Do you know the power you have within? Do you realize that you alone are responsible at creating the reality that you are living. Yes, it is true, we cannot always control WHAT happens to us, BUT we most certainly, are responsible and have a choice to make when it comes to HOW we react to what happens to us.

No matter how hard, sad, horrible your current reality is, You have a choice to make: Will you choose to allow yourself to feel sad & depressed and helpless because of what happened, or will you choose to smile despite all of it, to feel empowered from within, and know that none of it can truly hurt you. Because the Real you, the Soul, the Higher being is part of all there is, is One with everything else that exists. And therefore, nothing and no one has the power to affect you one way or the other without your consent.

I know it sounds easy. But I know first hand, it isn’t. But you know what? At least if you realize that it is You who creates your life, at least if you are aware of this concept, you are one step ahead. And I trust that the next step will take you higher and further in your Spiritual Journey of Evolution.

The story that I am about to share with you, has touched my heart so much the first time I read it. It is a simple story that demonstrates clearly the concept that a choice in perspective can either make you or break you.

Read on… and take from this story what you will. =)

{ Nikki tells Dylan this story after she has told him they have to be separated until they are both ready internally to reunite. Dylan is extremely upset over this and cannot understand Nikki’s wisdom behind pushing him away. Page – 369

“Sit down, angel face, I want to tell you a story.” She gestured to a chair opposite hers. Dylan filled his glass, yet again, while she continued:

Image Credit: Flickr

Once there were two old men, Edward and George, who were the very best of friends. They loved each other and spent time together every day. They would sit in the park in the mornings and watch the birds and the children and the animals and tell each other funny things. They spent a lot of time laughing and smiling with each other.

On Tuesdays, Edward would pick George up at his apartment and they’d go to the same cafe and treat themselves to a night out. They would laugh and tell stories and share their opinions, which each respected. On Fridays, they would meet at the matinee and watch a movie, even if it meant seeing the same movie twice. They just enjoyed and loved one another’s company and each realized that it was the most valuable asset they possessed.

Image Credit: Flickr

One day, Edward came to George and told him sad news. He intended to move to another state where he could be close to his son, whom, he felt, needed him.

George felt crestfallen and angry that this man, whom he loved, upon whom he depended for his happiness, would be willing to leave when he needed him as well.

Every thought of Edward made him so sad, that George began to droop a little in the shoulders and the corners of his mouth took on a distinct downward sag. The lids on his eyes seemed half shut most of the time and he started to shuffle, rather than walk. He spent most of his time in a chair, mindlessly watching television. Without his friend, the world and his life seemed an empty place.
Years passed, and one day as George walked home from the store, with cane in his hand to assist his unsure steps, he heard someone yell out his name. He shakily turned to see his old friend, Edward, whose appearance remained just as he remembered. He stood tall and erect with strength, striding toward him like a youthful man.

“I tough it was you, old friend!” said Edward joyfully, as he grasped his friend’s hand and patted him on the back with the other. “I’m so happy to have found you already. I just got back to town today! My things are being shipped and I move into a new apartment right away! I’ve missed you and have looked forward to this reunion with all my heart!”

George stood with tears running down his cheeks in disbelief. He eyed the man up and down to ensure his imagination played no tricks on him. Edward, however, noticed George had become such a sad and aged man that he hardly recognized him. He helped the old man with the shuffle to his apartment and they put his goods away, and then strolled very slowly to the park, for George no longer had the ability to move quickly.

They sat upon their old, favourite park bench and Edward finally found the courage to ask what had happened to bring on such a drastic change.

George explained, “When you left, I became the saddest man in the world. I tried to come to the park, but the thought of you made me too sad, so I stopped coming. I tried to go to our favourtie cafe, but the memory of you eating across from me made me too sad and I was angry that you left. I never went back again. I even went to the Friday matinee, but found the thought of your absence left me feeling hollow and sick inside, so I stopped going to the movies altogether. Every time I thought of you, I became sad and lonely and angry, knowing the best friend I ever had, had abandoned me.”

Edward looked down at his hands and touched his fingers together. There were tears in his eyes, but he looked up and spoke to his friend anyway. “George, I had to go. I had an important responsibility and I trusted what you and I had together would last forever. Whenever I went to a park, it made me think of you and all the good times we had, and those thoughts made me smile with happiness. Every time I ate at a cafe, I thought of you and the things we shared; how we always disagreed on politics; how we always agreed on beautiful women – and it made me laugh and brought joy to my heart. I went to the movies a lot, because going to the matinee reminded me how we were too cheap to go to the later shows. It reminded me how we used to eat popcorn and talk over the movies, laugh at the stupid parts, and then discuss every detail of the show afterwards and, George – it always made me happy. You see, old friend, the thought of you brought me joy. I, too, was saddened by our parting, but looked forward to our reunion, holding you in space of love and happiness in my heart.”

“This story is one told to me by an angelic being named Aurora, and it helped me understand we can choose our feelings, choose our course and attitude, for what we think and feel creates our world. Where our attention is held, either through vision, hearing, thought, or feeling, and how we qualify or hold the focus of the light within us, is what we become. It becomes the reality of our world. This life force is impersonal. It doesn’t care who uses it or what is creates. You can create misery or you can create happiness – both being a distinct choice of free will,” she said gently, kneeling in front of him and putting her head in his lap. }

Don’t you find this story amazing; how a simple shift in perspective can completely affect and transform your living existence into a misery or happiness.

Which will you choose? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

So, I know I have been kinda MIA for quite some time now, and have sort of neglected writing and posting on the blog, because I’ve been so busy with everything else… And because I am a perfectionist, and can’t just post anything for the sake of posting, I haven’t found the time to feel inspired with new content to inspire you in return. And I feel terrible about it! So to make up for it, I wanted to share a very special short film with you today.

The first time I’ve seen it was about a year ago, and it truly, deeply touched my soul. Without spoiling too much of the content and the concept, I’ll just say this: It is a simple, yet brilliant short film about the importance and the power of making others feel good, through giving sincere and honest compliments and really connecting with each person that you come into contact with. The film is done in a humorous way, but I feel like it touches on so many important subjects of our lives.

If you have not seen this short film, watch it! If you have seen it before, watch it again. Like I said, I’ve seen it a year ago, and have watched it a few times since with different people. And when I came across it today randomly, and watched it for the 4th time… it made me so happy & served as a much needed reminder of what is really important in our lives.

To truly be and live in the present moment. To make the best of that moment. To smile, no matter what, and to make others smile.

Watch it, you won’t regret it…

Enjoy! =)

YOU are GREAT!

Now go tell that to someone else and make them feel great too! =)

I’m feeling so light and airy right now. That’s usually the feeling I get after my morning walks. Especially when it’s sunny outside. And the Universe has blessed us with just gorgeous Fall weather for the past few days. One simply can’t feel anything but positively radiant after deeply inhaling crisp, morning Fall air, and being surrounded by golden yellows, fiery reds and vibrant oranges all around… Nature’s Beauty at it’s best!

This Week’s Hits are:

- iPhone. This Friday I was at a birthday party of one little princess, who just turned 1; my lovely friend, Gunel’s baby girl. We were all celebrating at a restaurant, and there was another cute baby boy at the party (about one y/o as well), sitting across from me. Like any spoiled little prince, he kept demanding attention by being rowdy, and always whining and asking for things. I will admit, it was a tiny bit annoying. I think there is a way to discipline children to a point where they know when it’s ok to ask and when it’s not, even at that age. But what do I know? I am not a parent yet, and only time can tell how my children will act in public. But that is another topic entirely, for another time. =)

So this boy decided, he just wasn’t going to be happy, unless someone was attending to his every whiny need. But guess what, there was a solution at hand. Thanks to an iPhone that his aunt put in front of him, that was playing cartoons, he was finally quite! So my point is that a Modern Child does not need any toys, he just needs an iPhone with some cartoons playing, and he is satisfied and happy for the entire night! Our world is changing people, and God only knows what this new generation of children will invent when they grow up. Isn’t it amazing? I thought it was…

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gnt/3518267115/

- So You Think You Can Dance. I don’t care how much I watch this show, I am simply addicted! I have always loved to dance, but never had any formal training, so it always sort of stayed at a hobby level. Well, when I first started watching the show I knew I had to start some sort of a dance routine. So, I took a couple of Salsa lessons, and now I go dancing at least twice a week and it is the most amazing, fun & exhilarating experiences! And I have the show to thank for re-igniting my passion for dance again. There are just so many ridiculously talented dancers out there, and it’s incredible that now there is a platform and an opportunity for them to showcase their talent and find careers in dance. I think it’s wonderful that dancing is becoming so popular again, because it’s such a positive expression of one’s feelings & emotions!

When you watch the show you see some troubled people, that come from difficult childhoods, tough neighbourhoods, and you see that their spirit survives and strives only thanks to their Dancing. I think it’s so inspirational and amazing that these people choose to express their emotions and frustrations through a positive outlet such as dance, instead of turning to the negative route of violence, drugs, abuse, anger etc..

So, Go Dance! It is such a liberating feeling! =)

http://www.psychologytoday.com

This Week’s Misses are:

- Lack of exercise. Due to some health issues, I haven’t been able to workout consistently for about 2 weeks now. And I feel like S***. Honestly!… When your body is used to regular exercise, it really starts to feel weird if you stop. Even for a short period of time.  I’m hoping to be back to my regular workout routines by mid-week, and I can’t wait to start again! I’m telling you, it only takes 2-3 months of consistent, regular workouts to train your body to actually crave exercise! So start working out now, and push yourself until it becomes a habit, and then you will be addicted! But it is a good addiction… As long as you don’t over do it, of course! =)

http://www.womenfitness.net

This weeks Hits are:

- My new polka-dot Rain Boots! I know it is such a small, materialistic thing, but these cute polka-dot Rain Boots make me happy. I have only worn them once so far, and looking forward to rocking them out more as the fall weather brings in more rainy days with it. They inspire me to smile, and I can see some really cute Fashion Photo shoot ideas wearing these cuties…

- A random, happy, homeless man. On our way downtown a couple of days ago, my friends & I were driving down Yonge St . As we were stopped at a red-light we were people watching, and noticed this homeless guy sitting on the floor. We couldn’t help but notice the difference in attitude between this guy, who seemingly has nothing (by society standards), and all the rest of the by passing people. Everyone else, although might be happy & content with their lives, were too busy living in their heads, hurrying up to attend to some important business. And this guy, was completely living in the moment / in the NOW, he was just sitting there, beaming from ear to ear, said hello to us, and made a comment about what a beautiful & sunny day it was! The moral(s) of the story: 1. You don’t need a lot to be feel happy, content & be grateful & 2. Take the time to ‘Stop & smell the roses’, no matter how busy you are. =)

http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com/

- Waking up early. Anybody who knows me well, knows that I have always been a total night-owl, and by nature I am the epitome of an anti-early-riser. I absolutely love the night-time. I function so much better at night. There is nothing quite like it like the peace & quite that I feel, when it seems that the entire city is asleep and I am the only one awake. BUT, the problem with that is that I would go to bed at 3-4 and sometimes I even pushed it to 5 am, and of course, because of that I would wake up late, and would always feel like I wasted the day (although I would still do what I had to do during the night). I knew I had to change it. So my goal for this week was to wake up earlier than usual. I know for some people 9 am is not early, but for me, 9 am is early, because I go to bed at 3 am… So, I am so proud of myself for actually sticking to that goal. Some days were harder than others, and perhaps I lingered in bed for 10-15 minutes extra and it took an extra push to get myself out of bed, but overall, I am very proud of myself! Eventually, my goal is to push it to 8 am, and then maybe, just maybe if I am strong enough to 7 am… It will be hard, but not impossible. I will get there! =)

http://www.thewolfrocks.com

This Week’s Misses are:

- Not reading enough books. I love to read, and usually have a few books that I’m reading at once. I think books are one of the best places to find inspiration, to learn wisdom, to travel to unknown places, to experience certain emotions that otherwise you might never do in your own life. That is the reason why I love to read, but unfortunately, lately, I have not been able to read as much as I know I should. It all comes down (again) to being more organized and better time-manage so you have time to do everything on your to-do list. I’m working on it… Small, baby steps… As long as I feel I am progressing, it is all good! =)

http://www.lifehack.org

Yup… it’s one week later, and time to reflect again… I realized that I talk or rather write a lot, and some of you might not have the time or the patience to read it all! So, my goal today is to keep it short & sweet!

Lets get started…

This week’s Hits are:

- Our Health. Although, I am sure all of us know & agree with the notion that our health is the most important asset that we have, not a lot of us are really, truly aware of how lucky we are, if we are in perfect health. I usually try to express my gratitude to the Universe / God for every day that my family, friends & loved ones & I are healthy. But this week in particular I had some extra eye-opening moments. I started volunteering at a local Hospital (York Central Hospital) back in April, because I felt the need within to do something selfless. To help out within the community, to try to make a small difference in people’s lives. Being in a hospital environment is something that a lot of people dread, but believe me, being so close to sick, old, dying people, as sad and heartbreaking as it is, helps you take on an entirely different perspective on life.

We sometimes take our health for granted, not realizing that it can be taken away from us within seconds. Witnessing the lives of patients, especially the ones with chronic diseases, that have to visit the hospital a few times a week to get treatments, you cannot help but count your blessings for being able to walk, see, hear, breath on your own, and that your organs are all functioning properly, without the help of machines or wheelchairs.

Every minute & every day that you are healthy, take a few moments in a day to express your enormous gratitude for it. It doesn’t matter what kind of material or financial gains  you have, if you don’t have your health, honestly NONE of it matters! So, if you are neglecting your health, chasing after career growth or financial gain – stop it! Of course it’s important to be ambitious, but DO NOT take your health for granted, and start paying attention to leading a balanced lifestyle. Make healthier eating choices, be active, exercise at least 2-3 times a week, spend time with your loved ones and on your own. All of these things, contribute to the length & quality of our lives. Trust me, it’s not a pleasant experience to be a patient in a hospital, so do everything in your power TODAY to avoid that!

- Having a loved one’s support you during the times when you need it the most. Another small Aha! Moment also came from my hospital observations this week. When we are young & unexperienced, we take for granted the people in our lives that love & care about us the most. But when we get older and God Forbid become sick, it is so, very important to have a partner, or a close friend, or family take care of you, when you can’t. Honestly, it is the saddest thing to witness sick, old patients who don’t seem to have anybody and are completely lonely. It just breaks my heart so much!! So, re-evaluate your priorities in life – start appreciating the people in your life who love you. Tell them or rather show them through your actions how precious they are to you. I don’t know about you, but my biggest fear in life is to be lonely when I am old. And the thought that brings me most joy & peace is to imagine growing old with the same partner right next to you, that you traveled through your lives ups & downs with. Still just as in love as in the beginning of the relationship, holding hands and watching your grandchildren grow up. Treasure the ones in your life that you love & the ones that love you back. At the end of the day, it’ll be them that you will turn to in the times of need.

This week’s Misses are:

- The fact that Summer is over! I can’t even believe that I’m writing this, but if you look on the calendar, it says that it is the last day of August?! How sad is that? Although, I can’t complain about not doing anything exciting this Summer (as I got to travel to Europe & visit the most beautiful places on earth), I honestly did NOT get enough of Sunshine, warmth & the beach… =( I know fall is beautiful, and so is Winter. But, I think I am actually allergic to cold, like my body rejects feeling cold weather… Nothing I can do about it… yet… I dream of living in a place where it’s Summer 24/7, and I live on the beach, so I could have my morning coffee on a balcony overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and I can go swimming 2 times a day!!… *sigh* Can’t wait!!

By the way… I don’t think I accomplished my goal of talking/writing less today, but oh well… guess I have a lot to say! hehe

Photo Source: http://workersforjesus.co.za, http://missyohanna.files.wordpress.com, http://freshome.com,