Dude, chill. What would Jesus do?

My world is a strange one.  I'm a peacemaker.  I'm a rebel.  I'm an activist.   

I'm a Warrioress bringing light to a shifting world.  Sounds exciting, huh?  Woooo!  

I can be very passionate about injustices and have always favored the underdog. 

My heart aches when I see others being hurt.  In any way.  

My passion will always be a part of me, I'm a Leo fer cryin' out loud! :)

That being said, I also embrace the idea of "letting that shit go".  So many of the things we busy our minds with...trivial shit.  
Stuff that is soooo not worth our time and energy.  
Dude, relax.

Yet, I would ask this question.  Does smiling, nodding, focusing only on love n' light, and praying *really* create more peace on earth?  It helps, yes, but there is no enlightenment in a situation without actually understanding it.  

Denying its existence does not help.

Think about the word enlightenment.  en·light·en·ment - noun: the state of having knowledge or understanding : the act of giving someone knowledge or understanding

Yes!  That's what I want!  Bring on the enlightenment!  Let's talk, bring awareness, and shed light on issues and ideas.  One small crack allows the Light to enter, right?  What better way to bring knowledge and understanding.  

I have found myself in several conversations 
over the past few months about Jesus. 

 I was raised a Christian, but left organized religion years ago.

I'm too much of a hippie who believes that we're all connected, One and equal.  

Sometimes it seems religion gets in the way of that belief and causes division. 

My personal observation.  

But, the way I understand how Jesus walked the earth, he was not a man who complied with the masses.  His ideas pissed people off.  He spoke up for the less fortunate.  He made people very uncomfortable with new ideas of loving everyone as your equal.  He didn't keep his thoughts and opinions to himself.  He was vocal.  He was strong in his belief and walked with incredible authenticity.  He didn't hate others because they didn't follow him, he just did his thing.  He did *not* try to convert anyone or judge them for not believing as he did.  

He just lived his personal truth.  Walked his talk.  

Some people really dug that!  The masses HATED it.  How empowered he was!  Who does this guy think he is?  People are questioning what they've been taught and told!  He must be silenced.  What is it in our world that we always wanna silence the peacemakers?  C'mon!

Jesus loved and accepted the ones that others said were unlovable and unacceptable.  

He was not always peaceful and was certainly not apathetic.  

When he saw injustice, he spoke up and stood up for what felt right in his heart.  

I also think that if he saw what organized religion has done in his name, 

he'd be more than a little disgusted.  

Wow, the hate and intolerance we see sometimes in the name of being a good Christian.  

Probably not what the peace-loving, brown-skinned, Jewish hippie had in mind when he talked of loving your brother. Yikes.

Really, what I want is to walk every day a little more like the enlightened, wise ones.  

Jesus.  Buddha.  Krishna.  So many others.  

Empowered.  Strong.  Sure of self.  Unconcerned with popular opinion.

I know so very little in the greater scope.  But, we're always seeking a greater self awareness, huh?  

Will I stop being strong, vocal, Mama Lisa?  Will I stop having passionate posts and rants?  

Not very likely.  

I have found for me that is comes down to one thing:  

How can *I* create more peace on Earth?  

Does being silent and not sharing an opinion create more peace on Earth?  

Does apathy create more peace on Earth?  

Does turning a cheek on atrocity and not having a dialogue about it create more peace on Earth?  Does laughing at a racially charged joke because everyone else is laughing create more peace on Earth?  

Does hating another religion or belief system because you were not born into it and do not understand it create more peace on Earth?  

I've decided to live by this simple test.  

When I have a thought, idea or opinion...what will create more peace on earth?  

Swallowing it?  Letting it stew inside that I *should* have said something?  Obsessing over what I could have said?  What will create more peace on Earth (within myself)?  

Will sharing that thought, idea, or opinion create more peace on Earth (within myself)?  

Have I spoken with authenticity?  Does my opinion harm anyone?  Does it make others uncomfortable and am I okay with that? 

Sometimes...I can let shit go, because it genuinely will bring more peace on Earth (within myself) if I choose to be silent.  Sometimes...I can't let shit go, because my heart speaks so loudly I have to express its contents.  To create awareness.  To create dialogue.  To create change.  

Within myself, and that will be reflected by creating a more aware world.

A more enlightened world, filled with knowledge and understanding.

I'm going to keep on keepin' on.  Doing my thing.  If folks like it, they like it.  If they don't, that's okay too.  I'm not here to appease anyone, I'm here to expand my own awareness and create more peace on Earth.  I'm doing better today than I did yesterday.  I'll keep on doing that.

        

Yes. Yes, I am one of them. I'm a refuser.

Consider it a coming out, of sorts.
It’s true.  I’m one of *them*.  I’m a refuser.

For those of you who don’t know this already, I feel it’s time to just put it right out there and take ownership.  My husband and I are the "crazies" that you’re currently being warned about.

We are refusers, and chose an alternative vaccination schedule for our daughter.
~~insert dramatic music here~~   

It may not seem like a big thing...but it's a dangerous time to be a refuser.  

Even the high profile supporters are a little leery right now.

The reason I have decided to put this into a blog post is because as the fear-mongering revs up, and the propaganda is in full force right now, my husband and I have both recently seen some uncharacteristic behavior in people. In the past, we never really worried about mentioning our choice out loud.  But now, there is a firestorm occurring and the fear being generated in the media is creating a witch hunt for those of us who choose an alternative schedule with our children's vaccinations.  But there is more.  Our rights as parents are being threatened.  Your rights.

Let's start a few years back.

Rob and I are *older folks* and we collectively have children spanning over 3 decades.  Uff...wow!  We surmised we were done having children when we met and then married in 2005, but we are now the proud parents of an additional wee girl named Kenz, our 8 year old fairy imp. 

So, here is the thing.  We love our daughter.  I mean, wildly.  She came to us late in life, and she was not only a ‘surprise’ baby, she was a miracle baby.  As in, not able to be conceived!  But lo and behold, here is our girl.  Raising her as older than average parents has been a challenging and unique experience.  Rob has a son from his first marriage, now in his twenties.  I have two children from my first marriage, both in their twenties.  We both did things very differently when we were younger parents.  And although the first batch of kids grew up to be amazing individuals, we both felt we had more to offer Kenz as we were older, a bit wiser and more open to different viewpoints.  That being said, oh how we have painstakingly worried, fretted, pondered over how to raise this one!  Like most parents do :)  

What I'm going to share is not intended to convince anyone of anything. This is just one person’s story.  I offer it in an attempt to see the reasoning behind how one set of devoted, loving parents came to their personal decision.  If it inspires you to do some independent research, swell.  If not, it's your personal journey, and none of my business.  I'd also ask you to consider how each of us as parents make choices based on our desire for the very best for our children, and to remember this before you blindly categorize and label parents who have made a different choice than you, as crazy, neglectful or unloving.  Trust me when I say, you'd be surprised how many of us refusers there are out there who are making similar decisions for their children.
Perhaps they're not sharing their story with you or others because of the possible backlash, which is not always pretty.

Allow me to offer you a brief glimpse into the fear/hatred that we refusers hear on a regular basis through overheard conversations, social media, parenting boards, friends/co-workers/family. 

1.  Uninformed and ignorant.

2.  Neglectful parents.

3.  CPS should take your children away from you.

4.  All of you idiots who refuse should be sent away to an island to infect one another and die off.

5.   It will serve you right when your child dies from one of these diseases.

6.  If you loved your child you'd take care of them.

7.  People like you will be the demise of the world.

I guess maybe I’m naïve, but I can’t understand why you think you should be allowed to have a say in what we feel is best for our child? 

I would never say that our choice is the right choice, it’s simply our choice.  

Based on our own beliefs, research, and the best interest of our individual child and her needs.

I’d like to share the why of our own personal decision, and hopefully I won’t be automatically accused of being a “Jenny McCarthy cult follower or conspiracy theorist”.  Because frankly, I have no interest in Jenny McCarthy or what’s she’s doing.  That is hers.  Good news, she gets to have an opinion, after all we do have that freedom.  For now.

Here are a few things that we took into consideration when making the decision of an alternative vaccination schedule for our family.

1.  The increase in the number of vaccinations given over the years.  Holy smokes.  Why?  I mean, seriously, why?  How is it that we just allowed this to happen, blindly, without questioning it?  We have idly sat back as more and more special interest groups, big money, and big pharma have become involved.  One of the first questions I ask when I'm questioning the validity of any theory, is where is the money trail?  Let's look at that.  Who stands to financially benefit from this dramatic increase?  It sure isn't my child or my family. Big pharma makes no $$$ from a healthy, AT-ease population.  They do, however, stand to profit greatly from an unhealthy, DIS-eased population. 

If you are ever called to dig a little deeper, look up "Vaccine Courts" and the trillions of dollars that have been paid to the 1,000's of families who have vaccine injured children.  Yes, it's very real and it's definitely something to think about. 

2.  The science and research into the already declining numbers of outbreaks of certain diseases *before* the introduction of immunizations.  Could it be possible that more sanitary living conditions, cleaner water, more readily available medical care could have had an impact on the decline?  The facts and statistics are there, but seriously, will we find them on the surface?  What would happen to our dependency on the system if we started asking for the research, other than what the CDC says we're entitled to see as 'average citizens'.  If I sound distrusting, I am.  I've learned much, the deeper I've researched for the facts.  I know CDC provides information.  The information they're allowed to provide.  Again, think about it.  Who stands to profit?  What would happen if we learned a deception has been occurring?  Mass hysteria anyone? 

      3.  One size dosage fits all.  They're prepackaged, and the same dose they give to a newborn is what they they give to a 6 year old.  This one boggles my mind.  How can it be logical, legal, or safe to give the same dosage to everyone?  Have you ever asked if your child was being injected according to their weight?  Might want to ask about that one, too.

4.  Why do we blindly follow what we’re told without looking into it?  I used to live in that world, not any more.  Just because someone tells me something, that does not mean it’s truth.  

It means it is what they know.  Every dentist, teacher, doctor, hair stylist, lawyer, mechanic, engineer knows what they've been told and taught.  

They each had a set curriculum that they followed.  

Does that make it truth?  No.  Are there always other alternatives?  Yes!

For fun, ask your doctor to share with you all they know about the ingredients (active and inactive) in the vaccines.   Then ask them to show you the package insert for each of the vaccinations your child is about to receive.  I have.  I can almost guarantee they will tell you, "Don't worry about it.  I am the doctor.  It’s for the best.  Do you have a medical degree?"  They really won’t know or say much more, except to possibly give you a condescending lecture and the crackerjack eye for daring to question their authority.  

Uhh...as you might imagine, I'd highly recommend you DO question their authority.

5.  Where is the INDEPENDENT research?  I'd be more than happy to reevaluate my current stance if I could be provided with some research and clinical studies that were not funded by groups that stand to profit from the findings. Ugh.  Oh, the media is so happy to link you to studies that will tell you the dangers of not following the current schedule, but every time you see that link, I encourage you to follow the money.  Who funded it?  What is their interest?  

So, has there been research by outside sources?  Oh yes.  Unfortunately, many of the doctors who have come forth have been smeared and mocked within their communities and ostracized from their profession.  Fortunately, many are still fighting the battle.  They're out there.  Find them.  I highly recommend Dr. Tenpenny.  Take some time, learn more about them, and entertain their ideas of alternative schedules.  See if you might have missed something along the way.  Remember, if you have a slight change of heart, it doesn't mean you were wrong!  We all do the best we can with the information we have, until we have more information.  

Then if we like, we can make different decisions.

      See, I'm not against all vaccines.  I'm against the current, aggressive schedule and the inactive ingredients still in some of them.  I'm also against the newer ones being offered such as hpv and shingles, the ones whose data is still coming in.  How about we actually know what the long term affects are before we start administering?  Also, flu shots.  Have you read an insert? Consider it.

Are their alternatives?  YES!  Yes Yes Yes!

There are physicians who will not only assist you, but SUPPORT your decision to choose an alternative schedule, and also provide you with immunizations that do *not* have all the unnecessary, inactive ingredients.  But, you must ask.  You must ask again.  You may even have to demand it or change pediatricians.  But, it's your right and responsibility as a parent to question what they are injecting into your children.  If you are not respected when you want to have this discussion, or if you are treated in a condescending manner, take it as a sign. 

Here is a question I often get when people hear we are refusers. 

Do you think that vaccines cause autism?  No. 

This is how I see it.  I look at our immune system as a big ole bucket.  That bucket is filled with all kinds of stuff that it didn't used to be filled with years ago.  Chemicals, dyes, preservatives, environmental pollutants.  The ever increasing amount of products we breathe, put on our skin, and ingest is rampant with UNnatural ingredients.  Our bucket gets filled one ingredient at a time.  

Now look at our children’s immune system.  If they already have a bucket with some junk in it, due to environment or certain health conditions, and then we dump in some chemical filled formula, water, lotion, etc., it gets fuller.  Then we dump in a bit more chemical airborne exposure, a little fuller still.  Now, we're precariously close to overflowing that bucket, we are right at the edge.

Then, we get that one extra vaccine and all the inactive junk like mercury, aluminum, MSG. Whoosh.  That creates a “spillover” into their little bodies.  All the junk which is not being contained in the immune system bucket, is now floating around in their bodies freely.  What symptoms might manifest?  How might that overloaded immune system find a way to express its overwhelmed and over exceeded capacity but through a bodily event and certain symptoms?

Clearly, this is my personal insight and not science! I don't mean it to be.  But it is one mama’s attempt to explain a process in a simple analogy.  It works for me, even makes a little sense.  Kenz's immune system is challenged/compromised.  I simply won't risk overloading her.
All that being said, are you aware that on certain vaccine inserts, it very plainly states that this vaccine can cause autism?  Again...research.

So, here is what it all boils down to for me at this time.  Right now, there are those that are on a mission to instill great fear and chaos...and mostly, division.  Us against them.  Someone, the powers that be, wants you to be scared of the refusers. Why?
You *could* buy into the hype about recent "outbreaks", but do you realize that those few isolated cases were among the already vaccinated community?  If the vaccines are effective, how did they catch the virus?  If the unvaccinated did not have the virus, how could they cause the spread?  I feel confused.  It's disturbing how quick people are to jump on the bandwagon without researching any other sources than opinion pieces in mainstream media outlets.  Research what even constitutes a breakout!  Fascinating.  And don't even get me started on herd immunity. If you don't understand it, stop using it as a tool of hate filled propaganda.

So again, why the recent amped up effort to instill fear and chaos?  It's simple.  There is currently a push to make all vaccines mandatory.  To make it illegal to opt out with an exemption form.  It's a growing threat and it's very real.  Check out what's going on in Colorado.
Folks, this is sketchy stuff.

While you're busy condemning me and other loving parents, there is legislation occurring where your RIGHTS and CHOICE will be taken away.  Not just mine.  Yours.  The saddest part?  You'll welcome it.  They will have created such a wild, frenzied hate fest and witch hunt that when it is proposed, you'll be the first in line to sign it into law.  Because of *them*.  Us.  The refusers.  You'll be so busy pointing at us as the villains, and meanwhile you've just created an opportunity, welcomed the opportunity, where the government will decide the fate of your child.  There will be no choice.  Imagine being the parent of a child who stands to be vaccine-injured if forced to take part in mandatory vaccinations.  Think it can't happen?  You better believe it can. 

Regardless of what you think of me, or my choices as a parent...do you want some outside authority telling you what they will do to your child?  With or without your consent.  Yikes!  I am not asking you to support my choice, I am asking, no, pleading with you, to support your own rights as a parent.  All it takes is one opportunity to control our parenting, and what comes next?  I'd rather not find out.  Remember, in Nazi Germany, people felt it was in their best interest to go along willingly with their leader, they initially welcomed his overseeing protection.  The laws that were increasingly implemented for their 'protection' ended up stealing all their individual rights and freedoms until the day came where they realized they'd created their own prison and were unable to get out.
So, yes, it might be easy to label me as fearful, rather than a concerned citizen, but I will say -  I rather enjoy my personal freedoms, thank you very much!

On a personal note, your child is vaccinated.  Mine is not.  Please don't worry that my kid could be a threat to yours.  Truth is, my child is far more at risk being exposed to your child after receiving a live-virus vaccine as it sloughs off through bodily secretions for the next 30 days!

If you choose to not allow your child around mine, I will honor that.  Just please be sure you’re making that decision based on your own research and not the information provided by special interest groups, opinion pieces, or the fear inciting mainstream media outlets.  

Finally, if you find yourself condemning and pointing your shame-filled finger at a group of parents whom you know nothing about, and you feel it's your civic duty to shout from the mountaintops that they should be forced to vaccinate or else go live on an isolated island, remember, it will also be YOUR parental rights taken away.  

I don't want anyone to tell me how to raise my children.  I certainly don't want the government telling me they know what's best for my child.  Do you?  These divine little beings chose us to care for them, love them and protect them.  And we're all doing the best that we can.  How about we support one another, and have an important discussion.  Stop pointing fingers, and lend a helping hand or a receptive ear.  That seems a much better use of time and energy.  If you have questions or opinions, I always welcome the dialogue!  :)
For more information on topics such as this and other random musings...check out my FB page, "She UnEarthed" or my personal FB page "Lisa Howard"
www.lisadawnhoward.com

Love n' Light...whatever.

You ever have one of those days where the world just seems to suck?

Is it a good idea to blog right now?  Probably not...but here goes...

A few months back, right when this seemingly never ending winter set in, I pulled back from social media, a hectic work schedule and a rushed life in general.  I nestled contentedly into home life for a while.  No gigs, no traveling, no Facebooking, no coffee dates.  Just me, my little family and my creativity and thoughts.  

During that time of quiet, there was much contemplation about where my spiritual journey was headed and what things would look like in 2014.  I felt change.  Big change.  Not just for me, but for many.  

I felt something stirring in the still of winter.  A low rumbling.  Discontent and an almost urgency to figure out what was coming next.  These rumblings of change kept getting louder as the months progressed and although I could not pinpoint what it meant exactly, it felt quite unsettling.  Something was happening.  A bigger shift was occurring.  The world was taking a leap in its conscious evolution, its own Awakening.  Something was different.

When I poked my nose out of hibernation, and jumped back into the world of social media.  Something HAD changed.  Many of the sites I'd been quietly observing had skyrocketed in 'Likes'.  The number of people participating in conversations had grown exponentially.  And people who I never thought were 'into' the ideas I was 'into' were speaking their own truth, and imagine my elation when they agreed with some of the thoughts I'd had myself.  I felt I'd been missing out on something amazing that had occurred in my quiet time!  Then, I realized something distressing.  Why had I been a quiet observer on those pages before?  What had I been afraid of?  What stopped me from commenting and participating?  Why all of the sudden, when others I knew were talking about this stuff, did I feel it was finally okay for me to do it too?

Uh oh.  Moment of hard reality.  

If you're not speaking your truth because you're waiting for someone else to do it first, who the hell have you become, Lisa?  That's not the girl I'd prided myself on being.  I've always been a trailblazer, an oddball thinker, a 'nutter' in my ideas.  Suddenly, I saw myself in a light I didn't really care for.  I'd become a conformer (gasp).  Someone worried about the opinions of others and swallowing down far too many thoughts, ideas and opinions because I was afraid I'd not be seen as a good "Lightworker".  I'd be seen as someone who was giving into fear based thinking, spreading too much negativity and was undeserving of calling themselves spiritual teacher.  Ugh.  UGH!

An interesting side affect of all this realization...waves of overwhelming shame and guilt.  

  

"Lisa, maintain your energy."  "Keep your focus on the highest energy, stay positive."  "Don't feed the fear."  "What you think about grows, be mindful of what you're creating."  "You know better than this!"  "Stay in the Light!"

You know what I'm talking about, right?  

All the things we tell ourselves as we walk this spiritual journey and we get stuck in old patterns.  

We are learning all these fabulous tips to heal.  To shift our thinking.  To create a new reality. So when some of the shadow thoughts present themselves, we kick ourselves a little for not doing better.  For getting wrapped up in 'old thinking'.  Anyone? 

I decided I had to make some changes.  And...I did.  I am mindful of how wrapped up I'd gotten in my 'persona' and how concerned I had become with the opinions of others.  I continue to grow each day, appreciative of all I'm learning and so grateful for the lessons I receive.  Own ALL facets of Lisa.  Not just the pretty, fluffy ones, but also the rough, darker aspects.  I strive daily to live a bit more authentically than I did the day before.  

And that rumbling of change?

I feel it.  And it's growing louder.  

So now what?!  The world is changing.  Systems are being challenged and falling.  Many are waking from the illusions.  They're questioning.  The people are demanding change.  Countries revolting.  And dammit, I'm an activist at heart!  I'm a truth-teller.  I'm a digger.  I'm a change-maker.  I'm a provocateur!

But...but...but...I'm a Lightworker!  Oh, the conundrum.  

I have always been resistant to the label Lightworker.  It sounds all light and fluffy, and I imagine I might be pictured floating a bit above the earth with butterflies fluttering around my silvery hair.  *insert choirs of angels singing here*  

Ahem.

YES, it's important to understand energy and frequency and to be mindful of what you're attracting.  

YES, the tools we've all acquired on the journey as Lightworkers are powerful, life-changing gifts.

YES, spreading the word on the importance of knowing you're in charge of your own energy is huge.

YES, living in dialogue with our guides, angels and God is a tremendous help as we walk this earth having our human experience.

Important stuff.  I'm deeply grateful for all I've learned.

But.

What about the call to service on other levels?  What about the truth-tellers, the activists, the protesters, the whistle-blowers?  Are they not bringing Light to the world as well?  Do they not deserve just as much credence if not *more* than the ones who are skipping merrily along focusing solely on the love n' light?

What happened to the balance?  Yin/Yang.  Light/Dark.  Masculine/Feminine.  

Can we really evolve as a human race if all we're doing is teaching Light Light Light and the darker shadowy stuff we feel we 'shouldn't' talk about keeps on happening while we look the other way?

I feel I must not be the only one who has struggled with some of these thoughts:  Dare I share something I'm very passionate about?  Will I look too pessimistic?  If I comment on this Facebook post, will it seem I'm always the naysayer or bringer of doom?  Will people think I've gone off the deep end if they know I believe this?  Will my credibility as a genuine spiritual being be questioned?

I want to bring Light to the world.  I will continue to bring Light.  But some random Tuesday it may come in the form of protesting for gender equality, on Thursday it may be by teaching Reiki, on Friday it may be a post on my page about religion, and on Sunday it may be by serving lunch at the mission.  But one thing I know for sure is that I'm done with the shame of it all.  

I suck at following rules.  I suck at listening to authority.  If someone in authority tells me something is a *truth*...I'm on it.  Nothing is truth.  It's what a majority of folks decided, but that does not make it true for everyone.  I suppose I'm an anarchist. (Oh!)    

I've never been able to understand why we blindly follow things we're told.  Without question.  Yes, we're indoctrinated from birth to follow authority.  They know best.  It's in our best interest to listen to the professionals.  But then we became free-thinking adults.  Free.  Thinking.  

Why not start questioning?

Because someone is in authority or a professional, perhaps we should ask what made them in authority or professionals in the first place?  Because they studied a specific curriculum?  Does that mean if a dentist is a professional in his field, he knows everything about teeth?  No.  He knows what he was taught.  In a formal, traditional western-schooled setting.  Not holistic.  Not eastern traditions.  Not energetic techniques.  He followed a set curriculum and can test on it, repeat it, and practice it verbatim.  But, it certainly does not mean he knows everything about teeth.  He practices his profession based on what he's been taught.  

That is all. 

Listen to your elected officials.  Why?  Because they told us it made us patriotic and good citizens.  Listen to the church of your upbringing.  Why?  Because they told us we'd go to hell if we didn't.  Listen to the politicians.  Why?  Because you have to be on one side or the other, and if you don't participate at all you must be ignorant.

Listen to the FDA, USDA, and the pharmaceutical companies.  Why?  Because they know what's best for us.

Listen to CNN, FOX, ABC, MSNBC.  Why?  Because they are your trusted news sources.

I.  Don't.  Get.  It.

We've been told for too long to go along and don't rock the boat.  A woman is a femiNAZI if she speaks of equality.  You are unAmerican if you protest war.  You are a socialist if you feel we should help the poor, sick and hungry.  You're a neglectful parent if you opt out of poison-filled vaccines.  You're shamed if you say you don't want to slice a piece of your son's penis off as a newborn.  Hide yourself if you breastfeed, it makes other uncomfortable.  If you ask for independent inquiries into government lies we've been fed, you're a crazy conspiracy theorist.  You're too sensitive if you think we should be mindful of racial slurs, developmental slurs or using groups of human beings as names of sports teams.  

It goes on and on.  Sit down and shut up.

On March 8th, just three days ago, it was International Women's Day.  You probably did not know this, because mainstream media had nothing about it.  I'm going to post a link and I invite you to read the article.  View the pictures.  Note the MANY countries around the world that had 1000's upon 1000's of women and men alike marching for women's issues/rights/awareness.  Did we see a thing in our country?  No.  When I saw the pics of cities all over the world with people coming together to create change, I thought, surely one of the corporate media giants would have at least something.  Not one thing.  The entire first page of Google was independent news sources.

See what set me off HERE

This pisses me off.  We are being spoon fed what they want us to see.  

Mainstream media is a joke.  Celebrity scandals and political division.  Pitting one against the other, all in an attempt to keep us hating the side we are not on.  

Divide and Distract.  It's working.
How about this...
Question things.  Question it all.  Yes, even Snopes.  Where is the money trail there?

When we finally stop blindly accepting what we're being fed, things will really move forward.

Do your research and see what you find for yourself.  

Hit the web.  

Find some great independent news sources and read what other global news outlets are saying.
Not one source, lots.  Discern.  Follow your gut. 

Finally, can we talk?  You share your ideas, I will share mine.  Let's stop worrying about what others might think.  What if when you share your thought, you've just given someone else the freedom to finally speak up and share the exact same thought they've been fearful of sharing.  Let the doubters talk.  Let the haters hate.  Let the naysayers nay.  Who cares.
Let's just talk.  The world needs dialogue in respectful, loving conversations.  To help the others come forward.  To grow the collective consciousness.  To change the world.  It's time.

Okay...rant done.  I need tea.

Go ahead...rub me the wrong way.

Trigger me...it's fine.  

Irritate me, even better. 

Piss me off, now we're getting somewhere.  

Infuriate me, oh, this is the good stuff.

Truly.  I welcome it.  I've come to understand and even embrace these moments for what they are.  Gifts.  Chances for me to see how I react and respond differently than I used to.  These opportunities allow me to gauge my growth, to see how I'm progressing on this journey.

I've not always thought this.  Ahem.  No, this has taken many grudges, arguments, tears, and temper tantrums.  But I've come to understand something about myself along the way.

See, when somebody says something that hurts me, questions my belief system, or challenges my current understanding, it's not about me.  Seriously, it's not personal.  

It honestly has nothing to do with me.  It is theirs.  All theirs.  Their belief.  Their truth.  From their lifetime of experiences, it is their reality.  AND...it's divine and perfect for them.

Here is the fun part.  *I* get to choose...or NOT choose to accept it as mine.  If I don't like it, if it doesn't fit, I simply don't take it on.  I don't take it as personal.  They can keep it, it's okay.  

Then I let it go.

I think sometimes we tend to get stuck on this part.  We hear a new piece of information, an opinion, a perspective and immediately going into defense mode.  "No, that's not true."  

"How stupid, where did you come up with that?"  "I do not!"  "That's weird, yuck."  

"I'd NEVER do something like that, it's wrong."

Hear all that judgment?  Ouch.

I LOVE that we don't need to define, label, or accept anything anyone else offers us.  We can simply allow someone to believe what they believe.  Without having to defend our belief or opinion about it.

One of my favorite stories I share with people in my work goes like this:  If you're standing in line waiting for something, and the person in front of you drops their bag, do you pick it up and rummage around in it, and keep its contents for yourself?  

Or would you tap them on the shoulder and give them back the bag they dropped?

Of course you'd give them back the bag!  

(To whomever shared this with me along the way...THANK YOU!)

So, why oh why, do we pick up people's 'bags' (beliefs/opinions/perspectives) so often and keep them for ourselves!?

They dropped their bag (belief/opinion/perspective).  Kindly hand it back to them and say, 

"Here, this belongs to you."  

It. Is. Not. Yours.

I used to be easily provoked into confrontation.  I'm a work in progress, but for the most part I really do my best to handle things differently now.  

It can be quite intriguing how my refusal to join an argument can tick folks off sometimes.   

I've gotten pretty adept at smiling and saying, "Interesting.  I've never thought about that before."  "Hm, there is a different concept."  "What a great world to be able to have so much diversity!"

Holding that new space creates freedom.  A space of open dialogue.  A space for the other person to speak their truth without fear of judgment.  A space of compassion and empathy.  

It also reminds me that I can change.  I can grow.  I can react in a new way.  

I can allow another being an opportunity to simply be who they are and to believe what they believe.  That feels pretty alright to me. :)

I challenge you to listen differently today.  

There is a great quote by Stephen R. Covey that states, 

"Most people do not listen with the intent to understand; they listen with the intent to reply."

There is some serious power in that statement.  If you're in disagreement with someone, challenged by their belief or opinion...unless your words will be delivered with love and compassion, don't immediately reply.  Ask yourself if there is a need TO reply or defend.  Or can you just allow that person their opinion?  Can you entertain their idea without accepting it as yours?

Oh, the liberation you feel as you start practicing this.  It's pretty sweet.

On the flip side...don't forget to speak your opinions and beliefs.  And speak them with no attachment to how they will be received.  Do not look for approval or understanding.  If your thoughts and ideas come from your heart, then speak them with ease and grace.  Let others' reactions be their own reactions.  It's not up to you to determine if they are able to handle your truth or not.  That is theirs.    

Imagine a world filled with people who just spoke truthfully, carried themselves peacefully, listened with the intention of hearing, and loved one another for their own individuality.  

Mmhmm....that's the world I wanna live in. 

Tend your garden.  Let others garden their own way.  Oh, and watch the world bloom freely.

      

Hush, Inner critic...HUSH.

The journey of life is a constant flow of experiences and new beginnings.  Sometimes I feel as if it's a month to month adventure of new beginnings for my creative spirit.  I've spent an incredible number of years judging myself because I actually love change.  But the inner critic whispers, and sometimes screams in my ear, "Pick something and stick to it!"  "You'll never amount to anything if you don't commit to something and follow through."  "When are you going to settle down?"  

"Uff, could you be a bigger flake?"  

This winter I've been still, quiet.  Listening to that inner critic.  Wondering when she became so tough to please.  Poking around the 'feels' of it all to see if it is mine, or if I'm taking on someone else's expectations unnecessarily.  I've spent many mornings in the past few months having tea with that critic, trying to truly hear what she's got to say.

Here is what I've garnered so far.  I can love and accept my willingness and sometimes eagerness to change.  I'm okay with shifting, growing and switching things up.  Honestly, it makes me feel alive and renewed.  It brings new experiences and challenges my way, and I *loooooove* that.

What I DO judge myself for is:

1.  Worrying that others won't understand and accept me for being different (flakey?).  

2.  Constantly gauging and weighing out how much of my opinion is okay to share with others.

3.  Aiming to please others while sacrificing my own truth.  

4.  Taking responsibility for how much I feel others can handle of my truth. 

5.  Compromising my work (holding back information and suggestions) for fear of being 'too out there'.

Ugh.  Who is this person?  When did this happen?  

I've always been on a bit of a different path.  Early on, I tried my best to fit in and frankly, I just sucked at it. When I really stepped into ownership of being unique and quirky, I felt such radiance.  I twirled through life and didn't give a care what people thought when I walked out of a room.  

Somewhere in the past several years, I started holding back.  Little by little, I started standing in boxes. Limiting myself.  Smiling politely and giving people what I thought they wanted.  In the meantime, I was judging myself so harshly for being hypocritical.  I was the first to tell anyone I met, "Live your dream." "Speak your truth."  And yet, there I was, smiling politely.  I think we all do it.  In one way or another. In one situation or another.  Choosing the road of less said, do not rock the boat.  

I've got ideas about the how, why and when this occurred.  It's my process, and I will keep rooting around so as to heal it.  But, acknowledging where I am at this moment is part of moving into the next phase of growth.  I want to give more.  I want to share more.  I want to speak my observations.  I want to incite dialogue and discussion.  Talk.  Talk.  Talk.  Entertain new ideas.  Ponder new notions.

I'm grateful for the insight and understanding, and grateful for the gift of self judgement.  It makes me aware of my shadow areas that need to be loved and nurtured.  Not avoided.  Loved.  

The parts of self we sometimes deny, hide or feel guilt and shame about.  

So, thank you judgement, my old friend, for showing me a dark corner of self to shine Light upon.  

In my self assessment, I've realized it's important to honor my heart and act.  So, I'm making some changes.  I'm not sure how they'll unfold.  I'm just taking a first step.  And sharing.  

I love the power of words.  Cleansing.  Clarifying.  Solidifying.  Purging.  PURIFYING.

I'm releasing the Lisa Dawn Howard FB business page.

  

If you're called, you can follow me at a new FB page called "She UnEarthed", where I will be sharing a wide variety of topics, with more insight into who I am, and where my journey has taken me.  Some may be uncomfortable with or disagree with some of my posts.  That's okay. 

If you read the ABOUT section of "She UnEarthed" you will see where I plan to go with the page.  I'm called to speak more freely, and the word UnEarthed is a big part of the next stepping stone of my path. Or, if you'd like, you can friend request me on my personal FB page.    

In addition, I'm redefining the services I offer.  This will be different than what I've done in the past. Many elements are the same, but each session will be an integration of all aspects of my journey.  

Deeper work, more diverse, and unique to your journey.  Spirit will show the way.

If you're interested in reading more about those changes, please check out www.lisadawnhoward.com

Also, I will be offering some new classes regarding the Divine Feminine, the Ascension process, connection with the Mother and and a few other things that are in the works.  Oh, did I mention an upcoming retreat?  (woop woop!)

Finally, I can't forget the rocks.  I've been working/meditating with stones this winter and have created a new line of jewelry based on the intentions and goals you're working on.  Rites of passage, milestones, and healing.  More on that to come.  But..yeah...rocks, stones and lotsa love. :)

If you're interested in the next leg of the journey with this Creatrix of Change, welcome...let's do this. :)