Not Just a Dreamer

Dream on, dreamer.

Close your eyes, and lay it all out. All of those attainable desires. There’s power in visualizing. There’s beauty in manifestation. Let’s go to the place where we do not lack confidence. The place where abundance is true. It’s real. Let’s dance the dance of dreams becoming reality. Let’s pray our love reaches far and wide, to places uncountable. Dream on, dreamer, for you have no limitations. For any and all is possible, because you are real, and was once nothing at all.

Dream on…

Boat.

Cartagena, Colombia. 2018.

I’m not a great swimmer. It may be one of the reasons I dream a lot about large bodies of water. In this physical life, I practice safety around it, which has pretty much become a natural instinct to “stay away from the deep end”. This could easily be defined as a fear of drowning. Figuratively, I am continuously drawn to explore what’s below the surface. Yet, the dive is not always simple.

In my dreams, I am free of concern. I float, I fly, I maneuver with ease. No swimming. No drowning. I am in a calm control over the experience. I make my way to wherever I feel the desire to go. That’s what it’s all about. Being present, fully aware, having vision, and letting nothing stop me, letting nothing discourage me, letting nothing delay me from maneuvering through time and space for the simple pleasure of just being. The simple pleasure of just acting on feelings. The simple pleasure of allowing my desires to live fully, and fade away freely. I become inspired each time to live in this manner with opened eyes.

Where am I going? Wherever I please.

How will I get there? By any means…

Imagine That.

“I decided long ago, never to walk in anyone’s shadows. If I fail, if I succeed, at least I lived as I believe.”

…about living your dreams

When we were young, we did not hesitate. We did exactly what we wanted to do, because all we knew was that moment we were in. We didn’t understand the concept of “future.” Look around, that’s all everyone is obsessed with. It’s a shame. Life is swept away, because it’s controlled by what has not yet happened. The flowers that stand today are overlooked, because people want to see the flowers that will grow tomorrow, as if that is more interesting, more valuable.

When we were young, we did not hesitate. Even when we were told not to do something, we listened to ourselves and did things anyway – it was human instinct to do that. It’s natural to listen to thyself, and allow the spirit to move you. We’ve been told “no” over and over again, to the point it has conditioned us to be fearful of simply trying. Reverse that condition! Change your environment, and go to a place where you believe in your desires and potential. Say “yes” to your dreams.

When we were young, we did not hesitate. We listened to our inner child. We played. We laughed. We vividly expressed our emotions. It was okay. It still is! We got hurt. We got back up. We tried new things. Then we were told what to do, all the time. That’s not always necessary, especially when the people telling you what to do don’t know what they’re doing themselves. We’re all just figuring it out. Stop walking in their shadows. Listen to yourself. Do what feels right. Let your spirit guide you. We’re all inspired by individuality, so just be yourself. Close your eyes, dare to dream, and when you open them – I hope and pray you’re where you want to be.

“Imagine if you just friggin’ did the damn thing you wanna do. Imagine that!” -Ava DuVernay

A Journey Entry

This is a safe space. Words can be placed here to express thoughts and feelings that first sit with me, and are then passed along for you to relate, or not. I write in my journal at the start of every new day. I write my peace. It’s all just a journey. And today, I say…

Forever, Incomplete.

February 1, 2020

Dear Self,

We are grateful. Our body, mind, and spirit are in sync. We are living in alignment with our heart. We have all that we desire, lacking nothing. We know that should there come a time for us to want something new, something different, something more, we must do one simple thing – ask.

Once we release our desires into the universe, our journey changes. WE then become programmed to do the work that is necessary to become fulfilled within these new interests. It’s a call and response. An action and reaction. We have the power to live as we truly wish. Our mission is to have purpose and protect our peace.

We feel rich knowing that we have peace of mind. We feel strong, sturdy, and grounded, knowing that we’ve built this from the ground up. Our foundation is made of self-love and patience. Our prayer is to continue to live out loud, live fully, explore the world while we can, and to truly love others so that the love we receive is pure, genuine, and gentle.

What do you do every day, to practice self-awareness?

Treat yourself, write your desires, and follow through with actions – for, they speak louder than any words you could ever write or say.

Dear reader, you are greatly encouraged to write a letter to your future self by visiting futureme.org . I received a letter I wrote last year on this day, and let’s just say – I spoke a lot into existence.

Have a great February!

Love & Light.

Make a Wish

20181111_151812

Photo by Griffin Glaze. Mexico. 2018.

We’re not here long. This physical human machine our souls are trapped inside of will die out one day. The type of death that can’t be recharged. While we’re here, let’s do the best we can to make it worthwhile. Let’s do the best we can to have an energy so strong, that it creates light. To have a light so bright, that we never lose ourselves. Let’s.

What makes you giggle? What makes your heart smile? What gives you that extra boost of energy? Who keeps you honest? Where is your happy place? What do you care most about? Why do you care? Why don’t you care? What do you love about yourself? What do you dislike? Who do you love? Where are you right now? Where are you going? When do you take the necessary breaks? Who are you? Who created you? Do you love them? Do you love yourself? How are you feeling, right now, today, here, in this moment? When is the last time you listened to your heart. When’s the last time you trusted your intuition? When is the last time you listened closely to the silence? Shhh… take a second. Breathe. Were you meditating? Where do you find solace? If you could be anywhere in the world, doing anything in the world…where? What? Why? With whom? What’s the greatest feeling you can remember? It’s nearly 2019, how have you changed since January? Who left your life, who entered? What do you want? How will you get it?

Today is 11:11, make a wish. Love yourself.

 

Yes, You.

Snapchat-1263379056

I am a butterfly, because I said so.

I’ve painted my own colors, and I fly where I wanna. 

No one owes me a thing, and I sure don’t owe anyone else. 

I owe it all to myself. 

Many people quote “Living my best life,” and they should.

Why shouldn’t YOU? 

My prayer is for everyone to find peace.

Within.

Everything will then fall into place. 

Give yourself permission.

Allow your dreams to come true.

Allow your love to be wild.

Allow your life to speak volumes.

Allow yourself release to your inner child. 

Yes, YOU! 

xoxo, DMC

Philosophies of Indian yogi, Sadhguru:

  • Stop thinking so intensely – that causes depression.
  • You’re not mad at somebody, you’ve just gone mad.
  • Nothing is stressful, it is the inability to manage your body, mind and emotions.
  • The problem is irresponsible growth of the human population.
  • It is not a privilege to be depressed so that you’ll get attention from somebody.
  • Life is not outside of you. You are life.
  • Every breath you take, you’re getting closer to your grave, every breath you take, you’re also getting closer to your liberation.
  • Spirituality is empowerment.
  • It would be wonderful if this world was guided by little children, because they are closer to life than anyone else.
  • Joy is a natural phenomenon. Misery is your creation.
  • It pays to be joyful!
  • Don’t be dead serious about your life. It’s just a play.
  • If there is something in your life which means something to you, you should not postpone it for a single day. 
  • Whatever happens, ultimately, life corrects itself.
  • You can either live logically or magically. It’s your choice.
  • You know everything about the world, but you do not know anything about yourself. This is a ridiculous way to live.
  • Do not try to fix whatever comes in your life. Fix yourself in such a way that whatever comes, you will be fine.
  • The more conclusions you have, the less you experience life.
  • Do not try to be the best, just do your best.
  • Yesterday only lives in your mind.
  • Be the light of your life.

YES, YOU!

 

 

 

 

 

Her Words.

IMG_4452

Buenos Aires, Argentina – on what would have been her seventy-ninth birthday. 

My grandmother would always say, “I wish you all the lucks in the world.”

On every card, for birthdays and graduations, she faithfully wished me all the lucks in the world. Her simple words, were not so simple to me. I wondered why she wished more than one luck. Deep down inside, I felt touched by her spirit – and even when it was written in a card, I could hear her voice saying the words so clearly. Sweet and simple, with grace and confidence. She wished it for me, because she knew it was possible to have luck in the world. That pleasant memory of her is etched on my soul.

In some selfish way, I began to believe that she actually wished me the world. That she wished me great purpose in the world. That she wished me to see the world. That she wished me to make a difference in the lives of people in the world. I translated her words to mean that she wished for me to learn as much about the world, and to travel the world, and to share my spirit with the world. I’d like to believe that she wished me to seek out my talents and place them ever so humbly in the world. Perhaps she wanted me to see the world as my school, a place where learning never-ends. What if she meant for me to see what the world has to offer, and confidently go after whatever I desired? She could have easily meant she wished for my safety in the world. Perhaps finding genuine love in the world. Having good health. Financial stability. Peace of mind. I believe she wanted me to do some of the things she wished for herself, but she would never say that. She would just wish me all the lucks in the world. She would have never disclosed to me that she wished she could have been a dressmaker, if I didn’t ask. It wasn’t about her dreams and her sacrifices. It wasn’t about her past decisions. It was a message of hope to her granddaughter, that the world has so much going on, and she simply wanted me to be well in it. I believe she wanted me to live purposefully, not letting too much time go by without seeing my dreams come true. She didn’t place any specific ideas in my mind. Her words were careful. Perhaps, general. I believe they were plentiful. Those words were full of love, hope, and imagination.

My grandmother passed away shortly after her seventieth birthday. I’d like to believe she had many experiences in the world. One may see her message as simple, as something anyone would wish for their loved ones. It’s true. Many grandparents must wish this for their grandchildren. Many parents must wish this for children. The variety of life experiences in this world are inevitable. There’s much good, bad, and ugly. Wishing luck or blessings are prayers for peaceful paths. The luck brings about a light of hope, it brings about a purpose to inspire, it brings about the drive to live before you die.

In the case no one has told you once before, accept this message:

“I wish you all the lucks in the world!” – my grandmother

 We can all use a little luck… 

Due Time

IMG_1989.jpg

Singapore, Singapore. 2018.

When we know our gifts, and our purpose, and aren’t afraid of presenting them to the world, then we also know when it’s our turn to shine. We’re aware of everyone being on a different mission and having varied goals. Knowing this, we understand that we’re not here to run a race, perhaps we are here to run, just not all at the same time.

Sharon bakes really well, and her specialty is dessert. Marian also bakes really well, but she specializes in savory foods. Simply because they both bake well doesn’t mean that Marian should bring baked macaroni and cheese to the dessert party.  The idea of passing the baton, stepping aside, and supporting others during their moment makes complete sense.

We are not in competition, and if we were, we’d at least stick to our lanes or categories. Let’s not exhaust our energy unnecessarily. The fitness trainer should never worry about the dance instructor taking their clients. The author does not have to worry about the illustrator outshining them. The lights on the trees serve a greater purpose when they are turned on during the night. No matter the person, the talent, the gift, it can never compare to that of another – because we’re all so different, and we’re all so necessary – just not all at the same time.

As we understand our roles, our lanes, and our purpose, we understand when it’s our time to shine. We are well aware that the light we possess and express would never threaten that of another. It just doesn’t work that way. “Life is a journey, not a competition.” So please, let’s not be stingy with our gifts, they’re meant to be shared with others.

“I am not competing with anyone but myself. I want to be excellent at whatever I do.”       – Dr. Maya Angelou (remembering you on your birthday, and always).

“I’m not interested in competing with anyone, I hope we all make it.”

“…because she competes with no one, no one can compete with her.”

“Successful people never worry about what others are doing.”
“They’re not your competition if you don’t even compete.”

“When you’re in your own lane, there is no traffic.”

“Comparison kills joy.”

“You don’t compete, where you don’t compare.”

“Supporting another’s success won’t ever dampen yours.”

“Stay in your magic.”

…and for those who are afraid to find their magic or share their magic, this one’s for you:

“Never give up on a dream because of the time it will take to accomplish it, the time will pass anyway.”

“Let your fear of failure be your motivation to succeed.”

“In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.”

When we know our gifts, and our purpose, and aren’t afraid of presenting them to the world, then we also know when it’s our turn to shine.

The Sun

84DFA172-5D87-48FC-A6A0-DE1A78E622C7.jpegMae Ra Moe, Thailand. 2018. 

Today, once again, from a tent on a beach, at 6:42 AM, I watched with amazement, the sun presenting itself to the day, as each time is the first time. It reminds me of the opportunity we have as people to enter the day, brand new, with style and grace. There were hues of light blue, purple, orange, and pink that were sprinkled throughout the sky, almost as if it were a red carpet for the sun’s arrival. When it happened, when I noticed the first sight of the tip of the sun, I became excited yet again, for something I’ve seen multiple times before, and when it came into full view, just like the ending to a classic movie, I wanted to give it a standing ovation. I almost wanted to cry. Just like that, taking in something so simple, as a sunrise, has reminded me yet again of the possibilities in life.

8F106F90-D75A-40C4-8A7F-E3173FE0F875.jpeg

Phuket, Thailand. 2018

It’s the 27th day, and from the sands of Phuket, I sat still until the spirit moved me to write. During that stillness, so much flashed through my mind. I remembered moments of being in love, moments of mourning, moments of celebrating new life, moments of celebrating personal successes, moments of experiencing new things for the first time, moments of landing in countries I’ve always dreamed of visiting, moments of witnessing my very own dreams coming true. Then I was moved to pick up a book and continue reading, when it hit me.

I’m reading an inspiring story written by Bill Strickland, “Make the Impossible Possible.” This is becoming one of my favorite reads after The Alchemist, The Four Agreements and The Book of Awakening.

In the book, Bill Strickland shares his story of building a dream that he didn’t originally plan for himself, but because he’s a man who simply follows his heart and trusts his intuition, has been led to unveil an inspiring reality that has come to positively impact and transform the lives of many people, people who would have never believed in themselves if it weren’t for the opportunities Bill Strickland was able to present to them – had he not listened to his gut and fought to make all that seemed impossible, possible. It’s a story that reminds me of the powers that lie within the combination of harwork, faith, determination, consistency, and a heart to do good.

The chapter I just finished reading was the fuel I needed to keep the flame burning of all of the new dreams I have for myself, and it said to me ever so clearly that I must not scale back any of my hopes and dreams, because they’re all possible and necessary.

I have goals of connecting with more people, of presenting an opportunity for students to learn in a new way, of reaching new levels of creative artistic expression, of immersing myself in new lands and cultures, of learning new languages and carving a path that will lead me to connect my way back to my roots. There’s so much more to this life, without a doubt, and impossible is nothing as long as the sun is out.

Grapes to Wine

 

IMG_9351

Portugal. 2017.

Go outside. Find a wide open space. Imagine there are no people around. Everything in sight is a part of nature. The colors are rich, and beautiful. It’s quiet. Clutter-free. This space you are in, becomes your state of mind.

Listen to your heart, and pay attention to your body. How are you really feeling? Emotionally. How are you really feeling? Physically. What are your thoughts? You’re alone, so it’s okay to be vulnerable with yourself. It’s okay to take out a pen and notebook and write down whatever it is that you need to release. Sometimes, there are feelings that can’t even be expressed or processed in thought, but once the writing flows, surprisingly, words form to help make sense of all that is happening. Sometimes, these feelings are dormant burdens. They’ve been asleep for so long, you forgot about them, but they didn’t forget about you. Figure out what they are, acknowledge them, and drop them off in this space. These are burdens that cannot continue on with you in your life journey. They must evacuate the premises. As these feelings are released into the universe, you are then engulfed by a sense of liberation. Something amazing is about to happen.

Okay, so you’re outside in nature, writing, reflecting, and lightening your load. Now what? Well, what are your desires? You got rid of something, so now what would you like to attain? Write that down. The best part about the things in life that you may want, is that it’s either already lined up for you to have it, or there’s something better waiting. Sometimes, you may not allow yourself to want certain things because you’re too busy looking at all that you already have going on. There’s beauty in that. It’s not that the life you currently have doesn’t matter, it’s changing the perspective and realizing that you, as the sculptor, can shape your peace.

You are in this world, as one tiny person, out of billons. You can live very simply, and yet still make a major contribution to life on earth. You can make an impact. You can do this by tapping into your personal dreams, goals, and desires. You can become inspired by the peace and beauty found in nature, allow it to seep into your soul, and reap what you sow.

You’re outside, in this wide open space, in the middle of nature, surrounded by a clutter-free and quiet beauty. This has become your state of mind. Therefore, this will become your life. It doesn’t have to remain in this phase, but the transition is necessary for you to gain perspective on what in your life will change. This is the space where you become focused on unity, clarity and manifestation.

Taking time in this space is about the break. It’s the matrix. You’re watching your life play on an imaginary screen, in slow motion. The plot is either thickening or twisting. The shift is coming. In this moment, in this space, during this transition period, you have the power to reach in and change directions, or to simply say, “I am okay with this. I approve. I am ready for what’s next.” Taking time, in this space, is about returning to your roots. It’s about remembering where you’ve come from, where you are now, and where you are going.

The way grapes travel through various stages to become wine, discover your life’s main ingredient and create something special, something only YOU can offer. It can be anything! It can be many things!

While you’re outside, in this open space, embracing all the things you need it to be, pour yourself a glass of wine. Think about the grapes, and the journey they took to get to you. Think about the process; the steps they had to go through to end up in your glass. Think about how the wine makes you feel, the impact it has on your life, in that moment. Reflect on the journey of the grapes. Then transition those thoughts, and reflect on your own journey… It’s not necessarily about the grapes, or the wine, it’s not necessarily about where you were and where you are now, it’s simply about the possibilities.

Cheers.