Wearin' the World R U?

Nature -- how will you be remembered?

2012-01-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

Ever wonder how Nature provides an abundance of gifts for us to discover, explore and learn from everyday? In the midst of our busy lives, is there one thing about Nature that you gravitate to ...... a particular song of a bird, the ebb and flow of the tide, the falling of leaves, the ripening of fruit or the first glimpse of the moon? How do your friends remember you? Besides the emails, electronic gadgets, books, music and love for certain foods, is there something that will trigger a memory of you in Nature?

I still think of my late mother-in-law when I encounter any type of deer as she was fond of them. Bambi even appeared the day she passed away at the cottage and so her gentle spirit lives on. Green plants and especially ferns and palms are definitely a reminder of my mother who to this day has over a thousand pots of plants in her garden which I believe are all her children. I often think of her when I encounter a rare type of fern and wonder if she has it as part of her collection. Of course there's the red-tailed hawk that my husband is fond off and he always seems to be able to spot one during our walks. Then there is my dear friend who passed away many years ago and to this day, whenever I see a sunset on the horizon, it reminds me of our special times together on the California Coast.

Today is my father's 78th birthday and in honor of him and his spirit, I hiked to the top of Coyote Ridge Trail and Mt. Tamp here in Marin. Although he is half way across the world, I celebrated his birthday thinking of him surrounded by Nature for he has been a constant inspiration in my life when it comes to health, fitness and loving the outdoors. He would have liked this hike very much!

It's something that's close to my heart but definitely one that you can relate to...... it doesn't take much to observe and thrive in our natural beauty. Perhaps you'll reflect on the many associations you have with Nature and your loved ones. We are so blessed to be given this gift. May your days ahead be filled with many magical moments .......the Wonder of Nature, the Warmth of Love and the Adventure of Life!

Wishing You Life's Very Best for 2012!

Is Being Sensitive A Choice?

2011-09-20T17:49:00.000-07:00

A strange phenomenon occurred in the course of a month which made me reflect on how sensitive we are as human beings. I started asking the question “how deep is our sensitivity and are we capable of extending our sensitivity?

About a dozen of my friends shared with me their kids allergies to nuts, gluten, diary, grass and even papaya – and if consumed would have a physical reaction that would require medical attention. This type of physical sensitivity to certain foods has in fact grown in the past few years. Then, my six year old daughter came to me the other day, and cried saying that her feelings were hurt as she was not invited to play with a group of friends during recess. I totally understood this emotional sensitivity as adults are similarly made to feel isolated in the real world.

In yet another circumstance, I witnessed the verbal exchange of a couple arguing with each other as both were sensitive to criticisms made carelessly in reference to each other’s livelihood and contribution to society. This was no doubt a classic case of intellectual sensitivity and one that touched the human ego. Finally, a comment was made in a video clip, to reflect on how we all have different paths to discover the truth about life and as human beings need to be sensitive to these spiritual journeys.

So can we assume that we are capable of being sensitive to every action we take? What if we really do care and ensure that our actions resonate with our values? Would we not then have a conscience that would reflect our sensitivity in our day to day lives? If so, than I say to you - every action and every choice matters. Even a purchase matters. That we are sensitive to both the cause and effect of any product made.

For those of us who do care about the environment and the people on this planet, we are sensitive to how our purchase impacts their lives. And I don’t mean just the contributions made after the sale to communities and preservation of the Earth. I refer to the whole supply chain that result in a good to be produced – from the farmers to the factory workers. What we as consumers choose does impact the livelihoods and well being of people around the world. Our every choice reflects our sensitivity.

We're Wearin' the World

2011-09-09T11:50:00.000-07:00

So much of what we do, say and think is not only a reflection of who we are but also of how we perceive and connect with the world around us. I am often reminded of how reality intrudes into our beings and the life we lead by the simple gestures of Mother Nature.

We do not control much of what we experience. In fact, we are more at the mercy of how life unfolds, and the the invisible hand that works through our daily lives. However, what control we do have, we share a common ground with mankind. And so, it does matter when given a choice.

To experience Life is to 'Live Life' with all its complexities, connections and color. To realize that we are a community at large, living in a world that shares a common purpose which is to "enjoy the ride" on this adventure called Life! For in the end, it is the experiences and the memories that will far out way the impact of the material during our last breath. These experiences will take the form of people we meet along the way, the memories of moments cherished so dearly, and the lasting impressions of time spent in nature and with loved ones.

We are the reflection of our choices and the experiences we encounter in this world.
We are connected through these experiences and we are just like our neighbor looking to ‘Live Life’ - We're Wearin' the World!