I know that last summer we talked a great deal about positive thinking, positive energy, and positive living. We also talked about words and how they have power, they can either build or destroy depending on their usage. But, as I have found out over this year, these same words of power can have meaning all to themselves and can benefit you in your daily life. I call these affirmations, these are sayings that you tell yourself over and over again. You can post them on your mirror, or somewhere where you will see them often, and everytime you do say them aloud. These are positive tips that will help you, they will also help you maintain and keep your positive mental attitude for the day.
Remember that the more positive you put out in the world the more positive you get back. Just like everything else in life if you live what you say you are going to go far. Trust me when I tell you this. Many self-help teachers and authors will tell you that if you want to be successful you must live and breathe the part, the same is true with keeping a positive mental outlook. If you want to be positive you must live and be positive, there is no other way.
I have read books that tell you if you want to be a vice president of a company you must dress and act the part. This is important, the image that you create for yourself is in effect a construct of creative visualization. If you can imagine yourself in the part, you can manifest it in your life. The same thing is true by you using affirmations. If you tell yourself every morning that you are perfect and love yourself, eventually you will. I have told my friend who has major self-esteem problems that maybe he should get a tatoo around his collarbone that says LOVE THYSELF, but backwards so that each time he looks at himself in the mirror or takes a picture of himself he sees it. The more you see it and repeat it, the more energy you put into it and before you know it you are manifesting it in your life.
As I have told you before, one way that I prepare myself for the day is I get up every morning and I count my blessings one by one, and then I give thanks that I am able to live another day. My same friend that I mentioned above does something very similar except he says a prayer. Basically he thanks God for granting him another day and he says it seven times. I am not sure what the significance of 7 is to him, but I know that it brings him that much closer to God each and every time he says it.
Affirmations are simple little phrases or sayings that you can post on your walls at work, mirror, monitor or other places that your eyes look every day. They can be little things like "Smile You are Loved" or "Love thyself" or "Be Happy" or even "Today is a brand new beginning with no mistakes". Remember the more you say them, the more you begin to believe them and that gives them power.
No one should be able to make your feelings about yourself change. Others shouldn't be able to make you feel any certain way. Have confidence and self assurance that you know what you are doing and trust me it will show in everything you do. People respect and appreciate those that are confident and strong. When you make a decision stick with it. These are things that will help you grow and mature.
When someone else changes your mood or makes you feel inferior or self conscious you have given them way too much power over you and I beg you to take it back from them. Because they aren't doing you any good and adding much more stress to your day and your life. March to your own drum and keep your own goals and desires in the forefront of your mind. It is the only way to actually live.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Showing posts with label positive attitude. Show all posts
Showing posts with label positive attitude. Show all posts
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Sunday, October 7, 2012
Shutting down and closing yourself off should never be an option!
Last night I talked about some of the issues I have been facing. How I have felt alone and dead inside because the one person I want to share my issues with has closed themselves off and has shut down. He is trying to deal with his own health issues on his own. He has shut down and cut himself off from his family, friends and loved ones, he has isolated himself to try and deal with his problems on his own. I have reached out sent text messages, left voice mails, tried calling, even resorted to emails and emailing him via Facebook. His isolation has made me feel alone, lost and has caused me to worry more than he can possibly imagine at this point. It has also kept him from participating in what has been happening with me. I am sure that he has gotten my messages, and knows that I have been in the hospital twice, that I have gone to see my surgeon, and have a doctors appointment tomorrow afternoon. But, what he doesn't know is what I have found out so far, and how it is going to impact our relationship. What he also hasn't come to realize is that by cutting me out and isolating himself from me he is cutting his lifeline, keeping him from using the knowledge and experience I have in the matters he is going through.
See I am a firm believer in talking, communication to me is the key to everything in life. When we talk about our problems and issues with others we gain perspective, and the mountains we have made out of the molehills take on a very different shape. By discussing our problems with others we begin to realize that maybe our issues aren't as big and as scary as they were when we were trying to deal with them on our own. By confiding in others, giving them the trust of our openness we find that we have a support network that we can fall back on, that we are not alone in our fight, and we are now open to suggestions, knowledge and guidance that may help us navigate the issue at hand. I know what I am talking about here. I have 20 years of dealing with illness, I have a great network of family and friends that I can call on to help me tackle the problems that arise. I know how important it is because I also need help from time to time to navigate the pitfall, stumbling blocks and hazards that life throws at us.
I can help my friend with his problems because I have been there. I know what he is going through, the emotions he is feeling and I can protect him and help him navigate and find the best care out there to treat what is happening with him. But, I also realize that his shutting down is his coping mechanism, his defense against a threat that is bigger than himself, and how he is handling and mitigating his fear. But knowing these things doesn't help me feel less helpless and alone in this situation. See we are a couple, a partnership, and he should be able to confide in me, trust me with his fears, concerns and what is happening with him. I can be his rock, his guidance and inspiration in this fight. I want him to know that he isn't alone, that he is the one person and thing that keeps me going in my own battle. I want to repay that by being his!
I know that sometimes it is hard to see the forest because all we can see is the trees before us. I know that we can lose our way and get lost if we aren't watching where we place our feet. But, I also know that we all need someone, we don't always know what to do or how to react to information that is thrust upon us. Talking and communicating with others helps us with that. It also keeps us grounded and focused on ourselves and what we need to do to solve the issue or problem. We don't have to fight any fight alone, we have those around us that are more than willing to share in our pain, adventure and life if we just give them the opportunity. Maybe it is pride, or fear that keeps us from opening up. Maybe it is the mistaken thought that if we don't say what we are facing out loud, if we don't consciously think about it, will make it less real and less threatening. Trust me those are fantasies, what we are experiencing is real and no matter what we wish or hope it isn't going to go away on it's own. We have to face them with courage, hope and conviction that we are going to win and survive. Keep a positive attitude and outlook will go a long way in making the situation bearable and manageable, but we have to get there and gain that perspective. It just doesn't magically appear.
Give voice to your doubts, turn to your friends and family, let them help you and guide you through whatever it is that you are going through, you are going to be happier if you do. You will feel less vulnerable, you won't feel isolated and alone, let them help you carry the burden, because you shouldn't have to deal with the weight of the issue by yourself. Keep yourself open to the ideas and opinions of others, because they may give you an insight or inspiration that you might have otherwise missed. A different treatment plan or way to handle the situation, because we each see things differently and from different perspectives. Try looking at the problem or issue through another persons eyes and you will understand what I am talking about here.
Also if you are in a relationship with someone you cannot expect them to sit idly by and let you deal with the issue on your own. You have to understand that they already feel powerless to help you, they see the pain that you are carrying and they know that they can do nothing to alleviate it and make it better. But what they can do is be there for you, they can be the shoulder that you cry upon, they can lend you their strength, support and wisdom, and they can help you find the right answer. You owe it to them to give them the opportunity. Keep in mind that a relationship is a two-way street, that it is a partnership, you are supposed to be working together to build something, but you are also there to help one another through the difficult times too. Give them the benefit of the doubt, talk to them, let yourself embrace their love, warmth and support. Listen to them, let them help you carry the burden and lessen your load. It will make it easier for you to heal and get better if you aren't weighed down with the stress and weight of the situation all by yourself.
I posted several weeks ago on Facebook a message to my partner, I know he knew it was for him, just as I know that most if not all of his posts are meant specifically for me. Others, may not even know that we are dating or a couple but we know it, and we have a short handed way of talking to each other even when we aren't really talking. It helps us realize that we are in it together. But in my post I reminded him that we are a partnership and that I wasn't a silent partner, but a full sharing member. I was hoping he would get the point that I am here for him and always will be. Even if we weren't dating and didn't have plans to be moving in together soon. I would still be there for him. See when I tell you I am your friend, I am your friend no matter what. I will be there for you and you can count on me. I am not going anywhere. I promise you I am your friend till the very end. If I open my mouth and I say the words I love you, you better know that I mean them, because those aren't words that I say to everyone, and they have a special meaning for me. They are words of binding, and if I love you, that means I am with you, and only you.
I know if you have read my other posts in the blog I mention that the human heart is the only heart I know that has the capacity to love more than one person, it is also the only heart I know that can love someone unconditionally. We have the ability to accept a person, their good parts and when we do that and we are truly in love we never even notice or see the bad parts of them.
If you ever find yourself in the same situation that I find myself in, be sure you let your friend or partner know that you are there for them, give them the space and time they need to come to the realization that you are sincere, you are for real and that you aren't going anywhere. Because often times we let our past experiences color our thoughts and ideas about our present, and we can't do that. Remember no two people are the same, and no two experiences are exactly the same no matter how similar they may actually seem. If someone has left you in the past when you have confided in them or have asked for their help, that doesn't mean that everyone is going to do the same to you. You have to accept people at face value. Keep in mind that actions always speak louder than words. I know from first hand experience that anybody can tell you anything, yet their actions and time will reveal if those words that they have spoke are actually true. I am not saying that at the time they were spoken they weren't true, because they probably were. But, their strength and the strength of their character may be weaker than they thought. See if they follow through and live up to what they have said and promised. Most people will, but those that don't measure up, let them go, because they aren't the ones you want to have trying to support you in a time of crisis.
I also posted yesterday that the scars of the past are always with us. They are visible, but just because they are still there doesn't mean that they aren't healed. By saying this what I mean is that we have gotten past the hurts of our past, and we are reminded of that past by the scars we bear, but just because that scar is there, doesn't mean that ever other person is going to do the same thing to you. You have learned from the mistake, you have healed from it, be open and receptive, the next person isn't going to do the same thing to you, give them the benefit of the doubt and the opportunity to show you that they aren't going to reopen that old wound. As I have said earlier no two people are the same, neither are two situations, so you getting hurt exactly the same way this time through isn't likely at all to happen. We also have to stop looking backwards, because we cannot move forward if we are constantly focused on the past. The baggage of the past needs to also be left in the past, don't keep comparing your current to your past because that would be like comparing apples and oranges, because no two situations are identical.
Please understand that by closing yourself off from your support network of friends and family will seriously limit you from receiving the guidance and wisdom you will need to prevail over your situation. Each person is different and should be afforded the opportunity to prove to you that they are not going to hurt you like the person from your past.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
See I am a firm believer in talking, communication to me is the key to everything in life. When we talk about our problems and issues with others we gain perspective, and the mountains we have made out of the molehills take on a very different shape. By discussing our problems with others we begin to realize that maybe our issues aren't as big and as scary as they were when we were trying to deal with them on our own. By confiding in others, giving them the trust of our openness we find that we have a support network that we can fall back on, that we are not alone in our fight, and we are now open to suggestions, knowledge and guidance that may help us navigate the issue at hand. I know what I am talking about here. I have 20 years of dealing with illness, I have a great network of family and friends that I can call on to help me tackle the problems that arise. I know how important it is because I also need help from time to time to navigate the pitfall, stumbling blocks and hazards that life throws at us.
I can help my friend with his problems because I have been there. I know what he is going through, the emotions he is feeling and I can protect him and help him navigate and find the best care out there to treat what is happening with him. But, I also realize that his shutting down is his coping mechanism, his defense against a threat that is bigger than himself, and how he is handling and mitigating his fear. But knowing these things doesn't help me feel less helpless and alone in this situation. See we are a couple, a partnership, and he should be able to confide in me, trust me with his fears, concerns and what is happening with him. I can be his rock, his guidance and inspiration in this fight. I want him to know that he isn't alone, that he is the one person and thing that keeps me going in my own battle. I want to repay that by being his!
I know that sometimes it is hard to see the forest because all we can see is the trees before us. I know that we can lose our way and get lost if we aren't watching where we place our feet. But, I also know that we all need someone, we don't always know what to do or how to react to information that is thrust upon us. Talking and communicating with others helps us with that. It also keeps us grounded and focused on ourselves and what we need to do to solve the issue or problem. We don't have to fight any fight alone, we have those around us that are more than willing to share in our pain, adventure and life if we just give them the opportunity. Maybe it is pride, or fear that keeps us from opening up. Maybe it is the mistaken thought that if we don't say what we are facing out loud, if we don't consciously think about it, will make it less real and less threatening. Trust me those are fantasies, what we are experiencing is real and no matter what we wish or hope it isn't going to go away on it's own. We have to face them with courage, hope and conviction that we are going to win and survive. Keep a positive attitude and outlook will go a long way in making the situation bearable and manageable, but we have to get there and gain that perspective. It just doesn't magically appear.
Give voice to your doubts, turn to your friends and family, let them help you and guide you through whatever it is that you are going through, you are going to be happier if you do. You will feel less vulnerable, you won't feel isolated and alone, let them help you carry the burden, because you shouldn't have to deal with the weight of the issue by yourself. Keep yourself open to the ideas and opinions of others, because they may give you an insight or inspiration that you might have otherwise missed. A different treatment plan or way to handle the situation, because we each see things differently and from different perspectives. Try looking at the problem or issue through another persons eyes and you will understand what I am talking about here.
Also if you are in a relationship with someone you cannot expect them to sit idly by and let you deal with the issue on your own. You have to understand that they already feel powerless to help you, they see the pain that you are carrying and they know that they can do nothing to alleviate it and make it better. But what they can do is be there for you, they can be the shoulder that you cry upon, they can lend you their strength, support and wisdom, and they can help you find the right answer. You owe it to them to give them the opportunity. Keep in mind that a relationship is a two-way street, that it is a partnership, you are supposed to be working together to build something, but you are also there to help one another through the difficult times too. Give them the benefit of the doubt, talk to them, let yourself embrace their love, warmth and support. Listen to them, let them help you carry the burden and lessen your load. It will make it easier for you to heal and get better if you aren't weighed down with the stress and weight of the situation all by yourself.
I posted several weeks ago on Facebook a message to my partner, I know he knew it was for him, just as I know that most if not all of his posts are meant specifically for me. Others, may not even know that we are dating or a couple but we know it, and we have a short handed way of talking to each other even when we aren't really talking. It helps us realize that we are in it together. But in my post I reminded him that we are a partnership and that I wasn't a silent partner, but a full sharing member. I was hoping he would get the point that I am here for him and always will be. Even if we weren't dating and didn't have plans to be moving in together soon. I would still be there for him. See when I tell you I am your friend, I am your friend no matter what. I will be there for you and you can count on me. I am not going anywhere. I promise you I am your friend till the very end. If I open my mouth and I say the words I love you, you better know that I mean them, because those aren't words that I say to everyone, and they have a special meaning for me. They are words of binding, and if I love you, that means I am with you, and only you.
I know if you have read my other posts in the blog I mention that the human heart is the only heart I know that has the capacity to love more than one person, it is also the only heart I know that can love someone unconditionally. We have the ability to accept a person, their good parts and when we do that and we are truly in love we never even notice or see the bad parts of them.
If you ever find yourself in the same situation that I find myself in, be sure you let your friend or partner know that you are there for them, give them the space and time they need to come to the realization that you are sincere, you are for real and that you aren't going anywhere. Because often times we let our past experiences color our thoughts and ideas about our present, and we can't do that. Remember no two people are the same, and no two experiences are exactly the same no matter how similar they may actually seem. If someone has left you in the past when you have confided in them or have asked for their help, that doesn't mean that everyone is going to do the same to you. You have to accept people at face value. Keep in mind that actions always speak louder than words. I know from first hand experience that anybody can tell you anything, yet their actions and time will reveal if those words that they have spoke are actually true. I am not saying that at the time they were spoken they weren't true, because they probably were. But, their strength and the strength of their character may be weaker than they thought. See if they follow through and live up to what they have said and promised. Most people will, but those that don't measure up, let them go, because they aren't the ones you want to have trying to support you in a time of crisis.
I also posted yesterday that the scars of the past are always with us. They are visible, but just because they are still there doesn't mean that they aren't healed. By saying this what I mean is that we have gotten past the hurts of our past, and we are reminded of that past by the scars we bear, but just because that scar is there, doesn't mean that ever other person is going to do the same thing to you. You have learned from the mistake, you have healed from it, be open and receptive, the next person isn't going to do the same thing to you, give them the benefit of the doubt and the opportunity to show you that they aren't going to reopen that old wound. As I have said earlier no two people are the same, neither are two situations, so you getting hurt exactly the same way this time through isn't likely at all to happen. We also have to stop looking backwards, because we cannot move forward if we are constantly focused on the past. The baggage of the past needs to also be left in the past, don't keep comparing your current to your past because that would be like comparing apples and oranges, because no two situations are identical.
Please understand that by closing yourself off from your support network of friends and family will seriously limit you from receiving the guidance and wisdom you will need to prevail over your situation. Each person is different and should be afforded the opportunity to prove to you that they are not going to hurt you like the person from your past.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Health update...once again
I have been back to the hospital yet once again. This time was pretty major, apparently a cyst formed on my kidney and pelvis. It started out on Wednesday afternoon as a 2 mm cyst and by Friday Morning it was 8 cm in diameter, 40 ml of fluid were drained from it, there was no sign of bacteria or infection. I am seriously wondering what caused this phenomena after 3 days of testing and draining of the cyst, I am still no closer to an answer than I was the day I was admitted to the hospital. Ever since I got back from Atlanta, my kidneys have been giving me a lot of trouble. I spent 3 days in the hospital when I got back to Florida, and I spent a day in the hospital in Atlanta before I left. I knew that I was severely dehydrated and that my kidneys were in jeopardy. This new addition of fluid building up in my body in areas that it isn't supposed to has made me wonder what is really going on with my body.
This is the first time in 20 years that I haven't been able to put a finger on what is happening with my body and knowing what I am supposed to do to fix it. Unfortunately, with this new information comes a whole new series of questions. I have been constantly on top of my bodies health ever since I was diagnosed with cancer 20 years ago. This is the first time that something new has cropped up that I haven't had the answers too. It has also made my mind go into overdrive to come up with a solution. Unfortunately with the information that I have I cannot for the life of me understand what is going on inside of me this time. So as with all things unexplained I leave it to the good Lord to sort out on His own, because in my mind He is the ultimate authority on the body since He created it. It has to be His will that I go through this or it wouldn't be happening to me at all.
I have to keep in mind that even as I walk there are times when my strength has failed to move me forward and it has been His unwavering steps that I glimpse in the sand as I look back over my path. I know it is Him who has carried me through those dark moments. I know it will be His divine wisdom that guides the physicians as the struggle to answer the newest mystery in my bodies physiology. I have to keep in mind that all answers are not always self apparent and have to be searched for and researched. I know that I wouldn't have been brought this far for an answer to be hidden and obscured that there is meaning in each of our lives and it is ours to seek out the answers.
I believe beyond a shadow of doubt that we are provided with all the answers to every question we will ever face when we are born onto the Earth, it is also my belief that if we look deep within ourselves that the answers to each question will be revealed in it's due course. See, I have unwavering faith, that when man was still in the Garden of Eden, and the first sin took place, that the knowledge of the ages was imparted to man, and was passed on through our blood. It is the philosopher's journey to unlock those hidden things within our mind. Most of you know that we only use a fraction of our brain during our lifetime, so why is it so large? It is my belief that in our own ignorance or arrogance which ever may have been the case for Adam and Eve's blatant refusal to obey the only commandment they were given, they ate of the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. For which we have ever been separated from God and the divine.
Now, I know that you were not expecting a Sunday school lesson when you opened up my blog this evening, so I will leave it at this point, but remember that we are each on a journey and that journey is the search for the ultimate truth. Is is not? I hope it is, but it may just be what is the meaning of life or why am I here! These are also good questions and one's that can be answered on the inward journey that I am proposing. See within us is the knowledge of the ages and we need to educate ourselves as we move forward in this life to unlock the secrets of that knowledge, that is the true test that we are faced with in our daily life.
Yet, even as I struggle to grasp the meaning of life and all the other things that are yet obscured by my vision of reality, I seek to find the answers to the my health questions as well. I know the answers are there and that God is waiting for me to reach the level of understanding or enlightenment to reveal these answers to me, and in time I know I will get there. So with all my thoughts and prayers going out, I keep firmly my belief that all things known or will be known will be revealed to us through our journey and our learning. It is my hope that my health will hold out long enough for me to reach the place where I need to be to understand all of this.
So with all of that being said, I will continue to fill you in on what is happening with my health. When I was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday night it was apparent that the fluid build up was not normal from the reaction of the medical staff, however, it was surprising to find that my kidney's which had been such a problem just the week before seemed to be functioning at normal levels and all traces of kidney disease were gone. Now that got me really thinking. See sometimes it is the situation or circumstance that makes us break the mold of our thoughts and think outside of the box so to speak, and what was discovered is that despite the miraculous discovery that the kidneys were once again functioning as they should be there was still something not quite right with the whole situation, and what came to mind was that they had left the stint in place between my kidney's and bladder back in December for 2 months, now the normal length of time that a temporary stint should be in place is 30 days, anything longer the tissue grows back up around the stint and when removed a tear or rip in the organ can take place. So now, we have to search the left kidney for a possible tear or rip that might be minuscule in size which might be allowing fluid to leak into the body unnoticed and be the cause of the cysts that seem to be forming. The fluid is vacuous and not infected by bacteria or contagion which seems to mean that the fluid is sterile as it enters the body cavity. Urine is sterile until it is exposed to air. Could this not mean that the leak might be from the kidney through a rent or tear that was made when the stint was removed?
This is a question I will be following up with in the morning with my doctor to try and get to the bottom of this mystery. I am hoping that it is something as simple as this to my situation and that by now knowing what to look for might make it easier for the doctors to find. Otherwise, I may end up back in the hospital with the same problem all over again.
So tell me what do you think? Might there be something to what I have written here or is it my imagination just grasping at some straws to answer that which I cannot answer?
I really would like to know what your thoughts are on this. Could I be on the right track after all and that all the answers to all our questions are locked right inside of us the entire time?
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
This is the first time in 20 years that I haven't been able to put a finger on what is happening with my body and knowing what I am supposed to do to fix it. Unfortunately, with this new information comes a whole new series of questions. I have been constantly on top of my bodies health ever since I was diagnosed with cancer 20 years ago. This is the first time that something new has cropped up that I haven't had the answers too. It has also made my mind go into overdrive to come up with a solution. Unfortunately with the information that I have I cannot for the life of me understand what is going on inside of me this time. So as with all things unexplained I leave it to the good Lord to sort out on His own, because in my mind He is the ultimate authority on the body since He created it. It has to be His will that I go through this or it wouldn't be happening to me at all.
I have to keep in mind that even as I walk there are times when my strength has failed to move me forward and it has been His unwavering steps that I glimpse in the sand as I look back over my path. I know it is Him who has carried me through those dark moments. I know it will be His divine wisdom that guides the physicians as the struggle to answer the newest mystery in my bodies physiology. I have to keep in mind that all answers are not always self apparent and have to be searched for and researched. I know that I wouldn't have been brought this far for an answer to be hidden and obscured that there is meaning in each of our lives and it is ours to seek out the answers.
I believe beyond a shadow of doubt that we are provided with all the answers to every question we will ever face when we are born onto the Earth, it is also my belief that if we look deep within ourselves that the answers to each question will be revealed in it's due course. See, I have unwavering faith, that when man was still in the Garden of Eden, and the first sin took place, that the knowledge of the ages was imparted to man, and was passed on through our blood. It is the philosopher's journey to unlock those hidden things within our mind. Most of you know that we only use a fraction of our brain during our lifetime, so why is it so large? It is my belief that in our own ignorance or arrogance which ever may have been the case for Adam and Eve's blatant refusal to obey the only commandment they were given, they ate of the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. For which we have ever been separated from God and the divine.
Now, I know that you were not expecting a Sunday school lesson when you opened up my blog this evening, so I will leave it at this point, but remember that we are each on a journey and that journey is the search for the ultimate truth. Is is not? I hope it is, but it may just be what is the meaning of life or why am I here! These are also good questions and one's that can be answered on the inward journey that I am proposing. See within us is the knowledge of the ages and we need to educate ourselves as we move forward in this life to unlock the secrets of that knowledge, that is the true test that we are faced with in our daily life.
Yet, even as I struggle to grasp the meaning of life and all the other things that are yet obscured by my vision of reality, I seek to find the answers to the my health questions as well. I know the answers are there and that God is waiting for me to reach the level of understanding or enlightenment to reveal these answers to me, and in time I know I will get there. So with all my thoughts and prayers going out, I keep firmly my belief that all things known or will be known will be revealed to us through our journey and our learning. It is my hope that my health will hold out long enough for me to reach the place where I need to be to understand all of this.
So with all of that being said, I will continue to fill you in on what is happening with my health. When I was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday night it was apparent that the fluid build up was not normal from the reaction of the medical staff, however, it was surprising to find that my kidney's which had been such a problem just the week before seemed to be functioning at normal levels and all traces of kidney disease were gone. Now that got me really thinking. See sometimes it is the situation or circumstance that makes us break the mold of our thoughts and think outside of the box so to speak, and what was discovered is that despite the miraculous discovery that the kidneys were once again functioning as they should be there was still something not quite right with the whole situation, and what came to mind was that they had left the stint in place between my kidney's and bladder back in December for 2 months, now the normal length of time that a temporary stint should be in place is 30 days, anything longer the tissue grows back up around the stint and when removed a tear or rip in the organ can take place. So now, we have to search the left kidney for a possible tear or rip that might be minuscule in size which might be allowing fluid to leak into the body unnoticed and be the cause of the cysts that seem to be forming. The fluid is vacuous and not infected by bacteria or contagion which seems to mean that the fluid is sterile as it enters the body cavity. Urine is sterile until it is exposed to air. Could this not mean that the leak might be from the kidney through a rent or tear that was made when the stint was removed?
This is a question I will be following up with in the morning with my doctor to try and get to the bottom of this mystery. I am hoping that it is something as simple as this to my situation and that by now knowing what to look for might make it easier for the doctors to find. Otherwise, I may end up back in the hospital with the same problem all over again.
So tell me what do you think? Might there be something to what I have written here or is it my imagination just grasping at some straws to answer that which I cannot answer?
I really would like to know what your thoughts are on this. Could I be on the right track after all and that all the answers to all our questions are locked right inside of us the entire time?
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Stop being so hard on yourself, the bruises aren't pretty!
I am not sure how I want to put this, but lately I have been thinking about how hard we are on ourselves. We judge ourselves to a different standard than we hold other's too. Why is that? Do we think we are better than others? Or do we just like beating ourselves up? Do we let other people slide because we think they are incapable of doing a job better than us? Honestly, I think it is more out of insecurity and frustration that we continue to beat ourselves up. We take it to heart when we don't live up to our own expectations and we rush to judgement on ourselves and consider setbacks as failures. We all do! You know you do, don't you? You are your own worse critic, you don't like anything you do, and you constantly think that you could have done it better if you would have just tried harder, or whatever excuse it is that you tell yourself.
The problem is we are harsh with ourselves and we are awful quick to jump to the conclusion that we have failed at whatever task it is that didn't live up to our expectations. The problem with doing this is your are constantly focusing on the negative, you are painting yourself into thinking you are a failure, you are belittling yourself and undermining your own self-esteem and worth. If you are constantly doing that to yourself, and you second guess every task you undertake, what do you think others around you are going to think? Before long everyone around you starts to see you as you do, and it becomes a cycle of abuse and cruelty. I know that there are some of you out there that think everything must be done perfectly, that if you are off just a smidgen, then your whole project is a ruin and a failure. Let me fill you in on something, do you know that perfectionism is just a form of procrastination? It really is folks, and guess what, you give a task to a perfectionist and it will never be completed, unless you step in and force them to end their work, because to them, it will never be perfect and therefore it cannot be completed.
I know it is easy to look at yourself and wonder why you aren't further ahead in life, and how you can beat yourself up over little things that shouldn't bother you. I can also understand why you feel that everything you do ends up wrong. You have have set yourself up into a pattern of abuse that you need to break out of. It might be something that you have been carrying around for years, it has become so ingrained in your daily life you don't even recognize it anymore. Or someone in your life has criticized everything you have done and told you that you did it wrong, or you could have done it faster or better this way, or they go out of their way to make you feel bad just about everything that you do. If any of this is true for you then you need to keep reading, because it isn't true that you are stupid, or dumb, or an idiot, what it means is that you have done something a different way than that other person, and they don't like it. They want to control you and manipulate you and they found that they can do that by using guilt or criticism to wound you. See, there are those out there that cannot stand to see another person succeed they are so arrogant and set in their ways that they cannot accept that someone could possibly come along and do something any way that is different from their way. But as I told you the other day there is no wrong or right way to handle a problem or situation, it is just a matter of perspective and working out the details and coming up with a workable solution.
People that want to control you or manipulate you prey on your fears and weaknesses, they spite you and laugh at you when they are secretly envious, they want to hold you back and make you feel inferior to them because it gives them a rush and makes you feel like you are a failure. These are the people that you have to cut from your life, they are truly undermining your self-esteem and worth, they aren't doing anything for you and keeping you from realizing your own true potential. How can you honestly feel good about your accomplishments or even have a sense of fulfillment in a completed job if everyone around you is telling you that you are no good and nothing you ever do is right. Don't let yourself be caught up in this trap. Because once you have fallen into it, it becomes so easy to stay there. I can honestly tell you, that you may have already fallen into the trap in your youth or childhood and that is why you berate and belittle yourself now. So if you are following me so far, you can see that there are two ways in which you fall into this pattern of behavior, the first is that you are always so hard on yourself that everyone around you begins to judge and see you as you do. Or you have people that have torn apart your self-esteem and question how you do everything. In both cases the end result is the same, you find yourself always feeling that your best is never good enough and that everything you do fall short of your expectations.
But going back to my original question why are we so hard on ourselves? The reason is because we have no confidence in the decisions we make or the actions we do. So my advice to you is to start to do things for yourself, prove to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind too. That you don't need anyone else's approval or appreciation. A line from one of my favorite movies is " I have taught myself how to cook, clean, sew, fix a pipe, and pat myself on the back, just so I don't have to ask you to do it". This should be your motto too. I want you to remember you have nothing to prove to anyone but yourself. You are your own person, and let's face it you came into the world naked and alone, and we all leave exactly the same way, naked and alone. So to look for someone else's approval or opinion of what we do is really not worth it at all.
I want you to take pride in all that you do, even if it isn't perfect. You know why because nothing ever is perfect, if it was we would have nothing to worry about or stress over. I also want you to look closely in the mirror and tell yourself you have come this far all on your own, you can succeed because you don't need anyone. When you try to please everyone at the same time you end up making some of them happy, but not all, the only person you are guaranteed to make happy all the time is yourself, but that is if you do for yourself and don't care what anyone else around you thinks. I have told you before when you let someone else dictate how you feel or makes you feel guilty in some way then you have given them way too much power over you, and you need to take that power back. Further, when you feel like berating yourself or getting mad because something didn't go exactly as planned, you need to really look at it and give yourself credit for accomplishing the task at all.
You must respect and love yourself and accept that you are not perfect, none of us are, so why do you expect everything you do to be perfect? Now I ask you to cut yourself some slack just like you would someone else, because you are just like them. Put forth your best effort and be content with the result, build up your confidence and self-esteem and you will see that life starts getting a bit easier for you and your stress level will drop lower. You will start to feel good about yourself and the negative that you have been holding will be released and as that happens it will be replaced with the positive. Once the positive starts flowing in your life and mind the more will be attracted too it. Have faith in your abilities and know that you have given your best. Let go of the small things and cling to what you have done and you will be so much happier in your life.
Stop beating yourself up, stop belittling yourself and give yourself the respect and praise that you deserve, and I promise you those around you will start to do the same, and if they don't let them go and move on, because you and only you have your best interest at heart.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
But going back to my original question why are we so hard on ourselves? The reason is because we have no confidence in the decisions we make or the actions we do. So my advice to you is to start to do things for yourself, prove to yourself that you can do anything you set your mind too. That you don't need anyone else's approval or appreciation. A line from one of my favorite movies is " I have taught myself how to cook, clean, sew, fix a pipe, and pat myself on the back, just so I don't have to ask you to do it". This should be your motto too. I want you to remember you have nothing to prove to anyone but yourself. You are your own person, and let's face it you came into the world naked and alone, and we all leave exactly the same way, naked and alone. So to look for someone else's approval or opinion of what we do is really not worth it at all.
I want you to take pride in all that you do, even if it isn't perfect. You know why because nothing ever is perfect, if it was we would have nothing to worry about or stress over. I also want you to look closely in the mirror and tell yourself you have come this far all on your own, you can succeed because you don't need anyone. When you try to please everyone at the same time you end up making some of them happy, but not all, the only person you are guaranteed to make happy all the time is yourself, but that is if you do for yourself and don't care what anyone else around you thinks. I have told you before when you let someone else dictate how you feel or makes you feel guilty in some way then you have given them way too much power over you, and you need to take that power back. Further, when you feel like berating yourself or getting mad because something didn't go exactly as planned, you need to really look at it and give yourself credit for accomplishing the task at all.
You must respect and love yourself and accept that you are not perfect, none of us are, so why do you expect everything you do to be perfect? Now I ask you to cut yourself some slack just like you would someone else, because you are just like them. Put forth your best effort and be content with the result, build up your confidence and self-esteem and you will see that life starts getting a bit easier for you and your stress level will drop lower. You will start to feel good about yourself and the negative that you have been holding will be released and as that happens it will be replaced with the positive. Once the positive starts flowing in your life and mind the more will be attracted too it. Have faith in your abilities and know that you have given your best. Let go of the small things and cling to what you have done and you will be so much happier in your life.
Stop beating yourself up, stop belittling yourself and give yourself the respect and praise that you deserve, and I promise you those around you will start to do the same, and if they don't let them go and move on, because you and only you have your best interest at heart.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Thursday, August 2, 2012
Money and Happiness don't necessarily equate.
You know the happiest times in my life were the times I spent with my dad's mom, she didn't have two dimes to rub together her entire life, but there was love, warmth, acceptance and happiness to be found under her roof. My dad's father died when he was just 8 years old, and he being the middle child of a large family, he felt the death probably more seriously than all of his other siblings. Because the 4 older ones were already on their own, and the 4 younger ones didn't understand what was happening. But, my grandmother, did her best with what she had, and always smiled even when times had to be extremely tough for her. Undoubtedly she was the glue that held our family together, she made sure that she spent time with all the grandchildren and great grandchildren while she was alive. I remember that the family always spent time at her house. Her youngest son and his 3 children lived with her, as well as my cousin Eric, whose mother, committed suicide when he was just 18 months old.
I was seven when we moved away, and even though we moved from Pennsylvania to Texas, my parents did go home to visit often. When I was in the sixth grade, my parents went on a year long vacation and my younger brother and I were sent to live with my mother's mom who lived fairly close by my other grandmother, and I would spend every weekend that I could with my dad's mom. She was born in 1895 and had lot's of stories to tell about how things had changed during her life. My dad's mother was the first to realize I was different and told me long ago that I was special and that I had a gift of joy and love to share with the world, that I should not let my parents or anyone deter me from sharing my gifts.
I joined the Navy right out of high school, and after boot camp and A school, I was transferred to the U.S.S. Wisconsin (BB-64) the last of the Great Battleships. We spent a great deal of time in the shipyards getting her ready for recommissioning. Some of the time we were in Pascagoula, MS and the other part of the time we were in the Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia. It was then that I spent every weekend visiting my grandparents, splitting the time between both of them, and my mother's sister at the same time. It was during these visits that I began to notice how different one side of my family was compared to the other side. See, my parents fought all the time, were physically and mentally abusive compared to what parents are today. My parents had moved away to follow their dreams, and in a sense made it. Back then my father was making good money about 50 to 60k a year, and my mother's family had always had money.
Now, to understand the contrast between the two sides of my family you have to understand that there was love, a sense of family and togetherness on my father's side that wasn't found on my mother's side. My dad's mom pulled the family together, kept them together, and spent time with her children and grandchildren. Even though she lived and supported a bigger family of 6 or more on her widows pension, she was always surrounded by family and love. My mom's side of the family there were never any real close ties or bonds, my mother and her sister were close, but there was 17 years difference between my mother and her brother, where there were only 2 years difference between her and her sister. My mom's parents bickered and often fought, yet there was a gulf separating them. It didn't matter how successful my parents were or my aunt was there just didn't seem to be the same kind of love and warmth that was shown on my dad's side of the family.
Now, I do believe that my mom's parents love each other and their family, it was just shown differently, my mother came from a much different place than my father did. There wasn't any want or real need on my mother's side of the family, my mom's mother never had to work, and had every comfort of life. She did struggle with being a mother and a grandmother, and I believe that it came from being married at such a young age. My grandfather served in the Navy during World War II and built upon his career when he got out. Made lots of money and kept the family well insulated from the world around him. He was a remarkable man, full of energy and continued to work until his death at 80 years of age. He never slowed down, and was frugal with his money. When he passed away he left a great deal behind. Which caused a lot of strife between my mother and her brother who were the only ones left in my mother's family. My grandmother had passed away in the late 80's and my aunt had died in a car accident 2 years before my grandmother.
Of course there is more to the story which helped me to come to a better understanding of life and the correlation between happiness and money. To look into this a bit further, I would like to talk to you about my own family life, and how it comparatively contrasted my aunt's life. See my mother and father, had made their money by working hard, my mother going to medical school and studying to be a nurse and then other things, my father worked his way up in the electronics field. There marriage was never happy, there were constant fights and struggles, and they ended up marrying and divorcing each other 3 separate times. Neither one could see that this was unhealthy for them, and damaging to both of them. My aunt's life on the other hand, she had worked herself to a position high up in the insurance industry, she actually put her career before anything else, and got married later in life. She was an executive Vice President of a large insurance firm when she met her husband who was in the toy industry. Both of them had money when they met and married, yet over time their relationship was fraught with problems just like my parents. Now keep in mind that I had spent a great deal of time with my family the 2 years I was stationed in Philadelphia, and I got to know my aunt and uncle very well, as well as spent time with both grandmothers and my grandfather. My aunt and uncle's way of dealing with issues was to pour money into the problem to try and make it go away. Maybe they did this hoping that by some chance the issue would just take care of itself while they focused on other things. Unfortunately, that never happened, I know that my aunt had hoped that she would be able to reconcile the differences between herself and her husband, but never got the chance because she was killed by a drunk driver. My mother's parents never seemed to talk about anything, when my grandmother complained, my grandfather, went to work and brought in more money and also through money at the situation.
In the end all I can say is this, my parents couldn't make it work, by throwing dollars over fist at the issues that faced them, my aunt and uncle nor my grandmother or father ever did it that way either. My parents today are not together, and have moved on with their lives apart. An appropriate solution and they both seem so much happier. Everybody else is dead and gone now on my mother's side, except for her and her brother, and they don't talk at all because of the money that was left by my grandfather. This caused a rift between the two of them that even 15 years later has never been repaired. My grandfather had decided in his will that my uncle had inherited all he was going to get while my grandfather was alive and left everything to my mother, which my uncle thought was unfair. I won't go into the details, but it was an ugly battle and my mother came out the winner in the end.
But the point I am trying to make by telling you all of this, is that money doesn't always make a family or even a person happier, it does make it easier to life and life comfortably, but it doesn't essentially mean that they have a perfect life, that there aren't problems, and certainly doesn't mean they are happy. Yet, in contrast there seems to be a bond on my father's side of the family where struggling and need brought the family closer, there was happiness and laughter, acceptance and companionship to be found. As I told you my dad's mother struggled to take care for her family on a widow's pension, that was meager by any sense of the word. Constantly fraught with bills, and housing situations, they somehow made it through, and through it all there was love and a unity that cannot be explained. I envy that side of the family really because no matter what the situation they faced it together, and overcame the obstacles and kept holding on together.
My dad's mother never swore, and as far back as I can remember looked old, but she had a fierceness about her and a driving force that made her the perfect matriarch. She protected us all and stood up to anyone that she thought was a threat to her or the family. One of the kids down the street that was friends with my cousin Eric, got in some sort of trouble and my grandmother chased him away, for whatever reason, and his father came down and threatened her. I was there! He had an axe handle in his hands and kept telling her that if she ever chased his son away with a broom again he would be back. Her words to him were firm and she held out her bony arm and said here, you think your man enough, break it! You know what, he looked at her with amazement in his eyes, and turned speechless and left. That is how strong she was, undeterred and not afraid of anything.
When I would come over as a child she would stand up for me. She knew how my parents were and she would hug me and kiss me and tell me that everything would be alright, and I knew without a doubt that she loved me and if by chance I got into some kind of trouble and my Uncle Jim was angry, Jim her youngest that lived with her till she died, she would tell him I got enough abuse and beatings at home and would keep him from punishing me. I think about her often, and I wonder how she did it. How she kept the family together, showed love to everyone, never let anyone know the financial stress and pressure she had to have felt. How every year she always sent $5.00 for every birthday, knowing that she couldn't spare it. How much love must she have had to weather all those storms of life, being on her own for so long and raising her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In my own life I have never seen so much love and dedication. No matter how much money I have made in my life have I ever been able to experience that sort of happiness and love again.
Up until late 2008 I was making well over 100k a year, had 2 homes, at least 2 cars, 2 dogs, a cat and a solid relationship. But like my parents before me, my relationship was full of fights and arguments, most stemming from bills and money. It couldn't last, there wasn't the kind of peace and love in it like there was in my grandmother's world. So, as I look back and ponder the question does money equal happiness? I would have to answer that it does not. That the issues remain the same whether you have money or not, that the secret to all of this is contentment, happiness and joy. I now understand that if you aren't content with what you have at every moment of your life and give joy and thanks for what you have. There is no possible way that you can ever be happy. It takes an deep understanding to see the achievements you have made and to be thankful for them. To appreciate the people that are with you and help you to achieve them. I want you to be blessed. I want you to be able to feel the love and joy in every moment of your life. I want you to cherish the things that you have and be thankful for what you have achieved. Above all else I want you to love yourself and your family. Money does make the world go round, but it doesn't buy you happiness or peace of mind. Only you can do that and it comes from within yourself. It is not something you can chase down, achieve, or even buy. So take a moment and be thankful for what you have and who you are with. Love and cherish them, hug them and tell them daily how much you care for them. Life is short and before you know it, it might be too late and they are gone before you have a chance to tell them how much you love them.
I miss all my grandparents, I understand them better now, and didn't when I was younger. If I knew what I know now, I would have loved better, cherished more, and told them how much they inspired me. But they are gone now, and it took me so long to realize what was right in front of my face the entire time.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
I was seven when we moved away, and even though we moved from Pennsylvania to Texas, my parents did go home to visit often. When I was in the sixth grade, my parents went on a year long vacation and my younger brother and I were sent to live with my mother's mom who lived fairly close by my other grandmother, and I would spend every weekend that I could with my dad's mom. She was born in 1895 and had lot's of stories to tell about how things had changed during her life. My dad's mother was the first to realize I was different and told me long ago that I was special and that I had a gift of joy and love to share with the world, that I should not let my parents or anyone deter me from sharing my gifts.
I joined the Navy right out of high school, and after boot camp and A school, I was transferred to the U.S.S. Wisconsin (BB-64) the last of the Great Battleships. We spent a great deal of time in the shipyards getting her ready for recommissioning. Some of the time we were in Pascagoula, MS and the other part of the time we were in the Naval Shipyard in Philadelphia. It was then that I spent every weekend visiting my grandparents, splitting the time between both of them, and my mother's sister at the same time. It was during these visits that I began to notice how different one side of my family was compared to the other side. See, my parents fought all the time, were physically and mentally abusive compared to what parents are today. My parents had moved away to follow their dreams, and in a sense made it. Back then my father was making good money about 50 to 60k a year, and my mother's family had always had money.
Now, to understand the contrast between the two sides of my family you have to understand that there was love, a sense of family and togetherness on my father's side that wasn't found on my mother's side. My dad's mom pulled the family together, kept them together, and spent time with her children and grandchildren. Even though she lived and supported a bigger family of 6 or more on her widows pension, she was always surrounded by family and love. My mom's side of the family there were never any real close ties or bonds, my mother and her sister were close, but there was 17 years difference between my mother and her brother, where there were only 2 years difference between her and her sister. My mom's parents bickered and often fought, yet there was a gulf separating them. It didn't matter how successful my parents were or my aunt was there just didn't seem to be the same kind of love and warmth that was shown on my dad's side of the family.
Now, I do believe that my mom's parents love each other and their family, it was just shown differently, my mother came from a much different place than my father did. There wasn't any want or real need on my mother's side of the family, my mom's mother never had to work, and had every comfort of life. She did struggle with being a mother and a grandmother, and I believe that it came from being married at such a young age. My grandfather served in the Navy during World War II and built upon his career when he got out. Made lots of money and kept the family well insulated from the world around him. He was a remarkable man, full of energy and continued to work until his death at 80 years of age. He never slowed down, and was frugal with his money. When he passed away he left a great deal behind. Which caused a lot of strife between my mother and her brother who were the only ones left in my mother's family. My grandmother had passed away in the late 80's and my aunt had died in a car accident 2 years before my grandmother.
Of course there is more to the story which helped me to come to a better understanding of life and the correlation between happiness and money. To look into this a bit further, I would like to talk to you about my own family life, and how it comparatively contrasted my aunt's life. See my mother and father, had made their money by working hard, my mother going to medical school and studying to be a nurse and then other things, my father worked his way up in the electronics field. There marriage was never happy, there were constant fights and struggles, and they ended up marrying and divorcing each other 3 separate times. Neither one could see that this was unhealthy for them, and damaging to both of them. My aunt's life on the other hand, she had worked herself to a position high up in the insurance industry, she actually put her career before anything else, and got married later in life. She was an executive Vice President of a large insurance firm when she met her husband who was in the toy industry. Both of them had money when they met and married, yet over time their relationship was fraught with problems just like my parents. Now keep in mind that I had spent a great deal of time with my family the 2 years I was stationed in Philadelphia, and I got to know my aunt and uncle very well, as well as spent time with both grandmothers and my grandfather. My aunt and uncle's way of dealing with issues was to pour money into the problem to try and make it go away. Maybe they did this hoping that by some chance the issue would just take care of itself while they focused on other things. Unfortunately, that never happened, I know that my aunt had hoped that she would be able to reconcile the differences between herself and her husband, but never got the chance because she was killed by a drunk driver. My mother's parents never seemed to talk about anything, when my grandmother complained, my grandfather, went to work and brought in more money and also through money at the situation.
In the end all I can say is this, my parents couldn't make it work, by throwing dollars over fist at the issues that faced them, my aunt and uncle nor my grandmother or father ever did it that way either. My parents today are not together, and have moved on with their lives apart. An appropriate solution and they both seem so much happier. Everybody else is dead and gone now on my mother's side, except for her and her brother, and they don't talk at all because of the money that was left by my grandfather. This caused a rift between the two of them that even 15 years later has never been repaired. My grandfather had decided in his will that my uncle had inherited all he was going to get while my grandfather was alive and left everything to my mother, which my uncle thought was unfair. I won't go into the details, but it was an ugly battle and my mother came out the winner in the end.
But the point I am trying to make by telling you all of this, is that money doesn't always make a family or even a person happier, it does make it easier to life and life comfortably, but it doesn't essentially mean that they have a perfect life, that there aren't problems, and certainly doesn't mean they are happy. Yet, in contrast there seems to be a bond on my father's side of the family where struggling and need brought the family closer, there was happiness and laughter, acceptance and companionship to be found. As I told you my dad's mother struggled to take care for her family on a widow's pension, that was meager by any sense of the word. Constantly fraught with bills, and housing situations, they somehow made it through, and through it all there was love and a unity that cannot be explained. I envy that side of the family really because no matter what the situation they faced it together, and overcame the obstacles and kept holding on together.
My dad's mother never swore, and as far back as I can remember looked old, but she had a fierceness about her and a driving force that made her the perfect matriarch. She protected us all and stood up to anyone that she thought was a threat to her or the family. One of the kids down the street that was friends with my cousin Eric, got in some sort of trouble and my grandmother chased him away, for whatever reason, and his father came down and threatened her. I was there! He had an axe handle in his hands and kept telling her that if she ever chased his son away with a broom again he would be back. Her words to him were firm and she held out her bony arm and said here, you think your man enough, break it! You know what, he looked at her with amazement in his eyes, and turned speechless and left. That is how strong she was, undeterred and not afraid of anything.
When I would come over as a child she would stand up for me. She knew how my parents were and she would hug me and kiss me and tell me that everything would be alright, and I knew without a doubt that she loved me and if by chance I got into some kind of trouble and my Uncle Jim was angry, Jim her youngest that lived with her till she died, she would tell him I got enough abuse and beatings at home and would keep him from punishing me. I think about her often, and I wonder how she did it. How she kept the family together, showed love to everyone, never let anyone know the financial stress and pressure she had to have felt. How every year she always sent $5.00 for every birthday, knowing that she couldn't spare it. How much love must she have had to weather all those storms of life, being on her own for so long and raising her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In my own life I have never seen so much love and dedication. No matter how much money I have made in my life have I ever been able to experience that sort of happiness and love again.
Up until late 2008 I was making well over 100k a year, had 2 homes, at least 2 cars, 2 dogs, a cat and a solid relationship. But like my parents before me, my relationship was full of fights and arguments, most stemming from bills and money. It couldn't last, there wasn't the kind of peace and love in it like there was in my grandmother's world. So, as I look back and ponder the question does money equal happiness? I would have to answer that it does not. That the issues remain the same whether you have money or not, that the secret to all of this is contentment, happiness and joy. I now understand that if you aren't content with what you have at every moment of your life and give joy and thanks for what you have. There is no possible way that you can ever be happy. It takes an deep understanding to see the achievements you have made and to be thankful for them. To appreciate the people that are with you and help you to achieve them. I want you to be blessed. I want you to be able to feel the love and joy in every moment of your life. I want you to cherish the things that you have and be thankful for what you have achieved. Above all else I want you to love yourself and your family. Money does make the world go round, but it doesn't buy you happiness or peace of mind. Only you can do that and it comes from within yourself. It is not something you can chase down, achieve, or even buy. So take a moment and be thankful for what you have and who you are with. Love and cherish them, hug them and tell them daily how much you care for them. Life is short and before you know it, it might be too late and they are gone before you have a chance to tell them how much you love them.
I miss all my grandparents, I understand them better now, and didn't when I was younger. If I knew what I know now, I would have loved better, cherished more, and told them how much they inspired me. But they are gone now, and it took me so long to realize what was right in front of my face the entire time.
As always my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Monday, May 14, 2012
What is Mediation, and how can you benefit from it?
First, let me take a minute to say Thank You for coming this far with me on this little journey toward enlightenment and self-awareness. This is the last blog entry in this current series. There will be other to come in the future I am sure. So take the time to join my blog and follow the entries as they unfold. I am attempting to build my audience and would love to have you be a part of my community.
In this entry we are going to talk about meditation and it's possible benefits that you can get out of utilizing meditation in your daily life. So, let's start this off right by first telling you that Mediation is derived from the word meditate. According to Webster's Pocket Dictionary and Thesaurus defines meditate as: "to be in continuous contemplative thought; to think about doing some thing." There are many schools of thought on meditation; some believe that meditation opens the mind to a higher form of consciousness, others claim it is just the stilling of ones mind to allow exploration of the subconscious, still others say that it is the key to ultimate knowledge and enlightenment, there are so many different opinions that it would be impossible to list them all in this blog.
It is my own opinion that maybe every single one of them are right in some way shape or fashion. No matter what your religious beliefs are or what school of thought you identify with, it will not change what meditation is and how it can help you. Personally I like to think of it as prayer and a form of inner evaluation, a form of self-reflection and a tool to help us divorce ourselves from the physical world and glimpse and sometimes enter the spiritual realm. I have studied many of the worlds religions, and have practiced some of them from time to time. Each religion teaches and embrace mediation. In Christianity it is in the form of prayer, in Hinduism it is in the form of lighting candles and incense and assuming the lotus position, and so on and so forth. Each time I have tried to learn the religious aspects of meditation I found it confusing , hard to accomplish and at times elusive. The reason why this happened is because the simple concept of self-realization and inner focus was incorporated into the religious culture and dogma and became wrapped up and cloaked in religious tradition.
The concept of meditation is very simple. It is the stilling of ones mind and allowing the conscious thought to relax control over the body and surrenders control to the subconscious, it is almost like the rational mind (conscious) falls into a light slumber where you can still think and remember what is happening. Once you have stilled your mind your body relaxes, your respiration and breathing slows as well as your heartbeat. As you enter this state the subconscious is able to focus your mind on issues or thought abstracts that your waking or rational mind has not been able to work out or deal with. Thus allowing you to have deeper thoughts, explore the inner recesses of your mind. Further, when you reflect inward and review your life, you can see and understand things that have been bothering you and you had no idea why. As you think these deeper thought you are opened up to a greater understanding and spiritual awareness and awakening is able to enter into your body. Dreams they say is how the subconscious mind works out problems and issues that your conscious mind is either unaware of or are too complex for total understanding. It is through mediation that we are able to view these issues and allow the subconscious to work on the issues without the constraint of the rational mind holding you back.
As you meditate and your mind calms, you will be able to focus your will reduce your stress, contemplate and understand complex abstracts. As your mind stills and your body relaxes your subconscious takes control, now remember that the body's autonomic nervous system is control by the subconscious mind. So when I talk about how you can benefit from mediation, you receive improved and efficient respiration, breathing is normalized, stress is reduced and blood pressure drops, basically your body's natural health is improved and becomes more efficient. Meditation is definitely a tool you will want to use on your journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. Another benefit of letting the rational mind relax your subconscious becomes open and receptive to abstract thoughts and spiritual energy. You are able to glimpse and possibly at times enter into the spiritual realm and gain better insight into yourself and those around you.
I find myself mediating at various different times and because it has become second nature too me I seem to slip in and out of it with out sometimes even realizing that I am doing it. I also have a dedicated time when I meditate, I like to meditate when I am grounding and centering, I find that it helps me align my bodies energy field and focus my will to a singularity of purpose. Feel free to mediate whenever you want and as often as you would like. It will become second nature to you as well and you will be amazed at some of the thought you will begin to think and understand. I also like to mediate when I write, for some examples of this look at my blog entries on vision 20/20 and happiness, and time..I think you will begin to see what I mean by abstract thoughts can be analyzed and your how your knowledge and understanding of them improves.
Take some time just like I described in the last entry on grounding where you can be alone and uninterrupted for a period of time, close your eyes, relax your mind and let your body relax as well. Just let your mind go and follow where it leads, look into your self, and be honest with yourself and you will see what I mean about becoming open and receptive. That is all there is too mediation. Pretty simple right! Keep in mind that using meditation with ground will help keep your body in balance and strengthen your inner focus and sharpens you will to a point of singular purpose. Your body will benefit from renewed health, vitality and become more efficient in handling negative energy and help you to live in a positive state of being.
This series has been about that allowing us to have to tools needed to reflect inward, begin a journey of self-awareness and self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. It was also about using our unconscious(subconscious) mind to view and pick up on abstract thoughts and take those inner issues that our rational mind cannot handle and working to resolve them. It allows us to be open and receptive to change and allows us to understand ourselves and those around us.
Learn from mediation, use it and see how great you will feel. Again you have nothing to loose by trying it and you have so much to gain from it. It is a win-win situation all the way around. As always I look forward to hearing from you and I appreciate your feedback and comments. Tell me what you think and how you feel on this or any other subject I have written about. You can contact me directly through the blog, or write to me on facebook at www.facebook.com/bryan.zepp2 or via email at bryanzepp@gmail.com.
All my hopes and dreams are with you
Uncle B
In this entry we are going to talk about meditation and it's possible benefits that you can get out of utilizing meditation in your daily life. So, let's start this off right by first telling you that Mediation is derived from the word meditate. According to Webster's Pocket Dictionary and Thesaurus defines meditate as: "to be in continuous contemplative thought; to think about doing some thing." There are many schools of thought on meditation; some believe that meditation opens the mind to a higher form of consciousness, others claim it is just the stilling of ones mind to allow exploration of the subconscious, still others say that it is the key to ultimate knowledge and enlightenment, there are so many different opinions that it would be impossible to list them all in this blog.
It is my own opinion that maybe every single one of them are right in some way shape or fashion. No matter what your religious beliefs are or what school of thought you identify with, it will not change what meditation is and how it can help you. Personally I like to think of it as prayer and a form of inner evaluation, a form of self-reflection and a tool to help us divorce ourselves from the physical world and glimpse and sometimes enter the spiritual realm. I have studied many of the worlds religions, and have practiced some of them from time to time. Each religion teaches and embrace mediation. In Christianity it is in the form of prayer, in Hinduism it is in the form of lighting candles and incense and assuming the lotus position, and so on and so forth. Each time I have tried to learn the religious aspects of meditation I found it confusing , hard to accomplish and at times elusive. The reason why this happened is because the simple concept of self-realization and inner focus was incorporated into the religious culture and dogma and became wrapped up and cloaked in religious tradition.
The concept of meditation is very simple. It is the stilling of ones mind and allowing the conscious thought to relax control over the body and surrenders control to the subconscious, it is almost like the rational mind (conscious) falls into a light slumber where you can still think and remember what is happening. Once you have stilled your mind your body relaxes, your respiration and breathing slows as well as your heartbeat. As you enter this state the subconscious is able to focus your mind on issues or thought abstracts that your waking or rational mind has not been able to work out or deal with. Thus allowing you to have deeper thoughts, explore the inner recesses of your mind. Further, when you reflect inward and review your life, you can see and understand things that have been bothering you and you had no idea why. As you think these deeper thought you are opened up to a greater understanding and spiritual awareness and awakening is able to enter into your body. Dreams they say is how the subconscious mind works out problems and issues that your conscious mind is either unaware of or are too complex for total understanding. It is through mediation that we are able to view these issues and allow the subconscious to work on the issues without the constraint of the rational mind holding you back.
As you meditate and your mind calms, you will be able to focus your will reduce your stress, contemplate and understand complex abstracts. As your mind stills and your body relaxes your subconscious takes control, now remember that the body's autonomic nervous system is control by the subconscious mind. So when I talk about how you can benefit from mediation, you receive improved and efficient respiration, breathing is normalized, stress is reduced and blood pressure drops, basically your body's natural health is improved and becomes more efficient. Meditation is definitely a tool you will want to use on your journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. Another benefit of letting the rational mind relax your subconscious becomes open and receptive to abstract thoughts and spiritual energy. You are able to glimpse and possibly at times enter into the spiritual realm and gain better insight into yourself and those around you.
I find myself mediating at various different times and because it has become second nature too me I seem to slip in and out of it with out sometimes even realizing that I am doing it. I also have a dedicated time when I meditate, I like to meditate when I am grounding and centering, I find that it helps me align my bodies energy field and focus my will to a singularity of purpose. Feel free to mediate whenever you want and as often as you would like. It will become second nature to you as well and you will be amazed at some of the thought you will begin to think and understand. I also like to mediate when I write, for some examples of this look at my blog entries on vision 20/20 and happiness, and time..I think you will begin to see what I mean by abstract thoughts can be analyzed and your how your knowledge and understanding of them improves.
Take some time just like I described in the last entry on grounding where you can be alone and uninterrupted for a period of time, close your eyes, relax your mind and let your body relax as well. Just let your mind go and follow where it leads, look into your self, and be honest with yourself and you will see what I mean about becoming open and receptive. That is all there is too mediation. Pretty simple right! Keep in mind that using meditation with ground will help keep your body in balance and strengthen your inner focus and sharpens you will to a point of singular purpose. Your body will benefit from renewed health, vitality and become more efficient in handling negative energy and help you to live in a positive state of being.
This series has been about that allowing us to have to tools needed to reflect inward, begin a journey of self-awareness and self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment. It was also about using our unconscious(subconscious) mind to view and pick up on abstract thoughts and take those inner issues that our rational mind cannot handle and working to resolve them. It allows us to be open and receptive to change and allows us to understand ourselves and those around us.
Learn from mediation, use it and see how great you will feel. Again you have nothing to loose by trying it and you have so much to gain from it. It is a win-win situation all the way around. As always I look forward to hearing from you and I appreciate your feedback and comments. Tell me what you think and how you feel on this or any other subject I have written about. You can contact me directly through the blog, or write to me on facebook at www.facebook.com/bryan.zepp2 or via email at bryanzepp@gmail.com.
All my hopes and dreams are with you
Uncle B
Saturday, May 12, 2012
What is Grounding and how can it help you?
This is the second entry on embarking on the path toward spiritual enlightenment and personal growth, with the aim to helping you fulfill your goals, dreams and desires. The first entry was about Creative Visualization and if you haven't had a chance to read it, not to worry, you can and will still benefit from reading this one. This entry is on Grounding and how it can benefit you in your daily life.
Even if you do not embrace spiritualism or visualization, grounding will still benefit and enrich every aspect of your daily life. Let's begin! First, you might ask yourself, "what does he mean when he says grounding? Does that have something to do with the ground?" Simply, yes it does! Grounding is the act of putting something in or applying it to the ground. Now, according to Websters Pocket Dictionary ground is defined as: "the surface of the earth; soil, sand, and other natural materials at or near the earth's surface; the connecting of electric current to the earth through a conductor." In some ways we are going to deal with both parts of the mentioned definition. In Spiritual and metaphysical terms when we speak of grounding,we are speaking of grounding out the negative energy, stress, pain or other harmful emotions from our bodies and mind and sending it into the ground or earth.
In a limited way our body does this automatically when we rest. However, have you ever had a really bad day where everything went wrong and nothing you tried to do was accomplished ever went right, you were so stressed out that you wanted to cry or scream; your head felt like it was going to explode and the least little thing caused you to snap and lash out at everyone around you? Of course you have! We all have been there and done that or been on the receiving side of the equation. On days like this you probably ended up with a headache, heartburn, acid indigestion, felt anger and when you tried to relax and rest, your mind probably was racing and so full of thoughts that it was impossible. Then being wiped out and totally exhausted you try to climb into bed and get some sleep, but you end up tossing and turning, you mind is going a million miles a minute and sleep is long in coming and when you finally do succumb to sleep it is light and fitful and when you wake you are still exhausted and feel spent, and it is a new day, uggh, so what are you to do...you really can't go back to bed things have to get done and you are the only one who can do them.
This is where learning and utilizing grounding comes in. By using grounding you can flush all of the stress, harmful emotions, restlessness, anger and can calm your mind and achieve that so sought after rest and respite from the world around you. You will be able to finally get to sleep at night getting the rest your body needs and will wake up feeling renewed and refreshed. It isn't as hard as you might think and like I said earlier it is something that our body does in a limited fashion all on its own. So when you learn how to ground properly it will become second nature and almost automatic.
Grounding is a natural phenomenon and follows the laws of nature and physical science. Current (energy) in nature flows from positive to negative following the path of least resistance to reach ground. This is an immutable fact and can be demonstrated in the following example using a electricity, a cord, a lamp with switch and a light bulb. Electricity is the energy or current that we are going to apply to the cord to the lamp, when the switch is thrown, a circuit is completed and the current flows through the wire up the lamp through the bulb across the filament where light is created by the heat of the current flowing through the resistance of the filament as it rushes back down the lamp through the cord seeking ground.
In terms of spiritual grounding or the ground of ourselves, the mind is the switch, the body is the conductor and ground is the ground. But what of the energy where does it come from, it is an external force or pressure, it can be stress, and it definitely comes from everything around us, the world at large. It impacts us and hits us all day everyday and if we don't ground completely and thoroughly it will cause problems. You can think of the outside energy force as stress, grief, turmoil, pain or any other strong emotion that you and your body are subjected to throughout your day. Just a little bit ago I explained to you the law which energy follows that it flows from negative to positive following the path of least resistance always seeking ground. The earth being a big solid mass it can absorb and dissipate immense quantities of energy and is our natural ground. You must bear in mind that energy is subject to all physical laws include that of relativity which simply states that energy can be created, manipulated, changed but it cannot be destroyed. Energy therefore always seeks to ground and yearns to be dissipated otherwise it goes on and on for ever and always.
Therefore, unless we ground it out of our body, we begin to fill up with negative energy and negativity because energy flow from negative to positive always seeking ground if it cannot reach ground because we are not open then it has to build up, just like with our switch it doesn't light until the switch is thrown and the circuit is completed and the energy is able to pass through the bulb and return to ground. This negative energy builds up within our body and is harmful and throws us into imbalance, which can lead to illness, depression and other ailments that could possibly be avoided. It does even further than this, it also reacts with our own inner energy field and an electrical current that travels through our central nervous system. As the energy of the outside interacts with our internal energy field something unique occurs, the energy begins to transcend the laws of nature and physic and starts acting in contrary ways. The reason why this happens is our inner energy field is spiritual energy or life-force, it interacts with our brain and other planes of existence it is also a perfect and closed circuit constantly flowing through our bodies and allowing us to function, with the interaction with the outside energy a conversion takes place between both energies, resulting in spiritual energy. Now in our physical reality opposites attract, negative attracts positive, and that is how the current or energy is transferred, when the energy converts from physical to spiritual energy within our bodies that law no longer applies because in the spiritual realm likes attract and opposites repel, the total flip of our natural law. Now, can you see what is happening our bodies are becoming loaded down with negative energy and as the conversion is taking place, we are drawing more negative into our lives. This is the reason why grounding for us becomes so important. We want to shunt that negative energy or negativity into the ground or the earth and get it out of our body and our mind.
When we are filled with the negative, more negative comes, our inner energy field begins to get corrupted and our body is unable to defend itself properly, we become overwhelmed and burdened and then physical problems begin to manifest themselves through illness, depression, bad moods, and the cycle becomes cyclical because our bodies are a complete circuit and we keep recycling that negative energy through our entire body. This in turn begins to draw even more negativity into our lives which then begins to change our environment, leaking into our interactions and dealings with others. Every thing around us begins to suffer just as our body suffers, you will begin to see everything withering, fleeing or dying just because it is near us. Now I am talking about everything, friends, health, relationships, our luck, wealth, everything. Negativity is something that can and will destroy us from the inside out. Like I explained it becomes cyclical, meaning it goes around and around never changing unless we ground it out. As the negative continues to build we open ourselves up to depression and a myriad of other illnesses both physical and mental that can and will keep us stationary and prevent us from moving forward or backward for that matter, we get stuck in a rut and cannot break free. It becomes so easy for us to fall into despair and surrender to our lot in life and become accepting of all the rotten things that befall us. We get used to it and we wallow in it.
But I am here to tell you that there is a way through this, there is a way to regain the balance in your life, to lift the veil of despair and depression and fight back and that is use and live with grounding. Grounding is a way for us to rid ourselves of this negative and replace it with positive. It allows us to become healthier and gives our mind and body the opportunity to rest and heal and recuperate more efficiently. In the next entry I will start explaining the techniques for ground in a way that will be easy for you to follow. Thus allowing you to be healthier, happier, it will open you up to being receptive of love, wealth, and the blessings you truly deserve.
So, What is Grounding and what can it do for you? It is the shunting of the negative energy that your body is continually accumulating and making it go to ground. What it will do for you? It will make you feel better, give you more energy and strength, allow you to pull more positive energy into your life to replace the negative and when you are constantly operating in the positive, you will be open to a whole new world. Opportunities will come, stress will be reduced, you will be able to sleep more soundly and your body will get the rest it needs and will be able to heal and repair itself more efficiently; your mind will be quieter, clearer, and able to focus better.
So please join me for the next entry as we go through the techniques to accomplish this. As always, I welcome your feedback and your comments, I am here for you and will answer any questions you might have. Write to me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bryan.zepp2 or bryanzepp@gmail.com. If you enjoy what you have read please follow my blog , become a follower please. I am trying to build up my audience and I want you to be a part of my community.
All my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Even if you do not embrace spiritualism or visualization, grounding will still benefit and enrich every aspect of your daily life. Let's begin! First, you might ask yourself, "what does he mean when he says grounding? Does that have something to do with the ground?" Simply, yes it does! Grounding is the act of putting something in or applying it to the ground. Now, according to Websters Pocket Dictionary ground is defined as: "the surface of the earth; soil, sand, and other natural materials at or near the earth's surface; the connecting of electric current to the earth through a conductor." In some ways we are going to deal with both parts of the mentioned definition. In Spiritual and metaphysical terms when we speak of grounding,we are speaking of grounding out the negative energy, stress, pain or other harmful emotions from our bodies and mind and sending it into the ground or earth.
In a limited way our body does this automatically when we rest. However, have you ever had a really bad day where everything went wrong and nothing you tried to do was accomplished ever went right, you were so stressed out that you wanted to cry or scream; your head felt like it was going to explode and the least little thing caused you to snap and lash out at everyone around you? Of course you have! We all have been there and done that or been on the receiving side of the equation. On days like this you probably ended up with a headache, heartburn, acid indigestion, felt anger and when you tried to relax and rest, your mind probably was racing and so full of thoughts that it was impossible. Then being wiped out and totally exhausted you try to climb into bed and get some sleep, but you end up tossing and turning, you mind is going a million miles a minute and sleep is long in coming and when you finally do succumb to sleep it is light and fitful and when you wake you are still exhausted and feel spent, and it is a new day, uggh, so what are you to do...you really can't go back to bed things have to get done and you are the only one who can do them.
This is where learning and utilizing grounding comes in. By using grounding you can flush all of the stress, harmful emotions, restlessness, anger and can calm your mind and achieve that so sought after rest and respite from the world around you. You will be able to finally get to sleep at night getting the rest your body needs and will wake up feeling renewed and refreshed. It isn't as hard as you might think and like I said earlier it is something that our body does in a limited fashion all on its own. So when you learn how to ground properly it will become second nature and almost automatic.
Grounding is a natural phenomenon and follows the laws of nature and physical science. Current (energy) in nature flows from positive to negative following the path of least resistance to reach ground. This is an immutable fact and can be demonstrated in the following example using a electricity, a cord, a lamp with switch and a light bulb. Electricity is the energy or current that we are going to apply to the cord to the lamp, when the switch is thrown, a circuit is completed and the current flows through the wire up the lamp through the bulb across the filament where light is created by the heat of the current flowing through the resistance of the filament as it rushes back down the lamp through the cord seeking ground.
In terms of spiritual grounding or the ground of ourselves, the mind is the switch, the body is the conductor and ground is the ground. But what of the energy where does it come from, it is an external force or pressure, it can be stress, and it definitely comes from everything around us, the world at large. It impacts us and hits us all day everyday and if we don't ground completely and thoroughly it will cause problems. You can think of the outside energy force as stress, grief, turmoil, pain or any other strong emotion that you and your body are subjected to throughout your day. Just a little bit ago I explained to you the law which energy follows that it flows from negative to positive following the path of least resistance always seeking ground. The earth being a big solid mass it can absorb and dissipate immense quantities of energy and is our natural ground. You must bear in mind that energy is subject to all physical laws include that of relativity which simply states that energy can be created, manipulated, changed but it cannot be destroyed. Energy therefore always seeks to ground and yearns to be dissipated otherwise it goes on and on for ever and always.
Therefore, unless we ground it out of our body, we begin to fill up with negative energy and negativity because energy flow from negative to positive always seeking ground if it cannot reach ground because we are not open then it has to build up, just like with our switch it doesn't light until the switch is thrown and the circuit is completed and the energy is able to pass through the bulb and return to ground. This negative energy builds up within our body and is harmful and throws us into imbalance, which can lead to illness, depression and other ailments that could possibly be avoided. It does even further than this, it also reacts with our own inner energy field and an electrical current that travels through our central nervous system. As the energy of the outside interacts with our internal energy field something unique occurs, the energy begins to transcend the laws of nature and physic and starts acting in contrary ways. The reason why this happens is our inner energy field is spiritual energy or life-force, it interacts with our brain and other planes of existence it is also a perfect and closed circuit constantly flowing through our bodies and allowing us to function, with the interaction with the outside energy a conversion takes place between both energies, resulting in spiritual energy. Now in our physical reality opposites attract, negative attracts positive, and that is how the current or energy is transferred, when the energy converts from physical to spiritual energy within our bodies that law no longer applies because in the spiritual realm likes attract and opposites repel, the total flip of our natural law. Now, can you see what is happening our bodies are becoming loaded down with negative energy and as the conversion is taking place, we are drawing more negative into our lives. This is the reason why grounding for us becomes so important. We want to shunt that negative energy or negativity into the ground or the earth and get it out of our body and our mind.
When we are filled with the negative, more negative comes, our inner energy field begins to get corrupted and our body is unable to defend itself properly, we become overwhelmed and burdened and then physical problems begin to manifest themselves through illness, depression, bad moods, and the cycle becomes cyclical because our bodies are a complete circuit and we keep recycling that negative energy through our entire body. This in turn begins to draw even more negativity into our lives which then begins to change our environment, leaking into our interactions and dealings with others. Every thing around us begins to suffer just as our body suffers, you will begin to see everything withering, fleeing or dying just because it is near us. Now I am talking about everything, friends, health, relationships, our luck, wealth, everything. Negativity is something that can and will destroy us from the inside out. Like I explained it becomes cyclical, meaning it goes around and around never changing unless we ground it out. As the negative continues to build we open ourselves up to depression and a myriad of other illnesses both physical and mental that can and will keep us stationary and prevent us from moving forward or backward for that matter, we get stuck in a rut and cannot break free. It becomes so easy for us to fall into despair and surrender to our lot in life and become accepting of all the rotten things that befall us. We get used to it and we wallow in it.
But I am here to tell you that there is a way through this, there is a way to regain the balance in your life, to lift the veil of despair and depression and fight back and that is use and live with grounding. Grounding is a way for us to rid ourselves of this negative and replace it with positive. It allows us to become healthier and gives our mind and body the opportunity to rest and heal and recuperate more efficiently. In the next entry I will start explaining the techniques for ground in a way that will be easy for you to follow. Thus allowing you to be healthier, happier, it will open you up to being receptive of love, wealth, and the blessings you truly deserve.
So, What is Grounding and what can it do for you? It is the shunting of the negative energy that your body is continually accumulating and making it go to ground. What it will do for you? It will make you feel better, give you more energy and strength, allow you to pull more positive energy into your life to replace the negative and when you are constantly operating in the positive, you will be open to a whole new world. Opportunities will come, stress will be reduced, you will be able to sleep more soundly and your body will get the rest it needs and will be able to heal and repair itself more efficiently; your mind will be quieter, clearer, and able to focus better.
So please join me for the next entry as we go through the techniques to accomplish this. As always, I welcome your feedback and your comments, I am here for you and will answer any questions you might have. Write to me on Facebook at www.facebook.com/bryan.zepp2 or bryanzepp@gmail.com. If you enjoy what you have read please follow my blog , become a follower please. I am trying to build up my audience and I want you to be a part of my community.
All my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Friday, May 11, 2012
What is Creative Visualization and how can it help you?
I am about to embark on a series of posts that should be helpful and enlightening and if you have faith and an open mind will help you in achieving your goals, desires. Allowing you to receive blessings and start you on a greater spiritual path toward knowing and understanding God, Nature, the human body, meditation and prayer, as well as different planes or levels of existence. So lend me an ear, open your mind and enjoy the read.
This first entry is a very simplistic overview of Creative Visualization, each entry after this will build upon this first one and by the end you should have a firm understanding of Visualization, meditation, grounding, manifesting and all the parts in between. As always your feedback and comments are appreciated and solicited. Feel free to ask any questions and remember I am here for you. I can be reached directly through the blog page, or via email at bryanzepp@gmail.com or on Facebook www.facebook.com/bryan_zepp2.
Let us get started with the overview. Salt-n-Pepa sang a song called the "I Am the Body Beautiful" which was featured in the movie "To Wong Fu - Thanks for everything Julie Newmar", this song is where we are going to start our series. They sang "whatever the mind can conceive and believe you will achieve" and it is absolutely true.
You may be wondering how this can be manifested in your own daily life, which is where our entry here will attempt to explain and as we go forward teach you how to make it an automatic and a constant experience that will enrich and enhance your life. I need to explain that the human body has 3 distinct aspects that act and operate on different levels of consciousness.
1. The Mind
2. The Body
3. The Soul
Together these components make up the Spiritual Body. Each part of the spiritual body then acts on different levels or planes of existence. These planes of existence are:
1. The Etheric or Astral Plane ( also known as the Divine or Holy Plane)
2. The Physical Plane
3. The Elemental Plane
Let me digress here for a minute to give you a little brief overview of these planes and attempt to explain how they work. First I want to talk about the etheric plane or astral plane, it is also known as the place of dreams the ethereal realm, and in metaphysical terms the place where Heaven and the Angels reside. It is also the plane of existence that our unconscious mind travels when we are deep in sleep or when in a meditative state. The physical plane is what we know and count as reality. This plane is governed by the physical laws of nature and science and of course life. This is also the plane where creative visualization manifests its results. (More on that later in the series) The elemental plane is the plane where the elements reside, it is also where the life energy resides that flows. This energy actually transcends all planes and if found in every living thing on Earth. It is commonly referred to as the "Godhead" or "Spark of Life", and it is where the energy of the Divine instills in us the gift of life and provides the power for our bodies. It is also the enduring force that Albert Einstein describes in his theory of Relativity. The theory states energy cannot be destroyed, it can only be manipulated, converted and changed and is represented by the formula E=MC Squared.
As we get further in the series more information will be discussed in greater detail and explain different aspects of them and how they correlate to the 3 different aspects of the spiritual body. But for right now I want to delve into the tenant of "Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, you will achieve." Is true and how you can accomplish some amazing things in your daily life. There are some factors that need to be reached before you can achieve your hearts desire.
In order to achieving or manifesting a desire or reach a goal, a few things must first take place. Probably first and foremost is that the union of the aspects of the spiritual body must be aligned, balanced and in harmony with each other. This is a critical understanding point in order to achieve and receive the end result or desired outcome of any situation the mind, body and spirit must be in total harmony and balance. When I talk about alignment and harmony I am speaking that these aspects must work together and be perfectly blended or united.
But how do you harmonize or align your mind? This is where we are going to start because I think this may possibly be the hardest aspect to align and focus. Now when I use the words align and focus, what am I actually talking about? The idea is this we need to free our minds of any and all distractions and we must remove all doubt, any emotions need to be focused and grounded (grounding is a technique for eliminating negative energy and focusing of our will and thoughts, more will be discussed in the next entry about grounding). When we are grounded and focused our minds are free from doubt, distraction, positively energized, and focused toward a single purpose. At this point all I am wanting you to understand is that when your mind is focused to a singularity of purpose it can align with the body your desire or goal or dream is imprinted or planted on the astral or ethreal plane, because this is where the mind operates and influences.
The Body which dwells and operates on the physical plane and reality harmonizes with the mind and aligns through strong emotion or desire which strengthens the imprint and starts the manifestation process. Which incorporating the Spirit through mediation and focus provides the rest of the power needed to manifest your desire or goal from the etheric plane to the physical plane thus bring about the desired end goal or achievement. Remember that this is a very simplistic overview of the process.
I do want to take another moment here now that I am at the end of the overview to state that different cultures and beliefs reach unity or harmony in many different ways, spiritualists use grounding and mediation, christian's use singing and prayer, where Buddists and Hindu's utilize chanting and prayer with the lighting of incense to direct their inner focus. However, the end result is the same turning and inner concept, idea, desire, vision or goal and bringing from within to without by manifestation and visualization...all of which is accomplished by the total aligning of the 3 aspects of the spiritual body: The Mind, Body and Soul. Reaching a state of singularity of purpose and total harmony, fueled by desire or strong emotion and infused and powered by divine energy that comes from the spirit. Always remember that whatever your mind can conceive and believe, you will achieve! Further when you set your mind to something you will get it. Even the Bible states that "whatsoever you ask shall be given unto you". However, I must caution you at this point that another adage also holds true "Be careful what you wish for you just might get it."
Be safe and like I told you earlier write to me let me know what you think and if this has helped you in any way. If nothing else maybe my own personal quote will help some of you "Anything is possible in this world, if we only strive for perfection one day at a time." Do me a favor and take sometime to smell the roses, appreciate nature and those around you. And as we get even closer to Mother's Day please take time to acknowledge your mother or another special woman in your life and tell them how much you appreciate them and love them.
All my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
This first entry is a very simplistic overview of Creative Visualization, each entry after this will build upon this first one and by the end you should have a firm understanding of Visualization, meditation, grounding, manifesting and all the parts in between. As always your feedback and comments are appreciated and solicited. Feel free to ask any questions and remember I am here for you. I can be reached directly through the blog page, or via email at bryanzepp@gmail.com or on Facebook www.facebook.com/bryan_zepp2.
Let us get started with the overview. Salt-n-Pepa sang a song called the "I Am the Body Beautiful" which was featured in the movie "To Wong Fu - Thanks for everything Julie Newmar", this song is where we are going to start our series. They sang "whatever the mind can conceive and believe you will achieve" and it is absolutely true.
You may be wondering how this can be manifested in your own daily life, which is where our entry here will attempt to explain and as we go forward teach you how to make it an automatic and a constant experience that will enrich and enhance your life. I need to explain that the human body has 3 distinct aspects that act and operate on different levels of consciousness.
1. The Mind
2. The Body
3. The Soul
Together these components make up the Spiritual Body. Each part of the spiritual body then acts on different levels or planes of existence. These planes of existence are:
1. The Etheric or Astral Plane ( also known as the Divine or Holy Plane)
2. The Physical Plane
3. The Elemental Plane
Let me digress here for a minute to give you a little brief overview of these planes and attempt to explain how they work. First I want to talk about the etheric plane or astral plane, it is also known as the place of dreams the ethereal realm, and in metaphysical terms the place where Heaven and the Angels reside. It is also the plane of existence that our unconscious mind travels when we are deep in sleep or when in a meditative state. The physical plane is what we know and count as reality. This plane is governed by the physical laws of nature and science and of course life. This is also the plane where creative visualization manifests its results. (More on that later in the series) The elemental plane is the plane where the elements reside, it is also where the life energy resides that flows. This energy actually transcends all planes and if found in every living thing on Earth. It is commonly referred to as the "Godhead" or "Spark of Life", and it is where the energy of the Divine instills in us the gift of life and provides the power for our bodies. It is also the enduring force that Albert Einstein describes in his theory of Relativity. The theory states energy cannot be destroyed, it can only be manipulated, converted and changed and is represented by the formula E=MC Squared.
As we get further in the series more information will be discussed in greater detail and explain different aspects of them and how they correlate to the 3 different aspects of the spiritual body. But for right now I want to delve into the tenant of "Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, you will achieve." Is true and how you can accomplish some amazing things in your daily life. There are some factors that need to be reached before you can achieve your hearts desire.
In order to achieving or manifesting a desire or reach a goal, a few things must first take place. Probably first and foremost is that the union of the aspects of the spiritual body must be aligned, balanced and in harmony with each other. This is a critical understanding point in order to achieve and receive the end result or desired outcome of any situation the mind, body and spirit must be in total harmony and balance. When I talk about alignment and harmony I am speaking that these aspects must work together and be perfectly blended or united.
But how do you harmonize or align your mind? This is where we are going to start because I think this may possibly be the hardest aspect to align and focus. Now when I use the words align and focus, what am I actually talking about? The idea is this we need to free our minds of any and all distractions and we must remove all doubt, any emotions need to be focused and grounded (grounding is a technique for eliminating negative energy and focusing of our will and thoughts, more will be discussed in the next entry about grounding). When we are grounded and focused our minds are free from doubt, distraction, positively energized, and focused toward a single purpose. At this point all I am wanting you to understand is that when your mind is focused to a singularity of purpose it can align with the body your desire or goal or dream is imprinted or planted on the astral or ethreal plane, because this is where the mind operates and influences.
The Body which dwells and operates on the physical plane and reality harmonizes with the mind and aligns through strong emotion or desire which strengthens the imprint and starts the manifestation process. Which incorporating the Spirit through mediation and focus provides the rest of the power needed to manifest your desire or goal from the etheric plane to the physical plane thus bring about the desired end goal or achievement. Remember that this is a very simplistic overview of the process.
I do want to take another moment here now that I am at the end of the overview to state that different cultures and beliefs reach unity or harmony in many different ways, spiritualists use grounding and mediation, christian's use singing and prayer, where Buddists and Hindu's utilize chanting and prayer with the lighting of incense to direct their inner focus. However, the end result is the same turning and inner concept, idea, desire, vision or goal and bringing from within to without by manifestation and visualization...all of which is accomplished by the total aligning of the 3 aspects of the spiritual body: The Mind, Body and Soul. Reaching a state of singularity of purpose and total harmony, fueled by desire or strong emotion and infused and powered by divine energy that comes from the spirit. Always remember that whatever your mind can conceive and believe, you will achieve! Further when you set your mind to something you will get it. Even the Bible states that "whatsoever you ask shall be given unto you". However, I must caution you at this point that another adage also holds true "Be careful what you wish for you just might get it."
Be safe and like I told you earlier write to me let me know what you think and if this has helped you in any way. If nothing else maybe my own personal quote will help some of you "Anything is possible in this world, if we only strive for perfection one day at a time." Do me a favor and take sometime to smell the roses, appreciate nature and those around you. And as we get even closer to Mother's Day please take time to acknowledge your mother or another special woman in your life and tell them how much you appreciate them and love them.
All my hopes and dreams are with you,
Uncle B
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Does Music Speak to You?
At times in your life does an artist or album reach out and grab you? Does the music speak to you in away that most of the songs on the album seem directed toward you or the situation that you are going through? Maybe I am just peculiar, but it seems that at every period of my life where there has been great change that there has been an artist and a particular album that they have released that has reached out and spoken directly to me. Every song on the album touches me and describes what I am feeling and going through at the time.
I have been asked over and over again how do I maintain such a positive attitude when I am going through so much, and I honestly think that the music that touches me helps me through these crisis times. These songs describe the whole situation that I am going through and the people around me. Then it is up to me, to take and process the songs and through inner reflection evaluate my situation and decide what I need to do to make a change. I am thankful for these artists that influence my life and give me their words of advice that speaks to me through their songs.
Having been a music writer in a previous incarnation of my life, I understand that most of these artists are writing from personal experiences and that is why the music is infused with so much energy and intensity. But what amazes me is that these artists have gone through or are going through something in their life that is so similar to what I am going through at the time that their music reaches out to me and grabs me.
I would like to give you some examples: I used to live in Atlanta, and I was with a person there for a long long time. We had 2 houses together, several companies, two dogs, two cars, a cat and a lot of mutual friends. Now, not trying to sound like I am pointing the finger at anyone but when the relationship ended it got into a very dirty state, both of us were trying to outdo the other and I believe we were trying to see how badly we could hurt one another. Now, that is not a healthy place to be, and a lot of damage was done and probably can never be healed properly. This is a very sad event to have happened because the other person was very caring and loving and didn't deserve any of this. However, like I said I am not placing blame here we were both at fault. However, while I was going through this situation, I was constantly seeking refuge in Hilary Duff's Dignity Album. Every single song on that album described the way I was feeling starting with the very first song on the album entitled "Stranger". The song actually talks about how she was living with a stranger and that when they were alone that she couldn't recognize him anymore and that there was no love left in his eyes. From that album I was able to process and address through the lyrics and singing of these songs the anger, hurt, disappointment and all the other emotions that go with ending of love and a relationship.
Another example would be Katy Perry's Teenage Dream album. I am actually listening to it now as I write this entry. This album has so many songs that are speaking to me and helping me deal with my current situation. What a lot of you do not know is that I have been diagnosed with a whole host of medical problems and that is on top of having my life fall out from under me when I was in Atlanta last year. I got sick again in October of 2011, had kidney stones, found out that I had end stage reneal failure and then on top of that I was evicted from my apartment and I lost everything I owned, I had two dogs that were taken from me and put to sleep, and my car was stolen, I ended up on the street and heavy into drugs till February. Now I have come home, I am rebuilding my life and getting my feet back under me. This album has given me the strength to move forward, to accept the fact that once again I am starting over. Songs like Katy Perry's
"Who am I living for?" give me the strength to know that I am marching down the right path that I was meant too. I know that if I wouldn't have taken the steps and made the decisions that I have had made during the winter in Atlanta I would be dead right now. But I am here and I am okay and I am writing to you. Hoping to share just a few of the little things that I have picked up as I have made this long journey.
There are so many songs that touch me, there are some that help me through little dilemmas, like "Circle the Drain" which talks about drug abuse and use. How people make excuses and how people who care about us get hurt trying to save us from them. I am again thankful that these songs are out there and help me to deal with my issues. I have passed on the lyrics of "Circle the Drain" to my ex because he is still struggling with his addiction, these words are how I feel. I don't want to watch him circle the drain. "I want to be his lover, but I don't have the power to rewrite his addiction" only he can change and defeat the monkey that is on his back.
But how do these songs help me you might wonder? I will tell you that something inside of me identifies with a particular song, and the artist and before I know it I am researching the lyrics to the song and memorizing them. Once I read the words and I sit back I begin to see the correlation between what the artist is sending out and what has been going on in my life. What I can tell you is that I amazed as the lyrics and the beat perfectly resonate within me. I begin looking back at myself, my decisions and then it all seems to click inside of me. I am not sure if everyone is like me. But music, prayer, meditation, and writing are my key to keeping and maintaining a positive outlook and motivation in my life. With having 6 terminal illnesses and doctors constantly telling me that the future doesn't seem to bright and that there might not be a lot of time left for me to wrap up my business, it would be rather easy for me to fall into a state of depression and fill my days with crying and self-pity. But you see that would not get me anywhere and I would waste what time I have left and I am not ready for that. Maybe there will come a time for me to wallow in self-pity and despair but I don't believe it will be anytime soon.
What I would like to leave you with is the song that I am listening to now. It is Katy Perry's Firework...this is what I hope and pray each and everyone of you realize. This is a song of hope and rebirth, it talks about inner strength, it talks about having faith and knowing that you can start over, you are not a failure and that you have inner worth and outer worth as well. I hope this song touches you as much as it touched me.
Firework by Katy Perry
"Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind
Wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards
One blow from caving in?
Do you ever feel already buried deep
Six feet under screams
But no one seems to hear a thing?
Do you know that there's still a chance for you
'Cause there's a spark in you
You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the fourth of July
'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em falling down down down
You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow
Maybe a reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road
Like a lightning bolt, your heart will glow
And when it's time, you'll know
You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the fourth of July
'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em all in awe-awe-awe
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
And it's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through
'Cause baby your a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go " oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the Sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em in awe awe awe "
Please listen to the song and read over the lyrics and let me know what you think. I value your opinion and want to hear your feedback. Tell me your story and if this song fits you. If you don't have the song or cannot find it get at me and I will send it to you or post it where you can listen to it.
All my hopes,
Uncle B
I have been asked over and over again how do I maintain such a positive attitude when I am going through so much, and I honestly think that the music that touches me helps me through these crisis times. These songs describe the whole situation that I am going through and the people around me. Then it is up to me, to take and process the songs and through inner reflection evaluate my situation and decide what I need to do to make a change. I am thankful for these artists that influence my life and give me their words of advice that speaks to me through their songs.
Having been a music writer in a previous incarnation of my life, I understand that most of these artists are writing from personal experiences and that is why the music is infused with so much energy and intensity. But what amazes me is that these artists have gone through or are going through something in their life that is so similar to what I am going through at the time that their music reaches out to me and grabs me.
I would like to give you some examples: I used to live in Atlanta, and I was with a person there for a long long time. We had 2 houses together, several companies, two dogs, two cars, a cat and a lot of mutual friends. Now, not trying to sound like I am pointing the finger at anyone but when the relationship ended it got into a very dirty state, both of us were trying to outdo the other and I believe we were trying to see how badly we could hurt one another. Now, that is not a healthy place to be, and a lot of damage was done and probably can never be healed properly. This is a very sad event to have happened because the other person was very caring and loving and didn't deserve any of this. However, like I said I am not placing blame here we were both at fault. However, while I was going through this situation, I was constantly seeking refuge in Hilary Duff's Dignity Album. Every single song on that album described the way I was feeling starting with the very first song on the album entitled "Stranger". The song actually talks about how she was living with a stranger and that when they were alone that she couldn't recognize him anymore and that there was no love left in his eyes. From that album I was able to process and address through the lyrics and singing of these songs the anger, hurt, disappointment and all the other emotions that go with ending of love and a relationship.
Another example would be Katy Perry's Teenage Dream album. I am actually listening to it now as I write this entry. This album has so many songs that are speaking to me and helping me deal with my current situation. What a lot of you do not know is that I have been diagnosed with a whole host of medical problems and that is on top of having my life fall out from under me when I was in Atlanta last year. I got sick again in October of 2011, had kidney stones, found out that I had end stage reneal failure and then on top of that I was evicted from my apartment and I lost everything I owned, I had two dogs that were taken from me and put to sleep, and my car was stolen, I ended up on the street and heavy into drugs till February. Now I have come home, I am rebuilding my life and getting my feet back under me. This album has given me the strength to move forward, to accept the fact that once again I am starting over. Songs like Katy Perry's
"Who am I living for?" give me the strength to know that I am marching down the right path that I was meant too. I know that if I wouldn't have taken the steps and made the decisions that I have had made during the winter in Atlanta I would be dead right now. But I am here and I am okay and I am writing to you. Hoping to share just a few of the little things that I have picked up as I have made this long journey.
There are so many songs that touch me, there are some that help me through little dilemmas, like "Circle the Drain" which talks about drug abuse and use. How people make excuses and how people who care about us get hurt trying to save us from them. I am again thankful that these songs are out there and help me to deal with my issues. I have passed on the lyrics of "Circle the Drain" to my ex because he is still struggling with his addiction, these words are how I feel. I don't want to watch him circle the drain. "I want to be his lover, but I don't have the power to rewrite his addiction" only he can change and defeat the monkey that is on his back.
But how do these songs help me you might wonder? I will tell you that something inside of me identifies with a particular song, and the artist and before I know it I am researching the lyrics to the song and memorizing them. Once I read the words and I sit back I begin to see the correlation between what the artist is sending out and what has been going on in my life. What I can tell you is that I amazed as the lyrics and the beat perfectly resonate within me. I begin looking back at myself, my decisions and then it all seems to click inside of me. I am not sure if everyone is like me. But music, prayer, meditation, and writing are my key to keeping and maintaining a positive outlook and motivation in my life. With having 6 terminal illnesses and doctors constantly telling me that the future doesn't seem to bright and that there might not be a lot of time left for me to wrap up my business, it would be rather easy for me to fall into a state of depression and fill my days with crying and self-pity. But you see that would not get me anywhere and I would waste what time I have left and I am not ready for that. Maybe there will come a time for me to wallow in self-pity and despair but I don't believe it will be anytime soon.
What I would like to leave you with is the song that I am listening to now. It is Katy Perry's Firework...this is what I hope and pray each and everyone of you realize. This is a song of hope and rebirth, it talks about inner strength, it talks about having faith and knowing that you can start over, you are not a failure and that you have inner worth and outer worth as well. I hope this song touches you as much as it touched me.
Firework by Katy Perry
"Do you ever feel like a plastic bag
Drifting through the wind
Wanting to start again?
Do you ever feel so paper thin
Like a house of cards
One blow from caving in?
Do you ever feel already buried deep
Six feet under screams
But no one seems to hear a thing?
Do you know that there's still a chance for you
'Cause there's a spark in you
You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the fourth of July
'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em falling down down down
You don't have to feel like a waste of space
You're original, cannot be replaced
If you only knew what the future holds
After a hurricane comes a rainbow
Maybe a reason why all the doors are closed
So you could open one that leads you to the perfect road
Like a lightning bolt, your heart will glow
And when it's time, you'll know
You just gotta ignite the light
And let it shine
Just own the night
Like the fourth of July
'Cause baby you're a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em all in awe-awe-awe
Boom, boom, boom
Even brighter than the moon, moon, moon
And it's always been inside of you, you, you
And now it's time to let it through
'Cause baby your a firework
Come on show 'em what your worth
Make 'em go " oh, oh, oh"
As you shoot across the Sky-y-y
Baby you're a firework
Come on let your colors burst
Make 'em go "oh, oh, oh"
You're gonna leave 'em in awe awe awe "
Please listen to the song and read over the lyrics and let me know what you think. I value your opinion and want to hear your feedback. Tell me your story and if this song fits you. If you don't have the song or cannot find it get at me and I will send it to you or post it where you can listen to it.
All my hopes,
Uncle B
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