search and rescue

Alas, the universe has a way of making sure we get our fill of balance which for most of us means challenges and tests of our strength, endurance and perseverence.  Such is always the case and when we overcome our stuggles, we become aware of how strong we truly are.  My road to this realization filled me with tremendous faith in the powers that be. 
Keep the faith. Always.

In six days I painstakingly passed through eight airports travelling close to five hours each flight.  I must confess, Virgin Airlines was a rare treat and if we ever have a choice to travel on this airline again, it will be priority. 

Man-made structure in San Francisco.

A natural version just down the street near Fisherman's Wharf.  

I found so much encouragement in the little things to keep me going on this journey.  My sister Carrie gave me the nudge to get it done.

As if angels were guiding me with messages from above ~ the clock says "don't worry."

Of course, it rained again.  I was grateful to have previously visited San Francisco so I was familiar with the path I needed to follow.

Chinatown is delightful but when walking up and down the hills for hours on end, my old bones needed to rest a bit. 

Lo and behold, Old St. Mary's provided the perfect place to gather my thoughts.

This was me...

The desire to know your own soul will end with all other desires.  Rumi

I was given so many signs and realize I am strong because I know my weaknesses.  I am wise because I have been foolish.  I laugh because I have known sadness.

As I was resting, my sister Kiki and I texted a bit and she offered encouragement to keep going.  It is known that every life has its dark and cheerful hours. Our level of happiness comes from choosing which to remember.

The more I help others, the more I prosper and grow.  In my world, everybody wins.  The cabdriver from Sudan talked with me for at least a half hour offering his wisdom as did so many people in this town.  I will cherish their support.

It is not the situation that determines whether or not life is enjoyable.  It is the way your choose to respond to it.  This single canna lily brought me much joy.  Just down the road on the sidewalk is an ingrained sunflower and as I bent to take its picture, my phone rang and my search was over. 

Steve and I settled in our room at Sheraton Fisherman's Wharf then indulged in superb shakes, burgers and fries at Johnny Rockets.  He requested this place as it held fond memories when his Dad took him last visit.

A single phone call brought jubilation to our family back home for they were gathered together and as if the Bears won the Superbowl, they all jumped around and cheered for the good news (baby Dillan included.) 

There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience. 

The wound is the place where the Light enters you.   Rumi

 

SERENITY PRAYER

Lord, grant me

the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

Courage to change the things I can

and the Wisdom to know the difference.

God is great and God is good.  xo

three little birds (and words)

"don't you worry...about a thing...every little thing is gonna be alright"  bob marley

Hey mon! We indulged in a brief escape to restore our souls by visiting Bob Marley's homeland and settled upon Couples Negril in Jamaica.  We did not know it at the time, but this short trip was to provide loads of sorely needed soul energy for the weeks to come. 

Dan and Darcy coveted a Caribbean respite from their grueling schedules after juggling college and jobs and were taking a break before becoming homeowners in June.  We joined them on a whim and the memories of those few days have sustained us through many challenges in the weeks to follow.  Jamaica holds a keen energy within its lands and its people.  Wayne asked if I would ever want to live there and my response was "I would have, but it's too late now for I have too much of the busyness in my heart to be able to truly be one with the locals who know the true secret to life in its natural balance and simplicity."  Music fuels their souls so I will take that commonality with me.

Kindness refreshes the tired and broken.

Goats are everywhere ~ along the roads, in yards, walking as if they naturally belong.  I asked the driver why there are so many and he replied "they keep them for a bit as pets and if they stray too often, get tied up until they are ready for someone's meal."  Yikes!

If you want to know where your heart is, look to where your mind wanders. 

As you breathe in, cherish yourself.  As you breathe out, cherish all beings.

Live a joyful life, seek simplicity, slow down and be kind.

Your soul is the quiet inner voice which speaks in whispers.  Going into silence regularly provides a perfect space for that voice.

Let your smile change the world, but don't let the world change your smile.

If nothing ever changes, there'd be no butterflies.

The desire to know your own soul will end with all other desires. Rumi

Ah...Rasta Ralphie...the master graced us with his presence on our catemaran tour to the diving cliffs.  He thrilled us with his guitar and drum music, singing his songs with a constant smile, and connected with all on board.  As he approached me, he held my hand and offered his blessing for strength for our family and said I was a strong woman.  Little did I know he knew more than I did at the time and his blessing was indeed required.  Thanks, Rasta Ralphie. 

Every little positive thought you give out can silence one of those storms of negativity.

I love this share where their inner child came out to play.  Magical.

This little guy hung outside our room.  Great property; great meals; great entertainment (loved the slow dances); great beaches (even the nude one); great weather; great time.

In three words, I can sum up everything I've learned about life: 

 it goes on.  Robert Frost

Cheers to Dan and Darcy!  Thanks for sharing the memories and look forward to many more to come.  Love you. xo