Despite what you see on the news, there's a lot more good going on around the world. In small towns and villages, in homes and schools, there are all these amazing acts of kindness that just don't call out for media attention.
I suspect that deep inside you, there's all this good just burning to get out.
It's just that when you see all this craziness that's going on out there, you wonder if your good will ever make a difference. Will one little act really matter?
Yes.
It'll matter more than you know.
It may not mean anything to the editors and the pundits, but that's not really what it's about anyway.
But the world seems to be in so much need, it's hard to know just where to begin, right?
You want to know the right answer?
Right where you are.
Right now.
Just look around for a need and fill it. Doesn't matter how big or small, how random or organized. Doesn't matter if you're the leader or a follower; if you end up with the credit or not.
When you don't have conditions on who and when and where and how and if and only and maybe and some day... that's where your most goodness can do the most good.
When it doesn't matter, that's when it matters the most.
So be open and give openly. When you help anything, you will help everything.
And as always...
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Monday, January 31, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
You are a gift but never let anyone put you in a box.
How many people 'get' you, really? I mean, really understand you?
Now how many people THINK they do?
How many people around you think they've got you all figured out? Or think they know you better than you know yourself? Or... Think they know what's BEST for you?
A lot more, huh?
People like to judge. Sometimes to make themselves feel better about themselves; sometimes it's their way of understanding others; and still others do it because you look or act differently than their idea of how the world is supposed to work.
But all too often, they don't wait for a jury before they lock you away in a box.
You don't have to get in.
You don't have to seal it up and put a bow on it and hope that someone else will come along and see you as a gift.
You're already a gift.
People want to open and discard the boxes as quickly as they can, to get to the gift inside. So why not save the time of not even confining yourself in the first place?
And besides, the boxes we carry around much of our lives... aren't real to begin with. We accept them because we want to hide, or think the box is better than we are, or put more value on someone else's judgment of us, rather than embrace our own.
You're amazing just the way you are. You don't need someone else to tell you that.
But if you think you do... If you're waiting for someone to unwrap you for all the world to see... Then here I am.
You're unwrapped.
Your box is gone.
And you're beautiful.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Now how many people THINK they do?
How many people around you think they've got you all figured out? Or think they know you better than you know yourself? Or... Think they know what's BEST for you?
A lot more, huh?
People like to judge. Sometimes to make themselves feel better about themselves; sometimes it's their way of understanding others; and still others do it because you look or act differently than their idea of how the world is supposed to work.
But all too often, they don't wait for a jury before they lock you away in a box.
You don't have to get in.
You don't have to seal it up and put a bow on it and hope that someone else will come along and see you as a gift.
You're already a gift.
People want to open and discard the boxes as quickly as they can, to get to the gift inside. So why not save the time of not even confining yourself in the first place?
And besides, the boxes we carry around much of our lives... aren't real to begin with. We accept them because we want to hide, or think the box is better than we are, or put more value on someone else's judgment of us, rather than embrace our own.
You're amazing just the way you are. You don't need someone else to tell you that.
But if you think you do... If you're waiting for someone to unwrap you for all the world to see... Then here I am.
You're unwrapped.
Your box is gone.
And you're beautiful.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Although They Look Alike At The Beginning, Never Confuse Charisma With Character
People love 'flashion'... The glitz and glamour that take your breath away and dream you were a 'better' person.
Admittedly, we like being impressed. If only for a little while, anyway.
We not only want the sparkle, we demand it... From our movie stars and politician and even some religious leaders. And it's all good, really. Charisma is attractive, even sexy sometimes... And if you've got IT, you've got it!
But...
It isn't the whole picture.
It's as special as a great paint job on your house. Good to have... But it just doesn't reveal what goes on inside those walls.
Like any good gift, it's what's inside that matters. It's Character that drives us, dictates our actions; gets our results.
Charisma might move others, but Character moves us.
As you travel along your growth path, think about who your role models are. Are they dynamic, or dramatic? And think about what you want to achieve out of life... Just make an impression, or actually mold the future?
So go forth and have character, instead of just trying to be one.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Admittedly, we like being impressed. If only for a little while, anyway.
We not only want the sparkle, we demand it... From our movie stars and politician and even some religious leaders. And it's all good, really. Charisma is attractive, even sexy sometimes... And if you've got IT, you've got it!
But...
It isn't the whole picture.
It's as special as a great paint job on your house. Good to have... But it just doesn't reveal what goes on inside those walls.
Like any good gift, it's what's inside that matters. It's Character that drives us, dictates our actions; gets our results.
Charisma might move others, but Character moves us.
As you travel along your growth path, think about who your role models are. Are they dynamic, or dramatic? And think about what you want to achieve out of life... Just make an impression, or actually mold the future?
So go forth and have character, instead of just trying to be one.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Here comes another 'Now'... Did you catch it? OK, try again...
The present moment is so short, but the good news is, there are plenty of them!
I've known quite a lot of people who spend their present moment looking back at all the other wasted presents, or frozen in time, panicked over moments that haven't come.
When our minds are in one time and our bodies in another, that chasm is what separates us from the life we desire.
But it is SO EASY to get back to the present moment.
Just simply throw away both of the notions of past and future. Just get ready for the present to meet you... and don't even worry if you need this moment to prepare for the next one. Just let the moment rush to you and catch its wave.
It really is an amazing ride, being swept up in the moment. There's this surge of energy, this sense of rightness... all because you're IN the moment.
So stop everything that you're doing, and... wait, you're still reading this? OK, finish up and get ready... here comes another one!
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
I've known quite a lot of people who spend their present moment looking back at all the other wasted presents, or frozen in time, panicked over moments that haven't come.
When our minds are in one time and our bodies in another, that chasm is what separates us from the life we desire.
But it is SO EASY to get back to the present moment.
Just simply throw away both of the notions of past and future. Just get ready for the present to meet you... and don't even worry if you need this moment to prepare for the next one. Just let the moment rush to you and catch its wave.
It really is an amazing ride, being swept up in the moment. There's this surge of energy, this sense of rightness... all because you're IN the moment.
So stop everything that you're doing, and... wait, you're still reading this? OK, finish up and get ready... here comes another one!
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Monday, January 17, 2011
Martin Luther King dreamt when people will be judged by character. I dream when people of character no longer judge.
Martin Luther King Jr wasn't blind to the chaotic world around him, but he chose to look beyond it, with hopeful eyes; believing that one day would be better.
As we look back today, some will think that we've made great progress; others will say it's not enough; while still others will complain we've gotten worse.
And they'd all be right (and maybe a little bit wrong too).
Just the other day my mother remarked about how things were better in the 1970's and I reminded her that her opinion back then didn't agree (cause back then, the 50's were much better).
Ah, the joys of a selective memory!
And yet, if you ask around today, we're either on the verge of a Great Illumination or a Great Annihilation.
You'd probably be right (and wrong) about that too.
In many ways the world hasn't changed at all; it's just has better coverage. Imagine the Nightly News with Attila the Hun coming over the hill or Dancing with the Saxons. What changes most is our perception of the world around us.
What you focus on, you will see. What you let in, you will experience.
It really is about you.
Do you want to see the world as a fearful, hate-driven catastrophy? You can find it. But would you rather see it as a loving, fascinating, joyous place to grow? You can find that too.
It's not about denying that bad things happen. It's believing that we can become better, in order to deny it from happening again.
To change the whole world takes time; to change your world only takes a moment.
So take that moment.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
As we look back today, some will think that we've made great progress; others will say it's not enough; while still others will complain we've gotten worse.
And they'd all be right (and maybe a little bit wrong too).
Just the other day my mother remarked about how things were better in the 1970's and I reminded her that her opinion back then didn't agree (cause back then, the 50's were much better).
Ah, the joys of a selective memory!
And yet, if you ask around today, we're either on the verge of a Great Illumination or a Great Annihilation.
You'd probably be right (and wrong) about that too.
In many ways the world hasn't changed at all; it's just has better coverage. Imagine the Nightly News with Attila the Hun coming over the hill or Dancing with the Saxons. What changes most is our perception of the world around us.
What you focus on, you will see. What you let in, you will experience.
It really is about you.
Do you want to see the world as a fearful, hate-driven catastrophy? You can find it. But would you rather see it as a loving, fascinating, joyous place to grow? You can find that too.
It's not about denying that bad things happen. It's believing that we can become better, in order to deny it from happening again.
To change the whole world takes time; to change your world only takes a moment.
So take that moment.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Friday, January 14, 2011
Winners do quit... They quit procrastinating, blaming others and making excuses.
I always liked the saying "Winners never quit and quitters never win" in context, because it encourages tenacity, persistence and a whole slew of other big words... but then when I've gotten to think about it, I realized that winners DO quit.. they just make better choices.
Quitters quit doing stuff because "It's hard" or "Too much work" or "They won't let me" (whoever those meanies are).
Winners just quit thinking that those are reasons to quit.
Guess what... it IS hard. Life IS unfair. There ARE people trying to stop you and the ARE tons of other people who don't want to help you.
Yuppers.
Guess what... it's also POSSIBLE to go to the moon, and climb the highest mountain and cure the "incurable" diseases. It's possible to find the love of your life in your final days. It's possible to do the very thing everyone else is telling you cannot be done.
Even though it's hard, and unfair, and a lonely uphill battle at times.
Yuppers. That too.
And guess what... it looks a lot easier to do once it's done.
So you have to decide WHAT you're going to quit...
Quit trying?
Quit dreaming altogether?
Or quit thinking that it can't be done?
Or quit thinking that you're not enough?
Or quit thinking that other people deserve it more than you do?
Just quit quitting already!!!
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Quitters quit doing stuff because "It's hard" or "Too much work" or "They won't let me" (whoever those meanies are).
Winners just quit thinking that those are reasons to quit.
Guess what... it IS hard. Life IS unfair. There ARE people trying to stop you and the ARE tons of other people who don't want to help you.
Yuppers.
Guess what... it's also POSSIBLE to go to the moon, and climb the highest mountain and cure the "incurable" diseases. It's possible to find the love of your life in your final days. It's possible to do the very thing everyone else is telling you cannot be done.
Even though it's hard, and unfair, and a lonely uphill battle at times.
Yuppers. That too.
And guess what... it looks a lot easier to do once it's done.
So you have to decide WHAT you're going to quit...
Quit trying?
Quit dreaming altogether?
Or quit thinking that it can't be done?
Or quit thinking that you're not enough?
Or quit thinking that other people deserve it more than you do?
Just quit quitting already!!!
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Not everything's going to go as planned. So plan on it.
One of the biggest threats to success is sticking to the plan over the purpose. Plans are great for starting off, and for staying on track, but it's really the route, not the road. There are going to be bumps and detours along the way, that you simply can't plan for. However there ARE things you can plan to bring with you, so that you can handle anything that comes up along the way.
Plan on Focus
Things really go awry when you forget why you're doing this in the first place. All it takes is looking where you're at instead of looking at where you're going... And you'll be lost in no time! So no matter how crazy everything seems at the moment, keep looking at the end goal.
Plan on Determination
Throw in a pinch of disappointment and your dreams can burst like a balloon. Don't just reaffirm what you want, reaffirm your commitment to getting there.
Plan on Flexibility
You can't make it around the bend in the road if you insist on going straight. Staying loose and willing to try new things opens more roads toward your destination.
Plan on Patience
Everything's going to take its time, regardless if you're calm or crazy. Accepting that won't necessarily change the outcome, but it certainly will change your experience getting to it.
Plan on Fun
Laughter has the same power of Release as crying, except without the anxiety. Seeing the humor in every situation actually WILL change the outcome because you won't be making all your decisions based on fear and frustration.
Plan on Learning
Life isn't just about expression, it's also about experience. So don't just get to your destination. Arrive there a better person.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Plan on Focus
Things really go awry when you forget why you're doing this in the first place. All it takes is looking where you're at instead of looking at where you're going... And you'll be lost in no time! So no matter how crazy everything seems at the moment, keep looking at the end goal.
Plan on Determination
Throw in a pinch of disappointment and your dreams can burst like a balloon. Don't just reaffirm what you want, reaffirm your commitment to getting there.
Plan on Flexibility
You can't make it around the bend in the road if you insist on going straight. Staying loose and willing to try new things opens more roads toward your destination.
Plan on Patience
Everything's going to take its time, regardless if you're calm or crazy. Accepting that won't necessarily change the outcome, but it certainly will change your experience getting to it.
Plan on Fun
Laughter has the same power of Release as crying, except without the anxiety. Seeing the humor in every situation actually WILL change the outcome because you won't be making all your decisions based on fear and frustration.
Plan on Learning
Life isn't just about expression, it's also about experience. So don't just get to your destination. Arrive there a better person.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Monday, January 10, 2011
Not living your Self fully is just plain self-ish.
I see SELF as "Seeing Everything Live Fully" ... with every aspect of your Being finding Expression and your Passions bringing you Fulfillment.
Yet how often do we replace joy with a job and triumphs with tribulations?
Do you really think you're given all these wonderful talents and dreams only to realize just a tiny portion of it?
Do you really want to live a life that's smaller than you are?
You see, the farther we get away from our Self Center, the more isolated we feel... and the more isolated we feel, the more we feel the need to grasp at everything on the outside as a means to feel complete.
That's what makes us self-ish.
It's not about wanting more, but rather about wanting to balance this deepening sense of less.
And it's that sense of less that gives us the mistaken impression that we're empty inside.
In fact, we feel "nothing" because we have no feelings about the outside that we're looking at. "Meaning" doesn't come from outside things. Outside things get their meaning from what we project from the Inside; from our Selves.
To get it back, all we have to do is turn our attention inward, beyond the silence, until we hear the tiny whisper of Self waiting to shout out.... to find that little light that will ignite the Fire of Fulfillment.
Living a little life is self-ish.
So become more Self-Centered...
And leave that light on!
GuruStu
Yet how often do we replace joy with a job and triumphs with tribulations?
Do you really think you're given all these wonderful talents and dreams only to realize just a tiny portion of it?
Do you really want to live a life that's smaller than you are?
You see, the farther we get away from our Self Center, the more isolated we feel... and the more isolated we feel, the more we feel the need to grasp at everything on the outside as a means to feel complete.
That's what makes us self-ish.
It's not about wanting more, but rather about wanting to balance this deepening sense of less.
And it's that sense of less that gives us the mistaken impression that we're empty inside.
In fact, we feel "nothing" because we have no feelings about the outside that we're looking at. "Meaning" doesn't come from outside things. Outside things get their meaning from what we project from the Inside; from our Selves.
To get it back, all we have to do is turn our attention inward, beyond the silence, until we hear the tiny whisper of Self waiting to shout out.... to find that little light that will ignite the Fire of Fulfillment.
Living a little life is self-ish.
So become more Self-Centered...
And leave that light on!
GuruStu
Thursday, January 06, 2011
Give Till it Works...
You all know the saying "Give and you shall receive" but how many of you actually know how that works? Or even believe that it does?
It has to do with Balance.
The Universe lives for that stuff.
Whenever it's not busy creating complete chaos, it's working overtime to balance it all out. Kind of like the ocean tides... in... out... high... low... lather... rinse... repeat.
Whenever something is taken from one place, it leaves a void... and that void has to be filled back up. It has to keep moving in order to 'live'.
When all you do is take, the void will often suck back the energy that you took. It won't be in the same form, but it will have the same value. This goes by a number of names... Cause & Effect... Karma... y'know.
Now the fun part is that the reverse balance is also true.
When you give, you also create a void... and that void must be filled with the same value that goes out.
You starting to catch my drift here?
Life rewards VALUE.
Just think about all the things you buy at the store... aren't you drawn to it because of its VALUE to you?
Value is Attractive.
So all this talk about goal setting and visualization are great, but they're just kindling. You ignite the fire by lighting up your VALUE.
Giving off that heat is what works.
So if you haven't been getting all you want in life, don't look around for what you can get... or hold on tight to what you have left... look around for what you can GIVE.
Do that, and you will definitely...
Keep that light on!
GuruStu
It has to do with Balance.
The Universe lives for that stuff.
Whenever it's not busy creating complete chaos, it's working overtime to balance it all out. Kind of like the ocean tides... in... out... high... low... lather... rinse... repeat.
Whenever something is taken from one place, it leaves a void... and that void has to be filled back up. It has to keep moving in order to 'live'.
When all you do is take, the void will often suck back the energy that you took. It won't be in the same form, but it will have the same value. This goes by a number of names... Cause & Effect... Karma... y'know.
Now the fun part is that the reverse balance is also true.
When you give, you also create a void... and that void must be filled with the same value that goes out.
You starting to catch my drift here?
Life rewards VALUE.
Just think about all the things you buy at the store... aren't you drawn to it because of its VALUE to you?
Value is Attractive.
So all this talk about goal setting and visualization are great, but they're just kindling. You ignite the fire by lighting up your VALUE.
Giving off that heat is what works.
So if you haven't been getting all you want in life, don't look around for what you can get... or hold on tight to what you have left... look around for what you can GIVE.
Do that, and you will definitely...
Keep that light on!
GuruStu
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Focusing on everyone else's business blurs your own.
All you have to do is spend a few minutes in a company lunchroom or read the peanut gallery comments of just about every online article and you'll quickly see... people love getting into everyone else's business. Reality shows and gossip magazines; Facebook Pix and the Twitterverse; everyone knows what's going on in someone else's life... but they have no clue what's going on in theirs.
Do you?
Minding other people's business is sometimes obvious, sometimes not. You might think that focusing on the competition is good business, but it can be distracting. Even if they're in your rear view mirror, you ought to spend more time looking ahead than behind.
And then there's your family's business... and your neighbor's business... and the Government's business... and some foreign country's business, even though you can't find them on the map... and... and... and...
When do you ever have any time for minding your own business?
You know that if you don't mind your own business that someone else might just mind it for you... (you know who they are already... they're the ones you want to scream at, "mind your own business!!")
Time is so precious. It's what our lives are made of. Do you really want to give all of yours away to someone else? Do you really think that minding their business is going to really make as big of a difference to them... as minding your own business will do for you?
So take your focus off of everyone else's business, and put it back onto your own dreams and aspirations.
I say this in all sincerity...
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!
Because it matters.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Do you?
Minding other people's business is sometimes obvious, sometimes not. You might think that focusing on the competition is good business, but it can be distracting. Even if they're in your rear view mirror, you ought to spend more time looking ahead than behind.
And then there's your family's business... and your neighbor's business... and the Government's business... and some foreign country's business, even though you can't find them on the map... and... and... and...
When do you ever have any time for minding your own business?
You know that if you don't mind your own business that someone else might just mind it for you... (you know who they are already... they're the ones you want to scream at, "mind your own business!!")
Time is so precious. It's what our lives are made of. Do you really want to give all of yours away to someone else? Do you really think that minding their business is going to really make as big of a difference to them... as minding your own business will do for you?
So take your focus off of everyone else's business, and put it back onto your own dreams and aspirations.
I say this in all sincerity...
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS!
Because it matters.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Set your goals beyond what you CAN do, not beyond what you CAN'T
So many people have such lofty goals; and they're all so wonderful. That is, until you ask them what they're going to do to get there. All of a sudden, you get this barrage of Ifs and Can'ts and Buts.
Why do that to yourself?
Why torment yourself with this ideal of amazing achievements only to label it a 'dream' and live a 'reality' full of disappointment, shame and blame?
'Realistic' is anything you bring into Life. Those people who've accomplished really, really big stuff weren't 'lucky'... they just believed in their dreams and didn't let up until their life matched.
Do you know why they can have that life and you can't?
Because you're putting all this distance between you and your dreams... with impossibilities and doubts. Instead of having goals in line with what you're good at, and passionate about, you put it behind everything you're NOT.
And you wonder why your dreams are NOT?
It's the new year... the time we look back at what we've done, and look forward with hope and expectations for a better year. Don't waste your time and effort on shoulda's and coulda's that you just know you're not going to finish.
Focus on what you CAN do... express all that you're good at.
You CAN achieve anything and everything you want... providing it's on the end of the right road.
Happy, successful journey to you.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Why do that to yourself?
Why torment yourself with this ideal of amazing achievements only to label it a 'dream' and live a 'reality' full of disappointment, shame and blame?
'Realistic' is anything you bring into Life. Those people who've accomplished really, really big stuff weren't 'lucky'... they just believed in their dreams and didn't let up until their life matched.
Do you know why they can have that life and you can't?
Because you're putting all this distance between you and your dreams... with impossibilities and doubts. Instead of having goals in line with what you're good at, and passionate about, you put it behind everything you're NOT.
And you wonder why your dreams are NOT?
It's the new year... the time we look back at what we've done, and look forward with hope and expectations for a better year. Don't waste your time and effort on shoulda's and coulda's that you just know you're not going to finish.
Focus on what you CAN do... express all that you're good at.
You CAN achieve anything and everything you want... providing it's on the end of the right road.
Happy, successful journey to you.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Monday, January 03, 2011
Don't base your resolutions on what you're going to DO; base them on who you're going to BE!
Now that Resolutions are back in vogue, everybody's making them. Yet, all too often, they're made from flimsy material, so they fall apart by February.
The problem is not in your intention, or even your initial effort. The biggest thing that topples a good Resolution is your approach.
You're focusing on what you should DO.
"I need to go to the gym", "I need to stop smoking", "I need to blah blah blah" and "yadda yadda yadda"... "and, oh yeah, I need to do that too!"
We do what we are... so if you do something you aren't, then it's only a matter of time before you stop DO-ing it.
To have success, focus instead on WHO YOU WANT TO BE.
Instead of saying, "I need to lose ______ pounds", say "I am going to be _____ pounds." (The end result, not the path to it)
Then go about living the life of that person. A person who is ______ pounds doesn't eat that junk food, and they exercise... because they do what they are.
So, you... BE that, and DO that.
And you'll discover the secret to finding a real solution!
Have an awesome year, with the light on!
GuruStu
The problem is not in your intention, or even your initial effort. The biggest thing that topples a good Resolution is your approach.
You're focusing on what you should DO.
"I need to go to the gym", "I need to stop smoking", "I need to blah blah blah" and "yadda yadda yadda"... "and, oh yeah, I need to do that too!"
We do what we are... so if you do something you aren't, then it's only a matter of time before you stop DO-ing it.
To have success, focus instead on WHO YOU WANT TO BE.
Instead of saying, "I need to lose ______ pounds", say "I am going to be _____ pounds." (The end result, not the path to it)
Then go about living the life of that person. A person who is ______ pounds doesn't eat that junk food, and they exercise... because they do what they are.
So, you... BE that, and DO that.
And you'll discover the secret to finding a real solution!
Have an awesome year, with the light on!
GuruStu
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Trim more than the tree this holiday season
All through December, the focus is on trimming the tree, until January, when the focus is on trimming the waistline... but there’s so much more to trimming than baubles, beads and bellies. Trimming down has a way of freeing us. We can fly higher because we’re not weighed down so much.
Trim Your Possessions
I love to ‘clean house’ at the end of every year. I go through my closet and take out everything and 20% is not allowed back in. I go though the books I’m finished reading, and set aside 10% for charity and 10% for friends and then I do a sweep through my house for anything else whose time has come.
Taking it to a charity does many things. It puts your stuff to good use, it helps others in need, it’s a great tax write-off and it just feels good to help.
Trim Your Expenses
Lowering your expenses is not just for bad economies anymore. There are so many ways to save money, with very little effort, and without sacrificing quality. You can cut out those things you just don’t need (I got rid of all the “special packages” that the cable company offers; you may even want to get rid of the cable altogether). You can exchange one service for another that’s less expensive (like shopping around for phone service or insurance). You could even ask for lower rates, if your service provider wants to keep you as a customer. And, of course, there are always coupons (same great product, only cheaper).
Take care of the pennies and the dollars will take care of themselves.
Trim Your Associations
When MySpace and Facebook first came out, it became a race to see who could get the most “friends”... but seriously, ask yourself this, if you were ever in need of help, who would really come to your rescue and who would just tweet about it? And IRL (In Real Life) how many people do you deal with that take up more time than you’ve got?
It might seem bad to separate yourself from others. After all, no one likes being ‘rejected’ just as much as you might not like being seen as ‘selfish’ but it’s time to take a close look at all the people in your life. There are those that really love and care about you... and they’re not getting as much time as they could because of these ‘other people’.
Trim Your Commitments
It’s amazing how much stuff we DO. We spend so much time DOING that we have no time to get anything DONE. I know, I know, the world will come to an end of you don’t do XYZ; and if you don’t do it, it won’t get done... yadda yadda yadda. Sit down and look at your calendar. For every five things you do, consider dropping one of them. That’s 20% right there.
Trim Your Extras
And then there’s just STUFF… you know, the miscellaneous stuff that just sort of tags along in your life. I’d list them, but I just don’t have the time. Don’t worry, if you look, you’ll spot them. Just look at everything in your life, and if it’s just sort of “there” which doesn’t really add much to your “here” then just let it go.
If you do all that, what you’ll get in exchange is more time, more space and more money. Then you can take your remaining 80% and give it your all!
If you forget the list, just remember P-ossessions, E-xpenses, A-ssociations, C-Commitments, E-xtras. You’ll also get PEACE… and isn’t that really what it’s all about?
Peace, out!
And keep the light on!
GuruStu
Trim Your Possessions
I love to ‘clean house’ at the end of every year. I go through my closet and take out everything and 20% is not allowed back in. I go though the books I’m finished reading, and set aside 10% for charity and 10% for friends and then I do a sweep through my house for anything else whose time has come.
Taking it to a charity does many things. It puts your stuff to good use, it helps others in need, it’s a great tax write-off and it just feels good to help.
Trim Your Expenses
Lowering your expenses is not just for bad economies anymore. There are so many ways to save money, with very little effort, and without sacrificing quality. You can cut out those things you just don’t need (I got rid of all the “special packages” that the cable company offers; you may even want to get rid of the cable altogether). You can exchange one service for another that’s less expensive (like shopping around for phone service or insurance). You could even ask for lower rates, if your service provider wants to keep you as a customer. And, of course, there are always coupons (same great product, only cheaper).
Take care of the pennies and the dollars will take care of themselves.
Trim Your Associations
When MySpace and Facebook first came out, it became a race to see who could get the most “friends”... but seriously, ask yourself this, if you were ever in need of help, who would really come to your rescue and who would just tweet about it? And IRL (In Real Life) how many people do you deal with that take up more time than you’ve got?
It might seem bad to separate yourself from others. After all, no one likes being ‘rejected’ just as much as you might not like being seen as ‘selfish’ but it’s time to take a close look at all the people in your life. There are those that really love and care about you... and they’re not getting as much time as they could because of these ‘other people’.
Trim Your Commitments
It’s amazing how much stuff we DO. We spend so much time DOING that we have no time to get anything DONE. I know, I know, the world will come to an end of you don’t do XYZ; and if you don’t do it, it won’t get done... yadda yadda yadda. Sit down and look at your calendar. For every five things you do, consider dropping one of them. That’s 20% right there.
Trim Your Extras
And then there’s just STUFF… you know, the miscellaneous stuff that just sort of tags along in your life. I’d list them, but I just don’t have the time. Don’t worry, if you look, you’ll spot them. Just look at everything in your life, and if it’s just sort of “there” which doesn’t really add much to your “here” then just let it go.
If you do all that, what you’ll get in exchange is more time, more space and more money. Then you can take your remaining 80% and give it your all!
If you forget the list, just remember P-ossessions, E-xpenses, A-ssociations, C-Commitments, E-xtras. You’ll also get PEACE… and isn’t that really what it’s all about?
Peace, out!
And keep the light on!
GuruStu
Friday, December 24, 2010
You're prefect just the way you are
The problem with ‘Perfect’ is that it’s constantly moving and shifting. As soon as you think you’ve got it, someone else comes along to tell you that it’s something else entirely!
You’ve heard the saying “nobody’s perfect” so why even try? The pressure’s too much, and you’re bound for disappointment.
Instead focus on becoming your best, and doing your best each and every single time. Sure, run the race to be #1, but don’t label that as “perfect”. Doing your best and getting the best results are where it’s at.
And to that I add… “even when you’re not #1”
Do you know why we’re not “perfect”? It’s so we’ve got something to work on while we’re here in Life. It gives us something to strive for, and something to look back on and say “hey, I did it!”
And just between you and me, don’t you find “imperfect” people more interesting? People with quirky ways of seeing things, and scars with stories? I love those people!
People who are people.
People who not only embrace their humanity, but raise up the very definition of humanity just by being themselves.
That’s why I love you.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
You’ve heard the saying “nobody’s perfect” so why even try? The pressure’s too much, and you’re bound for disappointment.
Instead focus on becoming your best, and doing your best each and every single time. Sure, run the race to be #1, but don’t label that as “perfect”. Doing your best and getting the best results are where it’s at.
And to that I add… “even when you’re not #1”
Do you know why we’re not “perfect”? It’s so we’ve got something to work on while we’re here in Life. It gives us something to strive for, and something to look back on and say “hey, I did it!”
And just between you and me, don’t you find “imperfect” people more interesting? People with quirky ways of seeing things, and scars with stories? I love those people!
People who are people.
People who not only embrace their humanity, but raise up the very definition of humanity just by being themselves.
That’s why I love you.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Just because one chapter is closed, doesn't mean the story's over
There’s a lyric in the song “Closing Time” by Semisonic that says so much, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
Sometimes we get so caught up in something that when it ends, as most things do, we end up overwhelmed by grief.
Now there are monumental times in our lives that require grieving, and those moments need to be revered; but getting caught up in grieving every... little... ending... only ties us to the past. We stay stuck like a lead balloon.
OK, let’s face it, change is uncomfortable. It’s unfamiliar, full of uncertainty and our imaginations can fill in the unknown with all sorts of monsters… but it’s also incredibly exciting! New experiences lead to new growth. It can lead to the letting go of bad habits and the disappointments of unfulfilled expectations. It’s hopeful.
So when some chapter of your life is done, just be grateful for all that it has done for you; then look ahead. There’s still so much more of YOU left untold.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Sometimes we get so caught up in something that when it ends, as most things do, we end up overwhelmed by grief.
Now there are monumental times in our lives that require grieving, and those moments need to be revered; but getting caught up in grieving every... little... ending... only ties us to the past. We stay stuck like a lead balloon.
OK, let’s face it, change is uncomfortable. It’s unfamiliar, full of uncertainty and our imaginations can fill in the unknown with all sorts of monsters… but it’s also incredibly exciting! New experiences lead to new growth. It can lead to the letting go of bad habits and the disappointments of unfulfilled expectations. It’s hopeful.
So when some chapter of your life is done, just be grateful for all that it has done for you; then look ahead. There’s still so much more of YOU left untold.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Believe it's going to get better... even on the good days
You ever notice that we cheer ourselves up through the bad times by reciting “It’s going to get better” yet when things are going really good we forget about it... or worse, think “this isn’t going to last”? You wouldn’t think you’d think of sabotaging all the good things in life, but it happens all the time; in very subtle ways. They may not even be catastrophic setbacks, just tiny little adjustments that keep you from getting higher than you’ve gotten in the past.
So when things are starting to go your way, keep checking in with what you’re saying to yourself and others about those moments. Are you playing humble (“Oh it was nothing”)? Or self-sacrificing (“I don’t deserve this”)? Or are you being receptive (“I like this!”) and grateful (“Thank you!!”)?
You know something... gravity has been lying to you. It gave you the idea that what goes up MUST come down... and you’ve been applying that to EVERYTHING else in your life.
What goes up can keep going up. There’s really no limit. Beyond UP is OUT... and OUT is infinite.
So get OUT of your own way, and keep UP now, will you?!
And keep that light on!
GuruStu
So when things are starting to go your way, keep checking in with what you’re saying to yourself and others about those moments. Are you playing humble (“Oh it was nothing”)? Or self-sacrificing (“I don’t deserve this”)? Or are you being receptive (“I like this!”) and grateful (“Thank you!!”)?
You know something... gravity has been lying to you. It gave you the idea that what goes up MUST come down... and you’ve been applying that to EVERYTHING else in your life.
What goes up can keep going up. There’s really no limit. Beyond UP is OUT... and OUT is infinite.
So get OUT of your own way, and keep UP now, will you?!
And keep that light on!
GuruStu
Sunday, December 05, 2010
Sometimes stepping back is moving forward.
You know that saying "Can't see the forest for the trees." Basically it means, you're just too close. You can't see the big picture and everything just seems so much bigger than it really is.
Kind of like Life, eh?
Often times, you'll hear me say that the answers really ARE that simple. Actually, most answers are simpler than we think. It's just whenever I say that, the other person then engulfs me with all the reasons that their situation is DIFFERENT... detail after detail, trying to get me to see things as close as they do.
Well, blinding me with details won't actually solve your problem.
Backing away from it will.
When was the last time you actually took a break? Do you actually take a day off each week just to catch your breath? Or do you pack those days up with all the details you neglect during the week?
How about just taking a break during the day... for ten minutes at a time? Or do you 'just don't have the time'?
When you're constantly too close, you lose more than just the bigger picture... you lose time as well. When you don't take the time, you actually end up not having the time.
That seems contradictory, but it really isn't.
When you take a break, and step back, you get insight that can save you time in the long run. It's like being on the top of the mountain, where you can see a shorter route that you wouldn't notice if you were in the valley below.
So this week, take the time to step back. Give yourself some breathing room... give yourself some space to get a fresher perspective... take a moment for your Self... and you'll see just how far forward you can go by stepping back.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Kind of like Life, eh?
Often times, you'll hear me say that the answers really ARE that simple. Actually, most answers are simpler than we think. It's just whenever I say that, the other person then engulfs me with all the reasons that their situation is DIFFERENT... detail after detail, trying to get me to see things as close as they do.
Well, blinding me with details won't actually solve your problem.
Backing away from it will.
When was the last time you actually took a break? Do you actually take a day off each week just to catch your breath? Or do you pack those days up with all the details you neglect during the week?
How about just taking a break during the day... for ten minutes at a time? Or do you 'just don't have the time'?
When you're constantly too close, you lose more than just the bigger picture... you lose time as well. When you don't take the time, you actually end up not having the time.
That seems contradictory, but it really isn't.
When you take a break, and step back, you get insight that can save you time in the long run. It's like being on the top of the mountain, where you can see a shorter route that you wouldn't notice if you were in the valley below.
So this week, take the time to step back. Give yourself some breathing room... give yourself some space to get a fresher perspective... take a moment for your Self... and you'll see just how far forward you can go by stepping back.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Anything that ruffles your feathers is just a reminder that you've got wings.
A million times a day, you can find something to irk you... turn on the TV, read a newspaper or listen in on your co-workers latest rant for a few minutes and you'll find yourself boiling over in no time. That's because there's always going to be something to complain about, just because someone doesn't see things the same way you do.
Do you really want your day to be all about THAT?
Oh, sure, you say "I can't help it" or "I've got to be informed about what's going on around me"... but, yes, you CAN help it... and, no, you don't need to be informed... if that information disrupts your inner peace.
Yes, I know it's your (spouse, kids, parents, siblings, insert your other choice here)... of course, drama just has this nasty knack of finding you.
But...
It stops at YOU. You're the gatekeeper. You decide if it gets in or not... you let it get to you... or not.
When the wind blows against you, your feathers are going to get ruffled... but guess what... that means you've got feathers... attached to your WINGS.
And if you've got wings, you can FLY... you can RISE above it all.
So turn it OFF, tune it OUT and take it UP.
And, as always, keep the light on!
GuruStu
Do you really want your day to be all about THAT?
Oh, sure, you say "I can't help it" or "I've got to be informed about what's going on around me"... but, yes, you CAN help it... and, no, you don't need to be informed... if that information disrupts your inner peace.
Yes, I know it's your (spouse, kids, parents, siblings, insert your other choice here)... of course, drama just has this nasty knack of finding you.
But...
It stops at YOU. You're the gatekeeper. You decide if it gets in or not... you let it get to you... or not.
When the wind blows against you, your feathers are going to get ruffled... but guess what... that means you've got feathers... attached to your WINGS.
And if you've got wings, you can FLY... you can RISE above it all.
So turn it OFF, tune it OUT and take it UP.
And, as always, keep the light on!
GuruStu
Thursday, November 25, 2010
It's a hand out when you give TO somebody, but a hand up when you give FOR somebody.
Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday here in the U.S. It's a time that reminds us to stop and be grateful for what we have and marks the beginning of the Holiday Season. It's a time when we shift our focus to the giving to others, especially the less fortunate. While I think that's wonderful, and is far better than "nothing at all" I want to give this word of warning...
Don't give TO somebody. It might give someone a warm stomach, but it won't give them a warm heart. It won't solve their problems... and really, you're only doing it to absolve yourself; to feel better for a year of treating others like they are invisible or worse a plague on a otherwise pristine world.
Instead, as we head into this season, think about giving FOR somebody. Really focus on what THEY need. Yes, they need money. Yes they need a warm meal and a warm place to lay their head... but they also need you to SEE them. A smile, a "hello"; something to say "yes, you still matter."
They need help to help themselves. Some need medicines and social services, others need education and a chance. Compassion and respect are not "Entitlements" to be tossed aside during budget cuts. Doing that only costs US more.
So by all means, give those donations to charities, spend your day on at a food bank. It will matter.
Just don't let these acts of kindness disappear like a New Years resolution.
In January and February.... in July, when you're off to Disneyland... every day... help others. It will matter then just as much as now; maybe even more so.
But don't do it for YOU, because then it's just another way to separate you from others.
Today is Thanks GIVING... so be thankful, not just for what you HAVE, or what you'll GET next month, but for what you can GIVE... today, and every day.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Don't give TO somebody. It might give someone a warm stomach, but it won't give them a warm heart. It won't solve their problems... and really, you're only doing it to absolve yourself; to feel better for a year of treating others like they are invisible or worse a plague on a otherwise pristine world.
Instead, as we head into this season, think about giving FOR somebody. Really focus on what THEY need. Yes, they need money. Yes they need a warm meal and a warm place to lay their head... but they also need you to SEE them. A smile, a "hello"; something to say "yes, you still matter."
They need help to help themselves. Some need medicines and social services, others need education and a chance. Compassion and respect are not "Entitlements" to be tossed aside during budget cuts. Doing that only costs US more.
So by all means, give those donations to charities, spend your day on at a food bank. It will matter.
Just don't let these acts of kindness disappear like a New Years resolution.
In January and February.... in July, when you're off to Disneyland... every day... help others. It will matter then just as much as now; maybe even more so.
But don't do it for YOU, because then it's just another way to separate you from others.
Today is Thanks GIVING... so be thankful, not just for what you HAVE, or what you'll GET next month, but for what you can GIVE... today, and every day.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
To all the Madonnas of the world...
One of the most amazing events of this year has been the Next Top Spiritual Author Contest. Although I was thrilled to make it to Round 3, I was even more thrilled to make friends with some truly amazing people.
I'm sharing their light every chance I get...
That's why I wanted to tell you about Karen McGregor. Karen’s mission to touch 1 million souls with her book “The Madonna Code - Mysteries of the Divine Feminine Unveiled.”The book is having a special sale on Wednesday, Nov 24th only, so I hope you check out the details below and pick up a copy.
Just so you know, this is not a affiliate program and I'm not getting anything for it... well, other than tons of good will.
Keep the light on!
GuruStu
About The Madonna Code
As a result of a three-year journey through the disintegration of her marriage, loss of her business partners and family illness, Karen McGregor gained profound insights, wisdom and life changing tools. She discovered the radiant power and beauty of an open heart. In the Madonna Code, she guides you through tools and processes to unveil the code and open to your deepest purpose and highest calling.
“The Madonna Code shows us how to transcend personal challenges and call forth Sacred Heart Wisdom. This book is a gem and will bring you back to your Highest Self.”
- James Twyman, Peace Troubadour and bestselling author of “The Moses Code” and “The Barn Dance”
One of the things you'll love about this unity conscious project is that in order to reach her goal Karen’s sponsors are giving away over $2,000 in Spiritual gifts for one day only.
These gifts include meditation audios, eBooks, huge discounts on workshops, retreats and private coaching, E-courses, Energy and Intuitive coaching, magazine subscriptions and other spiritual services when you buy just 1 copy of "The Madonna Code - Mysteries of the Divine Feminine Unveiled” at Amazon.ca or Amazon.com for just $19.95 US Plus if you buy TWO copies you will get FREE Shipping! (That's a saving of $11.20)
To order your book and claim your free gifts please go to
www.spiritualauthorscircle.com
Here is just a brief glimpse of the many bonuses you'll get:
Kris Steinnes
Gift #1
mp3 of Judith Orloff’s talk “Second Sight”, Circle Leadership by Kris Steinnes, award-winning author of the bestselling Women of Wisdom
Hannelore
Gift #10 MP3 of ‘‘Meditation for the Soul’ – Daily Inspiration – Guided Meditation with Hannelore
You are guided to enter your Sanctuary where you will meet your Angel/Guide and receive your inspiration for the day.
$15 value
Gift #11 $200 gift toward the ‘Communing With Dolphins’ Retreats in Hawaii
www.CommuningwithDolphins.com
www.Hannelore.ca
value: $200
Miriam Evers
Gift #17 E-Book – Feel Great Naked – A Magical Tool for Shifting the Way You Feel About Your Body
Dr. Bobby Love
Gift #19 E-Book – Syncrohearts 7 Essential Steps to More Loving Relationships. These seven steps will lovingly guide you along the path to more love for yourself and for your relationship. $9.95 value.
Aspire Magazine
Gift #54 Inspiration for a Woman’s Soul – Free 1 yr Subscription to Aspire Magazine
The Premiere Inspirational Magazine for Women since 2005
www.SubscribetoAspire.com
Christina Ambubuyog
Gift #25 E-Book and 4 Part E-Course: “11 Fabulous Ways to Awaken Your Intuition” $97 value
Gift #26 – for the first 15 - value $100
Complimentary 60 Minute *SOUL* Activation Call : On this one call alone, you’ll experience a powerful shift in clarity, find out how to begin to activate your intuition and get clear about the next steps for you to take on your path of Divine Purpose.
Host, Finding Magic in Midlife Radio Show
Gift #8 The Power of Creative Intent, Divine Thought and Miracles – Mp3 – $25 value
$22 value includes postage.
$15 Value
Kat Tansey
Author of award winning book:
Choosing to Be: Lessons in Living from a Feline Zen Master
www.choosingtobe.comwww.exceptionalwisdomradio.com
Choosing to Be: Lessons in Living from a Feline Zen Master
www.choosingtobe.comwww.exceptionalwisdomradio.com
Nancy Kerner
Gift #6 Higher Purpose for Life! Mp3 $25 value
Gift #6 Higher Purpose for Life! Mp3 $25 value
Diane Lauzon
Gift #23 5 Free Greeting cards that you can custom create online, with your unique message and personal photos or choose from a catalog of beautiful and inspirational cards for any occasion.
Gift #23 5 Free Greeting cards that you can custom create online, with your unique message and personal photos or choose from a catalog of beautiful and inspirational cards for any occasion.
Kandi Phillips
Gift #34 Feng Shui Green Living – mp3 Learn how the items in your home are detrimental to your health.
Gift #35 Intro to Feng Shui – mp3 Discusses the key three elements of a space for a more harmonious environment.
Gift #34 Feng Shui Green Living – mp3 Learn how the items in your home are detrimental to your health.
Gift #35 Intro to Feng Shui – mp3 Discusses the key three elements of a space for a more harmonious environment.
Christine Monaghan
Gift#45 www.healthmentorship.com specializes in: marketing consulting for health & spiritual growth sector experts One hour marketing mentor telephone consultation for entrepreneurs.
$100 value – first 100.
To see the full list of gifts please visit
http://spiritualauthorscircle.com/?page_id=65
Gift#45 www.healthmentorship.com specializes in: marketing consulting for health & spiritual growth sector experts One hour marketing mentor telephone consultation for entrepreneurs.
$100 value – first 100.
To see the full list of gifts please visit
http://spiritualauthorscircle.com/?page_id=65
Thank you for ordering “The Madonna Code” and enjoy your gifts! By ordering just one book you could be doing all your Christmas shopping in one go if you wanted to use your Free gifts as Christmas presents!
Don't delay placing your order, this offer is only open for today November 24th.
Influence Publishing and the Spiritual Authors Circle of friends
p.s. If you order between 11.11am and noon PST, you will also be entered into a free draw to win a personal intuitive reading with Karen McGregor and get free entry to all the Divine You events for 2011!
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