Wednesday, October 14, 2009

so important


let go of anger. there are many incredible
things to see. days race by turning into years
so quickly. feel the sun warm your skin on
a cool autumn morning. look at the joy in a
child's eyes when greeted with a smile. we are
mirrors to our children, let them know we
are happy. the moments when they're young are
so important.

Friday, October 9, 2009

John the Prophet


"War is over." I tell my son.
Then I tell him of the man on my tee shirt he calls "Jun."

His journey began in a port town,
where ships brought dreams and rock and roll across the ocean.
He made some friends who helped him change the world
with the music they made.

His fame gave him access to generations
of revolutionaries. This is a time of change.
Forty years ago, John Lennon spoke out against the war in Vietnam.
His voice and dream entered the imaginations of those who listen.

A peaceful revolution awakens this day,
Harvesting the seeds of yesterday as people from around the world gather.
So many of us want Peace, John delivered the message,
we need only "Imagine" its possibility.

He told the world Peace is ours if we want it.
The time has arrived to carry on this message.
Today, President Obama was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace.

As we celebrate the birthday of a peaceful soul,
may John's dream of a world where "War is Over" be the one
President Obama achieves with this award of Peace. The world wants it.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Global warming


Why am I like this?
Where did I originate?
How do I get back?

Dreamer awakens.
Transcending through instructions
for helping the world.

We are connected
to all beings on this earth
living together.

Sharing one mother
recognizing her beauty
life's variety.

Those with wings to soar
fascinate us with true flight
beauty, gracefulness

While those that slither
captivate our deepest thoughts
our closeness to earth

Most of our planet
inhabited by creatures
in rivers and seas

Graciously sharing
their cooling waters to keep
temperatures mild

Monday, May 25, 2009

remembering

I went to a church yesterday that made me think back to childhood memories at our cottage. At this church we sat outside with other families with children. The day was beautiful and Fyn slept on my chest as we listened to the sound system set up outside. A man's voice came on that reminded me of the voices of the cottage.

My grandma's brothers all shared the voice of the speaker who talked of his mission trips to far off lands. His voice so similar to my Uncle Don, my great uncle that passed so suddenly three weeks ago, and his message so familiar. His voice echoing childhood voices I grew up with at cottage functions, but had fallen out of touch with for so many years.

I met Don all over again last fall as he was taking on the challenge of my father. He said he understood the battle with alcoholism my dad has succumbed to and he was willing to look out for this man that was once a baby in his arms. This challenge is understood by many people that have witnessed the damage this disease brings to family and loved ones. I respect my uncle's desire to help this man that refuses help.

Reaching back into those memories took me to a cottage on a lake where so many happy memories were created. My Uncle Gordy returned to my thoughts as I remembered his stories of my Uncle Don. Gordy was my childhood companion, one of the magical people that never seem to grow beyond childhood mentally. We spent summer nights sitting beneath magnificent skies listening to baseball games on the radio. Between innings he talked of his brothers and sisters, their kids, and grandkids. I remember the love in his voice as he talked of his incredible family.

Monday, May 4, 2009

Connections



Origin stretching backwards
living and existing in a natural world.

Like a plant, our roots dig deep into the earth,
nurturing us with minerals and water.

We are organic beings using nature
to live, to grow, to survive.

In environments diverse around the world,
insects, plants, and animals adapt to global changes.

As this beautiful planet
three quarters covered with life giving water
cycles her way through seasons,
Discover connections linking us to all living things.

Please help our Mother,
she's the most beautiful in the Universe.

Our choices impact all beings. Love completely,
filling all with energy and power.

Live in tune with nature. Silence the noise,
create beautiful pieces of art.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Love yourself


A door released from its hinges
floats along the river.

From where I am, I see the nails
Hung to hold reminders
of things to do today

The reminders already
cast aside by river's current,
yet their hooks
remain and rust.

On the river of life's Water,
cleansing the door.
We may all awaken when
we open the door to river's current,
Where we will see the world on the other side,

A simple twist of the river's flow will flip
the door so the hooks and nails we've
Driven beneath the surface
scrape along the bottom.

In time the nails will
simply break off freeing
the raft of reminders.

Time to live today
Love yourself.

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Magic is spring


What if there was
a place in your imagination

Where mice were really dwarves
building underground housing units

When insects flew, fairies
took flight to dust

Where flowers bring
color to a once white blanket
Held in Mother Tortoise's
arms as she rocks her child to sleep

Soon my little child
your time will come to awaken

This world needs love
Rising from its soil
watch the little folk

With eyes open
not as pests

They have much to teach
you have much to learn

Fyn you are the child
of Mother Tortoise's son

Peace awakens from dreams
fresh on a spring morning

Breathing happiness
on winds round the world

What if there was
a place in your imagination.

Magic

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Water as far as I can see,
joining sky on the horizon--
Rising on wings of hope.

A bird in flight feeling free,
exploring without destination
searching while traveling up.

Among clouds looking
beyond tomorrow into future--
seeing magic abound.

Peace for those seeking
to live in the world of nature
Follow the path around

Distractions along the way
Tune out corporate static--
Peacemakers come

Ready to dance and play
A wind of change does speak
Listen for the sound of a drums.

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Rhythm of Life


Life has a rhythm--
drums sounding through forests
calling all to community.

Our nature--to live in peace,
gather within the circle we share,
our being, a gift from the creator.

Mother gives us life,
we grow in her womb
listening to her heartbeat.

Everyday rhythms guide us
as we walk along this path
beside the River of Life.

Sunday, March 1, 2009

window


a window to watch the world,

photographs provide an opportunity to focus,
capturing moments in light

have you heard? there is magic outside,
memories in the making
for those who want to see

step outside doors, free yourself
seek incredible experiences
interacting with love
as we make a difference

Friday, February 20, 2009

peace to all


looking into the world with awe and amazement
seeking each experience with curiosity
eyes wide for discovery
living content

knowing love exists to share
with all beings along this path
a smile leads another to laugh
connecting us to everywhere

awakening into a new age
children in far off lands
where winds move the sands
we understand and wage

peace to all

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

looking up


going through these days
with blinders, watching feet fall
a new world awaits,

morning brings clear skies
perfect for walking outside
better for thinking

tuning out all noise
following birds as they dance
happily through trees

magic surrounds us
beside the river we are
listening to life

looking up we see
blue skies through eternity
peace to us all

Monday, February 9, 2009

dear reader


dear reader,
welcome to a journey of peace awakening,
in the following pages, words and pictures are used
to describe some of this season's passage around the sun.

as the snow begins to melt, i feel a change in winds
i want to begin to write a story backwards
from finish to beginning in honor of this format
during the next couple moon cycles.

i will also be writing a story for my classroom,
one i share with them each week.

many of the ideas i have written in peace awakening
are calling for me to return in an editing process
as well as for future stories.

peace to all
thank you, tommy

for those who have enjoyed my words and pictures
thank you for your comments and support
more is on the way

Thursday, February 5, 2009

Magical Beings


Walking along this path each day with Fyn, I am reminded often of magical beings surrounding us. Each season is full of its own magicians. The fairies rising in spring brightens the world with their planting of flowers. The dwarfs celebration of summer nurtures Mother Earth creating bounty. The gnomes emergence in autumn to put things in order are quickly covered by the falling leaves. The winter elves are often the most difficult to see for they blend so well with the snow, but magnificent when encountered.

We have celebrated each season now with Fyn. Following his eyes enables me to see things in a new perspective. There is awe and wonder everywhere, it is up to me to be aware.

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Our path home


Every now and then, step off the beaten path.
Destination may not be clear, and may feel
like walking among the clouds. Each step
leads to an aftermath
of decisions, in search of perfect reality.
Find and become adept
living in the world of all beings.

Examine the journey, find peace
discover the path to follow
listen and create another.
Love given freely leads to Ahimsa,
Open the clouds and enter another realm,
find people living as they did long ago
let go of your self and be.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Gnomes stopped by


The other day, there were several guests by the path as we arrived home. Seems there were some loud machines with masked riders zipping along the forest floor. One of our guests, DaVito, calls them "snosquitos" because of the annoying buzzing noise and carbon monoxide stink they make in the woods.

I relayed our experience the previous day with the snosquitos, and how they arrived as Fyn fell asleep in the labyrinth. The gnomes were happy we managed to shoo them off, but they were mad the whine of the snosquito's engines awakened Fyn from his peaceful dreams. These little fellows were so upset they wanted to go create some serious mischief. I convinced them that we were over it and invited them inside to warm up a bit. These friendly little folk told of their ordeals and the misery of dealing with those machines.

The moment they entered the house they stopped moving as the cats came around the corner. Victoria made a green bed for the little ones to nap in and set it out of reach of Max and Lucky. She tried to take their picture, but the camera's flash changed their complexion.

They were still here the morning of Fyn's birthday party so I invited them to stay. The gnomes had a great time meeting Clint, Taj, Britton, Nadia, and Sonja. As Fyn's friends were leaving our forest guests asked if they might accompany their new friends to their homes across the land.

We thought it was a fabulous idea because they would be able to escape those hideous snosquitos. It will be fun to see them in the spring when they return to help plant the flowers.

Monday, February 2, 2009

icicles


Inside the warmth of a fire
creating heat, generating energy while
iridescence descends outside
captivating our attention,
learn to be magical,
exist in nature feeling
sunshine throughout

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Days like this


Fyn sleeps on my chest,
Sunshine washes over us

It feels good to be outside,
a slight chill of winter and re-energized warmth of the sun

Four deer approach, making their way into the river,
they stand watching us

Our peaceful connection
linking different beings in silence,

Awareness of all around us,
their time arrives to continue on

Our paths diverge
to meet again at river's bend

Sun shines upon us,
I love days like this.

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Happy Birthday

A year ago, I could not stop smiling from within. My soul has not stopped since that day. My eyes are open to love, Fyn. Talking with grandma and great grandma tonight reminds me that I am in line with past generations and future generations.

We are one family with many different trees. Trace our lineage and connections link us to so many others with different ways. Fyn, we share this planet with many other beings. We emerged from the River of Life many moons ago. She is our mother. Our ancestors honored her so we could share in her beauty. Last year on this day, you emerged into this world full of light. The sun made it through the windows to light your face.

I had a dream a few years before you were born. I wrote it down to share with all, but you in particular on this first birthday. You are my peace. I love you.

Legend of Mother Tortoise

Mother Tortoise emerges from the River of Life early one morning. Bright light greets her as she reaches the surface. This light is unlike anything she has ever known. She descends into the water again and begins telling Salmon of the brilliant light that nearly blinded her as she broke the surface of the water. Salmon tells her she is foolish, there is no such thing. She asks Salmon to follow, but he tells her to go away and not to bother him anymore.

She swims on a ways before encountering Beaver. When she tells Beaver of the bright light, he is interested and asks her a few questions. She asks him to follow and he says he is too busy now, but perhaps if she were to come back later, he would have time.

On she swims until she finds Heron using her great wings as paddles and her long legs as propellers. Mother Tortoise tells Heron what she has seen and asks her to come see the light. Heron is intrigued and follows Tortoise to the surface.

Together they reach the surface, and Heron gazes in amazement. She asks Mother Tortoise how she found this beautiful place. She tells Heron how she saw the bright light and knew there truly is more to life than living underwater. Heron shares this feeling and longing to live life to her full potential.

Heron wants to try something now that she's on the surface of the water and asks Tortoise if she will let her dry off her feathers while resting on top of Tortoise's shell. Once her feathers dry, she begins to flap her wings. Launching from her friend's back, she lifts herself into the sky and feels her true calling.

When she flies so far that Mother Tortoise looks like a speck of sand, she turns back to find her friend. She lands on Tortoise's back and tells her all she has seen from high above the River of Life. She tells her how for the first time she feels free to be herself and she thinks all the other swimmers with feathers will probably feel the same. Mother Tortoise and Heron head off to find more birds to tell about the secret of flight. The first they come upon is Eagle, who is very interested in what Heron tells him. He follows them to the surface and undergoes the same drying process as Heron. Lifting from Mother Tortoise's shell he soars up to the clouds and to this day continues to fly in the highest of clouds to the north. Then Condor returns to the surface with them, dries her huge wings and takes off to the south. Heron watches her thinking Condor is love in motion. They find more birds and tell them the secret of flight. Some birds love to soar, while others decide to stay near the River of Life.

Mother Tortoise wants to tell more about this splendid discovery and finds Dog and Cat swimming deep in the river. She tells them to follow her to the surface where she shows them the brilliant landscape. Cat is happy to be free of the water so she can chase the birds once again. Dog says thanks and stays close to Tortoise and the river.

As time passes, more animals emerge from the River of Life after hearing stories from Mother Tortoise and her followers. One day many years later Tortoise is swimming along with Dog and Heron as they come upon an animal neither has seen before. It is awkward in the water and does not understand what Tortoise is saying although she speaks the language all animals understand. Heron is nervous about this new creature and leaves to stand watch over the river.

After much confusion Mother Tortoise is able to lead this strange animal to the surface. Neither Tortoise nor Dog know what kind of animal this is because it has neither feather nor fur. Tortoise draws a picture in the sand to show this strange animal about the things she has seen. On the shore she draws a sun and motions to the sky for the animal to see. Then she draws thirteen moons inside the circle of the sun to show the many different moons she has seen.

The animal's eyes show intelligence and in time begins to understand what Mother Tortoise is drawing. Dog takes and instant liking to it and calls it woman in the strange language he speaks out of the water. Dog and Mother Tortoise can tell Woman is happy to be out of the water, but that she is lonely too. Mother Tortoise dives deeper in the water than ever before, searching for a companion for woman. She swims for eight moons before she comes upon something similar, and once again she cannot make this animal understand the language all animals speak. After many gestures, she convinces it to follow her to the surface where Woman and Dog are waiting.

When they arrive at the surface, Mother Tortoise is surprised to find Woman and Dog talking. Somehow they've found a way to communicate in a language Mother Tortoise has never heard. This new animal has the same brown skin as woman, but is not nearly as beautiful so Dog calls him Man. Woman and Man look at each other as they stand on the bank of the river, and Mother Tortoise who does not see much difference in them calls them human.

Mother Tortoise spends seven years teaching Woman and Man about all the animals she has helped find their way from the depths of the River of Life. The process is long because she must draw pictures to help them understand. To this day the people of the land look to Mother Tortoise for wisdom and guidance.

Mother Tortoise teaches Woman and Man about the River of Life. She is patient and tells them of the need to move slowly. She loves them and with Dog's help is able to show them the foods they will need to grow healthy and strong. She tells them about the trees and plants that grow on the banks of the River of Life. Since the people do not have a shell, fur, or feathers she helps them create a dwelling for themselves using the branches and bark from the trees. Mother Tortoise teaches them about the seasons and how weather changes. She helps them understand the moons and how they are useful for measuring time. She teaches them about the sun and its importance for them to survive outside the River of Life.

Woman and Man are grateful to Mother Tortoise and thank her for the wisdom she shares with them. They love her as a good child loves a mother and for many years they stay close to her to continue their learning. Mother Tortoise teaches them which animals may be hunted for food, and how it is important to respect that animal for the nourishment it will give them. She explains to them the way plants and animals are connected in the circle of life. She draws elaborate pictures of animals eating plants and people eating animals and plants. Dog is an ever-faithful friend to Woman and Man, helping them during the hunt. The humans respect Mother Tortoise's teaching and begin drawing their own pictures of the things they learn. In the beginning many of these are only copies of Mother Tortoise's drawings, but as time continues they become more detailed.

She teaches Woman and Man about creating new life. Since Woman is stronger, Mother Tortoise guides her through birth and nine moons later a child is born. The child is named Peace. She is small and helpless, and Mother Tortoise tells them this is so Woman and Man will learn that life is slow and there are many things to learn. She also wants them to learn how to take care of their children so they will be able to take care of everything outside the River of Life.

Man is thrilled with the power Woman has to give birth and knows she should be treated with the same respect as Mother Tortoise. he takes it upon himself to be the provider of food and shelter since woman is the provider of life.

Life continues and the people remember and respect Mother Tortoise, knowing she will lead them in the ways of life. They respect all animals and plants creating festivals and ceremonies to give thanks. Dog continues to be a good and loyal friend to the people as they live together in happiness.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

A year ago today,

A year ago we were awaiting his arrival. Trying to find comfort in a hospital room was nearly impossible as monitors interrupted the flow. The world of man and its devotion to technology is a strange place for someone created by man and woman to be born.

On that night a year ago, forty hours seemed to pass without sleep while you labored with Fyn. You worked so hard for his entrance into this world. The amount of effort sustained by mothers giving birth is truly amazing.

Excitement flooded me as I wondered if we'd have a boy or a girl. How much longer would we have to fight the doctor's desire to accelerate the process? Keeping our eyes on the prize was all we could do.

In the end, Fyn decided January 28 was not to be the day of his birthday. Now it is our family labor day. Today I honor you for the brilliant work you did in Room 1044. He is truly amazing. Thank you, I love you.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

labyrinth


Everything we desire at our fingertips,
Wherever we look realization springs.
Manifestations of abundance we choose,
Recognizing we brought it to be.

Being in the moment with awareness,
Creates our role in the universe.
Become one with Mother Nature,
Restoring dreams will guide our action.

Allowing us to live and love,
Kindness shared among all, brings energy.
Choosing this path to peace,
Leads us to happiness.

Monday, January 26, 2009

A tree beside the river


A tree, beside a river
winding through the forest
Standing tall, drinking in her waters
she becomes part of me
and I become part of her,

Connecting in circles
stillness and calm meet
motion always circulating.
I stand here, a tree
beside a beautiful river.

She creates photographs
capturing moments of reflection.
Pieces of time to share
opening links to remembering
beauty and life's magic.


Sunday, January 25, 2009

Love


Love is like the river
able to reflect sunlight on its surface
accepting snow without resistance
the river continues to flow and turn.

Jump in it washes over
carrying the body with purpose
moving forward without a backward glance
teaching lessons we all must learn.

Love has no beginning--
meandering from an eternal source
as a river twisting along
imprinting its mark upon the land

Love shapes us and keeps us growing
we may try to resist it of course
but we'll find its currents too strong
for us to ever make a stand.

Love has no end--
destination being part of the journey
as the river merges with the sea
it continues to circulate

As freshwater and saltwater blend
moving forward beyond eternity
our love will forever be
which is what makes us great.

We have the ability to understand
that obstructions and river teeth
can never stop the flow,
we travel forward, going around,

filling up if the way's been dammed,
seeking passage on currents beneath.
Love has the power to help us go
when those we love return to ground.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

peace


searching for peace, finding it in the middle of nowhere
realizing it is within me and I can give it away

remember the conversation we were having while sitting around the fire
you told me you had a million dollar idea that someday you'd share
my response was to give you my million dollar idea for free

it is really pretty simple, love
laugh at yourself while falling. share smiles, be compassionate
quiet the noise surrounding you, now be

happiness, remember it is ours to choose
walk in circles, touching those you meet along the path
calling peace everywhere

Friday, January 23, 2009

Rising Sun


Rising sun, a star
brightening the entire world
messenger of hope.

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Interconnected


Feeling connected
my consciousness awakens
tuning out the noise.

Becoming one with all,
listening as river flows
I can hear nature.

Imagine a tree
standing beside a river
breathing in and out,

Returning magic
From the air we are sharing
Interconnected.

A path awaits us
where the sun rises each day
with guides seeking peace.

Understanding love,
being here now, happiness
We are one people.

Ancestors will rise
To help us in our progress
Their spirit shines bright.

Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Obamabowlarama


We went bowling with friends last night to celebrate the inauguration. There were about 20 adults and a bunch of kids filling the little bowling alley. It was fun taking Fyn for his first bowling experience. Wonderful to be out with a bunch of cool people that understand the importance of Barack Obama leading us into an Age of Hope. Many of these people have similar ideas about the environment and building a sustainable world for our children. They are our community, the kind of people that will do anything to help when it is needed.

Fyn had so much fun running around on the lanes. Mastering the art of clapping for everyone's strike, he was the perfect cheerleader. Everyone loves his attention and he is able to create laughter in all. It is truly amazing to see the way he interacts with adults and children. I am sure we will head to the bowling alley again. Maybe we'll make it a January 20, Obama Day tradition.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Hope


Hope is in the world
time for change awakening
we are one people.


Barack Obama's speech today says it nicely. During the past few moons he has awakened hope in people. Today we are waking up to a new world. and realizing we share this planet with many others. Change in the way humans consume energy is a priority now. Peace is awakening as we open our hands to the clenched fist. Good luck, Mr. President. Shine on, we are one people.

Monday, January 19, 2009

whisperer awakening



"Good morning world, " Peace calls out to the new day. Awakening in the dewy beach grass, she stretches her arms toward the sun rising in the east. She cannot believe she has slept as long as she has, but she feels revitalized.

A deer is grazing on long blades of grass as her fawn stands nearby with eyes gazing longingly in Peace's direction. Peace smiles affectionately to the young animal.

Leaving her mother's side, the fawn wanders over to Peace, who sits with her legs crossed. The young deer rubs her long neck along Peace's arm until her hand rests on top of the head.

"How are you, my little friend," she says as she strokes her lovingly. "A new day is dawning, enjoy every moment of the long life awaiting you."

The doe finishes her breakfast and gracefully approaches Peace. She rubs her neck along her child's back. "I was telling your sweet little girl to enjoy a long happy life," Peace tells her.

The mother's ears rise in surprise. "It has been long since one of your kind has spoken the language of all," she tells Peace. "How is it you have this knowledge?"

"My people have always been able to speak to all,"Peace replies. "We learned from Mother
Tortoise long ago."

"My herd learned from Mother Tortoise as well. We still have this knowledge and speak to all who walk on four legs. But you are the first with two legs I've met that understands the language of all."

Peace wonders how long she's been asleep. When she lay down, there were many people speaking the language Mother Tortoise teaches in this land.

"What do you mean you haven't spoken with my kind? My people have always talked with the deer. Even during the hunt we give thanks for the bounty offered us."

"That was long ago. Now people hunt us without ceremony and offer us no thanks when they kill one of the herd."

A tear rolls down Peace's cheek. Fawn sticks her tongue out, licking the tear. It is an act of forgiveness, granted by innocence. Peace gently caresses Fawn. She knows she has slumbered too long.

Rising to her feet, Peace knows it is time for her to call out to all.

"I remember meeting her grandfather. She is the child from beside the river." Mikel loves traveling along time's continuum. With grandfather's help, he has seen and been many things.

"The last thing I remember you saying was, "You are life, be aware of all life. Today we are deer, observers of the forest. Listen to whisperers.

"What is a whisperer Grandfather?"
"A whisperer is someone capable of listening through the noise. They are the ones that rise when leaders are necessary in the human world.

"Peace is an important part of the future. She will guide men and women to follow their hearts back to the nature of the world," Grandfather says.

"I enjoyed being a deer today Grandfather, but why couldn't we have approached Peace as we are?"

"We could have child, I wanted you to experience the peacefulness of being a deer. They are a powerful being with a great deal of magic. They will always be your guide to finding
whisperers."


Sunday, January 18, 2009

I am love, Grandfather


Looking over the water, Grandfather sees Mikel joining her waves.
He thinks what an extraordinary apprentice his grandson has been.
The boy learns quickly to become each element.

Grandfather taps Mikel on the shoulder.
The boy looks up with eyes open wide, "Are we going?" he asks.

"Yes," Grandfather answers, "we will travel a great distance today."

"I think I know where you are taking me grandfather," Mikel says.
"You've always said it would be a special day.
I am big now so I will not even ask where we are going today."

He smiles at the boy, "You are right, it is a special day,
and grandson I forget how you are all grown up.
Thinking back to when I was eleven, I'm sure I knew it all too.

"Now close your eyes and breathe, you are the sun lighting the world.
All is as it should be. Feel warmth circulating through all you contact.
Today we are fire spreading heat, providing energy.

"Focus on love while becoming one with the universe.
All you touch is marvelous, Mikel. Shine brightly,
your rays give hope to many."

Mikel feels intense heat rushing through his body.
Grandfather's voice pushes him
beyond where they've gone in their work before.

He looks over his body seeing flames connecting him
to all and realizes he is without attachment.

"I am love, Grandfather," he yells as heat surrounds him.
He feels completely free. Being one with fire is
more incredible than he could ever have imagined.

Grandfather watches how masterfully Mikel radiates.
Pride for his grandson fills him as he calls to the sky,
"I love you, grandson."

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Welcoming Peace

Feeling beautiful sunlight shining on him, Mikel slowly opens his eyes. When he'd closed them his grandfather was telling him to imagine he is a stone standing proudly in the river.

In his dream, time passes imperceptibly. Continuing to breathe in and out he listens as his grandfather whispers instructions through the trees.

Many animals have passed his way. He watches each with intrigue, marveling in their grace. Dog has become one of his favorites to watch as she splashes with pups. Heron's wise demeanor as she lifts on wings inspires him daily, but Mother Tortoise is his favorite of all.

Days like this are special. When she comes to tell stories, all the animals of the forest gather by the riverside. Salmon and many fish gather in the shallows, while birds fill the trees, Mother Tortoise rises to speak.

Mikel loves to listen as she weaves her stories. He feels connection to everyone. There is much excitement among the animals. A birth among the two Mother Tortoise calls humans.

He remembers his grandfather's voice telling all to gather beside the river for Peace would be arriving soon. He thinks about the first time he heard Mother Tortoise talking with the humans. They had not understood anything spoken in our language.

They've come a long way from those days when Dog had to translate the words of love for them. Now here they are with their child in their arms. Mikel feels the joy in all the animals as Mother Tortoise speaks,

"These birds, fish, animals, stones,plants and trees gather to celebrate your child, Peace. You have learned a great deal about the River of Life. You've grown strong and healthy, and learned to measure time through the moons and our connection to the circle of life.

"Now you have created life and your child is beautiful. All of us gathered before you, pledge our support as the child grows. Bring her to me, and we will celebrate the joy of new life with you."

Mikel watches as they step into the water. The child is so small and yet something glows so strong in her being. Mikel feels all the animals making this distinction as well. He looks into her face and is greeted with a smile.

The feeling in the smile is incredible and Mikel finds himself growing with happiness in her presence. He breathes in the sunshine lighting this beautiful morning, as they all welcome Peace to the world.

Friday, January 16, 2009

"Manke naa lye autien?"


"Grandfather, where are we going today?"
"We are following the path Mikel,"

"But where does it lead? We've gone on a thousand walks and you always answer me the same. What is the path and why does it feel stronger in some places?"

Grandfather smiles at the questions. These walks are so enjoyable because of his grandson's endless curiosity, always asking for names of destinations,
details on how we'll arrive, requests for directions.

"Alright Mikel, if you really must know where we are going today,
you must close your eyes and continue walking."

"But grandfather I will not be able to see where I am going,
I'm not very good at walking with my eyes closed.
Remember how I fell in the river last spring."

"I remember. You simply were not watching where you were going.
There is a difference between closing your eyes and not watching."

Mikel closes his eyes slowly following the trail beside the river.
After only a few steps he feels a tree branch brushing his ankle.
Opening his eyes he scans the ground for the branch,
but there is nothing there.

"Why did you open your eyes?
There is no branch rubbing against your leg."

"How did you know I thought there was a branch grandfather?"
"Your thoughts are out there in the open, child, they are easy to read.

"Now I want you to close your eyes and breathe through your nose.
Feel your toes sink into the ground. The trees are calling you,
so this morning we are trees.

"Imagine your toes spreading beneath the soil like roots.
Drink in fresh water to strengthen your trunk.

"Let your hands sink beside you until you feel the sun on your face.
Feel its warmth run deep through you.
As it combines with the water, you will feel magic occur.
Allow your arms and hands to move where they will
remembering they are your branches filling with leaves."

Mikel follows the directions his grandfather gives.
The feeling his grandfather calls magic is amazing.
He begins feeling the glow spread through his body to his fingertips.
He connects with everything in the forest.

Seasons cycle past in the blink of his eyes.
His glow feels stronger as he listens to his grandfather's voice
whispering instructions. His eyes begin to open.

"Where are we going?" he tries to ask,
but the wind hushes his thoughts.

His arms sway and Mikel feels magic all around.
It's as if his fingers have intertwined with all the trees of the forest.

Powerfully, he stands drinking the water through his toes
listening to the river.

In the distance, Mikel hears voices different than his grandfathers.
He realizes they are approaching.
He tries to lift his eyelids to see who it is.
He can barely make out the shape of what looks to be a boy and his father.
There is laughter in their voices.

"Manke naa lye autien?" he says
and the little boy looks right at him.

He feels as if he is looking into a mirror.
A smile greets him.

thank you elves of the grey-company organization for translation

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Happy Bithday Mr. King

Brother just called, always good to talk with you. As we were talking, I remembered that today is the actual birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. Happy Birthday Mr. King and thank you so much for the peace you helped foster. Your courage in the face of opposition is inspirational. Your belief in non-violence and your steadfastness to see all men as equals is motivating. Your speeches are still pertinent today, especially with the inauguration of Mr. Obama next week. I write the quote I read you on the phone, Rob. Inspire peace to all people


"But it was an uneasy peace in which the Negro was forced patiently to submit to insult, injustice and exploitation. It was a negative peace. True peace is not merely the absence of some negative force--tension, confusion, or war; it is the presence of some positive force--justice, goodwill and brotherhood."

The Essential Writings and Speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr.
-J. Washington

Return soon, I love you

Which room should I enter? They all seem empty without you here. Arriving home, the thrill of my world is the joy in your smile. Words cannot express the amount of love I have for you. Remembering a time when you were not a part of my life is difficult, because you are and have always been a part of me.

I also was born last January on a cold windy day in a tiny room. Taking you from our midwife's arms, a connection awakened in me I'd never known possible. Inside our little cave in that giant mountain, I held you in my arms and smiled because you existed. Euphoria rushed through me as I placed you on your mother.

When we returned to the riverside, I could not wait to walk with you to the river. As we emerge from the cover of trees leading to our magical spot, the sun clears the clouds from his sight to take a look at you. The song,"Here comes the sun" is on my lips as I open my jacket enough for his rays to touch your face for the first time.

We've followed the path together more than three hundred times since that day. Each time we arrive we walk the circle four times, looking to the east, north, west, and south thanking those who came before us.

This world means more to me now than it did one year ago. There are many things I would like to see happen in our world because you deserve the opportunity to swim in unpolluted lakes and rivers while you breathe fresh air. You deserve to live in a world without wars. My life I dedicate to you Fyn. My purpose is to teach peace so you may walk in both the world of nature and the world of man as I have done.

Return soon, I love you.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

swimming

We went to the swimming pool at the mountain yesterday. Fyn had so much fun splashing around in the water. We all had fun reconnecting with the water and the joy of being part of it.

As a child, I wanted to be a dolphin or a salmon. I remember spending hours in my aunt and uncle's pool, but what I looked most forward to were the days in the lake at the cottage. When in our pristine lake I could open my eyes and explore, imagining I was part of the water. When I'd go fishing with my dad and grandpa, I would fish for about an hour then ask if I could start swimming in from the blue line(drop off about 300 yards from shore). When they finished fishing three hours later, I'd still be swimming around in my pretend world.

Sometimes I feel like I am still in that pretend world, but the funny thing is, it is my real world. Those moments in my childhood were more real to me because I was my most authentic self. When near water, I cannot stay out because it feels as if I am completely myself. Living near the rivers and lakes that are plentiful in our area, I am swimming from April when the water temperature is probably no more than 50 until October. It is difficult to keep my eyes open under the chilly water in spring and fall, but my imagination opens and I am the salmon of my youth.

While watching the salmon run this past October I woke up to the knowledge that we live for future generations by our actions today. Although there was a slight chill to the air and a definite chill to the water I had to swim with them. I jumped in and when I got out I wrote the following poem.

River flowing peacefully
crickets hum as birds sing
overlapped every so often
by percussive slaps of
salmon's tail. The story of life,
of nature, of love, of longevity.

Salmon
deep pool drifting
swimming upstream once more
returning, reuniting, recreating

pulling your way to shallows
playfully chasing, rubbing bellies along
the floor--drifting backward to the pool

Long journey come to an end
New life begins

Your longevity comes through your children.

Salmon swimming so your
future will carry on, connected
to us in many ways. River was
created for you as it was for us
and all beings of this Earth.

To share our beautiful world
with future generations--
for we grow old and pass on
our wisdom of life and death.

Beavers building beautiful
lodges for their young
this is what we're meant to be

Neighbors to salmon swimming upstream
in the river of life.

Our longevity comes through our children.

Mother Tortoise is the producer of life--
she is our Mother, we must respect her
protecting her from harm
Her offerings are plentiful
but we cannot take too much

Humans dig out her mountains
refilling them with refuse
It is time to live for her
as we were given her.

Our future generations deserve our thoughts,
we are in a constant state of
returning, reuniting, recreating--

For when our long journey comes to an end
New life begins, our children will carry on.

Our longevity comes through them.

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Snow day awakening



When I was a little boy, I remember having one snow day for my entire elementary existence. It was one of the greatest days of my eight year old life. Running up the hill with sled in hand, I knocked on my best friend, Tim's door. Within five minutes we were outside again, the only two creators of footprints in our world. No one had been out to shovel so our sidewalk became the greatest sledding hill of all time. Up and down we traveled Colorado Street racing each other in our freedom from concerns. Nothing mattered on that snowy day so long ago, except the joy we felt as we lived in the moment. By the time we were called inside to warm up three other friends had joined us in our adventure. We all gulped our hot chocolate and begged to be released from the confines of inside. On that snowy day we must have packed a thousand snowballs, created a village of snowmen, and celebrated the magnificence of a day off to its fullest.

Today we are celebrating our fourth snow day of the year here in the north country. Fyn woke up around 6 so excited for another day. I threw three logs in the wood stove and started making a pot of Justice Blend. While it brewed, I lay down on the floor to begin the day with yoga as Fyn played with his wood stacker. My chest seemed the perfect play area for him as he placed the rings on the center pole over and over. Each time a look of joy spread across his face as if to say, "I did it." I smiled as I continued to breathe in and out, thankful for this opportunity to share in his delight. Every so often, he'd rise on wobbly legs to race around in circles laughing at the kitties before returning to our yoga session.

He has returned to bed so I sit down to write until he wakes, which probably won't be long. In fact I think I hear him now. Time to enjoy our snow day.

Monday, January 12, 2009

9:18 Be here now


Moments tick by throughout the day and I find myself following routines I have established. A month and a half ago I decided to discipline myself to writing everyday on this blog. For about a week straight 9:18 was the time I'd find myself arriving at the computer to write. It was as if I was being drawn into this world. It is funny because this is about the only time I involve myself with technology. We have three clocks in the house all set to different times, the stove, the computer, and an alarm clock. Time has held little meaning for me in my life, but there is something about seeing 9:18 that signals me to write.

Earlier this evening, Fyn and I went for a walk, and as we arrived at the bend in the river a heron took flight from a tree. These are such beautiful birds and I feel fortunate that we see them as often as we do. They arrive in my dreams leading me into flight on giant wings. Each time we see one I feel it is a messenger revealing a piece of the magical world we have entered. A few months ago as Fyn and I were sitting at the river I started writing my poem/mantra "Be here now" and Heron arrived beside the river. It was an incredible day because it was drizzling, salmon were running, and we watched what looked to be a storm rolling in. The colors were beautiful as we sat beneath a tree that gave us shelter. As I said the words "Be here now," repeated them, and then started writing them this majestic bird walked downstream to us. I put my pen down and kept saying "be here now" as I breathed in and out. For about a quarter of an hour, Heron, Fyn and I shared the moment. The most beautiful sunshine emerged and Fyn started to stir from his sleep, which seemed to signal Heron that it was time to take flight. Since then, I have found it to be a great way to focus my mind on this place where I am. I include it here now.

Be here now be here now be here now be here now be here now be here
Now be here now be here now be here now be here now be here now be
Yesterday's gone, now is here, this is where
in touch with nature wherever we are
is more important than where we were
yesterday--each day is life for us
we can choose to lock our self away
inside little boxes or we can release
into nature--we were fooled into
believing we were part of a machine
corporations created as fuel to run
the world. We are the power when
we are in touch with our mother,
fuels we consume come from her and
they are the blood that give us life. We must
stop tearing her flesh with bombs and
honor her with love, be here now be here now
be here now be here now be here now be here

Sunday, January 11, 2009

Walking in a full moon, awakening



Clear crisp night air invites a mystery walk
Full moon guides on a path of glimmering snow
Walk as if in a dream, shadows scurry across the forest floor
Magic circles, powerful beneath stars,
illumination sparks imagination while silence fills the world
Arrival and destination meet intersecting peace and love.

A message to you friend, travel peaceful circles
We all move along revolutions, of sun and moon
Always circulating as air and spirit fill us
Connect our presence with our Mother
Drink in her waters beside the river
and return home to warmth by fireside.

Our time has come to bring messages of hope
Darkness can easily fool us into believing
Realities lurk in the shadows
But they can not hold us in an absence of light
We radiate eternal brightness
Guiding others along this path.

Climb atop the hill, feel moon's glow
Shine upon all who follow, leading to enlightenment
Movements chase reality, inspire creativity
This glow upon the river glistens perfection
Arrive in this moment able to see beauty,
Eyes open wide, awaken to happiness.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

breathe inspiration

Living in a world of irrational thoughts
trying to develop inner-self challenges the mind,
Humans attaching significance to the body
limiting space to a material world.

Reality shows humans behave more
civilly to one another when not on screen,
Behind the scenes communities are born
thriving in their exercises in compassion.

Becoming a free thinker in the world of
mind control has its difficulties, and
yet it is possible to turn off the noise
tune into rhythms of life.

Learning to sit beside a river
watching its eternal flow--
words can be used as description
creating awareness for others.

But this moment can never be captured
unless eyes are opened wide,
in knowledge of the present
linking with yesterdays and tomorrows.

Experience the here and now
feeling the chill of winter
Mother provides an opportunity to
hear river roll over branches

Awakening with sunshine
love gives, as this day flows
peace emerges through
trees as we breathe inspiration.