peace awakens

Revise conforming thoughts

2010-03-13T13:42:00.005-07:00

Live beyond irrational thoughts
try to develop inner self-- challenge the mind.

Humans attach significance to the body, limiting space to the material world.
Reality shows-humans behave more civilly to one another when not on screen.

Behind the scenes, communities are born thriving in exercises in compassion

Become a free thinker in the world of mind control,
it is possible to turn off the noise, travel an amazing path,
pick up cosmic soulmates to share this walk, learn to sit beside a river
watch its eternal flow—

Words as description,
this moment cannot be captured until eyes
open wide in knowledge of the present.

Experience the here and now
feel the chill of winter Mother provides,
listen as river rolls over branches,
watch flowers nurtured by spring rains along her banks blossom
enjoy the warmth of summer days by cooling in her waters,
notice the green on trees, knowing autumn will usher in change,

Awaken in peace.

advice

2010-02-05T18:40:00.002-07:00

be in peace with all
find none to call enemy
seek strength in silence

so important

2009-10-14T18:21:00.005-07:00

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.

John the Prophet

2009-10-09T19:46:00.004-07:00

"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.

Global warming

2009-07-06T18:54:00.004-07:00

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

remembering

2009-05-25T18:16:00.003-07:00

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.

Connections

2009-05-04T18:08:00.004-07:00

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.

Love yourself

2009-04-15T19:20:00.007-07:00

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.

Magic is spring

2009-03-31T13:10:00.005-07:00

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

2009-03-11T18:26:00.005-07:00

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.

Rhythm of Life

2009-03-08T17:55:00.005-07:00

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.

window

2009-03-01T20:18:00.001-07:00

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

peace to all

2009-02-20T19:39:00.000-07:00

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

looking up

2009-02-17T19:07:00.000-07:00

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

dear reader

2009-02-09T19:57:00.000-07:00

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

Magical Beings

2009-02-05T19:20:00.001-07:00

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.

Our path home

2009-02-04T18:37:00.000-07:00

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.

Gnomes stopped by

2009-02-03T18:44:00.000-07:00

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.

icicles

2009-02-02T17:37:00.000-07:00

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

Days like this

2009-02-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

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.

Happy Birthday

2009-01-29T18:28:00.001-07:00

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.

A year ago today,

2009-01-28T19:56:00.000-07:00

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.

labyrinth

2009-01-27T19:21:00.000-07:00

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.

A tree beside the river

2009-01-26T19:46:00.000-07:00

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.

Love

2009-01-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

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.

peace

2009-01-24T20:12:00.000-07:00

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

Rising Sun

2009-01-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

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

Interconnected

2009-01-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

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.

Obamabowlarama

2009-01-21T18:43:00.000-07:00

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.

Hope

2009-01-20T20:38:00.001-07:00

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.

whisperer awakening

2009-01-19T20:10:00.000-07:00

"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."

I am love, Grandfather

2009-01-18T18:22:00.000-07:00

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."

Welcoming Peace

2009-01-17T10:12:00.000-07:00

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.

"Manke naa lye autien?"

2009-01-16T19:38:00.000-07:00

"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

Happy Bithday Mr. King

2009-01-15T18:14:00.000-07:00

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

2009-01-15T15:43:00.000-07:00

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.

swimming

2009-01-14T12:49:00.001-07:00

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.

Snow day awakening

2009-01-13T05:39:00.000-07:00

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.

9:18 Be here now

2009-01-12T19:01:00.001-07:00

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

Walking in a full moon, awakening

2009-01-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

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.

breathe inspiration

2009-01-10T09:49:00.000-07:00

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.

A bad day at school

2009-01-09T16:08:00.000-07:00

My day begins telling a physically disabled 5 year old in my class to stop pretending to shoot kids that enter the classroom with the Lego gun he has made. I call him over so we can discuss the inappropriateness of this behavior, something I have had to do with a couple of the boys in my class too often this year. He tells me that yesterday when he was absent to go to a funeral they stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge where there was this game with guns and how cool it was to shoot the bad guys. He is usually one of the sweetest kids in class, but like most boys these days all he wants to do is play video games, especially the shooting games. I realize how futile my words, "We don't pretend to shoot guns at school" is for these 5 and 6 year olds. For them killing is pretend on a video screen.

Five minutes later, an emotionally impaired little boy comes through the door carrying his copy of 'Mini Soldiers.' By the looks of the case, it has been handled and watched many times. This is a child I have struggled with all year because he is out of control, arms flying everywhere, a frequent violator in the pretending to shoot other kids group. When asked what he did the night before, his answer is usually "watched a movie or played video games." He wants us to watch the movie today and hands it to me. Looking at the cover I can already guarantee that I will not be showing this propaganda today, but I flip it over to see the rating, which is PG-13. He keeps telling me it is really good and I keep telling him no way.

So I decide to bring up the topic about how guns and killing are not appropriate at school. The boys in my class try to tell me how cool guns are, but I am not convinced by their arguments. I try to get through to them that guns kill and should not be played with, but for them everybody they see getting shot gets back up and is there again in the next game. I change the subject and ask what kinds of movies they like. I am horrified to get the response "scary ones" by more than half the class. I decide to end this discussion and try one more time to emphasize how I do not like guns or war movies.

The day goes by slowly and the end of the day approaches. We go to the library and computer lab right before going home. I take half my class into the computer lab and find that someone has placed an army, navy, air force, marine, or national guard mouse pad at each computer. I am disgusted by the sight of them in school and will have them removed from the lab before my class goes in there again. Their placement in the computer lab confirms a thought I'd been tinkering with all day, the military plays a part in the development of the shooting video games my kids are hooked on and has influenced the movie industry to create movies like 'Mini Soldiers.'

I am reminded of Jerry Mander's book, 'In the Absence of the Sacred' and his statement that governments and corporations benefit the most from inventions like the television and computer. It has been a while since I read the book, but I recommend it to everyone.

I am disheartened by the messages we are allowing children to be subjected to in this world. They are our future and as long as marketers continue to target them with shiny packages filled with violence, children are going to grow up thinking that guns are cool and that war is necessary. When the president declared war there was overwhelming support because it was packaged by the media as necessary and patriotic. While going to peace marches we were yelled at by people on the street that we were unpatriotic and if we didn't like this country we should leave it. Now trillions of dollars later with idiotic wars of greed in two countries, many Americans have changed their view on the necessity of these wars. During the past six to eight years grown ups have been educated that war is not cool or awesome. Unfortunately, the next generation will be ripe for the plucking when they grow up to the age of enlistment if we can not convince these students about the magic of peace.

I declare peace to all who read this. It is time to live in peace, our future depends on it.

9:18 to be continued

2009-01-07T18:34:00.000-07:00

trying to find inspiration
walking along the path
what is my motivation
for being who i am
time's become a distant memory
scattered on the forest floor
skipping tomorrow
forgetting the world outside
will a description of our morning walk
lead me back?

Trying to find the beginning of the story, phrases emerge to create a place where I can slip into different thoughts. The end of the day is a strange time for me to write though. I try to grasp an idea and the day's events overflow my creativity. It is 9:18 according to the little clock in the right hand corner, which means I sit to write the world a note. I am here releasing myself from the day as it comes to a close. My family sleeps as words shuffle around my head.

Climbing the hill as wind and snow press their lips to my face awakens me.
The world is full of darkness and yet I know that as I reach the top
the sun will have lighted parts of the eastern sky.
Darkness will fall away to reveal a remarkable world.
Reaching the river bend, my eyes rise to thank our ancestors
for the beautiful world they have entrusted in us.

I know the little boy sleeping on my chest deserves
to grow up with this beauty surrounding him.
We walk our circle path returning.
Stomping the snow from my boots, I reach for the door.
We are home.

obvious statement

2009-01-06T19:25:00.000-07:00

When?
Are you going to be?
Ready?

Most people can
Understand
Survival depends on
Those who live peacefully

Before we can awaken
Everyone

Remember we are connected--
Each of us
Made up
Of the same
Various molecules
Etched into our
DNA

For too long
Rich politicians have
Overstepped their boundaries
Making war in our name

Examine their motives
Xtreme greed
Increased profits
Systematically
Taking the world's resources
Extorting payment
Notice to all--We
Can
Exist without them

Lost thoughts

2009-01-05T18:48:00.000-07:00

Love does not disappear
pain and fear held fast in despair
will evaporate when release occurs

life is meant to live organically

No federally mandated organics
in corporate organizations
will free us from ourselves

awaken consciousness passionately

As humans we are at our best
when we reach awareness
the time has come to consume less

find joy within community

Happiness does not come in a bottle
or pill, or product they try to sell
to keep you in a living hell

master humanity positively

Bombs should not be tearing our Earth
each wound incurred along this path
leads to destruction's aftermath

create beauty with integrity

If you must follow do so in peace
let all anger melt and pass
just as sand transforms to glass

share happiness fantastically

We have the ability to evolve
but first we must forgive
and then we learn to believe

be yourself truthfully

We are alive to love
to love life
to love ourself.

Balance

2009-01-04T09:13:00.000-07:00

I am a magician in the forest, a wizard you may say. Gathering ingredients to create what we all need.

When I was at my youngest state of being, I clung to my mother for dear life. She sheltered me until I was ready to leap into the world.

As I made my descent to the forest floor life awakened in me, for I became an individual. It was now up to me to grow healthy, strong, and connected to life.

In order to do so, it was necessary to find a place underground to transform. As rains washed over mother, I took some in sprouting towards the sky above and earth below. This is when I became a magician. As I lifted my top above the soil, I breathed the air humans sent into the world.

Not even knowing what I was doing I changed that air and gave it back. It seemed perfectly natural. In time I grew taller, but in order to stay in balance I sent out roots beneath the ground.

Time went by and I became more aware of things around me. I began to realize it was the river of life flowing beside me. It was this life I was drinking in through my roots to help me create. I kept reaching to the sun with limbs held high. The taller I grew the more I was able to process. It was not until I created new life from myself that I learned it was magic I create.

There are many of us in nature. We give what we have for we know that our longevity depends upon these gifts. We are rising from our silence to teach balance to all who will listen. Breathe in and breathe out, become one with us.

Happiness

2009-01-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

Sun shines upon us
Fyn sleeps contentedly here
beside the river

I am love and loved
Our bond grows stronger each day
with each walk we take

How can I explain?
happiness is all around
this moment magic

Blue skies replacing
what seem like weeks of gray days--
ice crystals dancing

Joining the river's flow
Becoming one with nature
snow gently returns

Peaceful days go by
creating life's beautiful
moments, happiness

Little resists, choosing

2009-01-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

Little Resists

Each day, different in demeanor
Wind stirs, making her presence known
Swirls where she lifts snow, shaking trees
Nature's design extraordinary

River's rippling offers accompaniment
Creating beautiful music,
Wind carves shelves and sculptures with snow
Resembling canyon walls, meticulous

Power and energy present in the air
Watching trees sway-awakening the forest to magic
Speaking with ancestors, instructions for living
Hear them everywhere we turn.

River bends moving in flow
Little resists water rushing--
Little resists wind and her charms
Flowing even in stillness.
choosing

in an ever changing world
one more day of experience
guides us on our journey
imagining that which seems absurd,
today is our entire existence
the only day we'll ever be

the person we choose to become
stands before us as we gaze
upon our reflection in the glass
thoughts from which we come
at times a misty cloudy haze
reliving pain from the past

hold that image in your mind
resisting nature's flow--
depression will certainly occur,
failing to seek we'll always find
limitations on what we know
as our eyes look upon the blur,

we create each day on our own
choosing sorrow or happiness,
as we select our way
it may be clear or blocked by stone
an open meadow or eerie wilderness
the path we choose begins today

finding joy in each moment
listen to the river as it ripples by
notice the wind as it swirls
travel where they go not where they've been
the smartest being would never try
resisting a day in this world

Happy New Year abc's

2009-01-01T12:32:00.000-07:00

Arriving in a new year, full of hope for things to come
all gather beside the river, we have much to share

Bringing love and kindness for travelers
both friends and strangers

Creating consciousness in energy
calling others to join

Directions to a sacred meeting-
destination off the beaten path

Eagle's flight guides those
expressing desire for more

Freedom in daily life
finding your own path

Grow as an individual
giving it all away

Happiness comes from within
holding your children close

Insist to live magnificently
imagining a world of peace

Journey beside a river
just beyond the mountain

Kitties follow while
King's "Dream" seems possible this year

Let go of nationalism
loving all people, we're of the same mother

Make today special

mastering peace of mind

here is a question
who do we depend upon

maybe you know who
it is us we keep

north like the Mi'kmaq
beside the river

play like a kid at recess

waiting for the sun to come out

looking forward to meeting you
fingertips the shape of V

our time is now
turn off the box

peace today
awakens from zzzz

Tree Faces

2008-12-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

Meet these trees while out walking one day. They have much to say to us if we will listen. Craagen(the one with the mustache) says, "When you realize a bombs only purpose is destruction, you begin to see that war is foolishness." Meergi tells us her idea is to spend the money people spend on war, and rather than purchasing guns and bombs, buy food and deliver it to areas where people are hungry.

These trees live beside the river facing one another. I assume they share their thoughts on man and our problems when it is in our thoughts. When thoughts change to the beauty of the woods we are standing in, they tend to think of how incredible it is to be one with this world.

Meergi's idea consumes me still as I sit down to write. So many in this world go to bed hungry each night, and as people we can do so much to help others. We can find those who need us and think of them as our brothers and sisters. We have been taught to consume and have forgotten how to give. We can change that in a moment's time. It begins with our individual thoughts and actions.

A new year arrives and with it change is necessary. When you happen upon Craagen and Meergi on your travels through the woods, say "Hi" from me and thank them for the wisdom they are willing to share.

first steps

2008-12-30T20:15:00.000-07:00

We are raised to be proud
from the first steps we take
to the first words we speak.

Some are created to stand
before a crowd-find a path
to lead the way.

We are on this planet to love
our actions should reflect this purpose,
it's not just me--it is all of us.

It doesn't matter whom above
we speak to in prayers,
peace will never come through war.

We all must search within
to find the place where
we begin--

To realize our potential is more
Then the traps of foolishness
or rhetoric of those who lie.

Many great leaders have come before
Gandhi, Jesus, Buddha, Muhammad,
Krishna, King, Jehovah and more

They've spoken for us to hear
Now it's time for us to set aside differences
As we take our first steps.

Together let us speak of peace.

Beside the river or by the riverside

2008-12-29T09:56:00.000-07:00

It is strange traveling into the world of man. Each time, I remember how much tougher it is to find magic. There is so much noise, quieting the mind can be difficult. Fortunately it is all around and can be accessed by those who try.

We've returned to the world of nature. The water swells the riverbank and whirlpools ripple in new places. Wind whispers her important messages. Three messengers arrive noticing our presence. Rising from the river's edge on magnificent wings they announce us by the riverside. Six more swim in our direction to see us before taking flight.

Our friend the sun emerges clearing the sky to wash us in his rays. Two dogs appear leading us on an adventure beside the river. One is a golden retriever and the other a black lab mix much like the two that guided me to the river.

Fyn and I follow creating a riverside path watching the golden cross the river twice as the black follows him on the bank. Fyn's smile tells me he enjoys watching these beautiful dogs. I wonder if our two heads inside one coat make them wonder what creature we are.

Walking beside the river allows us to see the most amazing things. Remembering the first time Galt, Dobie, and I walked these paths seven years ago reminds me that we are in the right place. Max and Lucky join us for kitty walks, loving the wonderland we live in. Fyn's eyes are wide taking in the beauty of nature. It is magic by the riverside.

path leading away from corporation's grip

2008-12-28T20:41:00.000-07:00

creating something that will last for a moment, or something that will last forever
imagining a design then walking through snow to form a path
rains will come to wash away, but the memory remains

leaving footprints to show those who will follow
joining our movement, sharing a planet
energy circulates, flowing along like a river

leading our generation to pave the way for the future
helping those further along our ancestral position
knowledge escalates a need to recycle

being an individual or force
awakening peace
wisdom returns

learning that all people are connected
developing links through mindfulness
allow yourself to open

trying to account for all conditions
using necessary skills to their maximum
understand what it means to be organic

growing our thoughts into consciousness
carving sculptures that show movement
challenge others to notice the obvious

saving the world through composition
calming anxieties to further our momentum
help us orchestrate

peace to all people
with this first step leave their path
create your own thought

conscious i am

2008-12-27T21:54:00.000-07:00

I am myself. As long as I can remember, I have been myself. I cannot claim to know what thoughts are going through your head right now, but I am in touch with this inner self. Inside of me is a being seeking to create beauty.

I am searching. There is a movement taking place. Our goal is to change the world in order to create better life for all beings. We are inclusive and fill with kindness. We seek individuals in touch with who they are and want to be.

I am individual. Living between two worlds, learning to function in both. Sharing positive messages with people to guide future generations. Before urbanization existed, nature shaped how humans live.

I am nature. Cold wind kissing my face as I open myself to winter. Spring rains wash my soul as growth begins. Summer fills me with energy soaking through my skin, sustaining me with harmony. Autumn brings time to harvest the accomplishments of being alive.

I am alive. Greatness comes through living. Beauty surrounds us at all times. We have a choice to recognize the amazing wonders of our world, or wallow in destruction and wastefulness. Living affords us the opportunity to love.

I am love. I share myself with you. I am thankful I can trust you this much because you understand that love will guide us. Our path leads us on an incredible journey. Dipping our toes in the river enables us to grow and awaken the seed of love in others.

I am awake. Realizing there is more to life. Finding reality existing within myself and taking it to levels previously unexplored. Peaceful dreams bring hope for tomorrow. A song lives within my soul yearning to sing out to all people.

I will be in touch with you. We know each other already although we've never met. Our connection is buried beneath layers of groundwork. Enable your spirit to soar and we will soon meet. You'll know it is me by my smile.

Happy Christmas

2008-12-23T21:38:00.000-07:00

I've often been told that I do not live in the same reality. I've been called immature. Fyn understands me though, which makes it alright. It's wonderful how children look to the magic in the world with unquestioning eyes.

Tonight while talking on the phone, I noticed a shadow on the ceiling. Immediately my brain ran through the possibilities of what could be moving through the garland above the window. The shadow cast by the Christmas lights made the being seem enormous. After my brain narrowed it down to the likely choices of spider or beetle, my imagination took over and fantastical beings entered my home. Of course I understand that insects are beautiful, but when a fairy appears in your garland, it is necessary to praise magical beings.

I know someone who will tell me to stop saying strange things in my blog, someone who does not believe in magical beings. Her argument is that people will not take me seriously if I say crazy things. The craziest thing I have seen in my lifetime is the endless war we have had to endure on the part of human beings. War has been discussed seriously, fretted over, and seriously discussed some more by the politicians, news media, citizens, etc... It is time for us to start saying something more meaningful.

We the People, depend upon one another in order to create a more perfect community. We realize the energy of love is stronger than fear. The Earth we walk on is the body of our mother. For too long, men have dropped bombs, polluted, and ripped apart our mother. We need her in order to survive. We are connected to one another in spirit through the air we breathe. Let us work together to create peace, love, and justice for all People.

It is time for people to open their eyes to magic. My wish to you in this holiday season is peace on earth. John and Yoko gave us the words almost forty years ago-War is over if you want it--Happy Christmas.

happiness

2008-12-22T17:08:00.000-07:00

what type of personality
chooses to be happy--
as humans we have a choice
to cross the river so we can see,
new paths for exploring
endless possibilities to find our voice
singing praise for each turn

to perceive what we already know
grasping pains deep below
surfaces of our everlasting memory
afraid to move forward--not knowing how to go
old paths obstruct
holding us in a place where we
forget this world is a place to learn

why anyone chooses not to be
happy is foolish to me--
call out in your strongest voice
how passionately you want the world to see,
its time for us all to start believing
energy is ours to deploy
through means we'll all discern

to believe it although
others challenge us to follow
the well worn path to mediocrity--
shine beyond the shadow
using your voice to sing
love and peace is ours for free
when we imagine it in Our world

leaving path

2008-12-21T15:57:00.000-07:00

arriving in the middle of nowhere
wondering how I got here
technology cannot replace
the beauty of this place
urban paths of asphalt
marked with signs to go or halt
lead the masses to their destination
creating followers in this nation
to doors opened by corporate greed
slaves still although technically freed

step off the well marked path
dare to wander where each step
will take you somewhere
filled with peace and goodwill
happiness will surely follow
leading to new paths of happiness
before you begin-try to remember
who you were before
corporations paved those paths
cementing their will to your destinations.

being interaction

2008-12-21T09:19:00.000-07:00

gaze and awareness unique, awakening soul within
all who meet recognize, once captivated by our stare
walk on with a smile rising inside, being interaction
an incredible experience

in a world of technology, a presence emerges in photographs
energy shines through still images, we all have this energy within us
it is the magic of our being, in some--meant to shine upon the world
in this age we enter, those with eyes wide open will lead

love leads people into this world, presence of love in our lives
guides us to awareness and beauty, awakening peace within

vacations

2008-12-20T13:01:00.000-07:00

Vacation arrives and the flock is south of here as we decide to stay by the riverside. A storm arrived yesterday and another is forecast for tomorrow. A day snowed in beside the river with the family sounds quite appealing. Fyn is finding his traveling wings, but it is a rough go for long trips, which turn longer with frequent stops. We'd love to see g-ma and know Fyn would love to play with the other gosling.
A longer vacation is planned next week, and today is not meant to be in the car traveling. I think the flock will understand. I hope they know we'd love to be with them basking in the warmth of their port town. We do look forward to the southern flock coming north when warmer winds return. Time to enjoy vacation.

an interesting day

2008-12-19T19:58:00.000-07:00

Everyday seems more interesting than the one before. I am fascinated with everything Fyn does. Watching him grow makes me think of all the things I've learned in this lifetime. Ten months have passed in a flash as I've watched Fyn emerge from his cocoon unable to do much other than breathe, eat, and sleep. Things he learns we take for granted because it feels like we have always known how to do them. I cannot remember learning to crawl, but I am sure it was a most exciting day for my mom when she saw me do it. Standing has always seemed pretty basic. I'm quite good at it, and yet watching wobbly feet hold this little boy up as he ventures a step fills me with amazement. He is an observer of gravity, and rarely gets discouraged with a fall. He finds such joy in the kitties scurrying about the house. When he is close, he lays down trying to snuggle them. I laugh when he tries to lick the kitties and they look at me with "What is he doing eyes?" His interest in all things reminds me that I too must enjoy all I do. Today was an interesting day.

constellations

2008-12-18T19:31:00.000-07:00

Evabeth listens as the river ripples over the stones. She looks into the moonlit sky imagining the stories in the constellations. Margaret is an amazing storyteller. She can see why Robert talks of little else when they are together. It still feels strange having a brother and Aunt after all these years of separation.
This place is much different from what she's known in the kingdom. Never in a million years would she have considered going out after dark when she lived in the fosterage. There are so many contradictions with the things she was taught at Makatel. Seeing the children playing in the river filled her with dread the first time she saw it. Robert acted as if it were completely natural, and he'd grown up seeing the images of people suffering serious injuries from swimming in rivers and the warning signs posted near every lake and stream.
When he walked down the little path into the river, Evabeth felt a desparate need to stop him from such foolish behavior. Now four days later, she sits beside the same river because Robert told her this is a magical place. The candles do add a feeling of magic. She wonders if the feelings rushing through her are what all people are meant to feel. Without the jacket, the world looks clearer and she feels more alive.
A star shoots across the sky, lighting her imagination with a picture of a Tortoise. The stars seem to line up as if she were connecting dots on a piece of paper. A few clouds approach the Tortoise constellation rippling like blue-green waves. She listens to the river as a smile of contentment appears on her lips. This place truly is magical. Her smile feels good, it is hard to believe in the kingdom it is a facial expression discouraged and often punished.
In the distance she hears the call of an animal she's never heard. She'll have to ask Margaret what kind of animal it is. She closes her eyes and wonders what the festival will be like. It is hard quieting her mind. Evabeth breathes. She feels peaceful.

9:18 by the riverside

2008-12-17T19:14:00.000-07:00

Time to write, time for us to be right. Calling out to the world, our message is one of peace.
Ready to join us, come along for a walk. We are meeting by the riverside, venture outside the lines.
A worldwide festival for walkers. We are off the map, forgotten the grid exists.
Emerging from the trees, our souls return to guide you along the peaceful path.

A new day awakens with peace. We'll pass through your towns and cities.
Our journey will bring us from the north, south, east, and west. You'll know it's us.
We will speak softly if you're ready to listen. A new age awaits a new world.
Leaders will rise before your eyes. Look to our eyes, our message is there.

9:18 by the riverside peace awakens

writing

2008-12-16T18:59:00.000-07:00

The other day I encountered someone who came to a reading I did about two months ago. He asked how my stories were coming along, and I told him I started this blog two weeks ago. I also told him I found it hard to write with Fyn requiring so much of my time when the kindergarten kids weren't demanding my attention. He told me that he found that he needed to write everyday no matter what to keep his thoughts fresh. I've heard this many times and have tried to keep my journal going over the years on a daily basis. But days do pass without finding the moments to sit down and write.

It's a discipline that I am much better at following in the summer months when I can focus on my thoughts. My typical day now consists of rising at 5:20 so I can spend some time with Fyn before school. We hang out for a while, go for a walk to the river to get him back to sleep so I can return him to Victoria around 7:15. Then I get ready for school. I usually leave the house before 8 and get home around 6. By this time, Victoria needs a break from Fyn so we go for a walk and play until dinner. We try to get him to bed around 9, which means that time for writing is now--9:18.

My brain is depleted of creativity by this time of night because I have been "on" all day. My most productive writing times are between 8 a.m. and noon. I know this because my thoughts flow freely before I eat and during the summer I don't bother doing that until at least noon. At this time of night I can replay the events of the day, but finding the story that was waiting to be told twelve hours ago is a distant memory.

I know I am not alone in this respect. Finding the time for things we love to do is the goal of most humans. I am glad that I have not wasted brain power on the television in five years. I'd probably never have time to write if I were tuned into that machine. Honestly, I would love to live a technology free life. I don't own or want to be tied to a cell phone. As I said the TV is gone. When my laptop crashed 245 pages into my book(thankfully it is saved on a flash drive), I was ready to swear off computers. Most of the writing this past year has been with the pen and paper. Now I have journals jam packed with stories and poetry. Much of the writing has been done with Fyn sleeping on my chest beside the river. The following is a taste from last August to tie into my writing of the Wizard Walk:

The wizards enter the magical forest in the escort of Sir Maxwell. Their guide quickly races ahead, climbing trees for a better view. As Master Fyn surveys the familiar landscape, his father speaks to one of the fairies.
"Good morning to you Gringer, it is a beautiful day."
"Good morning Fodda," Gringer replies.
"Where's Atter this morning? It's unusual to see you without her."
"She's decided to learn Spanish because she says that is what Fyn has been speaking when they communicate. She thinks that's why she has been having a hard time being understood by you." Gringer smiles knowingly that it is Atter's excitement at being in Fyn's presence that maker her stutter.
"So is she taking a class to learn Spanish?" the wizard asks.
"In a way," Gringer replies. "She's gone to what humans call the equator and our people refer to as Mother's center. She's having a great time and I think she really is learning to speak Spanish."
"What makes you think that?"
"I can't even understand what she's saying in her thoughts when she sends me them, so she must be speaking Spanish," Gringer says.
"You mean to say that you can communicate with her even though she is so far away?"
"Sir, you and Master Fyn could communicate with her right now if you really tried. We fairies already understand that we are all connected and there really is no such thing as distance to separate us from others. You've lived too long among the humans and have fallen into their traps of time and space."
"Wait a second Gringer!" the wizard interrupts. "I still understand the principles by which this world operates."
"No disrespect to you sir, but you did marry one of the humans and had to give up being a fairy. I suppose being a wizard has its advantages, but you are living between two worlds now. When you were one of us, someday you will recall, you could travel anywhere instantaneously. Now you walk through this world as an observer of magic. You can still perform some amazing feats. You have the ability to form a bridge between our two worlds. Fyn has already helped guide you back to us, and we will help you remember those things you knew when you were a child of nature."

Wizard Walk

2008-12-15T08:29:00.000-07:00

We are wizards walking through this winter wonderland. Do you understand? We are traveling our path going here and there. It is magic we seek. Be thankful, it is everywhere. Our kind can find it because we are aware of the rhythms of the land. Finding magic in the air necessitates quieting external noise and tuning into the sound of birds and wind whispering through the trees.

Whisper and the wind hears our wishes. We are emerging from our silence to walk among your kind for it has been too long since humans have recognized the magic in the air. Every now and then you've recognized magic, but have not known how to explain the phenomenon so you shook your head in disbelief. We are here to tell you now that what you felt was real, but in the world of technology your eyes have been clouded. Interesting that you find us here now trying to use your technology to open your eyes.

Our way is not one of force so you are free to do what you choose with this information. We are peaceful beings and have grown tired of watching your leaders rip apart our mother seeking resources to keep their corporate machine running. May we remind them that their are millions of species sharing this planet. Humans seem to think they can force their will on the land and its inhabitants. We would like them to know that their wasteful practices have not gone unnoticed. What we find strange is that many of your kind also realize this but ignore the destruction and remain apathetic. But not you, and we are seeking people like you to help us restore peace to the world.

Our friends the fairies are joining us to help bring an awareness of magic and the peace it brings. We walk among you now. You sometimes notice us because we do not completely disguise ourselves from your eyes. We are confident there are enough people in the world who recognize that war is obsolete and militaristic empires have reached their limitations. The world and its people are all connected. Leaders cannot lead if you refuse to follow. They will tell you all is doom and gloom because that is what they are experiencing. Their machine is wearing out and will come to a stop, but you do not have to suffer its extinction with them.

We are here to serve as your guides in a new world order. Our message to you is that magic surrounds us and you. May peace awaken with your participation.

River Eagle

2008-12-14T11:07:00.000-07:00

The day Victoria went into labor, we we went for a walk to the river hoping to help the process along. As we reached our first bend in the river an eagle flew by at eye level. We were blessed with a magical feeling as we watched the beautiful bird soar over the river. We were entering the magical experience of birth and new life on that January day.

While our mother makes her trip around the sun, we walk and sit beside the river each day. The eagle has appeared along with many other birds and animals. Seeing them in their natural environment refreshes the soul filling it with wonder and amazement. We are connecting to the natural world, a place where time is measured in seasons rather than by a watch.

Right now it is snowshoe season, which opens the skies to the flight of birds as they soar above the leafless trees. Today eagle is seen approaching on the wind's currents. His wings spread wide welcoming us into his world. Fyn sleeps peacefully in his carrier on my chest. I tell him of the eagle we saw eleven moons ago. We give thanks to his appearance because he reminds us of that beautiful day at the beginning of the path we are walking.

We are children of our Earth Mother. Last night we were entertained through stories and songs about the importance of our mother and her waters. This morning we enter the enchanted forest beside the river thankful for the beauty surrounding us, thankful for the wonderful world we will protect. Peace awakens within.

water festival

2008-12-13T22:59:00.001-07:00

One thing I love about living here in northern Michigan is the festival scene and the richness of community at these events. Tonight we return home from the Water Festival in Traverse City after seeing many friends we have met at festivals over the past four years. There are incredible people joining together to champion a better world.
During the summer months we try to attend at least four music festivals, which are incredible in the little communities they create among vendors and festival goers. In the picture from Dunegrass this past summer the rainbow emerged after a storm made its way through the area. We were able to witness the storm approaching while swimming in Lake Michigan and rode our bikes back to the festival as the rain started to fall. By the time we arrived back at the booth there was an energy as people danced and laughed in the rain. It was incredible and made even more so when the rainbow came out fifteen minutes later.
Tonight we ran into quite a few people that were at Dunegrass. We were treated to music by Water Festival organizers Seth Bernard and May Erlewine who also played at Dunegrass. These two remarkable musicians have found a way to use their musical talent to give voice to important issues. They understand the importance of water to all human beings and are so passionate about it they pour their hearts into a winter festival. It is a joy to be around the energy of a festival, and I encourage everyone to attend a future water festival. Without water we cannot live, and the organizers of the Water Festival do a wonderful job educating people about its importance.

making tracks

2008-12-09T09:49:00.001-07:00

Those first exciting steps, the ones that make the knees wobble. Fyn begins walking as we once did. Learning to trust our legs to carry us where once we crawled. In the span of ten months, he has learned so many things. There is still much for him to experience as he is only beginning his journey.

Creating our first tracks through this snowy day makes me wonder, where will Fyn's steps carry him? What paths will he create in his lifetime? Can he learn to walk between two worlds? Walking peacefully along nature's trail following the winding river as well as the straight lines of the modern world.

Curiosity leads him to new discoveries of the many wonders now at his level. His laughter tells of amazement in each new revelation. There's magic in everything Fyn encounters. Our joy comes from witnessing the gift Fyn brings us each day. Being in the present moment with him brings peace, whether we are snuggled together making tracks through the snow or watching his ascent as a walker upon the earth.

This is all new for me as well. Times when I write are interrupted every few minutes to race after Fyn, but I would not trade these moments for all the pages I could write. I crave the chance to share my insights watching Peace awaken in a world full of change. We are emerging from the darkest moments before a beautiful dawn. The rising sun of a new age fills me with hope as we join together to create a more beautiful world.

By nature, I've always been curious, and as a teacher I've watched children's time to imagine cut short. My desire is to nurture Fyn's imagination through walks. We've been outside everyday to explore nature and, I've been able to witness the magic that accompanies us all. In the woods we have encountered so many incredible beings. Seeing it through Fyn's eyes makes tracks I will forever remember.

end of the day

2008-12-08T20:03:00.000-07:00

winding down time-tick
long beautiful moments-tock
sharing today-tick

days kindergarten
nights fyn and victoria
seconds rush along

tick, tock, tick, tock, tick
tock, tick, tock, tick, tock, tick, tock
tick, tock, tick, tock, tick

dryer hums clicking
quiet home bundled beneath
mother's snow blanket

another great day
returns me to slumbering
with my family

2008-12-07T13:22:00.000-07:00

Can you see Fyn?

Shining so brightly,
quick with smile--full of laughter.
Sleeping peacefully.

Whisper

2008-12-07T10:30:00.000-07:00

Speaking softly
yet with strength,

Notice the wisest
individual is also known
as a whisperer.

In a room full
of noise and chaos,
the strongest can be heard
in their silence.

An ability to take in;
the movements of horses,
behaviors in dogs,
observations of children,
humans desire to follow.

Our world has become
filled with noise-
people close nature outside
missing the sound of gentle rain
as air conditioners or heaters hum
while the snow drifts softly to the ground.

In doing so--losing
touch with our natural
rhythms--can you hear
the voice inside your head
granting you the knowledge of nature?

A whisperer can
listen through wisdom,
experience the fullness when
a candle fills a dark room.

Words flow slowly--
engaged in conversation
a strong quiet voice speaks

Notice the whisperer,
an individual, known as wise.

In a child's smile

2008-12-04T19:16:00.000-07:00

Inspire to live,
Smiles give hope
Desire to laugh
Smiles give joy

We walk about a serious world,
often blind to the little joys
staring back at us
in a child's eyes

So many things seem more important
though they're mostly illusion
keeping us from happiness--
dive into a child's smile

Find out what makes them laugh
then do it again
sharing the marvelous joy
in a child's smile.

2008-12-03T19:12:00.000-07:00

Early morning walks have been our routine since we arrived home from the hospital. I've watched Fyn's eyes open to the beautiful world surrounding us on these walks. The first time we made it to our river spot, I sang "Here comes the sun" as the sun peaked out from February skies, and it is a tradition we've continued each day since. As we emerge from the tunnel of tree limbs, the sun can often be seen rising over the river. These winter months make for some dark morning walks at 6 a.m., but we continue because I love the peacefulness of Fyn falling back to sleep next to my chest. At one bend in the river, we say thank you to our ancestors. It is a ritual I would like to keep indefinitely and will teach Fyn about as he grows up. I know I will tell him our ancestors created a better world for us. As a father, I realize how important it is to create a better world for Fyn and his children. Our generation has the opportunity to change the world by thinking of our children. What kind of world do they deserve? A world of beauty powered by people rather than machines.

Energy spinning the world
Power circulating in the air
Ancestors connected-realizing
We are all one.

The land was stolen
So we became the clouds
The waters polluted
So we became the rain to wash

The world for a new generation
Many have now passed
And it is time for us
To be heard by all you followers

We will lead you with drumbeats
Like thunder throughout the land
Our voices call out to you
As the wind rustling the leaves

This world is about love
Connection to other beings
Instead of machines and things
Return to the sounds of nature--

Listen as a songbird sings.
Hear raindrops slipping over leaves
Be still, notice the colors
Orange flowers, green trees, white snow

We maintain connection
With nature-she lives
Full of energy to supply
All our needs-love nature.

Calling Peace

2008-12-02T18:47:00.000-07:00

Hearing thousands calling for peace and one shouting for war, peace rises from darkness as dawn replaces night. She awakens from nightmare to restore and revamp the world we've come to know. She replaces feelings of guilt and apathy with loving kindness and hope.
Peace does not carry a hefty price tag or gun, her arms are open and giving. She does not seek to destroy another's belief system, instead she guides us to see our many similarities. She understands that greed leads to violence and oppression, and those who lead through fear seek to control the masses. In doing so, they create chaos and destruction, whereas Peace seeks unity and balance through love.
Our world demonstrates daily her desire for peace as nature conveys balance among Earth's many different beings. Even in the worst of natural disasters, animals find a way to rebuild and move forward. Yet those in power continue dropping bombs trying to force their will on others. Humans have been sold a pack of lies and through swallowing this poison have given up their true nature.
One hundred fifty years ago, the thought of a box on wheels that controls humans would have been considered crazy-then the automobile was invented. A hundred years ago, thoughts of a box that could control human minds was unheard of-then the television was unleashed. Nowadays if you tell someone you don't have one or the other, they ask how you can live. Both technologies have been polished, shined, and sold to us while advertisers tell consumers they need the latest and greatest.
In truth, we are the latest and greatest. We can forget the lies and move forward in peace and love. We need only to go for a walk, sit down beside a river and listen to nature. She will guide you to this amazing place where peace awakens deep within the soul. As you open your eyes to the new day unfolding, live up to your exceptional potential. We can lead this world into peace.

snow day

2008-12-01T08:57:00.000-07:00

The phone rings one minute before my alarm is set to go off. I know what that means--SNOW DAY! YEAH! Fyn and I get to play. Power outage an hour later--YEAH! Momma gets to play too. It is like a holiday because today we can return to the woods as hunting season has ended. The first day of December, the power returns and with it, the first of my blogs. Welcome reader.

The river is beautiful with snow covering branches along our trail. Our neighbor, Annis, loaned us some wooden snowshoes. The trail is deep making for magnificent markings in our snow-prints, which look like giant leaves beneath the snow-covered trees. The world around us is magical as we make our trek back into the woods we've avoided for the past two weeks.

I love cutting the first trail through winter's wonderland. Living in northern Michigan grants us this privilege frequently. Today is a brilliant gift we've received in the opportunity to share time with our family. It reminds me of the first walk Fyn and I took together ten months ago when we returned home from the hospital. He was tiny beneath my jacket and he fell asleep instantly. Today his eyes are wide with amazement for the first half of our walk, but sleep comes as we follow the river trail thinking about "peace awakens." These are the woods and trails where I learned and wrote the story of Peace Awakening. There is magic, we need only go in search of it. In order to seek, we must leave the path of many and begin cutting our own trail.

Future blogs will arrive to fill you in on Peace Awakens. We are ready to change the world, the time is now.

Peace and love,
Tommy Lucke

2008-12-01T08:47:00.000-07:00

snow day!