others to be able to vote today.

Enthusiasm inspires gratefulness. I am truly grateful to be able to go to the polls and cast my vote.
This day is finally here. Tomorrow is another day. For now, I shall focus on this day and rejoice in it.

Meditation: contemplate on, I am enthusiastic about today. I bring that enthusiasm to this day which is a voting day for the President of the United States. I do not let my heart be troubled by the outcome. I focus on God is my Source and is ever with me, eternally. Lovely LadyFran

Truly appreciative...

Each morning when I awake, I give thanks for life. I continue with gratitude for the many things, people in my life and the abundance and prosperity that I enjoy. Although, I believe that I am geniune, its not until one of those things that you give thanks for is taken away that you truly appreciate it. Many people have shared this sentiment recently after hurricane Sandy.

Meditation: contemplate on, when I awake and take that first breath, I am grateful for this truly amazing experience. Relax, breathe and notice your breathing. Now take 3 deep cleansing breaths. Go into the silence for at least 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran

Take a break...

Frederick Winslow Taylor was an American mechanical engineer who worked in a large steel mill in the nineteenth century and sought to improve industrial efficiency. He conducted an experiment. Every 12 minutes, a whistle was blown, at which time the men rested for three minutes. The workers took 3 minute breaks without missing. They worked  less and productivity went from 12.5 tons per day to 47 tons per day.

 Excerpt by Dr. Carolyn McKeown Fish from Creative Thought Magazine, November 2012 issue. (2nd source, Wikipedia)

These results are from a physical break. Imagine the results from a gratitude break.

When we turn our attention to Spirit...God, we multiply our blessings. I decided to write 3 minute meditations to show that you can start at as few minutes as 3 minutes. The good that comes to our lives is immeasurable. Imagine how enriched our lives would be, if we gave more time several times a day to go within to just commune with Spirit...God.

Meditation: contemplate on, I give time in my day as often as I can to sit quietly and go within to just be in the presence of God. Take 3 deep breaths, now go into the silence for 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran

Our kinder nature...

After a tragedy, sometimes we see people become more kinder and considerate of one another. I am seeing this since the storm, Hurricane Sandy. It is nice to see.

Then amnesia sets in and people usually return to their regular behavior towards each other. I think this happens, that is, people being kind to each other, so that we can get a real chance to see that kindness and love can take place in our world. It is easier than we think.

Meditation: contemplate on, I am kind, considerate and loving. I touch each person who comes into my life with kindness, consideration and love. Take 3 deep cleansing breaths and go into the silence for at least 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran

You miss your water when the well is dry...

You never miss your water until the well runs dry. I have no idea who first said this. I have heard it all of my life.

I spoke with many people who did not have lights, heat and some other basics. Once those things are restored, we may see those things with a deeper appreciation.

I know I appreciate the heat that has kept me warm throughout the night. I appreciate the lights that helps in keeping me from falling or bumping into things in the darkness. I appreciate my home phone and my cell phone that is not only fully charged but works and I can reach out to family, friends and neighbors. I appreciate the warm tea, the warm meals that I prepare and the clean water that I am able to drink.

After an experience such as Hurricane Sandy, how can I just go through another minute without a greater appreciation of those things that I may have taken for granted. I always thought I appreciated everything. Now, I believe that I do but even more so when they are not there momentarily.

Meditation: contemplate on, I am grateful for all that I have. I appreciate what I have even more. I am grateful. Take 3 deep cleansing breaths and now go into the silence for at least 3 minutes. Lovely LadyFran